Kerala travel guide provides a glance at Kerala and information on Kerala travel and tourism. To make sure that all your surprises in Kerala are good ones, we’ve put together a few travel tips that will help prepare you for your stay in Kerala.
Kerala, ‘God’s own country’, is a land of many contrasts and amazing things. Kerala lies on the southwestern tip of the Indian mainland and enjoys diverse geographical features. It is enclosed by the azure shore of the Arabian sea. The pleasant and amiable climate of Kerala grabs the attention of tourists each year.
Kerala is amazingly blessed with a rich repertoire of natural bounty –featuring Virgin beaches, tranquil backwaters, picturesque mountain peaks, unforgettable wildlife viewing, stunning Kerala Ayurveda experience, prosperous flora and fauna, ancient temples, vibrant culture, panoramic hill stations, mouthwatering cuisines and all are truly unique and have their own charm to fascinated visitors and tourists from all the nook and corner of the world.
Kerala, why a role model to the world?
- Kerala has the most advanced society as the standard of living is high
- Kerala has the highest Physical Quality of Life Index (PQLI) and Human Development Index.
- Kerala is a a Highly literate Indian state
- Kerala has highest life expectancy, least population growth, lowest infant mortality
- Kerala has a class health care system
- Kerala is Highly cleanest state in India
Keralites are renowned for their hospitality. They greet tourists with acceptance and say Namaskaram or swagatham means ‘welcome ‘ in Malayalam.
Visa Requirement/Entry Formalities – Carry a valid visa to enter India/Kerala. For more info, you may contact the Indian High Commission/Embassy
Money – There are no restrictions on the amount of foreign currency that visitors can bring.
Banks – Conversion into Indian currency should be done only through authorized moneychangers and banks. Banks are open for transactions from 10:00 – 14:00 hrs on weekdays and from 10:00 – 12:00 hrs on Saturdays.
Credit Cards – are accepted in Main hotels, restaurants and shopping centers
Safety – Kerala is a friendly and safest state in India.
Time
(Hours fast (+), slow (-) on IST)
USA: -10.30, Germany: – 4.30, Canada: – 10.30, France: – 4.30, Australia: + 4.30, Spain: -4.30, UAE: – 1.30, uk:-5:30
The best time to visit Kerala
High season: December – May
Monsoon Rejuvenation programmes: June – November
Travel Kit – Cotton outfits, hats, sunglasses, SPF 30+ sunscreen lotion, etc. Drink plenty of fluids.
Language – Though Malayalam is the mother tongue of Kerala, people here are well-versed with English.
Food – Traditional Kerala cuisine and seafood are a must to eat. Rice is the staple food. All standard restaurants offer a variety of cuisines including Continental, Chinese, Indian, etc…..
Water – It is generally safe to drink water straight from the tap. Bottled mineral water, however, is easily available in shops and supermarkets.
Etiquette – Remove shoes when entering homes and temples. Some temples do not permit entry to non-Hindus. Strict dress codes are followed in most of the temples.
Smoking – Smoking is banned in public places
Women Travelers – Women are being greatly respected in Kerala
Shopping – what to buy in Kerala – Spices, Antiques, Handicraft products made from coconut shells, wood, clay, and cane, Handloom products like Kasavu sari (sari with golden brocade), Mural Paintings, Aranmula Kannadi (metal mirror) and many more