Homestays in Munnar

ARANYAKA HOMESTAY
Munnar Homestay Photos	Description: ARANYAKA HOMESTAY is located 6 km away from Munnar, in Pallivasal. Overall there are 4 Cottages. The homestay doesn’t have an in-house restaurant, but they arrange food on request. It is an economic, neat and clean homestay accommodation for you.
MUNNAR RETREAT HOMESTAY
Munnar Homestay Photos	Description: MUNNAR RETREAT is located in Chithirapuram, very close to Alwaye - Munnar Road. Alwaye - Munnar road branches off at Pallivasal (2nd mile) leading to Pallivasal Power House. Chithirapuram is located on the road leading to Pallivasal Power House. Munnar Retreat is situated right at the Chithirapuram junction.
PAVITHRAM HOMESTAY
Homestay Photos	Description: PAVITHRAM HOMESTAY is situated in a serene and calm atmosphere in Devikulam which is a beautiful hill station that is 6 kilometers away from Munnar town. We have got two double bedded deluxe rooms and a four-bedded room in our home. There is also a four bedded out house attached to our home.
OLIVE BROOK
Homestay Photos	Description: OLIVE BROOK opens doors to a whole new world, where living is perfectly harmonized with nature. We offer excellent dining facilities, highly personalized services, cleanliness at its best and above all, tranquility and comfort to our guests. Rediscover the goodness of Mother Nature with us.
Munnar Dreams Homestay
Homestay Photos	Description: Munnar Dreams Home Stay is approved by the Tourism Department, Govt. of Kerala and classified as Gold Class. It has four well maintained rooms: 2 Executives rooms, 1 Deluxe room, 1 Family suite, (interconnected two rooms) with spacious balcony over viewing Anayirangal Lake. All the rooms are well furnished, created to blend comfort with elegance & style, with exquisitely designed furniture and attached bath.
ROSE GARDEN
Homestay Photos	Description: ROSE GARDEN is a government of Kerala approved plantation homestay located 3500 feet above sea level in a two acre compound surrounded by cardomom, rubber and tea plantations. It provides a sweet aroma of the spice scented cool air and overlooking pristine valleys and mountains that are home to exotic species of flora and fauna.
LILLY GARDENS
Munnar Homestay Photos	Description: LILLY GARDENS designed to give a feel of heritage of hospitality. Majestically poised on a peninsula, which sports the regal ambiances of an erstwhile culture, offering you a spectacular view of its natural splendor and a taste of its spicy richness with a subtle blend of the tradition and luxury.
THE SHADE HOMESTAY
Munnar Homestay Photos	Description: THE SHADE HOMESTAY is the perfect answer for a homely atmosphere. Relax with your family in their eco friendly and heritage form while you are on a trip in Kerala. People enjoy their trip with different executions; some spend their time learning more about Hinduism and the rich culture of Kerala.
MISTY HOMES
Idukki Homestay Photos	Description: MISTY HOMES, one of the leading Home Stay in Munnar have the pleasure to treat its guests with pleasing hospitality and the best efficient services. It offers peace, privacy and pure relaxation to the guests. Homestays and these special places also give ample opportunity to roam around the villages.
RANGER WOODS
Munnar Homestay Photos	Description: RANGER WOODS is one with modern amenities in Munnar. Nestled in Kerala's finest summer resort it extends homely stay in the hills. Elegantly furnished bedrooms, louvred balconies, multi-cuisine restaurant..... all serve the natural delight and have a homely feel to it.
MASHROOM VALLEY HOMESTAY
Idukki Homestay Photos	Description: MASHROOM VALLEY HOMESTAY, a perfect get away from the town with its panoramic view and the homely atmosphere, the perfect place for a quiet holiday. The chirp of birds, the misty mornings and the evenings where you can warm yourself around a bonfire is a home away from home environment.

Best Home Stay's in Palakkad

Palakkad is rightfully known as the Gateway of Kerala, giving the rest of India access to the State. For quite sometime the district was also called by its anglicised name Palghat. It's known to be rich in flora and fauna. Palakkad is prime among Kerala's most picturesque districts, thanks to its distinctive palmyra trees and extensive green paddy fields. It commands Palghat Gap, on its eastern border, a pass or natural depression through the Western Ghats ranges that run parallel to the west coast of India, and connects Kerala to the plains of the state of Tamil Nadu to the east. The Silent Valley National Park that abruptly rises to the Nilgiris is an everlasting marvel to the tourists.

