Trips Tours Travels Blog

The Basilica of Our Lady of Ransom, Vallarpadam-Ernakulam

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Edu & his new Companion -

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San-Paul-Ur - The Village of St. Paul

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Sampaloor, by the side of the Chalakudy River is known as the Goa of Kerala. Rightfully called so, this place, like Goa witnessed the arrival of a series of clergy. This comprised St. Francis Xavier, St. John Britto, Fr. Joseph Constantine Buski (Veeramamunivar) and Arnos Pathiri. Among them, the first to arrive at Sampaloor was St. Francis Xavier, who came via Marankuzhi, a place located in Kodungalloor (former Muziris). His visits, as per records, were in 1542, 1544, and 1548. At that time the Muziris harbour (present day Kodungalloor) connected India to foreign countries via the sea.

Sampaloor was an important center of Jesuits during the time of the Portuguese. Some of the structures still stand testimony to the works of the Jesuits in Sampaloor. They include the St. Paul's Seminary, the St. Paul's Monastery and the St. Paul's Press and a church dedicated to St. Francis Xavier. Gradually San-paul-ur became Sampaloor. Half way through the 17th century St. John Britto, an Italian missionary, came to Sampaloor and lived there for nearly one year. He studied Tamil and Sanskrit and adopted an Indian name - Swamy Arulananda. The altar of St. Francis Xavier's church at which St. John Britto used to celebrate the holy mass is now a protected historical monument.

Another member of the clergy, who made his presence felt at Sampaloor after St. John Britto was Arnos Pathiri, who studied at the St. Paul's Seminary and later got ordained there. He made remarkable contributions to the Malayalam literature through his book 'Puthen Pana.' Next to follow was Fr. Joseph Constantine Buski (Veeramamunivar). He came to Sampaloor, while serving in Madurai Mission and later lived there. Fr. Buski's final resting place is also at Sampaloor.

The first printing in Malayalam was done at the St. Paul's Press in Sampaloor, which was set up by Jesuit Priests in 1663. The dictionary of 'Prinsa Pathiri,' Tamil grammar of Dacosta Pathiri, and the books of Dinobili were printed in this press. Sampaloor thus became a great centre for language-nurturing in south India.

The arrival of the clergymen to Sampaloor in the mid 16th century and the developments that took place all later became part of the ecclesiastical history of Kerala. Sampaloor also went through an unfortunate phase in the course of its history, when it was devastated in an attack by Tipu Sultan, who was fighting the British during the middle periods of the 18th century. Later, the church got reconstructed during the time of Bernadian Bechinelly, who was the vicar apostolate of Varapuzha in 1862. The present church was blessed in 1979.

Historical museum of Sampaloor

When samaploor was the centre of Jesuit Mission there were St. Paul's seminary, St, Paul's Press, St. Paul's Monastery and St. Francis Xavier's Church which were destroyed by Tipu the invader. the Cannon balls used during the time of Tipu, holy vestments of the priests of the Monastery, Tablets that describe the old liturgical order, instruments used to make the hosts, Tabernacle of the old church, statues of saints made of wood and metals, Lamps used for adoration, lamp-sticks, the Cross made of metal belongs to 15Th century and ''Vazhuthayodukal" of the same century are some of the attractions of this Museum.

Anglo-Indian Cultural museum

A sight of Anglo-Indian wedding ceremony, Anglo-Indian Traditional dress for women and men such as Kabaya, Madirasi thuny, a collection of coat, Suit, tie, bohatt, their traditional ornaments like Cothigna, Arulikka mala, Pinnu mala, Wedding ring, and their traditional foods are some of the sights inside this museum.

Contact details:

St. Francis Xavier Church

Sampaloor
Palayamparambu P.O.

Pin - 680 741

Ph: +91 480 2719079

Website: www.sampaloorchurch.org

Getting there

Nearest railway station: Chalakkudy, about 7 km

Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, about 25 km

The Basilica of Our Lady of Ransom, Vallarpadam-Ernakulam

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 16 Aug 2016 02:53:00 +0000

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The Basilica of Our Lady of Ransom, Vallarpadam-Ernakulam is a famous centre of pilgrimage. People from all parts of Kerala and outside, irrespective of caste or creed go to the church to seek the blessings of Mary, the mother of Jesus, popularly known as "Vallarpadathamma".

Present Vallarpadam Church

This is an ancient Christian Church built in 1524. Portuguese merchants headed by Vasco da Gama enthroned this miraculous picture of Our lady of Ransom at the shrine. The church was dedicated to the Holy Spirit, which was the first of its kind in Asia. The beautiful church was however destroyed by a heavy flood in 1676. The church was re-established in 1676 and the famous picture of the Blessed Virgin Mary was erected by Portuguese who brought it from their native land. The picture is believed to have miraculous powers. The Portuguese built the first church on the site of the present church in 1524. It was destroyed in a flood in the late 17th century and a new church was built on the same spot in 1676. It was declared a special church by PopeLeo XIII in 1888 and in 1951 the Union Government declared it a major pilgrim centre.

Old Vallarpadam Church

Vallarpadath Amma is believed to have miraculously saved her devotees several time from violent storms. The feast of Vallarpadath Amma is held every year on September 24 with much fanfare. The celebrations, which last for more than a week, are accompanied by an unusually big fair.

The Roman Catholic Church has raised the historic Marian pilgrimage destination on the Vallarpadam Island to the status of a National Pilgrim Centre.

Vallarpadam is situated next to Bolgatty Island on the west, and linked to the Ernakulam mainland via the new Goshree bridges. It is about 3.5 kilometers (2.2 mi) in length in the north-south direction and hosts a population of 10,000 people. Vallarpadam is about one kilometer (½ mile) away from the Ernakulam mainland.

A short history the magnificent and miraculous picture of Mary and Infant Jesus, installed at the top of the main altar of the Vallarpadam Church, was brought by Portuguese merchants under the leadership of Vasco Da Gama in 1524. In 1676 the old Church, which was known as the Church of the Holy Spirit, founded by the Portuguese missionaries, was destroyed by the heavy flood and the picture of Our Lady was found floating in the backwaters. Nobody except Paliyath Raman Valiyachan, the Prime Minister of Maharaja of Cochin, could recover it. The beautiful church at Vallarpadam which you see now is built on the land which was donated by Paliyath Raman Valiyachan. He is gratefully remembered in Vallarpadathamma and his generosity towards the church, by lighting the Sanctuary lamp, which he himself donated and which has been burning day and night from 1676 onwards.

Madubaha At Vallarpadam Church

In May 1752, there occurred a great miracle which made Vallarpadam a famous Pilgrim Centre. In Vallarpadam there was a young Nair Lady named Meenakshi Amma, who was a member of a noble family called Palliyil Veedu. Together with her son, she was going to Mattancherry in a non-mechanised boat. There arose a storm and the boat capsized. Meenakshi Amma and her son went deep down into the backwater. While they were in danger Meenakshi Amma promised Vallarpadathamma that if they were rescued by her they would be her Adimas (servants) until their death. On the third day, as per instructions in a dream, the parish priest asked the fishermen to cast net in the river, and Meenakshi Amma and her son were rescued. This incident is depicted in the picture mentioned above. From that day onwards, people, especially those who travel by boats and ships, come to Vallarpadam and pray for their safe journey. Meenakshi Amma and her son received baptism and became Christians and were named Mary and Jesudas respectively. They were living in the Churchyard itself adoring the Lord and thanking Our Lady and proclaiming the "good news" to all those who came here. Her family is still living, which is quite near to the church. Due to its spiritual importance, His Holiness Pope Leo XIII elevated its main altar to the status of Altare Privilegiatum in Perpetuum Concessum in 1888.

Hotel Ganpat Grand - best hotel @ Palani (Tamil Nadu)

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 13 Aug 2016 01:29:00 +0000

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Introduction

Hotel Ganpat Grant

Last day I had my pilgrim visit to Palani Hill Temple with my family. During this visit I stayed at Hotel Ganpat a fine and clean hotel in the surrounding of Palani Temple. I settled at Temple faced room, which gave me an exceptional experience with my family.

Hotel Ganpat

I reached, Palani about 8.30 PM on 30^th July 2016 with my cute family. Palani is Famous for Lord Palaniandavar’s shrine on the hills; the town of Palani is one of the most ancient and sacred pilgrimage spots in South India.

By the first impression itself I decided to stay my “Palani Days” at Hotel Ganpat. The Hotel is conveniently located at the foot of palani hills, provides comfortable and functional accommodation. The hotel is situated at Adivaram, Poonga road enroute to the Palani hill temple and it provides an ideal accommodation in the pilgrim city, with a mere 1 Km distance from the bus terminal and 2 km from Railway station.

The hotel staffs were very professional in dealing and fulfilling the requirements of guests comes to the hotel. They provide me a fine and comfortable room at 2^nd floor which is faced to Palani Hill Temple. The view of the temple from the hotel room is so marvelous and incredible.

Accommodation Facilities at Hotel Ganpat

Reception Area of Hotel Ganpat Grand

There are 52 well appointed rooms, including 35 deluxe, 10 Air-Conditioned, 6 Family and 1 Suite, the rooms are compact, aesthetically designed with all the necessary comforts. The room’s features Colour television with cable channels, en-suite bathrooms, a/c, and intercom.

Other Facilities at Hotel Ganpat

Experience the privileges of being a Hotel Ganpat guest with great services and facilities. The hotel facilities are 24*7 Checks- in, 24hrs checkout, Room service, House-keeping service, Travel Assistance and Car parking. Sree Baalaji bhavan the Ganpat Group concern resturant located near to hotel offers authentic south Indian flavours.

Restaurants

There are two restaurants;

one is “Aaharam Multi Cuisine A/C Restaurant” which is a wonderful rendezvous for visitors to palani to celebrate any occasion with guest or colleagues with a great dining experience. Fine dining experience extends from food to the details like ambience, crockery and cutlery. Aaharam serves extensive veg. multi cuisine a la carte menu and complementary buffet breakfast for room guests. The restaurant will be active from 6:30 A.M TO 10:30 P.M.

The other one is

“Balaji’s Food Court” which is a Quick Service Restaurant serves varieties of dosa, south Indian specialties, north Indian dishes, special combos, traditional meals, hot beverages, fresh juices and mouth watering desserts. It will be open from 7:00 A.M. TO 10:30 P.M.

Travel Desk

Temple View from my Room

Hotel Ganpat is one amongst the reliable travel agencies in South India, operating from Palani and enjoys a high reputation for providing reliable personalized and professional services. The Ganpat Hotel Group has a big team of professional, who provides services at tour offices in Palani to assist guests in all travel needs.

This team of professionals takes care of all the requirements of the devotees for the various pilgrimage tours. The highly proficient staffs in the team provide their expertise to the devotees with effective support services to make the pilgrimage a comfortable one. Among this team there are specialist tour guides who, have a vast experience in their domain and are aware of difficulties faced by the pilgrims. Thus they strive hard to ensure that the devotees have a hassle free Pilgrimage Tour.

Distance to rope car: 0.5 KM Distance to winch station: 0.5 KM Distance to steps: 200 mts.

Athirapilly Waterfall - The Niagara of India

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Trips Complete video on Athirapilly Waterfall, Thrissur, Kerala, India

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Thenmala, India’s First Planned Eco-Tourism Destination

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It is India's first planned eco-tourism destination, which is gaining popularity due to its unique vistas, bio-diversity and functioning. Situated about 72kms from Thiruvananthapuram, in the District of Kollam, the Thenmala Eco-Tourism shares its resources with the famous Shenduruney Wildlife Sanctuary at the foothills of the Western Ghats.

The word Thenmala in the local language Malayalam has an interesting meaning. 'Then' means honey and 'Mala' means hill; and they combine to mean 'Honey Hill'. It is believed that the honey collected from this region is of very good quality owing to its unique biological settings. Managed by Thenmala Eco-Tourism Promotional Society, which is an undertaking of the Government of Kerala, Thenmala Eco-tourism is a unique destination from a visitor's point of view. It has equal opportunities for fun, adventure, leisure and for learning the significance and necessity of eco-friendly measures for promoting tourism related activities.

At Thenmala Eco-Tourism, a visitor is taken care of by its well-trained staff providing guidance and information about the various attractions and facilities, enabling one to move about, explore and experience every bit of this remarkable destination. There are well-placed signboards, direction pointers, and information boards to facilitate one's movement inside the project area. Divided into different zones with a particular theme, the project area currently has three major zones viz. Culture Zone, Leisure Zone and Adventure Zone.

At the Culture Zone one can indulge in a variety of activities like trying few traditional Kerala dishes at the restaurant there, a bit of shopping for memento sake, a peep on Kerala's art and culture, an amphitheatre etc. But the highlight of the Culture Zone is the open air Musical Dancing Fountain, which is a big attraction among the visitors. There is also a Tourism Facilitation Center in the Culture Zone to provide information on a wide range of tourism products available at Thenmala.

