Discovering Kerala

Wayanad

2011-01-22T15:09:00.000+05:30

Wayanad is a beautiful place, ideal for adventure tourism. Here, I have short listed some of the places worth visiting.
Chembra Peak

At a height of 2100 metres, the towering Chembra Peak is located near Meppadi in the southern part of Wayanad. It is the tallest of peaks in the region and climbing this peak would test ones physical prowess. The climb up the Chembra Peak is an exhilarating experience, as each stage in the climb unfolds great expanses of Wayanad and the view gets wider as one goes up to its summit. Going up and coming down the peak would take a full day. Those who would like camp at the top are assured of an unforgettable experience.

Those who require camping gear may contact the District Tourism Promotion Council, located at Kalpetta in Wayanad.

Neelimala

Located in the southeastern part of Wayanad, and approachable from Kalpetta as well as Sulthan Bathery, Neelimala is a trekkers delight, with options for different trekking routes. At the top of Neelimala, the sight is a breathtaking one with a view to the Meenmutty falls located near by and the valley in the foreground.

Meenmutty

Located close to Neelimala the spectacular Meenmutty falls can be reached through a 2 km trekking route from the main road connecting Ootty and Wayanad. It is the largest of waterfalls in the district of Wayanad, and adds to ones curiosity with its three stage falls dropping from about 300 metres.

Chethalayam

Yet another waterfall that attracts visitors to Wayanad is the Chethalayam falls, located close to Sulthan Bathery in the northern part of Wayanad. This waterfall is smaller in size when compared to Meenmutty. The falls and the adjoining areas are ideal locales for trekking and a haunt for bird watchers.

Pakshipathalam
Pakshipathalam is located deep within the forest in the Brahmagiri hills at an altitude of more than 1700 metres. The region predominantly comprises large boulders, some of them really massive. The deep caves found here are home to a wide variety of birds, animals and distinctive species of plants. Pakshipathalam is located near Mananthavady and a visit to the region would require a 7 km trek through the forest, starting from Thirunelli. Visitors to Pakshipathalam are to seek permission from the DFO- North Wayanad.

Banasura Sagar Dam

The dam at Banasura Sagar is reckoned as the largest earth dam in India. The dam is located in the southwestern part of Wayanad district and is close to the Karalad Lake. The project area of the Banasura Sagar Dam also has the start point for treks to the Banasura Peak. An interesting feature is a set of islands that were formed when the reservoir submerged the surrounding areas.

While you take in the captivating sights, sounds and fragrance of Wayanad, you may also shop for some specialities of Wayanad like spices, coffee, tea, bamboo products, honey and herbal plants.

For more details on 'Outdoor Trail' in Wayanad, please get in touch with Wayanad Tourism Organization.

Address
General SecretaryWayanad Tourism Organisation
Vasudeva Edom, Pozhuthana PO,
Wayanad, Kerala
India.
Pin - 673575
Tel. +91-4936-255308, Fax.+91-4936-227341
E-mail: mail@wayanad.org

Agasthyakoodam

2010-11-16T13:36:00.003+05:30

Agasthyakoodam the second highest peak in Kerala, having a height of 1890 mts above sea level is a part of the Sahyadri mountain range. Resembling a sharp cone, it is located 70 Kms North East of Thiruvananthapuram.The mountain is revered by both Buddhists and Hindus, as it is believed to be the abode of the Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara as well as of the sage Agastya, a disciple of Shiva.

A haven for rare herbs and medicinal plants, its slopes are a breathtaking sight when they transform into bluish glades of the 'Neelakurinji', a flower which blooms only once in twelve years.

In 1992, an area of around 23 sq kms was established as Agasthya Vanam Biological Park. The intention was to replenish the degraded forests and to use it for educational purposes.

Women are not allowed up the peak. The aboriginals here believe that sage Agasthya, a mythological character who lived here was a confirmed bachelor, hence he dislikes the presence of strange women. The season from December 2'nd week to February is advocated for trekking for which a forest pass has to be obtained from the Wildlife Warden, Forest Dept., P.T.P.Nagar, Thiruvananthapuram.

Location
70 km from Thiruvananthapuram.

