Kerala Travel Guide
1. ABOUT TRIVANDRUM
: The city gets its name fromthe word, Thiruvanathapuram, meaning the
city of Anantha or the abode of the sacred SerpentAnantha on which Lord Vishnu,
the preserver of the Hindu trinity, reclines. Trivandrum, the capital of the
state of Kerala is a beautiful seaside city built on seven hills. The famous
Sri. Padmanabha Swami Temple is dedicated to Vishnu and is a landmark in the
city.
The sprawling city has an international airport. Most visitors to Kerala
use it only as an arrival point, speeding on immediately to Kovalam.
Trivandrum has good shopping areas and a variety of comfortable and reasonably
priced hotels.
Thiruvanantpuram covers a large area, but most of the services and places
of interest are on or very close to Mahatma Gandhi Road - the main road running
through the centre are all close to each other, as are many of the budget
hotels.
The museum, zoo and airline offices are all in the north of the city and
you’ll need an auto-rickshaw to reach them.The municipal bus stand is
10 minutes walk from the railway station, opposite Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple.
FESTIVALS :
Onam is a 4-day national harvest festival in Kerala, which falls during August-
September, when Snake Boat races are held mostly in connection with temple festivals
of Kottayam - Arunmulla - Alleppey area ;and Vishu is the new year day which
comes in March-April. Pooja Eduppu in October is connected with Vinayak Pooja.
BEST SEASON :
The climate of Thiruvananthapuram is very moderate, not very hot nor very cold.
The influence of sea and proximity to the equator affects the climate to a great
extent. The warm weather and early monsoon leaves you with no option but to
wear light cotton cloths. Best time to visit this place is between October &
March.
2. ABOUT KOVALAM : A former fishing village,
Kovalam is just 16 kms away from Trivandrum, Kerala's capital city. This enchanting
strip of golden sands is laced with the rich greenery of coconut palms.
Kovalam is an evergreen and pleasant climatic beach resort. It is a dreamy
place for tourists all over the world. Today Kovalam beach is known as the
"Paradise of the South". With high rock promontory and a calm bay
of blue waters, this beach paradise creates a unique aquarelle on moonlit
nights. Kovalam was brought to the public eye by the Maharaja of Travancore.
Over the past three decades, the place has been well developed, and now figures
prominently on the world tourism map. Its scenic beauty and serenity is supplemented
by the availability of excellent accommodation . There are a lot of restaurants
which provide western style food as well as Indian, which is delicious. The
grilled seafood items such as lobster, king prawns and kalamari which are
got fresh from the sea at Kovalam.
Ayurvedic massage parlours, yoga centers and water sport facilities, makes
Kovalam a popular haven for tourists from all over the globe. It is warm and
clean by the coconut trees and the white sand bed as the seabreeze gently
plays with the waves. Swimming and bathing are very refreshing and exhilarating
in the waves. One can walk into the sea about 100 metres without loosing ground.
This cove is also the safest place for swimming. Most of the visitors like
to have a sunbath and get a good suntan on beach.
At many coastal places there are beautiful patches of coral reefs. The underwater
views, which are visible during snorkeling, are really marvelous. The Kashmiri,
Kerala Batik items, Kannada handicrafts are very attractive to the tourists.
Tourists can avail all information and check e-mail free of cost at Tourist
Information and Communication centre on beach.
Many people from different countries and cultures, intermingling their languages
get together in this paradise of the South and spend their leisure time joyfully.
It makes moments heavenly.
Kovalam beach : On the Malabar coast along the Kerala shore line is a
small village, called Kovalam. This sleepy town suddenly came on the tourist
map when its fabulous beaches were discovered. Today Kovalam has become one
of the most popular beach hangouts in India. Kovalam means a grove of coconut
trees and truly the coconut trees along the beaches gives it a ravishing look.
The palm-fringed bays in secluded coconut groves, promises a relaxed stay.
The boundless blue waters of the Arabian Sea and miles of white sands washed
away by the surf at the feet of the stalwart palms and the rocky promontories,
makes this beach paradise.