Step into the Leisure Zone here and try the boardwalk leading to the dam. The sway bridge here could be an exciting proposition, especially for children. Adding more variety and elegance to the landscape here is the Sculpture Garden, which has Man & Nature as its theme.

For those with an overdose of adrenalin and those willing to test their adventure spirit would find the Adventure Zone here quite a thrilling experience. Take the elevated walkway for a journey that winds through the canopy of trees and going over rocky terrains bringing one close to life at different heights. And still those who don't mind to give their body muscles a real work out can go for mountain biking, rock climbing and river crossing.

Besides the zone-based activities for a visitor, Thenmala Eco-Tourism also offer other attractions, like an invigorating boat ride in the Shenduruney Wildlife Sanctuary; a visit to the Deer Rehabilitation Centre, where one can have a look at a group of spotted deer, the sambar deer and the barking deer, which have been given protection after straying out from the forests. The project area also has tree top huts and children's eco-park, riverside treks, and battery powered vehicle rides through the forest, enabling one to sight wildlife from a close distance.

For a visitor to Thenmala Eco-Tourism, some of the nearby attractions are also worth exploring. One may visit the picturesque Palaruvi waterfalls, about 16 km away, on the way to Shenkottah. Thenmala Eco-Tourism is open round the year and there are conducted tours organized by the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation from the Capital City of Thiruvananthapuram and also by the District Tourism Promotion Council of Kollam District.

Information Desk

Thenmala Eco-tourism Promotion Society,

Thenmala Dam Junction,

Thenmala PO 691308 Kollam District,

Kerala, India.

Phone:91-475-2344800
E-mail: info@thenmalaecotourism.com
Website: www.thenmalaecotourism.com

Getting there

Nearest railway station: Shenkottah, about 29 km and Kollam, about 66 km away
Nearest airport: Trivandrum International Airport, about 72 km away

# A Faraway Land Four Hours Away #

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 06 Aug 2016 01:30:00 +0000

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With the onset of the outbound tourism season in the Middle East, Kerala Tourism has rolled out a high-octane promotional campaign in Dubai targeting Arab travellers and showcasing the state’s spectacular features via colourful visuals draped on a bevy of taxis moving through the bustling metropolis. As many as 200 Kerala-branded taxis will ferry the message of ‘A Faraway Land Four Hours Away’– with eye-catching visuals featuring hill stations, backwaters, waterfalls as also Ayurvedic therapies – through the streets of Dubai, the throbbing heart of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The campaign will see the cabs take to the streets sporting wrappings aimed to promote the state’s Monsoon getaways, offering respite from the tortuous sizzle of the Arabian summer.

“Apart from the favourable climate, the relative proximity and excellent air connectivity between Kerala and the cities of the Middle East make it easier to attract holiday makers to the state,” said Dr Venu V, Principal Secretary (Tourism). “Dubai, being the hub for air travel in the region, was the logical choice of location for the marketing campaign. The exposure and footfalls gained by Kerala will bear this out.”The campaign, inspired by the previous highly successful branding efforts on London taxi cabs and the Mumbai metro, will run until August 15. Besides serving to augment Kerala’s destination pull, it is an acknowledgment of the growing importance of the Middle East outbound tourist market – the world’s fastest-growing segment with a nine per cent rise inoutbound trips in 2015. Arab tourists are also the biggest spenders. Kerala received more than one lakh visitors from the region in 2015, with some 20,506 tourists from the UAE alone. The majority came from Saudi Arabia with 51,149 Saudi nationals visiting last year, while Oman accounted for 18,763 footfalls.“As the holiday season in the Middle East coincides with the Monsoon season here, Kerala is well-positioned to benefit from the influx of travellers looking to trade in the sizzle and dust for cooler climes and greener pastures,” said Shri U.V. Jose, Director, Kerala Tourism.

Kerala Medical Tourism

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 30 Jul 2016 05:01:00 +0000

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Medical Tourism is the synergy between hospitals and the Tourism industry. The state is all set for a leap in medical tourism. More and more hospitals are joining hands with the tourism industry to benefit their services. The high priority for health in Kerala is bound to make this relatively new aspect of tourism into a multi crore industry in future.

Kerala is already being marketed as a popular health destination for its famous ayurveda health packages. Medical tourism is marketed along with ayurveda and other health packages. Major hospitals are joining hands with the Government in promoting medical tourism. Health insurance companies are beginning to play a major role in medical tourism. Globalization and economic liberalization have given a boost to the medical service sector, especially in Kerala. The medical treatment for various packages form part of recuperative leisure packages at world class tourist resorts. Airport pickup, hotel accommodation, transportation, food etc are offered along with medical treatment at the best hospitals.

Kerala Jews History Museum

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 29 Jul 2016 14:29:00 +0000

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A prime destination in Muziris Heritage Project

The Jewish communities who came here in different periods settled in and around Kodungallur were involved in trade. Synagogues are Jewish places of worship. They received special rights and privileges from the kings to build these Synagogues. Innumerous aspects of Kerala culture were absorbed by them. Repeated attacks by Portuguese, Dutch and Mysore inflicted damages on the Synagogues. When Israel came into being, many Jews returned in groups. The Synagogues were left unattended, and worship there stopped.

One of the oldest such Synagogues is the Paravur Synagogue. The Paravur Jewish Synagogue Museum presents the history of Jews and their Synagogues along the Kerala coast, their modes of worship and so on from the point of view of the Jews.

The Paravur Synagogue is the most expansive and complete among synagogues in Kerala. It is a construction that has several parts that are linked to each other in specific ways. It consists of a porch with two rooms, very spacious front yard, long corridor, huge doors and stairs made of wood, whitewashed walls built with laterite blocks and a mixture of lime, and the wooden chamber with intricate carvings. The influence of Kerala style is evident in the special seats designed for females in the second floor, the hanging lamps that decorate the prayer room etc. The shape of the fan on the front wall of the prayer hall resembles Portuguese style.

Found on the erstwhile Jewish street in Paravur, this Synagogue was built in 1615. It is one among the largest surviving synagogues in Kerala. The building is located in the former Jewish Street of the Paravur region. It served as the place of worship for the Jewish community that settled very close to the Paravur Market. Though the users of the synagogue have all but faded away, both the market and the synagogue still exist. The Paravur market opening to the river Periyar still functions twice a week, a boat jetty has been constructed there, and the Jew street still goes by that name, though one of its two pillars at the entrance has been knocked down. With the opening of the Paravur visitor centre, the synagogue will be within walking distance from there.

Architectural Features

The structure of the Paravur synagogue is a brilliant confluence of Jewish tradition and 'Kerala-ness.' Notable is the direction of the 'path' that comes in from the outer lane, and which goes in through the Padippura' (A frontal structure at the entrance), and further on through the frontal aisle, right up to the Bema; also of significance is the relation that the Bema has with other areas of the synagogue. One unique feature of the synagogues in Kerala is the space exclusively accorded for women to assemble and sit; there is a special ladder from outside the structure, for women to come in. Another ladder exists inside the sanctum; it is used to come up for the torah recital done from the second Theva.

Exhibits

The museum will speak about the history of the Jews in Kerala, about how they came and settled here, their occupation, the deterioration of the community and also about the present status of the people who left from this community. The synagogue is a great study of Jewish life, the social hierarchies, native cultural influences on the immigrant Jewish community evident in the architecture.

St. Angelo Fort @ Kannur, Kerala

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 27 Jul 2016 02:33:00 +0000

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Introduction

St. Angelo Fort is also famous as Kannur Fort or Kannur Kotta. Kannur is a city of Kerala state, South India. The fort is also known as Kannur Fort and it is one of the prominent tourist attractions of Kerala, is crafted entirely out of laterite and thus it sports an old sporadic look. The fort is an architectural epiphany, with its massive triangular design and it adjoining bastions. The protected monument is replete with a big moat which runs around the fort. This famous fort was constructed by the first Portuguese viceroy in India, Don Francesco de Almeida in the year 1505. The fort is situated just 3km west from the town of Kannur. From the fort one can run his eyes on the Moppila Bay and Dharmadom Island, which are situated near the fort. The beautiful Dharmadom Island is a small island just five acres in area and is located just 100 meters away from the coast in the Arabian Sea. The Moppila Bay is a natural fishing bay, which is until now used for the same purpose. St. Angelo's Fort, which faces the Arabian Sea, provides a mesmerizing view of the Sea during sunrise and sunset.

History

St. Angelo's Fort has an interesting historical background, as it has seen a number of rulers and invaders. This fort has also seen a number of battles almost all were fought for gaining the possession of this fort. After the construction of this fort in 1505 by Don Francesco de Almeida, it constantly remained under attacks from a number of native rulers in the Siege of Kannur in 1507. However, all their efforts were in vain, as the Fort provided its inhabitants security from any kind of attack. Later on, Almeida refused to surrender the fort to Afonso de Albuquerque who came to supersede himself as the new Governor. Almeida instead captured Afonso de Albuquerque and imprisoned him inside the Fort.

In the year 1663, the Dutch captured the Kannur Fort from the Portuguese. They modernized the fort by adding the bastions Hollandia, Zeelandia and Frieslandia which are the major features of the present structure of St Angelo's Fort. The original Portuguese Structure was pulled down later. The Dutch later on sold the fort to a native king Ali Raja of Arakkal, in the year 1772. But in 1790 the British seized the Fort, renovated it into a military base and used it as their chief military station in Malabar. Today, St. Angelo’s Fort or Kannur Fort is a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India, which takes care of its maintenance.

Attractions

Kannur Fort, after much renovation, remains a classic example of Portuguese architecture, though modernization throughout time makes it more of a fusion of various European architectural styles. St. Angelo's Fort has an interesting feature which is worth mentioning, when it comes to its architecture. A wall protruding from the Fort separates the saline sea water of the Arabian Sea from the inland water. The Moppila Bay is now turned into a modern fishing harbor with modern fishing equipments, which is an Indo-Norwegian Project. The adjoining bastions, which give the fort a triangular form, are a piece of architectural mastery.

How to Reach

By Road

The network of road is well set and it is ideal to visit Kannur Fort by road. However, one is advised to book a private vehicle or a taxi to visit this Fort, as this is located in interiors of Kannur.

By Rail

The nearest railway station is the Kannur Railway Station, which is located about 3 km from the Fort. One can board on a train to any major city of India.

By Air

The nearest airport to St. Angelo’s Fort is Karipur International Airport, located at Kozhikode, which is 93kms away from the fort. From here, you can take flight to almost all the major domestic and international destinations.

Baypore in Kerala

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 22 Jul 2016 02:28:00 +0000

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Beypore in Kozhikode

Beypore is located in Kozhikode at the mouth of the Chaliyar River. Historically, it has a special place as being one of the prominent ports and fishing harbours, and was also an important trade and maritime centre during the days of the early Arab and Chinese travellers and later the Europeans. Soon after gaining prominence as a port and trade centre, Beypore slowly began to flourish as a centre for shipbuilding, since ships were in great demand merchants from Western Asia. The shipbuilding yard at Beypore port is famous for its traditional construction of the Uru or the Arabian trading vessel. This tradition of shipbuilding is nearly 1,500 years old, and the craftsmanship of the workers here is exceptional.

Traditionally, Arabs constitute the major chunk of buyers. They place orders with their specifications and needs. Unlike modern day shipbuilding involving the development of blueprint and machinery to facilitate manufacturing of ships, here, at Beypore everything is conceived in the minds of the shipwrights, who as a team execute the highly intricate woodwork to perfection. It is an amazing aspect if one is to observe the manner in which the Uru takes shape with minimum sophistication in production. The entire team observes certain work ethics, of which discipline is the foremost. A visit to this historic place is a must in order to have a close look at some of the deft fingers and alert minds, measuring and fixing different parts of the ship to perfection.

Today, not many vessels are launched from Beypore and the artisans have taken to crafting little wooden models of their gigantic masterpieces. These four inch to eight foot 'Model Vessels' crafted out of teak wood would cost you anything from 2$ - to 700$.

Marine shops - You can get fresh and used marine vessel parts from this city shops. But you should be good in bargaining.

Beypore Beach

Beypore beach is an ideal beach destination for tourists as well as of historians. Located at the mouth of river Chaliyar about 10 kilometres away from Kozhikode town (Calicut) in Kerala, The charming beach is just like a treasure of peace and tranquility with its picturesque atmosphere, wide stretches of golden sands and fascinating coconut trees; swaying tenderly in the cool breeze. This beach is pristine and perfect for a quiet escapade. Take a short break from your busy life and embark on Beypore beach where you can pamper yourself eternally with Ayurvedic massages, indulge in various adventurous water sports activities, or simply strolling along the shoreline. So, relax and take part in all activities and enjoy holidaying in Beypore with full pleasure. You may also take a leisurely walk all around the beach where you may get the traditional village culture of Kerala.

