Kerala Tourism

Kochi-Muziris Biennale kerala

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 18 Dec 2012 12:20:00 +0000

The Kochi-Muziris Biennale is an international exhibition of contemporary art being held in Kochi, Kerala. It is the first Biennale being held in India. The exhibition will be set in spaces across Kochi, Muziris and surrounding islands. There will be shows in existing galleries and halls, and site-specific installations in public spaces, heritage buildings and disused structures. Indian and international artists will exhibit artworks across a variety of mediums including film, installation, painting, sculpture, new media and performance art.Through the celebration of contemporary art from around the world, The Kochi-Muziris Biennale seeks to invoke the historic cosmopolitan legacy of the modern metropolis of Kochi, and its mythical predecessor, the ancient port of Muziris. Alongside the exhibition the Biennale will offer a rich programme of talks, seminars, screenings, music, workshops and educational activities for school children and students.
The Birth Of Kochi-Muziris Biennale
In May 2010 Mumbai based contemporary artists of Kerala origin, Bose Krishnamachari and Riyas Komu was approched by, then culture minister of Kerala M.A Baby to start an international art project in the state. Acknowledging the lack of an international platform for contemporary art in India,Bose and Riyas proposed a biennale a large scale international exhibition in Kochi on the lines of Venice Biennale.
First Kochi-Muziris Biennale
The First Kochi-Muziris Biennale began on 12 December 2012(12/12/12). The biennale will host 80 artists with nearly 50 percent foreign artists, site-specific works and a sustained education programme in the three months.As a run-up to the event, in April, the Durbar Hall Kochi will host German modern artist Eberhard Havekost's exhibition “Sightseeing Trip”, held in collaboration with Dresden State Art Collections.

Rodo Valley to Meesapulimala trekking rate -Munnar trekking

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 08:32:00 +0000

Meesapulimala- one of the most beautiful and adventurous place in southern Kerala.This beautiful hilly area, surrounded by the thick forest and thick shrubs is well-known for the adventurous trekking and its own wildlife.

This place is very near to Munnar, and is one of the best place in Munnar for trekking lovers. Actually the trekking starts from a base camp known as Rhodo(Rodo) Valley. This place is around 15Kms away from Munnar Town, and is better to take Jeep to reach that place.the trekking includes mainly 9 hills and the very last one or the ninth one is the Meesapulimala.

The name Rodo Valley is derived from the name of a tree which is spotted widely in this area with deep red flowers and the name is Rhododendron Trees.

As the trekking starts through the hilly area to the first two hills, it will be little bit tough. After reaching the second hill, one will get a perfect view of Suryanelli town, and the Anayirankal lake. It is picturesque place where you can spot clouds behind and very near to you, with a breeze. If you are very lucky, you can enjoy the the beauty of blue hill made by Neelakkurinji Flowers, which will blossom only once in 12 years...!

After these 8 hills, now its the time to climb the Meesapulimala, the name comes, because, according to the local people there, the far view of this hill resembles the face of Tiger, and if you carefully looks, you also can feel the same. the Meesapulimala trekking is little bit a more tough task than the other hills, being it is considered as the second tallest peak in south India after Anamudi.

Also the top of the hill is situated in Kerala, and the border of Tamil Nadu is also at the top. One can spot Anamudi from here. Also if the mist allowes one will get a view of Kodiakanal Hills too...! Imagine at what height level, you are now...?

In the middle of trekking one can see some tea estates, just like a green grass land under blue sky, surrounded by or touched by the white clouds... and is mainly known as the Kolukkumala, and is the highest tea estates situated at 2175m above sea level, in Asia.

Next to go is Anayirankal lake, one of the beautiful lake situated in the valley of Meesappulimala.
Take care about what...?
As said already Meesappulimala is blessed with heavy vegetation, and is simply covered with forests, tall trees, and then grass lands, shrubs (always expect these shrubs which have a height more than you...!) and animals.

If you are very lucky you can spot Elephant groups on the way. According to the local people, elephants came always in the evening time. So have to make good courage while trekking. If you spot one, take the guidance from your guide, being he is the most experienced one in those forests, and he know the animals very well. don't try to take decisions your own at this time.

Also, chances of spotting Neelgiri Thars and small small wildlife, if you are lucky.

Also, one have to expect sudden rains on the way, and expect a cold at below 10 degrees always. As per the local guides there the warm night temperature at Rodovalley is always below 5 degrees...!

Also, it is better to plan a trekking with some travel agencies in Munnar. Because they will provide good food and accommodation facilities at the time of stay in the night.

How to reach there:
Cochin is the nearest ariport and NH49 binds cochin and munnar
By train, the nearest railway station to airport is Aluva

After munnar, kerala forest development corporation (K.F.D.C)Jeeps are available, and they will take you to Rodo Valley at a rate of 750Rs for one day.
1500 Rs for two days
2000 Rs for three days
Phone number:04865230332 ( K.F.D.C munnar)
:0486230567 (hotel hill view)

Padmanabhapuram Palace (പത്മനാഭപുരം കൊട്ടാരം )

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 13 Nov 2011 19:54:00 +0000

Padmanabhapuram Palace ( പത്മനാഭപുരം കൊട്ടാരം) complex is located in at Padmanabhapuram Fort, close to the town of Thuckalay in Kanyakumari District, Tamilnadu, in India. It is about 15km from Nagercoil, and about 53 kilometers from Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. The palace complex is inside an old granite fortress around four kilometers long. The palace is located at the foot of the Veli Hills, which form a part of the Western Ghats. The river Valli flows nearby. The palace is administered by the Government of Kerala archeology department.
The palace was constructed around 1601 CE by Iravi Varma Kulasekhara Perumal who ruled Travancore between 1592 CE and 1609 CE.It is believed that the Thai Kottaram was built in CE 1550. The maker of modern Travancore Anizham Thirunal Marthandavarma ( CE 1706 -1758 ) who ruled Travancore from CE1729 to 1758 rebuilt the palace in 1n around 1750. King Marthaanda Varma dedicated the kingdom to his family deity Sree Padmanabha , an incarnation of Lord Vishnu and ruled the kingdom as Padmanabha dasa or servant of Lord Padmanabha. Hence the name Padmanabhapuram or City of Lord Padmanabha. In the late 18th century,precisely in 1795 CE the capital of Travancore was shifted from here to Thiruvananthapuram, and the place lost its former glory. However, the palace complex continues to be one of the best examples of traditional Kerala architecture, and some portions of the sprawling complex are also the hallmark of traditional Kerala style architecture.
Route Distance
Thiruvananthapuram-

