India Kerala Tourism- Tourist Places Of Kerala, Culture and Festivals

Tourist Places of Kerala -IV- Thekkady -Periyar Wild Life Sanctuary

2008-05-10T09:29:00.000-07:00

Thekkady(Periyar)
Thekkady one of the most popular wild life sanctuaries of India is better known for the Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve spread across 777 sq km, of which 360 sq km being thick forest is an important tourist destinations of Kerala.. The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is situated on the banks of an artificial lake, the Periyar Lake, high in the ranges of the Western Ghats. Here the Western Ghats is clothed in dense semi-evergreen tropical forests characterized by tall trees and a closed canopy. Widespread patches of grasslands spread towards the bank of the lake add to the beauty of the forest. The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Thekkady is one of the 16 Project Tiger Reserves in India.
Attractions of Thekkady
The picturesque Periyar Lake is the pride of Kerala Tourism and a clear evidence to natures' luxury and human innovation. It is the major attraction of Thekkady. The marvelous artificial lake formed with the building of Mullaperiyar Dam across the Periyar River in 1895 provides continuous water for the local wildlife and adds to the charm of the National Park. This permanent source of water, spans an area of 55 sq km slowly attracted wild animals. Thekkady is one of the few places where you can watch and photograph wild elephants at close quarters in their natural habitats.

The Periyar Lake offers excellent Boat cruises for tourists. In India it is only at Thekkady you can have the unique experience of viewing wildlife closely from the safety of a boat on the lake which makes this place one of the unique tourist destinations of Kerala.. Below the thick green canopy you can see wandering herds of elephants, sambar deers, tigers, gaurs, wild boars, lion tailed macaques and Nilgiri langurs by the lakes' edge.

The flora and fauna of Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve in Thekkady is marvelous and is one of the most captivating wildlife parks in the world. The topography ranges from hilly to flat grassland areas. The vegetation is of dense and moist type. The population of elephants, bisons, antelopes, sambars, wild boars and tigers in the sanctuary is increasing appreciably. A wide range of birdlife includes darters, cormorants, kingfishers, great Malabar hornbills and racket-tailed drongoes is here to rich the sanctuary. The reptiles like Monitor lizards, Pythons, king cobras, flying lizards, flying squirrels, flying snakes and flying frogs are also the inhabitants of this incredible National Park and Wild Life Sanctuary.A visit to the state of Kerala without a retreat to Thekkady is not complete and you would be missing one of the most beautiful experience of life..

There is a beautiful old stone temple situated in the heart of the Thekkady forest, the ruined Mangala Devi temple. Treks to the temple in the dense forest are arranged for those who love adventures.

How to Reach

By Air: Kochi International Airport (200 km)
Madhurai Airport (140 km)
By Rail: Kottayam Railway Station on Ernakulam-Thiruvananthapuram line
By Road: Thekkady is connected by bus service from Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, Kottayam and Madhurai.

Tourist Places Of Kerala-III - Cochin (Kochi)

2008-05-09T08:53:00.000-07:00

Kochi (Cochin) - The Gate Way to Kerala
While talking Of Indian Tourism The southern state of the country Kerala assumes much significance.Kochi (Cochin is the colonial name), One of the Most visited tourist Places of Kerala a vibrant cosmopolitan city is situated on the south-west cost of Indian peninsula in the wondrous and incomparably scenic 'God's own Country', Kerala. Kochi is referred to as the 'Gate Way of Kerala' as the landing point for all the visitors visiting this tiny state. Kochi was a major center of trade & commerce with the Arabs, Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch and the British in the past.
One of the finest natural harbors in the world, famous as the 'Queen of Arabian Sea', Kochi which has a unique place in the Tourist Map Of Kerala is verged with the Western Ghats in the east and the Arabian sea in the west. Its geographical location provides an experience of a moderate equatorial climate. Majestically spread picturesque and lovely Islands, lagoons, backwaters, small rivulets and beach are some among the attractions of Kochi. During the past few decades Kochi has emerged as the commercial and industrial capital of Kerala . Undoubtedly Kochi is the ideal starting point for exploring the amazing beauty of Tourist Kerala's landscape, the scenic backwaters, where the coconut palm fronds fill up the skyline moving gently and gracefully in the breeze, the boats bobbing up and down quietly, pleasantly and in perfect tune with nature and its rhythm.
How to reach
Kochi is located in Ernakulam district of Kerala, at 220km north of the capital city of Thiruvananthapuram. Kochi being an important port city is well connected by aerial routes, railways and bus. The International Airport at Nedumbassery is connected to all parts of the world. Air India, Oman Air and Kuwait Airways, along with the domestic Indian Airlines operate here. If rail journeys fascinate you then Ernakulam Town and Ernakulam Junction are the nearest railway stations. If you want to hit the road to reach Kochi NH 47, NH 17 and NH 49 passes through the city.
Places of Attraction
Fort Kochi :- The wonderful architecture in Fort Kochi is a blend of the Arab, British, Portuguese and Dutch legacy. The huge Portuguese style Mansion, the Santa Cruz Basilica, the St. Francis Church- the burial site of the famous Vasco da Gama are the other attractions here.
The Chinese fishing nets:- A remnant from the rule of the majestic Kublai Khan, who founded the Yuan Dynasty of China. In Vasco de Gama square you can enjoy the nets being lowered into the sea and its catch.
Mattancherry Palace: - The beautiful Palace was built by the Portuguese in 1557. The palace also known as the 'Dutch Palace' is famous for its mural paintings.
Jewish Synagogue:- This glorious specimen of Jew architecture is built in the year 1568. It is well known for its etched brass pillars and floor art.
St. Francis Church:- The first church built by the Europeans in India (1503 AD).It is the burial site of Vasco da Gama, the famous Portuguese trader and sailor.
Bolghatty Island:- It is a long narrow island, famous for housing the Bolghatty Palace, built by the Dutch in 1744. The only golf course of Kochi is located on this picturesque island
Willington Island:- Willington Island is an artificial island surrounded by beautiful backwaters. The city's best hotels and trading centers, the port trust and the headquarters of the southern naval command are housed here.
Cochin Museum: Cochin Museum, situated in the Hill Palace at Tripunithura is famous for its rich collections of paintings, coins and sculptures. The 19th century oil paintings, mural paintings, wooden sculptures, sculptures in stone and plaster of paris and old coins are displayed in the museum.
Broadway and M. G Road in Ernakulam and Mattancherry and Jew Street in Fort Kochi are main shopping locations of Kochi. The spices of Kochi are also coveted shopper's item