Beypore – As per Wikipedia

Beypore or Beypur is an ancient port town and a Municipality town in Kozhikode district in the state of Kerala, India. The place was formerly known as Vaypura / Vadaparappanad. Tipu Sultan, ruler of Mysore, named the town "Sultan Pattanam". There is a marina and a beach while Beypore port is one of the oldest ports in Kerala, which historically traded with theMiddle East. Beypore is noted for building wooden ships, known as dhows or urus in the Malayalam language. These ships were usually bought by Arab merchants for trading and fishing but are now used as tourist ships. According to Captain Iwata, founder member of the Association of Sumerian ships in Japan, Sumerian ships might have been built in Beypore. There is evidence to prove that Beypore had direct trade links with Mesopotamia and was a prominent link on the maritime silk route.

Things to Do at Beypore Beach

Tourists from all across the world visit Beypore to enjoy water adventurous activities and to explore several beaches. Whether it's about beach lovers or adventure freaks, this place offers wonderful experience to all the visitors seeking peace, adventure activities, shopping, basking, eateries, and many more.

Water Sports- Adventure enthusiasts can indulge in various activities like surfing, parasailing, skiing, swimming, angling, kayaking, sunbathing and many more.

Shopping and Food Corners- There are some areas like Sweat Meat Street, which is known to be one of the fussiest cities to shop many things. You can taste the very popular 'Kozhikodan Halwa', which is available in many shops over here. The colourful and delicious halwa with banana chips are desirable items for visitors shopping from Kozhikode. Another spice market located on the Big Bazaar Road, is another renowned shopping areas where you can buy various varieties of Keralan spices at wholesale rates. Beside all these, there are plenty of eateries that offer huge varieties of delicacies. The seafood and traditional Malabari cuisine are too good and worth to have it once if you are here. Chilled beer is also available in many hotels & restaurants.

Other Activities- Beypore beach is not only famous for its immense beauty of nature, water sports, and sunbathing, but also for other activities like ayurvedic massage. The rejuvenating ayurveda massage is one of the major attractions, which draws thousands of visitors from different parts of the world.

Some major tourist attractions in Beypore are:

Beypore Harbour– The best time to visit here is early in the morning as you can see the fisherman busy in their own work.

Beypore Port- It's an ancient port that has a historical meaning as it was the port where trading was started between Asia and the Middle East and later on known as a major maritime and trade centre.

Beypore lighthouse - Beypore port had the trade links with Europe, Arabia and the ports on Indian coast. It was also the base port for Laccadive group of Islands (Androth, Agatti, Kavaratti, Suhelipar and Kalpeni) and continues even now to be the base for Machine Cum Sailing vessels of Lakshadweep. Thelighthouse used as a navigation object for sea vessels.

Traditional boat(Urus)-building yard - A part in the mouth of Beypore river, a road terminus, traditional boat(Urus)-building yard, old port, fishing harbour.

Dolphin's Point - Just 15 minutes away from the town centre is Dolphin's Point, where you can view dolphins playing in the sea early morning. But you have to walk from main road terminus aroun 2Kms. But I guarantee this will be a memorable one. Stone laid down into sea around 2 kms long. You can call it a stone pier. At this point, you can also explore a Lions Club, Calicut Town Center, and a lighthouse.

Kozhikode (Calicut) Town - Kozhikode was earlier the major region of Malabar but today it has become an interesting location for tourists as the place has the tranquil beaches, lush green countryside, wildlife sanctuaries, historic sites, rivers, hills, and an unparalleled culture along with friendly ambience..

Kozhikode (Calicut) Beach Mananchira - It's an architectural grandeur shrouded with green grass and encircled by ethnic edifices.

Kappad Beach :-

For the people of Kozhikode, this pleasant stretch of rock-studded beach is ‘Kappakkadavu’. To the tourist it is one of the most charming of Kerala's beaches. “Kappad” finds mention in history and geography texts as the gateway to the Malabar Coast. Here, 501 years ago on 27th May 1498, 170 men led by the Portuguese navigator Vasco da Gama (1460-1524) sailed in and stepped into Kerala to create a new chapter in history; the story of a long and tumultuous socio-political relationship between India and Europe.

Other must-see attractions in and around Beypore include Muchunthi Palli, The Art Gallery of Kozhikode, The Krishna Menon Museum, Pazhassi Raja Museum and Art Gallery, Thusharagiri waterfalls, Mananchira Square, etc.

Things to Learn

Learn the traditional hand weaving technique which is world renowned. TASARA -an Institution dedicated to creative weaving, is situated In Beypore. Founded in 1989, Tasara (weaver's shuttle in Sanskrit) is an extension of Spider Weavers, which was established in 1977. The Centre endeavors to deliver a contemporary touch to this age old form of art, by bringing together artists and weavers in an inspiring ambience, enabling both to break through the limitations of their own mediums. Check their official website for more detail

Where to Stay

There are huge accommodation options at Beypore ranging from luxury to budget hotels that offer all kinds of facilities like massage, yoga, ayurvedic therapies, etc.

Few popular hotels located nearby Beypore are:

· Sea Queen Hotel

· Kadavu Resorts

· Fortune Hotel Calicut

· TAJ Residency

· Hotel Maharani

· Hotel Span Calicut

· Asma Tower Hote

How to Reach

By Air – The nearest airport is Karipur International airport. Calicut airport (23 km) is also nearby from Beypore.

By Rail- The nearest railway station is at Kozhikode, which is well connected to all the major cities of India.

By Road- State transport buses are available on regular basis between Beypore and all the major neighboring cities in Kerala. Well, it's is just 11 km from Calicut by road.

Best Time to Visit- October to March

So, come on guys! Plan next trip to Beypore Beach and choose the best offers available on Kerala holiday packages at Trips – Any Time Any Where. Travel to Beypore and explore the natural beauty of the place. Roll around, make sand castles and take one selfie with your friends or family members on the sea-kissed sands of Beypore beach.

Kathakali - The pride of Kerala

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 19 Jul 2016 13:59:00 +0000

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Introduction

The dancer on the stage, in front of the drummers, wears a large carved wooden head dress for this performance of Kathakali, one of India's most recognizable male-led dance-dramas. His eyes are wide and red, the contours of his face extended with a mask of moulded rice paper. His painted green face tells the audience he is their Sathwika, their hero. It is part-dance and part-mime, Kathakali originated in the state of Kerala between the 16th and 17th centuries, around the same time as Shakespeare. Kathakali means a story play or a dance drama. Katha means story. Belonging to the South-Western coastal state of Kerala, Kathakali is primarily a dance drama form and is extremely colourful with billowing costumes, flowing scarves, ornaments and crowns.

Origin and History of Kathakali

Popular belief is that Kathakali is emerged from "Krishananattam", the dance drama on the life and activities of Lord Krishna created by the Zamorin of Calicut. Once Kottarakkara Thampuran, the Raja of Kottarakkara who was attracted by Krishnanaattam requested the Zamorin for the loan of a troupe of performers. Due to the political rivalry between the two, Zamorin did not allow this. So Kottarakkara Thampuran created another art form called Ramanattam which was later transformed into Aattakatha. Krishnanaattam was written in Sanskrit, and Raamanaattam was in Malayalam. By the end of 17th century, Attakatha was presented to the world with the title 'Kathakali'.

Elements of Fine Arts in Kathakali

Kathakali is a combination of five forms of fine art like:

1. Natyam (Acting or Expressions)

2. Nritham (Dance)

3. Nrithyam (Enactment)

4. Sangeetham (Music)

5. Vadyam (Instrument accompaniment)

Even though the lyrics/literature would qualify as another independent element called "Sahithyam", it is considered as a component of Geetha, as it plays only a supplementary role to Nritham, Nrithyam and Natyam. Along with Fine Arts elements, the macro and micro movements of the face, the movements of the eyebrows, the eyeballs, the cheeks, the nose and the chin are minutely worked out and various emotions are registered in a flash by a Kathakali actor-dancer. Often men play the female roles, though of late women have taken to Kathakali.

Mudra

The most striking feature of Kathakali is its overwhelming dramatic quality. But its characters never speak. It is danced to the musical compositions, involving dialogues, narration and continuity. It employs the lexicon of a highly developed hand-gesture language to convey the story along with the facial expressions and unfolds the text of the drama. These hand gestures, known as mudra, are common throughout much of classical Indian dance.

There are 24 Basic Mudras (hand gestures) in Kathakali. 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 separations there are totally 470 symbols used in Kathakali. The demonstration of “elephant” for example, that used one hand in the “musti” shape as the end of the trunk. This was moved around to very convincingly show the elephant eating, spitting on the audience, etc. The actors’ other hand, in the “hamsapaksham” shape was the elephant’s ears that waved around in different ways to show the elephant’s emotions (happy, angry, etc).

Along with the facial expressions, the mudras express 9 emotions (“rasas”), which are: serenity, wonder, kindness, love, valor, fear, contempt, loathing and anger. We saw a demonstration of all 9, and the meanings were very clear. The audience would know the 24 mudras and the veshams of all the characters and so could decipher the meaning as the story play proceeded.

There are two types of Mudras:

Samaana Mudras (Same Mudras):- That is, the same Mudra is used to show two different symbols. For example the Mudra "Karthareemukham" is used to show both the symbols 'Time' and 'Near'
Misra Mudras (Mixed Mudras): That is, some symbols are shown using two different Mudras in both hands. There are 68 Mixed Mudras. For example to show the symbol "Indra", the Mudra "Sikharam" in one hand and the Mudra "Mushti" in the other hand; for 'Sivan' the Mudras used are "Mrigaseersham" and "Hamsapaksham"; etc

Navarasas in Kathakali

The main facial expressions of a Kathakali artist are the 'navarasams' (Navarasas in anglicized form) (literal translation: Nine Tastes, but more loosely translated as nine feelings or expressions) which are

· Sringaram (amour),

· Hasyam (ridicule,humour),

· Bhayanakam (fear),

· Karunam (pathos),

· Roudram (anger, wrath),

· Veeram(valour),

· Beebhatsam (disgust),

· Albhutam (wonder, amazement),

· Shantam (tranquility, peace).

Kathakali Plays

The world of Kathakali is peopled by noble heroes and demons locked in battle, with truth winning over untruth, good over evil. The stories from the two epics, the Mahabharata and the Ramayana, as well as the Puranas constitute the themes of the Kathakali dance dramas. There are about 101 Kathakali stories. The stories were composed for the whole night in the old times. But due to the increasing demand for the concised versions, now the plays are composed for 2-4 hours instead of the whole night. It is good for one who watches Kathakali to have an idea of the story being played. Success or failure of amateur Kathakali artistes is often decided by their sensibility to successfully personalize characters.

Important stories enacted in Kathakali are 'Nala Charitham' (Story from Mahabharatham about King Nala and his wife Damayanthi), 'Duryodhana Vadham' (Another story from Mahabharata about the killing of Duryodhana by the Pandava brother Bhima in Kurukshetra), 'Kalyanasowgandhikam' (Bheema's encounter with Hanuman when the former set out in search for the flower Kalyanasaugandhikam for his wife Draupadi), 'Keechaka Vadham'(Story of the killing of Keechaka by Bhima when the Panadavas were in disguise), 'Kiratham' (Story of Arjuna and Lord Shiva's fight), and 'Karna Shapadham' (story of Karna from Mahabharata).

Characters in Kathakali

Characters in Kathakali are divided by emotional capacity and defined by corresponding makeup types. They are grouped first by a few broadly differentiated types (satvik = heroic, pious, and virtuous, rajasik= passionate, heroic but aggressive, and tamasik =demonic, rude, evil). These broad character groups are then divided into seven types which share colors and styles of makeup (paccha/green, katti/knife, thadi/ bearded, kari/black, minukku/shining, and theppu/ special). Within each group there are variations for different characters and situations, but the primary pattern, color scheme, and headdress usually remain constant. In practice there are also subtle adjustments of line weight and shape as the patterns are mapped onto the individual‘s facial features. Colors hold symbolic meaning, as do many of the features. This visual language informs the audience of each character‘s nature. The importance of makeup and costume is indicated in the level of transformation from performer to character; several sources report that once a performer is in makeup and costume, he is no longer addressed by his own name.

Pachcha

The pacha vesham with its predominant green colour is used to portray noble male characters like kings and divine beings. These characters have a mix of satvic (pious) and rajsik (kingly) nature. The satvic element facilitates immense possibility for the artiste to explicate his acting talents. Characters like Lord Krishna and Lord Rama are examples of pacha vesham.

Kathi

Kathi characters are arrogant and evil but have a streak of valour in them. Though their make-up is basically green, denoting that they are high born, a red mark like an upturned moustache or knife is painted on the cheek to show that they are evil. They also have white knobs on the tips of their noses and on their foreheads, which add to their evil nature. Ravana, the demon king is a typical kathi character in Kathakali

Kari

Kari vesham is used for demonic characters, portraying the most gruesome figures on the Kathakali stage. Their faces are jet-black with dotted red and white markings on them. Minukkuvesham symbolizes gentleness and high spiritual qualities (like saints), which are in sharp contrast to the preceding four classes.