Getting there
Nearest railway station: Thiruvananthapuram central
Nearest airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport

Kovalam

2010-10-30T22:03:00.001+05:30

Kovalam is an internationally renowned beach with three adjacent crescent beaches. It has been a favourite destination of tourists, especially Europeans, since the 1930s. A massive rocky peninsula on the beach has created a beautiful bay of calm waters ideal for sea bathing.

Backed by precipitously mounting headlands and covered by green coconut palms, the beaches, especially the southern most part of lighthouse beach. It is also lined with a host of shops and shacks offering all kinds of services; creating a wonderful resort atmosphere. Curio shops, hawkers of Kashmiri and Tibetan products, moneychangers and beachwear shops, between the surplus of restaurants and hotels, do brisk business during peak tourist season.

The leisure options at this beach are plenty and diverse. Sunbathing, swimming, herbal body toning massages, special cultural programmes and catamaran cruising are some of them. The tropical sun acts so fast that one can see the faint blush of coppery tan on the skin in a matter of minutes. Life on the beach begins late in the day and carries on well into the night. The beach complex includes a string of budget cottages, Ayurvedic health resorts, convention facilities, shopping zones, swimming pools, Yoga and Ayurvedic massage centres.

Best time to visit: September to March, though it is an all-year-round destination.

Location: 16 km from Thiruvananthapuram city, South Kerala.

Getting there:

Nearest railway station: Thiruvananthapuram Central, about 16 km.
Nearest airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, about 10 km.

Munnar

2010-10-29T13:18:00.008+05:30

It is one of the attractions that contribute to Kerala's popularity as a travel destination among domestic and foreign travellers. Situated at the confluence of three mountain streams - Nallathanni, Muthirapuzha and Kundala, and situated about 1600 m above sea level, the hill station of Munnar once used to be the summer resort of the British administrators in south India.

This hill station is marked by vast expanses of tea plantations, colonial bungalows, rivulets, waterfalls and cool weather. It is also an ideal destination for trekking and mountain biking.

The main attractions arond Munnar are:
Eravikulam National Park
Located about 15 km from Munnar, this park is famous for its endangered inhabitant - the Nilgiri Tahr. Spread over an area of 97 sq. km., this park is also home to several species of rare butterflies, birds and animals. A great place for trekking, the park offers a magnificent view of the tea plantations and also the rolling hills caressed by blankets of mists. The park becomes a hot destination when the hill slopes here get covered in a carpet of blue, resulting from the flowering of Neelakurinji. It is a plant endemic to this part of the Western Ghats which blooms once in twelve years. The last time it bloomed was in 2006.
Anamudi Peak
Located inside the Eravikulam National Park is the Anamudi Peak. This is the highest peak in south India standing at a height of over 2700 m. Treks to the peak are allowed with permission from Forest and Wildlife authorities at Eravikulam.
Mattupetty

Another place of interest, located about 13 km from Munnar Town, is Mattupetty. Lying at a height of 1700 m above sea level, Mattupetty is known for its storage masonry dam and the beautiful lake, which offers pleasurable boat rides, enabling one to enjoy the surrounding hills and landscape. Mattupetty's fame is also attributed to the dairy farm run by the Indo-Swiss Livestock Project, where one would come across different high yielding breeds of cows. Mattupetty with its lush green tea plantations, rolling grasslands and the Shola forests is also ideal for trekking and is home to a variety of birds.
Pallivasal
Pallivasal, located at about 3 km from Chithirapuram in Munnar is the venue of the first Hydro-electric project in Kerala. It is a place of immense scenic beauty, often favoured by visitors as a picnic spot.
Chinnakanal
Near the town of Munnar is Chinnakanal and the waterfalls, cascade down a steep rock 2000 m above sea level. The spot is enriched with the scenic view of the Western Ghat ranges.
Anayirangal
When you have traveled about seven kilometers from Chinnakanal, you reach Anayirangal. Anayirangal is 22 km from Munnar, is a lush green carpet of tea plants. A trip on the splendid reservoir is an unforgettable experience. The Anayirangal dam is surrounded by tea plantations and evergreen forests.
Top Station
Top Station, which is about 3 km from Munnar is at a height of 1700 m above sea level. It is the highest point on the Munnar-Kodaikanal road. Travellers to Munnar make it a point to visit Top Station to enjoy the panoramic view it offers of the neighbouring state of Tamil Nadu. It is one of the spots in Munnar to enjoy the Neelakurunji flowers blooming over a vast area.
Tea Museum
Munnar has a legacy of its own when to comes to the origins and evolution of tea plantations. Taking account of this legacy and to preserve and showcase some of the exquisite and interesting aspects on the genesis and growth of tea plantations in Kerala's high ranges, a museum exclusively for tea was opened some years ago by Tata Tea in Munnar. This Tea Museum houses curios, photographs and machineries; all of which have a story to tell on the origins and growth of tea plantation in Munnar. The museum is located at the Nallathanni Estate of Tata Tea in Munnar and is worth a visit.
Getting there:
Nearest railway stations: Theni (Tamil Nadu), about 60 km away; Changanacherry, about 93 km away.
Nearest airports: Madurai (Tamil Nadu), about 140 km away; Cochin International Airport, about 190 km away.