Palakkad district has its own special characteristics. The fort of Hyder Ali tells us the story of Mysore invasions and the advent of the British to this part of the country. The Victoria College, started in 1886, marks the beginning of higher education in Malabar. The Jain temple near Chunnamputhara speaks of the magnanimity of the king of Palakkad who provided shelter to the people who escaped the religious persecutions. 

The ancient history of Palakkad is shrouded. According to William Logan, the author of the Malabar Manual, the Pallava dynasty of Kanchi might have invaded Malabar in the second or third centuary. One of their head quarters was a place called Palakada which could be the present day Palakkad. Malabar had been invaded by many of the ancient South Indian rulers. For many centuries, it was ruled by the Perumals. They had under them some powerful Utayavars who held authority in their own respective territories. After the rule of the Perumals, the country was divided among these chieftans. The valluvakkonathiri (ruler of Valluvanad), the rulers of Vengunad (Kollengodu Rajas) andf Sekhari Varma ( Raja of Palakkad) were the prominent rulers of this region, after the Perumals. 

When the Zamorin of Kozhikode invaded Palakkad in 1757, the raja of Palakkad sought the help of Hyder Ali of Mysore. Hyder Alis help forced the Zamorin to retreat. Later Hyder Ali subjugated all territories in Palakkad which were under the possession of Zamorin. Thus the whole area possessed by the Raja of Palakkad passed into the hands of the Mysore rulers Hyder Ali and his son Tippu Sultan. The war between Tippu and the East India Company ended with the treaty of 1872 and all the possessions of Tippu in Malabar were ceded to the British. Gradually these formed part of the Malabar district of the Madras Presidency. 

• Aswathi 
• Kandath Tharavad 
• Karapara Heritage
• Olappamannamana 
• Planters Retreat 
• Vaishnavam Homestay 
• Al - Bustan Residence
• Kalathil Homestay
• Sarojini Villa Naturopathy & Yoga Village Resort
• Sree Chitrakoodam
• Vadakkumpuram 
• Silver House Artistic
• Ciscilia Heritage
• Green Castle
• Herbal Villa Homestay
• Kalpataru 
• Midland Residency
• Mythri
• Peace Parlour 
• Revathy 
• Soradha Farm Retreat
• Ullattil Heritage Home 
• Vrindavan

Best Home Stay's in Malappuram

Malappuram district is Kerala's Cultural Crucible.The classic medieval center of Vedic learning and politics, Thirunavaya, home of the traditional Ayurveda medicine, Kottakkal and the oldest centre of education of Islam, Ponnani are situated in Malappuram District along with economically booming towns like Manjeri (former capital of the Cholanaikkans), Perinthalmanna, Chemmad, Edappal, and Kottakkal. In 1921, present day Malappuram district witnessed a devastating revolts and massacres known as the Moplah rebellions, followed by decades of frozen economical, social, and political development. In the early years of the Communist rule in Kerala, Malappuram now part of the newly formed Kerala state, saw large land reforms under the Land Reform Ordinance.

• Malabar Srings 
• Maranat Mana Heritage Homestay 
• Sopanam
• The Backwoods 
• Amala Bhavan 
• Chaliyar Hill Palm Retreat 
• Harmony 
• Kodeeri Natural Camp 
• Valliyar

Best Home Stay's in Kozhikode

Kozhikode District .... Once the capital of the powerful Zamorins and a prominent trade and commerce centre, Kozhikode was the most important region of Malabar in the days gone by. Today, lush green countrysides, serene beaches, historic sites, wildlife sanutaries, rivers, hills, a unique culture and a warm, friendly ambience make Kozhikode a popular destination.

Kozhikode District found a place in the World History with the discovery of Sea Route to India in 1498 by the Portuguese Navigator Vasco Da Gama. Vasco Da Gama landed at the Kappad sea shore with three vessels and 170 men. A monument is constucted here to commemorate the historical landing.Kozhikode is a historical town with a hoary past. From time immemorial, the city attracted travellers, with its charming physical features and prosperity.

