KERALA – THE LAND, PEOPLE & CULTURE
The state of Kerala lies at the Southwest tip of India wedged between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats (mountains). It has earned the reputation of being one of the most beautiful states in South India and is a popular tourist destination, famous for its breath-taking natural beauty, with its kaleidoscope of pristine beaches, lush vegetation, gentle backwaters, swaying palms and paddies fields, waterfalls and wildlife sanctuaries.
The coastal region of Kerala attracted foreign traders from Asia and Europe from ancient times and its long history of spice trade can be traced back to the 3rd millennium. Cinnamon, cardamom, pepper, cloves, ginger, and nutmeg were some of the spices in great demand in Europe and Asia. The foreigners who continued trade relations with Kerala, over the centuries also influenced the religious diversity which is prominent, even today.