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Kerala

India

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A young woman kayaks through the backwaters of Monroe Island in Kollam District, Kerala, South India.

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Overview

For many travelers, Kerala is South India's most serenely beautiful state. This slender coastal strip is defined by its layered landscape: almost 373 miles (600km) of glorious Arabian Sea coast and beaches; a languid network of glistening backwaters; and the spice- and tea-covered hills of the Western Ghats, dotted with fiercely protected wildlife reserves and cool hill stations such as Munnar. Just setting foot on this swathe of soul-soothing, palm-shaded green will slow your subcontinental stride to a blissed-out amble. Kerala is a world away from the hectic action of the rest of India, its long, fascinating backstory illuminated by historically evocative cities like Kochi (Cochin) and Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum).

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India: A 13-day Culinary Adventure to Kerala

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  1. 1Visit Munnar’s tea plantations, museum, and factory for a tea immersion steeped in the landscape
  2. 2Tour the historic landmarks of Fort Kochi, from the spice warehouse to ancient religious hallmarks
  3. 3Sip chai from roadside stalls in the countryside of Kerala
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Tropical Kerala shines with palm-fringed backwaters and uncrowded beaches, just as it amazes with tea-covered hills and transfixing art forms.

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