| Vital Statistics |
| Location |
South West tip of India |
Size |
15000 sq. miles (360 miles long
& upto 75 miles wide) |
| Climate |
Tropical (Temp. 750 F to 890 F) |
Rainfall |
300 cms. avg. - Monsoon - June to October |
| Language |
Malayalam & English widely spoken |
Literacy |
More than 90% |
| Religion |
58% Hindus 21% Christian 21% Muslim |
Time |
GMT + 5.30 hrs. |
About Kerala
With the Arabian sea on the west, the western ghats towering 500 - 2700
mts. on the east and networked by 44 rivers, man made canals, and many large
water bodies, Kerala enjoys unique geographical, cultural and social features
that have made it one of the most sought after destinations in Asia, or,
for that matter, in the world.
All of Kerala’s charming destinations ie, beaches, backwaters, hill
stations and wild life are only a few hours drive from each other. Added
to this, is the fact that Kerala is India’s most advanced society
and a true masterpiece of diversity. No where else would one find people
of the three greatest religions living in such harmony. Little wonder then,
that Kerala is called the ‘Mount Everest of Social Development’.
Ever wondered why Kerala was chosen as one of the ‘50 Places of a
Life Time’ by the National Geographic traveller? It is definitely
because of both the place and the people. To quote Bill Makibben in the
National Geographic traveller 50 Places of a Life Time “...that engagement
with the world is one of the best things about the place. Keralites meet
you on more or less equal terms, with neither the subservience nor the rage
you’ll find in much of third world.”
About the backwaters
The centuries old backwaters of Kerala refer to the network of many rivers,
canals and natural water bodies that crisscross the narrow coastal belt
of Kerala. Unlike the hills, beaches and wild life which are found in other
parts of the world, the backwaters here are a unique feature to Kerala because
of the vibrant community life along the banks, which is throbbing with its
own unique culture.
Hence the many features of Kerala’s backwaters that make it stand
out are :- the community life on its banks, the reclaimed farms, the network
of canals and rivers, the flora and fauna, the indigenous methods of fishing,
the handmade country boats which are works of art, the versatile coir fibre
and finally the cuisine.
All this makes Kerala and its backwaters a destination of distinction and
character, indeed something special.
Set in the midst of this natural and cultural splendour is Philipkutty’s
Farm - a bonus.
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