The southern Indian state of Kerala has emerged as one of the most sought after tourist destinations in Asia thanks to its unique geographical features and an equable climate.

Serene beaches, tranquil stretches of emerald backwaters, lush hill stations and exotic wildlife are among the beauties of nature that attract tourists in scores to “God’s own country” year after year.

Enchanting art forms, magical festivals and heritage sites make Kerala a traveler’s paradise. Kerala appeals to tourists for a number of other reasons as well — hospitable and highly literate people and world-class health care systems, and the state is the cleanest in the country.

Even centuries before the arrival of Europeans, Kerala had travel, trade and economic relations with the Middle East. Arabs were the first foreigners to know about the rich spice source of Kerala. Historic records reveal that Arab traders visited Kerala for spices, teakwood, ivory and other valuable goods in the early centuries. Spices such as pepper, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and sandalwood were largely exported from the spice centers in Kochi to Arab nations.

Tourists from the UAE are among the highest spending travelers abroad from the Gulf with majority of its population in the higher income group. They normally go on holiday in the harsh summer season when the mercury soars above 50 degree Celsius. Unlike the previously favored destinations in the West, the new Arab travelers now prefer to spend their holidays in Asia, India being one of the chosen destinations.

“After Saudi Arabia, the UAE is one of the biggest markets for outbound tourists in the Gulf region. We want to invite travelers from the UAE to Kerala’s world renowned tourism destinations,” said Kerala Tourism Minister A.P. Anil Kumar. “Kerala and the Gulf countries have enjoyed historical and traditional ties. Kerala is a natural destination for tourists from the Gulf.” he added.

The Gulf region recorded more than 9 million outbound tourists in 2011 and the figure is likely to touch 35 million by 2020. The UAE has emerged to be a major market for Kerala Tourism in the last two years. In 2010, 15,684 tourists from the UAE visited Kerala. The figure crossed 15,000 in 2011 as well registering a steady flow of tourists both the years.

“We are looking forward to a spurt in foreign tourist arrivals in Kerala in the coming years. Gulf is a very important market for us because there is a lot of scope for Arab tourists to come to Kerala,” said Suman Billa, Kerala Tourism secretary.

Tourists from world over visit the state to soak in a variety of exclusive experiences. Ayurveda, backwaters, houseboats and hill stations are on top of their list. Hailed as the land of Ayurveda, Kerala offers authentic Ayurvedic treatment for both cure and rejuvenation. Monsoon season is the perfect time to undergo Ayurvedic rejuvenation therapies. The backwaters in Kerala are another major tourist attraction. Boat trips across these scintillating water stretches are an experience unique to Kerala. Large kettuvalloms have been converted into luxury boats for these trips. Kerala has a long chain of lush hill stations that are home to exotic wildlife. All the hill resorts in Kerala offer magical experience of nature in its virgin beauty.

Kerala’s monsoon tourism and Ayurveda are already drawing a number of travelers from Gulf. Health and wellness holidays are a major segment of outbound travel from Arab nations, a factor Kerala Tourism is keen to leverage in its favor.