Some Basic Facts and Information on Kerala

Kerala is a beautiful state located on the southern tip of India and state covers an area of around 38,863 km2 and has 32,802,812 inhabitants. With a population density of 844 inhabitants per km2, the state is one of the most densely populated regions of India. The capital of Kerala is Thiruvananthapuram and Malayalam is the main language spoken by over 95% of the population, and English is widely spoken as the language of business and education. In addition, Tamil, Tulu and Konkani are spoken by some minority.

Climate and geography
Kerala is a fertile coastal strip on the western steep slope of the Ghats and has large forests and high-altitude, large protected areas with rich wild animal stock, and popular beaches to offer. The backwaters of Kerala are yet another major attraction which adds more to its beauty. The climate of Kerala also remains moderate and also experiences heavy monsoon rains from the month of June to September. In other words, the climate of Kerala is tropical, and this state is subject to only minor fluctuations in temperature. The southwest monsoon is generally an early June to October and brings abundant rainfall. Almost all the annual rainfall, which is 5,000 mm 1,250 mm in the lowlands and in the mountains, falls during this time. From October to November there will be no rains but will experience a higher humidity rate.

Economy
Kerala's economy is mainly based on agriculture and fishing and the main crops are coconuts (45% of India's total harvest), rice, rubber, cashew nuts, tea, coffee and cocoa. Kerala is also well known for its wealth of spices, especially pepper, cardamom etc and most of these products are processed or exported directly. The industrial sector is relatively weak in Kerala and is essentially limited to the processing of agricultural products and the textile industry. The resident textile industry mainly produces cotton yarn & fabrics, knitwear and woollens. In metropolitan city of Kochi in Ernakulum, there are other industries such as the chemical and IT industry.

The service sector is in contrast to be more developed in Kerala and this area generates around three quarters of the gross domestic product. Especially the tourism in Kerala is becoming increasingly important as its contribution to GDP is currently above 6%.

Tourism
Kerala has become one of the most popular tourist destinations of India and is visited by a large number of local as well as foreign visitors. Due to its amazing landscape and natural beauty, Kerala is also called as "God's Own Country" and this slogan is well used to boot its tourism industry.

The warm tropical climate, miles of sandy beaches, backwaters, waterfalls and wildlife sanctuaries with their large wildlife attract tourists from all over the world.

Kerala also offers a mix of different cultures, which is especially noticed in the ancient port city of Kochi. One of the major highlights that depicts Kerala's culture is the Padmanabhapuram Palace near Thiruvananthapuram, which is one of the most famous sights of the region. Kathakali, a popular form of dance drama from Kerala is one of the major art form and is considered with great cultural interest.

Overall speaking Kerala is something that you need to explore in depth if you are visiting India and it is highly recommended to visit this amazing place to gain more knowledge and insight about Kerala, its culture, climate and other aspects.