Blessed with naturally picturesque locales, Kerala truly deserves the name, "God's own country". Kerala’s tourism is enriched with its natural beauty that draws tourists from all over the world. Along with this, is Kerala’s rich cultural heritage that dates back to times immemorial. Influenced by Dravidian heritage, Kerala culture is still unique and proudly preserved amongst all households of Kerala.

However, it has been heavily influenced by many other civilizations like those of the Chera, Chola, and the Pandya cultures. There were other influences, which arrived in Kerala across international boundaries because of its vital geographical position. The culture of Kerala is also revealed in its varied music, dance forms, martial arts and cuisines.

Music : Music plays an extremely important role in the development of the culture of Kerala. The main form of music practiced in the state includes the Carnatic classical music, which is common to almost all Dravidian civilisations. Over the centuries in Kerala many more music forms have evolved which includes Panchavadayam, Nadanpattu, Omanathinkal and others.

Dance Forms : Kathakali, a 300-year-old dance form developed exclusively in Kerala combining the performing art forms of opera, ballet, masque, and pantomime. Kathakali is a beautiful blending of colour, dance, music, drama, and expressions. Others include :

• Krishnanattom
• Mohiniyattom
• Thullal
• Koodiyattom
• Kolkkali
• Thiruvathirakali
• Kakkarishi Natakom
• Oppanna
• Chavittunatakom

Martial Art : Kerala excels in the marital art form known as Kalaripayattu. It is the comprehensive system regarded as the oldest and most scientific in the world. Even the famous martial art form of Kung Fu is believed to have originated from Kerala’s ancient martial art form Kalaripayattu. Other forms include :

• Parisa Kali
• Velakanni
• Valeru
• Kunderu
• NjaninmelKali
• Folk dances include
• Theyyam : Known for its fearsome masks and the performer’s trance like state
• Thiruvathirakali : A graceful dance by women during Onam
• Kaikotikalli : A dance performed by women to celebrate a wedding

Cuisine : Kerala travel guide also suggests tasting varieties of pancakes and steamed rice cake made from pounded rice. Seafood specialties are the mussles. For Christians, Ishtew with Appam is a must for every marriage reception. Kerala has its own fermented beverages, the famous being Kallu (Toddy) and Pattacharayam (arrack). This Arrack is usually consumed with pickles and boiled eggs.

Thus, Kerala is an intellect state in India, perfect for adaptation and fusion of old traditions with new values in any sphere, be it music, dance forms, martial arts and cuisine. The present culture of Kerala is the outcome of the unique process of cultural blend and social integration.