Kerala– one of the celebrated ten must see destinations in the world, a land renowned as God’s Own Country. What adds to its charm are its backwaters, beaches, Ayurvedic health holidays, hill stations, wildlife, festivals, monuments, vibrant art forms and an amazing social development that indicates we are on par with the developed world.
Kerala, the “land of coconuts” means the palms shade nearly the entire state from the tropical sun. A very easy place to simply sit back and enjoy, Kerala gives ample options to the visitors in leisure. Spend a day riding small ferries through the backwater lagoons or watching elephants cavort in the wildlife sanctuaries; enjoy the spicy food which may be the best vegetarian cuisine on the planet. The beach at Kovalam is considered one of the best in India!
Wake up to the bird calls, the music from the temples, the Mosques, and Church bells ringing at the cathedrals. Religious tolerance defines the Kerala culture and lifestyle. Kerala is a place to meander –Embark on a car journey from Trivandrum or Cochin out to almost any village and spend a day wandering the dikes between the rice paddies and rubber trees, seeing how half the world still lives, men and women stooping to cut rice with sickles, or spreading coconut along the road to dry, water buffaloes wallowing in the irrigation ditches, every inch of ground cultivated. Every small field lined with palms. The breeze rustling the palm fronds is just a bonus…
VADAKKUMNATHAN TEMPLEThis is one of the oldest temples of the state. Lord Shiva, the presiding deity, is represented by the "ling". Traditional Kerala style architecture, exquisite murals and carvings on the wall depicting stories from epics, are one of the major tourist attractions in Thrissur. Non-Hindus are not allowed to enter this temple.
MARINE DRIVEMarine Drive is considered to be one of the most beautiful part of Kochy city. The marine walk is the main hangout for the local populace as the view of the backwaters and the harbour from here is excellent.Marine Drive is considered to be one of the most beautiful parts of the city. It is also called Shanmugham Road. The marine walk is the main hangout for the local populace as the view of the backwaters and the harbor from here is excellent. At night the lights from the various ships anchored at the harbor is just breathtaking.There are various buildings along the Marine Drive which are good examples of modem architecture with the notable one being Asoka Apartments on the southern end of the Marine Drive with a huge Namaste, the traditional greeting.
CHERAI BEACHCherai Beach offers a unique combination of sea and backwaters rimmed by lush green coconut palms. Children's Park A high-tech children's Park with Non-Conventional Energy Museum and Musical Fountain. The Children enjoy a lot with the facilities available here.The newly beautified main beach with the walkway adds to the charm and the High mask lamp makes the beach enjoyable even at night. Cherai beach is well known for the mouth lingering fresh sea food.The 10 kilometer long Cherai Beach is the best golden beach of Kerala and is rightly called “The Princess of the Arabian sea”. One should really feel the warmth of the golden rays of the sunset just in front of our resort. Dolphins are occasionally seen here.
BHOOTHATHANKETTUBuilt scenic dam site with boating facilities is situated in a vast virgin forest. It is a popular picnic sport with Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary near by. Bhoothathankettu is located 50 km north east of Ernakulam town, Kerala, India. Bhoothathankettu is situated amidst the lap of Mother Nature. The land is covered with forests which are home to migratory birds from around the world. There are lakes, mountains and the river Periyar which flows from Bhoothathankettu. It is heaven to nature lovers.
MUNNARMunnar, one of the most popular and picturesque hill stations in India is situated 1600 to 1800 meters above sea level. Munnar is cradled in a valley hemmed in by hills. Many of its attractions are to be found on its outskirts, within a radius of 10 to 30 km from the town. Munnar is an old British Tea plantation town blending with the valley. Its thick foggy air suspended from above the tall red wood trees. Aromatic tea gardens, lush green forests and misty mountain peaks blend harmoniously in Munnar to create a blissful atmosphere that is hard to describe.Due to its beautiful surroundings and so natural, Munnar has been christened as 'Virgin Munnar', in the tourism and travel industry. Munnar is well known for tea plantations and beautiful hills. Increasing fame and the growth of visitors may soon account to deletion of this description.
IDUKKI WILDLIFE SANCTUARYThe Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary extends over the Thodupuzha and Udumpanchola taluka of Idukki district. The Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary is spread over an area of 77 sq km and is about 450-748 m above sea level. It is one of the most beautiful and flora and fauna rich wildlife in Kerala.A land-locked district, Idukki is one of the most nature rich areas of Kerala. The Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary here spreads over an area of 77 sq km in the Thodupuzha and Udumpanchola taluks of the district. Situated at an altitude of 450-748 m above sea level, this sanctuary occupies the forest land between the Cheruthoni river and the Periyar river. There is a scenic lake around the sanctuary, covered by an enchanting canopy of tropical ever-green and deciduous trees, and offers boat rides.