Tourist Places of Kerala-II - Kollam (Quilon)

2008-05-08T08:53:00.000-07:00

Kollam

Kollam previously known as Quilon is one of the the most antiquated cities of Tourist Kerala. This historic coastline city known for its marine and cashew industries was one of the oldest ports on the Malabar coast and a major international trade center with the Persians, Romans, Arabs and Chinese in the past. The Portuguese, Dutch and British established trading posts at Kollam to export spices, sandalwood, ivory and coir. Now also Kollam is the heart of cashew nut processing and trading industry of Kerala.

A vast area of Kollam is covered by the famous Ashtamudi Lake (literally means having eight arms) which is the second largest backwaters of Kerala and is considered the entryway to the enchanting backwaters of Kerala. There are a number of tourist destinations in and around Kollam besides the captivating backwaters. The eight hours boat ride from Kollam to Alappuzha is exceedingly beautiful with lotuses and water lilies growing in the water and water birds splashing and playing in the water.If you miss this experience you are misiing the heart of Kerala .In the Tourist map of Kerala Kollam also hosts some interesting historic remnants and a number of temples built in the traditional architectural style.

Places of Attraction

Thangasseri – This seaside village in the boundary of the city is burst with historical evidences. The remnants of an old Portuguese Fort and the churches built in the eighteenth century are seen here. The 144 feet high lighthouse at Thangasseri provides fabulous views of the sea and the coast of Kollam.

Thevally Palace:- The Thevally Palace on the banks of the river Ashtamudi is a unique example of ancient Kerala architecture.

Mayyannad:- Mayyanadu is noted for its temples and shrines. Among them the Subramanya Temple that is believed to be consecrated by the Sri Sankaracharya, the Hindu philosopher is the most important.

Thirumullavaram:- Thirumullavaram located 6km north of Kollam, is a beautiful beach spot in South Kerala. It is very well connected by road. This beach is ideal for an early morning walk and has good bathing facilities. One can lie around the warm sunlight under the coconut palm fronds swaying and dancing in the breeze. Thirumullavaram Temple is another attraction.

Ochira:- Ochira is a unique pilgrim center. It is famous for its Parabhrahma Temple, which is a unique Kerala temple without any sanctum sanctorum or idol. In the vast ground there are two groves (Kavu). The important festivals are the Ochirakali (June-July) and the Panthrandu Vilakku (December).

Sasthankotta Lake:- It is the largest fresh water lake in Kerala. It is the main source of drinking water for the people in various parts of Kollam. Sree Dharma Sastha Temple one of the famous Temples of Kerala situated on the banks of the river is another attraction. Boating facilities in the beautiful backwaters are also available here.

Alumkadavu:- Alumkadavu is a small picturesque village on the banks of the Kayamkulam lake. It is the home of the skilled artisans who crafted the enormous Kettuvallams (house boats).

Matha Amritanandamayi Ashram:- The ashram is located in Amritapuri, Vallikkavu, 30km north from Kollam Town. This international pilgrimage destination is famous for its educational and Ayurvedic medical institutes. You can visit the Ashram and Matha Amrithanandamayi who is called the hugging saint, on tours of Kollam.