Padmanabhapuram Palace

Thuckalay, Tamil Nadu is 53KM

Interesting features

Mantrasala (Council chamber)
Thai Kottaram (Mother's palace)
Nataksala (Hall of performance)
Nataksala (Hall of performance)
Thekee kottaram (Southern palace)
The Padamnabhapuram Palace complex has several other interesting features:
The Palace though surrounded entirely by the State of Tamil Nadu is still part of Kerala and the land and Palace belongs to the Government of Kerala.
The clock tower in the palace complex has a 300 year old clock, which still keeps time.
A big hall now bare, which can accommodate around 1000 guests, and where ceremonial feasts were held, on auspicious occasions.
A secret passage, now blocked, through which the king, his immediate family members, and their entourage could escape to another palace, located several kilometers away in the event of any emergency. Name of this palace is Charottu kottaram.
A flight of steps leads to a bathing pond, which has lost its freshness due to neglect and years of disuse.
The Palace complex also has a section of curios and several interesting objects:
An entire room filled with old Chinese jars, all gifts by Chinese merchants.
A variety of weapons (which were actually used in warfare), including swords and daggers.
Brass lamps, wood and stone sculpture, a variety of furniture and large mirrors made of polished metal.
A gallery of paintings depicting incidents from the history of Travancore.
A wooden cot made of up to 64 wooden pieces of a variety of medicinal tree trunks
Polished stone cot, meant for cool effect
Toilet and well

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Thekkady

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 16 Jul 2011 19:40:00 +0000

Periyar is a protected area, and a nature reserve in the South Indian State of Kerala, set high in the mountains of the Western Ghats along the border with Tamil Nadu. It lies in the districts of Idukki and Pathanamthitta. The protected area covers an area of 925 km², out of which a 350 km² part of the core zone was made into the Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve, sometimes dubbed the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. The park is often called by the name thekkady also. Thekkady is located four km from Kumily, approximately 100 km east of Kottayam, 110 km west of Madurai and 120 km southeast from Kochi.
Tourists and Pilgrims
A boat cruise on Periyar Lake. Note the tree stumps protruding from the water, which are used for navigation to ascertain the waters depth.

The Periyar tiger reserve is considered as one of the best managed reserve in India. The core zone of the park is not accessible to the tourists. Within the buffer zone of 430 km², a zone of 55 km² is kept apart for tourism. Game wardens and staff have been recently spotted illegally fishing and gathering specimens within the sanctuary area. The facilities within the sanctuary are in need of much maintenance and are presently in very poor standards. This has also contributed a steady decline in returning tourists to the sanctuary.

Bamboo Rafting during guided tour through Periyar Wild Life Sanctury

In the buffer zone there is also the temple of Sabarimala, which is visited by about 4 million pilgrims annually.

Its important to recognize, however, that for the very purpose of protecting its wildlife and shielding them from human interference, Periyar National Park allows extremely limited access to the territory under its jurisdiction, restricting tourist entry only to the northern corner adjacent to man-made lake Periyar.

Matsyafed Fish Farm, Malippuram Eco-Tourism

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 11 Jan 2011 15:41:00 +0000

Extending to an area of 21 Ha, this farm that resorts to traditional filtration and scientific culture methods, is situated in the district of Ernakulam.Here also an Integrated Disease Management System (IDMS) has been implemented on experimental basis in collaboration with CUSAT.Matsyafed has established an ornamental Fish Research centre and Aquarium at Thenmala in Kollam District famous for Eco-Tourism.The aquarium is exhibiting high value Ornamental fishes suitable for export and domestic marketing

How to reach there

There are plenty of buses that ply between the High Court Junction and North Paravur through the Goshree Bridges. Buses to Kodungalloor and Munambam will also take you to Malippuram. Get down at Valappu bus stop and walk two kilometers to Matsyafed Milkyway. You can also persuade an auto-rickshaw driver to drop you there.

Contact details :
Manager,
Matsyafed Fish Farm,
Malippuram, Malipuram, Elankunnapuzha P.O
ERNAKULAM District
PIN -682 503
Direct : 0484 - 2493055.

Paddy fields and backwater photos Kuttanad ,Pulincunnu ,Kayal Puram,and Mankombu Alappuzha

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 11 Sep 2010 14:13:00 +0000

Here are the beautiful photos of Paddy fields and backwater from Kuttanad ,Pulincunnu ,Kayal Puram, Mankombu ,Ramankari ,vayalar and other eastern parts of Alappuzha, that captured by my frieds

Must see eye catching photos

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 03 Sep 2010 21:01:00 +0000

All photos originally uploaded by Gail S.

Pulincunnu (Pulinkunnu) Paddy fields and backwater photos Kuttanad

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 12 Aug 2010 18:05:00 +0000

Pulincunnu is an island village in Alappuzha district in the Indian state of Kerala,Pulincunnu is located in the Kuttanad taluk and region of Alappuzha District.
The scenic beauty of the wide river ride through the Pampa river is the reason why this route is one of the most favoured by houseboats tourism operators in Kerala. It is part of the Kerala Backwaters, a network of lakes, wetlands, and canals. The famous Rajiv Gandhi Trophy boat race is held here during the months of August -September every year.

Cochin University College of Engineering Kuttanad(CUCEK) under CUSAT, is a famous engineering college at this place.Fortunately i got a chance to be the part of that Campus .
Pulincunnu :From Alappuzha KSRTC bus stand you will get KSRTC bus to pulicunnu it will be charged 11 Rs

KSRTC Bus shuttle is also available From changanasheri (kottayam) .Pallikkottumma is the junction of AC road and Pulincunnu(Pulinkkunnu)

Paddy fields and back water photos of Kuttanad ,Alappuzha ,Kerala

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 12 Aug 2010 16:14:00 +0000

Kuttanadu(കുട്ടനാട്) is a region in the southern state Kerala, India, well known for its picturesque vast paddy fields and its geographical peculiarities. It's the region with the lowest altitude in India, and one of the few places in the world where farming is carried out below sea level. It’s also one of the historically important places in the ancient history of South India.