CHINNAR WILD LIFELying close to the plantations, in the rich jungles of Periyar in Thekkady is one of the world's most fascinating natural wildlife reserves - the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Spread across 777 sq. km, of which 360 sq. km is thick evergreen forest, the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary was declared a Tiger Reserve in 1978. Noted for its geo-morphological diversity of wildlife and scenic beauty, the Reserve attracts visitors from all over the world. The splendid artificial lake formed by the Mullaperiyar Dam across the Periyar river adds to the charm of the park. This is the only sanctuary in India where you can have the unique experience of viewing wildlife at close quarters from the safety of a boat on the lake. The greatest attraction of Periyar remains the large herds of wild elephants that come down to the lake's edge.
THEKKADYLying close to the plantations, in the rich jungles of Periyar in Thekkady is one of the world's most fascinating natural wildlife reserves - the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Spread across 777 sq. km, of which 360 sq. km is thick evergreen forest, the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary was declared a Tiger Reserve in 1978. Noted for its geo-morphological diversity of wildlife and scenic beauty, the Reserve attracts visitors from all over the world. The splendid artificial lake formed by the Mullaperiyar Dam across the Periyar river adds to the charm of the park. This is the only sanctuary in India where you can have the unique experience of viewing wildlife at close quarters from the safety of a boat on the lake. The greatest attraction of Periyar remains the large herds of wild elephants that come down to the lake's edge.
ANCHU VILAKKUAbout 22 km from Kottayam, this stone lamp post, a typical example of Kerala architecture, was built near the Changanacherry boat jetty by the renowned freedom fighter Veluthampi Dalawa. The Changanacherry market, one of the largest in Kerala, was also established by him. The five lamps on this post are lit using kerosene.
PONJAR PALACERoyal collection of antiques, rock cut lamps, sculptures etc. The PoonjarPalace is a glorious testimony to the regal opulence of a bygone era. Within the palace walls is an extraordinary royal collection of antiques and exquisite furniture including a palanquin, a thoni – carved out of a single piece of wood – for Ayurvedic massages, huge chandeliers, palm leaf engravings, jewel boxes, varieties of lamps, sculptures of Nataraja (the dancing Siva), grain measures, statues and weapons. A unique conch preserved here is taken out once a year for ritualistic purposes. Near the palace is an amazing replica of the Madurai Meenakshi Temple. The walls of this temple bear sculptures that narrate stories from the Puranas (the legends of ancient India). However, the most fascinating thing here is the Chuttuvilakku (row of lamps) carved out on the stonewalls of the Sastha Temple nearby. Such rocks cut lamps are rare in India.
VEMBANAD LAKE16 km away from Kottayam town, Kottayam is a vast network of rivers and canals, which empty into the great expanse of water called the VembanadLake. The lake, an enchanting picnic spot and a fast developing backwater tourism destination, provides boating, fishing and sightseeing experiences that are truly exhilarating. The KumarakomTouristVillage offers houseboat cruises and holiday packages. The serene lake comes alive during Onam with a spectacular water regatta - the snake boat races. It is indeed amazing to watch oarsmen, at least a hundred in one boat, slice their way through the waters to the fast rhythm of their own full-throated singing.
KUMARAKOM BIRD SANCTUARY16 km away from Kottayam the village of Kumarakom is a cluster of little islands on the VembanadLake, and is part of the Kuttanad region. The bird sanctuary here, which is spread across 14 acres, is a favourite haunt of migratory birds and an ornithologist's paradise. Egrets, darters, herons, teal, waterfowl, cuckoo, wild duck and migratory birds like the Siberian stork that live here in flocks are a fascination for visitors. The best way to watch the birds of the Kumarakom sanctuary is a boat trip round the islands. An enchanting backwater destination, Kumarakom offers visitors many other leisure options. Boating and fishing facilities are available at the Taj Garden Retreat, a sprawling old bungalow-turned-resort.
PUNNAPRAA short distance from Alappuzha is Punnapra, a village which has gone down in history as the scene of a bitter and heroic fighting between the communists and Travancore State Police during the Punnapra Vayalar Communist uprising of 1946.
EDATHUA CHURCHThis church, dedicated to St. George is of special significance as it is believed that prayers and offerings here help in healing all kinds of mental disorders and other ailments. The annual feast is held from 5th - 7th May and attracts devotees from all parts of south India. The Church is just 24 kms. from Alappuzha.
CHAMPAKULAM CHURCHThe St. Mary's Church is one of the oldest church in Kerala. It is said to be one of the seven churches established by St.Thomas. Tha annual feast is held on the 3rd Sunday of October. The feast of St. Joseph is celebrated on March 19th.
