Which State Is Called God’s Own Country?

God's Own Country: India is full of wonderful diversity, and many of its states have unique nicknames that evoke their charm. Kerala lies on India’s southwestern coast and is known for its stunning beauty, tranquil backwaters, verdant landscape and rich culture. The phrase captures the idea that God’s own country reflects the divine relationship with nature, harmony and tradition.

Why is Kerala known as God’s Own Country?

‘God's Own Country’ was first introduced in a successful tourism campaign in the 1980s by Walter Mendez, a creative director with Kerala Tourism. The purpose of the campaign was to promote the natural and cultural richness of Kerala. Following the advent of tourism, the term became widely used and evoked strong feelings and meaning in both domestic and international travellers. While it originated from marketing, the nickname became representative of what Kerala truly stands for, which is an overall collaboration of nature, spirituality, and humanity. With misty mountains, endless coconut groves, quiet backwaters and vibrant festivals, Kerala does feel like a country created by the divine hands.

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The Unique Characteristics of Kerala

Kerala stands out not only for its landscapes but also for its peaceful social atmosphere and progressive achievements. The state enjoys high literacy rates, advanced healthcare, and a deep-rooted sense of cultural pride. Its backwaters offer a one-of-a-kind experience where narrow canals, lakes, and lagoons connect picturesque villages, while hill stations like Munnar captivate visitors with tea plantations and cool breezes. Wildlife sanctuaries, spice plantations, traditional houseboats, and long stretches of golden beaches all contribute to the appeal. Alongside nature, Kerala is a place where ancient traditions like Ayurveda are still practised widely, drawing wellness seekers from around the world.

Read More: What State Is Called the Spice Garden of India?

Which Is The Famous Dance Form Of Kerala?

The most famous classical dance form of Kerala is Kathakali. It's a highly stylized dance-drama known for its elaborate and colorful make-up, unique costumes, detailed gestures (mudras), and expressive facial movements. Kathakali performances typically dramatize stories from Indian epics like the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and the Puranas.

Most Beautiful Places to visit in Kerala 

Alleppey: This is Kerala's famous ‘Venice of the East’. Imagine endless calm canals, lakes, and lagoons, all lined with tall green palm trees and rice fields. The best part is taking a slow ride on a houseboat – you sleep on the water and see local life pass by. It's incredibly peaceful and unique.

Munnar: Up in the mountains, Munnar is a cool escape. Picture soft, rolling hills completely covered in bright green tea bushes, often wrapped in gentle mist. There are also pretty waterfalls and amazing viewpoints. You can visit a tea factory to see how tea is made and taste fresh tea.

Wayanad: This area is a true "Green Paradise" with thick, wild forests, clear lakes, and deep valleys. It's perfect if you love nature and want to explore. You can hike through jungles, visit ancient caves with carvings, and see wild animals in their natural home.

Thekkady: This spot is all about nature and adventure. It's home to a big wildlife park where you can take a boat ride on a lake and often spot wild elephants, deer, and many birds. The area is also famous for its spice farms, where you can walk through plantations of cardamom, cinnamon, and pepper.

Kochi: Known as the "Queen of the Arabian Sea", Kochi is a charming old port city. It has a rich history, seen in its beautiful old buildings from different colonial times. You'll see the famous Chinese fishing nets on the water, explore narrow lanes in old town areas, and can even watch a lively Kathakali dance show.

What does God’s Own Country mean?

The phrase means a place that is so beautiful, idyllic and peaceful that it appears to be specially blessed or, rather, created by a supreme being. In Kerala’s case, this refers to its natural features, beauty, culture, traditions, spirituality and hospitality. 

What is the slogan of Kerala?

The slogan for Kerala is “God’s Own Country”, and it remains Kerala’s identity in global tourism, widely accepted around the world as a cultural symbol of Kerala.

Interesting Facts About Kerala

• Kerala has the highest literacy rate among all Indian states.
• It is one of the best destinations for Ayurvedic treatments in the world.
• The backwaters of Kerala stretch over 900 km, forming a unique ecosystem.
• Kerala is home to the oldest synagogue in the Commonwealth, located in Kochi.
• The state has over 44 rivers and more than 30 waterfalls.
• Kerala was the first Indian state to receive rainfall from the southwest monsoon each year.

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