Kerala

Kerala is the Malayalam state, one of a total of 28 in India. It is located to the southwest of India. Neighboring states are Karnataka to the north and Tamil Nadu to the south and east. To the west is the Arabian Sea. The state capital is Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum). Some of the other major cities are Kerala are Kochi (Cochin), Kozhikode (Calicut), Kannur (Cannanore), Thrissur, Malappuram and Kollam. Malayalam is the language of Kerala.

Kerala has unique geographical features. The beaches are serene, the climate is mild all year long, and there are tranquil backwaters to be explored. An advantage for the traveler is that the drive time between the points of interest is brief – approximately two to four hours apart. As a result, Kerala is one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in Asia. National Geographic Traveller selected Kerala as one of the 50 “destinations of a lifetime” and one of the “thirteen paradises in the world.” http://www.keralatourism.org/

There are fourteen wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala. There are hiking trails easily accessible in the sanctuaries, and visitors are treated to the aroma of the spices that grow there naturally - cardamom, vanilla and pepper - and the fresh scent of growing tea and coffee plants.http://www.keralatourism.org/destination/wildlife/

Alappuzha Beach - Located in the southern part of Kerala, Alappuzha Beach has been referred to as "the Venice of the East." Visitors are treated to boat races, lovely beaches, historical marine products, and enjoyable picnic spots.http://www.keralatourism.org/destination/beaches/alappuzha-beach-161.php

Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary - This sanctuary covers 77 square kilometers. It is primarily forest land. While visiting, you may see elephants, tigers, snakes, myna birds, and many more species of exotic animals. The site lists 17 different creatures frequently seen there.http://www.keralatourism.org/destination/wildlife/the-idukki-wildlife-sanctuary-289.php

Nilambur - The primary attraction in Nilambur is teak. The city hosts the well-known Teak Museum. It is considered to be the first of its kind in the world, and the only one in India. The museum houses historical treasures, and touts the scientific and aesthetic features of teak.