Kerala – Things To Do

Located near Kozhikode, on the banks of River Chaliyar is Iringal Crafts Village. The village is spread across 20 acres of land, where local artisans and craftsmen are encouraged to show their skills and sell their products to visiting tourists. You can pick up some beautiful works of art here made from coir, banana fibre, bamboo, coconut shells and other local materials found in abundance in Kerala. But it does not end at that. If you are curious about art yourself, you can attend art workshops here and learn to make a few art pieces yourself.

Kalaripayattu is a form of martial arts which originated in Kerala. It is believed to be more than 3000 years old. Shaolin, the Chinese form of martial arts, is believed to have originated from Kalaripayattu too. Much like other martial arts forms, this art form too was taught in isolation in ancient times  The art form lost much of its significance in modern times. However, it is slowly making a comeback in the form of dances and fitness routines. There are about 500 schools in Kerala which train people in this magnificent form of martial arts. When in Kerala, watch a Kalaripayattu bout. You will be mesmerized by the forms and athletic moves of the fighters.

Situated 40 km from Munnar, in Idukki district, is Marayoor, or Marayur. It is famous for its natural sandalwood forests, and its rock paintings which date back to pre-historic era. There are caves to be explored and a children’s park as well for some fun and frolic. Get down at Ernakulam station and take a taxi to Marayoor for a different kind of Kerala experience.

Kerala is known for its procession of elephants decked up in beautiful colors. But even more exciting than that is a ride atop one of the elephants in Kerala. You can explore the countryside with an elephant ride by the banks of Bharathapuzha River, you can ride deep into forests for an exciting wildlife safari, or you can choose to explore the many plantations of Kerala atop an elephant- there are quite a few choices to choose from.

Theyyam is a form of God, a corrupt one at that, as believed by the people of Kerala. A Theyyam performance involves invoking the God and seeking His blessings. It is a popular art form of Malabar, which also stands for equality between the lower and upper castes of Hindus. It is an open-theatre like performance in which a lot of hymns and praises are sung, and like other art forms of Kerala, this one too involves some colorful costumes and beautiful dance postures.

Ayurveda in Kerala is akin to gambling in Las Vegas, you just cannot miss it when visiting the destination. Ayurveda resorts dot the landscape of Kerala, offering various forms of natural treatment and rejuvenation. Take a break and get an Ayurveda massage from the experts when in Kerala. The experience is nothing short of divinity.

The backwaters of Alleppey are like the soul of Kerala. You can take a houseboat cruise on the backwaters of Alleppey, which is one the best houseboat experiences in Kerala, travelling through the narrow canals, and enjoying the lush greenery. It is a romantic experience, irrespective of whether you are with your partner, friends, or all alone.

You just cannot separate Kerala from coconut. This gift of nature is everywhere to be seen in Kerala, from housing to clothing, art forms, food and more. There is nothing like sipping a tender coconut plucked straight from the tree. It literally refreshes you from inside out, and the lush surroundings of Kerala just add to the experience.