You are currently viewing Kerala Tourism – Discover the Magical Land of Backwaters, Beaches & Ayurveda in 2025

Kerala Tourism – Discover the Magical Land of Backwaters, Beaches & Ayurveda in 2025

When I first set foot in Kerala, I understood why it’s called God’s Own Country. Unlike anywhere else in India, Kerala is a mix of calm lagoons, tea-covered mountains, Ayurvedic healing, cultural festivals, and beaches that stretch for miles.

For an international traveler, Kerala isn’t just a holiday — it’s a complete experience of India’s heritage and nature. Whether you’re seeking a luxury honeymoon escape, a family retreat, or a wellness vacation, Kerala offers it all.

👉 In this blog, you’ll find everything you need: destinations, itineraries, food, stays, and practical tips to make your Kerala trip smooth and unforgettable.


🛶 Kerala Backwaters – A Journey on the Houseboats

http://www.keralatourism.gov.in/

If you close your eyes and picture Kerala, chances are you’ll see a houseboat floating through coconut-lined lagoons.

  • Alleppey (Alappuzha): Known as the “Venice of the East.” Houseboat cruises here are world-famous. Imagine sipping fresh coconut water as your chef serves Kerala fish curry while birds fly overhead.

  • Kumarakom: A calmer, boutique destination where luxury resorts like Coconut Lagoon sit by Vembanad Lake.

  • Kollam: Offbeat backwater charm with fewer crowds.

👉 Why International Travelers Love It: You get to sleep under the stars, wake up to birdsong, and watch villagers paddle past in canoes — an experience unlike anywhere in the world.


The Hill Stations – Misty Mountains & Tea Plantations

After the tropical coast, Kerala’s hill stations offer refreshing coolness.

  • Munnar: A paradise of rolling tea gardens, waterfalls, and colonial bungalows. Visit Tata Tea Museum to understand tea history.

  • Thekkady: Home to Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can enjoy boat safaris, spice plantation tours, and bamboo rafting.

  • Wayanad: A nature-lover’s dream with caves, waterfalls, and luxury eco-resorts.

👉 Why International Travelers Love It: Perfect for couples and families who want both adventure and calm. Treks, safaris, and even treehouse stays make it unique.


Kerala Beaches – Sunsets & Ayurveda

Kerala’s coastline stretches for 550 km, offering golden sands, surf-friendly waves, and yoga retreats.

  • Kovalam: Luxury resorts like Leela Kovalam blend beaches with Ayurveda spas.

  • Varkala: Famous for its cliffside cafés and backpacker vibe.

  • Marari Beach: Ideal for honeymooners seeking privacy.

  • Bekal: Home to Bekal Fort, overlooking the sea — a great mix of history and beach.

👉 Why International Travelers Love It: Less crowded than Goa, Kerala’s beaches are more about healing, relaxation, and Instagram-worthy sunsets.


🌿 Ayurveda & Wellness – Healing in God’s Own Country

Kerala is the birthplace of Ayurveda, India’s 5000-year-old healing science.

  • Ayurveda Spas & Retreats: Somatheeram Ayurvedic Health Resort, Carnoustie Ayurveda & Wellness, Niraamaya Retreats.

  • Popular Treatments: Abhyanga (oil massage), Shirodhara (oil pouring on forehead), Panchakarma (detox therapy).

  • Yoga & Meditation: Offered at almost every beach resort.

👉 Why International Travelers Love It: Wellness travel is trending worldwide. In Kerala, Ayurveda isn’t commercial — it’s authentic, immersive, and soul-soothing.


🍲 Kerala Food – A Culinary Journey

Kerala is often called the Land of Spices, and the cuisine proves why.

  • Vegetarian Feast: Kerala Sadya — 24+ dishes served on a banana leaf.

  • Seafood Specialties: Karimeen (pearl spot fish), prawn curry, crab roast.

  • Snacks: Banana chips, pazham pori (banana fritters).

  • Beverages: Fresh toddy (coconut palm wine).

For international travelers: Most resorts offer vegan, vegetarian, Jain, halal, and continental menus.


Culture & Festivals of Kerala

Kerala isn’t just about scenery — it’s also a treasure of traditions.

  • Kathakali: Colorful dance-drama.

  • Theyyam: Ritualistic performance art.

  • Kalaripayattu: World’s oldest martial art.

  • Festivals:

    • Onam: The biggest harvest festival with snake boat races.

    • Thrissur Pooram: Elephants, fireworks, temple music.

👉 Why International Travelers Love It: These experiences are raw, authentic, and unforgettable glimpses into Indian culture.


🏨 Luxury Resorts & Stays

Kerala spoils you with choices:

  • Backwaters: Kumarakom Lake Resort, Coconut Lagoon.

  • Hills: Windermere Estate (Munnar), Vythiri Resort (Wayanad).

  • Beaches: Leela Kovalam, Niraamaya Retreats, Marari Beach Resort.

  • Ayurveda Retreats: Somatheeram, Carnoustie.

👉 Many international travelers prefer a 3-style stay combo — 2 nights in the hills + 1 night on a houseboat + 2 nights on the beach.


🧳 Practical Travel Tips for International Travelers

  • Best Time to Visit: November–February (pleasant winter). Monsoon (June–Sept) is best for Ayurveda.

  • Airports: Kochi International Airport (COK), Trivandrum, Calicut.

  • SIM Cards: Jio/Airtel/Vi available at airports (passport required).

  • Travel Insurance: Highly recommended.

  • Clothing: Light cottons for the coast, warm clothes for the hills.

  • Transport: Private cars with English-speaking drivers are safest.

  • Food Preferences: Jain, vegetarian, and gluten-free diets can be arranged.

  • Safety: Kerala is one of the safest states in India for tourists, including solo female travelers.


📅 Suggested Kerala Itinerary for International Travelers (7N/8D)

  • Day 1–2: Kochi (Chinese fishing nets, Fort Kochi, Kathakali).

  • Day 3–4: Munnar (tea gardens, waterfalls, trekking).

  • Day 5: Thekkady (spice plantation, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary).

  • Day 6: Alleppey/Kumarakom (houseboat stay).

  • Day 7–8: Kovalam/Varkala (beach + Ayurveda retreat).

👉 Customizable itineraries available with Mauzee Holiday for honeymooners, families, and solo travelers.


🌎 Why Kerala is Perfect for International Travelers

  • Direct international flights from Dubai, Singapore, Sri Lanka, and Europe.

  • Safe, clean, and English-friendly.

  • Mix of luxury, wellness, and culture.

  • Great for Instagram-worthy photography.

  • Affordable compared to many other tropical destinations.

✨ Kerala is not just a holiday. It’s a journey into nature, tradition, and inner peace.


📌 Call-to-Action

Ready to explore God’s Own Country?
Plan your Kerala journey with Mauzee Holiday – trusted experts in customized international-standard Kerala packages.