Kerala

History of Kerala

Kerala, located in the southwestern part of India, has a rich history and cultural heritage that dates back to ancient times. Here is a brief overview of the history of Kerala:

Prehistoric era:

Kerala has evidence of human habitation dating back to the Paleolithic era, with cave paintings and rock engravings found in several parts of the state.

Early kingdoms:

Kerala was ruled by several small kingdoms in the early centuries of the Common Era, including the Chera, Chola, and Pandya dynasties. The Chera dynasty, in particular, was known for its maritime trade and cultural achievements.

Colonial era:

Kerala became a hub of trade and commerce with the arrival of the Portuguese, Dutch, and British in the 16th century. The Portuguese established several settlements in Kerala, including Fort Kochi, and introduced Christianity to the region. The Dutch and the British followed, with the latter establishing their headquarters in Thiruvananthapuram.

Independence era:

Kerala became a part of independent India in 1947, after the country gained independence from British rule. The state was initially divided into three regions - Malabar, Travancore, and Cochin - which were merged to form the present-day state of Kerala in 1956.

Political history:

Kerala has a rich political history, with several social and political movements shaping the state's culture and identity. The state has a tradition of democratic governance, with several Communist and Congress-led governments being elected over the years.

Cultural heritage:

Kerala has a rich cultural heritage, with a unique blend of indigenous and foreign influences. The state is known for its literature, art, music, dance, and cuisine, which reflect the diversity of its people and their history.

Kerala's history is a testament to the resilience, creativity, and adaptability of its people, who have overcome several challenges and obstacles to build a vibrant and prosperous state

Best Time To Visit Kerala:

The best time to visit Kerala is during the winter months of December to February, when the weather is pleasant and dry. This is also the peak tourist season in Kerala, so expect larger crowds and higher prices for accommodations.

During this time, the temperatures in Kerala range from around 20-30 degrees Celsius (68-86 degrees Fahrenheit) and there is less humidity and rainfall than during other times of the year. This makes it a great time to explore the beaches, backwaters, and wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala.

Another good time to visit Kerala is during the monsoon season from June to September, when the state receives heavy rainfall. This can be a great time to experience the lush greenery and enjoy the cool, rainy weather. However, it is important to note that some outdoor activities may be limited during this time due to the rain and flooding.

The summer months of March to May can be quite hot and humid in Kerala, with temperatures reaching up to 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit). This may not be the best time to visit if you are sensitive to heat and humidity.

Best time to visit Kerala depends on your interests and preferences. If you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy the natural beauty of Kerala in a more relaxed setting, the monsoon season or the shoulder seasons of October to November and March to May can be good options. But if you want to experience the vibrant culture and festivals of Kerala, or enjoy the beaches and backwaters in the best weather, then the winter months of December to February are the ideal time to plan your visit.

Take A Trip To Kerala:

Taking a trip to Kerala can be an incredible experience, with the state's natural beauty, cultural richness, and diverse culinary traditions. Here's a general itinerary to consider when planning a trip to Kerala:

Day 1-2: Arrive in Kochi (Cochin):

The historic port city on the west coast of Kerala. Spend some time exploring the old Fort Kochi area, with its colonial-era buildings, churches, and Chinese fishing nets. Visit the Mattancherry Palace and the Jewish Synagogue in the nearby Jew Town, and take a sunset cruise on the backwaters.

Day 3-4: Head to Munnar:

A hill station in the Western Ghats known for its tea plantations, rolling hills, and waterfalls. Go for a hike or take a jeep safari to explore the tea estates and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Day 5-6: Visit Thekkady:

Home to the Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary. Take a boat ride on the Periyar Lake to see elephants, tigers, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. You can also visit a spice plantation to learn about the various spices grown in Kerala and their uses in cooking.

Day 7-8: Travel to Alleppey:

Known as the "Venice of the East" for its intricate network of backwaters, canals, and lagoons. Stay in a traditional houseboat or a resort on the backwaters, and relax as you glide along the serene waterways.

