KERALA : STATIC STATE GK
STATE MAP
- Capital: Thiruvananthapuram
- Formation: November 1, 1956
- Chief Minister: Pinarayi Vijayan
- Governor: Arif Mohammed Khan
- Area: 38,863 square kilometers
- Population: Over 34 million (as per the last census in 2011)
- Density: Approximately 859 persons per square kilometer
- Official Language: Malayalam
- Major Rivers: Periyar, Bharathapuzha, Pamba
- Highest Point: Anamudi (2,695 meters)
- Official Animal: Indian Elephant
- Official Bird: Great Indian Hornbill
- Official Tree: Coconut
- God’s Own Country: Kerala is often referred to as “God’s Own Country” due to its scenic beauty and cultural richness.
- Backwaters: The state is famous for its serene backwaters, especially in Alleppey and Kumarakom.
- Ayurveda: Kerala is a major hub for traditional Ayurvedic medicine, attracting health tourists from around the world.
- Muziris Heritage Project: A project aimed at showcasing and preserving the rich cultural heritage of the ancient port of Muziris.
- Kathakali Dance: A traditional dance form known for its elaborate costumes, makeup, and expressive movements.
- Kerala Cuisine: Famous for dishes like Appam, Puttu, Idiyappam, and the traditional Sadhya served during festivals.
- Western Ghats: Kerala is home to a significant portion of the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Periyar National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary: A renowned wildlife sanctuary known for its biodiversity and Periyar Lake.
- Kerala Kalamandalam: An institution dedicated to the preservation and promotion of classical arts like Kathakali and Mohiniyattam.
- Kozhikode (Calicut): Known for its historical significance, it was the first European trading post in India.
- Malabar Rebellion: A historic uprising against British rule in the Malabar region in 1921.
- Malayalam Cinema: Kerala has a vibrant film industry, producing critically acclaimed movies and winning national awards.
- Kerala Blasters FC: A popular football team representing the state in the Indian Super League (ISL).
- Lakshadweep Islands: Although administratively separate, Lakshadweep is closely associated with Kerala and is its only island territory.
- Thrissur Pooram: One of the largest and most colorful temple festivals in Kerala, held in Thrissur.
- Arabian Sea: Kerala’s western border is along the Arabian Sea, providing the state with a long coastline.
- Wayanad: A picturesque hill station known for its lush greenery, wildlife, and the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi: Promoting performing arts like music, dance, and theater in the state.
- Kerala Folklore Museum: Located in Kochi, it showcases the traditional art and culture of Kerala.
- Kovalam Beach: A popular beach destination known for its crescent-shaped coastline and lighthouse.
- Thiruvananthapuram Zoo: One of the oldest zoos in India, home to a variety of exotic animals.
- Kerala State Science and Technology Museum: Located in Thiruvananthapuram, it promotes scientific knowledge and innovation.
- Vembanad: The longest lake in India, it is a major part of the Kerala backwaters.
- Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC): The state-owned bus service connecting various parts of Kerala and neighboring states.
- Kalolsavam: An annual youth festival showcasing the cultural and artistic talents of school students in Kerala.
- Kerala Sahitya Akademi: Promoting Malayalam literature and recognizing outstanding literary works.
- St. Angelo Fort, Kannur: A historic fort built by the Portuguese, offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea.
- Kerala State Chalachitra Academy: Organizing the Kerala State Film Awards and promoting film culture in the state.
- Padmanabhaswamy Temple: A prominent Hindu temple in Thiruvananthapuram known for its intricate architecture.
- Kochi Metro: A rapid transit system serving the city of Kochi, enhancing urban transportation.
- Mattancherry Palace: Also known as the Dutch Palace, it showcases Kerala murals and artifacts.
- Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (KVASU): Focused on education, research, and extension activities in veterinary and animal sciences.
- Marari Beach: A serene beach in Alappuzha, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle.
- Kerala State Biodiversity Board: Working towards the conservation and sustainable use of biological diversity.
- Kerala Kite Festival: An annual event where enthusiasts from around the world gather to showcase unique kites.
- Kerala Water Authority (KWA): Responsible for the management and distribution of water resources in the state.
- Vayalar Award: A prestigious literary award instituted in memory of the poet and lyricist Vayalar Ramavarma.
