Tuesday, June 22, 2010

Kerala Tourism



                                           Kerala... God's Own Country
 
The small state of Kerala, which represents just 1% of the land mass, is considered to be one of India's most beautiful state. It is a very rural state with most of the population living in villages but is culturally and scenically diverse. Kerala has two national parks, ten wildlife sanctuaries and two bird sanctuaries.

Kerala occupies a long (550km), narrow strip of land in the far south of India. Its coastline is on the Arabian Sea (part of the Indian Ocean) and its eastern border with the neighbouring state of Tamil Nadu is the top of the majestic Western Ghat mountains. The landscape varies from long golden beaches to cool hill stations and dense green jungle to bustling cities. Its unique feature is the 1,900km of palm fringed backwaters.

The people of Kerala are warm and friendly and interaction with them is often a highlight of a holiday to Kerala. Keralites have a strong culture and are fiercely proud of their state. Some of their art forms (eg Kathakali and Theyyam) and martial arts (kalaripayattu) are unique.

We prepare customised Kerala Tourism Packages by combining the attractive places and exotic Resorts in Kerala. Information about Kerala Tourism, Kerala Tourist Places, Kerala vacation, Kerala Visit and customised packages.

More details of all tourist places in kerala  


Wayanad                         Cochin                            Trivandrum


Wednesday, April 21, 2010

Tourist place in Waynad



Wayanad lies at an altitude varying from 700 - 2100 metres above the sea level. The district has the highest number of tribal settlements in Kerala. The hill ranges of Vythiri taluk (taluk is a sub division of a district), through which the road from Kozhikode ascends the Wayanad plateau over the mind boggling bends and ridges, are the highest locations of Wayanad district.

Getting there :

By Air :Karipur International Airport, Kozhikode about 63 km.
By Rail : Kozhikode about 63 km .


Edakkal Caves :

Edakkal Caves in the Ambukuthy mountains is not a cave in the right sense. It is only a cleft about 96 ft. long and 22 ft.wide in the rock. There are some interesting carvings of pre-historic age. This location is of breath-taking beauty.

(Timings: 9:00 a.m.to 4:30 p.m.)



Pakshipathalam :

The labyrinth of Pakshipathalam is another fascinating trek.This is a challenging tourist spot for any adventure seeking tourist.To reach Pakshipathalam, a 9kms. walk along winding paths through dense evergreen forest over 3 hills is required.The destination is a grotto of caves created by nature a million years ago. Pakshipathalam is the abode of various exotic birds & wild beasts.


Meenmutty waterfalls:This trek will take you through the beautiful & bountiful forest of Wayanad. And the place to rest those aching bones is in nature's jewel-Meenmutty waterfall - a triple - decker fall.
Timings : Departure from our hotel before 3:00 p.m.



Soochipara waterfalls:



Soochipara waterfalls are really a treasure of nature. Alight from your drive and take a 1 km walk into the dense equatorial forest of Wayanad and find the nature at its thundering best. Soochipara is a 3-tiered powerful waterfalls. The cliff face here is ideal for rock climbing.
Timings : Departure from our hotel before 4:00 p.m.

 

Kanthanpara Falls

From a particular point of Suchipara this beautiful Falls can be watched as white thinner. [Top]



Chembra Peak :


Chembra Peak is the tallest peak in Wayanad -2100m above sea level.The peak is an exhilarating 4 hours trek from the base of this hill .At 1500m above sea level is a crystal lake hardly touched by human hands.This peak is a trekker's paradise and an ideal place for camping at night. The scenic beauty of Wayanad, which is visible from the top of Chembra, is very mesmerising.
Timing :  Before 10:00 a.m.(preferred).



Kuruva Dweep :


The Kuruva Island,955 acres of green forest on the tributaries of east flowing river Kabani,is an ideal picnic spot.The island is uninhabited.This isolated area is a paradise with myriad birds.Enjoy the sights of different birds and learn about their nesting habits and mating calls.An ideal site for camping too.
Timings : Departure from our hotel before 3:00 p.m.