This marvelous beach is a tourist's dream come true. A sheltered natural
bay with cool soothing palms and gentle waves. Where when you are tired of
aquatics, swimming or sunbathing, you can explore the handicrafts, jewellery
and cloth shops spread along the waterfront.
The crescent-shaped beaches of Kovalam can be divided in three parts. The
southern most beach, and the most popular, is the Lighthouse Beach. Further
south on the beach one can have a spectacular view of the Vizhinzam mosque.
Photography is prohibited here.
Temples :
Padmanabhaswamy Temple
East Fort Ganapathy Temple
Pazhavangadi Bhagavathy Temple
Attukal Hanuman Temple
Vikas Bhavan Sree Parasurama Temple, Thiruvallam Janardhan Swamy Temple
Varkala Aruvipuram siva Temple
Neyyattinkara Sree Kanteswaram Temple
Churches :
St.Joseph Church, Palayam
Christ Church, Paslayam LMS Church
Palayam Lourdes Church, Near PMG
Jn. Pentacostal Church
Mosques :
Charachira Jama Masjid, Palayam
Jama Masjid, Beemapally Mosque
Thampanoor Hidayuthul Islam Madrasa
Moyuddin Mosque, Vizhinjam
3. ABOUT THEKKADY (PERIYAR)
: Thekkady, is one of India's most fascinating natural wildlife sanctuaries,
where you can watch wildlife at close range. The vegetation, the flora and fauna
and the birds of Thekkady are uniquely rich, vast and varied that it does not
bear semblance to any other wildlife sanctuaries in the world. Even a casual
visitor to this place will not fail to observe the special ecological pattern
of Thekkady.
Thekkady - The very sound of the name conjures up images of elephants,
unending chains of hill and spice scented plantations. In the crisp, cool air
of the Western Ghats you will experience the most enchanting holiday. With the
animals of the wild and the simple mountain people. In the Periyar forest of
Thekkady is one of the finest wildlife reserves in India, and spread across
the entire district are picturesque plantations and hill towns that hold great
opportunities for treks and mountain walks. The Thekkady sanctuary is one of
the best in the country for watching and photographing wild life. Thekkady is
on the border with state of Tamil Nadu , in fact just 5 kilometers from the
border town of Kumily which is very well connected by bus to both Kerala and
Tamil Nadu. Notable among the denizens of Periyar are the tigers, the majestic
Asiatic wild elephants and the distinctive Nilgiri langur. Other animals include
the wild boar, wild dog, bison, bear and leopards. Amongst the avifauna, the
most profuse are herons, egrets, darters, kingfishers and the great Malabar
grey hornbill. A cruise through the waters of Periyar lake around which the
wild -life sanctuary is situated, offers a soul - stirring pleasant experience.
IN AND AROUND THEKKADY
The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (Entry : 0600 to 1800 hrs) :Lying close
to the plantations, in the rich jungles of Periyar in Thekkady is one of the
world's most fascinating natural wildlife reserves - the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.
Spread across 777 sq. km, of which 360 sq. km is thick evergreen forest, the
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary was declared a Tiger Reserve in 1978. Noted for its
geo-morphological diversity of wildlife and scenic beauty, the Reserve attracts
visitors from all over the world. The splendid artificial lake formed by the
Mullaperiyar Dam across the Periyar river adds to the charm of the park. This
is the only sanctuary in India where you can have the unique experience of viewing
wildlife at close quarters from the safety of a boat on the lake. The greatest
attraction of Periyar remains the large herds of wild elephants that come down
to the lake's edge.
The sanctuary watch towers : There are three watch towers for observing
wild life - at Edappalayam and Manakkavala and Thannikudi. Reservations can
be made at the Forest information Counter, Thekkady. Tel. : +91-486-322028.
Kumily (4 km from Thekkady) :This plantation town, closely associated
with Thekkady, is situated on the outskirts of the Periyar Sanctuary. It is
an important shopping centre and spice trade centre, the main bus station and
most of the medium range accommodation in the Periyar region is in Kumily.
