Kerala Travel Guide: Unlocking the secrets of Ayurveda and Backwaters

I was in class three when I first heard about Kerala, a state located in the southwest corner of India, which is undoubtedly one of the best states in India for tourism and economic development. I distinctly recall how enthusiastically my childhood friend Dhanya would describe the tranquillity of her native state in tooti footi Hinglish. At that time, there was no internet, so she was my walking-talking Kerala Travel Guide. She would go on and on about palm-lined Kerala Backwaters, tea gardens, foggy hills, teak forests, virgin beaches, and cultural heritage. I’d eagerly wait for her to return from her annual summer break. We would huddle up to listen to her Achamma and Achachan stories while enjoying Kerala’s special Banana chips, Murukku, Pakkavada, Achappam, and other yummy snacks. At that time, I never thought my childhood curiosity would eventually become a full-blown eternal romance with “God’s Own Country.”

Coincidentally, the iconic tagline for Kerala Tourism was coined in 1989. Today, labelling it merely a slogan would be incorrect. It marked a turning point in India’s tourism history—when a state looked inward and chose to embrace its roots rather than imitate Western models, offering travellers an experience that was refreshingly authentic and unique. That vision put Kerala on the global tourism map and continues to inspire its enduring appeal as one of the world’s top destinations.

Since the 1990s, I’ve been to Kerala countless times. Still, my love for India’s magical, laid-back southwesternmost state grows deeper every time I visit it. While I can endlessly talk about how magical the state is or how there are so many things to do in Kerala, let me not get carried away. Let’s focus on just two things today – Backwaters and Ayurveda.

What is the importance of Backwaters and Ayurveda in Kerala?

Ayurveda and Kerala’s backwaters are the twin pillars of the state. They are closely integrated with the economy and culture of the state. Backwaters offer their inhabitants transportation, fishing, and tourism opportunities; Ayurveda, a traditional healing system, is a core part of Kerala’s identity and a major draw for international and domestic tourists seeking holistic wellness. Therefore, it is unsurprising that even British royalty, King Charles, has holidayed in Kerala.

My Ayurvedic Escape to Kerala Backwaters

When I arrived in Kochi from New Delhi, I thought I’d return with a photo gallery full of beautiful memories. However, I returned with something more profound: peace, healing, and a deeper connection to myself. As a digital nomad constantly travelling and living out of suitcases, I was tired of hopping from one place to another and was unknowingly craving a pause. Kerala gave me that pause and helped me slow down, offering a breather to step back, take a bird’s-eye view of my life, and rest my priorities.

Arrival in Kochi: Gateway to God’s Own Country

As my plane began descending into Kochi, I could see the change in the landscape. The parched brownish terrain gave way to a sea of green consisting of tropical vegetation, rice fields, and coconut trees, which seemed to have been plucked from a painting. When I arrived, I couldn’t help but be struck by how progressive the state is—Kochi Airport is the world’s first solar-powered airport. That was my first realisation: Kerala isn’t just beautiful; it’s mindful.

Once I reached my hotel, instead of wasting my day cocooned in my hotel, I opted to explore the city, famously known as the “Queen of the Arabian Sea”. Thanks to its location on the west coast of India, Kochi, earlier known as Cochin, has been an important spice trade centre from the 14th century until now. Its cultural fabric has been shaped by explorers and traders worldwide, and that diversity is clearly evident in its architecture, food, and people. Stepping out into the sea breeze of Fort Kochi, the blend of fish markets, Portuguese-style architecture, spice shops, and slow-moving tuk-tuks seemed nostalgic yet exotic. I felt calm when sipping Kulaki Sharbat on the beach, looking at centuries-old Chinese fishing nets, and chatting with friendly locals. In the evening, I attended a highly engaging and immersive dance performance at the Kathakali Center in Fort Kochi, which has been nurturing and showcasing Ancient Arts and Culture since 1994. For three days, I relished Kochi’s coastal food and colonial vibes.