Day 9-10: Head to Kovalam:

A popular beach destination in Kerala. Spend some time relaxing on the sandy beaches, swimming in the warm waters of the Arabian Sea, and enjoying water sports such as surfing, kayaking, and parasailing.

Day 11-12: Return to Kochi:

Explore more of the city's vibrant culture and cuisine. Visit the St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, and the Indo-Portuguese Museum. Sample some of the local seafood specialties such as karimeen pollichathu (pearl spot fish marinated in spices and grilled in banana leaf) and appam with stew.

Day 13: Depart from Kochi and say goodbye to Kerala:

Of course, this itinerary is just a suggestion and can be customized based on your interests and preferences. Kerala has much more to offer, from the stunning beaches of Varkala and Cherai to the wildlife sanctuaries of Wayanad and Silent Valley. No matter what you choose to do, a trip to Kerala is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

Places To Visit In Kerala:

Kochi (Cochin):

This historic port city is a melting pot of cultures and has a rich history of trade with the Arab, Chinese, and European nations. Some of the top attractions in Kochi include the Fort Kochi area, Chinese fishing nets, Mattancherry Palace, Jewish Synagogue, and St. Francis Church.

Munnar:

This hill station in the Western Ghats is known for its tea plantations, rolling hills, and waterfalls. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the cool climate and stunning natural beauty.

Thekkady:

This is home to the Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can take a boat ride on the Periyar Lake to see elephants, tigers, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. You can also visit a spice plantation to learn about the various spices grown in Kerala and their uses in cooking.

Alleppey:

This is known as the "Venice of the East" for its intricate network of backwaters, canals, and lagoons. You can stay in a traditional houseboat or a resort on the backwaters, and relax as you glide along the serene waterways.

Kovalam:

This is a popular beach destination in Kerala, with several beaches and resorts to choose from. You can relax on the sandy beaches, swim in the warm waters of the Arabian Sea, and enjoy water sports such as surfing, kayaking, and parasailing.

Wayanad:

This is a hill district in the northern part of Kerala, known for its scenic beauty and wildlife. You can visit the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Chembra Peak, and Edakkal Caves.

Varkala:

This is another popular beach destination in Kerala, known for its scenic cliffs and long stretches of sandy beaches. You can visit the Varkala Beach, Janardana Swami Temple, and the Sivagiri Mutt.

Thrissur:

This is known as the cultural capital of Kerala, with several temples, museums, and cultural institutions. You can visit the Vadakkumnathan Temple, Kerala Kalamandalam, and the Athirapally Waterfalls.

These are just a few of the top places to visit in Kerala. The state has much more to offer, and you can customize your itinerary based on your interests and preferences.

Adventure Activities To Do Kerala:

Trekking:

Kerala has several scenic trekking trails in the Western Ghats, including the trails to the top of Chembra Peak in Wayanad, Meesapulimala in Munnar, and Agasthyakoodam in Thiruvananthapuram.

Water sports:

Kerala's beaches and backwaters offer a variety of water sports activities, including kayaking, canoeing, parasailing, windsurfing, and water skiing. Some of the popular water sports destinations in Kerala are Varkala Beach, Kovalam Beach, and Alleppey Backwaters.

Bamboo rafting:

This is a unique adventure activity offered in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Thekkady. You can go on a bamboo rafting tour on the Periyar Lake, where you can spot wildlife and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding hills.

Rock climbing:

You can go rock climbing in places like Vagamon and Munnar in Kerala. These places have several natural rock formations that are suitable for rock climbing, with varying degrees of difficulty.

Zip-lining:

Kerala has several zip-lining facilities, including the Flying Fox Adventure Zone in Munnar, which offers a thrilling zip-line tour over the tea plantations.

Paragliding:

You can go paragliding in Vagamon, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys.

Cycling:

Kerala has several scenic cycling routes, including the trails in the tea estates of Munnar and the backroads of Fort Kochi.

These are just a few of the top adventure activities to do in Kerala. The state has much more to offer, and you can customize your itinerary based on your interests and preferences.