Bekal Fort

2010-10-26T21:10:00.003+05:30

The imposing fort at Bekal, Kasargod is one of the largest and best preserved forts in Kerala. The beautiful expanse of the shallow beach near the Bekal fort known as Bekal Fort Beach has been developed as an exotic beach location by the Bekal Resorts Development Corporation (BRDC).

The Bekal Fort appears to have been built up from the sea, since almost three fourth of its exteriors is drenched and the waves continually stroke the citadel. The Mukhyaprana Temple of Hanuman and the ancient Muslim Mosque nearby bear testimony to the age-old religious harmony that prevailed in the area. The zigzag entrance and the trenches around the fort show the defense strategy inherent in the fort.

It can be assumed that Bekal fort was not a center of administration because no remains of any palace, mansion or such buildings are found within the fort. Arguably the fort was built exclusively for fulfilling defense requirements. The holes on the outer walls of the fort are specially designed to defend the fort effectively. The holes at top were meant for aiming at the farthest points; the holes below for striking when the enemy was nearer and the holes underneath facilitated attacking when the enemy was very near to the fort. This is a remarkable evidence of technology in defense strategy.

Bekal Fort happens to be the biggest fort of Kerala spreading over forty acres. The important features of this fort are the tank with its flight of steps, the opening of the tunnel towards the South, the magazine for keeping ammunition and the broad and wide steps leading to the Observation Tower is a rarity. From there one has ample view of all the important places in the vicinity like Kanhangad, Pallikare, Bekal, Kottikulam Uduma etc. This observation centre has strategic significance in finding out even the smallest movements of the enemy and ascertaining the safety of the Fort.

Beautification: Installation of two sculptures of Theyyam created using laterite on the beach and a shed the walls of which are adorned with murals created by artisans from Nilambur has added to the beauty of the fort. Apart from these a rock garden at the parking area has been developed where laterite boulders of various sizes have been utilised. Under the social forestry scheme, trees have been planted in the beach area.

Parking facilities: The BRDC has developed about 7000 sq. m of land for parking different types of vehicles.

Walkway: A beautiful walkway has been laid for the visiting tourists to explore the beauty of the fine coastline and enjoy the panoramic view of the Bekal Fort.

Illumination: The beach gets illuminated during the evening hours so that tourists can spend more time at the beach even after the sun sets.

Resting facilities: Multi shed and Eru madam would provide the tourists enough facilities to take rest and enjoy the sea breeze in the most natural ways. By using locally available materials seating arrangements have been provided for the tourists at the beach.

Toilets: Toilets have been provided for the use of tourists and eco-friendly bamboo waste bins have been provided in the entire beach site for keeping the area clean.

Children's park: A park has been developed here for children below 14 years.

Getting there:

Nearest railway station: Kasaragod, on the Kozhikode-Mangalore-Mumbai route.
Nearest airport: Mangalore, about 50 km from Kasaragod town; Karipur International Airport, Kozhikode, about 200 km from Kasaragod town.

National Institute Of Technology. Calicut

2010-10-21T17:32:00.000+05:30

Name Of College: National Institute Of Technology
Location Calicut, Kerala, India
Type : Institute of National Importance
Campus: 420 acres (1.7 km2), Rural/Semi-Urban
Director: G.R.C. Reddy

Website: www.nitc.ac.in

Description: A world class institute which aims at developing high quality technical education and personnel with a sound footing on basic engineering principles, technical and managerial skills, innovative research capabilities, and exemplary professional conduct to lead and to use technology for the progress of mankind, adapting themselves to changing technological environment with the highest ethical values as the inner strength.

