Thrissur

Introduction and history: Thrissur, located in central Kerala adds to the cultural bonanza of the state. This cultural trove has a rich history. ‘Thiru-shiva-perur’, which literally translates to ‘The city with the name of the Lord Siva’ is well known for the celebration of the splendid Pooram festival. Beautifully caparisoned elephants parade the city with the deity in a colorful procession. Its source of inspiration is the Vadakkunathan deity (Vadakunnathan, Lord of the North, is a name of Siva).The city also plays host to numerous cultural centers. Raja Rama Varma gave a boost to the development of the city.

What To See : Thrissur Thaikat Mooss, Punkunnam Siva temple, Kottapuram Siva temple Vadakkunnathan Temple, Shakthan Thampuran Palace, Kerala Sahitya Academy, Kerala Lalitakala Academy, Kerala Sangeetha Nadaka Academy. The best season to visit Thrissur is between September to May. Pooram festival is celebrated during April or may. Visit to the Archeological and Art Museum, Thrissur Zoo is something that should not be missed out by travelers. Thrissur also offers great shopping experience.

Accommodation: Hotels covering all ranges are readily available ranging from 500 to 2000 rupees and more.

Related links:
• Tourist information: www.thrissur.com

See also (Nearby places): Guruvayoor temple and Athirappy waterfalls.

Thekkady

Introduction and history: Thekkady is one of the important, serene tourist attractions in kerala. It is located in Kerala -Tamil Nadu border town called Kumily. The primary attraction of Thekkady is its Wildlife Sanctuary, is Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. It was declared as Tiger reserve in the year 1978 and the whole part is spread across 777 square kilometres. It is primarily famous for its dense evergreen, semi-evergreen, moist deciduous forests and savanna grass lands, where toursists get opportunity to see the natural living of elephants, sambar, tigers, gaur, lion-tailed Macaques and Nilgiri Langurs. Watching the elephants playing in the lake is one of its unique scene that should not be missed.

What to see and when to go: The Primary attraction of Thekkady as mentioned above is The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Apart from that travellers get an array of beautiful places to taste the nature within few hours of reach. Vandiperiyar, Vandanmedu, Pullumedu, Kumily, Murikkady,Pandikuzhi,Mangala Devi Temple and Chellarkovil are some of the major tourist attractions around the place. Elephant rides, Trekking and boat cruises are offered here, which adds to the tourist’s delight.

Accommodation: Thekkady offers multiple accommodation facilities starting with luxurious resorts which also offer Ayurvedic massage parlours. Apart from them it has multiple hotels offering accommodation at rates ranging from 800 to 5000 rupees per day.

Mode of transport: As Thekkady is in the border of Tamilnadu and Kerala, it can be reached both states. Madurai is the nearest Airport and railway junction which is 140 kilometers away. From the Kerala side, Cochin (140 kilometers) and Kumarakom (114 kilometers) are the nearby air and train stations. It is well connected thro’ road with rest of the country starting from Kumily.

Related links:
• Thekkady Tourist information: http://www.thekkady.com/
• Kerala information: http://www.keralagreenery.org/

See also (nearby places): Peermede and Munnar are the nearby tourist attractions to Thekkady. Each of them offer more than a dozen tourist attractions in the nearby locations. Pattupetti,Devikulam,Tattekad,Chinnar,Eravikulam,Rajamalai,Marayoor,Meenuli,Bhoothathankettu, Malankara Reservoir, Chithirapuram hill station, Valara, Cheeyapara and Thomankuthu waterfalls are some of those places near to Thekkady.

Palakkad

Introduction and history: Known as the ‘Gateway of Kerala’ Palakkad is near the Palghat gap of the Western Ghats. Etymologically Palakkad is derived from the words ‘Pala’ and ‘Kadu’ where the former is a tree with sweet scented flowers and the later meaning forest. Beautiful Mountains and trees form its landscape. The place has a rich history that is evident in the many monuments and festivals celebrated here. The Palakkad district borders between Tamilnadu and Kerala.

Places of Attraction and Seasons to visit: Hyder Ali and remnants of Tipu Sultan’s fort are major tourist attractions. There are also numerous dams and canals that serve as ideal picnic spots. Silent Valley National Park, Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary, Palakkad fort, Nelliyampathy, Jain temple, Malampuzha garden, Mangalam Dam are some of the major attractions in Palakkad. September to February is the best time to visit this place. Apart from the tourist destinations, Palakkad is also famous for its Wildlife safaris, Trekking, Boating and shopping.

