Kerala, often referred to as “God’s Own Country,” is a southwestern state located on the Malabar Coast of India. With its rich history, diverse culture, and breathtaking natural beauty, Kerala has always been a fascinating region. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the history of Kerala, spanning over thousands of years.

Prehistoric Era: The history of Kerala can be traced back to the prehistoric era, with evidence of human settlements in the region dating back to the Paleolithic age. Archaeological excavations have unearthed ancient tools, pottery, and megalithic monuments, indicating the presence of early human civilizations.

Ancient Period: The ancient period of Kerala’s history witnessed the rise of several powerful kingdoms and trade routes. The region’s geographical location made it a significant center for trade and cultural exchange. The ancient epic, the Mahabharata, mentions Kerala as a prosperous and fertile land ruled by the mythical king Parasurama. According to legend, Parasurama, an avatar of Lord Vishnu, reclaimed Kerala from the Arabian Sea.

Sangam Era: The Sangam Era, from the 3rd century BCE to the 4th century CE, marks an important phase in Kerala’s history. The region was divided into various small kingdoms known as “Nadu,” and a unique literary tradition known as Sangam literature flourished. The Sangam texts provide valuable insights into the social, economic, and cultural aspects of ancient Kerala.

Chera Dynasty: One of the prominent dynasties of ancient Kerala was the Chera dynasty, which ruled the region for several centuries. The Cheras had extensive trade connections with ancient Rome, Greece, and Egypt. They controlled the spice trade and maintained a strong navy. Muziris, the famous port city in Kerala, served as a major trading hub during this period.

Medieval Period: The medieval period of Kerala’s history witnessed the emergence of various powerful kingdoms and the influence of foreign powers. Arab and Chinese traders frequented the Malabar Coast, introducing new cultural and religious elements. The rise of the Chola and Pandya dynasties in Tamil Nadu had a significant impact on Kerala’s political landscape.

Zamorins of Calicut: The Zamorins of Calicut, a powerful dynasty, gained prominence during the medieval period. They established control over key trading ports and played a crucial role in facilitating trade between the East and the West. The Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama arrived in Calicut in 1498, marking the beginning of European colonialism in Kerala.

European Colonialism: The arrival of European powers, particularly the Portuguese, Dutch, and British, in Kerala had a profound impact on its history. The Portuguese established forts and trading posts along the Malabar Coast, aiming to monopolize the spice trade. However, their dominance was challenged by the Dutch, who managed to gain control over several ports.

British Raj and Independence: In the 18th century, the British East India Company gradually gained control over Kerala. The region became part of the Madras Presidency during British colonial rule. Kerala played an active role in the Indian independence movement, with prominent leaders like A.K. Gopalan and K. Kelappan leading the struggle against British imperialism.

Formation of Kerala State: After India gained independence in 1947, efforts were made to reorganize the states on linguistic lines. On November 1, 1956, the state of Kerala was formed by merging the Malayalam-speaking regions of Malabar, Travancore, and Cochin. The state of Kerala became the first in India to achieve 100% literacy and made significant progress in areas like healthcare and social development.

Contemporary Kerala: In recent years, Kerala has emerged as a highly progressive and economically vibrant state. Known for its high HDI (Human Development Index) and social indicators, Kerala has made significant advancements in education, healthcare, and women’s empowerment. The state’s tourism industry, with its backwaters, pristine beaches, and Ayurvedic treatments, attracts a large number of domestic and international tourists.

In conclusion, the history of Kerala is a captivating tale of ancient civilizations, powerful dynasties, colonial encounters, and socio-cultural transformations. Kerala’s rich heritage and its ability to embrace modernity while preserving its traditional values make it a truly remarkable region of India.

Culture

The culture of Kerala is a beautiful tapestry woven with diverse traditions, art forms, festivals, cuisine, and lifestyle. Known for its vibrant and unique cultural heritage, Kerala has preserved its traditions while embracing modernity. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the rich cultural aspects that define the essence of Kerala.

Language and Literature: The official language of Kerala is Malayalam, which has a rich literary tradition dating back to ancient times. Malayalam literature encompasses various genres such as poetry, novels, short stories, and plays. Eminent poets and writers like Vallathol Narayana Menon, Kumaran Asan, and MT Vasudevan Nair have contributed significantly to Malayalam literature. Kerala’s libraries, like the Trivandrum Public Library, house a vast collection of literary works.