Murikkady (5 km from Thekkady) : Washed in fresh spice scented air, Murikkady
is a panorama of cardamom, coffee and pepper plantations.
Pandikuzhi ( 5 km from Kumily) : This picturesque place is cradled between
Chellarkovil and the Tamil Nadu State border is a popular picnic spot. Pandikuzhi
offers great opportunities for trekking and is a photographer's delight.
Mangala Devi Temple ( 15 km from Thekkady) : This ancient temple is hidden
in the dense woods at the top of a peak 1337 M above sea level. The temple is
built in the traditional Kerala style of architecture. Visitors are allowed
here only on the Chithra Pournami festival day. The peak commands a panoramic
view of the other side of the ghats and the vast plains of Tamil Nadu. Permission
to visit the area can be obtained from the Wildlife Warden at Thekkady. Tel.
: 91-486-322027.
Chellarkovil ( 15 km from Kumily) : This sleepy little village with its
spectacular view of the plains (and cascading waterfalls during the monsoons)
is a feast for your eyes. The village slopes down to the famous coconut groves
of Kumbam in neighbouring Tamil Nadu.
Vandiperiyar ( 18 km from Thekkady) : The river Periyar flowing through
the centre of this town nourishes its vast tea, coffee and pepper plantations.
A major trade centre, Vandiperiyar is also home to a number of tea factories.
The Government Agriculture Farm and Flower Gardens have a delightful array of
rose plants, orchids and anthurium.
Vandanmedu ( 25 km from Kumily) : This is one of the world's largest
auction centres for Cardamom. A walk through the sprawling cardamom plantations
of Vandanmedu is a pleasant experience.
Pullumedu ( 43 km from Thekkady, 26 km from Periyar) : The winding journey
to this hill town, along the Periyar river, offers a stunning view of the rolling
hills draped in lush greenery. Velvet lawns, rare flora and fauna add to the
beauty of Pullumedu which can be accessed from a jeep. The famous Sree Ayyappa
temple at Sabarimala and the Makara Joythi illuminations at the shrine are visible
from here. Since it is part of the restricted forest zone, special permission
to visit Pullumedu has to be obtained from the Wildlife Preservation Officer,
Thekkady Tel.+ 91-486-322027 or The Range Officer, Vallakkadavu Tel. :+ 91-486-352515.
HOW TO REACH
Nearest Airports
Madurai 140 km
Kochi (Cochin) 190 km
Thiruvananthapuram 265 km
Kozhikode 315 km
Chennai 570 km
Nearest Railheads
Teni 60 km
Kottayam 114 km
Changanassery 114 km
Madurai 140 km
By Road
There are frequent buses from Kumily (4 km away) to various tourist centres.
The drive to Thekkady is enchanting as the road winds through tranquill countryside,
rich plantations & thick jungles. The sanctuary, 60 km from Idukki, 190
km from Cochin and 114 kms away from Kottayam is open throughout the year
, but the best season for a visit is from September to March. The sanctuary
is centered around the large (24 sq km) artificial lake formed by a dam across
the Periyar river. The main attraction is a boat trip over this man-made lake
of Thekkady. The forest department arranges elephant rides and trekking inside
the sanctuary.
4. ABOUT KUMARAKOM : The enchanting backwater destination of Kumarakom
is a small village that is a cluster of little islands on the Vembanad Lake
in Kerela.
Kumarkom strengthens Kerala’s reputation for being God’s own country
with its unbelievably beautiful mangrove forests, coconut groves and emerald
green paddy fields interspersed with enchanting waterways and canals adorned
with while lillies. It is part of the Kuttanad region, and the bird sanctuary
here spread across 14 acres of any ornithologist's paradise.
This enchanting backwater destination offers visitors many leisure options.
From wandering into the depths of its wildlife sanctuary to cruising down the
back waters and fishing, Kumarkom is perfect for a lazy and laid back holiday.
The best way to watch the birds of the Kumarakom sanctuary is a boat trip
round the islands, as hundreds of swaying verdant coconut palms lining the
rivers lean to brush the tops of your heads. Kumarkom is an example of nature
at her bountiful best in the fragrant flowers, the riot of multi coloured
birds, the surrounding greenry and the clear waters.
