Water, canoes, sunset … It is a fascinating scene that occurs in Kerala every day. Located in southwestern India, the region is a watery paradise with a long history, splendid culture and harmonious lifestyle with nature.

"Kerala has one of the most attractive sceneries in India. No matter what you seek in a tourist destination, Kerala has everything to offer," said Naveen Srivastava, the Consul General of India in Shanghai, during a roadshow recently held in Shanghai for Chinese and Indian travel agencies.

G. Kamala Vardhana Rao, Kerala tourism secretary, gave the roadshow audience a general introduction to Kerala, describing the region's unique Great Backwaters as "water colored by God."

Beaches, forests and hillside plantations are also worth visiting in Kerala, Rao said, along with five national parks and 16 wildlife reserves. Riding a "snake boat" with 110 oarsmen is also a well-known group sport from Kerala, the most densely populated state in India, covering an area of 38,000 square kilometers.

"For more leisurely activities at your hotel, you can experience Ayurveda," said Rao, referring to a traditional Indian massage from Kerala. Folk plays and dances, such as the vivid Kathakali performance, are also unique to the region.

"China, Japan and Korea are the countries India is focusing on now for tourism," said Rao.

"Last year, only 5,000 tourists in Kerala were from China, but this year we will make our best efforts to attract more Chinese."

Global Times - Huang Meitao contributed to this story

Naveen Srivastava, the Indian Consul General in Shanghai, G. Kamala Vardhana Rao, Kerala tourism secretary, and other guests at the event Photos: GT and courtesy of keralatourism.org

Naveen Srivastava, the Indian Consul General in Shanghai, G. Kamala Vardhana Rao, Kerala tourism secretary, and other guests at the event Photos: GT and courtesy of keralatourism.org

Naveen Srivastava, the Indian Consul General in Shanghai, G. Kamala Vardhana Rao, Kerala tourism secretary, and other guests at the event Photos: GT and courtesy of keralatourism.org

Naveen Srivastava, the Indian Consul General in Shanghai, G. Kamala Vardhana Rao, Kerala tourism secretary, and other guests at the event Photos: GT and courtesy of keralatourism.org