NITC is a federally funded technical university established by an act of the Indian Parliament, located at Kattangal in Chathamangalam which is situated about 22 km north-east of Kozhikode (Calicut) City in Kerala, India. It was formerly known as Calicut Regional Engineering College (CREC). NITC is one of the twenty National Institutes of Technology - one in each major state of India - established by the Government of India for fostering national integration by imparting technical education to students from all over the country. NITC is among the very few institutions in the country to boast a Supercomputer of its own.

Maharaja's College, Ernakulam

2010-10-16T19:03:00.001+05:30

Name of College : Maharaja's College, Ernakulam
Type of College : Government
Address : Ernakulam, Kochi, Pincode : 681011, Kerala, Phone : 0484-2352838, 2363038, Fax : 0484-2363038.
Website: www.maharajascollege.com

Description : Established in 1875 by the then Maharaja(King) of Kochi, Maharaja`s College is the biggest centers of learning and higher education in the state of Kerala. The college has unmatched infrastructure and is situated at the heart of Ernakulam. It is a special grade college affiliated to Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam and placed under Section2(f) by the University Grants Commission (UGC). It is accredited by National Assessment and Accreditation Council in 1999 at the level of three Stars. The college was selected for the R. Sankar Award for the best Arts and Science College in 1996-97.

Oppana

2010-10-16T18:44:00.001+05:30

Oppana is a popular form of social entertainment among the Mappila community of Kerala. It is essentially performed in weddings and festivities of the Malabar Muslims. Maidens and young female relatives sing and dance around the bride, clapping their hands. The bride dressed in all finery, covered with gold ornaments and her palms and feet adorned with an intricately woven pattern of mylanchi (henna), sits amidst the circle as the chief spectator. The songs of Oppana(Mappilappattu), are first sung by the leader and are repeated by the chorus. The themes are often teasing comments and innuendoes about the bride's anticipated nuptial bliss. Oppana is often presented as a stage item today.

Mohiniyattam

2010-10-15T14:31:00.001+05:30

South Indian dance from Kerala and one of the eight Indian classical dance forms Mohiniyattam is considered a very graceful dance meant to be performed as a solo recital by women.l The sinuous dance of the enchantress, this is a distinctive classical dance form of Kerala. Slow, graceful, swaying movements of the body and limbs and highly emotive eye and hand gestures are unique to this dance form. The simple, elegant gold-brocaded dress, in pure white or ivory, is akin to the traditional attire of the women of Kerala.

The origin of Mohiniyattom is rooted in Hindu mythology. Once the ocean of milk was churned by the gods and demons to extract the elixir of life and immortality. The demons made away with this divine brew.

Lord Vishnu came to the rescue of the panicky gods and assumed the female form of an amorous celestial dame Mohini. Captivating the demons with her charms, Mohini stole the elixir from them and restored it to the gods. This dance was adopted by the Devadasi or temple dancers, hence also the name 'Dasiattam' which was very popular during the Chera reign from 9th to 12th century.

Kathakali

2010-10-14T19:31:00.009+05:30

Kerala owes its transnational fame to this nearly 300 years old classical dance form which combines facets of ballet, opera, masque and the pantomime. It is said to have evolved from other performing arts like Kootiyattam, Krishnanattam and Kalarippayattu. Kathakali explicates ideas and stories from the Indian epics and Puranas.

Presented in the temple precincts after dusk falls, Kathakali is heralded by the Kelikottu or the beating of drums and to the accompaniment of the Chengila (gong). The riches of a happy blending of colour, expressions, music, drama and dance are unparallelled in any other art form.

Kathakali Make-up

Cotume is elaborate with the face painted up. Great importance is laid on the Vesham or make-up which are of five types - Pacha, Kathi, Thadi, Kari and Minukku.

The pomp and magnificence of Kathakali is partly due to its décor, part of which is the kireetam or huge headgear and the kanchukam the over sized jackets, and a long skirt worn over a thick padding of cushions. The identity of the actor is completely mutilated to create a super human being of larger-than-life proportion.
Pacha (Green)
Pacha Vehsam or the green make-up portray noble protagonists or a divine character. .

