Culture defines the character of people which can be portrayed from their language, way of life, religion, gastronomy, tradition, music and arts. Kerala being the paradise of India has its unique and distinctive identity. Its tradition and customary practices have been influenced by innumerable dynasties which ruled the place. So, why not visit the beautiful state and know the landscape closely for being familiar to its way of life, tradition and culture.

Although the culture of Kerala can be known from its music, temples, forts, festivals, rituals, beliefs, tradition, way of living, dialects and customary home-stays, but dances of ‘God’s Own Country’ plays a chief role in the lifestyle of Keralites.

Some of the key dances of ‘Spice City of the World’ are as follows:

Kathakali: The 300 years ancient classical dance has received its international fame from the combinations of various dances and art forms like masque, ballet, pantomime and opera. It also constitutes of performing arts forms e.g. Kalarippayattu, Kootiyattam and Krishna- nattam.

Kolukali: It is a type of folk art carried out basically by agrarian classes. The beautiful rhythmic dance is performed by pleasant management of clapping of sticks and tapping of feet.

Koothu: This is a passionate art form played by female of Chakkiar or Nangiars community. It is basically a solo dance drama based on the mythology of Krishna. The art is interpreted & sung with the help of dance and mime.

Kootiyattam: It is a traditional dance acted out in temples and is the antique old ancestor of Kathakali. The literal meaning of this dance is ‘acting together’ and is the olden classical dramatic art form of ‘land of backwaters’.

Krishnanattom: This striking art for is easily understandable by both simple pastoral and the scholars. It is a performance that comprises of colorful makeup and big masks on face made of cloth padding and light wood used by some characters.

Mohiniyattom: It is a religious presentation which is elegant & flexible and is a tradition operated since ages. The chronicle of this feat originated from the time when man adored supernatural powers. Every village had its copse which was considered blessed and supposed to be the residence of the goddesses who are regarded as guardian.

Thiruathirakkal: The amazing dance is presented by women to attain eternal marital happiness on the day of Thiruvathira that falls in Dhanu (December-January) as per Malayalam calendar. It is a ritual and a part of art conducted by joint families Nair community.

Tholpavakoothu: This striking dance literally means 'leather puppet play' and is an act which is conducted yearly in the temples of Kaali and is based on Kamba Ramayana.

Velakali: It is an impressive martial art dance played by Nair warriors in some religious shrines of Southern Kerala with wooden shields and swords. The artists get dressed in customary attires and multicolored headgears like medieval Nair soldiers.

Cultural & Heritage Tours to Kerala offers an excellent opportunity to know the tradition and lifestyle of ‘The Land of Coconuts’ for closely enjoying the splendid vacations.