Thadi

There are three distinct types in the class of thadi vesham viz. chuvanna thadi (red beard as in the case of the character Bali - the king of monkeys) vella thadi (white beard) and karutha thadi(black beard). The red beards are vicious and excessively evil characters. Their faces are mainly painted black on the top half and red on the lower. The white beard represents a higher type of being and is seen mainly in the character of Hanuman, the monkey god. The black beards are the character types in which black predominates in make-up and costume. These are the primitive beings - the wild hunters and forest dwellers.

Minukku

It is used to represent women and sages. Traditionally,kathakali being a predominantly male performance,the female character are also performed by men. This vesham is used to represent gentleness and high spiritual standing and is charectorised with yellow facial paint

These basic divisions are further subdivided in a way which is very well known to Malayali (Keralite) audiences. Each character is instantly recognizable by their characteristic makeup and costume.

The materials that comprise the makeup are all locally available. The white is made from rice flour; the red is made from Vermilion (a red earth such as cinnabar). The black is made from soot. The colours are not merely decoration, but are also a means of portraying characters. For instance, red on the feet is used to symbolise evil character and evil intent.

Costume

Kathakali characters‘ costumes have the same basic silhouette and components. Most characters, both male and female, wear huge hemispherical layered skirts (usually white with border stripes), one or more layered jackets (most commonly red), and a series of ornate accessories. Kari vesham is used for demonic characters, portraying the most gruesome figures on the Kathakali stage. Their faces are jet-black with dotted red and white markings on them. Minukkuvesham symbolizes gentleness and high spiritual qualities (like saints), which are in sharp contrast to the preceding four classes. KARI It is used to represent women and sages. Traditionally, kathakali being a predominantly male performance, the female character are also performed by men. This vesham is used to represent gentleness and high spiritual standing and is characterized with yellow facial paint. MINUKKU apart from these five main classes there are eighteen special characters like Jatayu, Hamsamand Karkotaka whose make-up cannot be fitted into any particular category. 40 These include four items on each arm, bells and pads on the lower legs, a carved breastplate and cascade of gold necklaces, and two or more waist ornaments of fabric, beads, and carved, decorated wood. Further layers include between two and six lengths of pleated fabric at the neck and ornate contrasting side panels from waist to them. All performers have some form of headdress—relatively simple for minukku, but extravagantly ornamented for gods and demons.

There are variations in color, headdress, and some accessories for different characters and some types. In scale, the most demonic characters have the most volume, while human characters are closer to realistic size of dress. All costumes feature bright colors, and strong contrasts, which helps them be more visible in the traditionally limited lighting of nighttime performances. Also, the exaggeration in the costumes‘ designs supports the dramatic storytelling, the forms, colors, and accessories for each character are standard, so that each presentation of the character is visually recognizable. The similarity is clear to new audiences; it takes time and experience to learn the various subtle differences between characters. Kathakali aficionados delight in reviewing the subtleties of movement, expression, and personality of accomplished performers. Whether traditionally crafted or contemporary in construction, Kathakali costumes are incredibly effective in bringing attention to those attributes. From the basic similarities in shape, color, and ornament of all costumes to the intricacies of makeup, headdress, and details of specific characters, all visual choices are effective in supporting the performance. They bring attention to the actor‘s eyes and facial expressions; they emphasize movements of body, hands, and feet, and they reinforce percussive sounds of the dance. It‘s a beautiful marriage of form and function.

Music

The pure dance element in Kathakali is limited to kalasams, decorative dance movements alternating with an expressional passage where the actor impersonates a character, miming to the liberetto sung by the musician. One of the major distinguishing features of Kathakali is the absence of oral communication. A considerable part of the script is in the form of lyrics, sung by vocalists. The only accompaniments are percussion instruments. Chenda(Drum played with sticks) Maddalam(Drum played with fingers), Chengila(Gong) and Ilathalam(Cymbals). It is not unusual that a Kathakali performance take the form of a Jugalbandi (Duet) of singing and acting.

Drumming especially of Chenda is the salient feature of Kathakali. Formerly considered an “Asura Vadyam” meaning one that cannot go in harmony, Chena has become the most important feature. Artists are capable of producing a range of sounds varying from the gentle rattle of dry leaves in a breeze to reverberating thunder on Chenda. The music of Kathakali has some similarity to the larger body of South Indian classical music (Carnatic sangeet); however the instrumentation is decidedly different.

Make-up

In Kathakali, the make-up creates the superhuman effect. It takes nearly three to four hours to complete the make-up which is done in stages, and the duration varies according to the character and complexity of the costume.

Theppu is the first stage where the artiste himself applies the basic facial paintings. After this the Chuttikkaran (make-up man) puts the Chutti which forms the second stage of make-up. The Chutti plays a crucial role in differentiating the characters and their personality.

All the colours used in the make-up are obtained from natural substances and herbs. For example, the red and yellow colours are made by powdering stones like Chaayilyam(Cinnabar) and Manayola (Arsenic) respectively. A mixture of lime and rice flour serves for white. The green colour is produced by mixing Manayola and Neelam (bluetaken out fron neelamari plant/indigo). Coconut oil is used as the base for mixing these stone powders. Another stone, Chenchilyam is powdered and applied in order to protect the skin from burns. Kanmashi or Kajal (the black substance) is prepared by burning gingelly oil. Cotton wicks immersed in oil is burnt and the smoke of the flame is collected on the inside surface of an earthen pot kept upside down over the flame. The lamp black deposited on the surface is scratched out slowly and kept for uses. Face painting- Chutti 58 Kumkumam or saffron is also used for the make-up. However, now-a-days many of these colour mixing processes have been replaced by easily available material.

Structure of the Performance

In olden days Kathakali performance mostly took place on temple premises or at the house of a local landlord. For a typical performance, a simple temporary pandal (canopy made of thatched roof) will be erected. The stage will be decorated with coconut leaves, bunches of areca nuts etc. The only source of light is a big bell metal lamp placed down the center stage. The level of the stage used to be the same as that of the ground where people used to squat while witnessing the performance.

Conclusion

Is Kathakali classical? If we look at our benchmarks to see if it is classical, it only scores modestly. It is definitely old, but this is one of the least important of the criteria. It is not necessarily something that upper classes use to define their identity, indeed the opposite is probably true. Its most glaring deficiency is seen in its inability to transcend its attachments to the Keralite community. The average Indian (non-Malayali) has only a vague knowledge that it exists, and will live their entire life without ever even seeing a Kathakali performance. Therefore from a sociological standpoint it is probably more correct to call Kathakali "traditional" instead of classical.

Kathakali Schools in Kerala

It was originally taught in old live-in boarding schools, under the strict mentorship of a teacher, or ashan.

· Kerala Kalamandalam (located in Cheruthuruthy, near Shoranur, Kerala)

· PSV Natya Sanghom (located in Kottakal, near Kozhikode, Kerala)

· Gandhi Seva Sadan Kathakali and Classic Arts Academy (located in Perur, near Palakkad, Kerala)

· Unnayi Varier Smaraka Kalanilayam (located in Iringalakuda, near Thrissur, Kerala)

There also several relatively new centers:

· Vella Kathakali Vidyalayam

· Kalabharathi Kathakali Vidyalayam

· FACT Kathakali School

· RLV Kathakali Vidyalayam

· Margi, located in Tiruvanantapuram

Detailed Study on Kathakali

http://14.139.111.26/jspui/bitstream/1/219/1/Kathakali%20Costume%20Study%20and%20Analysis.pdf

Karkidakam the Season of Rejuvenation

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 17 Jul 2016 04:38:00 +0000

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Introduction

Decades ago, ‘Karkidaka masam’ was marked by heavy rain, a time when people prayed to the Gods to prevent nature’s fury. As per Malayalam calendar, Karkidakom is the last month and often seen as the dark month of a year, before Chingam (Shravan) month and Onam arrive next month with spring, prosperity and blossoms. Karkidakom starts with July 17th according to Gregorian calendar and ends with August 16th. August 17 is ‘Happy new year’ to Keralites. With the coming of Karkidakam the monsoon rainfall enters its final phase in Kerala. The month witness heavy rainfall, diseases associated with it, lost food crops in rain and flood and of course, poverty if a family solely depends on soil and agriculture to earn a living. For a common man, it’s the season of tears as heavy floods take away their crops and they can’t go out and get work due to heavy rains. It’s the season of illness and contagious diseases too.

Even though Karkidakam was considered as the dark month of year, the same month also reflected as Holy month in the lives of Malayalies by observing and following various traditional holy rituals. The below explained are the few way of life practiced during this season from decades ago.

Karkidaka Ayurvedic Treatment

Traditionally in Kerala, this period of the year is considered most ideal for undergoing Ayurveda based body rejuvenation therapies. The body is considered highly receptive to Ayurveda treatments during this period. There are various types of Ayurveda therapies that people undergo during the Malayalam month of Karkidakam. And these therapies help an individual to go through the rest of the year by having a recharged and energized body and mind.

Ayurveda, a holistic system that rejuvenates not only the body but also the mind and soul, recommends Rithu Charya. It is the specific observance of diet and lifestyle suitable for each season to defend the body from the lashes of changing seasons. By following a strict routine, we can cancel the effect of the sudden transition from the scorching summer to the cool monsoons. Karkidakam is also the best time for rejuvenation therapies. During the rainy season, the bodys receptivity to medication is at its peak and hence therapies aimed at strengthening the body would be more effective. Karkidaka therapies can not only neutralize many diseases caused by the change in climatic conditions, but also can avoid health problems that spring from the modern way of life and faulty eating habits. Ayurvedic oil therapies and those prescribed under the Panchakarma treatment are recommended during this season for cleansing the body system. The traditional system of Ayurvedic medicines helps us to live in perfect harmony with the nature.

Karkkidaka Kanji

The season of monsoon is reflected with much of diseases and sufferings. The body needs to be rejuvenated at this time. Karkkidakam Kanji, a porridge made out of Ayurvedic medicines is a best food which is consumed by the Keralities during the month of Karkkidakam. This is considered as a good medicinal food to keep good health in the time of Karkkidakam. Due to the stopped agricultural jobs, the farmers who will be remaining in their homes will make this time for invigorating their body through such Ayurvedic practices.Karkkidaka Kanji is a traditional Ayurvedic blend which is used as a medicine for body purification since many centuries. The ingredients of Karkkidaka Kanji are boiled Navarra ari (rice), Jeerakam, Thiruthalli, Uzhinnigi, Bala, Attibala,Chathurjatham,Jathikka,Gathipathari,Danakam,Kalasam,Assalli,Satkuppa,Manjal.Kakkankaya, etThe ingredients are boiled using coconut milk or cow milk along with coconut jagarry and pinch of salt .The Karkkidaka Kanji can be consumed during early mornings or in dusk timings.

Karkidakam is the Month of Reading Ramayanam

The month of Karkkidakam is often referred as “Panja Masam” (the month of extreme scarcity) in traditional Malayalam language. A shade of discontent will make its triumph due to these factors. Ramayana recitation during this time is considered as a propitious practice that will mend all the discomforts and agony both to the individuals and community. An unrivaled spiritual solace can be attained through the habitual and devoted reading of Ramayana during the 31 days of Karkkidakam. Adhyatma Ramayanam Kilippatuu is recited in homes and temples during the month of Karkkidakam. The reader should sit in the front of lighted lamp (Nilavilakku) and read the verses in particular rhythm. It is recommended that the book must be completed on the last day of Malayalam Month.Marriges, new undertakings etc are not held during the month of Karkkidakam. Read More

Nalambalam Darsanam - Nalambalam Yatra(Pilgrimage)

The Naalambala Darshanam during the month of Karkkidakam is a worth notable pilgrimage. The Hindu religion focuses on the healthy and lovable relations among the kith and kin of one’s own families. If the bondings connecting the members are brittle, the family can’t stand rigid for a long time. Ramayana tells us the righteous and reputable relations among the four brothers Sree Rama, Lakshmana, Bharatha and Shatrughna. The down to earth character of Lord Rama to leave the kingdom to his brother Bharatha, the dedicated effort of Lekshmana to follow the foot prints of Rama to forests, the unparalleled love and respect of Bharatha and Shatrughana to Rama is depicted in Ramayana. Read More

Lakshmi Pooja - Sheepothi Orukkal

Karkkidakam is considered as the month of Goddess Lakshmi. Special poojas will be conducted during this month for pleasing Lakshmi Devi. On the last day of Mithunam, the Chetta (Jyeshta Devi,Alkshmi or Ashree) from the house is being thrown out.The interior and exterior of the house is thoroughly cleaned and old and damaged utensils, brooms , pots etc are blown or destroyed before the sunset. This is called Chettaye Purathakkal. Then the house is purified by sprinkling dung water (which is considered as sacred among Hindus) and make ready to welcome Mahalekshmi. Not only the exterior clean is done on this occasion but the purification of mind and body is also observed. Read More

Karkkidaka Vavu - Pithru Tharppanam

Amavasi or new moon day in Karkkidakam is called Karkkidaka Vavu and is famous for Pithru Tharppana or Vavubali. Vaavubali is a significant rite, which is performed, at the places of water bodies (rivers, lakes, sea) for the sake of the souls of ancestors and intimates. Bali-tharpanam' will be held with religious fervour at various temple ghats and other ‘theertha ghats' in Kerala. Usually Lakhs of people including women and children will offer ‘bali' at specially arranged ‘balippura' on the banks of the holy rivers, sea and ponds. Hindus believe that the ritual performed on the new moon day in the month of Karkidakom will propitiate the spirits of their forefathers and bring good fortune in the year ahead. Read More

Pilleronam (Onam of Children)

Pilleronam or Onam of Children is celebrated on Karkkidaka Thiruvonam day. This Onam is celebrated as a mini Onam. Pilleronam was a prominent ritual in Kerala once upon a time but had faded as years went by. Pilleronam was usually celebrated 27 days before Thiruvonam in the month of Chingam. It was believed that there would be a break of about 10 days from the rains in Karkkidakam month and Pilleronam was celebrated in one of these days. It is a shortened version of the Onam, sans the Onakkodi (new dress), Athapookkalam (floral decoration), etc. except the Onasadya (Onam feast). Read More

Ganapathy Homam and Bhagavathi Seva

Most of the temples in Kerala will conduct Ganapathy Homam in the morning and Bhagavthi Seva in the evening throughout Karkkidakam. This is to protect the villegers from natural calamities, illness etc. So offer a Ganapathy Homam and Bhagavathy Seva at your village temple for the wellness of your familiy and village.