• Liberty House
• Radha Madhavam 
• Sourabham
• Sourabham Homestay 
• Tharavad 
• Anugraha Home Stay 
• Good Land Homestay 
• Indra
• Kerala Discovery
• Krishna Leela

Best Homestays in Kannur

Kannur Home stays are a unique way of discovering the cultural mosaic of fascinating Kannur, the exquisite tropical land. Kannur Holidays and Ripples India offers to book home stays in Kannur and promises you memorable holidays. The concept of Kannur home stays basically gives you a unique opportunity to stay with an ordinary Malayali family in a private and very typical Kerala home. Wake up with the family; imitate their daily routine; eat home cooked Kerala cuisine served on plantain leaves; interact with the family; feel warmth exuding from every nook of the Kerala home; see Kerala with the eyes of your hosts and learn more about the land of coconuts and lustrous backwaters. There are several homes in Kannur that have been designed in the style of a traditional tharavadu. Use a natural washroom with screens of banana trees that is so typical of traditional Kerala, South India.

• Kallur Illam
• Sreevalsam

Best Homestays in Kasargod

Kasargod is the northernmost district of kerala.Kasargod is known as the land Yekshgana and Theyyams

There are different views on the derivation of the name "Kasargod".One view is that it is the combination of two Sanskrit words "kaasaara"(which means lake or pond) and “ kroda “(which means a place where treasure is kept). Another view is that it is the place where Kaasaraka trees (Strychnos nux vomica or Kaanjiram or Kaaraskara) are in abundance. Bothe views are relevant as there are large number of rivers, lakes and ponds in the coastal belt of the district besides thick flora consisting of innumerable varieties of trees, shribs etc. particularly plentitude of Kaasaraka trees.

• GEETANJALI HERITAGE
• NEELESHWAR HERMITAGE
• NALANDA RESORTS - KERALA
• OYSTER OPERA - KERALA

Best Home Stay's Wayanad

Wayanad is often called as the Green paradise in god's own country-Kerala. It's a Hill station district in the northern part of Kerala, with mist claded peaks. The place is famous for it's scenic beauty, wildlife and traditional concepts. 

Wayanad Home stays are a unique way of discovering the cultural mosaic of fascinating Wayanad, the exquisite tropical land. Ripples Holidays & Wayanad Holidays offers to book home stays in Wayanad and promises you memorable holidays. The concept of Wayanad home stays basically gives you a unique opportunity to stay with an ordinary Malayali family in a private and very typical Kerala home. Wake up with the family; imitate their daily routine; eat home cooked Kerala cuisine served on plantain leaves; interact with the family; feel warmth exuding from every nook of the Kerala home; see Kerala with the eyes of your hosts and learn more about the land of coconuts and lustrous backwaters. There are several homes in Wayanad that have been designed in the style of a traditional tharavadu. Use a natural washroom with screens of banana trees that is so typical of traditional Kerala, South India Wayanad Home stays providing accommodation for Individuals and groups for all budgets. Tree huts, plantation homestays, River facing homestays, forest facing homestays, Stay in tents etc.

Directory of Wayanad Homestays

• Rain Drops Homestay

• Vythiri Greens

• Chembra Homestay: 

• Dreams Homestay: 

• Wayanad Heritage: 

• Meenmuty Heights:

• Better Homestay : 

• Puzhamoola Homestay :

• Bluberry Homestay : 

• Riverside Eco Homestay:

• Whistling Rocks : 

• Coffee Heritage:

• Mountain Mist Homestay:

• Sundara Mahal Homestay : 

• Dew Villa:

• Ente Veedu Homestay :

• Ente Veedu Homestay :

• Kalindi Homestay:

• Agraharam Cottages:

• Aaranyakam Homestay:

• Edakkal Villa: 

• Wynd Valley: 

• Kashmir Mist Homestay:

• Pepper grove : 

• Soochippara Residency: 

• Hillview Kalpetta

• Four Season Homestay:

• Green Land: 

• Aashwas Homestay: 

• Yellow Bell Homestay

• Sweet Homes Homestay:

• Queens Homestay

• Olives Homestay: 

• Tee Trees Homestay:

• Saranga Homestay:

• Hillvew Waynd Homestay:

• Banasura homes:

Vallam Kali

Vallam Kali or Vallamkali literally means boat race in Malayalam. It is the traditional boat (paddled war canoe) race in Kerala (a state in south India.)