Accommodation: Hotels in Palakkad come to suit all pockets. There are multiple options for accommodation which includes Ayurvedic and Heritage Resorts, Luxury Hotels, Budget Hotels, Economy Hotels, and Guesthouses. The prices range from as low as 100 rupees and can go up to 3000 rupees per day.

Mode of transport: Coimbatore is the nearest Airport to Palakkad, which is located at 55 Kilometers distance. It has two major railway junctions, which is well connected with all major destinations in Southern railway. Besides, NH 47 passes through it.

Related links:
• Official website: http://palakkad.nic.in
• Tourist information: http://palakkadtourism.org/
See also (Nearby places): Thrithala, Attappady, Dhoni Hills, Kanjirapuzha and Malayalappuzha.

Kollam

Introduction and History: Kollam is the headquarters of Kollam district in Kerala. Also referred to as Quilon, the southern city has served as a magnetic trade centre since ancient times. Spices, pearls, diamonds and silk were the key exports. The seaport had flourishing trade relations with China, Rome and Greece. Recognized by the great travellers Marco Polo and Ibn Batuta, Kollam has served as a capital city. Its reputation continued to thrive during the Portuguese and Dutch invasion times. Malayalam Era is called ‘Kolla Varsham’ after Kollam, because of the importance of Kollam in the 9th century A.D. About thirty per cent of this district is covered by the Ashtamudi lake, there by making it the gateway to the backwaters of the state. Nowadays the city is famous for cashew and coir.

What to see and when to go: Killam has multiple tourist destinations which include the ruins of the Portuguese fort and the lighthouse at Thangasseri, Jatayupara at Chadayamangalam (named after Jatayu in Ramayana epic). Kollam clock tower, Thenmala and Palaruvi waterfalls serve as tourist hotspots. Mayyanad is a tourist town 10 Kilometers south of Kollam that has famous temples, churches and mosques. Kovilthottam beach and light house, sinking islands in Ashtamudi lake, St.Andrews church and Kottamkulangara temple in Chavara village also make up an ideal tourist destination. The best season to visit is from August to March

Things to do: Eco tourist’s center is situated at Thenmala. Selected by World Tourism Organization as one of the world’s best eco-friendly projects, Thenmala has a leisure zone that includes winding pathways, a sway bridge and a boardwalk; a culture zone with an amphitheatre and a musical fountain and an adventure zone. Picnic village at Ashramam plays host to variety of recreational activities that include Adventure parks. Leisurely walks along the Thirumullavaram Beach and houseboat cruises are also recommended.

Accommodation: Accommodation prices vary from place to place in the district. In the city, prices range from 150 to 10,000 Rupees per day. Overall, the rates are very economical and the resorts provide a comfortable stay.

Mode of Transport: Kollam is an important railway junction. The Thiruvananthapuram - Ernakulam(via Kottayam and Alappuzha) line passes through Kollam. The city is well-interconnected with other major cities through National Highways 47, 220 and 208. The city’s road transport is backed by buses and autos. Thiruvananthapuram airport at a distance of 72 km from Kollam is the nearest airport. The Alappuzha water transport service is a major tourist attraction.

Related links:
• Official website: http://kollam.nic.in
See also: Achencoil, Oachira, Varkala, Thevalli palace, Mahavishnu temple and Munroe Island.

Kannur

Introduction and history: Kannur is located in the western side of Kerala, which has a long history starting from 9th century when Cheras from Tamilnadu re-established their supremacy under Kulasekara Varman. Due to its vibrant trade history, it had connections with Portuguese and Francisco De Almedia was sent from Portugal with specific instructions to erect forts at strategic points during 15th Century and he started constructing the Kannur Fort in 1505 and it was named St. Angelo. After the British conquered India, it played a very significant role in Indian independence moment. Mahatma Gandhi and Maulana Shaukat Ali toured the district to carry the message of the Non-Co-operation and Khilaphat Movements.

What to see and when to go: Starting with Fort St. Angelos there are multiple places like Thalassery Fort, Payyambalam Beach Resort, Muzhappilangad Beach, Ezhimala, Malayalakalagramam, Pazhassi Dam, Snake Park at Parassinikkadavu and Moppila Bay are some of the major tourist attractions in Kannur. October to February is the best time to visit Kannur.