Art and Architecture: Kerala’s art and architecture are distinctive and display a unique blend of Dravidian, European, and indigenous styles. The traditional architectural style of Kerala is characterized by sloping roofs, wooden carvings, and intricate designs. The famous Padmanabhapuram Palace, Krishnapuram Palace, and the Hill Palace Museum are exemplary architectural marvels.

The state is also renowned for its mural paintings, which adorn many temples and historical sites. These intricate artworks depict mythological stories and cultural themes. The Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram is a prime example of the mural tradition.

Performing Arts: Kerala is famous for its vibrant performing arts, which encompass dance, music, and theater. The classical dance form of Kerala is Kathakali, characterized by elaborate costumes, facial expressions, and intricate footwork. Other traditional dance forms include Mohiniyattam, Thiruvathirakali, and Koodiyattam.

Kerala’s music is deeply rooted in its culture, with classical Carnatic music being widely practiced. The state also has its own unique music tradition called Sopana Sangeetham, which is performed in temples. The Chenda, a traditional percussion instrument, is an integral part of Kerala’s musical heritage.

Theater has a significant presence in Kerala’s cultural landscape. The art form of Koothu, a traditional form of Sanskrit theater, is performed in temples and depicts mythological stories. The vibrant folk theater form of Theyyam, prevalent in North Kerala, combines dance, music, and religious rituals.

Festivals: Kerala is known for its colorful and lively festivals, which are celebrated with great enthusiasm and fervor. Onam, the state festival, is the most important and widely celebrated festival in Kerala. It marks the homecoming of the mythical King Mahabali and involves various cultural activities, such as boat races, folk dances, and the grand feast called Onam Sadya.

Another popular festival is Vishu, which heralds the Malayalam New Year. The festival is celebrated with traditional rituals, floral decorations, and the exchange of gifts. Other prominent festivals include Thrissur Pooram, a grand temple festival known for its procession of caparisoned elephants, and the temple festivals of Attukal Pongala and Aranmula Vallamkali.

Cuisine: Kerala’s cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors, use of spices, and diverse culinary traditions. The staple food of Kerala is rice, which is often accompanied by a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Coconut is an essential ingredient in Kerala cuisine and is used in various forms, such as grated coconut, coconut milk, and coconut oil.

The traditional vegetarian meal of Kerala, called Sadya, is a grand feast served on a banana leaf. It consists of several dishes like sambar, avial, olan, and payasam. Seafood delicacies like karimeen pollichathu (pearl spot fish) and chemmeen curry (prawn curry) are popular specialties.

Ayurveda: Kerala is renowned for its Ayurvedic practices, which have been passed down through generations. Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, focuses on holistic healing and wellness. Kerala’s abundant natural resources, including medicinal plants and herbs, make it an ideal destination for Ayurvedic treatments and therapies.

Ayurvedic resorts and wellness centers offer a range of treatments like rejuvenation therapies, massages, and yoga sessions. Visitors from around the world come to Kerala to experience the healing benefits of Ayurveda and immerse themselves in its soothing ambiance.

Conclusion: The culture of Kerala is a treasure trove of traditions, arts, festivals, and culinary delights. Its vibrant performing arts, literary heritage, and architectural splendor reflect the rich history and diverse influences that have shaped Kerala’s cultural landscape. Whether it’s the graceful movements of Kathakali, the aroma of traditional Kerala cuisine, or the spiritual aura of its temples, Kerala’s culture continues to captivate and inspire people from all walks of life.

FAQ

What are the places from where we can shop during the Kerala trip?

During a trip to Kerala, there are several places where you can indulge in shopping and take back souvenirs and local products. Here are some popular shopping destinations in Kerala:

1. Kochi (Cochin): Kochi is a major commercial hub in Kerala and offers a range of shopping options. The bustling markets of Jew Town and Mattancherry are known for their antique shops, spices, and handicrafts. The famous Jew Street is a great place to find unique souvenirs, including vintage items and handcrafted jewelry. You can also explore the Broadway market and Marine Drive for clothing, textiles, and local products.
2. Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum): The capital city of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram, offers various shopping experiences. The Chalai Market is a vibrant local market where you can find everything from spices and textiles to handicrafts and fresh produce. The MG Road and Connemara Market are popular for textiles, clothing, and accessories. You can also visit the Kerala State Handloom Weavers Cooperative Society (HANTEX) and the Government Handicrafts Emporium for authentic handloom products and crafts.
3. Munnar: Munnar, a picturesque hill station, is famous for its tea plantations. You can visit the local tea factories and outlets to purchase high-quality tea varieties, including flavored and herbal teas. The town also offers shops selling local spices, homemade chocolates, aromatic oils, and handmade soaps.
4. Alappuzha (Alleppey): Alappuzha is renowned for its backwaters and houseboat cruises. The Nehru Trophy Boat Race held here is a major attraction. The town has a variety of shops where you can buy coir products like mats, carpets, and rugs made from coconut fibers. You can also find intricately designed wooden handicrafts and souvenirs depicting traditional art forms.
5. Kozhikode (Calicut): Kozhikode, historically known for its spice trade, offers a delightful shopping experience. The bustling SM Street (Mittai Theruvu) is famous for its sweet shops, where you can indulge in local delicacies like Halwa. The street is also known for its textile shops, jewelry stores, and handicraft emporiums. The Calicut Spice Market is a must-visit for buying aromatic spices, including black pepper, cardamom, and cinnamon.
6. Kannur: Kannur, known for its vibrant Theyyam rituals and pristine beaches, is an excellent place to shop for traditional handicrafts and textiles. The Theyyam-related artifacts, handloom fabrics, and traditional wooden handicrafts like wooden toys and furniture can be found in the local markets. The Kannur Handloom Cooperative Society is a popular outlet for authentic handloom products.
7. Thrissur: Thrissur, the cultural capital of Kerala, is famous for its traditional arts, festivals, and craftsmanship. The city is renowned for its gold jewelry and silk sarees. The Aranmula Kannadi, a unique handmade metal mirror, is a specialty of the region. The shops in Thrissur also offer intricate wood carvings, Kathakali masks, and bronze sculptures.

These are just a few of the many shopping destinations in Kerala. Whether you’re looking for spices, tea, handloom products, or traditional crafts, Kerala offers a wide range of options to satisfy every shopper’s interests. It’s always advisable to explore the local markets, emporiums, and specialty stores to discover the authentic flavors and treasures of Kerala.

How many minimum days are required to explore Kerala ?

The number of minimum days required to explore Kerala depends on various factors such as your travel preferences, the specific places you want to visit, and the experiences you wish to have. While it is ideal to spend at least a week or more to fully explore the beauty and diversity of Kerala, it is possible to have a meaningful trip even with a shorter duration. Here are some suggested minimum durations for different types of Kerala trips:

1. Quick Highlights Tour (3-5 days): If you have limited time but still want to experience the highlights of Kerala, you can consider a 3-5 day itinerary. This could include visiting popular destinations like Kochi (Cochin), Munnar, and Alleppey (Alappuzha). You can explore the historical sites and markets in Kochi, enjoy the tea plantations and scenic landscapes in Munnar, and take a backwater cruise or stay on a houseboat in Alleppey.
2. Backwater Experience (2-3 days): If you are specifically interested in the serene backwaters of Kerala, you can plan a 2-3 day trip focused on this experience. Stay on a traditional houseboat or opt for a homestay along the backwaters in places like Alleppey or Kumarakom. This allows you to soak in the tranquility of the backwaters, witness the local life and scenery, and indulge in traditional Kerala cuisine.
3. Beach and Ayurveda Retreat (4-7 days): For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, Kerala’s beautiful beaches and Ayurvedic treatments provide a perfect combination. You can spend 4-7 days exploring beach destinations like Kovalam, Varkala, or Marari. Along with beach activities, you can indulge in Ayurvedic massages, therapies, and rejuvenation programs offered by Ayurvedic resorts and wellness centers.
4. Cultural and Heritage Tour (5-7 days): Kerala is rich in culture, history, and heritage. If you wish to delve deeper into Kerala’s art forms, temples, and traditions, you can plan a 5-7 day cultural tour. Visit cities like Kochi, Thrissur, and Thiruvananthapuram to explore historical sites, museums, temples, and witness traditional art forms like Kathakali, Theyyam, and Mohiniyattam. You can also include visits to famous temples, palaces, and museums in your itinerary.
5. Wildlife and Nature Exploration (4-7 days): Kerala is blessed with abundant natural beauty and wildlife sanctuaries. If you are a nature enthusiast, you can plan a 4-7 day trip to explore places like Thekkady, Wayanad, and Periyar National Park. Enjoy wildlife safaris, trekking, and nature walks to experience the diverse flora and fauna of Kerala’s forests.

Remember that these are suggested minimum durations, and you can always extend your stay to further immerse yourself in the experiences Kerala has to offer. It’s important to plan your itinerary in advance and consider travel distances between destinations to make the most of your time.