Jadayu Rock:- This massive rock located in the Chadaya Mangalam Village derived its name from the mythical bird Jatayu (vehicle of Lord Mahavisnu) mentioned in Ramayana. It has to say a lot connected with legend, belief and culture. It is an ideal place for trekking also.

Palaruvi Waterfalls – The flow of immaculate waters from a height of 300 feet is a spectacular sight. Separate bathing points for men and women are available.

How to Reach

By air :- Thiruvananthapuram International air port (77km)

By road:- NH 47 and Kollam Shenkotta NH passes through the city.

By rail:- Kollam Junction is connected to all other parts of Kerala

Tourist Places Of Kerala-I -Alappuzha (Alleppey)

2008-05-08T07:52:00.000-07:00

Alappuzha (Alleppy)

Alappuzha or Alleppey in South Kerala, referred as Venice of the East has always had a unique place in the maritime history of Kerala. Being One of the must see destinations of Tourist Kerala ,Now it is well known for its silver beeches, back waters boat races, palm-fringed canals marine products and coir industry. The town was founded in 1762 by Raja Kesavadasan, the Diwan of Travancore. In the Architecture in Alappuzha, one can clearly view the influence of British, Dutch and Portuguese.

Alappuzha, being in Kerala ,the Gods Own Country, the tourist haven of Indian sub continent is one of the favorite tourist attractions for people all around the world. The Arabian sea on the west and the vast network of crisscrossing lakes, lagoons and fresh water rivers adds to the immense natural beauty of Alappuzha, It is an enthralling experience when we pass though the serene backwaters of Alappuzha with coconut trees lined up on the shore. We get to feel the uniqueness of India and Kerala Tourism here and thanks to the wonderful climate, relatively more pleasant in the winter season. It is also home to diverse animal and bird life. The best time to visit Alappuzha is between August–September and February–March.

Places of Attraction

Alappuzha beach:- The long stretch of Silver Beaches, takes one to a picturesque setting. Here is a pier, which extends into the sea which is of over 137 years old. Entertainment facilities at the Vijaya Beach Park like boating, a children's park with toy train and bicycles add to the attraction of the beach. There is also an old lighthouse nearby.

Kuttanadu:- Its lush green paddy fields, long palm trees and banana, elephant yam and cassava farms have a charm of its own and makes it a perfect holiday destination. Because of its wealth of rice crops Kuttanadu is known as the rice bowl of Kerala. It is the very heart of the backwater tourism of Kerala. House boats are available on hire which takes visitors on the waterways.

Pathiramanal:- Pathiramanal literally means "sands of midnight". It is an enchanting little island on the backwater. Hundreds of rare migratory birds from different part of the world are haunted by this place and we can be in the midst of chirping birds of all colors here. The island, which is accessible only by boat lies between Thaneermukkam and Kumarakam. Motor boat and speed boat facilities are available to reach here.

Churches:- The St. Mary's Church, Champakkulam is believed to be one of the seven churches established by St. Thomas. The days of importance here are 3^rd Sunday of October (annual feast) and March 19^th (feast of St. Joseph) every year. The St. Sebastian's Church Arthungal, built by Portuguese missionaries is an important Christian pilgrim center.

Temples:- There are a number of fascinating temples in and around Alappuzha. The Mullakkal Temple, , the Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple, Chettikulangara Bhagavathy Temple, Harippadu Subhramanya Swami Temple and Sree Krishna Swami Temple Ambalappuzha are some among them.

Krishnapuram Palace:- The Krishnapuram Palace built in the 18^th century is in a small distance from Alappuzha. It is known for its typical Kerela architecture and the famous mural painting called Gajendra Moksham.

Boat Races:- The Snake Boat races held in every year during the month of August-September are the major attraction of Alappuzha and they draw tourists from all over the world to here. Nehru Trophy Boat Race held at Punnamada Kayal is the most important one. The Payippad near Haripad, the Thiruvandoor, Neerettupuram, Karuvatta and Thaikkoottam boat races are held at different parts of the district.

How To Reach

By air:- Kochi international airport Nedumbassery - 64 km, Thiruvananthpuram air port(150 km)

By rail:- Alappuzha Railway Station is connected to major cities.

By road:- NH 47 passes through Alappuzha.

By water:- Alappuzha is connected by boat service through the backwaters to the major coastal towns of kerela viz.Kollam, Changanassery, Kottayam, Kochi, Kumarakom, Kovalam and Chengannur

Kerala is quite famous for its Ayurvedic and natural cure treatments . Those of you visit Kerala need to visit the well known Ayurvedic research centres functioning as trust or under the Govt. and not the mushrooming private panchakarma clinic made for extracting money with no traditional knowledge or background.If you like to know more about Ayurveda visit here. You may also know more about Rudraksha herb( nut) and its marvelloous healing powers here.