| Kerala is considered one of the most beautiful states | | | | travelling in India, and have heard plenty of horror |
| in India. It is also very laid-back, with travel through | | | | stories. Most of these just don't apply in peaceful |
| this region certainly more relaxing and stress-free | | | | Kerala - there is far less hassle here, and the pace of |
| than in other parts of the country. In fact, Kerala is | | | | life is slower. This chilled-out state is the ideal place to |
| the perfect introduction to travel in India. Whether | | | | adjust to Indian life before moving on to other parts |
| you are looking to get a taste of India on a short | | | | of the country - you'll be much better prepared for |
| trip, or want to explore the country on a longer trip, | | | | the more hectic parts of India. |
| Kerala is the perfect place to start. | | | | 3) Keralan people are friendly - The locals here are |
| Kerala is blessed with gorgeous scenery - it's a lush, | | | | wonderfully laid-back, kind and welcoming. They are |
| green landscape of swaying palm and coconut trees, | | | | more likely to ask you about your family than try to |
| rice paddy fields, huge stretches of river and long | | | | sell you anything. People will always be willing to help |
| golden beaches. The huge diversity of attractions is | | | | you find the right bus or recommend a place to eat. |
| another big draw for visitors. In a week-long trip you | | | | It also helps that English is commonly spoken |
| could float on a luxurious houseboat in the tranquil | | | | throughout the region (the state is very proud of its |
| backwaters; sunbathe on a tropical beach; spot | | | | 91% literacy). |
| elephants in Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary; practise yoga | | | | 4) Great weather - Most visitors to India come during |
| in an ashram; and hike in the cool mountains and tea | | | | the winter (November-February) to avoid the |
| plantations. | | | | monsoon and the steamy summer temperatures. |
| So why is Kerala a better place to start exploring | | | | What most tourists don't realise is that it can get |
| India than other parts of the country? | | | | very cold in Northern India at this time, especially at |
| 1) It is easy to travel around - Kerala is one of India's | | | | night, with temperatures dropping below freezing. |
| smallest states, making up only 1% of the country's | | | | This isn't a problem in the tropical Southern states, |
| total landmass. Its compact size is a definite bonus, | | | | where the weather never gets cold. Kerala's winter |
| as travelling around is much easier. Attractions are | | | | features guaranteed sun and 28 degree celsius (82 |
| never too far apart (no 24 hour train journeys here!) | | | | degrees Fahrenheit) temperatures. If you prefer |
| and with such beautiful scenery to enjoy, the | | | | cooler weather you can always escape to the |
| journey is part of the fun. Even if you don't fancy | | | | spring-like hills, only a few hours away. |
| braving the local buses and trains (although they are | | | | The compact, relaxed, friendly and warm state of |
| recommended for the more adventurous traveller), | | | | Kerala is the perfect destination to begin your India |
| you can hire your own car and driver inexpensively. | | | | travels. |
| 2) It is very relaxed - Many people are worried about | | | | |