Summary
Are you contemplating a winter holiday in the subcontinent? Continue reading as two writers advocate for their favored South Indian state.
As you approach India’s southern tip, temperatures soar, beaches expand, and the cuisine becomes increasingly spicy—prompting a decision regarding your ideal location for relaxation.
Consider spending an extended period in two of South India’s most enchanting states, Goa and Kerala. However, if you were required to select one, which would it be? In order to offer insight, we enlisted two writers to present their respective arguments for each destination. A memorable winter getaway awaits.
Go to Goa
A dedicated Goenkar (Goan) who has spent the majority of her life in the state, Joanna Lobo aims to share the unique aspects of her home, highlighting its beauty beyond the popular narratives.
In 2020, as the coronavirus pandemic confined many Indians to their homes, individuals sought refuge in an appealing and serene environment that offered both comfort and beauty. Their destination of choice? Goa, which emerged as a favored retreat post-pandemic.
While travelers typically visit Kerala for vacations, many take a journey to Goa in search of a new home.
This small state serves as a comprehensive destination, appealing to a diverse array of travelers long before 2020. Couples frequent these shores for romantic getaways; families seek quality time together; young adults embark on quick retreats free from adult supervision; and singles organize bachelor or bachelorette parties. Across India, the phrase, “Goa chalte hain” (meaning “let us go to Goa”) is a prevalent slogan for those planning a getaway.
Good things often arrive in compact forms. Consequently, despite its smaller size compared to Kerala, Goa offers a wealth of attractions. It is a destination that honors tradition while embracing modernity. The Portuguese colonial influence over 451 years has endowed it with a distinct European ambiance reflected in its cuisine, architecture, fashion, and music.
The highlights of Goa are so extensive that they could fill an epic tale. (Consider this a brief preview.) Discover rich history and architectural grace at the heritage site of Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa, where the remains of St. Francis Xavier are enshrined. Goa’s temples are architecturally impressive, paralleled by its forts, including Fort Aguada. At Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary and Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, one can observe the state’s tropical biodiversity in action. The museums provide diversion as well, such as the boat-shaped Houses of Goa. Marvel at the stunning milky-white Dudhsagar Falls, the second-highest waterfall in India. Furthermore, the miles of world-renowned beaches provide soft sands, clear waters, and gentle waves suitable for novice surfers.
North Goa is known for its flea markets, nightlife, and gaming establishments, whereas South Goa presents a more traditional atmosphere with tranquil beaches and largely untouched wilderness.
The culinary scene in Goa distinguishes the state as a gastronomic powerhouse. The flavors here are unique compared to other regions of India: Goa has skillfully integrated the best of Portuguese cuisine into its own. The curries are rich and complex, bread is treated with reverence, and desserts are indulgent without being overly saccharine. The quintessential meal consists of fish, curry, and rice, ideally enjoyed at local thali eateries. Recently, the food culture has flourished, bolstered by a vibrant cocktail scene. While the locals in Kerala cultivate cashews for their nuts, Goans craft spirits such as feni and urrak from cashew juice.
The allure of Goa’s attractions fuels creativity among content creators. This explains why many influencers flock to document #OffbeatGoa experiences. You may recount stories (or create visual content) about Goa’s motorcycle taxis, the translucent oyster-shell windows of traditional homes, or the unusual festivals where individuals are ceremonially buried. Another fascinating aspect is the village that submerges underwater each year, only to re-emerge in summer.
The Danish embrace hygge, yet Goa embodies susegaad. It represents a state of tranquility and fulfillment unique to this region.
What could possibly rival such a destination?
Keep to Kerala
Luke Waterson spent an entire month traversing the state of Kerala, enjoying its tranquil atmosphere from Ayurvedic retreats along the coast to tea tastings on Munnar’s picturesque plantations.
The narrative of this leader in backwater boating adventures, center of Ayurvedic healing, and powerhouse in South Indian tea production is truly captivating. Compared to Goa’s appealing yet familiar beach resorts, Kerala enchants visitors with experiences that are genuinely one of a kind.
Kerala is rich in rituals—this characteristic is what resonates with me the most. The breathtaking dance form of kathakali, where performers illustrate Hindu folklore in stunning costumes, is indigenous to this region. This state is also the birthplace of Ayurveda, one of the world’s oldest and most recognized holistic healing traditions. Southern Kerala is dotted with Ayurveda retreats where individuals can undergo revitalizing treatments, adhere to a plant-based diet, and enjoy the simple pleasure of relaxation in tranquil settings. The Ayurvedic philosophy has also cemented Kerala’s reputation as perhaps the most vegetarian-friendly destination globally. Moreover, Kerala hosts festivals of such extravagance as Onam, featuring parades of decorated elephants, colorful floats, kathakali performances, and elaborate flower displays.
Choose Goa for a festive atmosphere; however, come to Kerala to broaden your cultural horizons.
Kerala epitomizes the essence of the term “backwater.” The intricate network of channels, lakes, and inlets that comprise the Kerala backwaters spread from Alappuzha, covering approximately 1000km (621 miles). This remarkable wetland ecosystem features an intriguing combination of fresh and brackish water, supporting an extensive range of species. Navigating through these waterways in a houseboat—observing turtles, verdant rice paddies, and the idyllic lifestyle of local villages—is an essential highlight of any journey in India.
Equally striking—albeit in a more mountainous context—are the regions surrounding Munnar, where rolling hills are adorned with some of South India’s most significant tea plantations. High above Munnar, the national parks of Eravikulam, Anamudi Shola, and Pampadum Shola (notably, Goa possesses only one national park) safeguard expansive areas of high-altitude grassland encircled by tropical shola forests that harbor many endangered species, including Nilgiri tahr (wild goats), Nilgiri martens, leopards, and tigers.
Additional attractions—some lesser-known internationally—illustrate more of Kerala’s distinct character: the petroglyph-inscribed Edakkal Caves, as well as the mountain-surrounded Thirunelly Temple, recognized as one of the subcontinent’s ancient temples. For those, however, who seek pristine sandy beaches, the state presents an abundance of options: visit Varkala, located near Thiruvananthapuram (noted for its nearby Ayurvedic wellness centers) or the tranquil Marari Beach. Most importantly, Kerala represents a lush and vibrant sanctuary where tranquility can be attained, offering a respite that is seldom found elsewhere in India.
Kerala encompasses a diversity of landscapes and character that party-centric Goa simply cannot provide. Consequently, I wish to share a cherished memory that encapsulates why this state should be your next travel destination.
After leaving the coastline north of Alappuzha, I vividly remember arriving at a homestay just as the last rays of sunlight faded, spotting a weathered old boat docked at the edge of the water and spontaneously deciding to paddle through the shaded lagoon now cloaked in evening shadows. Just around a bend, a scenic stretch of sandy beach edged by swaying palms came into view. Unlike Goa’s carefully manicured beaches, this one felt naturally raw—but it was alive with local residents engaged in yoga, all basking in the warm glow of the setting sun.
This moment perfectly encapsulated the Kerala experience.