Aranmula Boat Race: Held during the Onam festival, it is one of the oldest traditional boat races in Kerala, featuring snake boat races.
Kerala Forest Research Institute (KFRI): Engaged in research and conservation efforts related to the rich biodiversity of Kerala’s forests.
Varkala Beach: Known for its unique cliffs, mineral springs, and a natural water spout believed to have medicinal properties.
Kerala Agricultural University (KAU): Dedicated to agricultural research, education, and extension services in the state.
Pulikali (Tiger Dance): A vibrant and colorful folk art form performed during Onam, where artists paint themselves as tigers.
Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary: A biodiversity hotspot known for its rich flora and fauna, including the elusive lion-tailed macaque.
Kerala Folklore Academy: Promoting and preserving the diverse folk traditions, art forms, and cultural heritage of Kerala.
Payasam: A traditional Kerala dessert made with rice, milk, jaggery, and sometimes coconut, served during festivals.
Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB): Focused on mobilizing funds for critical infrastructure development projects in the state.
Poothotta Dam: An irrigation dam and reservoir near Kochi, providing scenic views and a tranquil environment.
Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM): Supporting and promoting startup ventures, innovation, and entrepreneurship in Kerala.
Meenmutty Falls: A spectacular waterfall near Kalpetta in Wayanad, surrounded by lush greenery and trekking trails.
Kerala Sasthra Sahithya Parishad (KSSP): A science and literature organization promoting scientific awareness and rational thinking.
Pacha Kuthira (Green Horse): A traditional folk dance performed during temple festivals, symbolizing the sacred green horse.
Kerala Cartoon Academy: Fostering the art of cartooning and providing a platform for cartoonists in the state.
Kozhikode Halwa: A popular sweet dish with a unique taste and texture, made with ingredients like ghee, coconut, and jaggery.
Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary: An urban bird sanctuary in Kochi, providing a habitat for various bird species.
Kerala Institute of Local Administration (KILA): Training and capacity-building institution for local governance bodies in Kerala.
Kanakakkunnu Palace: A historic palace in Thiruvananthapuram, now used for cultural events and exhibitions.
Pakshipathalam: A trekker’s paradise in Wayanad, known for its diverse flora, fauna, and caves.
Kerala State Remote Sensing and Environment Centre (KSREC): Utilizing remote sensing technology for environmental monitoring and planning.
Kerala State Handloom Development Corporation: Promoting handloom products and supporting traditional weavers in the state.
Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary: A haven for birdwatchers, located at the estuary of the Kadalundi River.
Azhikkal Port: A major port in Kannur, contributing to the state’s maritime activities and trade.
Napier Museum: Located in Thiruvananthapuram, it houses a rare collection of archaeological and historic artifacts.
Kerala State Co-operative Bank (KSCB): Providing financial services and support to the co-operative sector in Kerala.
Ayyappan Kavu: Sacred groves dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, preserving biodiversity and ecological balance.
Maveli Express: A popular train connecting Kerala to Tamil Nadu, named after the legendary King Mahabali.
Kerala Forest Development Corporation (KFDC): Involved in sustainable forest management, timber processing, and eco-tourism.
Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary: A protected area known for its diverse flora, fauna, and the Chimmony Dam.
Kerala State Handicapped Persons Welfare Corporation: Dedicated to the welfare and empowerment of differently-abled individuals.
Keralam Museum: An interactive museum in Kochi, showcasing the history, culture, and heritage of Kerala.
Kerala Sangeetha Nadaka Academy: Promoting and preserving the classical music and dance traditions of Kerala.
Vallarpadam Basilica: A historic church in Kochi, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, attracting pilgrims.
Kerala State Bamboo Corporation: Promoting bamboo cultivation and developing bamboo-based products.
Karikode Maruthwamala: A sacred grove in Pathanamthitta, known for its medicinal plants and biodiversity.
Kerala State Council for Science, Technology & Environment (KSCSTE): Facilitating scientific research and technological advancements.
Malabar Gold & Diamonds: A prominent jewelry retail chain headquartered in Kerala, with a global presence.
Adoor Gajamela: An annual elephant pageant held during the Adoor Thirunalla festival, showcasing adorned elephants.
Kerala Agricultural Development Finance Corporation (KADFAC): Providing financial assistance to farmers for agricultural development.