KUMARAKOM TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
The Vembanad Lake : The Vembanad Lake is one of the largest fresh water
lakes in Asia. It flows through the verdant lands of Kerala and offers one of
the best backwater cruises. Most of the flora and fauna in this region flourishes
around this supply of fresh water. The lake also acts as a balancing tank against
floods, and its wooded banks, temptingly invite a visitor to explore more. The
boats that ply on the lake vary from the large stitched-hull, cargo carriers
with domed mat-roofs to houseboats.
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary : A water-bird sanctuary lies at the edge of
the grounds of an old estate where a profusion of all kinds of birds can be
observed. Domestic birds such as cuckoo, wild duck, egrets, darters, herons,
teal, and water fowl can be seen in abundance here, as much as can the Siberian
storks which migrate to this area each year.
Kottayam : Kumarakom is situated 15 km from Kottayam on the Vembanad
lake. This little backwater town is well known for its rubber plantations. Christianity
is the dominant religion here and it is dotted with pretty old churches. Rejuvenating
ayurvedic massages are available here. Thekkady, a major wildlife center lies
114 km from here, and Sabarimala, a Hindu pilgrim center is another 134 km from
Kottayam.
Alappuzha : The charmingly unkept coastal town of Alappuzha, formerly
called Alleppey, lies close by. With its labyrinth of canals, bridges, silver
beaches, and cheerful people it makes for a memorable holiday. Alappuzha is
a never-ending panorama of lush green paddy fields, towering coconut trees,
and long canals that offers enjoyable boat cruises to Kollam along the scenic
Vembanad Lake.
ACTIVITIES :
Kumarakom is best described as a picturesque clean village like most places
in Kerala. It has lately become a preferred tourist destination. Boat races,
houseboat cruise, canoeing and fishing are some of the main attractions of
this simple place. The huge houseboats, traditionally known as the Kettuvalloms,
are complete with living rooms, toilets, kitchen, balcony for angling and
it is possible to live on them for days together for a truly unique experience.
These Kettuvalloms are actually remodelled cargo barges made of wooden planks
joined together by rope only, without using nails at all.
Kumarakom lies in the region of Kuttanad, which is the rice bowl of Kerala.
Here farming is done below sea level. The peace and quiet, biting fresh air
and unspoiled life style of the simple people of Kumarkom are a unique and rejuvenating
experience that surpasses any modern entertainment activity or pastime.
HOW TO REACH KUMARAKOM
The nearest airport is the Cochin International Airport, which is about 76
kms from Kottayam town. Kottayam is the nearest railhead to Kumarkom, about
16 km away and provides a link to all major cities in Kerala and India with
numerous trains plying its route daily. The nearest bus terminal, is also
at Kottayam.
TOURIST TRAVEL INFORMATION
Kumarakom is located on the Southern coast of India enjoys a well-balanced
tropical climate. The local spring season emerges from August and coincides
with the harvest festival of Onam. The lowest and highest temperatures recorded
are 16.10 C and 37.80 C. There is always a cool, fresh breeze, which makes
even the warmest weather readily agreeable. The South West monsoon is from
early June to early August. However, slight drizzles persist till early November.
Average rainfall is 1100 mm per year. The peak tourist season is from November
to March.
BEST TIME TO TRAVEL KUMARAKOM
The time when one can enjoy the enchanting backwaters is from December through
March. A visit around January15 provides the chance to see the Boat Race at
Alleppey on January 19 and the Great Elephant March Jan 17 to 20. Second Saturday
of August is Nehru Trophy Snakeboat Race
5. ABOUT MUNNAR : Munnar is situated at
the confluence of three mountain streams namely Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni and
Kundala. This hill station, located at an altitude of 1600 m above sea level,
was once the summer resort of the erstwhile British government in South India.
Sprawling tea plantations, picture book towns, winding lanes and holiday facilities
make this a popular resort town. Among the exotic flora found in the forests
and grasslands is the 'Neelakurinji'.