King Nalan from Nalacharitham, Lord Rama, Arjuna etc are examples.

Kathi (Knife)
Kathi Vesham portrays villainous characters. kamsa in Kamsa Vadham. is a 'kathi vesham'.

Thadi (Beard)
There are three types of bearded or Thadi Veshams.

"Vella Thadi" or White beard. Superhuman monkeys like Hanuman, and Nandikeswara are characterized by this role.
"Chuvanna Thadi" or Red beard meant for evil characters. The most ferocious and cruel characters appear in Chuvanna thadi vesham. Usually Rakshasas (demons), Asuras (according to Indian mythology Asuras live on earth and represent evil and Devas live in heaven and represent goodness), and certain kings use Chuvanna thadi as they are all cruel and shrewd characters.
"Karutha Thadi" or Black beard for the hunter.

Kari (Black)

Kari Vesham is used for she-demons. It also represents low characters.

Minukku

Minukku(Prettying Up)
The "Minukku Vesham" is used for female characters and sages. The term is associated with beauty.

Mudra
Mudra is a stylized sign language used to depict an idea, a situation or a state of being. A Kathakali actor enacts his ideas through mudras. For this the actor follows a systematic sign language based on Hastalakshana Deepika, a treatise on the language of hand gestures.There are 24 Basic Mudras in the Hasthalakshana Deepika. There are 'Asamyutha Mudras' (that is shown using single hand) and 'Samyutha Mudras' (mudras shown in double hands) in each Basic Mudras, to show different symbols. Considering all these Mudras and their seperations there are totally 470 symbols used in Kathakali.

Kathakali Music

The language of the songs used for Kathakali is Manipravalam. Though most of the songs are set in ragas based on the microtone-heavy Carnatic music, there is a distinct style of plain-note rendition, which is known as the Sopanam style. This typically Kerala style of rendition takes its roots from the temples. Kathakali orchestra is formed of two varieties of drums - the maddalam and chenda; the chengila which is a bell metal gong and the ilathalam or cymbals.

Kathakali Training
Students of Kathakali have to undergo rigorous training replete with oil massages and separate exercises for eyes, lips, cheeks, mouth and neck. Abhinaya or expression is of prime importance as is nritya or dance and geetham or singing.

Together with highly evocative facial expressions, the mudras and the music both vocal and instrumental, Kathakali unfolds stories from a bygone era in a lofty style reminiscent of the Greek plays. Kerala Kalamandalam is the prominent institution imparting Kathakali training in the traditional way.

Sree Subramanya Swami Temple, Perunna

2010-10-14T18:23:00.001+05:30

Located 20 km from Kottayam, Perunna Muruga Temple is the place where a Very Ugra Bhava of Lord Subrahmanya is worshipped.The idol of Lord Muruga of this temple unique. There is a specialty in this idol, comparing with other idols in temples. The Vel which the Lord is holding is pointed downwards. Muruga is worshipped here in the bhava of "devasenapathi" and he is in a very angry mood as he had just killed 'Tharakasura". The main festival is Pallivetta utsavam (November - December)

Siva Temple, Vaikom

2010-10-14T18:13:00.001+05:30

Situated 40 km away from Kottayam, the temple is associated with the legendary Parasurama. This temple is a typical example of the Kerala style of temple architecture. More popular as the Kasi of the South, this temple is famous for its elephant pageants and traditional art performances.

Annual festival: Vaikathashtami (November/December)

Kerala Tourism Your Moment Is Waiting

2010-10-13T12:31:00.000+05:30

Kerala Tourism's international campaign, Your Moment Is Waiting is a film that goes far beyond the realm of a commercial, to capture the soul of Kerala like no destination hitherto has. Stark Communications, which has been handling the Kerala Tourism brand for almost two decades, conceived, scripted and then assigned the task of creating this film to the renowned ad film maker Prakash Varma. Watch the beauty of my Kerala...

Sree Krishna College

2010-10-12T22:33:00.002+05:30

Name of College : Sree Krishna College, Guruvayoor
Type of College : Government
Address : Ariyannur P.O., Guruvayoor, Thrissur - 680102, Phone: 4885-239013,235027.
Management : Guruvayur Devasom.
Website: www.sreekrishnacollege.org

Description : Sree Krishna College, Guruvayoor was established in 18th July 1964. The college is managed by Guruvayur Devasom board. On February 28th, 2005 the college was nationally accredited for a period of 5 years at B++ Level by National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC), an autonomous institution of university grants commission. The college is affiliated to University Of Calicut.

