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Kerala the narrow fertile strip on the south
west coast of India, is sandwitched between the Lakshadweep sea
and the Western Ghats. The Western Ghats, with their dense forests
and extensive ridges, have sheltered Kerala from many mainland invaders,
and the long coastline encouraged maritime contact with the outside
world, resulting in an intriguing blend of cultures.
The state's sheltered location has allowed
many distinctive customs, art forms and festivals to thrive. Kerala's
biggest cultural celebration is the harvest festival Onam, when
the state celebrates the golden age of mythical King Mahabali for
four days in late August or early September. It includes elephant
processions, cultural programmes, boat races for the public and
feasts and floral decorations- mainly floral carpet- in the home.
Kerala offers beautiful beaches, trips through
peaceful lagoons and canals, hill stations, wild life sanctuaries
and complex cultural customs. With a high literacy rate and a tolerant
folk, Kerala shows a much gentler and more relaxed side of India.
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