History

There is no recorded history on the origin of this land. But the oral history among local people, transferred from generation to generation is a blend of myths and legends. There is reference to Kuttanad in the epic Mahabharata of ancient India. During their exile, the five Pandava princes are said to have traveled through this land. In those days, Kuttanad was part of a dense forest, later destroyed by a forest fire which is also mentioned in the epic. Thus came the place name Chuttanad or the burnt place. In course of time Chuttanad became Kuttanad. One can still see kari or coal if we dig deep into the soil of Kuttanad, pointing to the fact that the place was once a forest, destroyed by wild fire. In Kuttanad most of the place names end in kari. Some familiar place names are Ramankary, Oorukkary, Mitrakkary, Kainakari, and Chennamkari.
During the reign of Chera dynasty that ruled over ancient Kerala, Kuttanad attained an important place in history. One of the powerful kings in the dynasty: Cheran Chenguttavan is said to have ruled his vast kingdom from Kuttanad, when it was also a famous centre of Buddhism. There is another version for its place name. The Buddhist centre Buddhanad later became Kuttanad.
Divisions

The Kuttanad region is broadly classified into three divisions:

    * Lower Kuttanad
    * Upper Kuttanad
    * North Kuttanad

Lower Kuttanad comprises taluks of Ambalapuzha taluk, Kuttanad (excluding Edathua, Thalavady and Muttar, and the northern half of Karthikapally taluk in Alappuzha district.

Upper Kuttanad comprises Veeyapuram village in Karthikapally taluk, Edathua, Thalavady, Kidangara and Muttar in Kuttanad taluk; Chennithala village in Mavelikkara Taluk, Mannar, Kuruttissery, Budhanur, Ennakkad villages in Chengannur taluk of Alappuzha district; and Parumala, Kadapra, Niranam, Pulikeezhu, Peringara, Chathenkeri, Nedumpuram, villages of Tiruvalla taluk in Pathanamthitta district.

North Kuttanad comprises Vaikom taluk, western parts of Kottayam taluk, and western parts of Changanacherry taluk in Kottayam district.
Villages
A few of the major villages which form Kuttanad are:Kainakary, Ramankary, Chennamkary, Nedumudi,Niramom, Kaipuzha, Kumarakom, Edathua, Mampuzhakkary, Neelamperoor, Kainady, Kavalam, Pulincunnoo, Kannady, Veliyanadu, Veeyapuram, Vezhapra, Kunnamkary,Kumaramkary,Valady, Kidangara, Mithrakary, Muttar, Neerattupuram, Thalavadi, Changankary, Champakulam, Nedumudi, Moonnatummukham, Melpadom, Payippad, Karichal, Ayaparambu, Anary, Vellamkulangara, Pilappuzha, Pandi, Cheruthana, Karuvatta, Chennithala, Narakathara, Venattukad, Kayalppuram, Mankompu, Chathurthiakary, Manalady, Koduppunna, Thayankarry and Pullangadi among others.

Paddy Cultivation
Paddy fields in Kuttanad

The major occupation in Kuttanadu is farming. Rice is the important agricultural product, giving Kuttanadu the moniker of "The Rice Bowl of Kerala". Three crops are grown every year now instead of the traditional two per year. Large farming areas near vembanad Lake were actually reclaimed from the lake. The king decreed that whoever reclaims land from water can own it leading to massive redemption of land from the lake. Many enterprising farmers took up the challenge.The first among such reclamation was lead by Pallithanam Lukka Mathai (alias Pallithanathu Mathaichen) who reclaimed the Cherukara Kayal and Pallithanam Moovayiram Kayal. Pallithanam Lukka Mathai who had served as member of Moolam Thirunal of Travancore's Praja Sabha (Popular Assembly) was considered as the pioneer of cooperative agricultural movement in Kuttanadu.Later on many joined him in the reclamation activity. Out of them Joseph Murikkummoottil (Murikken Outhachen) is considered to be the most outstanding. He did cultivation in a very large extent of reclaimed area and achieved such a success that he was crowned as "Krishi Rajan" (farmer king) by the then prime minister of India, Jawaharlal Nehru.

As the farming in the area increased farmers felt themselves constrained by the two cycles a year for rice cultivation. The reason for which is the limited availability of potable water in Kuttanadu. During the monsoon seasons, the water from the mountains flow through the rivers to the sea, bringing potable water to Kuttanadu. But during summer, due to the low level of the region, seawater enters Kuttanadu and makes the salt content of the water high making it unpotable.

Thanneermukkom Bund

During 1968, government of India proposed a project, in which a bund (Dam) will be made across the river so that seawater will not be allowed to come inside Kuttanad during summer, allowing farmers to cultivate an extra cycle per year. The project was planned in three phases, the south side, the north side and another phase to join the two sections. The project was delayed and by the time the first two phases were complete the entire money allotted for the project ran out and left the final phase in limbo. The farmers who were expecting lots of financial benefits after the completion of the project decided to take matters into their own hands and one night in 1972, a large group of farmers filled the gap between the north and the south side with earth. To this day, the earth embankment between the two sections of the bundh remains.

Even though the bund has improved the quality of life of the farmers, the bund is alleged to have caused severe environmental problems. The backwaters which were abundant with fish and part of the staple food of the people of the region require a small amount of salt water for their breeding. The bund has caused deterioration of the catch of fish in the region and the fishermen are opposed to the bund as of 2005. The bund has also disrupted the harmony of the sea with the backwaters and has caused problems not foreseen before the bundh like the omniprescence of the water weeds. Earlier the salt water tends to cleanse the backwaters but this does not happen any more leading to the pollution of the backwaters and the entire land nearby. Paddy Cultivation Paddy fields in Kuttanad

The major occupation in Kuttanadu is farming. Rice is the important agricultural product, giving Kuttanadu the moniker of "The Rice Bowl of Kerala". Three crops are grown every year now instead of the traditional two per year. Large farming areas near vembanad Lake were actually reclaimed from the lake. The king decreed that whoever reclaims land from water can own it leading to massive redemption of land from the lake. Many enterprising farmers took up the challenge.The first among such reclamation was lead by Pallithanam Lukka Mathai (alias Pallithanathu Mathaichen) who reclaimed the Cherukara Kayal and Pallithanam Moovayiram Kayal. Pallithanam Lukka Mathai who had served as member of Moolam Thirunal of Travancore's Praja Sabha (Popular Assembly) was considered as the pioneer of cooperative agricultural movement in Kuttanadu.Later on many joined him in the reclamation activity. Out of them Joseph Murikkummoottil (Murikken Outhachen) is considered to be the most outstanding. He did cultivation in a very large extent of reclaimed area and achieved such a success that he was crowned as "Krishi Rajan" (farmer king) by the then prime minister of India, Jawaharlal Nehru.

