Kerala – God's Own Country for Backpackers

🕰️ Kerala’s Rich Tapestry: Spice, Stories & Sea

Long before modern maps labeled it “God’s Own Country,” Kerala thrived as a legendary center of spice trade. For over 3,000 years, this tropical coastal state has drawn traders from across the globe — from Arab dhow sailors and Chinese merchants to Portuguese and Dutch colonialists — each adding a thread to Kerala’s rich cultural fabric.

It was here that St. Thomas the Apostle is believed to have first set foot in India, spreading Christianity’s roots deep into the land. The ancient kingdoms of the Cheras and Travancore rose and fell, building forts, temples, and palaces that stand as silent storytellers to this day.

Kerala is also a pioneer of education and social progress. Boasting the highest literacy rate in India, it became the first state to achieve 100% primary education — a testament to its forward-thinking spirit. But beneath all this history, Kerala remains a living, breathing green paradise, its hills, rivers, and beaches pulsing with life and legend.

💼 Why Backpackers Keep Coming Back to Kerala

Nature That Takes Your Breath Away

From rolling tea plantations in Munnar to the tranquil backwaters of Alleppey, Kerala offers an endless menu of natural beauty. Lush forests, spice-scented hills, waterfalls that cascade into cool pools — here, every step is a postcard.

Wallet-Friendly Travel

You don’t have to break the bank to soak it all in. Simple rooms in guesthouses or hostels can be found for less than ₹500 a night. Street-side meals, especially the traditional Sadya feast or a plate of freshly steamed idlis with chutney, rarely cost more than ₹100. Even boat rides through the backwaters can be affordable if you choose local ferries or group tours.

Safe & Welcoming Locals

Kerala’s people are renowned for their warmth and hospitality. English is widely spoken, making it easier for travelers to connect, yet the genuine smiles and kindness transcend language barriers.

Cultural Richness That Transcends Time

The classical dance form Kathakali, the vibrant Theyyam rituals, and the colorful temple festivals offer glimpses into a culture that’s both ancient and alive.

The Art of Slow Travel

Kerala doesn’t rush. It invites you to breathe in, slow down, and savor every moment — whether it’s a quiet sunrise on a backwater canal or a meditative yoga session overlooking the sea.

📍 Must-Visit Places in Kerala for the Backpacker Soul

Kochi (Cochin): A Blend of Old and New

Kochi pulses with colonial charm — Fort Kochi’s cobblestone streets are lined with colorful colonial buildings, quaint cafés, and the iconic Chinese fishing nets silhouetted against the sunset. Art lovers will enjoy the Biennale exhibitions and street art, while history buffs can explore Dutch Palaces and Jewish Synagogues. Don’t miss tasting fresh seafood and sipping strong South Indian coffee at local eateries.

Alleppey (Alappuzha): The Backwater Heartbeat

Alleppey is the gateway to Kerala’s famous backwaters. Renting a houseboat here — even for a night — is an unforgettable experience. Drift through narrow canals fringed with palm trees, watch village life unfold on the banks, and glide past rice paddies and lotus blooms. For a more budget-friendly and authentic vibe, opt for canoe rides with local fishermen or stay at a homestay in a backwater village.

Munnar: Tea Hills and Misty Mornings

Munnar’s sprawling tea plantations roll out like emerald carpets beneath a misty sky. Wander the hiking trails through lush forests, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and visit the tea museums to learn how the fragrant leaves are harvested and processed. The serene Eravikulam National Park, home to the endangered Nilgiri Tahr, is a nature lover’s paradise.

Varkala: Cliffside Bliss

This beach town perches atop dramatic cliffs overlooking the Arabian Sea. Varkala offers a laid-back vibe, with yoga retreats, affordable beach shacks, and lively nightlife. The natural springs and sandy coves invite you to relax, while the vibrant Janardanaswamy Temple nearby connects you with Kerala’s spiritual side.

Wayanad: Forests, Waterfalls & Wildlife

Nestled in the Western Ghats, Wayanad is a lush wonderland of rainforests, spice plantations, and hidden waterfalls. Trek through the Chembra Peak trail for spectacular views or visit ancient caves and wildlife sanctuaries. Wayanad’s villages offer authentic homestays where you can taste home-cooked Kerala cuisine and learn about tribal traditions.

Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram): Capital Culture

The southern capital balances urban life with historical treasures. Visit the magnificent Padmanabhaswamy Temple, explore museums, and stroll along the serene Kovalam Beach nearby.

🔍 Hidden Gems & Offbeat Treasures to Explore

Munroe Island: A Backwater Village Untouched by Time

Kayak through narrow canals, watch fishermen haul their nets, and enjoy the slow rhythm of village life in this peaceful backwater hamlet. It’s a perfect place for those wanting to get off the tourist path.

Marari Beach: Quiet Shores Away From Crowds

If you seek solitude by the sea, Marari’s pristine sandy stretches and sleepy fishing villages offer peace and natural beauty without the tourist rush.

Aranmula: Craftsmanship and Culture

Known for its unique metal mirrors and the ancient Aranmula Boat Race, this village is a treasure trove of traditional arts and cultural festivals.

Meesapulimala: Trekker’s Secret Near Munnar

Less crowded than the popular Anamudi Peak, this trekking spot offers lush trails, wildlife sightings, and breathtaking mountain panoramas.

🧭 Unique Experiences to Truly Live Kerala

• Live on a Houseboat: Experience the magic of drifting through Kerala’s backwaters under starlit skies, waking to the gentle ripple of water and village sounds.

• Savor a Traditional Kerala Sadya: Served on a banana leaf, this feast includes over 20 different dishes — from tangy pickles to coconut-infused curries — each bite a celebration of Kerala’s culinary artistry.

• Watch Kathakali at Greenix Village, Kochi: Witness the elaborate makeup, dramatic facial expressions, and storytelling through dance in one of Kerala’s most authentic performance venues.

• Join a Yoga Retreat in Varkala: Rejuvenate your mind and body with daily yoga sessions, meditation, and Ayurvedic treatments overlooking the ocean.

• Ride the Local Train Through Countryside: Slow, scenic, and full of life, the trains between Kochi, Munnar, and Alleppey offer unforgettable glimpses of rural Kerala.

• Attend a Temple Festival: Elephant processions, traditional drum ensembles, and fireworks — temple festivals are vibrant celebrations steeped in centuries of faith and community.

💡 Backpacker Travel Tips for Kerala

Getting Around

Local buses are abundant and very cheap but often crowded — perfect for immersing in local life. The Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) offers comfortable intercity buses. For more flexibility, rent a scooter in towns like Varkala or Munnar. Auto-rickshaws are convenient for short distances, but always negotiate the fare beforehand.

Budget Tips

Dine where locals dine. Street food and small eateries serve delicious, authentic meals at a fraction of tourist prices. Use hostel booking apps like Zostel or Hostelworld for affordable accommodation options. Try to avoid houseboat tours during peak tourist seasons to get better rates.

Essential Apps

• Rome2Rio: For easy route planning across cities and towns

• RedBus: Book long-distance buses in advance

• IRCTC Rail Connect: For train ticket bookings

• Google Maps (offline): Crucial for rural areas with patchy network

Cultural Etiquette

Dress modestly when visiting temples and rural areas. Kerala is conservative about attire — long pants or sarongs for men, and women should cover shoulders and knees. Respect Ayurvedic traditions and the local lifestyle by asking permission before taking photos, especially of people or religious ceremonies.

📆 Best Time to Visit Kerala

• October to February: Cool, dry, and perfect for exploring beaches, backwaters, and hill stations.

• March to May: Hot and humid, but ideal for hill escapes like Munnar and Wayanad, where the climate remains pleasant.

• June to September: The monsoon season bathes Kerala in lush green, perfect for Ayurvedic therapies and witnessing waterfalls at their fullest. Note that some trekking routes may be closed due to slippery trails.

✈️ Final Thoughts: Why Kerala Should Be On Your Backpacker Map

Kerala perfectly balances nature’s grandeur with deep-rooted culture and affordable travel — a combination rare to find in today’s busy world. Whether you’re slowly cruising the serene backwaters on a houseboat, wandering colonial alleys in Kochi, hiking misty tea plantations in Munnar, or simply watching a sunset on Varkala’s cliffs, every moment invites you to slow down and savor.

This is a place where every breath feels like a reset, every meal a celebration, and every smile a welcome home.

So pack your bags light, stay curious, and let the gentle rhythm of Kerala’s backwaters and hills carry you away into one of India’s most unforgettable backpacking adventures.