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Kerala, Indian
State
Rightly described by prestigious travel magazines
and travel bodies around the world as a "must-see" destination,
Kerala is the jewel in the crown of Indian tourism. Endearingly
called as "God`s own country" this enchanting strip of
coastal paradise brings to life travel experiences that are nothing
short of spiritualism. Long, pristine beaches are among the major
attractions. Largely deserted, these beautiful sand-strips are ideal
for surfers and sun-worshippers. Palm-fringed and inviting, these
breath-taking beaches offer a different flavour of sun, sand and
sea. Exploring
life in the banks of these waterways while traveling in well-equipped
houseboats is an experience of a lifetime. Lying on the Arabian
sea, it is bordered by karnataka and Tamil Nadu and
occupies a area of 15005 sq. mi.
The calm waters, green landscapes, are pure ecstasy.
Kerala`s ancient culture and traditions are a treat to watch. Religious
festivities of temples with caparishioned elephants and long processions
of temple art forms offer a peep into the ancient times. The performing
arts of Kerala like Kath Kali, Mohiniattam and Theyyam have a great
following in the West. Perhaps the best and unique charm that Kerala
offers is Ayurveda the traditional medical science that heals not
only the body but also the spirit. No other form of medicine traditional
or modern surpasses the soothing power of Ayurveda. Specialized
Ayurveda resorts in Kerala presents the traveler the opportunity
to calm strained nerves and feel young again and ready to face life.
Kerala is a land of unspeakable charm. 
Kerala is a state on the Malabarcoast of Southwestern
India. It is a land of myths and dreams. Its greenery enchants you
and once you visit the place you will understand why Kerala is known
as God`s Own Country. It is filled with plains, hills, streams and
rivers and Kerala enjoys a very cool climate. Of course it is a
paradise on earth. It is one of the favorite spots of tourists.
Origin
The ancient Keralite legend claim that Kerala originated when Parasurama,
the avatar of Vishnu, threw his battle-axe into the sea. So, it
is believed that Kerala originated from the waters. This legend
is a Brahmin appropriation of an earlier Chera (Chera dynasty was
one of the ancient dynasties that ruled Southern India fronm the
ancient times) legend, where the Chera King, Velkezhu Kuttavan threw
his spear into the sea to claim land from it. The earliest record
of Kerala is contained in the Sanskrit epic, Aitareya Aranyaka.
Origin of name
The word Kerala is derived from the Sanskrit word keralam, which
means ` the land added on`( with reference to its mythological origin).
Another theory states the word Kerala or Keralam is derived from
two words `kera` and `alam`. In which `kera` means coconut tree
and `alam` means `land of` or `abode of`. Therefore the word Keralam
means the land of coconuts. The natives of Kerala are called as
Keralites. Another theory states that the word Keralam originated
from the phrase `chera alam` which means land of Chera.
History of Kerala 
The first evidence of habitation in Kerala was in the 10 century
BC. The ancient inhabitants spoke Tamil, bringing forth the evidence
that Kerala and Tamil Nadu once shared a common language, culture
and ethnicity. Only in the 14th century Kerala became a distinct
region. The first kingdom that ruled Kerala was the Chera Kingdom.
In the Tamil Literature, the Chera rulers were referred to as Cheral,
Kuttuvan, Azhiyan, Irumporai and Athan depending on the positions
these rulers held in the past.
Geography of Kerala
The exquisite and gorgeous land of Kerala is situated at the Southwest
tip of India. Kerala is bounded by Arabian Sea on the West, Karnataka
on the North, and Tamil Nadu on the East. Kerala stretches 550 km
along India`s southwest coast and is just 120 km at its broadest
point. The state of Kerala can be divided into hills, valleys, plains
and coasts. On the coastal belts are situated the worlds famous
back waters. The climate of Kerala is tropical. Kerala enjoys the
four climates as winter, summer, South West Monsoon and North East
Monsoon.
Suggested Tour Packages
Culture of Kerala
Temples of Kerala
Museums of Kerala
Folk Dances of Kerala
Costume of Kerala
Districts of Kerala
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