Kerala is also known as “God’s Own Country.” It is as much a land of diversity as the rest of India. Though the population residing in the state is predominantly Hindu, one cannot fail to see Christians, Muslims, and even Jews. All have an influence in this state that prides itself as being the most literate state of India. As is visible demographically, so it is the same culturally. One can see the amalgam of all these religions in Kerala. If you add to this the scenic beauty and the backwaters found there, Kerala makes a perfect tourist destination for having a holistic and unique experience. This unique experience can be yours by choosing from among the many Kerala tour packages available today.
The Land of Temples
The Hindu influence in Kerala is reflected in the number of temples that are famous in “God’s Own Country.” Padmanabhaswamy temple, located in the center of Thiruvananthapuram, the capital of Kerala, is one of such famous temples. It features Lord Vishnu in Anantha Sayanam posture, the posture of yogic sleep on the serpent Anantha, floating through the shoreless cosmic ocean. It is truly a sight to behold. The devotees have to follow a strict dress code to enter this temple and only Hindus are allowed entry, but many sight-seers come to see its beauty from the outside.
Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple is another well-known temple, situated at Ambalappuzha in the Alapuzha district of Kerala. The idol of Krishna at this temple is likened to Parthasarthi, which means the charioteer, and also “guide,” metaphorically, of Arjun who was also known as “Parth.” Other lesser known temples are Vadakkunnathan temple in the city of Thrissur, Vaikom Mahadeva temple at Vaikom, and many others.
People with religious or spiritual mind can be sure to visit these temples and behold the beauty of the Gopuram style of temple making, which is famous among the Dravidians. Kerala Tour Packages have all these destinations on their recommended list for those who wish to visit them.
The Land of Secularism
Kerala holds much more for those who aren’t looking to confine themselves within a single religion. Santa Cruz Basilica is a site not to be missed. Located in Kochi, this church is one of the finest and most impressive Christian churches of India.
There is also Cheraman Juma Masjid, located in Thrissur district. This was the first mosque built in India by Malik Ibn Dinar in 629 A.D. Many non-Muslims come to visit this masjid.
Also behold the Paradesi Synagogue in Kochi, the first Jewish synagogue of Commonwealth. It was built by the Jewish Community in Kerala.
Kerala might be the only place where so many different religions have interesting and historical sites available for tourists to explore. And the Kerala tour packages encourage one to include them on their journey. Kerala tour packages, with the right choices, can be just the thing for you.