It is mainly conducted during the season of the harvest festival Onam in autumn. Vallam Kali includes races of many kinds of traditional boats (paddled longboat) of Kerala. The race of Chundan Vallam (snake boat) is the major event. Hence Vallam Kali is also known in English as Snake Boat Race and now in recent years has become a major tourist attraction. Other types of boats which do participate in various events in the race are Churulan Vallam, Iruttukuthy Vallam, Odi Vallam, Veppu Vallam (Vaipu Vallam), Vadakkanody Vallam, Kochu Vallam. The Nehru Trophy vallamkali winner for the 2008 is Karichal Chundan (chundan = snake boat.

Tourism in Alappuzha

Also known as the Venice of the East, Alappuzha is famous for its breathtaking backwaters and canals. Situated at the south western tip of the Vembanad Lake, Alappuzha is a small strip of land sandwiched between the Vembanad Lake and the Arabian Sea. The Nehru Trophy snake boat race held on the second Saturday of August (During Onam) every year, at the Punnamada Backwaters is a real feast for the eyes! Alappuzha is also a major centre producing coir products in Kerala. 

Kuttanad, the rice bowl of Kerala, is a little hamlet with unending stretches of paddy fields, small streams and canals lined by lush green coconut palms. The village was known from as early as the Sangam Age. History says that Alappuzha had trade relations with ancient Greece and Rome in the B.C years and in the Middle Ages. 

The vast expanse of lakes and canals has made the place a busy inland fishing port. Already one of the major tourism spots of Kerala, the place has greater scope for the lake side tourism which is a thriving business now.

Tourism in Ernakulam

Ernakulam, also referred to as Cochin, is called the Queen of the Arabian Sea. The commercial hub of Kerala, it is a fast growing city abuzz with industries, shopping malls, cinema houses, hotels and restaurants. Known for its Chinese fishing nets, churches, synagogues and the spectacular backwaters, Cochin is a developed city that has preserved its natural beauty. 

The town has three main parts- Fort Cochin, Willingdon Island and Ernakulam. Fort Cochin (Fort Kochi) occupies the Southern cape on the seaward side of the Bay. Willingdon Island is a man-made island which was created from the sand dug out from deepening the port. Across the causeway from Willingdon Island is Ernakulam. The Bolghatty Island, a long narrow peninsula, is situated at the opposite side of Ernakulam jetty. The Vypeen Island is situated beyond Bolghatty Island. 

Ernakulam (or Cochin) is located on the coast of the Arabian Sea with Allapuzha on the South, Idukki on the East and Thrissur on the North. The commercial capital and of Kerala, Ernakulam, is one of the finest natural harbours in the world which is a major centre of trade and commerce.

Tourism in Idukki

Craggy mountains, dense forests, and green hummocks and hillocks make up the landscape of Idukki- the largest district in Kerala, which covers nearly 13% of the state’s total area. The dams on the Periyar River, numerous trekking trails, waterfalls and several viewpoints make Idukki the perfect place for an exciting holiday. 

Much sought after for its wildlife treasures, tea plantations and a repository of rich spices, Idukki mesmerizes you with its beauty and discreet wilderness. Idukki owes its fertile soil to the three main rivers of the region - Periyar, Thalayar, Thodupuzhayar and their tributaries. 

The River Pamba also has it origin here. The wildlife here is similar to that of Thekkady. One can see wildlife in abundance near the Idukki Arch Dam. The Lake on the three sides of the sanctuary offers a panoramic view to the tourists.

Tourism in Kannur

Known for the export of coir, spices, sandalwood and wood to places as far as Sumatra and Arabia, from very early times, Kannur is home to a number of forts, shrines and esteemed institutions. The Venetian traveller Marco Polo has referred to Kannur as ‘a great emporium of spice trade’. 

The old name 'Cannanore' is the anglicised form of the Malayalam name Kannur. 'Kannur' is also said to be a derivation from Kanathur, an ancient village, the name of which survives even today in one of the wards of Kannur Municipality. 

