Until the early 1980s, Kerala was a relatively unknown destination, but since then tourism has increased dramatically, and Kerala is now among the most popular tourist destinations in India. Popular attractions include the sandy beaches dotted along the 580 km (360 mi) coastline; the hill stations in the Western Ghats rising on an average to 1,500 m elevation above sea level with certain peaks reaching 2,500 m; the national parks and wildlife sanctuaries; the "backwaters" region; and the heritage sites.
Kovalam beach near the capital city Thiruvananthapuram, was among the first beaches in Kerala to attract tourists. Other popular beaches include Varkala, Alappuzha, Nattika, Vadanappilly, Cherai, Kappad, and Marari beaches.
The "Backwaters" are a chain of brackish lagoons and lakes lying parallel to the Arabian Sea, known as the Malabar Coast. The backwater network includes five large lakes linked by 1500 km (940 mi) of canals, both man made and natural, fed by 38 rivers flowing down from the Western Ghats range. The action of waves and shore currents has created low barrier islands across many of the rivers. Houseboats in the backwaters are one of the prominent tourist attractions in Kerala. Alleppey, known as the "Venice of the East" has a large network of canals that meander through the city, and is a major tourist spot. Kollam, Kumarakom and Punnamada also see heavy tourist traffic.
Kerala is notable for its flora, much of it concentrated and protected in the Agasthyamamai Biosphere Reserve in the eastern hills. Almost a fourth of India's 10,000 plants are found in Kerala, and many of these nowhere else. Also Kerala's fauna are notable for their diversity, among them are such mammals as Indian Elephant, Bengal Tigers and Indian Leopard, which can be seen at Periyar and Eravikulam National Parks.
Kerala has a wet and maritime tropical climate, with 120-140 rainy days per year. In eastern Kerala the climate is drier. In summers most of Kerala will see gale force winds and cyclone-related torrential downpours. The best time to visit are during the winter months.
Kerala has three major airports at Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi and Kozhikode, that links it with the rest of the nation and the world.
