Kerala Is Now Officially Keralam: What Canadian Travellers Need to Know

Last Updated on Sep 4th, 2026 by Ramandeep Kaur, Leave a Comment

Canadian travellers planning a trip to southern India may notice a new name appearing on official documents, government websites and public signage. Kerala is now officially known as Keralam, following a notification from the Government of India.

The new name officially took effect on August 25, 2026, under the Kerala (Alteration of Name) Act, 2026.

Source: Govt. notifies ‘Keralam’ as new name for State, effective Tuesday

For travellers, however, there is no need to change existing holiday plans. The name may be new in official use, but the destination itself remains the same — including its famous beaches, backwaters, hill stations, wildlife areas and cultural attractions.

Why Has Kerala Been Renamed Keralam?

“Keralam” is the traditional Malayalam name for the state.

The move to officially change the name has been under discussion for several years. The Kerala Legislative Assembly passed a resolution in 2024 requesting that the state’s official name be changed from Kerala to Keralam.

The Union Cabinet subsequently approved the proposal in February 2026. The Kerala (Alteration of Name) Bill was then passed by both Houses of Parliament in August before receiving presidential assent.

The Central Government formally brought the Act into effect on August 25, making Keralam the official name of the state.

What Does the Name Change Mean for Canadian Travellers?

For Canadians travelling to India, the change is primarily an official and administrative update.

Tourists should not expect major changes to their travel arrangements. Airports, airlines, railways, hotels, tour operators and tourist attractions continue to operate as normal.

Travellers may see both “Kerala” and “Keralam” used during the transition, particularly while government records, websites, signs and other official materials are updated.

If an existing flight booking, hotel reservation or travel document mentions Kerala, there is no reason for travellers to assume that their reservation has become invalid simply because the state’s official name has changed.

Popular Destinations Remain the Same

The name change does not affect the destinations that have made the state one of India’s most popular choices for international visitors.

Canadian travellers can continue exploring:

• Kochi – Known for its historic neighbourhoods, colonial-era architecture, Chinese fishing nets and vibrant food scene.
• Alappuzha – Famous for its peaceful backwaters and traditional houseboat experiences.
• Munnar – A popular mountain destination surrounded by tea plantations and scenic landscapes.
• Thiruvananthapuram – The state’s capital, home to important cultural and historic attractions.
• Wayanad – A nature-focused destination known for forests, waterfalls, wildlife and mountain scenery.
• Kovalam – A long-time favourite for travellers looking for beaches and a relaxed coastal holiday.
• Kumarakom – Popular for backwater experiences, resorts and birdwatching.

Keralam Continues to Be a Popular India Destination for Canadians

For travellers from Canada, the state offers a very different experience from many of India’s major northern cities.

Keralam combines tropical landscapes, beaches, mountains, waterways, wildlife and a distinctive cultural heritage. It is also well known for Ayurveda, traditional cuisine and wellness-focused holidays.

For Canadians looking for a slower-paced part of an India itinerary, the region can be particularly appealing after visiting busier destinations such as Delhi, Agra, Mumbai or Jaipur.

A trip to Keralam can also be combined with other southern Indian destinations, creating a longer itinerary covering India’s beaches, temples, heritage sites and natural landscapes.

Will Travel Documents Say Keralam Now?

Travellers should expect a gradual transition rather than an immediate overnight change everywhere.

Government departments and authorities are expected to update official records, websites, signs and documentation to reflect the new name.

As a result, travellers may encounter both names for some time. Search engines, older travel guides, airline information, maps and previously issued documents may continue to use “Kerala”, while newer official materials increasingly use “Keralam”.

This should not cause confusion for visitors. Both names refer to the same Indian state.

What Should Canadians Do Before Their Trip?

Canadian travellers do not need to take any special action solely because of the name change.

If you are planning a trip to the region, continue to check your airline, hotel and travel documents as usual. When searching online, it may also be useful to use both “Kerala” and “Keralam” because older travel information will continue to use the former name.

Travellers should also make sure they have the appropriate Indian visa or travel authorization, passport validity and other documents required for their trip.

A New Official Name, But the Same Travel Experience

The change from Kerala to Keralam represents an important linguistic and cultural change in India’s official map.

For international visitors, however, the practical message is straightforward: the destination has not changed.

The backwaters of Alappuzha are still there. The tea plantations of Munnar remain unchanged. Kochi’s historic streets, Kerala’s beaches and the state’s rich cultural traditions continue to welcome visitors.

So, whether your next search is for “Kerala travel” or “Keralam travel,” you’re looking at the same spectacular corner of southern India.

For Canadian travellers planning their next India adventure, the name may be changing — but the experience of discovering this remarkable destination remains the same.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Kerala now officially called Keralam?

A: Yes. The Government of India officially brought the Kerala (Alteration of Name) Act, 2026 into force on August 25, 2026, making Keralam the state’s official name.

Q: Do Canadians need to change existing travel bookings?

A: No special change is expected simply because of the name change. Existing bookings that use “Kerala” continue to refer to the same destination.

Q: Is Keralam the same place as Kerala?

A: Yes. Keralam is the new official name for the state previously known officially as Kerala.

Q: Will airports and tourist attractions change?

A: The name change does not change the physical location or operation of the state’s airports, tourist attractions, hotels or transportation networks.

Q: Should I search for Kerala or Keralam when planning my trip?

A: For the time being, using both terms can be helpful. Older travel websites and guides may continue to use Kerala, while newer official information may increasingly use Keralam.

Q: Is Keralam worth visiting for Canadian travellers?

A: Absolutely. The region remains one of India’s most diverse destinations, offering beaches, backwaters, mountains, wildlife, culture, food and wellness experiences.

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