This stretch of land, has been a melting pot of races, religions and cultures in every inch of its history. Relics, right from the Neolothic age through the Aryan invasion, Cheran Conquests, Arab and European inroads, stand testimony to this.

Tourism in Kasargod

Set on the banks of the Payaswini River, Kasargod has well preserved forts and other historic sites that have been witnesses to the region's illustrious past. The district is resplendent with its lush greenery; thanks to the 12 rivers coursing through it. Kasargod is also known for its coir products, hides, and handloom. The streets are dotted with glitzy shops that are mostly owned by Malayalis who have worked for long in the Middle East, that sell electronic goods and perfumes, textiles, snacks and other provisions. 

Lying on the northern most part of Kerala, Kasargod is a place that has several niceties to offer to the tourists. The enduring charm of its beach, the architectural wonder of the pilgrim centres and the unique folk art forms are some of the major attractions. 

The forts and palaces here symbolize the conquests they withstood against the invaders. Chandragiri and Bekal Fort are two forts you cannot afford to miss. The various mosques and temples here are examples of fine architecture.

Kollam

Kollam is where the world famous network of waterways begins. It is from here that a 130 km long chain of interlinked canals and lakes wind along Kerala. Lauded by Marco Polo and Ibn Batuta as the trade capital of the old world, Kollam is home to flourishing cashew processing and fisheries industries. The district, one of the most industrialized of the state, produces and processes products as diverse as coir, chemicals, ceramics, minerals and sea food. 

Kollam or Quilon, an old sea port town on the Arabian coast, stands on the Ashtamudi lake. The district of Kollam is a veritable Kerala in miniature, gifted with unique features such as sea, lakes, plains, mountains, rivers, streams, backwaters, forests, and vast green fields. 

Thirty percent of this district is covered by the renowned Asthamudi Lake. The eight hour boat trip between Kollam and Allappuzha is the best way to explore the backwaters. The district also has some interesting historic remnants and a number of temples built in the traditional ornate architectural style.

Tourism in Kozhikode

Kozhikode found its place in the world map when in 1498, Vasco Da Gama, the Portuguese explorer landed here on the Kappad Beach. Also known as Calicut, Kozhikode is a place that has historical sites galore. The ‘Jewel of the Malabar’ has Hindus, Muslims and Christians living in harmony, keeping their beliefs and traditions alive. 

A lush green countryside with serene beaches, historic sites, wildlife sanctuaries, rivers and hills make Kozhikode a popular destination. The district has three distinct regions - the sandy, the rocky highlands formed by the hilly portion of the Western Ghats and the Lateritic midlands. 

Of the total area of 2344 sq.kms., the sandy coastal belt comprises 362.85 sq.kms., the lateritic midlands occupy 1343.50 sq.kms and the rocky highlands cover 637.65 sq.kms. The district has a coastal length of about 80 kms. The highland region accounts for 26.80 per cent and the lowland region covers 15.55 per cent of the total area of the district.

Tourism in Kottayam

A town known for its rubber plantations, lakes, churches and its flourishing publishing industry, Kottayam is one of the most prosperous towns in Kerala. The alluring backwaters of Kumarakom have made it an ideal tourist destination. 

Panoramic backwaters, lush paddy fields, highlands, hummocks and hillocks, extensive rubber plantations, places associated with many legends and a literate people have given Kottayam district the sobriquet: The land of letters, legends, latex and lakes. Kottayam Town is the first town in India to have achieved 100% literacy (a remarkable feat achieved as early as in 1989). The first printing press in Kerala was established (CMS Press) here in 1821 by Rev.Benjamin Baily. 

The first college in the State (CMS College) was also started here in 1840. Maiden printed Malayalam-English and English-Malayalam Dictionaries were published from Kottayam in 1846 and 1847 respectively. The first and only Cooperative Society of writers, authors and publishers (SPCS), for publishing books and periodicals was set up here in 1945. Kottayam is the first town in India selected by the Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India, to be transformed as an Eco City.