Accommodation: Kannur offers very economical accommodation starting with 400 rupees per day. For luxury star hotel accommodations it can go up to 3000 per day. Government promoted guest houses and hostels are available at a very reasonable price.

Mode of transport: Calicut Airport, which is located at a distance of 93 kilometres from Kannur, is the easiest way to reach by Air. Kannur has its own railway station, which is an important junction connecting many neighbouring states. Kannur is well linked by a wide network of roads and can be reached from anywhere in Kerala.

Related links:

• Official Website: http://kannur.nic.in/
• Tourist information: http://www.knr.kerala.gov.in/

See also (nearby places): Aralam Wild Life Sanctuary, Ezhimala, Kottiyoor and Pythal Mala are some of the nearby tourist attractions.

Idukki

Introduction and history: Idukki is a mountainous and predominantly forest covered district in Kerala. Being the largest district in kerala it has many tourist spots-Munnar Idukki Peermede Thekkady and others along with Painavu (headquarters).Until 1877, the place was largely unexplored. The pallivasal Hydroelectric Project, the first hydroelectric project of the State was initially constructed by the tea companies for the industrial use. Perhaps the most visible Scottish bungalow to the tourists is Ladbroke House, which is named after the Ladbroke Square in London. The Trout, coniferous trees and dark green planter’s cap are all contributions of those planters. Idukki has the largest arch dam in India, which powers almost half of the state and some neighboring states areas. Blessed generously by Mother Nature, Idukki offers various attractions like wild life sanctuaries, hill stations, spice plantation centers and pleasant mountain treks.

What to see and when to go: Idukki dam and wildlife sanctuary, Thekkady’s famous Periyar wildlife sanctuary, very famous Munnar hill station, Thommankuthu (remote and lush), Cheeyappara & Valara Water falls, Eravikulam National Park, Chinnar wild life sanctuary,the scenic Hill View Park are among the countless destinations in Idukki. Best season is from September to April.

Things to do:- Cheeyappara & Valara Water falls is also a great place for trekking. Nadukani Tower and Kalvari Mount offer wonderful and scenic panoramic views. Visit the Mangaladevi temple and the historic place Thodupuzha. Thommankuthu has seven step waterfalls that is famous with the tourists.

Accommodation: Prices vary from one tourist place to another. However, all prices range from 1000 to 6500 rupees per day. Resorts and hotels are available everywhere.

Mode of transport: National highway NH 49 passes through the district.Nearest railway stations are Ernakulam, Kottayam and Alwaye. Nearest Port is Cochin Port and Nedumbassery, the International Airport is near to the northern boundary of the district.

Related links:
• Official information: www.idukki.net.

See also: Mattupetty, Vagamon, Pullumedu, Wayanad and Kochi.

Calicut

Introduction and history: Calicut (Kozhikode) is known as the traditional city of Malabar region of Kerala. The city sandwiched between Wayanad hills on the east and Arabian Sea on the east has served as a strategic trade centre over two millennia. Its setting as a tourist destination, however, was appreciated by Vasco da Gama and Marco Polo. Vasco Da Gama first landed here in 1498. Today, the town is known for its beautiful countryside, pristine beaches, historic sites, calm backwaters, wildlife sanctuaries, rivers, timber industry and Ayurvedic medicines.

What to see and when to go: Kozhikode Beach, Mananchira Square, the renovated square today houses important structures such as Commonwealth Trust Factory, Town Hall, Lalitkala Academy Hall, Jama’atpalli Mosque and Muchhandipalli Mosque, the oldest in Kerala), Kappad Beach. The best season to visit Calicut is from September to May. Apart from spending time in tourist destinations, Calicut offers various other options like shopping, cruise along the backwaters in the Kallai River and other canals. Kakkayam is famous for trekking.

Accommodation: Calicut offers multiple accommodation options. There are many hotels which are priced below 2000 per day. Expensive hotels are also available.

Mode of transport: Its airport is at Karipur, which is 25 kilometers away from the centre of the city. It is well connected with all major domestic locations inside India. It has a local railway station, which is connects to major junctions like Chennai, Mangalore, Goa and Mumbai. Tourist guide information supplied by Government and Private agencies at various locations provide extensive information about train timings. It also has a good network of railways and well connected by roads with other towns and cities. NH 17 and 212 are the major highways.