This flower which bathes the hills in blue every twelve years will bloom
next in 2006 AD. Munnar also has the highest peak in south India, Anamudi,
which towers over 2695 m. Anamudi is an ideal spot for trekking.
PRIME ATTRACTIONS
Mattupetti (13 km from Munnar) : Situated at a height of 1700 m, Mattupetti
is famous for its highly specialised dairy farm, the Indo-swiss live stock project.
Over 100 varieties of high yielding cattle are reared here. Visitors are allowed
into three of the eleven cattle sheds at the farm.
The Mattupetti Lake and dam, just a short distance from the farm, is a very
beautiful picnic spot. The sprawling Kundala tea plantations and the Kundala
lake are other attractions in the vicinity. DTPC Idukki provides boating facilities
on the Mattupetty Dam. Speed Launch and slow speed motor boats are available
on hire.
Pothamedu (6 km from Munnar) : Pothamedu offers an excellent view of
the tea, coffee and cardamom plantations in Munnar. The rolling hills, the lush
mountain and the breathtaking scenery here is ideal for trekking and long mountain
walks.
Pallivasal (8 km from Munnar) :This is the venue of the first Hydro Electric
Project in Kerala and a place of immense scenic beauty.
Attukal (9 km from Munnar) : A panorama of waterfalls and rolling hills,
Attukal, located between Munnar and Pallivasal, is a feast for the eyes. The
place is also ideal for long treks.
Nyayamakad (10 km from Munnar) : Located between Munnar and Rajamala,
Nyayamakad is a land of breathtaking waterfalls. The waters cascade down a hill
from a height of about 1600 meters. The enchanting surroundings makes an excellent
picnic spot and trekking point.
Chithirapuram (10 km from Munnar) : With its sleepy little cottages,
bungalows, old playgrounds and courts, Chithirapuram still exudes an old world
charm. Home of the Pallyvasal Hydel Power Project, this hill town is also famous
for its picturesque tea plantations.
Lock Heart Gap (13 km from Munnar) : This is an ideal place for adventure
tourism and trekking. The fresh mountain air, the mist-clad hills and panoramic
view make it worthy of a visit.
Rajamala (15 km from Munnar) : The natural habitat of the Nilgiri Tahr,Rajamala
is 2695 m above sea level. Half the world's population of the rare mountain
goat or tahr, which is fast becoming extinct, is now found here.
The Nilgiri Tahr in Rajamala is now to be found in small herds found in Eravikulam-Rajamala
region. The total number of Nilgiri Tahrs in Rajamala is estimated to be over
1300. Visitors are not allowed during the monsoon.
Echo Point (15 km from Munnar) : This scenic place gets its name from
the natural echo phenomenon here. Echo point is on the way to Top Station from
Munnar.
Eravikulam National Park (15 km from Munnar) : The 97 sq. kms park is
situated in the Devikulam Taluk and is home to the Nilgiri Tahr. The Anamudi
peak (2695 m) is located in the Southern region of the park. Originally established
to protect the Nilgiri tahr (Nilgiri Ibex), the Eravikulam National Park is
situated in the Devikulam Taluk of the Idukki District.
It was declared as a sanctuary in 1975. Considering the ecological, faunal,
floral, geo-morphological and zoological significance, it was declared as
a National park in 1978. It covers an area of 97 sq kms of rolling grasslands
and high level sholas (evergreen forests).
The park is breathtakingly beautiful and is easily comparable to the best
mountain ranges found anywhere in the world. The park is divided into 3 regions
- the core area, the buffer area and the tourism area.
Visitors are allowed only to the tourism area, which is in the Rajamala region.
The Nilgiri Tahr can be observed at close quarters here. Trekking facilities
are available here. Tourists are allowed to go on foot up to Anamudi. This
is also a place for adventure tourism.
Trekking Areas
Anamudi, Rajamala.
Power House or Chinnakanal Waterfalls (18 km from Munnar) : The waterfall
on the way to Thekkady from Munnar cascades down a steep rock 2000 m above sea
level. The spot is enriched with the scenic Western mountain ranges, and is
an ideal place for a break on the way to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Thekkady.