Anayoottu and Sukha Chikitsa for Elephants

During Karkkidakam temples in Kerala will witness Anayoottu. Marking the beginning of the treatment season for elephants, a mass feast for elephants will be held at the Vadakkumnathan Temple at Thrissur on Karkkidakam 1, attracting elephant lovers from far and wide. Freshly bathed jumbos with sandal-paste and vermilion on their foreheads will line up at the southern tower of the temple, to be fed with balls of rice mixed with ghee and turmeric, fruits, cucumber, dried coconut, sugarcane and jaggery. The occasion called `anayoottu' also offers the jumbo fans a chance to give a lump of candy or jaggery to the majestic animal. Similar feasts will be organised in other temples also.

Ayurveda – The Science of Life

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 15 Jul 2016 02:16:00 +0000

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Introduction

India is known for its traditional medicinal systems—Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani. Medical systems are found mentioned even in the ancient Vedas and other scriptures. The Ayurvedic concept appeared and developed between 2500 and 500 BC in India. The literal meaning of Ayurveda is “science of life,” because ancient Indian system of health care focused on views of man and his illness. It has been pointed out that the positive health means metabolically well-balanced human beings. Ayurveda is also called the “science of longevity” because it offers a complete system to live a long healthy life. It offers programs to rejuvenate the body through diet and nutrition. It offers treatment methods to cure many common diseases such as food allergies, which have few modern treatments. However, one should be aware that Ayurvedic nutrition is not a “magic bullet” system but requires the full participation of the patient to succeed. It is an interactive system that is user-friendly and educational. It teaches the patient to become responsible and self-empowered. Ayurveda is not a nutritional system for those seeking an escape or excuse to further abuse their body or mind. It is a system for empowerment, a system of freedom, and long life.

Ayurveda in Kerala

The state of Kerala stands out prominently in the backdrop of India's rich Ayurvedic tradition. Centuries have passed since the various Ayurvedic treatments and food habits have become an integral part of the Keralite lifestyle. This is so because Ayurveda is not simply a mode of healthcare in Kerala, but also a fundamental approach to life. You can find hundreds of herbs with medicinal properties in the courtyards of Kerala houses. The easy availability of such a wide variety of herbal medicine in Kerala has facilitated the development of several unique medicines and treatment methods over the years.

ALSO SEE: - Trips Retreat Package with Ayurveda Wellness Programme

Disease as an Ayurvedic Concept

The concept of 'one medicine for one disease' is almost non-existent in the traditional mode of ayurvedic treatment. The basic premise in Ayurveda is to view diseases as a result of an imbalance in the body's constitution. An ayurvedic practitioner not only tries to get to the root of his patient's disease, but also tries to obtain a deeper understanding of the patient's constitution and rectifies any imbalance associated with it by ordering the requisite treatment.

Rejuvenation Therapy

Ayurveda is not only a means to cure existing diseases but can also safeguard the body by preventing the contraction of diseases. The foremost out of such ayurvedic therapies is rejuvenation, where all the harmful toxins in the body are flushed out with the aid of ayurvedic herbs and brought to the elementary canal. These toxins are then ejected from the body through panchakarma or one of the five acts. This results in a drastic improvement of the overall constitution of the patient undergoing the treatment as well as the strengthening of his or her immune system.

Panchakarma

This is the essence of Ayurvedic treatment. Promising results can be seen even in incurable diseases. Through a series of systematic treatment regimens, body is purified and normal rhythm of life is regained. Each module is planned to work on the whole body. Emesis, Oil enema, Medicinal enema and nasal sinus cleansing are the fivefold procedures known as Panchakarma.

Swedanam-medicated steam bath

Different combinations of herbs are boiled in water and this medicated steam mobilizes accumulated ama (toxins inside the body) in the srotas (body channels) and thus fee your body of toxins.

Abhyangam

A unique massage, which rejuvenates and balances the energies.

Snehadhara

Rightly named the Stream of Love, this involves pouring warm medicated oil in a rhythmic way and gently massaging it on the whole body. Recommended for Diabetic Neuropathy, Poor blood circulation, stroke and spinal disorders.

Shirodhara

This treatment is indicated for the diseases affecting brain. It involves pouring medicated oil (dhara) on the crucial points on forehead as prescribed by the Vedas. It provides cooling refreshment to your head recommended for stress, anxiety and sleeplessness.

Njavara Kizhi

Njavara(Special type of rice with high medical value) is cooked with herbal decoction and milk. It is made up in to boluses and tied up in cotton bags A massage with medicated oil and then with these boluses helps the body to foment, rejuvenates and tones up weak muscles. Effective in spine related problems, arthritis, stroke and muscle weakness.

ALSO SEE:- Trips Ayurvedic Tour to Kerala

Misconceptions about Ayurveda

A large number of people believe Ayurvedic treatment simply means body massage, with the aid of medicated oils. To banish this common misconception, ayurvedic treatment cannot be restricted to only massage. Massage is merely one of the numerous treatment methods. Ayurvedic treatments can vary from case to case, according to the requirements of the patient. Even the duration of the treatments can range from 7 to 14 or 21 or even more days, with the treatments also differing drastically. Ayurvedic remedies and treatments can also cure most of the chronic ailments like paralysis, arthritis or back pain. The duration of the treatment may vary depending on the complexity and chronic nature of the disease.

ALSO SEE: - Trips Cruise Package to Kerala

Process of Treatment

After the course of the treatment is over, Ayurveda imperatively orders a period of rest, the duration of which is almost as long as that of the treatment. This is in order to provide the body time to adapt to the changes in its constitution and to revert back to its regular functioning. The ayurvedic vaidyan or practitioner prescribes numerous dietary restrictions which have to be strictly followed during the course of the treatment and the subsequent resting period. Ayurvedic treatments, especially rejuvenation, are readily available in numerous hotels and resorts in Kerala. There are also a number of hospitals and rational Ayurvedic Vaidya families which offer similar treatments throughout Kerala.

Benefits of Ayurvedic Medicine

Ayurvedic medicine is particularly effective for metabolic, stress related, and chronic conditions. Treatments are also very helpful in relieving the effects of surgery and debilitating treatments such as chemotherapy. Other popular uses of Ayurveda are for general rejuvenation and beauty care.

How to Plan Your Treatment

For the treatment of chronic diseases or any other serious health problems, you can get into touch with ayurvedic practitioners dealing in these specific ailments. Before planning your trip, you can contact the physician via email and share your medical history and details. Such records will enable him to identify your problems easily.

After obtaining the sufficient information, the physician will provide you with information to formulate a comprehensive healthcare and treatment plan for your visit including the treatment methods, number of days, resting period and diet regime. After you reach Kerala, doctor can fine-tune the course of treatment prescribed by him after a through personal examination of the patient.

ALSO SEE: - Trips Coog Tour to India

Best Time to Receive Ayurvedic Treatment in India

The rainy season, during the monsoon from June to September, is an ideal time for ayurvedic treatment because the atmosphere remains cool, moist, and dust free. This helps the body’s pores to open up, making it most receptive to herbal oils and therapy.

Where is Ayurvedic Treatment Available in India?

Most places that offer Ayurvedic treatment are located in the southern state of Kerala, due to the climate and abundant supply of medicinal plants and herbs there. You’ll also find quite a few Ayurvedic centers in Goa and Karnataka.

The increasing number of Ayurvedic resorts and Ayurvedic massage centers stand testimony to their popularity as well as business potential. Kerala Tourism Department has taken necessary measures to safeguard consumers from falling prey to unauthentic practices and practitioners. Any recognized Ayurvedic center in Kerala should have one of the following certifications:

Olive Leaf Certification
Green Leaf Certification

See the Criteria for the Certification

Kerala Homestay - Home Away from Home

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 13 Jul 2016 02:49:00 +0000

https://www.facebook.com/tripsdmc/

Introduction

“When you are in Rome, Act as the Romans” as the saying goes like this, the tourists from all over the world who visit Kerala want to do precisely as the Keralites do. Here is the importance of “Homestays”. Homestays are gradually gaining a foothold in the tourism map of Kerala. They promote a different brand of tourism, one which combines the elements of farm, cultural and pilgrim tourism targeting foreign tourists. In most cases the ancestral house or estate bungalow is being converted to a homestay with a little bit of refurbishment.

Tipping in Kerala, India

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 10 Jul 2016 03:21:00 +0000

https://www.facebook.com/tripsdmc/

Introduction

Do whatever you feel right; it is your holiday in India is the first rule that come to Indian Tipping Culture. And even those who are willing to leave that small token of appreciation behind are not very clear about how much to give. Here we tell you when to tip, how much to tip, and when you should definitely not tip.

Whenever you are visiting Kerala or India and you are in the habit of giving tips, it should be ensured that you are carrying enough Rupees 10, rupees 50 and rupees 100 cash notes with you. This can be used as rough guide on how much you should be tipping in India and at which instances. Wages in Kerala are on the lower side when compared to other developed countries like USA and UK and most people who will be serving you in India still earn less than 2 USD per day. You should tip because you are making someone who helped you really happy. However there are some cases where you should not tip at all if you feel that you have been overcharged and poorly serviced, For Rg: Lot of rickshaws and taxis automatically increase the price manifold when they know that you are not familiar with the country and you should not tip as you had been overcharged. Tip only if you got a special service from someone especially when you are Tipping in Kerala.

Everyone in Kerala likes tips. The taxi driver, the room boy in the hotel, the laundry maid, the tour guide, the restaurant waiter and everyone else you meet on your Kerala holidays will love to get a tip and you can oblige if you are a generous person who doesn’t mind paying a tip if in fact you have received something special as a service that exceeded your expectations. If you like to keep people happy and does not want to disappoint someone then the right thing is to give a tip.

We do recommend tipping at various instances like below, but tip higher only when you received superior services and you feel an individual went out of his way to help you and you extremely satisfied.

ALSO SEE: - Special Cruise Shore Excursion in Cochin, Kerala

How much to Tip in Kerala?

Most of the resorts/ restaurants in India have a concept called service Charge which is a different item in the bill that service tax (which is a government levied tax). If service charge is a part of the bill then you may not pay any extra tip at the restaurant and hotels. However a better way is to look at the amount of the service charge or percentage of the service charge and see whether that is much lesser than the amount that you had in mind as the tip. If the amount is much lesser than what you wanted to give then you can pay the difference as rupee notes.

The thumb rule in most of the hotels, restaurants and roadside cafes is that you can pay 10% of the bill amount as the tip if there is no service charge. Please note that you have to tip in rupees and not in your currency and don’t compare tips in India to the absolute value of the tip that you may give in dollars, euros or pounds.

There are also some hotels, restaurants in India where the tips are not accepted or provided to charity through a collection box near the reception. If you have a meal at a place like that please be assured that the tips will be actually going for the charity for which they are volunteering for.

ALSO SEE: - Special Cruise Package on Muziris Heritage Project at Cochin

Tipping at Restaurants/ Hotel/ House Keeping

Tipping at hotels in Kerala may be demanding, slightly confusing at times. However the general rule is to pay 10% of the actual payment that you made for the service availed.

