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.