Tourism in Malappuram

Flanked by the Nilgiris on the East and the Arabian Sea on the West, Malappuram is a district rich with evergreen forests, pristine valleys, meandering rivers and breathtaking beaches. Situated 50 km southeast of Kozhikode, Malappuram has four great rivers flowing through it, namely, the Chaliyar, the Kadalundi, the Thirurpuzha and the Bharathapuzha. 

The district that has a rich heritage has several examples of Indo-European architecture. This district was the venue for many of the Mappila revolts (uprisings against the British East India Company in Kerala) between 1792 and 1921. It was also a famous centre for Hindu - Vedic learning and Islamic philosophy. The temples and mosques of this district are well known for their spectacular festivals. Along with historic monuments and diverse natural attractions, Malappuram is also famous for its cultural and ritual arts. 

The region also has a network of inland waterways. The midland region is fertile with thick coconut groves while the hilly tract has dense forests and extensive teak plantations apart from the innumerable streams and rivers.

Tourism in Palakkad

Palakkad lies at the foot of the Western Ghats on the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border. Coimbatore is just 50 km away from Palakkad. The district known for its historical background has the remnants of the fort of Tipu Sultan. Lined with mountains, forests, rivulets and mountain streams, Palakkad is where you will find nature at its natural best. 

Palakkad is a land of palm trees and paddy fields. Rich in flora and fauna, Palakkad has probably the biggest mountain pass in the world (30-40 Kms) separating the two folds of the Western Ghats on the border of Kerala with Tamil Nadu. 

The soil is fertile and is favourable for agriculture. The district is even described as the granary of the state of Kerala. Palakkad also has many dams and irrigation projects such as Walayar, Malampuzha, Pothundy, and Parambikulam.

Tourism in Pathanamthitta

Three great rivers, the Pamba, the Achankovil and the Manimala, flowing through Pathanamthitta, lend the district, fertile soil, green canopies and a grandeur that must be seen to be believed. This land is also known for its elephants that roam free in the wilderness of the forests. The famous Aranmula Kannadi (Mirror) made of polished metal, is also an invention of this land. 

Extensive rubber plantations, stretches of forests, rivers and rural landscapes make Pathanamthitta a real treat for the eye. Paddy, tapioca, a wide variety of vegetables, spices like cardamom, pepper etc. are extensively cultivated here. 

Pathanamthitta is a combination of two words Pathanam and Thitta which mean an array of houses on the river side. This district was formed on 1st November 1982. Of the total area of 2642 sq. km. of this district, 1390.73 sq.km., come under forests.

Thiruvananthapuram Tourism

The capital city of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram also known as Trivandrum is known for its rolling low coastal hills and busy business alleys. The political nerve centre of Kerala it has several Central and State Government offices. It is also home to several prestigious educational, science, technology and research institutions such as Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, Technopark and the Indian Institute of Science, Education and Research (IISER). 

The city built on seven hills is named after the fabled serpent God 'Anantha' on whom Sri Anantha Padmanabhan (Lord Vishnu) reclines. The Sri Padmanabhaswamy temple here is 2000 years old. Thiruvananthapuram also known as Trivandrum, had trading links with the rest of the world from as early as 1000 BC. 

Thiruvananthapuram continues to be an important trading centre with several communication links to Maldives, Sri Lanka and countries to the West of the Arabian Sea. The city has numerous places of interest and offers all that a tourist seeks.

Thrissur Tourism

Also known as the cultural capital of Kerala, Thrissur is the land of the famous Thrissurpooram held during April-May. The much awaited festival attracts people from all over the world, enthralling them with the sight of 30 beautifully caparisoned elephants lined up in front of the majestic Vadakkumnathan Temple. A district that has kept alive its traditional art forms is also home to a number of pilgrimage centres. 

The term Thrissur is the abbreviated form of the original name Thrissivaperur which means the town of the sacred Shiva. Built on an elevated ground, at the apex of Thrissur Circle, is the famous Vadakkumnathan Temple. Thrissur was also known as Vrishabhadripuram and Ten Kailasam in the ancient days. 

Thrissur is a district rich in cultural heritage. The district can also claim to have played a significant part in fostering the trade relations between Kerala and the outside world in the ancient and medieval period.