Kundala (20 km from Munnar) : Kundala is a picturesque town on the way
to Top Station. The Golf Course which belongs to Tata Tea Ltd. is located here.
The Kundala artificial dam is another attraction. Aruvikkad Waterfall is also
near Kundala.
EXCURSIONS Anayirangal (22 kms from Munnar) : It's a lush green carpet
of tea plants. A trip on the splendid reservoir is an unforgettable experience.
The Anayirangal dam is surrounded by Tata Tea plantations and evergreen forests.
It is an ideal picnic spot.
Devikulam (7 kms from Munnar) : This idyllic hill station with its velvet
lawns, exotic flora and fauna and the cool mountain air offers a rare experience
to visitors. The Sita Devi Lake with its mineral waters and picturesque surroundings
is a good picnic spot. The lake is also ideal for trout fishing.
Valara (10 kms from Adimali on the Kochi-Madurai highway) : Valara has
a chain of waterfalls surrounded by thick green forests.
Marayoor (40 kms from Munnar) : This is the only place in Kerala that
has a natural growth of sandalwood trees. The sandalwood factory of the forest
department, the caves (muniyaras) with the murals and relics from the New stone
age civilization and the children's park spread across a hectare of land under
the canopy of a single banyan tree, are of great interest to tourists. Thoovanam
waterfalls and Rajiv Gandhi National Park are also nearby.
HOW TO GET THERE
Air : Near by airports are at Kochi (130 kms) and Madurai (142 kms).
Rail : Nearest railway stations are at Kochi and Kottayam.
Road : The place is well connected by a well developed network of road
transport.
Local transport: Local buses, cycles.
6. ABOUT COCHIN : Cochin, which is now known
as Kochi is the commercial capital of Kerala. It is a place which is blended
with historical places, palaces, forts, old churches, beaches, backwaters, snake
boats races, Kathakali, museums and the convenience of a big city with towering
buildings and business centers. With serene backwaters, beautiful lagoons, wooded
isles and a magnificent landscape, Cochin is indeed the Queen of the Arabian
Sea.
Cochin is a world of palm trees and breaking waves at the south -eastern
tip of the Indian peninsula. With serene backwaters, beautiful lagoons, wooded
isles and a magnificent landscape, setting sun on the beaches of Cochin, Cochin
is indeed the Queen of the Arabian Sea.
Another gateway into India, Cochin has been in cultural and trade contact
with the outside world right from its early years. Cochin, has one of the
finest natural harbours of the world. Cochin, today is one of the largest
and most important city in Kerala. It is also known to be the second most
important city on the western coast of India. Kochi is also known as the Queen
of the Arabian Sea.
Across its bay and on the islands are the sleepy coconut villages of Vypin,
Bolghatty and Vallaradom. It is a city with a glorious cultural past. Kochi
is located in the center of Kerala covering about 87,341 sq. km with a population
which comes upto approximately 12,00,000. The language which is spoken here
is Malayalam.
Best Season : The climate is moderate throughout the year and the temperature
ranges from a minimum of 22.5oc to a maximum of 35oc in the summer and from
a minimum of 20oc to a maximum of 32oc in the winter. The ideal season of visit
is between September and May. The city is pretty clean with the local authorities
doing a good job in maintaining it in that way.
Being situated very close to the sea, Kochi has a moderate climate. Heavy
showers are experienced during the months June, July and August due to the
South-West Monsoon. The North-East Monsoon brings light rainfall during the
months September, October, November and December. December to February is
pretty cool. The annual rainfall is about 310 cm . In summer the temperature
rises to a maximum of 35 ºC while in winter it is around 25 ºC .
Location : Kochi (Cochin), the Queen of the Arabian Sea, is situated
on the west coast of India in the beautiful state of Kerala. Kochi can be regarded
as the commercial and industrial capital of Kerala.