In Indian hotels and home stays, room staff and lift boys carry your luggage, the try to give them get Rs. 20 per bag on the first day of the arrival. If you are tipping on the first day of the arrival, expect a pleasing and friendly demeanor from the hotel staff during the course of your stay or more appropriately to prevent bad service later.

In luxury or high end hotels , if more than three people stay in a suite or room, pay a higher amount per night. You can leave the tip on a pillow or in a similarly obvious place with a note saying Thank You.

ALSO SEE: - Two Days Cruise Shore Excursion at Cochin

Tipping Tour Guides, Kerala Houseboat Staff and Taxi drivers in Kerala

When you take any vehicle on rent, and you received the service above your expectations you can give a tip of around Rs.300 for day . If the driver took you to the kind of shops and places that you wanted and not the usual places where he may get commission anyway, ensure that you are tipping the person handsomely. Same applies for the local tour guides as well and if you are availing the services for multiple day then you can pay Rs.300 multiplied by number of days of service depending on happy you were with their services.

When you avail the services of houseboats in Kerala as well you can follow the same rule and you can give a tip of around Rs.300 for day for staff or anyone who was serving you. However please increase the amount if there are more people who helped you to make your day memorable. Usually in Kerala Houseboats , there will be three crew members comprising of two oarsmen and a cook and a tip of Rs.750 for a single day is a good tip. You can hand it over face to face when you are checking out with a Thank You message.

ALSO SEE: - Kerala Tour Packages

For valets

Valet parking is a service provided by many restaurants, hotels, health clubs and malls. Warrick says, "When it comes to valet parking staff, the tips could be in the range of `10- 50, depending on the type of establishment." At malls or in parking lots, it's perfectly all right not to pay a tip at all.

In Salons and Spas

Tipping at a salon or spa can be tricky as most customers get multiple things done and cannot determine how much each staff member should be paid. Warrick says 10% of the bill should be divided among the staff serving you and you must pay each individual separately. If you are only getting your hair done, then 10% of the bill for the hairdresser is acceptable.

For Home Delivery

The pizza boy who brings a hot meal to your doorstep deserves a token of appreciation. Here the recommended amount is `10 per delivery. Grocers and chemists who home deliver should also be given a tip, in the range of `5-10 per delivery. When the delivery is not free, be under no obligation to pay.

ALSO SEE: - Special Personalized Retreat Packages

Porter Tipping in Kerala.

Most of the porters in airport and train stations will negotiate the charges before hand even before lifting your bags. A thumb rule is that porters should be tipped approximately Rs 20 for a medium sized bag assuming that they get it loaded on a trolley operated by them and keep you company until you are inside the area designated for travelers.

You can also tip Travel Agency Representative who meets you at the airport, Tuk Tuk/Cycle Rickshaw, Street Vendors of food and handicrafts, Shoe Handlers at Temples/Mosques, barber and masseur etc if you feel so. You should also remember that you can tip anyone who does a service for you without a hint of asking anything in return and tipping in India is not mandatory, you may not leave a tip if you don’t want to.

Before or After?

In many countries, customers tip the servers beforehand to ensure better service. This trend is picking up in India. But for many, the question remains whether to tip at all or not. Warrick has the answer. "If you don't like the service, it's perfectly all right not to pay anything at all. You should never feel obligated to tip."

https://www.tripadvisor.in/Travel-g191-s606/United-States:Tipping.And.Etiquette.html

http://ny.curbed.com/2014/3/24/10127756/how-much-to-give-hotel-staff-the-ultimate-guide-to-tipping

http://indiasomeday.com/tipping-in-india.aspx

https://usattravel.wordpress.com/2015/07/16/why-you-should-always-tip-your-hotel-housekeeper/

Tips by Trips for Trippers to Kerala

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 08 Jul 2016 16:21:00 +0000

https://www.facebook.com/tripsdmc/

Best time to Visit

High season: September-May

Monsoon Rejuvenation programmes: June-August

Indian Time

Indias time zone is GMT/UTC +5.30 and can expect jet lag for International passengers. We recommend you to get onto Indias time zone before you leaves your home town and try to eat and sleep on Indian time. This helps you to get adjusted fast to start enjoying your trip.

Visa and Travel Insurance

Foreign passengers are required to obtain a VISA from the nearest Indian Consulate and remember to apply for the VISA at least 14 days before date of arrival and buy adequate travel insurance

Flight Ticker and Train Tickets

While doing flight reservations, you can book to Cochin (Kochi), Trivandrum or Calicut depends on your travel plan and with the consultation of your travel agent.

While booking train tickets if you are trying for Cochin, search Ernakulam which is same as Cochin. There is no railway station by name Cochin and code for Ernakulam is ERN or ERS

Money
There is no limit to the amount of foreign currency that visitors can bring. There are lots of ATMs at most of the places there by avoiding carrying more cash with you.

Banks
Banks are open for transaction from 10:00 - 15:30 hrs on weekdays and on First and third Saturdays. Second and Fourth Saturdays will be holidays.

Credit Cards

Main hotels, restaurants and shopping centres honour major credit cards.

Ornaments

For your safety, try to carry minimal gold ornaments.

Carry Your Camera and Binoculars

Your camera is must for the gorgeous place you share with your family or partners at Kerala needs to be frozen in time. Binoculars are most important if you are planning to hit the wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala.

Take permission for photography

Some temples in Kerala and other religious institutions many not be photographed without prior permission. Hence, respect the rules.

Carry tanning cream and sun guard lotions

The beached in Kerala are wonderful gateways for tourist. But, the bright ubiquitous sun is ready to give you a perfect tan. Use the sun as you prefer. Get a tan, or get away from it.

Avoid Strangers

Don’t respond to the genial ‘Hello’ of a conman and never catch the eye of professional beggar.

Try out authentic Kerala Cuisine

The spices of Kerala make a lip smacking table. Remember that.

Sail out on a local Fishing Boat

If you want the rural experience, abandon the resort yacht and sail hire a local fisherman to take you out of the seas. May be get a help from your tour operator and he provides you a safe journey.

Coconut Water

The coconuts in Kerala are mind blowing. The sugariness of their water puts sugar syrup to shame. Do not miss it. Click the picture to read my blog on the values of Tender Coconut water.

Drinking water

Carry enough mineral water with you and mineral water bottle will be available in most of the shops in Kerala. Keep yourself hydrated with water and other juices when you are sightseeing. On some days heat in Kerala can be intense and can sap your energy.

Clothes

Put on soft cotton clothing on the beaches. For the hill stations carry light warm clothing as the nights can get chilly. Winter brings cold nights on the Western Ghats.

Houseboats

The best way to explore the Backwaters is on a houseboat. Bargain hard- prices are always jacked up whenever shopkeepers spot a tourist and a foreign tourist at that. So Be Careful to purchase anything in India.

Drugs
Heavy penalties including imprisonment for possession of narcotic drugs.

Ayurveda
You can get Ayurveda Wellness Treatment In Kerala. However go only to those Green Leaf & Olive Leaf classified Ayurveda centres that are approved by the Kerala Tourism Department.

Temple Codes

Some temples do not permit entry to non-Hindus. Strict dress codes are followed in most of the temples. Footwear is banned inside the temple premises.

Nudity
Nudity is not allowed in any Kerala beach.

Smoking
Smoking is banned in public places.

Footwear in Houses

Visitors to most Kerala houses leave their footwear outside before entering the house.

Demonstrativeness in Public

Behaviour, demonstrating affection in public like hugging or kissing is not an accepted practice in Kerala.

Avoid Night Journey

It is not recommended to travel after 7PM as there will be fog on the road and is danger to drive during this time. Try to reach your hotel before 7PM so that you get enough time for relaxing and re-energizing yourself for the next day.

Accommodation
Plan your trip well in advance. Make your bookings in time and choose a hotel that suits you as well as your budget. As soon as you arrive here, your needs will be taken care of by the hotel you are staying in. Home stays are a good option if you want to experience the traditional Kerala lifestyle. Ask the hotel staff for information about the places you wish to see. Ask for a guide who can show you around.

It is advisable to take the package with breakfast only. If you opt for a package with lunch/dinner you would have already paid for the food and if you are not liking the food from the hotel you do not have any other option than wasting your money

Sightseeing
You can hire a taxi and be chauffeured around or you can even use public transportation. However, choose public transportation only if you know the place or have a person who can guide you. Most of the places of interest in Kerala do not have expensive entry fees and you won’t have to stand in long queues to get them. The weather is mostly humid, hence it is advisable to have plenty of water with you.

Shopping
Largely a consumer state, Kerala has a number of shops selling textiles, gold ornaments and other handicrafts. The mall culture is becoming popular in cities like Cochin, Trivandrum and Thrissur. Traditional Kerala settu mundu and kasavu sarees can be bought at Kasavukada, a brand name in Kerala Sarees. Handicrafts such as mirrors, wooden boats, Chinese fishing net models, elephants made out of wood etc are souvenirs you might want to take back. Khataisons and Surabhi on MG Road, Cochin are outlets that sell such handicrafts. Unlike rest of India, there is very little scope for bargaining. Almost all the shops have fixed prices.

Food
The cuisine of Kerala has varieties of vegetarian and non-vegetarian delights. The seafood specialities are something you cannot afford to miss. The naadan sadya (traditional feast), an all-vegetarian meal, served on plantain leaves is a favourite among both vegetarians and non-vegetarians. The food is generally spicy but if you are not fond of spices you can try out the various appams (a fluffy pancake made out of fermented rice flour) which go well with vegetable and meat stews that are low on spices.

Emergency Number

100 is the emergency number to call the nearest police station and 101 is the emergency number for fire station.

Self Drive

If you want to drive a vehicle in Kerala and you are a foreign citizen, carry your international driving license

Tips

People expect tips in Kerala and the usual standard is ten percentage of the service amount. You may have to do tipping in Kerala in taxis, Hotels, cafes, porters, tourist guides, travel assistance and restaurants.

Taxis

You can book the taxis directly from airports at a reasonable rate if you take any prepaid cabs and you can also take rental cars or other vehicles including bicycles. In such cases make sure that you return them on the referred date and time and they don’t take extra charges for unnecessary reasons.

Use Mobile Travels Apps

Get a good smart phone using which you can use any of the best travel android applications that will help you to enjoy more of your holiday with less hassles.

Be Safe in the Beaches

In beaches always listen to the lifeguard and tourist police. The waves may be good for bathing and surfing, but there may be rocks underneath and they could hide a current or a sudden depression.

Trip’s Welcome Drink

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 07 Jul 2016 09:05:00 +0000

https://www.facebook.com/tripsdmc/

Introduction

In our day to day shore excursion we used to provide “Tender coconut water” as the welcome drink of the tour. The entire guest without any hesitation consumes this drink and interestingly participates in the voyage. Even some of the guest preferred to drink the tender coconut in between the tour, when they feel exhausted. I have also seen that many tour operators in Kerala provided Tender Coconut as the welcome drink for their programmes.

I have got this custom of providing tender coconut as welcome drink to the guest from my parents. I have seen in the childhood, when some special guests come to home, my father calls the labours and prepares tender coconut for them.

Coconut water is the ultimate thirst quencher and offers a tasty alternative to water. This pure liquid is packed with nutrients that yield an array of health benefits. Here are 8 Benefits of Coconut Water that explain why it has become so popular:

Aids in Weight-loss Efforts.

The fat content in coconut water is extremely low, so generous quantities can be consumed without the fear of immediately packing on the pounds. It also suppresses the appetite and makes you feel full because of its rich nature.

Picture-Perfect Skin.

For those with acne or other blemishes on the surface of the skin, topical application of coconut water can go a great distance as it has the ability to clear up and subsequently tone the skin. It also moisturizes the skin from within if ingested orally and eliminates large amounts of oil. This explains why products such as facial creams, shampoos, conditioners and lotions that contain traces of coconut extract are more effective.

Next time you overdo it and drink more than your belly can handle, consume coconut water to settle your stomach. It will also replace those essential electrolytes that exit the body if you experience bouts of frequent urination and vomiting.

If you constantly encounter difficulty during the digestion process, coconut water may provide a source of relief. Because of its high concentration of fiber, it aids in the prevention of indigestion and reduces the occurrence of acid reflux.

Boosts Hydration.

The ingredients in coconut water are way more effective at hydrating the human body than those of sports and energy drinks. During rigorous exercise or extended periods of physical activity, the human body loses mineral-rich fluids. However, coconut water serves as an excellent replacement medium with 294 mg of potassium and 5 mg of natural sugar per glass, unlike your favorite sports drink that only contains half of the potassium content and five times the amount of processed sugar. In addition, the sodium count is only 25 mg, which is relatively low compared to the 41 and 20 mg found in sports drinks and energy drinks respectively.

Reduces Blood Pressure.

In many instances, a disproportionate level of electrolytes can result in high blood pressure. Because coconut water contains an adequate supply of each, it can be used as a balancing mechanism. In some instances, it is recommended that coconut water be consumed at the start of each day to foster the balance of these electrolytes.