As the farming in the area increased farmers felt themselves constrained by the two cycles a year for rice cultivation. The reason for which is the limited availability of potable water in Kuttanadu. During the monsoon seasons, the water from the mountains flow through the rivers to the sea, bringing potable water to Kuttanadu. But during summer, due to the low level of the region, seawater enters Kuttanadu and makes the salt content of the water high making it unpotable.

Notable Natives and Residents

Dr. M. S. Swaminathan, Botanist, well known as the Godfather of the Green Revolution.
Dr. I C Chacko, Physisist and Geologist, State Geologist of Travancore State from 1906-1921
Dr. Thakazhi Sivasankara Pillai, Novelist, Jnanpith Scholar.
Fr. Kuriakose Elias Chavara,
Dr. K. Ayyappa Panikkar
Prof. Kavalam Narayana Panikkar
John Abraham, Film Director
Vinayan, Film Director
Nedumudi Venu, Film Actor
Ramesh Chennithala, Politician
Thomas Pallithanam, Scocial activist

Cultural Personalities

Kuttanad is known for its contributions to the field of Malayalam literature and cinema besides the classical dance-drama of Kathakali. Jnanpith-winning novelist, Thakazhi Sivasankara Pillai, hailed from Kuttanad, so is late Malayalam poet Dr K. Ayyappa Panikkar. Scholar-folklorist Kavalam Narayana Panikkar and his musician son Kavalam Sreekumar are natives of this place, so was late filmmaker John Abraham. Renowned film actor Nedumudi Venu too hails from this belt. Another famous film personality hailing from Kuttanad is filmmaker Vinayan.Lopa Kottarathil(Malayalam poet)- Ayaparampu.

Among the leading Kathakali exponents from Kuttanad today are Mankompu Sivasankara Pillai, Mathoor Govindankutty, Thalavadi Aravindan, FACT Padmanabhan and Kalamandalam Shanmughan. Its Kathakali masters of earlier days include Mathoor Kunhukunhu Pillai Panicker,Chennithala Kochu Pillai Panicker,Mankulam Vishnu Nambuthiri, Champakkulam Pachu Pillai,Guru Gopinath, Pallippuram Gopalan Nair, Harippadu Ramakrishna Pillai, Chennithala Chellappan Pillai, Ambalappuzha Sekharand Kalanilayam Mohanakumar. Dr.Aju K.Narayanan, Lecturer in Malayalam, U.C.College, Aluva published a research book on the Buddhist Cultural Heritage of Kuttanadu- Alappuzha.

References

http://www.kuttanad.info/about.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kuttanad

Malampuzha Dam, Garden,and sculptor Photos Palakkad

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 12 Aug 2010 14:39:00 +0000

Malampuzha is a mini hydoro-electric project built across Malampuzha river (a tributary of Bharathapuzha) in Palakkad district of Kerala, South India. It is also the biggest irrigation project in Kerala with a large network of canal systems. It is also one of Kerala's major tourist spots. Malampuzha dam, the biggest irrigation reservoir in Kerala, is celebrating its Golden Jubilee year in October, starting with Tourism Week and Onam celebrations in September.
Malampuzha Dam has brought prosperity to the district, making Palakkad the `rice bowl of Kerala'. Paddy is cultivated in 50,000 acres (200 km²) in two seasons each using waters from the Malampuzha dam.
The Malampuzha Garden and reservoir have a scenic setting with the forested hills of Western Ghats forming the backdrop, making it one of the foremost tourism centres in the State.
The dam across Malampuzha river has a total length of 2,069 metres. Of this, masonry dam has a length of 1,849 metres while the earthen dam covers the length of 220 metres. The catchment area of the dam is 147.63 km². Its storage capacity is 236.69 cubic metres. The full reservoir level of the dam is 115.06 m (375.15 ft)and Gross Storage at FRL is 226 mm3.
The idea of constructing a dam at Malampuzha was mooted in 1914 by the then Madras Government. Palakkad was part of Madras presidency then. In March 1949, the then Public Works Minister K. Bhaktavalsalam laid the foundation stone for the construction of the dam. On October 9, 1955, the then Chief Minister K. Kamaraj inaugurated it. Before the construction of the dam, the area was known as Punnppara, Chovankadu, Iduppady, Vadukampadam, Thanjikapallam, Karakkad, Thoopallam, Varani, Akkarakadu, Kadukkamkunnam, Aanakuzhykadu, Thampurattypotta, Aanamukkara, Pandipotta, Thekkumpadam and Koshavan Idukku. Now the entire area is known as Malampuzha. The dam was conceived as a multi-purpose project to provide water for irrigation, drinking, industries, power generation, fish farming and water transport.

Tourist attractions

Other attractions are the Malampuzha Gardens, Rope Way, Snake Park, Rock Garden and the aquarium. Within the Malampuzha Gardens is a large cement sculpture named Yakshi, created by the famous sculptor Kanayi Kunhiraman.
There is also an amusement park, Fantasy Park, 1.5 km away from Malampuzha dam, offering many attractive water games and rides.

Transport

Nearest railway station: Palakkad Junction - 5 km
Nearest airport: Coimbatore Airport - 55 km
Nearest international airport: Coimbatore International Airport

Garden XMMTXGDWTXQE

Kottayil Kovilakam tourism ( malavana) , Manavalan para

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 19 Jul 2010 15:39:00 +0000

Source :http://www.meriyatrra.com/photos/images/kottayil-kovilakam_1.jpg

Kottayil Kovilakom is a small village in the Paravur taluk, Ernakulam district of Kerala state, near Kochi, south India.It has a temple devoted to Krishna located on the top of a hill.