But my real transformative journey began on the fourth day when I drove towards Kumarakom—the heart of Kerala’s backwaters. Kumarakom is a small village located in the Kottayam district of Kerala. Despite its small size, it is world-famous for its scenic backwaters and Vembanad Lake.

What are Kerala backwaters?

While many people have heard of the Kerala backwaters, not everyone knows why they are called “backwaters.” Essentially, they are an interconnected ecosystem of lagoons, lakes, canals, and estuaries formed by sea waves and currents that have created sandbars or natural barriers at river mouths over millions of years. These backwaters are a mix of freshwater from rivers and saltwater from the coast. Running parallel to the Arabian Sea coast in Kerala, they are one of the top attractions in Kerala.

There are many places to experience the Kerala backwaters, including Alleppey, Kochi, Kumarakom, Cherai Island, Kottayam, Kozhikode, and Kuttanad. I decided to experience them at Kumarakom. The best way to experience Kerala’s backwaters is in a traditional Kerala-style houseboat. The experience is enhanced by freshly prepared Kerala’s coastal cuisine and cold coconut water. You can go on a day excursion or stay on the boat overnight. Alternatively, like me, instead of staying full-time on a houseboat, you can stay at a backwater resort or homestay and go on a short houseboat sailing. Usually, many luxury resorts and hotels either own houseboats or partner with third-party houseboat operators, offering overnight and sunset cruises. 

Kumarakom: The Backwaters Heaven on Earth

Around 9 am, I took leave of Kochi and set off for the two-hour ride to Kumarakom. Roads narrowed, and the fishy smell of Kochi turned into a sweet, earthy breeze. Coconut palms gracefully swayed back and forth like nature’s metronomes right up to where the horizon seemed to be.

My resort, Kumarakom Lake Resort, was on the shore of Vembanad Lake, the longest freshwater lake in India. I was welcomed by friendly staff, refreshing coconut water, and a cold hand towel. As I checked into my room, the vibe of the resort made me feel that the next few days were going to be quite memorable. My luxury villa with a private alcove opened right onto the 250-meter-long meandering pool.

Around 5 p.m., I took a traditional Kerala houseboat to enjoy the sunset from the balmy waters of Vembanad Lake. My houseboat was very comfortable and had all the modern facilities one could ask for—a bedroom with an attached bathroom and shower, a kitchen, a lounge, a sun deck, and eco-friendly cane and bamboo furniture. I even had a butler who cooked several delicious meals on the houseboat, including an Onam Sadhya.

The molten gold and red ball of the sun began to set lower into the horizon, creating long shadows on the rippling waters of the lake. The sky turned into a painter’s palette—blazing oranges, purple blues, and blazing reds bleeding one into another, reflected to perfection on the glassy water below. The emerald green waters of Vembanad Lake, serene and motionless in the afternoon, were now dancing like a romantic Kathakali dancer. The waves began swaying our boat more intensely than ever before. I doubted if I was on a sea or a lake for a while. But our boat captain allayed my fears that everything was fine.

Coconut palm trees stood tall along the bank, gently swaying in the warm air as birds returned home in graceful V-formations. It was all so picture-perfect that it felt less like watching a sunset and more like being a part of a cinematic masterpiece. It was nature’s way of demonstrating how goodbyes can be so enchanting. The golden hour over Kerala’s backwaters was among the best sunsets I have ever witnessed.

Ayurveda: Healing in God’s Own Country

After a stunning sunset, it was time to experience another speciality of Kerala—Ayurveda. This ancient system of medicine originated in India more than 3,000 years ago and has become very famous worldwide for aligning the well-being of mind, body, and soul. And, the best place to experience it is Kerala.

Kerala is called the “Ayurveda capital of India” because it is deeply ingrained in the culture, and the state is known for its Ayurvedic hospitals and treatments. While other states such as Uttarakhand and Maharashtra also have prominent Ayurveda institutions, Kerala’s Ayurveda is distinctive due to its long monsoon season and the practice being closely tied to everyday life, but it’s not officially the only capital.