Lakkidi:


Lakkidi one of the highest locations in Wayanad,a ghat pass at an elevation of 700m. above sea level.The lofty mountain peaks,the gurging stream,luxuriant vegetation and the bird's eye view of the deep valley,with its winding roads,are breath taking.

Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary :
Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary is located very near to the Karnataka border. Wild forests covering an area of 345 sq.kms. from the Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, the biggest abode of wild animals in Malabar. Elephant, spotted deer, bison, tiger, wild bear. .etc. are found in this sanctuary. The forest department has facilities here for providing elephant rides to tourists.
Timings : 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.& 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.




Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary :


Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary is another popular Wildlife Sanctuary in Wayanad.You can find here spotted deers,elephants,bison,leopard...etc.or the greatest hunter of them all - the tiger.Jeep/Sumo Safari inside the wildlife sanctuary is allowed.A big hit with tourists.
Timings : 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.& 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.



Thirunelly Temple :

It is known as "Thekkan Kasi" of Kerala.It is believed that a dip in the river Papanasini, running crystal clear downhill,washes away one's sins.
Timings : 6:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.



Jain Temple :
This ancient site was the center of the spice trade. Here diamonds and pearls exchanged hands for cinnamon and cloves.



Banasura Sagar Dam:

Place :
Banasura Project, Padinjarathara
Location: Banasura Project at Padinjarathara, about 25 km northeast of Kalpetta, Wayanad district, north Kerala.
The picturesque Banasura Project is the largest earthern dam in India and the second largest in Asia. Located in the midst of lovely, mist-clad hills with a wildlife sanctuary and park full of flowering trees, this spot of enchantment has no parallel elsewhere. With its placid crystal clear waters Banasura is a wonderful picnic spot.

At Kalpetta, which once used to be the stronghold of the Jains in Kerala, you also have the attraction of historic monuments like the Ananthanathaswami Jain Temple near Puliyarmala.
Getting there:
By Air : Karipur international airport, about 23 km from Kozhikode town.
By Rail : Kozhikode about 72 km away from Kalpetta.

Pookote Lake

This is a natural fresh water lake nestling amid evergreen forests and mountain slopes at an altitude of 2100 meters above sea level and having an area of 8.5ha. The Panamaram rivulet - one of the main tributaries of the Kabani River - originates from it. Lying 3km south of Vythiri town, the lake is one of the most popular tourist spots in Wayanad. Boating facilities are available. There is an aquarium and a green house here. Spices and handicraft items are available for sale at Pookote. (35km)


Pazhassi Tomb

The memorial of Pazhassi Raja known as the Lion of Kerala is an important heritage site. The tomb marks the point where the Raja was cremated. The monument and the underground museum were conceived and designed by Eugene Pandala, the architect who designed Banasura Hill Resort. (15km)



The Glass Temple

This temple located at Koottamunda is dedicated to Parswanatha Swami, the Third Thirthankara of the Jain faith. It is an exquisitely beautiful family temple. The icons of Paraswanatha Swami and Padmavathi Devi set in the sanctum of this temple are reflected in a thousand beautiful patterns on the mirrors placed on the inner side of the temple walls. (45 km)



Begur Wildlife Sanctuary

Located 20 km to the east of Mananthavady in Wayanad, the Begur Wildlife Sanctuary is home to several species of animals including elephants, deer, tigers, boars, leopards, etc. One can also find a variety of birds in this sanctuary. The dense forest cover has a wealth of herbs with high medicinal value. The best time to visit the Begur wildlife sanctuary is from December to May, when scarcity of water in the Bandhipur, Nagarhole and Mudamalai sanctuaries forces animals to migrate to Begur. (25 km) Learn more in Wikipedia...



Phantom  Rocks

This is a natural union of rocks. It is said that this formed because of Earth Quake. There were more rocks on this. Now some of them fell down during small Earth quakes and is loosing the beauty.







Chethalayam Fall
 
The Chethalayam Falls is another not very known fall in Wayanad yet there is no denying that it is extremely beautiful. The fall is 37 km from Kalpetta, 12 km from Sultan Bathery and 54 km from Meppady and offers wonderful opportunity to trek its rocks in the summer season (when due to heat the water dries up).


