Spirituality is a broad concept with room for many perspectives. Spirituality does not mean any particular practice. It is a certain way of being. In general, it includes a sense of connection to something bigger than humans and it typically involves a search for meaning in life. As such, it is a universal human experience—something that touches all humans. People may describe a spiritual experience as sacred or transcendent. Traditionally, spirituality is referred to a religious process of re-formation which "aims to recover the original shape of man”, oriented at "the image of God" as exemplified by the founders and sacred texts of the religions. However, religion and spirituality are not the same thing, nor are they entirely distinct from one another. One can practice it even if he/she is not religious.
Kerala is a leading spiritual home of India. Kerala’s spiritual consciousness is beyond faith and religious distinctions and it is a state where one community has willingly given space to another. The Christian community here is one of the oldest not only in India, but anywhere in the world. The first mosque to be built in India is in Kerala and it was constructed by Arab merchants in the Seventh Century, during the lifetime of the Prophet. Kerala also has a rich Jewish heritage.
Almost everyone Kerala have been adhering to the spiritual way of life and they have high faith in the God. Since majority of the people are followers or Hindu religion followers, there are many renowned temples in Kerala. From Hindu temples and ashrams (monasteries), churches and mosques to Jain temples, synagogues and Buddhist monasteries, there are numerous pilgrim centres and religious institutions spread across the state.
For details of temples, churches, mosques, ashrams etc. visit:
Kerala is recognized as the "Land of Spices" due to its relation and trade with many countries. Kerala cuisine is related to its history, geography, demography and culture. It offers a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes prepared with fish, chicken, lamb and beaf. Popular vegetarian and non-vegetarian foods are shown below.
