Kerala is known as the land of spices. Truly so, for just one visit to God’s Own Country and you immediately feel the aroma of the amazing spices in the air! Such is the flavor of this divine land!
It is said that since at least the last 5,000 years, the region has been one of the world’s most prominent spice exporters. The ancient trade port of Musiri was once the capital of spice trade in the region. In fact, even in the present time, the production of pepper alone is so great that it features significantly in India’s total national production output.
One of the most significant amongst the spices of Kerala is pepper, fondly called the King of all Spices. The spice is cultivated in both the highlands as well as low-lying areas and is famed for its numerous uses in medicine. Pepper, in the ancient times, was considered a rare spice; so rare that many believe it cost more than gold itself! Kerala, it is said, even had spice trade with the Roman Empire!
The Queen of all spices is cardamom, though. It is said that India’s cardamom is the best in the world and a significant production of this spice comes from the state of Kerala. In the Kozhikode, Trivandrum, Kollam and other regions of Kerala is grown clove, known the world over for its characteristic flavor and aroma.
As famous as Kerala’s spices is its local cuisine, which, as expected, makes extensive use of the local spices and flavors. Take the medicinal spice-herb of cinnamon for example. Alternatively, consider Ginger and Turmeric. While the former is used throughout the world in numerous cuisines and dishes, the latter is an important medicinal element that removes toxins from the body. South India’s deliciously mouth-watering Chutneys, the amazing flavor rich concoctions, have Tamarind as an essential component thanks to its sweet and tangy taste.
Last but not the least, Nutmeg and Curry leaves too are important spices known for their incredible aroma. So there you have it: Kerala’s spices are unparalleled in their variety, taste, aroma, flavor and charm. Who needs anything else when Kerala spices are on and in the menu?
Our tour in Kerala takes us from Kochi to Thekkady, where we stay for three whole days in the beautiful organic farms of the region. The spice plantations enchant visitors with their rich aroma that can be felt in the air, everywhere!
Kumily spice plantations are amongst the biggest and the most beautiful. The right climate combined with the right altitude enables Kumily to be the ideal place for spice plantation. It is a sheer delight walking through the fields laden with little flowers of Cardamom in full bloom.
A major portion of Kerala’s Cardamom production comes from the Kumily plantations. We even get to know the techniques of spice plantation, cultivation, and processing- the arts that make these spices so charismatic and out-of-the-world!
We witness the hard-working farmers drying and peeling Cinnamon, and even observe them hand-pollinating Vanilla.
The Spices of Kerala truly stand out amongst all others, making this land one of the most important destinations for food and spice enthusiasts, or even casual travelers who wish to explore something new and completely different. Something so rich it stimulates all 5 senses! Such is the beauty, splendor, and aroma, of Kerala. If you wish to take a stroll along Kerala’s spice plantations and witness their beauty, there is no better way than joining the fantastic tour organized by 5 senses tours, which takes you through the region’s rich organic farms.
Leave a Reply