🇮🇳 Why French Travelers Love Kerala – Backwaters & Beaches Guide 🇫🇷

Kerala, on India’s southwestern coast, enchants visitors with its lush green landscapes, tranquil backwaters, sun-kissed beaches, and authentic local culture. For French tourists seeking a slow, nature-connected, and culturally immersive Indian experience, Kerala is a dream come true.

🛶 1. Backwaters – The Soul of Kerala

The backwaters are a network of serene canals, rivers, and lakes fringed by palm trees and dotted with villages.

🌟 Best Backwater Experiences:

• Alleppey (Alappuzha): Rent a houseboat (kettuvallam) for a day or overnight stay with local meals and stunning views.

• Kumarakom: Quieter than Alleppey, ideal for couples or nature lovers.

• Ashtamudi & Kollam: Lesser-known, perfect for off-the-beaten-track backwater exploration.

📝 Tip for French travelers: Book a premium or deluxe houseboat with a private chef and air-conditioning during hotter months.

🏖️ 2. Kerala’s Best Beaches

📍 Varkala Beach

A French favorite! Set against red cliffs, Varkala offers yoga retreats, ayurvedic spas, cafes, and amazing sunsets.

📍 Kovalam Beach

A blend of calm waters and vibrant beachside life. Ideal for swimming, relaxing, and spa treatments.

📍 Marari Beach

Near Alleppey – serene, clean, and less touristy. Great for peaceful getaways.

🌊 Note: Most French tourists prefer Kerala’s less-commercial beach vibe over Goa’s party scene.

🧘 3. Wellness & Ayurveda Retreats

Kerala is India’s capital of Ayurveda and holistic healing. French travelers often visit for:

• 7- to 21-day Ayurveda detox programs

• Daily yoga and meditation classes

• Panchakarma therapies for body-mind renewal

Top Wellness Destinations:

• Somatheeram Ayurveda Resort (Kovalam)

• Ayurveda Yoga Villa (Wayanad)

🍛 4. Cuisine – A Flavourful Journey

Kerala food is light, spiced with coconut, curry leaves, and mustard seeds.
Must-Try for French Tourists:

• Appam with stew

• Kerala fish curry

• Sadya (banana leaf feast)

• Fresh seafood on the beach

🛬 How to Reach Kerala from France?

• Direct Entry via Kochi (COK) or Trivandrum (TRV) via Middle Eastern or Indian carriers (1 stop from Paris CDG)

• Popular route: Paris → Doha/Abu Dhabi/Dubai → Kochi

🏨 Where to Stay?

French travelers often prefer:

• Eco-resorts or boutique hotels near the backwaters/beaches

• Homestays for cultural immersion

• Luxury Ayurveda resorts for health-focused holidays