ARTHUNKAL CHURCHThis christian Pilgrim centre near Sherthalai is 22 km.north of alappuzha. The St.AndrewsChurch here was built by Portuguese missionaries. The annual feast of St. Sebastian is held here in the month of January.
MULLACKEL RAJESWARI TEMPLEIt is dedicated to the Goddess Rajarajeswari. The nine day 'Navarathri' festival is celebrated twice a year and is of special significance to the people of Alappuzha. Another important festival of the temple is 'Thaipooyakavadi'.
ALAPPUZHAAlappuzha beach is one of the most popular spots in the district of Alappuzha. Its beautiful garden on the shore gives an exclusive sight. Imposing buildings of a colonial past overlook the shore. The pier, which extends into the sea is more than 140 years old and is a rare sight. Dense Palm groves at one end and an ancient towering light house at the other, VijayPark and Sea view park are all spectacular sights one should never miss. Boating Facility is available in both Parks.Facilities at the VijayaBeachPark: Boating, a children’s park with toy train and bicycles. Open from 1500 - 2000 hours.
BACK WATER CRUISEView the landscape beauty , monuments, temples,churches and industries of Alappuzha by cruising through its rivers,canals and backwaters.The starting point is from Alleppey and the finishing point is at Jetty.
BOATRACEAlappuzha district is proud of being the cradle of boat races. All the important boat races, namely the Nehru Trophy boat Race at Punnamada, the Payippad near Haripad, the Thiruvandoor, Neerettupuram, Karuvatta and Thaikkoottam boat races are held at different parts of the district during August-September Thousands of people from all parts of the world come and witness these races.
KRISHNAPURAM PALACELocated at a distance of 47 km from Alappuzha on the way to Kollam, this palace was built in the 18th century during the reign of Marthanda Varma. This palace is noted for its typical Kerala architecture, with gabled roof, dormer windows and narrow corridors. Here you will find the famous mural kept in the western end of the ground floor, called ‘Gajendra Moksham’ which is the largest mural in Kerala. There is also a museum of antique sculptures, paintings and bronze articles in the palace.
KUTTANAD REGIONThe region is known as the 'Rice Bowl of Kerala'. It is perhaps the only region in the world where farming is done below sea level. The boat trip to Changanassery passes through this beautiful and fertile region.
ARANMULA BOAT RACEThe stretch of river Pamba at aranmula is the venue of the famous snake boat race. It is more a pageantry than a race. The snake boat is of an exrtra ordinary shape with a length of about 100ft. The rear portion towering to a height of about 20ft. and the front portion tapering gradually. The boat resembles a snake with its hood raised. the race is held on the last day of the week long Onam festival to commemorate the crossing of the river by Lord Krishna. The participants cheerfully row up and down the river to the tune of songs known as Vanchippattu.Vijnana Kalavedi at Aranmula imparts training in the traditional arts and crafts of Kerala.Kathakali, classical dances , classical music as well as Kalaripayattu (the martial arts of Kerala) are taught here.
ARANMULA MIRRORAranmula is also famous for its metal mirror. It is not made of glass but with bellmetal. This is a unique art which is not found any where else in the world. It is believed that a divine visitation inspired a widow of this village to discover a mysrterious blend of bronze which could be waxed bring into crystal clear mirror. The technique of production of this mirror is a closely guarded secret handed over from generation to, generation of craftsmen.
ARANMULAAranmula is situated on the banks of the river Pamba, 10kms away from Chengannoor on the Thiruvananthapuram -Kottayam route. The Krishna temple here attracts a number of devotees and is an important pilgrim centre. The annual commemoration of the installation of the diety, Parthasarathy falls on the last day of the weak long celebrations to the Onam festival. A Snake Boat Race is held here as part of the festival during Augest/ September.
KONNI ELEPHANT CAGEKonni is the gateway to the forest bordering the district. In the past, wild elephants caught from the forests were brought here and put in wooden cages known as Anakoodu to be tamed and trained for work. Plans are a foot to develop a safari park here. It is situated 11kma away from Pathanamthitta.
KAVIYOORThe temple here dedicated to Sree Hanuman Stands on a small hill and has been built in the gable style of architecture peculiar to Kerala. There is another rock-cut temple2kms away from the kaviyoor temple, which is great archeological importance. The temple has been assigned to the 8th century. A.D. , due to its close resemblances to the Pallava style. It is about 20 feet broad and the central shrine is a squire cell with a rock cut Sivalinga. The stone figures engraved in this temple are among the earliest specimens of stone culture. This temple is now preserved as a historical monument by the Archeology department. The nearest railway station is Thiruvalla.
MANJINIKKARAThe mortal remains of Mar Ignatius Elias 111, the Patriarch of Antioch who died during a visit to India is buried here. the tomb of the patriarch has become a popular pilgrim centre for Christians. It is located 6kms away from Pathanamthitta.