Heritage Museum, Ambalavayal   

This Museum lies at a distance of 12 km from Sultan Bathery and displays items related to tribal communities. Prominent among these items are clay sculptures, ancient hunting equipments like bows and arrows, stone weapons, musical instruments, bangles, ear ornaments and hunting traps. The items have been collected from all over Wayanad region. The Museum is open between 9 am to 6 pm. 


 Sunrise Valley

Sunrise Valley provides some excellent trekking opportunities in Wayanad. Sunrise Point, which overlooks the valley, is located only a couple of minutes drive from Glenora Homestay. It's a stunning place to visit at any time of the day.





Sentinel Rockfall: 

Near Chooralmala, about 22 kms south of Kalpetta, it is a rivetting waterfall tumbling down a height of 20 m from a hilltop. The spot is ideal for rock climbing.







                                   Wayanad Route Map


Waynad Tourism

Waynad
The wonderful Wayanad is a hill resort of Kerala that offers nature at its best. There are the mist-clad mountains, spice plantations and the stretches of greens as far as the sight goes. The majestic mountains of the Western Ghats add to the charm of Wayanad.
   


LOCATION
The hill resort of Wayanad is situated in the northeastern part of Kerala.

BEST TIME TO VISIT
Wayanad experiences tropical monsoons and rather hot summer. Thus the best time to visit Wayanad is between the months of August and May

TOURISTS ATTRACTIONS
Amongst the major tourist attractions in Wayanad are the two rock caves of Edakkal Caves. Situated in the Ambukuthy Hills the caves are famous for the ancient carvings and pictorial writings dating back to the new Stone Age.

The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is a must visit for the nature as well as the animal lovers. The Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is an element of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Close by are the Nagarhole and Bandipur National Parks. The fabulous flora and fauna of the sanctuary are a major tourist attraction at Wayanad.

You may check out the coffee, tea, cardamom, pepper and rubber plantations that dot the hills of Wayanad

Pookat Lake is another spot to chill out in Wayanad. You may visit the fresh water aquarium or the children's park, enjoying boating or even shop for handicraft items and spices at the fresh water Pookat Lake that is wrapped in high hills and gorgeous greens.

The Varambetta Mosque and the Ambalavayal Heritage Museum are the other places worth visiting on your trip to Wayanad

For tourist spot in wayanad....Click here

Cochin Tourist places


Chinese Fishing Nets, Fort Kochi
The chinese fishing nets (Cheenavala) are distinctly unique to Cochin. It is believed that traders from the court of the Chinese ruler Kublai Khan introduced these nets here. Oddly, these nets are found only in Kochi, outside China! Many fishermen earn their livelihood by fishing using these massive nets. A whole stretch of the coast along Fort Kochi and Vypeen are dotted with these nets.

Fort Kochi beach
A stroll along the beach, particularly at sunset with the chinese fishing nets and sailing ships in the background, is a memorable experience. Many European style bungalows can be seen along the shoreline. The coastal stretch has loads of small stalls, which make on demand mouth-watering traditional cuisines using freshly caught fish.

St. Francis Church, Fort Kochi
It is the oldest church built by Europeans in India. On his 3rd visit to Kerala, Vasco da Gama, the Portuguese trader who reached India from Europe by sea, fell ill and died in Kochi. He was buried in the St. Francis Church. Later his remains were taken back to Portugal. In spite of that, his burial spot inside the church has been clearly marked out.
» St. Francis Church

Vasco House, Fort Kochi
Vasco house, located on Rose Street, is believed to be one of the oldest Portuguese houses in India. Vasco da Gama is believed to have lived here. This house features European glass paned windows and verandahs.