Kottayil Kovilakam - on the banks of the confluence of three rivers is a small hill on top of which there is a Krishna Temple,a Church,a Mosque and a Jewish Synagogue- depicting the cultural harmony of Kerala. All the above lie in 1 km circumference. Kottayil Kovilakam at Chennamangalam, which was the seat of Kshatriya chieftains of Villarvattom is situated near the ancient Kunnathali temple. Chennamangalam is an important center of handloom weaving and coir manufacturing. Reference :http://en.wikipedia.org/

The most attractive feature of Kottayil kovilakam is the rock in the middle of river which look like a scenery where an Elephant is taking its bath..The malavana river (part of Vembanad kayal ) where this rock is situated is a special one,because it isolates the great land Vypin.On the bang of the river there is a Siva temple .
If any opinion or want to share picture do a comment..

Narakkal(njarakkal) ecotourism a project by Matsyafed Fish Farm, Narakkal

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 18 Jul 2010 11:19:00 +0000

Narakkal (Njarakkal)is situated in Vypeen (Vypin)island of Ernakulam district with an area of 18.4 Ha.Production depends on the introduction of quality seed from other sources. An Integrated Disease Management System (IDMS) has been implemented on experimental basis in collaboration with CUSAT.An Aqua Tourism also attracted by tourists

Features :

Food {Karimeen ,Prawns(Chemmeen) and Mussel meat(kakka irachi )}
Boating
Fishing
They will cook and give the fish that you caught during fishing
ce creams
You can spend a full day (up to 6pm)
Narakkal arattuvazhi beach is just 2 minute away from this farm

Way to Narakkal ecoturismplace

By Bus:
From Ernakulam city, High-court junction take a bus to njarakkal hospital junction or Narakkal arattuvazhi kadal puram bus.It will be charged around 5.30 -7 INR
By Car:
From Ernakulam city, High-court junction take the way through GoShree bridge to Paravoor or Munambam root. stop when you reach njarakkal hospital junction then turn left to Narakkal arattuvazhi kadal puram bus root .Go straight untill you see FishFarm Left side of the Road
Near by railway station:Ernakulam north and Ernakulam Junction
Nearest tourist place :Cherai beach

Fish Farms

MALIPPURAM & NARAKKAL(Njarakkal), ERNAKULAM

Manager,

Matsyafed Fish Farm,

Malippuram, Malipuram, Elankunnapuzha P.O

ERNAKULAM District

PIN -682 503

Direct : 0484 - 2493055

Manager,

Matsyafed Fish Farm,

Njarakkal, Vyppin, ERNAKULAM

Direct : 0484 - 2493864

Athirappilly Water Falls Vazhachal

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 24 May 2010 10:37:00 +0000

Location: Athirappalli 63 km from Thrissur and Vazhachal 68 km from Thrissur.
Athirappalli and Vazhachal, the two scenic and popular waterfalls on the edge of the Sholayar forest ranges are just 5 km apart. The Athirappalli Falls joins the Chalakkudy river after plummeting down a drop of 80 feet. Vazhachal is part of the Chalakkudy river. Both the waterfalls, their cool, misty waters cascading down in the backdrop of thick green forest and rocky terrain, are a scintillating experience to visitors.

Getting there: A good motorable road takes you to Vazhachal and Athirappalli from either Kochi or Thrissur town.

Nearest railway station: Chalakudy, about 30 km away.
Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, about 58 km from Thrissur.

Kumbalangi Integrated Tourism Village

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 24 May 2010 08:37:00 +0000

Kumbalangy is an island-village on the out skirts of Cochin city of Kerala State in South India . As Kumbaangi is close to the heart of Cochin city reaching there would pose no problems whatso ever. Innumerabl number of buses both private and KSRTC ply towards Kumbalangi. By road it is 45 Km.from the Kochi International Airport , 15 Km. from Ernakulam Railway Station, and 16Km.from Ernakulam KSRTC Bus Stand (Govt.bus stand).

Kumbalangy is surrounded by backwaters. A ring of Chinese fishing nets literally encircle the island –village bearing witness to therich aquatic life. An array of mangroves separate land from water providing a breeding ground for prawns, crabs, oysters and small fishes. The village which is 16 Sq.Km .in area is home to fishermen, farmers, labourers, toddy tappers and coir spinners all alike. "The Kumbalangi project was set in motion in 2003 to help the local people, the economy and the locality through tourism," says M C Sivadathan, President of the Kumbalangi panchayat (village council). "And in order to achieve this, we have done away with many concepts typical of tourism elsewhere. Our idea is to create job opportunities for the villagers, while also ensuring that tourists have a good time seeing and experiencing real village life,'' he explains. The panchayat - with financial assistance from the state government - is implementing the project. Nearly 30,000 people live in this seven square km village. The main occupation in Kumbalangi is fishing, and there are over 100 Chinese nets in the backwaters that face the village. The region - once rich in fish and mangroves - was losing its ecological capital. Currently, there are about 10 houses that offer rooms to visitors. This facility is generally within a residence, where two or more rooms with attached baths are set aside for guests. The per day charge is about Rs 900, inclusive of breakfast. Lunch and dinner are also provided at an extra charge. The tourists sit with the host family and eat the same food they eat. They can walk through the village, watch fisher folk at work, fish themselves, go canoeing and visit the farms, among other things. They can also contact the panchayat if they require assistance. Many people also wondered whether Kerala food would be palatable to foreign taste buds. The result, though, has been extremely satisfactory. "Other than making the food less spicy, we do not deviate from traditional cuisine," says Lilly Lawrence, who supervises cooking in the Retreat. "There is a huge demand for fish and seafood, such as prawn and shrimp. Everything is available locally," she says. Lawrence recalls, "Initially, we were worried about whether guests would like the village and its rustic ambience. But we realized that this is a novel experience for them. We have had tourists who stayed with us for weeks, reading books, fishing or simply watching the backwaters." Tourists also find that there is no huge communication gap, because at least one member in a family, if not all, can converse in English. Another occupation that's seen quite a revival is that of boatmen. The village is well connected by road to the mainland, and the local community did not patronize them very much. However, tourists are keen on cruises. Fisher folk and boatmen also demonstrate various fishing techniques for the tourists. Under the Kumbalangi project, Kalagraamam, an artists' village, is also being set up. The initial plans were to erect a cottage in the middle of the backwaters. Later, the panchayat members, tourism secretary and the tourism minister were all agreed that this would disturb the backwaters ecology. Kalagraamam, therefore, will now stand on four acres of land inside Kumbalangi. It will showcase the traditional fishing equipment and handicrafts of the region. Another goal the project has is to bring the village back to its ecologically glorious days - about 25 years ago. Towards this, pokkali farming, a crop pattern that alternates between rice and fish (each for six months a year), is being brought back in full form. Also, mangroves that were once in abundance in the region are being planted once again. So far, about 50,000 mangrove saplings have been planted in the area. "We used to have plenty of fish here because of the mangroves. The planting of mangroves will lead to a better environment for the fish to live in. (Mangroves grow in marshy areas, where fish also find comfort.)," says Sivadathan. The Kumbalangi panchayat is well aware that being a tourist destination also brings with it greater responsibilities. "Tourists will not come unless there are proper roads and lights. So, the roads and canals have been strengthened, CFC lamps have been installed, and 600 biogas plants have been set up for waste management. Kumbalangi is also the first panchayat in the state to set up such a waste management system. A park has also been constructed for visitors to relax in. The most remarkable thing about this project is that what we do for the tourists also directly benefits the local population," Sivadathan says.

