The New York Times has released the list of 52 places to visit this year, and Kerala, ‘God’s own country’ is included, adding further praise to the southern state’s tourism.
An honor
It ranked 13th in the list, and the publication lauds the ‘Responsible tourism’ initiatives of Kerala Tourism.
The state is also the only Indian state to rank on the global list, which also included places such as London and Morioka, Japan.
Kerala made it to the list thanks to its beaches, backwater lagoons, cuisine, and rich cultural traditions like the “Vaikathashtami” festival.
The New York Times lavished praise on Kerala government’s award-winning strategy, which allows tourists to experience village life.
Special mention: Kumarakom
The paper also made special mention of destinations like Kumarakam and Maravanthuruth.
Kumarakom is a small village in Kerala famous for its scenic backwaters.
Visitors can engage in various engaging activities there such as weaving ropes from coconut fibre, paddling through canals, and climbing a palm tree.
Special mention: Maravanthuruthu
In Maravanthuruthu, tourists can enjoy village street art and traditional temple dance among other fun events, the report underlined.
Asides from the Indian entry, other places that made it to the list are London, Japan’s Morioka, Kilmartin Glen in Scotland, Auckland in New Zealand, Palm Springs in California, the Kangaroo Island of Australia, Vjosa River in Albania, and Tromso in Norway.
Honored last year as well
Kerala was mentioned last year by another esteemed publication, the Time Magazine among 50 extraordinary destinations to explore in its list of “World’s Greatest Places of 2022”.
“Kerala is one of India’s most beautiful states. With spectacular beaches and lush backwaters, temples, and palaces, it’s known as “God’s own country” for good reason.” the report had said.