Santa Cruz Basilica, Fort Kochi
The original church, situated in Fort Kochi, was built by the Portuguese in 1505 and named as a cathedral in 1558. The British colonists destroyed the cathedral in 1795. The current structure was built in 1905 and raised to the status of a basilica by Pope John Paul II in 1984.
» Santa Cruz Basilica

Jewish Synagogue and Jew Town, Mattancherry
The synagogue, built in 1568, is magnificently decorated by Chinese tiles and Belgian chandeliers. Giant scrolls of the Old Testament can be found here. It is located near the Dutch Palace in Mattancherry.





Dutch Palace (Mattancherry Palace), Mattancherry
The Dutch Palace was originally built by the Portuguese. Later, in 17th century, the Dutch modified it and presented it to the Raja of Kochi. Coronation of many Rajas of Kochi were held here. The palace has a fine collection of mural paintings depicting scenes from the Hindu epics Mahabharatha and Ramayana. The palace is located in Mattancherry.





Bolghatty Palace, Bolghatty Island
This Dutch palace is situated on Bolghatty island which is just a short boat ride away from the mainland. The palace has been converted to a hotel run by the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC). The island has a tiny golf course and the panoramic views of the port and the harbour, makes it an attractive picnic spot. Frequent boat service is available from the mainland.
» KTDC Bolghatty Palace Hotel

Hill Palace, Tripunithura
Built in the 19th century by the Raja of Kochi, this palace served as the seat of the Raja of the Kochi province. The palace has been converted into a museum displaying a fine collection of articles showing the wealth and splendour of the Rajas of Kochi, including the thone and the crown. The musuem also houses a large collection of archaeological findings. Hill Palace is located 16km east of Cochin in Tripunithura, a satellite town of Cochin.

Palliport (Pallipuram) Fort
It is the oldest surviving European fort in India, built by the Portuguese in 1503. Its situated in Pallipuram on Vypeen island.

Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary
Mangalavanam is a protected bird sanctuary situated right in the heart of Kochi city. It is the home of many exotic and rare varieties of migratory and resident birds. Mangalavanam is located right next to the High Court of Kerala.
» Mangalavanam, Kerala Forests & Wildlife

Museum of Kerala History, Kalamassery
The museum has on display spectacular audio-visual exhibits depicting the history and culture of Kerala along with many life size statues of many famous personalities and several paintings depicting Kerala history.
» Museum of Art and Kerala History



Parikshith Thampuran Museum
This Rajas of Cochin used to conduct their durbars in this impressive building located within the Durbar Hall grounds. It was later converted to a museum which has a treasure trove of archaeological findings and relics including old coins, sculptures, oil paintings and murals. The building has been taken over by the Kerala Lalitha Kala Academy and now houses the Gallery of Contemporary Art. All the exhibits of the museum have been moved to the Hill Palace museum.

Cherai Beach
This lovely beach ideal for swimming is located on the north end of Vypeen island, one of the many small islands just off the mainland. The beach is lined by gorgeous coconut groves and paddy fields. Vypeen can be reached by land or by boat.




Veega Land
Veega Land is South India's largest amusement park situated 14kms from Cochin. The park includes a range of attractions including mini castles, water theme park, ferris wheel, rides, slides, shows and fountains. Kids and adults alike can enjoy the fun and activities.
» Veega Land


Marine Drive
A stroll along the long tree-lined coastal pathway that lines the backwater is well worth the time spent, especially late afternoon or dusk. The bustling backwaters, dotted with fishing boats, speedboats, ships, tankers and passenger boats, can be observed from this walkway that lines the coast.



Willingdon Island
This man-made island was created in 1933 by sand dredged while deepening the backwaters for the Cochin Port, under the direction of Sir Robert Bristow. A while back the Airport, Sea port and the railway terminus (Cochin Harbour Terminus) were situated on this island. Today, it is the home of the Cochin Port and the headquarters of the Sourthern Naval Command. The airport continues to be the naval air station, while the main airport has been moved to Nedumbassery, 30kms north-east of Cochin. Most of the trains now terminate at Ernakulam Junction instead of Cochin Harbour Terminus.

Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Kaloor
The Nehru stadium in Kaloor, has a seating capacity of 60,000 in multiple tiers. It is the fourth largest stadium in India and the largest in Kerala. The ground is lit by a set of unique convex pylon floodlights that arch over the ground. The stadium is home to both the Kerala Ranji cricket team as well as FC Kochi football team.