Sree Narayana College

2010-10-12T22:29:00.003+05:30

Name of College : Sree Narayana College, Chempazhanthy
Type of College : Government
Address : Chempazhanthy, Thiruvananthapuram-695587, Phone: 0471-2592077,2596629, Fax: 0474-2596629.
Management : Sree Narayana Trusts, Kollam.
Website: www.sncollegechempazhanthy.org

Description : Sree Narayana College, Chempazhanthy was established by the Sree Narayana Trusts, Kollam, in memorial obeisance to the great social reformer and seer, Sree Narayana Guru. The Sree Narayana College Chempazhanthy, was formally inaugurated on 20 July 1964, by Sri. R. Sankar the then Chief Minister of Kerala. The college was evaluated and assessed by the NAAC, an autonomous institution of the UGC. The executive committee of the NAAC awarded B+ level to the college.

Sree Neelakanta Government Sanskrit College

2010-10-12T22:25:00.001+05:30

Name of College : Sree Neelakanta Government Sanskrit College
Type of College : Government
Address : Pattambi P.O., Pincode : 679306, Phone : 0466-2212223, Fax : 0466-2212223.
Management : Government of Kerala.
Website: www.sngscollege.info

Description : Sree Neelakanta Government Sanskrit College, Pattambi had its beginning as a Sanskrit School in 1889 started by the celebrated Sanskrit Scholar, the late Sri. Punnasseri Nambi Neelakanta Sarma. SNGS is a college affiliated to the Calicut University. The college is recognised as a Centre of Excellence in the field of Higher Education by the Govt. of Kerala. Recently the college was awarded with five Star Accreditation by NAAC.

N.S.S. Training College

2010-10-12T21:40:00.002+05:30

Name of College : N.S.S. Training College, Changanacherry
Type of College : Government
Address : Changanacherry, Kottayam, Pincode : 686 102, Phone : 0481 - 420481.
Website: www.nsstcchry.org

Description : N.S.S. Training college Changanacherry, Kottayam district , Kerala was estsablished in the year 1954 by Nair Service Society , the biggest corporate educational agency in Kerala. It is an aided college affiliated to the Mahatma Gandhi, Kottayam and is managed by Nair Service Society . The college comes under control of the Zonal Deputy Director of Collegiate Education, Kottayam. The institution is recognized by NCTE and accredited with B ++ level by the National Assessement and Accreditation Council.

Govt. Victoria College

2010-10-12T21:36:00.001+05:30

Name of College : Govt. Victoria College, Palakkad
Type of College : Government
Address : Palakkad, Pin : 678001, Phone : 0491-2576773, 2576780, Fax : 0491-2578130.
Website: www.victoriacollege.in

Description : Government Victoria College, Palakkad was started as a rate school in 1866, financed by local governments. The college is affiliated to the University of Calicut and has been recognised under Sn.2(f) by UGC (Vide. UGC Act 1966). The college has been declared a Centre of Excellence by the Department of Higher Education, Government of Kerala. The college has been reaccredited with A grade by the NAAC in 2008.

Kumarakom

2010-10-12T21:28:00.003+05:30

Location: 16 km away from Kottayam town, Central Kerala.

The village of Kumarakom is a cluster of little islands on the Vembanad Lake, 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, teals, waterfowls, cuckoo, wild duck and migratory birds like the Siberian Stork visit here in flocks and are a fascinate the 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.

Waterscapes, the backwater resort of the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation has independent cottages built on stills, set amidst coconut groves and panoramic view of the backwaters. Holiday packages involving houseboats, traditional Kettuvalloms (rice barges) offer great experiences.

Getting there:

Nearest railway station: Kottayam, about 16 km.
Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, about 76 km from Kottayam town.