List of Tourist attractions in Kochi

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 23 May 2010 18:08:00 +0000

Kochi, India
formerly known as Cochin, is a city in the Indian state of Kerala. Kochi or Cochin is popularly known as the Queen of Arabian Sea, also flaunts one of the finest natural harbours of the world. and was the centre of the world spice trade for many centuries. Old Kochi loosely refers to a group of islands which comprise Willingdon Island, Fort Kochi, Mattancherry, etc. Today Kochi includes Ernakulam city, old parts of Kochi, Kumbalangi, and outlying islands. It is one of the principal tourist destinations of Kerala. The city derives its name from the Malayalam word Kochazhi meaning small lagoon.

Backwaters of Kochi

are a chain of brackish lagoons and lakes lying parallel to the Arabian Sea coast (known as the Malabar Coast) of Kerala state in southern India. In Cochin, the stretch from Kochi Azhi to Munambam Azhi, the serene backwaters are popularly known as Veeranpuzha. It is the northern extension of Vembanad Lake. Vembanad Lake (Vembanad Kayal or Vembanad Kol) is India's longest lake, and is the largest lake in Kerala. It is also one of the largest lakes in India.

Marine Drive
is a picturesque promenade in Kochi. It is built facing the backwaters, and is a popular hangout for the local populace. Marine Drive is also an economically thriving part of the city of Kochi. With several shopping malls it is as an important centre of shopping activity in Kochi. The walkway has two contemporarily constructed bridges, the Rainbow bridge and the Chinese Fishing Net Bridge.The view of the setting and rising sun over the sea mouth, and the gentle breeze from the Vembanad Lake has made Marine Drive an important tourist destination in Kochi. Hundreds of people (both natives, and tourists) throng the walkway during the evenings.

Fort Kochi :

situated on the Fort Kochi/Mattancherry peninsula, is the historical part of the city and home to many tourist attractions, such as the cantilevered Chinese fishing nets, the Mattancherry Palace and the Santa Cruz Basilica.

Hill Palace :

is the largest archaeological museum in Kerala, near Tripunithura. It was the administrative office of Kochi Rajas. Built in 1865, the Palace complex consists of 49 buildings in the traditional architectural style, spreading across in 54 acres. The complex has an archaeological Museum, a Heritage Museum, a Deer Park, a Pre-historic Park and a Children’s park.

Mattancherry Palace,

also known as the Dutch Palace, in Mattancherry, Kochi, features Kerala murals depicting Hindu temple art, portraits and exhibits of the Rajas of Kochi.Mattancherry Palace with its medieval charm is situated at Palace Road, Mattancherry, Kochi. It was built by the Portuguese and presented to Veera Kerala Varma (1537-65), Raja of Kochi, in 1555 AD.The palace is a quadrangular structure built in Nālukettu style, the traditional Kerala style of architecture, with a courtyard in the middle. In the courtyard there stands a small temple dedicated to 'Pazhayannur Bhagavati', the protective goddess of the Kochi royal family. There are two more temples on either side of the Palace, one dedicated to Lord Krishna and the other to Lord Siva. Certain elements of architecture, as for example the nature of its arches and the proportion of its chambers are indicative of European influence in basic Naluketttu style.

Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium
(locally known as Kaloor International Stadium) is an international stadium in Kochi, Kerala, India. With a capacity to hold 60,000 spectators, the stadium was built in 1996 .Originally constructed as a football stadium, it has played host to a number of international cricket and football matches. The extensive grounds of the stadium serve as venue for important exhibitions, cinema events and political rallies in the city. The stadium is quipped with floodlights for night play. The architecture of the stadium is unique compared to other stadia in India.

Jewish Synagogue :
or the Paradesi Synagogue is the oldest synagogue in the Commonwealth of Nations, located in Kochi in South India. It was built in 1568 by the Malabar Yehudan people or Cochin Jewish community in the Kingdom of Cochin. It is also referred to as the Cochin Jewish Synagogue or the Mattancherry Synagogue. The synagogue is located in the quarter of Old Cochin known as Jew Town,^[8] and is the only one of the seven synagogues in the area still in use. The complex has four buildings. It was built adjacent to the Mattancherry Palacetemple on the land gifted to the Malabari Yehuden community by the Raja of Kochi, RamaVarma. The Mattancherry Palace temple and the Mattancherry synagogue share a common wall.

Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica

by the : a church built originally by the Portuguese and elevated to a Cathedral by Pope Paul IV in 1558, was spared by the Dutch conquerors who destroyed many Catholic buildings. Later the British demolished the structure and Bishop Dom Gomez Vereira commissioned a new building in 1887. Consecrated in 1905, Santa Cruz was proclaimed a BasilicaPope John Paul II in 1984. This magnificent church is a must see destination for tourists who come to Kochi.

Bolgatty Palace :

Built by the Dutch in India, it is located in the scenic island popularly known as Bolgatty island in Kochi. One of the oldest existing Dutch palaces outside Holland, this quaint mansion, built in 1744, by Dutch traders, was later extended and lush green gardens were landscaped around it. The building was then the Governor's palace for the Dutch and later in 1909 was leased to the British. It served as the home of the British Governors, the seat of the British Resident of Cochin during the British regime. In 1947, when India gained independence, the palace became the property of the state and later converted into a heritage hotel resort.