Unlike any other beverage on the market, coconut water contains five essential electrolytes that are present in the human body. These include: calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, potassium and sodium. Because of its unique composition, coconut water can be enjoyed by individuals with varying medical conditions.

Compatible with Human Blood.

Since it is isotonic to human plasma, coconut water can be used in extreme emergencies to quickly rehydrate the human body if administered intravenously. It is not uncommon for the drink to be used in poorer, third-world countries to save human lives.

How Much Should You Consume during our Journey?

Coconut water can be enjoyed as a stand-alone beverage or combined with another liquid product. There is no hard and fast rule regarding the amount that should be consumed on a daily basis, but experts from the Mayo Clinic strongly suggest that you consider maintaining an active lifestyle if consuming large amounts of coconut water since each eight ounce serving is accompanied by 45 to 60 calories.

When searching for the perfect fresh coconut to enjoy, be sure to steer clear of those that have a hard brown shell as this is an indication that it is mature. Instead, look for those that are young and green on the exterior as they usually contain a large supply of the actual coconut water substance. To test it out, simply shake the coconut up and down to gauge how much liquid it contains.

Trips Tours & Travels provide “Tender Coconut” as the welcome drink of our programme and which keep the guest as pleasant and enjoyable in the entire tour. Let’s enjoy the trip with Trips

NB : drinking too much Coconut water will cause stomach issues.

Cheraman Masjid - An Emblem of Religious Harmony

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 06 Jul 2016 03:17:00 +0000

Introduction

Today, Eid-ul-Fitr: Celebrations to mark the end of Ramzan – wishing you all “Eid Mubarak”.

Eid, popularly known as Eid-ul-Fitr, is a festival observed by the Muslim community to celebrate the conclusion of the month of fasting. Eid-ul-Fitr literally means 'festival of breaking the fast'. Like other festivals observed by the Muslim community, this festival symbolizes faith. Today I would like to write about “Cheraman Juma Masjid at Kodungallur, Kerala, India. This is the first mosque in Asia and second one in the world.

Cherman Juma Masjid, Kodungallur

Present Picture of Cheraman Masjid

One will find nothing unusual about this place of worship for Muslims as one drives past this town in central Kerala, just 30km north of Kochi. But it’s when you go in and chat up with the volunteers and office-bearers that the enormity of its legacy actually hits you.

For Cheraman Jumah Masjid in this town, also known by its anglicized name Cranganore, is not just the oldest in India and the subcontinent but one built during the lifetime of Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) in AD629 by an Arab propagator of Islam, Malik Bin Dinar. Local traditions have it that Cheraman Juma Masjid in Kerala was established in the year 629CE. An inscription in Arabi-Malayalam language on the gate of the masjid gives the date as 5 Hijri. This makes Cheraman Juma Masjid in Kodungallur in the Thrissur district of Kerala, the first mosque of India and one of the oldest in the whole world.

It is also testimony to two facts. One, Islam came to India long before the Mughals came in from the northwest. Two, the entry of Islam was smooth and Muslims enjoyed the full patronage of the locals irrespective of their religions — a facet that is still visible and cherished here.

This mosque stands proud with two other landmarks of Kodungallur, also known as Muziris an ancient port town in India. The first is the Saint Thomas Church, also said to be among the first in India built by the Apostle himself around 52AD. He had arrived here in India and the church has some holy relics from the olden days. The second is the Bhagavathy Temple of Cheran ruler Chenguttavan, also known as Vel Kelu Kuttuvan, around 150AD.

Vidyarambham At Cheraman Masjid

In fact, in a manifestation of India’s cultural syncretism, many non-Muslims are its devotees and hold “Vidhyarambham”, or the commencement of education ceremony for their children at this mosque. During Ramadan, iftar offerings are often made by the non-Muslim communities in the area.

Legends on the Masjid

There are several legends surrounding the Cheraman Jumah mosque. As one goes: It was built under the patronage of the last Chera king, Cheraman Perumal, who is also believed to have abdicated his throne and embraced Islam upon meeting the Prophet at Makkah.

But before he died at Dhofar in Oman due to some illness on the way back to India, he wrote some letters asking the local rulers, to whom he had handed over his empire, to extend all help they could to some Arab merchants who were planning to visit India.

One such merchant, Malik Bin Dinar, was given permission by local chieftains to build Islamic places of worship around the area. The mosque accordingly is called the Cheraman Mosque in recognition of the help extended by the last Chera ruler.

This apart, Malik Bin Dinar, who was also a “sahaba” or a companion of the Prophet, was the mosque’s first Gazi, succeeded by his nephew Habib Bin Malek. Both Habib Bin Malek and his wife are entombed at the Cheraman Juma Masjid.

Interested reader can click on the image to know the authenticity of the myths as well as other versions.

Renovations happened at Masjid

Inside view of the Mosque

Located on National Highway-17, Cheruman Juma Masjid is an important Kerala landmark. The place is called Cheraman Malik Nagar in the honor of King Cheraman Perumal and Malik Bin Dinar.

The original mosque itself has undergone several renovations. The oral traditions have it that the first such refurbishment took place in the 11th century and again some 300 years later. In the modern era a revamp was done in 1974, after which a reconstruction happened in 2001.

A donation box in brass that had been kept in the mosque
for centuries before

But, the original hall and internal structure including the sanctum sanctorum has been preserved have been preserved. Four minarets have been added in one of the later renovations but attempts have been made to give the look and feel of the old structure in the exterior of the building. Minarets and a dome are also modern-day additions. Yet, despite the renovations, a striking amalgam of different cultures and religions is in full play at the grand old mosque.

Kerala Features in the Mosque

Ignore the minarets, and the small dome and you can imagine how this building would have looked like hundreds or a thousand years ago. The museum on site has pictures and a model of the old structure to help you imagine.

Old Pulpit in the Mosque

The original structure did not look like anything foreign, the architecture and design both inside and outside resembles local influence. It was a double storied structure with a sloping tiled roof. Unlike the mosques of North India, there are no minarets or Arabic calligraphy or complex geometrical patterns on the outside the building. The simple entrance must have been inviting and not intimidating, a reflection on how Islam came to Kerala and got well entrenched in the land.

The main room, which is the part of the original structure, is small. It probably can host only about four rows of 15 people for prayers. There is an old wooden mimbar with an intricate design. Along with fans hanging from the ceiling, there is a big brass lamp, not unlike what can be found in a Hindu temple. This lamp also has inscriptions in old Malayalam script Vattezhuthu.

In true style of temples in the south, the mosque also has a pond. Then the minber, or the pulpit from where the Imam delivers sermons, has some intricate carvings and lacquer work, which is again unique to southern India. There are also some other artefacts from the times gone by, such as the redstones that were used to as building material in sizes uncommon today, and an ancient sewage channel.

A symbol of thriving commerce between India and the Arab world

Recently the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi gifted Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz a gold-plated replica of the Cheraman Juma Masjid and it was underlining the trade links that existed between India and Saudi Arabia since the first millennium BC. But the Masjid is also the symbol of the peaceful entry of Islam into the Indian subcontinent followed by centuries of harmonious coexistence with religions

Whether or not the folklore surrounding the origin of the mosque is true is a matter of speculation. However, the story’s significance lies in the reference to Arab traders visiting India as early at the seventh century AD. As a coastal trading society, international trade was an enormous part of Kerala’s history and economy, especially Kodungallur, then called Muziris by foreign traders. Spices, the fuel of the ancient world’s trading networks, were its principal commodity of export. Since 3000 BC Assyrians and Babylonians had been trading with Kerala. By the beginning of the first millennium AD, the Egyptians and Greeks, as well as the Chinese had started trading with the Malabar coast.

The Arabs were pioneers in international trade much before Islam spread its wings. “Essentially, everyone came to Kerala for its spices, but the Arabs were the most successful at not only discovering direct sea routes but also sustaining regular contact. This meant that they and their network became the strongest in international waters, till the appearance of the Portuguese over a thousand years later,” said Manu Pillai, the author of “The Ivory Throne : Chronicles of the House of Travancore”. It is only the coming of the Europeans traders that disrupted Arab control of international trade in India.

An emblem of religious harmony

However, there is another aspect of the origin of the mosque that is important to note. Long before the first sword of Islam was raised in Sind around the 13th century, the religion had arrived through the peaceful embassies of commerce in India.

It is believed that the place at which the mosque now stands was previously occupied by a Buddhist Vihara. But Buddhism was already dying in Kerala, and the space was relinquished in favour of this new religion of the Arab traders. Another account states that the Hindu King who took over Kodungallur, after Cheraman left for Mecca, helped Malik Ibn Dinar convert a local Hindu temple into the mosque. While mosques all over the world face the Mecca, this one faces the East since it was originally built as a Hindu temple. The interiors of the mosque still carry traditional Hindu motifs and a brass oil lamp, generally found in Hindu temples here, is kept inside the mosque.

http://indianexpress.com/article/explained/narendra-modi-cheraman-juma-masjid-replica-saudi-king-gift/

http://www.thehindu.com/2003/10/06/stories/2003100606950400.htm

http://varnam.nationalinterest.in/2014/07/unraveling-the-cheraman-perumal-myth/

https://www.facebook.com/tripsdmc/

Cruise Special Shore Excursions @ Cochin Port

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 05 Jul 2016 04:49:00 +0000

Introduction

Cruise Tourism is becoming an increasingly popular ‘leisure choice’ worldwide Cruises, which were at one time considered the prerogative of the rich, the only option for the aged and the natural choice for honeymooners, is today fast reaching the wider leisure market. Representing one of the fastest growing sectors worldwide, cruise market trends indicate a qualitative as well as quantitative consolidation in the industry, with cruising gaining greater significance in the global ‘tourism pie’ and successful seizing a significant ‘niche’ market.

Cruise to India

India today is poised for making a significant mark in the international tourism scenario and right now, Cruises to India are available through several major cruise lines. Although itineraries for these cruises generally visit the Indian ports of Mumbai, Cochin and Marmagao (Goa), they vary considerably in terms of other featured destinations and points of embarkation, which may include ports in the Far East, the Middle East, North Africa and the Mediterranean.

Cruise Special @ Kochin Port

Cochin (Kochi), in the state of Kerala, is the most important port in Southern India, enjoying a strategic location between China and Europe. Cochin is a city that has served as a melting pot for diverse cultures over thousands of years. When the voyager visits this city on a shore excursion as part of an Asian cruise, will witness how the many traditions that have influenced Cochin's culture in the past affect the modern metropolis in the present.

There are various choices for the voyager to experience ‘Kerala in nutshell’ through a variety of pleasure trip explained below.

Cochin City Tour

Cochin sprawls over a large area that includes several islands, so one way to explore the city is by riding a boat through its canals. From these waterways, one can see the city's famous Chinese fishing nets, which are graceful cantilevered contraptions that are used by Cochin's many fishermen. Introduced by traders from China in the 14th century, these devices are a unique reminder of the city's diverse cultural heritage.

One important aspect of Cochin's culture comes from Indian traditions and no visit to the region is complete without a trip to the 19^th –century Mattacherry Palace built by the Portuguese and given to the Raja of Kochi. Mattancherry is also faimous for having “Jew Town” in its heart. This is a historical part of India, where the ancient Jews started their trading. This neighborhood is now famous for antique showroom. Jew Palace and the Jewish synagogue are two faimous landmarks.

The voyager can also watch the traditional art of Kerala, namely “kathakali," a performance that blends poetry, dance, music and mythology. When in town, one can learn more about the stories that underlie Indian religious heritage when you witness this colorful and exotic form of art. Another local tradition you have to see when you visit Cochin is kalaripayuttu, an ancient martial art that derives its movements from those of animals.

Cochin has been influenced heavily by European merchants as well. Established by Portuguese spice traders as a stopping point on the way to the East Indies, this fortification is also home to a famous church built in 1510 by Franciscan friars. Another important religious structure is the Cochin Synagogue. Built in 1568, this Jewish temple truly represents Cochin's blending of cultures, as it features floor tiles hand-painted with Cantonese designs. Meanwhile, the Dutch left their mark on Cochin as well, and you can see their legacy at the spectacular Dutch Palace.

Muziris Heritage

In this regard, it is very interesting to visit the International Tourist spot at Paravur, to be precise “Muziris Heritage Project” which is the amalgamation of Tangible and Intangible historical heritage of Kerala. Here, one can find the relics of “Muziris” the ancient port town India and which was the First Gateway to India as per the Spice Route. One can visit the First Jewish Synagogue in India which is built in the 16^th Century. It stands one of the best examples of communal harmony and brotherhood as here the church, Temple, Mosque and Jewish Synagogue all lay together within a stretch of one square kilometer. (30 minutes. It will be closed on Sundays). Vypee Kotta built in the 16^th Century by the Portuguese. Adjacent to the Seminary is an old Syrian Catholic Church, built in 1201. It is also the site where the first printing press in India came up. ‘Paliyam Palace’ –built by Dutch and gifted Paliyathachan, Minister for Raja of Kochin. ‘Cheraman Juma Masjid’, the first Mosque in Asia, ‘Kottapuram Fort’, Cherai Beach and other number of Temples.

