Kerala, known around the globe for its beaches, backwaters, forests, hill stations, and waterfalls, is a land of rich cultural and historic heritage. Since ancient times, the Malabar coast of Kerala has been one of the major links that have connected India to the rest of the world. Today’s Kerala is a land of diverse cultures, landscapes, and traditions and is renowned around the world as God's own country. Sandwiched between the Arabian Sea and the lush green Western Ghats Mountains, this strip of land is remarkable in all aspects. In this article, we are going to get an overview of Kerala’s 14 districts and what they are known for.
 

Thiruvananthapuram

Also known as Trivandrum, Thiruvananthapuram is the capital of the state of Kerala and is known for its temples, historic landmarks, and beaches. One of the most beautiful cities in Kerala, characterized by stunning buildings, Thiruvananthapuram is home to Padmanabhaswami Temple, the richest temple in the world. A business and education hub of modern Kerala, Trivandrum is also well known for its beach destinations, such as Kovalam and Varkala.

 

Kollam

Known for its cashew processing and trading industry today, Kollam was once home to one of the most famous ports on the ancient spice route—the legendary Muziris. Kollam has many historic landmarks, backwaters, beautiful beaches, and stunning destinations such as the Ashtamudi Lake and Palaruvi Waterfalls.

 

Pathanamthitta

Pathanamthitta, one of the most densely forested districts in Kerala, is mostly known for the famed Sabarimala temple, one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Kerala. Blessed with untouched mountain ranges, rivers, wildlife sanctuaries, and temples, Pathanamthitta is also well known for its unique handcrafted metal mirror called the AranmulaKannadi.

 

Alappuzha

One of the most popular tourist destinations in Kerala, Alappuzha is famously known as the Venice of the East, and the breathtaking views of the backwaters and intricate waterways of this district justify that nickname. Apart from the exquisite houseboat journeys in the backwaters, Alappuzha is also known for its handicrafts, coir industry, and a farming region named Kuttanad, known as the rice bowl of Kerala.

 

Kottayam

Known for its booming rubber and spice trade, Kottayam is home to some of the most picturesque lakes in Kerala, such as the Vembanad Lake. Rich with landmarks possessing great cultural and historic significance, Kottayam is also well known for its literary tradition.

 

Idukki

Extensive spice plantations, emerald green hills, rivers, and other wonders of nature make Idukki one of the most beautiful districts of Kerala. Munnar, Kerala’s most beloved hill station, is located in Idukki, as is Kerala’s most famous dam, the Idukki Arch Dam. Dense forests, numerous trekking trails, waterfalls, rivers, and mountains all make Idukki a sought-after tourist destination, but the forests are also home to some of the oldest tribes in Kerala.

 

Ernakulam

The commercial and economic capital of Kerala, Ernakulam, is known for its multicultural harmony and the historic city of Cochin. Kochi, formerly known as Cochin, used to be one of the major ports on the legendary spice route. Modern Kochi reflects its ancient heritage, colonial past, and vibrant present in its architecture, cuisines, and communal diversity.

 

Thrissur

Well known for the spirited festival known as pooram or Thrissur pooram, Thrissur is tagged as the cultural capital of Kerala. The Vadakkunnathan Temple and Athirapilly waterfalls are some of the most renowned destinations in this district. Thrissur is also home to some of the most famous institutions that promote traditional art forms of Kerala, such as the Kerala Kalamandalam.

 

Palakkad

Characterized by the extensive paddy fields and the significant gap known as the Palakkad gap in the western ghats, Palakkad is the granary of Kerala. Home to a unique culture and heritage that blends the neighbouring cultures of Tamil Nadu and Kerala, the Silent Valley National Park and Malampuzha Dam are some of the most notable landmarks of Palakkad.

 

Malappuram

Home to some of Kerala’s most historic monuments, Malappuram has a vibrant and extensive history. Known for its many temples and mosques as well as its cultural traditions, Malappuram has many unique art forms and diverse destinations with natural attractions to explore.

 

Kozhikode

The food capital of Kerala, Kozhikode, is a district with significant historical relevance. Also known as Calicut, Kozhikode has been a crucial trade centre since the medieval era, and it is where the Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama first landed. Known for its beautiful beaches, historic landmarks, and rich culinary heritage, Kozhikode is a vibrant district with many natural attractions.

 

Wayanad

Known for its unadulterated natural beauty, Wayand is blessed with densely forested hills, tea plantations, and thriving wildlife. One of the major tourist destinations in Kerala, Wayand’s misty hills are always attracting nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

 

Kannur

Tagged as the land of looms and lores, Kannur is well known for its folkloric and ritualistic art form known as Theyyam. Kannur is also home to some of the most unique temples where Theyyam and other ritualistic art forms are performed, as well as some historic landmarks and beaches.

 

Kasargod

The northernmost district of Kerala, Kasargod, is known for its stunning waterbodies and historic forts. Fostering a unique culture and diverse languages, Kasargod is blessed with natural attractions and some of the most majestic forts in Kerala, such as the Bakal Fort.

 

Learn Malayalam

Kerala is a diverse land with 14 districts that have their own unique quirks and attractions. But one common thing among them is the beautiful language known as Malayalam, spoken across the 14 districts of Kerala! Learn Malayalam with Akshharam Online Malayalam Learning School! Akshharam is one of the most unique Malayalam language learning platforms for children, with comprehensive and customizable learning modules to make learning Malayalam easy for everyone. Connect with us to learn more about our Malayalam language communication class online and enrol today.