Origin

Surrounded by the Arabian Sea on the west, the Western Ghats on the east and with a network of forty-four rivers, Kerala lies at the southern tip of the Indian sub continent. Kerala has always been one of the most popular and preferred tourism destinations in the world.There have been references to the land of ancient Sanskrit and classical works from time immemorial.

The ancient history of Kerala is shrouded in the mists of tradition.According to a popular legend, the land crust that forms the state was raised from the depths of the ocean by Parasurama, the Brahmin avatar (incarnation) of Lord Vishnu and hence the sobriquet - "God's own Country". Undoubtedly Kerala is increasingly gaining attraction from around the globe for its culturally rich heritage.

Today, Kerala is one of the best-known tourist destinations in the world tourism map. National Geographic Traveller has proclaimed Kerala as one of the ten paradises of the world.Besides, the Western Ghats has figured in the world list as one of the 34 biodiversity hot spots in the world.

365-day tourist destination

From mind-blowing landscapes to infinite intriguing customs, rich and unique cultural life to the cent per cent literacy level, holidaying in Kerala is an experience of a lifetime. One gets a feel of the tranquil stretches of emerald backwaters of Kerala, lush hill stations, exotic wildlife, revitalizing Ayurveda health resorts,serene and healing yoga centres, enchanting art forms, magical festivals, historic and cultural monuments, delicious cuisine and singularly beautiful people during one’s tour to this blessed state. It is no wonder that this little coastal state on the southwestern tip of the Indian peninsula has won national and international acclaim for its diversity and uniqueness of culture.

History

Kerala has served as a melting pot for the cultures from the orient and the occident. A flourishing market of spices, the state is said to have been visited by the ships from all continents to collect the valuables and riches that made them. Historical records state that ancient Roman statesmen used to chide their citizens for the extravaganza they showed in procuring luxuries from Kerala. Nowhere else in the world, not even in the most urban centers of the developed world would you find people

with such a diverse cultural and religious background living together in a friendly and peaceful manner.

When the Jews were driven out of central Asia during the BCs, they came to Kerala. When St.Thomas, the Apostle came here, it seems he was amazed at the religious liberty given by the state to all its people. He is believed to have established a church in Kerala in the year 52 AD when even Constantinople did not have a church. When Prophet Muhammad founded Islam, Keralites embraced it and the kings here were said to have invited Arabic architects to raise mosques out of the sand.

In fact, this tolerance of cultural values has persisted through the ages in this beautiful state and has contributed to its rich heritage.

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