Ladakh – The Land of High Passes and Hostel Stories

🕰️ A Brief History of Kerala – Spice, Stories & Sea

Kerala isn’t just a pretty postcard; it’s a place soaked in centuries of fascinating history. Known for its spice trade, Kerala has been attracting explorers, traders, and even invaders for over 3,000 years. Phoenicians, Arabs, Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch, and British — all left their footprints here.

It was here that St. Thomas the Apostle arrived in India around 52 AD, making Christianity one of the oldest religions in the region. You’ll also find influences of Judaism, Islam, and Hinduism seamlessly blended across the state.

Did you know? Kerala was the first Indian state to achieve 100% literacy, and it consistently ranks top in health, education, and gender equality. This isn’t just a tourist destination; it’s a socially progressive, intellectually rich society wrapped in natural beauty.

💼 Why Backpackers Love Kerala

So, what makes Kerala a favorite for budget travelers and hostel-hoppers like us?

✨ Culture on Every Corner

Whether it’s the classical dance form of Kathakali, the sacred Theyyam rituals, or massive temple festivals with elephants and fireworks — Kerala is a cultural buffet. You’re never far from a celebration or performance.

💸 Budget-Friendly

From thalis that cost less than ₹100 to cozy hostels under ₹500 per night, Kerala lets you travel luxuriously even on a modest backpacker’s budget.

🌱 Laid-Back Vibe

There’s a spiritual calm that lingers in the air. Life moves slowly here, and that’s exactly what makes it perfect for slow travel. No rush, no pressure — just you and the journey.

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Friendly People

English is widely spoken, and locals are incredibly kind and curious. You’ll feel safe, welcomed, and often invited for chai and stories.

📍 Must-Visit Places in Kerala

Here's your no-BS, tried-and-tested list of must-see places in Kerala:

1. Kochi (Cochin)

A hip port city where history meets art. Visit the colonial Fort Kochi area, pose with the famous Chinese fishing nets, and sip cold brews in indie cafés. Don’t miss the street art in the Biennale time!

2. Alleppey (Alappuzha)

The Venice of the East. Rent a houseboat or take a cheap canoe ride through narrow canals. This is slow travel at its finest.

3. Munnar

A cool hill station blanketed with tea gardens and misty mountains. Great for sunrise treks and cozy hostel nights by the fire.

4. Varkala

Cliffs, sea, yoga, and chill. Varkala’s beach scene is more laid-back than Goa and cheaper too. Perfect for long stays and spiritual recharging.

5. Wayanad

Forests, waterfalls, and spice plantations. Wayanad is an adventure zone with amazing treks and camping spots.

6. Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram)

The capital is a cultural hotspot. Explore the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, museums, and nearby beaches like Kovalam.

🔍 Hidden Gems & Offbeat Treasures

Want to avoid the tourist crowd? These lesser-known gems are for you.

Munroe Island

Tiny and untouched, this backwater paradise near Kollam is perfect for kayaking through peaceful canals.

Marari Beach

Skip the buzz of Varkala and unwind at Marari — a cleaner, quieter beach experience.

Aranmula

Home to the traditional Aranmula Kannadi (handmade metal mirrors) and snake boat races. Pure local energy.

Meesapulimala

A lesser-known trek near Munnar, Meesapulimala offers breathtaking mountain views without the crowd of Anamudi.

🧭 Unique Experiences You Shouldn’t Miss

These are not your average “top 10” Instagram spots — these are things you’ll feel long after you leave:

🥥 Sleep on a Houseboat

Spend a night floating through palm-lined waterways, eating fresh fish and watching fireflies.

🍲 Eat a Sadya

A traditional vegetarian feast served on banana leaves. Over 20 items. Don’t ask — just eat.

🎭 Watch Kathakali Live

Catch a show at Greenix Village in Kochi or a local theatre. The makeup, expressions, and stories are intense and magical.

🧘🏽 Try a Yoga Retreat

Varkala is the go-to place for drop-in classes or week-long retreats. Some even include Ayurvedic massages.

🚆 Take a Local Train

Board a second-class train and watch the green countryside blur by as vendors sell chai and samosas.

🐘 Attend a Temple Festival

If your timing’s right, you might see elephants paraded with golden headdresses and hundreds of drummers playing in sync. It’s spiritual and surreal.

🗺️ Backpacker Travel Tips for Kerala

Let’s get practical. Here’s what you should know before you go:

🚍 Getting Around

• KSRTC Buses: Cheap and cover most places, though sometimes crowded.

• Trains: Comfortable for longer routes; book through IRCTC app.

• Scooter Rentals: Best way to explore places like Varkala or Munnar.

💰 Budget Tips

• Eat at local “meals” shops or roadside cafés. They’re clean, cheap, and delicious.

• Use Zostel, goStops, or Hostelworld for budget hostels.

• Avoid tourist traps by asking locals where they eat.

📱 Handy Apps

• Rome2Rio: Route planning

• RedBus: Bus booking

• IRCTC Rail Connect: Train booking

• Google Maps: Save offline maps for rural areas

• Ola/Auto: Cabs in cities like Kochi or Trivandrum

🙏 Local Etiquette

• Dress modestly, especially at temples.

• Don’t touch people’s heads — considered sacred.

• Remove shoes before entering someone’s home or temple.

• Respect Ayurveda clinics and wellness centers — they take healing seriously here.

📆 Best Time to Visit Kerala

Timing is everything in travel. Here's what to expect in each season:

October to February

The best time. Cool, dry weather perfect for beaches, treks, and exploring. Peak tourist season — book ahead.

March to May

Hot and humid. Better for budget travelers since prices drop. Ideal for escaping to hill stations like Munnar.

June to September

The magical monsoon. Greenery comes alive, waterfalls gush, and Ayurvedic centers open for rejuvenation therapies. Treks may be risky, but it’s peaceful and budget-friendly.

✈️ Final Thoughts – Why Kerala Should Be on Your Backpacker Bucket List

As someone who’s traveled across India with just a backpack and an open mind, I can tell you — Kerala is special. It’s not flashy. It doesn’t scream for your attention. But once you’re here, it gently wraps you in its arms and shows you a slower, richer way of traveling.

Whether you're sipping chai in Fort Kochi, drifting through mist in Munnar, or meditating by the cliffs in Varkala — Kerala doesn’t just offer sights, it offers stories.

So pack light, bring your curiosity, and get ready to fall in love with “God’s Own Country.” I did — and I have a feeling you will too.