Kerala
| Kerala | |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | God's Own Country |
| Capital | Thiruvananthapuram |
| Largest City | Kochi |
| Country | India |
| Official Language | Malayalam |
| Area | 38,852 km² |
| Population | 35 million (approx.) |
| Districts | 14 |
| Founded | 1 November 1956 |
Kerala is a state located on the southwestern Malabar Coast of India. Popularly known as God's Own Country, Kerala is renowned for its lush green landscapes, serene backwaters, pristine beaches, Ayurvedic traditions and rich cultural heritage. It was formed on 1 November 1956 following the States Reorganisation Act, merging the former states of Travancore-Cochin and the Malabar district of Madras State.
Geography
Kerala is bordered by Karnataka to the north, Tamil Nadu to the east and south, and the Arabian Sea to the west. The state stretches over 550 kilometres along the Malabar Coast. Its geography is divided into three distinct regions — the highlands in the east with the Western Ghats, the midlands with rolling hills and valleys, and the lowlands along the coastal belt.
Kerala has 44 rivers, of which 41 flow westward into the Arabian Sea. The state is also home to the famous Vembanad Lake, the longest lake in India, and the Ashtamudi Lake.
History
Kerala has one of the oldest and richest histories in India. The region was part of the ancient spice trade routes, attracting traders from Arabia, China, Greece and Rome. The Chera dynasty ruled much of Kerala in ancient times. The arrival of Vasco da Gama in 1498 marked the beginning of European colonial influence, with the Portuguese, Dutch and British successively establishing control over parts of the region.
The princely states of Travancore and Cochin, along with the Malabar district, were merged to form the state of Kerala on 1 November 1956, celebrated annually as Kerala Piravi (Kerala Day).
Economy
Kerala's economy is one of the most developed among Indian states, with high human development indicators. Key sectors include:
- Remittances – Kerala receives one of the highest volumes of remittances in India from its large Non-Resident Keralite (NRK) community
- Tourism – A major contributor to the state economy, driven by backwaters, hill stations, beaches and Ayurveda
- Agriculture – Coconut, rubber, spices, tea and coffee are major crops
- Fisheries – Kerala is among India's leading states in marine fish production
- Information Technology – Technopark in Thiruvananthapuram and Infopark in Kochi are major IT hubs
Tourism
Kerala is one of India's most popular tourist destinations. Notable attractions include:
- Alleppey (Alappuzha) – Famous for its backwater houseboat cruises
- Munnar – A scenic hill station known for tea plantations
- Wayanad – A green highland district with forests and wildlife
- Kochi – A historic port city with colonial heritage
- Thekkady – Home to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
- Kovalam and Varkala – Popular beach destinations
- Thrissur – Cultural capital of Kerala, home to the famous Thrissur Pooram festival
Culture
Kerala has a vibrant and ancient cultural tradition. Classical art forms such as Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, Koodiyattam, Theyyam and Ottamthullal originate from Kerala. The state has one of the highest literacy rates in India and is known for its progressive social indicators.
Onam, the harvest festival celebrated in August-September, is the state festival of Kerala and is marked by elaborate feasts, boat races and cultural performances.
Education
Kerala has the highest literacy rate among all Indian states. The state is home to several prominent universities and institutions including:
- University of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram
- Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT), Kochi
- Calicut University, Malappuram
- Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam
Transport
Kerala has a well-connected transport network including:
- Airports – Cochin International Airport (Kochi), Trivandrum International Airport, Calicut International Airport and Kannur International Airport
- Railways – Connected by the Indian Railways network along the coastal belt
- Roads – National highways and state highways connecting all districts
- Waterways – Kerala has an extensive network of inland waterways used for transport and tourism