KOZHENCHERYThe religious convention known as the Maramon convention is held annually in February/ March on the river bed at Maramon near Kozhencherry. This is the biggest religious gathering of the Christians in Asia.
KOTTUKALROCK CUT CAVE TEMPLE(11 km from Chadayamangalam) This temple situated on the Thiruvananthapuram-Kottayam MC Road is an idyllic example of rock cut temple architecture.
THIRUMULLAVARM BEACH(6 km north of Kollam town)This secluded beach is a beautiful picnic centre and has frequent bus connections to the town.
OCHIRA(34 km north of Kollam town)The unique feature of this famous pilgrim centre is that there is no deity or idol at the famous Parabrahma temple dedicated to universal consciousness. Ochira Kali in mid June and the twelve day Panthrandu Vilakku in November/December are the two main annual festivals. Ochira Kali is a mock fight enacted between groups of men dressed as warriors on the padanilam (fighting spot). They perform a martial dance standing in knee-deep water, brandishing swords and shields and splashing water in every direction. There are frequent buses from Kollam and Alappuzha.
SASTHAMKOTTA(29 km from Kollam town)The vast fresh water lake here is the largest of its kind in Kerala. The ancient Sastha temple which lends its name to the town, is an important pilgrim centre. There are frequent bus services from Kollam. Accommodation is available at the PWD Rest House.
MAYYANAD(10 km south of Kollam town) Mayyanad is noted for its shrines and temples. The most important of the nine temples here is the Subramanya temple at Umayanallor. This shrine is said to have been consecrated by the great Hindu philosopher Sree Sankaracharya. There are frequent buses from Kollam to Mayyanad.
THANGASSERI(5 km from Kollam town) This seaside village of historic importance has the ruins of an old Portuguese fort and churches built in the 18th century. The Thangasseri Lighthouse is open to visitors from 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm. There are buses at 15 minute intervals from Kollam town.
THIRUVALLAMThis serene backwater stretch, enroute to Kovalam, is famous for its canoe rides.
KATHAKALYIs Kathakali a stylized dance-drama? Is it a pantomime? Can it be called a classical ballet? One of the world's top-ranking poets and Nobel Laureates Rabindranath Tagore was instantly impressed by the aesthetic range and the narrative techniques of Kathakali when Kalamandalam presented a programme in Santiniketan. Along with Manipuri Tagore included Kathakali in the curriculum of Viswabharati. Kathakali was born only in the 17th century. But in less than four centuries it grew up to represent India's cultural heritage to the world outside. An eclectic art Kathakali evolved its classicism receiving inspiration from most of its predecessors such as Koodiyaattam, Krishnanaattam, Raamanaattam, Theyyam, Mudiyeettu and martial arts like Padayani and Kalarippayattu.
MOHINIYATTAMThere is no precise historical evidence to establish the antiquity of Mohiniyatttam, the classical female dance-tradition of Kerala. Probably it was evolved in the seventeenth century. In the court of King Swathi Thirunal who ruled Travancore (South Kerala) in the 18th century, Mohiniyattam flourished along with Bharatanatyam, the classical dance of Tamil Nadu. The post-Swathy period witnessed the downfall of Mohiniyattam. 'The dance of the enchantress' slipped into eroticism to satisfy the epicurean-life of some provincial satraps and feudal Lords. Poet Vallathol rescued Mohiniyattam from total extinction. It was added to the curriculum of Kalamandalam at its very inception and within the past seven decades a number of prominent figures have emerged in the field, under its aegis, giving shape to what has come to be known as the ‘kalamandalam style’.
KALARIPPAYATTKalarippayatt is the traditional martial art of Kerala. It is believed to be the forerunner of all eastern martial arts . It has played a significant role in the technical development of all other performing arts in Kerala. Its roots can be traced back to the 12th century when skirmishes among the many feudal principalities were very common. Kalarippayatt is still taught in Kerala. The founders of this Sangham played a significant role in the revival of Kalarippayatt. There are Kalries in north Kerala too, especially in Kozhikode.
AYURVEDAAyurveda is believed as the oldest treatment method in the world (more than 3500 years old). The Plants are used for preparing as medicines. Nowadays Ayurveda has become very popular among the tourist especially foreigners. Patients from all over the world are coming here for Ayurveda treatment. The literal meaning of Ayurveda is 'Science of Life'. Now the traditional knowledge has been improved through scientific research and is taught in various Ayurveda Colleges in Kerala. A graduate doctor in Ayurveda, takes 5 years of courses at college besides six months of internship and is considered on par with doctors of modern medicine
PARUMALAMar Gregorios Metropolitan, a Saint of Malankara Orthodox Church is burried here. This is also a famous Christian pilgrim centre . The orma perunnal (Remembrance Day) is celebrated during November every year. The nearest railway station is Thiruvalla.
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