Sasthamkotta Lake

2010-10-12T21:26:00.004+05:30

Sasthamkotta, situated about 29 km from Kollam town, can be rightly called the 'Queen of Lakes'. This vast fresh water lake flanked by hills on three sides is the largest of its kind in Kerala. The ancient Sastha Temple, which lends its name to the town, is an important pilgrim centre. This temple dedicated to both Lord Ganesha and Lord Ayyappa is surrounded by hills and forests, and the monkeys inhabiting the premises are considered holy. The monkeys of Sasthamkotta are believed to be the faithful entourage of the ruling deity, the Dharmasastha and therefore they have a spiritual ambience about them. The monkeys are devotee-friendly, and the thousands of devotees visiting the temple take pleasure in feeding these monkeys with nuts and fruits.

Getting there:

Nearest railway station: Kollam, about 29 km away.
Nearest airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, about 71 km from Kollam.

Kuttanad

2010-10-12T21:19:00.002+05:30

It is the major rice granary of Kerala, where vast stretches of verdant paddy fields are interlaced with enchanting backwaters create some of the unforgettable sights.

Kuttanad, the rice bowl of Kerala is all about an agrarian community, striking a chord of harmony with its physical setting. Noted for its farming below sea level (about 4 to 10 feet) the land of Kuttanad possesses a socio-cultural fabric of its own. Four major rivers in Kerala viz. Pampa, Meenachil, Achankovil and Manimala flow into the region.

Kuttanad can be accessed from places on the National Highway- 47 from Harippad to Alappuzha town in the District of Alappuzha, and from places like Thiruvalla and Changanasserry on the Main Central (MC) Road going through the District of Kottayam.

The most popular route taken to get close and explore Kuttanad is the Alappuzha-Changanasserry road. This road goes through the heart of Kuttanad and gives visitors plenty of options to watch the day-to-day life at Kuttanad. The best thing for a visitor to Kuttanad is that, one can take deviations from either side of the Alappuzha-Chanaganasserry road to reach villages, predominantly consisting of farmers. During the harvest season the vast expanse of paddy fields, at some places dotted with islets of coconut trees, will be busy with farmers engrossed in different farming activities;done in the traditional manner. Quite early in the morning itself one can sight the women folk heading towards the paddy fields carrying their lunch box and sickle, and on the other hand men could be seen already on the fields till the land, sowing the seeds, getting rid of weeds, diverting water channels etc.

The Kuttanad area is also rich in avian population, and one can easily find flocks of parrots hovering in the paddy fields, especially those fields with rice stalks in bloom. You may also come across a black blanket sweeping across the sky, which on close look will reveal as yet another flock of birds. And this time its is the darter birds, which haunt the backwaters in and around Kuttanad and the adjoining Vembanad Lake.

As you explore the villages, don't forget to take a walk by the numerous canals that crisscross Kuttanad, which are lined by tall coconut trees swaying in the breeze. During most part of the day, these canal stretches would be abuzz with different activities. There will be vendors on boat selling vegetables, grocery and fish to households on the banks of these canals. You would also come across big country boats called Kettu Vallams on which goods like coconut husk, rice grains etc. are transported to nearby markets in bulk. Among the sights on the backwaters here at Kuttanad, the most fascinating obviously is that of the ducks, quacking together in high decibels and moving across the backwaters in large numbers;shepherded by men on small boats. One can also catch men plying on the backwater;some diving down to collect lime shells from the depths and others fishing with their nets and traditional cane basket called Ottal.

For those interested in trying out few local dishes may do so by dropping at the small traditionally built wayside eateries, which are quite famous for backwater fish delicacies and tapioca. A popular naturally extracted beverage is the toddy, which is available in plenty and enjoyed by many for its speciality.

You may also find Kuttanad, a bit more exciting, if you hire a boat. You can hire motorboats, houseboats etc. from the boat jetty operated by the government as well as private groups near the KSRTC Bus Station at Alappuzha or else may get on one from places like Kidangara, which is on the Alappuzha-Changanasserry road. Some of the places worth visiting in the Kuttanad area are Nedumudy, Kaavalam, Champakkulam etc.

Getting there:

Nearest railway station: Alappuzha.
Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, Nedumbassery, about 85 km from Alappuzha.

Kodungalloor

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The small country town of Kodungalloor is situated 35 km South of Thrissur. Kodungallur situated on the West coast, was once a great port of the Chera rulers of Tamilnadu. It was known by the Greek as the Muziris and is a place immersed in rich history. Kodungalloor is surrounded by backwaters and the sea is also famous as Cranganore and has an illustrious past. It is said to be the place where St. Thomas first preached Christianity in India.