Willingdon Island : A manmade island named after Lord Willingdon a former British Viceroy to india. Southern Naval Command, Cochin Harbour, Port Trust head quarters , Best hotels in the city,, major trading centers etc. are situated at Willingdon Island.

Museum of Kerala History: Important scenes of Kerala history are portrayed through sculptures. Greeting the visitor outside the museum is a statue of Parasurama, the mythological safe who is said to have created Kerala.

St.Francis Church: originally built in 1503, is the oldest European church in India and has great historical significance as a mute witness to the European colonial struggle in the subcontinent.

Pallipuram Fort
It was built by the Portuguese in 1503. It is the oldest existing European fort in India. In 1789 the Dutch captured the fort in 1661 and sold it to the State of Travancore. This fort is situated in the northern extremity of the Vypeen island.

Around Kochi

Athirappilly Falls :

is around 60 km from Kochi. The Chalakudy River, 145 kilometres (90 mi) long, originates in the Anamudi mountains (Western Ghats) and flows through the Vazhachal Forest toward the Arabian Sea. Forest wildlife includes the Asiatic elephant, tiger, leopard, bison, sambar, and lion-tailed macaque. Plantations in the area contain teak, bamboo, and eucalyptus. The river initially runs smoothly but becomes more turbulent as it nears Athirappilly. At Athirappilly Falls, the water surges around big rocks and cascades down in three separate plumes. Below the falls, the river remains turbulent for about 1 kilometre (0.6 mi) until it reaches Kannamkuzhi. Then it calms and flows smoothly until reaching the dam at Imburmuzhi.

Cherai Beach :
is a beach is just 30 km from Kochi. The 15 km of long golden beach is very clean, shallow, and attracts swimming and sunbathing. Cherai village is a part of Vypin Island.

Kalady : is a popular pilgrim center because it is the birthplace of Sri Adi Sankara, one of India's foremost philosopher-saints who preached the Advaita or monastic philosophy.

Bhoothathankettu :
is a dam and tourist site. It is situated in the village of Pindimana, about 50 km away from the Kochi. Bhoothathankettu is connected to the Salim Ali/Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, where visitors can see different varieties of birds and animals. The Idamalayam reservoir is about 12 km distance from the site.

Chottanikkara Temple : is a famous temple of the Hindu mother goddess Bhagawati. Bhagawati is one of the most popular deities in the area, and she is worshipped at the temple, along with Lord Vishnu, in three different forms: as Saraswati in the morning, draped in white; as Bhadrakali at noon, draped in crimson; and as Durga in the evening, decked in blue. 'Chottanikara Magam' is the famous religious festival in the temple.

Paliam Palace,Chendamangalam : It is about 42 km from Kochi. The Paliam Palace, residence of the Paliath Achans, hereditary Prime Ministers to the former Maharajas of Kochi, is one of the architectural splendours of Kerala. The Palace is over 450 years old and houses a collection of historic documents and relics.

Malayattoor of Kerala. The Malayatoor Church of Cochin attracts a large number of devotees from not just Kerala, but also all over India.St. Thomas is believed to have landed in Kerala at : is one of the most prominent Christian pilgrim centers in the Ernakulam districtKodungallur (Cranganore) in AD 52. Oral tradition says that while travelling through Malayattor, faced with hostile natives, he fled to the hilltop where he is said to have remained in prayer and that he left his foot prints on one of the rocks. According to beliefs, during prayer, he touched a rock, upon which blood poured from it.

ACCESSIBILITY

Telephone access code: +91-484

Air: International Airport at Nedumbassery (32 km from the city)
Airline offices: Air India, MG Road Ph: 2380700, 2351295
Indian Airlines, DH Road Ph: 2371141
Jet Airways, Atlantis, MG Road Ph: 2359334
Oman Air (RL Travels), Atlantis, MG Road Ph: 2357093
Cathay Pacific (Spencer & Co. Ltd.), MG Road Ph: 2362064
Saudi Arabian Airlines (Arafat Travels), MG Road Ph: 2352689
Singapore Airlines (Aviation Travels), MG Road Ph: 2358131
Kuwait Airways, MG Road Ph: 2382576
SriLankan Airlines Ph: 2361263
Emirates Ph: 4084444
Qatar Airways (Call Centre: 0124-4566000)
Jetlite Ph: 2611340
Air Deccan Ph: 2610289
Paramount Ph: 2610404

Rail: Ernakulam is well connected to all major cities in India
Ernakulam Junction Ph: 131
Ernakulam Town Ph: 2395198
Aluva Ph: 2624141

Road: The KSRTC Central Bus Station is near the Junction Railway Station Ph: 2372033
Private buses operate from High Court Jn., Railway Station and Kaloor Jn. • Tamil Nadu Road Transport Bus Station Ph: 2372616. Inter-state private bus services to Bangalore, Coimbatore, Mangalore, Chennai and Madurai: • Indira Travels, near Jos Jn. Ph: 2360693 • Yesbee Travels, near Jos Jn. Ph: 2375080 • Princy Tours, Opp. Sealord Hotel Ph: 2354712 • Sharma Transports, Grand Hotel Ph: 2350712 • Ashirwad Travels, Jos Junction Ph: 2367709

Ferry services: There are two ferry stations in Ernakulam. The main Boat Jetty is 1 km from the Junction Railway Station and the other is near the High Court.
Ferry timings (From the main boat jetty):
Vypeen : Frequent services (1/2 hr journey)
Mattancherry : Daily 6 ferries (1/2 hr journey)
Fort Kochi : Daily 30 services (20 min. journey). First trip at 0600 hrs and the last at 2110 hrs
Willingdon Island : Frequent services (15 min. journey)

Tourist information offices: Tourist Information Officer, Dept. of Tourism Ph: 2360502 • Govt. of India Tourist Office, Willingdon Island Ph: 2668352/1913 • Airport Information Counter, Dept. of Tourism Kerala Ph: 2611308 • Tourist Reception Centre - KTDC, Shanmughom Rd. Ph: 2353234 Fax: 2382199 • DTPC Tourist Information Centre, Old Collectorate Bldg., Park Avenue Ph: 2367334 www.dtpcernakulam.com

Cherai Beach (Vypin island) -15 km of long golden beach is clean, shallow, and attracts swimming and sunbathing

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 23 May 2010 16:01:00 +0000

Cherai Beach is located in Vypin island, Kochi, India. Cherai Beach is just 25 km from Kochi, the business capital of Kerala and 30 km from Cochin International Airport. The nearest towns are North Paravur (6 km) and Kodungallur (10 km) and the nearest railway station is Aluva (20 km).