Wayanad Tourism

Landscapes as diverse as savannahs, wooded hills and evergreen forests, all rolled into one place - Wayanad, make it a truly special destination. The district also has a history as interesting as its landscape. It is believed that human life existed here from as early as 4000 BC. The rock carvings and caves of Ambukuthimala substantiate this belief. Large plantations of tea, coffee and spices can be seen here. Lush green paddy fields, from which Wayanad has derived its name (Vayal meaning paddy fields and Naad meaning village) add to its magnificence. 

Located at a distance of about 76 kms from Kozhikode, Wayanad is a district that lies at a height of 700m to 2100m above sea level, on the northeastern part of the state. Wayanad is perhaps one of the biggest foreign exchange earners of the state, thanks to its cash crops such as pepper, cardamom, coffee, tea, spices and other condiments. A large percentage of the population in this region is tribal. The native Adivasis mainly consist of various sects like Paniyas, Kurumas, Adiyars, Kurichyas, Ooralis, Kattunaikkans, etc. 

Dominated by the Western Ghats, one of the world’s last surviving tracts of tropical biodiversity, Wayanad’s terrain is characterized by stretches of backwoods. Being more or less isolated from the rest of Kerala, the region has a distinctive character, all of its own.

Tourism in Kerala

Kerala, a state situated on the tropical Malabar Coast of southwestern India, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. Named as one of the ten paradises of the world by the National Geographic Traveler,^[1] Kerala is famous especially for its ecotourism initiatives.^[2] Its unique culture and traditions, coupled with its varied demography, has made Kerala one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Growing at a rate of 13.31%, the tourism industry is a major contributor to the state's economy.^[3]

Until the early 1980s, Kerala was a relatively unknown destination, with most tourism circuits concentrated around the north of the country. Aggressive marketing campaigns launched by the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation—the government agency that oversees tourism prospects of the state—laid the foundation for the growth of the tourism industry. In the decades that followed, Kerala Tourism was able to transform itself into one of the niche holiday destinations in India. The tag line Kerala- God's Own Country was adopted in its tourism promotions and became a global superbrand. Kerala is regarded as one of the destinations with the highest brand recall.^[4] In 2010, Kerala attracted 0.66 million foreign tourist arrivals.^[5]

Kerala is an established tourist destination for both Indians and non-Indians alike. Kerala is popular for her beaches, backwaters, mountain ranges and wildlife sanctuaries. The city of Kochi ranks first in the total number of international and domestic tourists in Kerala.^[6][7] Other popular attractions in the state include the beaches at Kovalam,Cherai and Varkala; backwater tourism and lake resorts around Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom and Alapuzha; hill stations and resorts at Munnar, Wayanad, Nelliampathi, Vagamon and Ponmudi; and national parks and wildlife sanctuaries at Periyar and Eravikulam National Park. The "backwaters" region—an extensive network of interlocking rivers, lakes, and canals that centre onAlleppey, Kumarakom, and Punnamada—also see heavy tourist traffic. Heritage sites, such as the Padmanabhapuram Palace, Hill Palace, Mattancherry Palace are also visited. The city of Kochiranks first in the total number of international and domestic tourist arrivals in Kerala.^[8]

The state's tourism agenda promotes ecologically sustained tourism, which focuses on the local culture, wilderness adventures, volunteering and personal growth of the local population. Efforts are taken to minimise the adverse effects of traditional tourism on the natural environment, and enhance the cultural integrity of local people.

Kerala Tourism

Kerala, located on the south-western tip of India, enjoys unique geographical features that have made it one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in Asia. Fondly referred to as ‘God’s Own Country’, Kerala was selected by the National Geographic Traveller as one of the 50 destinations of a lifetime and one of the thirteen paradises in the world.

An equable climate, serene beaches, tranquil stretches of backwaters, lush hill stations and exotic wildlife are the major attractions of this land.  A unique advantage of Kerala is that most of the destinations here are only a two - four hour drive from the other.

Classical art forms, colourful festivals, exotic cuisine are some of the cultural marvels that await travellers. Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine and Panchakarma, the rejuvenation therapy in Ayurveda have also helped Kerala to gain a pan-global reputation as a worth-visit destination.

Season never ends in Kerala, thanks to the year-long moderate climate and numerous festivals and events.