PLACES TO SEE:
Dutch Palace- Mattancherry : Dutch Palace was built by the Portuguese
and presented to the Cochin Raja in AD 1555. It acquired the present name after
1663 when the Dutch carried out some extensions and repairs. In the centre of
the building is the Coronation Hall where the Cochin Rajas held their coronations
. Rooms adjacent contain 17th century murals depicting scenes from the Indian
epic the Ramayana. Open daily from 1000 to 1700 hrs, closed on Friday and national
holidays.
Jewish Synagogue- Mattancherry : Jewish Synagogue was built in 1568.
The Great Scrolls of the Old Testament, the Copper Plates on which the grants
of privilege made by the Cochin rulers were recorded and the exquisite Chinese
hand-painted tiles are of interest. Open daily from 1000 to 1200 hrs. and 1500
to 1700 hrs : Closed on Saturdays and on Jewish holidays.
Fort Kochi beach : A stroll along the beach, particularly at sunset with
the Chinese fishing nets and sailing ships in the background, is a fine experience.
Many European style bungalows can be seen along the shoreline.
Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary : This bird sanctuary is situated right in
the heart of Kochi city. It is the home of many exotic and rare varieties of
migratory birds. Museum of Kerala History The museum has on display life size
statues of many famous personalities and several paintings depicting Kerala.
Palliport (Pallipuram) Fort : It is the oldest European fort built in
India.
Parikshith Thampuram Museum : The museum is situated near the famous
Siva Temple, Ernakulam. It houses a treasure of archaeological findings and
relics including old coins, sculptures, oil paintings and murals.
The Parikshith Thampuram Museum, the State Archaeological Department, and
the Kerala Lalitha Kala Academy Gallery of Contemporary Art are of interest
along the Durbar Hall Road which branches eastwards from the southern end
of Park Avenue.
Collections of 19th century oil paintings, old coins, sculpture in stone and
plaster of paris, copies of mural paintings, etc. Collections from Cochin royal
family are also among them. Timings : 0930 to 1200 hrs and 1500 to 1730 hrs.
Closed on Mondays and national holidays. Admission is free.
St. Francis Church-Fort Cochin : The Protestant church was built originally
by the Portuguese in AD 1510 and is believed to be the first church built by
Europeans in India. Vasco de Gama was originally buried here. His mortal remains
were taken to Portugal after 14 years.
Santa Cruz Cathedral-Fort Cochin : Roman Catholic church situated close
to St. Francis Church. Some beautiful paintings can be seen here.
Chinese Fishing Net-Fort Cochin : These Chinese fishing net is fabulous.
At the entrance of the harbour these nets along the backwaters are a fascinating
sight.
Bolghatty island-Bolghatty : A long narrow palm-fringed easily accessible
from the mainland. The Bolghatty Palace is situated here. It was built by the
Dutch in 1744. Later it became the seat of the British Resident and now it has
been converted into a hotel under KTDC. The palace has a golf course on its
grounds.
Bolghatty Palace : This Dutch palace is situated on the Bolghatty island.
At present it is being used as hotel. The island has a fine golf course and
the panoramic view makes it an attractive picnic spot. Frequent boat service
is available from the mainland. Chinese Fishing Nets The Chinese fishing nets
found here are the only ones of its kind in India. It is believed that traders
from the court of the Chinese ruler Kublai Khan introduced these nets here.
Click here to view a picture of the Chinese fishing nets found here.
Willingdon Island : Willingdon island is a man-made island created with
the material dredged while deepening Cochin port. Regular ferry services on
the lake surrounding the island afford an inexpensive back-water cruise. The
Government of India Tourist Office is situated here. The Southern Naval Command
Headquarters of India, the seaport, airport, railway terminus, important offices
of the port, and the customs house are all located on this Island.
Parishath Thamburan Museum- Ernakulam : Collections of 19th century oil
paintings, old coins, sculpture in stone and plaster of paris, copies of mural
paintings, etc. Collections from Cochin royal family are also among them. Timings
: 0930 to 1200 hrs and 1500 to 1730 hrs. Closed on Mondays and national holidays.
