Travel Tips

Eat Kerala cuisine varies with the regions. The southernmost parts serve the most traditional sadya (or so they believe). Central Kerala cuisine is enriched with non-vegetarian dishes of all kinds. In Northern Kerala cuisine, you can see the influence of Arabian cuisine on the food. Sea food is available all over. In regions bordering the backwaters and lakes, traditional cuisine includes fresh-water fish. Food in Kerala tends to include a variety of spices and there are a few fiery dishes.

Drink Water is usually safe to drink, but mineral water is available at almost all shops and is the safest bet. Fruit juices, tender coconut water, coffee and tea are available in even the smallest towns. Kerala tops in per capita alcohol consumption in India, despite the high rate of government taxation. You'll find a bar in most hotels serving anything from local toddy to Scotch Whisky. Alcohol consumption in public is not advisable. Locally made toddy is tempting to try, but be aware that you could fall seriously sick due to bad brews. If you do try it, make sure you stick to the license-made brew only.

Religion Kerala is one of the places where multiple religions exist in great harmony. This is achieved by one respecting the customs and rituals of other religions. In some Hindu temples, non-Hindus are not allowed enter the shrines. Also for male visitors at many places inside a temple, dress code is traditional mundu without a shirt. At a Muslim mosque females have some restrictions. At Christian churches usually men sit to the left of the aisle and women to the right. Some of the more traditional churches don't even have pews...you'll have to stand. The synagogue at Kochi is not open to non-Jews on Saturdays.

Safety Kerala has its share of criminals. Pick pockets are quite common. Don't trust your hotel cleaning staff with your costly belongings. Also women are advised not to walk in skimpy clothes like bikinis. It also isn't safe for a woman to walk alone in the night. Use bottled water and stay in decent hotels even if you have to shell out some extra money.