Kerala’s Culinary Delights Featured in Lonely Planet’s Top 25 Travel Experiences for 2026

Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala’s rich and diverse culinary heritage has been spotted in Lonely Planet’s prestigious list of the 25 Best Travel Experiences for 2026. The list, known for highlighting unique global experiences, specifically mentions Kerala’s exceptional and varied food offerings, ranging from the traditional sadhya to its seafood specialities.

Notably, Kerala is the only Indian state to be included in this global list. Kerala's culinary delights, which have gained popularity worldwide, are seen as a major draw for international travellers. Tourists often visit Kerala not only for its scenic beauty but also to savour its authentic, regionally diverse cuisine.

The Lonely Planet article highlights a wide range of iconic Kerala dishes, with the sadhya, traditionally served on banana leaves, taking centre stage. The elaborate meal includes rice, avial, thoran, sambhar, rasam, pickles, papadam, and payasam, among others. Also featured are local favourites like appam with egg curry, pathiri, duck curry, chicken curry, pork fry, kallummakkaya (mussels), and the much-loved pazham pori (banana fritters). The article encourages travelers to experience the authentic taste of Kerala’s traditional home-cooked meals, which reflect the state’s rich cultural history.

Courtesy: The New Indian Express

Kerala’s food culture is shaped by its unique geography, abundant natural resources, and centuries-old culinary traditions. The blend of aromatic spices and locally sourced ingredients gives Kerala’s food a distinct edge, making it stand out among other regional cuisines. Traditional cooking techniques, often passed down through generations, continue to define the state’s culinary identity. One of the highlights is fish cooked in banana leaves, paired with South Indian filter coffee — a combination that has become synonymous with Kerala’s food culture.

The article also emphasises the regional diversity of Kerala’s cuisine. From the Moplah cuisine of North Malabar to the coconut and rice-based dishes of the southern regions, each part of Kerala offers a unique culinary experience. Kochi, in particular, is mentioned as one of the most inspiring destinations in the world, known for its blend of culture, history, and food.

Kerala’s tourism minister, P.A. Mohammed Riyas, expressed the pride in the state’s recognition, saying that this global acknowledgement reflects the growing appreciation of Kerala’s rich food heritage. He added that the inclusion of Kerala in the top 25 travel experiences of 2026 is a proud moment for the state, positioning it as a leading destination for food enthusiasts worldwide.

With its diverse culinary offerings now recognised on the global stage, Kerala continues to attract food lovers from around the world, cementing its place as a culinary paradise.