Natural Fibre Craft of Kerala

To learn more about the industrious side of Kerala, you will want to pay a visit to the countryside. Here, you will find local artisans creating a wide variety of wares, ranging from pottery to carpets. Some of the most important products include coir, a fiber made from the husk of the coconut, and khadi, a light and breathable hand woven fabric. It is worthwhile to have short visit to the National Resource Centre for Natural Fibre Craft at Kodungallur, where one can see the various process of the production of daily utility eco-friendly products from natural fibre called Screwpine, Water Hyacinth, Banana Fibre, Talipot Fibre, Bamboo Fibre etc.

Backwater of Kerala

Finally, it is very important to have a small journey in the backwaters of Kerala. As you will slowly make your way into the waters paradise the waves will seem to lap faster than your racing heartbeat, the beauty of the Kerala backwaters will slowly descend upon you. Backwaters of Kerala being the most popular tourist’s hotspot remains crowed with nature lovers, avid travelers and specifically the honeymooners. The backwaters are a chain of brackish lagoons, lakes and rivers that adorn the lush beauty of the state of Kerala and its vicinities. Some of the most popular backwaters of Kerala are Alappuzha, Kumarakom, Kochi, Kollam, Kozhikode, Kottapuram and Trivandrum Backwaters which possess their own beauty and gorgeousness. Crowds of travelers are seen at the banks eagerly waiting for the houseboats to take them on a journey to the ever gleaming backwaters of Kerala which sparkle and chaotically dance around in the day and flow at night in a serpentine manner. Kerala backwaters offer the travelers with the most memorable journeys of their lifetime

Trips Tours & Travels

Trips Tours & Travels is an offshoot initiative of Rang De Basanti a DMC in Kerala, which facilitate the Cruise Special packages. It is huge task to cover all the destinations mentioned above in one day. Usually the cruise duck at the Cochin port at Morning and leave in the evening, hence a voyager gets maximum 6-7 hours to spend for Cochin shore excursion. Therefore it is voyager choice to select the destinations. If the voyager gets maximum two full days in Kochi, it is enough and more time to cover all the destinations.

For more details Please contact:- www.tripsglobal.org

Marottichal Waterfalls - Special Monsoon Attractions, Thrissur, Kerala, India.

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 04 Jul 2016 05:10:00 +0000

Marottichal is one of the less known hills in Thrissur district of Kerala, India. Though not recognized by the Kerala tourism department, the place is a host to several trekkers. Located in Thrissur district, Marottichal can be reached by driving around 25 km east from Amballur, NH 47. It is 57 KM away from the famous water fall namely Athirapilly.

In Marrottichal, a 4-hour trekking can take you to the top of hill. On the way you have several streams of water. At the top end you have a tall waterfall, at about 2 km walking distance from Marottichal bus stop. The waterfall has several branches at top. Walking through the cool shade of forest will give a great pleasure. The hill is also a grazing area of wild elephants.

Marottichal is home to two gorgeous waterfalls namely Olakkayam and Ilanjipara which are unexplored and virgin making it one of the finest spots for spending some tranquil moments amidst nature, away from the hustle and bustle of urban life.

Olakkayam waterfall is a place where one can swim and bathe amidst a green environ for a refreshing and relaxing feeling after an adventurous trek. After a brief leisurely 4KM trip from Olakkayam waterfalls to Ilanjippara waterfalls which still retain its virgin beauty, the site offers a peaceful escape to the smallest tourist.

The place with its abundance of flora and fauna offers some breathtaking views of the dense forest. Both waterfalls offer a wonderful view of nature’s beauty at its best with the waters falling from a cluster of rocks to a gorge below. The waterfalls play hosts to elephants during the summer season. It is best to venture there in groups especially to the Ilanjippara waterfalls on order to avoid any dangerous encounters.

Route to the destination

By Air: Nearest Airport is Cochin Internation Airport, 60 KM away

By Rail : Nearest Railway station is Thrissur and Chalakudy. Both these cities are well connected with the major town in and outside Kerala by an extensive rail network. The railway station is situated just 22km away from Morottichal. In Thrissur railway station there are regular trains form major stations in India.

By Road: Marottichal is connected by road with Kuttanellur in NH47, which is 14 KM away from Marottichal. Kuttanellur is 8 KM away from Thrissur KSRTC Bus Station. Thrissur is connected by road with several tourist centers and cities in Kerala.

For more details contact:

Trips Tours & Travels

www.tripsglobal.org

+91 7034222009

Trips Monsoon Rays- It is tripping

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 03 Jul 2016 05:15:00 +0000

I like monsoon. In this season, myself and my friend made a journey to Coorg to enjoy the beauty of “Coorg Monsoon”. But, it was just ‘hide and seek’ play between me and monsoon. When I started my journey from Kerala, it was heavy rain and it was the beginning of monsoon in Kerala. But, when I just crossed the border of Kerala, it was heavy summer in Karnattaka!!

Actually the journey we have planned as per the information from my friend in Coorg, that ‘there is heavy rain in Mysoore and coorg’. When we reached the destination my friend said:

“Still yesterday there was heavy rain in here!! When you arrived it is disappeared!!”

That is why I said it was a “hide and seek play” between me and monsoon. Anyhow, before our return journey to Kerala, we just experience a drizzling of “Rain in Coorg”.

There was bright smile on the lips of my friend!! And he said:

“I told you know, it was rainy here till day before yesterday!!”

I too smiled at him

The grueling summer is now a thing of the past. The sizzling sun has now given way to a cloudy sky and falling raindrops. It's time to enjoy the rains and bring in a sense of romance and wellness too.

As the first drops of rain touches the sand, the lovely smell tickles your noses and you know that the monsoons are here. Monsoons mean many things to many people, from the sign of a good harvest, to cars getting a good splash, evening tea and Bhaji’s (batter fried) and many more.

Monsoon is also the time to set out and explore nature in all its glory. The lush green expanses, the dew drops settled on the leaves, the pitter patter along nature trails, with streams and rivers filled to the brim, and cascading waterfalls, makes for wonderful views

I like to walk and dance in the rain. Throw caution into the winds. Feel the raindrops on cheek and enjoy a walk and dance in the rains with my friends. Nothing can match the joy of soaking in the rains. It will keep the blues away.

Rains are the best time to enjoy a hot cup of tea. Enjoy tea along with lip smacking snacks like pakodas, bhajis, samoosa etc. Curl up in a corner with a book and a cup of tea and enjoy the lashing rains. Or in a mood, go for a drive in my Chevrolet Sail and enjoy tea at Pilla Chettan’s roadside shop on the highway to Irinjalakuda.

Rains have been always associated with some great music. Whether it's classical music, Bollywood music or international music, the wonderful rains have always been able to weave musical magic. So, sit down and listen to music even as raindrops keep falling down. Let the music flow.

“Interesting …. Monsoon is too interesting…”

There are beautiful place to visit during this monsoon in Kerala. Trips Tours & Travels have special package on monsoon namely “Monsoon Rays”. It is the best time to undergo “Ayurvedic Wellness Treatment” in our package the wellness progarmmes also included.

Click the below link to visit the beautiful waterfall during monsoon

http://www.mustseeindia.com/articles/monsoon-magic-i-the-rumble-and-tumble-of-waterfalls/1325

Reference

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/relationships/man-woman/Soak-in-the-monsoon-magic/articleshow/20740083.cms

Tusker Rejuvenation @ 30

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 02 Jul 2016 04:15:00 +0000

It is time for 30 days Monsoon Rejuvenation for the elephants at Anakotta @ Guruvayur the largest elephant sanctuary in India

Introduction

What’s the closest you’ve ever gotten to an elephant? Most likely, it’s at least a few hundred yards, whether it is on safari, at the zoo, or at a circus. But there is a place where you can stand mere steps away from these majestic animals.

Punnthur Elephant Sanctuary (Guruvayur Anakotta)

Punnathur Kotta

Punnathur elephant sanctuary is the largest elephant sanctuary in India. It provides shelter to more than 59 elephants at a time. The punnathur elephant sanctuary is also known as Punnathur Kotta (Fort) or Anthavalam in Kerala. This sanctuary is owned and maintained by Guruvayur Sreekrishna temple Dewaswam. The most of the elephants in the Punnathur Kotta are ritual offerings made by the devotees of lord Guruvayurappa. These offerings are carried out at different points of time. The punnathur kotta is spread upto 15 acres of land for providing a good atmosphere for the elephants. When punnathur Kotta was established years ago, the land was not so vegetative. But after years, now this land is full of trees in order to provide the shadows for the elephants. The growth of Punnathur Kotta or Anathavalam was a combined effort of both Guruvayur devaswam and people of that village.

The “Monsoon Rejuvenation” programme of Jumbos at Anakotta started yesterday. This article will give you a comprehensible idea on rejuvenation programme for the elephant.

The “Monsoon Rejuvenation”

The elephants of Guruvayoor temple are among the most blessed creatures on earth. Come monsoon and they are pampered with a 30-day rejuvenation therapy, known as ‘sukhachikilsa’, which involves body wraps, special diet and herbal tonics. The elephants will be treated with sumptuous and highly nutritious food, laced with Ayurvedic and allopathic restorative medicines. The feast would be accompanied by an elaborate bath and message therapy. According to experts in elephant care, rainy season is the best time for rejuvenation treatment. The therapy is done during the Malayalam month of ‘Karkidakam' at the peak of monsoon. Elephants, barring 17 in ‘musth', will receive the therapy. The special diet includes rice, green gram, horse gram, ‘chyavanaprasam', ‘ashtachoornam', mineral mixture, turmeric powder, vitamin tonics, and salt.

The daily restorative therapy for the elephants, barring those in `musth’, starts with an elaborate and well-massaged bath in the ponds on the sprawling `aanakotta’ premises. They are then served with a sumptuous feast comprising rice, gram, digestive tonics like Ashtachurnam, mineral mixture, salt and other nutritional supplements. Allopathic medical supplements like Maltvirons are also given to the elephants daily during the `sukhachikitsa’.

The tuskers are divided into three categories, depending on their body weight, to calculate the amount of food they need. The elephants weighing 4,000 kg and above are included in ‘A’ category, those weighing 3,000 kg to 4,000 kg in the ‘B’ category and the others in the ‘C’ class.

The therapy is conducted under the supervision of veterinary doctors and elephant experts who ensure that the rejuvenation process is conducted scientifically. According to them, the elephants show considerable increase in body weight by about 150 kg to 250 kg after the therapy. There is also a positive change in the behaviour of the elephants after the therapy.

The Devaswom started the restoration therapy for elephants in a small way back in 1982, later it turned into a systematic and major annual programme toning up the health of the captive elephants. Many elephants of Guruvayoor like Guruvayoor Padmanabhan and Guruvayoor Kesavan have become legends in their own lifetime. Famous for their mammoth physique,intelligence and devotion to the Lord, they still enthrall the hearts of the elephant lovers worldwide. In view of the rising number of elephants at “Aanakotta” and the high cost of their maintenance, the Devaswom has discontinued elephant offering at the temple. Instead, the devotees who wish to make elephant offering are allowed to remit the cost of the elephant at the Devaswom.

History of Punnathurkotta

It is very interesting to note the history of Punnathurkotta as per Wikipedia:

Punnathurkotta is a fort and former palace located in Kottapadi, about 2 km from the Guruvayoor Sree Krishna Temple, in Thrissur District of Kerala State in South India.

Punnathurkotta was once the palace of a local ruler, but the palace grounds are now used to house the elephants belonging to the Guruvayoor temple, and has been renamed Anakkotta (meaning "Elephant Fort").

This facility is also used to train the elephants to serve Lord Krishna as well as to participate in many festivals that occur throughout the year. The oldest elephant is around 82 years of age and is called 'Ramachandran'. The rituals of Gajapooja (Worshipping Elephants) and Anayoottu (Feeding Elephants) are observed here, as an offering to Lord Ganesha. The legendary elephant "Guruvayur Keshavan" was housed here.

The compound also has a naalu kettu, a traditional rectangular home with a central courtyard, which belonged to the Punnathur Raja. It is poorly maintained and presently houses a training school for Papans (Mahout).

The visiting hours 9.30 am to 5.30 pm

Fee Rs. 10 for adults and Rs. 25 extra for photography

How to readh Punnathur Kotta

Nearest Airport:- Kochi International Airport (109 KM)

Nearest Railways station : Thrissur Railway Station (32 KM), Guruvayur Railway station (8KM)

Direction by road from nearby cities : well- connected by buses from Thrissur, Ernakulam, Kozhikode etc.

^Reference

^{http://www.folomojo.com/its-rejuvenation-time-for-guruvayoor-temples-elephants-and-artistes/http://www.guruvayurdevaswom.nic.in/elephants.html}