Things to do
Boat ride
The backwaters separating Ernakulam from Fort Kochi and Mattanchery are dotted with many small and mid-sized islands. A boat ride through the backwaters is an unforgettable experience.

Kathakali performance
See India Foundation (Kalathiparambil Road, near the Ernakulam Junction railway station), The Cochin Cultural Centre (Manikath Road, behind Medical Trust Hospital) and Art Kerala (Kannanthodathu Lane, near Valanjambalam Temple) organises Kathakali performances every evening. Kathakali is a traditional danceform of Kerala and the impressive facial expressions, hand gestures and dance moves will leave one spellbound.




Tourist Spots (near Cochin)
Alleppey(Alapuzha)
Situated 63 kms south of Cochin along the coast, Alleppey is connected to Kochi by rail and road. It is called the Venice of the East due to the extensive canal network here. Every year the famous snake boat race is held here.
Cheruthuruthy
Cheruthuruthy is about 110 kms away from Kochi. It is the base of the Kerala Kalamandalam-the world famous art and dance academy where training in various traditional forms like Kathakali, Mohiniyattam etc are imparted.
Kalady
Situated 48 kms north-east of Kochi, on the banks of river Periyar (Poorna). Kalady is the birthplace of Sri Adi Sankaracharya, the monotheist Hindu philosopher. He lived in the 8th century AD and died at the early age of 32 years. He traveled throughout India, on foot, debating with scholars and spreading his theory of Advaita or monotheism. The Adi Sankara shrine and the 8-storey painted Adi Sankara Keerthi Sthambam (see picture) are a must-see for any visitor here.

Kodanad
Kodanad is 30 kms north-east of Kochi situated on the lower ranges of the Western Ghats on the banks of river Periyar. The wildlife reserve is famous for the elephants and the largest elephant training centre is situated here. The reserve also features a mini zoo. Kodanad is close to St. Thomas church in Malayatoor.
» Kodanad - Kerala Forests & Wildlife

Kodungalloor(Cranganore)
Kodungalloor is 35 kms north of Kochi. The world famous port here was destroyed by a flood which led to the formation of Kochi harbour. St. Thomas, the apostle, is believed to have landed here in 52 AD. Cheraman mosque, the first mosque in India, built in the form of a Hindu temple, is situated here.

Munnar
About 140 kms on NH49, Munnar is a hill resort ideal for a relaxing holiday away from the tropical lowlands. The tea gardens and cardamom plantations give Munnar a beautiful look. Anai Mudi, the highest peak in South India is in these hills. The Munnar - Kodaikanal (another hill resort) road is believed to be the steepest road in South-East Asia.

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Thekkady
Elephants, bisons, antelopes, samburs, monkeys and bears can be found in their natural habitat in this world famous wild life sanctuary, situated 190kms east of Cochin. A boat ride through the man-made lake in the heart of the sanctuary provides a unique opportunity to observe these animals in their natural surroundings.


Thattekad Bird Sanctuary
Thattekad bird sanctuary is located 60kms east of Cochin near Kothamangalam. Thattekad is located on the northern bank of river Periyar is a tropical evergreen forest in the foothills of the Wester Ghats. Spread over 25 sq kms, this bird sanctuary was once regarded as the richest bird habitat in peninsular India. In spite of recent developments and deforestation, this sanctuary is still home to a large number of rare and exotic bird species.

Lakshadweep
Lakshadweep (meaning thousand islands), a haven of unspoiled natural beauty, lies 220-440kms off the coast of Kochi. Lakshadweep is an archipelago consisting of 12 atolls, 3 reefs and 5 submerged banks. Only 10 islands are inhabited while 17 are uninhabited islands with a total geographical area of 32 sq. kms. Lakshadweep is connected to the mainland by air and sea links to Cochin. The sea route takes around 18-20 hours. Miles and miles of sandy beaches, coral reefs and coconut groves will leave anyone mesmerised.