Cheraman Juma Masjid: This mosque in Kodungalloor resembles a Hindu temple in appearance. It was earlier made of wood. Built in 629 A.D., this is the first mosque in India where Juma prayers were started. Recent changes have been made and it now has concrete minarets. The interiors remain wooden with a Kerala oil lamp right in the centre. This lamp is of great significance to people of all religions. Some of them bring oil for the lamp on the auspicious occasion of major family events.

Kodungalloor Bhagawati Temple: The Bhagawati Temple at Kodungallur is of great renown throughout Kerala. The Bharani festival at the Kodungallur Bhagawati Temple is one of the grandest in Kerala. It is a month of festivities from the Bharani asterism in the month of Aquarius to seven days after the Bharani asterism in the month of Pisces. During this occasion, one can also witness the largest congregation of oracles, not seen anywhere in Kerala.

The Bharani festival also witnesses the offering of worship to the deity in the innermost sanctum by those belonging to castes other than the priestly class. One day before the final Bharani, the Chandanapodi Chartal or the smearing of the image with sandal paste is carried out.

St.Thomas Church: Christ's apostle St Thomas is believed to have landed in Kodungalloor (formerly called Muziris) in 52 AD. The St.Thomas Church established by him houses ancient relics.

St. Thomas is portrayed in the gospels as a courageous and challenging personality. He had preached the gospel from Ethiopia to China. Many a church in West Asia considers him as the father of its faith. At Kodungalloor, he established the first Christian church in India and is the architect behind other Churches in Kerala: Kodungallur, Kottakkavu, Palayur, Kollam, Kokkamangalam, Niranam and Nilackal.

Other places of interest nearby Kodungalloor include Cheramanparambu, the ancient Thiruvanchikulam Temple, and the Portuguese Fort.

Getting there:

By road: You can reach Kodungallur from Thrissur's Shakthan Thampuran stand.

Nearest railway station: Irinjalakuda, about 20 km.

Nearest airport: Nedumbaserry International Airport at Kochi, about 60 km.

Kottakkal Arya Vaidya Shala

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Kottakkal Arya Vaidya Sala (AVS) is a century old Charitable Institution engaged in the practice and propagation of Ayurveda, the ancient health care system of India. Arya Vaidya Sala offers classical Ayurvedic medicines and authentic Ayurvedic treatments and therapies to patients from all over India and abroad.

AVS was established at Kottakkal in Kerala State of India in 1902 by the visionary physician and philanthropist,late Vaidyaratnam P.S. Varier. Started essentially as a village clinic, it has now grown into a multi-unit, multi-disciplinary and multi-crore organisation. It has operations in different areas of Ayurvedic practice.

AVS manages Ayurvedic Hospitals at Kottakkal, Delhi and Kochi. All classical Ayurvedic medicines, therapies and expert medical advice are available there. AVS has two modern medicine manufacturing units, has well equipped quality control labs, has fullfledged research activities, publishes Ayurvedic periodicals and books, cultivates medicinal plants and conducts educational programmes. AVS also runs a Kathakali academy where the classical theatre of Kathakali is taught and performed.

Website: www.aryavaidyasala.com

Padmanabha Swamy Temple

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Located inside the East Fort, this temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is a blend of the Kerala and Dravidian styles of architecture. One among the 108 sacred Vishnu temples in India, the presiding deity here is Lord Vishnu reclining on Anantha, the Serpent. The idol, plated in gold and made out of a rare composition known as katu-sarkara-yogam, is acclaimed as a marvel. It is also noted for its mural paintings and stone carvings. Only Hindus are allowed inside the temple.

(Open 0415 - 0515 hrs, 0645 - 0715 hrs, 0830 - 1115 hrs, 1145 - 1200 hrs, 1700 - 1815 hrs, 1845 - 1930 hrs)

Dress code: Men - Dhoti without any upper clothing; Women - Saree or full skirt and blouse; Handbags, mobile phones, cameras etc. not allowed. Ph: 2450233

Website: padmanabhaswamytemple.org

Kadampuzha

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(3 km north of Vettichira on the highway connecting Kozhikode and Thrissur) Kadampuzha is famous for its Bhagavathy temple said to have been set up by Sree Sankaracharya, the philosopher.