Named as one of the ten paradises of the world by National Geographic Traveler, Kerala sits nestled between the Western Ghats to the east and the Arabian Sea to the west on India’s Malabar Coast. Its natural beauty, extensive greenery, backwaters, and forests make this location one of the most alluring destinations in the world any traveler must see in life.

1. Backwaters Region – Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam

A favorite among visitors, this wetland region consists of an extensive network of interlocking rivers and canals lined with palm and coconut trees. It provides the opportunity to enjoy leisurely boat rides and boathouse cruises upon clear water amid a serene environment, illustrating the best part of nature Kerala offers.

2. Kerala – The Land Of Ayurveda

Kerala has a quite long legacy of Ayurveda. Its history in Kerala is ancient and has been practiced here for ages. This nature-blessed location has wonderful, healing Ayurveda medicines and ingredients that remained hidden for generations, but they are now sought after in the modern world.  Balsam for the body and soul, visitors can relish the rejuvenation techniques Kerala has brought to the world.

3. Cuisine

Kerala’s geography and history have greatly influenced its cuisine, offering a variety of both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes and seafood. Simple ingredients, such as chilies, curry leaves, mustard seeds, tamarind, and asafoetida are all frequently used in preparing local dishes, with coconut and rice as the main staples. Foodies will definitely want to sample traditional meals like Dosa Ghee Roast with Kerala-style sambar, which is made from fermented lentils and cooked in ghee until turning crispy—delicious! As you know, dosa is among the world’s top 50 delectable dishes.

Don’t forget to also try Kerala Prawn Curry, which is sprinkled with chili, salt, and pepper and then dipped in coconut milk, jaggery and finally finished with curry leaves.

 The flavorful aromas, savory spices of classic dishes are enough to win your heart in this Indian paradise.

4. Alappuzha (Alleppey) Beach

Cool air from the sea welcomes visitors to the beaches of Kerala. Alappuzha Beach is the idyllic destination to escape the hassles of everyday life. The purity of water and clean air enhance a splendid day basking in the sunshine. What could be more blissful than salt in the air and sand in your feet?

This old lighthouse was once used by Portuguese, Dutch, and Chinese traders when it was one of the busiest ports and trade centers of Kerala.

5. Pilgrimage

Sabarimala Temple in Pathanamthitta District is the focal point for the annual Hindu pilgrimages in the world. The temple is only open for worship during Mandalapooja, from 15 November to 26 December, for Makaravilakku (Makar Sankrati) on 14 January, for  Maha Vishuva Sankrati on 14 April and for the first five days of of each Malayalam month.

The Guruvayoor Sree Krishna Temple, Thrissur, Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Temple, Cochin, Shree Padnamabha Temple, Trivandrum, and Sree Vadakkumnathan Temple are the Kerala’s main attractions that organize memorable festivals every year. During these events, the idol of the god in the temple is taken on a procession atop an elaborately decorated elephant decked in jewelry and led through the countryside.

6. Historical Monuments

Kerala has many old cemeteries, churches, and forts that reflect the impact of the Portuguese who ruled over Kerala for nearly one and half centuries during the Colonial period. Their influence is seen not only in the architecture, but it also appears in the local language of Malyalam and in Chavittunadakam art, which is the result of the blending of Portuguese and Kerala cultures and has similarities to the classical art of Kathakali.

They say Kerala is “God’s own country,” and it truly represents this sentiment. To feel its soul, you have to experience its wonders at least once in life.

About the author: Pooja Sharma is a fashion and lifestyle writer at Baggout.com, an online recommendation platform aimed at young women between 16-30, offering the best products chosen by top stylists from top retailers. From ethnic wear to dresses to handbags.