Saturday, July 27, 2013

Kerala: Miles, Smiles,Whiles


Advantageously situated to be applauded as one of the paradises reigned by the splendor and loveliness of our mother earth, Kerala has always offered in abundance a variety of theme-based contentment. A preferred destination for the assortment of features presented; namely flora wrapped along the curvy mountain forms leading its way to a breezy crest, the affectionate engaging chirpings hidden amongst these greens, the untamed roars of the wildlife; aqua gracing through a selection of beaches, backwaters and waterfalls; culture that highlights the yesteryears of the terrain and arts that flaunt the ethnicity of the traditions, crowned by an extensive anthology of music and dance; palaces, forts and monuments sculpted into the most magnificent architecture; eternal existence of peaceful, spiritual and worship destinations; the eco way of healing through Ayurveda, meditation and yoga; and more such inexhaustible distinctiveness.

The tropical shoreline has been distinguished as one of the must see destinations in the world. While, like previously cited, one can visibly categorize a substantial wealth of sightseeing choices; there are a few unavoidable uniqueness of this panorama appealing coast.

The backwaters lavishly gushing in the region of the southern half of the land is predominantly the most attracting factor for the tourists. Previously explored from the banks of the lake and/or by sailing through traditional snake boats or motor boats, the commercialization of the tourism industry here has recently motivated a climb in the number of resorts, hotels, home-stays and the kettuvalloms (popularly known as the houseboat) in these neighborhoods. These tour promoting add-ons have made it convenient for the tourists to enjoy a tranquil rejuvenating stay on the banks witnessing the calm and serene ripples; or sailing through the waters during the day and staying aboard while the boat is anchored during the sundown hours. The backwater tourism hub Alappuzha (Alleppey) along with its spirited neighbor Kumarakom together witnesses plenty of backwater enthusiasts all through the year; most of whom would not miss a houseboat cruise of the unruffled aqua. Sometimes, one longs for the incredible moment of being lost in the middle of nowhere with your loved ones! These waters definitely seem to be nature’s response to such a spectacular desire.

While the backwaters are the most eminent aspect that defines Kerala’s exclusivity, there are many more such striking features which, though not uniquely associated to Kerala alone, are still exhibited as its many heavenly possessions. The extensive golden shoreline offers a calm and composed atmosphere differing from some of the glam laden beaches in other parts of the country. The waves shall triumph to be your best companion here despite any hustles in the backdrop. The numerous wildlife conservatories in the various parts of Kerala exemplify flora and fauna enjoying their natural habitats and native routines. Here, the untamed beings are at utmost ease, while we are allowed touring their neighborhoods by not upsetting their chores. The chilly pinnacle of the hills offer plentiful evolved and emergent picturesque spots, views of the valleys, massive dams, loud waterfalls, slopes encumbered with spice cultivations, and an excellent fresh and windy environment.

Like any other region, the arts and culture of a province would be distinctly defined in comparison to other similar civilizations. Kerala has been exceedingly fortunate to have been blessed upon such a colossal reserve of talent and traditions. Be it the intense Kathakali expressions or the elegant Mohinattam moves, the shrine fests or tribal originated customs, the ancestral martial art form of Kalaripazhatu or the magnificent paintings, the possession of these colors of life are as rich as the architectural delight of the land or the spiritual enlightening attained here.

While on one hand it takes pride in its universal recognition for its blissful attractiveness, some parts of this world still seem untapped. Obviously, these hidden fractions here aren’t as widely recognized to the tourists, but are the most celestial attractions as observed by the explorers who are striving their way through these little hideaways. Tiny villages along some unexplored seashore or somewhere at the pinnacle of a hill form, small hut or tree houses amidst the forest areas and many such imperceptible aspects specifically are making their immense progress towards the tourism themes, as wilderness is the one of the most sought out feature of a Kerala tour. The raw and natural exquisiteness of Kerala has forever been a prime factor in grabbing interest of all those voyagers from around the globe and hence the evolution of these tender features is marking wonders in its tourism history!

Frequented by visitors from around the world throughout the different seasons, this destination campaigning its ‘National Geographies one of the ten paradises on earth’ title continues to marvel people with its phenomenally accepted beauty, and why be otherwise when it ideally is a wonderful getaway.