Hill Palace Museum- Thripunithura : Displays articles of archeological
importance such as the royal bed, paintings, epigraphy carvings, different varieties
of arms, etc.
Museum of Kerala History Edapally, (Pathadipalam) Ernakulam : Various
changes in historical and Cultural spheres which happened in Kerala for the
past 4000 years are beautifully exhibited through the statues. Visiting time
1000 to 1600 hrs. Closed on Mondays.
Gundu island : The best part of a visit to Cochin is a boat-ride through
the backwaters to the various where the local crafts like coir-mat making can
be seen.
Marine Drive & Broadway : Marine Drive is gradually catching up as
another busy retail centre. The lively GCDA Commercial Complex along the waterfront
features a kaleidoscope of several business establishments and other institutions,
boutiques, supermarkets, fast foods, and cafes. Luxury apartments, elegant hotels,
and office buildings are located on either side of the main Shanmugham Road
which terminates at High Court Junction on northern end, where the Ram Mohan
Palace - the seat of the Kerala High Court - is situated. An evening stroll
along the water-side promenade is a favourite pastime. Broadway - narrow despite
its name - running parallel to the east of Shanmugham Road is among the city's
oldest and busiest shopping streets, where the best buys include clothes and
spices.
Park Avenue : The green lung of the metropolis so to speak, the well-shaded,
tree-lined Park Avenue gets its name from the beautifully laid-out parks on
its western side overlooking the backwaters of the Vembanad Lake and having
impressive views of Cochin harbour. The ancient Siva temple, old government
buildings, the General Hospital, the main boat jetty, the Cochin Corporation
office, the District Court, and some of the city's finest educational institutions
are located alongside this picturesque boulevard.
7. ABOUT ALLEPPEY (ALAPPUZHA) : Alleppey
is one of the most important tourist centers in the state, with a large network
of inland canals earning it the sobriquet "Venice of the east". These
large network of canals provide Alleppey its lifeline. Alleppey was one of the
busiest centers of trade in the past with one of the best known ports along
the malabar coast. Even today it retains its charm as the centre for Coir carpet
industries and prawn farming. Alleppey the ideal headquarters for backwater
tourism as well as for visits to the lovely church filled town of Kottayam,
and the town of Aranmula, famous for its historic Aranmula Snake Boat Race which
is an annual event.
Alleppey is also known for its spectacular snake - boat races held on the
second Saturday of August, every year. This competition - the Nehru boat race
takes its name from India's first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru, who inaugurated
in 1952. It is excitement all around as snake - boats , each manned by over
a hundred oarsmen, cut through the waters like wind. The event is a tremendous
success with tourists and the local population alike.
The boat cruise along the backwaters of Alleppey give one first hand experience
of the life style, toddy tapping, fishing for small fry, Coir-making, prawn
farming etc. which remains more or less unchanged over the years.
Accessibility
By Air : The nearest airport is at Cochin.
By Rail : Alleppey Railway Station. Connected by rail with Cochin and
Trivandrum.
By Road : Well connected by road (NH-47). Trivandrum - Alleppey : 160
km, Cochin - Alleppey: 70 km.
By Water : Connected with Cochin (5 1/2 hrs), Quilon (8 hrs) and Kottayam
(2 1/2 hrs).
PLACES TO SEE:
Ambalapuzha : It is situated 14 kms. away from Alleppey. In its architectural
features, the Sreekrishna Temple confirms the typical Kerala style. The temple
is famous through out Kerala for 'Palpayasam' a milk porridge of exceptional
sweetness offered to the deity.
Karumadikkuttan : Situated 3 km east of Ambalapuzha, this village is
known for its 10th century Karumadikkuttan statue, a black granite figure of
the great Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. There are many interesting legends
connected to this idol.
Champakulam : Champakulam - the water logged village is also the place
of oldest angadi (market) known as Kalloorkkadu angadi. The St. Mary Forane
Church built in 427 A D is another major attraction famous for its beautiful
mural paintings for both tourists and believers. In Champakulam you can see
Nadubhagum and Champakulam snake boats which take part in the annual snake boat
races
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