Kerala stands out as an exceptional medical tourism destination, providing high-quality procedures and cutting-edge technology at significantly lower costs compared to other countries. With internationally-acclaimed hospitals and specialized doctors covering a wide range of disciplines, Kerala's medical tourism offers unmatched value. Moreover, the advantage of fluent English communication and elevated hygienic standards further enhances the appeal of this remarkable healthcare destination.
Until the early 1980s, Kerala was a relatively unknown destination, with most tourism circuits concentrated around the
north of the country. Aggressive marketing campaigns launched by the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation—the
government agency that oversees tourism prospects of the state—laid the foundation for the growth of the tourism
industry. In the decades that followed, Kerala Tourism was able to transform itself into one of the niche holiday
destinations in India. The tag line Kerala – God's Own Country was adopted in its tourism promotions and became a global
super brand. Kerala is regarded as one of the destinations with the highest brand recall. In 2010, Kerala attracted
660,000 foreign tourist arrivals.
Kerala is a popular destination for both domestic as well as foreign tourists. Kerala is well known for its beaches,
backwaters in Alappuzha and Kollam, mountain ranges and wildlife sanctuaries. Other popular attractions in the state
include the beaches at Kovalam, Muzhappilangad, Bekal and Kappad; backwater tourism and lake resorts around Ashtamudi
Lake, Kollam; hill stations and resorts at Munnar, Wayanad, Nelliampathi, Vagamon and Ponmudi; and national parks and
wildlife sanctuaries at Wayanad, Periyar, Parambikulam, Silent Valley National Park and Eravikulam National Park. The
"backwaters" region—an extensive network of interlocking rivers, lakes, and canals that centre on Vembanad Lake, also
see heavy tourist traffic. Heritage sites, such as the Padmanabhapuram Palace, Hill Palace, and Mattancherry Palace, are
also visited.