As per the BBC article, the southern state of Kerala has more than 100 Ayurvedic government-run hospitals, 800 Ayurvedic pharmaceutical factories and 800 Ayurvedic medicine dispensaries. Not just that, there are more than 120-holiday resorts and private wellness centres offering specialised massage treatments by highly skilled therapists.

As I mentioned before, I was fatigued by nonstop travel and was looking for a pause to rejuvenate myself. Kerala’s Ayurvedic treatments helped me take that pause, detox, and recharge myself for future challenges. Upon my arrival in Kumarakom, I signed up for a two-day detox and relaxation program.

An Ayurvedic physician did a thorough check-up, identified my dosha (body type) and then tailored the treatment according to my requirements. My treatment consisted of Abhyanga (warm oil full-body massage) and Shirodhara (stream of medicated oil flowing on the forehead). In Abhiyanga, two highly qualified therapists massaged my entire body, from scalp to feet, with warm oil infused with medicinal herbs. Their four hands effortlessly moved in a rhythmic motion, improving my blood circulation, relieving pain and stiffness, and helping me de-stress. The treatment lasted for 90 minutes. After which, I took a herbal bath. Even though I could still feel the oil in my hair, my body felt feather-light and relaxed.

The next day, I experienced Shirodhara, in which a continuous stream of lukewarm medicated oil fell over my forehead for 30 minutes. After that, two therapists gave me a gentle body massage. Both treatments helped reduce my stress and anxiety. Along with the treatments, I was also given recommendations to improve my gut health by eating ayurvedically balanced meals.

Now, looking back on the treatments, I can confidently vouch that they were not only physical but spiritual. I felt lighter, healthier, and better than ever before. My skin glowed, and my mind became clear. Ayurveda was not only a treatment but a reboot button for my hyperactive and stressful life.

Conclusion: How Kerala Healed My Body and Soul

A week in Kerala was definitely not a holiday but a much-needed break to find my balance back in life. I returned rejuvenated as a person from ‘God’s Own Country.’ Be it a digital detox, reconnection with Mother Nature, or just a visit to a place that speaks to your soul. I would highly recommend Kerala for Soul Therapy. Trust me. You may go for the backwaters, but you won’t leave without the healing Kerala has stored for you.

Kerala Travel Guide: Frequently Asked Questions about Kerala

What is the best time to visit Kerala?

October to March is the best time, with a good climate and verdant surroundings. The monsoon months (June to September) are the most favourable for Ayurvedic treatments.

How many days are enough for Kerala?

Kerala might be small in size, but there are tons of things to do there, so even months would be less to experience it deeply. But if you are constrained by time, a week should be enough to explore two to three popular attractions of Kerala, like Kochi, Munnar, and the Backwaters.

How can I get to Kumarakom from Kochi?

The journey by cab or private vehicle takes approximately 2 hours from the Kochi International Airport. Budget travellers can also use KSRTC buses.

What is Kerala famous for?

Kerala is famous for its backwaters, houseboats, Ayurvedic massages, tea gardens, spices, and cultural heritage, including Kathakali and Mohiniyattam dances.

Is it safe to try Ayurveda if I’ve never done it before?

Yes, Kerala’s Ayurvedic centres are highly regulated. Only go to a certified facility with a trained Ayurvedic doctor.

What should I pack for a Kerala trip?

Cotton clothes, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, a refillable water bottle, and flip-flops. If you’re practising Ayurveda, don’t use heavy perfumes and cosmetics.

How to plan a trip to Kerala?

Although I’m always here to answer any questions you have about a trip to Kerala, I believe the Kerala Tourism website is a treasure trove itself. I often use it to get ideas to plan my trip. Moreover, you can now Chat with Maya to get personalised travel planning.

Further Reading

Kumarakom Backwaters in Kerala – why it should be on your bucket list

Best Things to Do in Kochi in 2 days

Exploring the unexplored backwaters of Kerala