The 15 km of long golden beach is clean, shallow, and attracts swimming and sunbathing. It is one of the few places where one can experience the lagoon (poyil) and ocean separated only by a few hundred meters. Dolphins are occasionally seen here. It has the calm serene Backwaters on the other side and the land is filled with coconut trees.One of the main events in Cherai Beach is the tourism fest during December.

Best season to visit is all throughout the year barring the rainy season (June - October). Tourists can find beach resorts and cottages close to the beach.

Padmanabha Swamy Temple

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 30 Apr 2010 07:49:00 +0000

Renovated in 1733 AD by the then ruler of Travancore, Raja Marthanda Varma, this holy shrine attracts thousands of Hindu devotees. Located inside the east fort, this fascinating temple is the most important landmark of Thiruvananthapuram.

The temple portrays both Kerala and the Dravidian styles of architecture. It is a grand seven storeyed structure adorned by innumerable stone carvings, ancient inscriptions and colourful murals. There are around 324 pillars in the temple corridor.The main Deity in this temple is Lord Padmanabha, who reclines on Anantha, the thousand-headed serpent. The Idol is about 5.5 mtrs (18 feet) long and is one of the largest Vishnu deities in India. The Deity reclines in a large, dimly lit room. You can see the Lord through three large doors, one revealing his feet, another his midsection (with Brahma on the lotus) and the third his chest and head.
The deity is taken on a procession everyday at 4 p.m. around the temple. There are several other deities in the temple including Sita, Rama, Hanuman, Krishna and Narasimha. There is a huge temple tank called Padma Teertham outside the temple.
Only Hindus are allowed to enter the temple and they too have to strictly follow the dress code, which is dhoti for the men and a saree for the women. The temple remains open from 4:15 am - 5:15 am, 6:45 am - 730 am, 8:30 am - 10:30 am, 11:30 am - 11:45 am, 5:15 pm - 7:30 pm.

Sree Chithira Art Gallery(Sree-Chitra-Art-Gallery)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 30 Apr 2010 07:27:00 +0000

Next to the museum, this is in a smaller, traditional building. It houses the collections of the Travancore ruling family, and included an interesting assortment of turn-of-the-century Bengali school paintings, Rajasthani and Mughal miniatures. Tanjore paintings, and a selection of works by a Russian emigrant, Svetosku Roerich and by Kerala's favorite artist son, Raja Ravi Varma. The latter's works include a number of portraits of maharajahs and their families, British residents and distinguished individuals, and by studying their faces one gets a glimpse of a part of Kerala's history.

This place is open for visitors from 10:00 am - 5:00 pm and remains closed on Mondays & Wednesday forenoons.

Veli Tourist Village Thiruvananthapuram -a delightful waterfront park

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 27 Apr 2010 09:03:00 +0000

Located 8 km from Thiruvananthapuram city, the Veli Tourist Village is bordered by the Veli lagoon and the Arabian sea. The lagoon here is separated from the sea by a narrow sand bar.

The Veli Tourist Village on the outskirts of Trivandrum is a delightful waterfront park which has become extremely popular with Keralites. It is a nice place for tourists with young children to spend an afternoon. There are lots for the kids to do, and they will meet many of their young Keralite counterparts, all of whom will be eager to make new friends and try out their English.

The main attraction at Veli is water - a large inland lake, separated from the ocean by only a narrow sandbar. For a few rupees, rides can be had in motor-driven safari launches and power boats, or a family can drift about in a pedal-boat or a row boat. There are kayaks, and even hovercraft, for the more intrepid. While skimming over the lake, visitors will see the local fishermen readying their boats, working on their nets, or poling sand-laden barges.

There is a floating bridge and a floating restaurant too. Open every day; boat rides available until 6.00p.m., after which the lake reverts to the sole use of fishermen. For very small children, there is a tiny lake within the park, with sturdy, round "tub boats", equipped with miniature paddles. A small cafeteria serves ice-cream, cold-drinks and snacks, and the grounds are dotted with interesting climbing sculptures designed by the well-known sculptor Kanai Kunjiraman

Neyyar Dam & Lion Safari Park

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 27 Apr 2010 04:40:00 +0000

Neyyar dam is situated 90-18000 metre above sea-level. It is an extension of Kallikad Tiger Reserve and Mudanthura Wild life Sanctuary of Tamilnadu.
Neyyar dam, lying against the southern low hills of the western ghats, 32 kms away from the Thiruvananthapuram city is a popular picnic spot with a lake and a picturesque dam site. Neyyar dam affords a panoramic view of the the mountains and the lake. The lion safari is a star attraction.

The reservoir also offers boating facilities in addition to a crocodile farm. The project offers facilities for boating and mountaineering. A miniature wild life sanctuary, a lake garden and a swimming pool are the major attractions.

Neyyar Wild Life Sanctuary

The Neyyar sanctuary is spread over the Southeast corner of the Western Ghats, and covers a total area of 128 sq kms. The Neyyar reservoir is easily navigable and extends 9.06 sq. km.

Declared as a sanctuary in 1958, it is the drainage basin for the Neyyar River and its tributaries - Mullayar and Kallar. Elephants, Gaur, Sloth Bear, Nilgiri Tahr, Jungle Cat, Wild Boar, Nilgiri Langur can be seen here. This sanctuary has a substantial natural vegetation cover. The diversity of its flora makes this sanctuary an ideal gene pool preserve.

Ponmudi {Tourist Places in Trivandrum(Thiruvananthapuram)}

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 27 Apr 2010 04:23:00 +0000

The salubrious hill station of Ponmudi is at a distance of 61 km from Thiruvananthapuram.

Ponmudi is located 1800 metres above sea level.An idyllic hill resort with narrow, winding pathways and cool, green, wooded environs, Ponmudi is located 915 meters above sea level. Along with a variety of beautiful mountain flowers, exotic butterflies, small rivulets, springs and the deer park nearby, this hill station also has excellent trekking trails.

One will find oneself compulsively pausing every now and then to drink in deep the spectacular sweep of the hill ranges, tea-estates and the mist-covered valleys, peppered with little toy-like stone cottages painted a pretty violet, pink, or white with pointed and peaked roofs.