Related links:

• Tourist information: http://www.calicut.net
• Calicut city portal: http://www.calicutcity.com/

See also (nearby places): Beypore, Thushagiri waterfalls and Peruvannamuzhi.

Alleppey

Introduction and history: Alleppey remains prominent on the tourist trial of Kerala as one of the major centers for backwater boat trips. The large network of crisscrossing canals lined with coconut trees has earned it the name ‘The Venice of The East’. It is well known for its coir industries. Alappuzha or Alleppey is also home to Kuttanad, The rice bowl of Kerala, one of the very few places in the world where farming is done below sea level. Alleppey was a historic trade centre having connections with ancient Greece, Rome and other parts of India. It is mentioned in the Sangam era.

What to see and when to go: Kuttanad, Ambalapuzha Temple, Mullakkal Rajeswari Temple, Karumadikkuttan, Block Kayal. The lighthouse at the beach is one of the major tourist attractions. Apart from temples mentioned above, Alleppey is famous for its ancient churches, which stands as a testimony of past. Poomkavu Church is one of the ancient churches of the past. August is the best time to visit as that is when the famed Snake boat races are held. Backwater cruises on the Punnamada Kayal and visits to the Alleppey beach are some of the major tourist attractions.

Accommodation: Being a tourist destination, the town has a wide range of hotels and resorts. Accommodation prices range from 1000 to 3000 rupees. Houseboats can also be rented. This comfortable stay costs 5000 for non A/C and up to 20,000 for A/C houseboats.

Mode of transport: Cochin is the nearest international airport, which is 64 kilometers away. Alleppey is also well connected by trains to different cities by direct trains. For nature lovers the train journey from Cochin should not be missed out as it passes through most beautiful backwaters and country sides in Kerala. It is connected to all important cities by roads and inter-state by houseboats.

Important links:
• Official website: http://www.alappuzha.com
• Tourist information: http://www.atdcalleppey.com
See also: Champakulam, Krishnapuram Palace and Mararikulam

Varkala

Introduction and history: Varkala is a small but picturesque town in southern Kerala. It is best known for its unique tertiary sedimentary formation cliffs off the Arabian Sea coast that are considered as a geological monument. Apart from beautiful beaches, it is famous for the 2000 year old Janardhanaswamy (Vishnu) temple. Hence it is also known as Dakshina Kashi. Taking a dip in the Papanasam beach is considered to be auspicious. The town is famous for is Sivagiri Mutt founded by the great Hindu reformer and Philosopher Sree Narayana Guru.

What to see and when to go: Papanasam Beach, mineral water springs, the Sivagiri Mutt, Janardhana Swamy temple and Anjengo fort. The best season is from October to March. In line with Kerala’s Ayurvedic history, massages and treatment is something very special at Varkala. Viewing the sunrise and sunset views at the beach is a great scene for nature lovers.

Accommodation: Varkala offers various options for accommodation. Expensive and middle-class hotels are available in the price range of 500 to 1500 rupees per day.

Mode of transport: Trivandrum is the nearest Airport which is the 57 kilometers away. The national highway number 47 (NH-47) connects Varkala with almost all major cities in South India. It has its own railway station, which is well connected with Trivandrum with frequent train. Auto Rickshaws are available in aplenty. Bicycles can be rented for traveling local areas in the city. If living around the cliff/beach area, majority of places can be easily done on foot.

Related links:
• Kerala Tourism: http://www.keralatourism.org/
• Tourist information: http://www.varkkala.com

See also: Trivandrum, Kanyakumari, Cochin, Munnar and Alleppey.

Matheran Hill Station

Introduction and history: Matheran undoubtedly is Maharashtra’s one of the most beautiful and well maintained hill station. Matheran is situated in the Matheran range of sahyadris at a height of 750 metres. It has been quite a long, since an Englishman Hugh Mallet discovered Matheran in 1850 but little has changed in Matheran. In 1855, Matheran grew more accessible and popular under the patronage of Lord Elphinstone, the Governor of Bombay. He also developed roadways and opened the first mountain railway in Mathern in 1907.

What to see and when to go: Matheran’s cliffs with incredibly steep drops to the plains below create stunning viewing points. These panoramic vistas, by day and night, leave you feeling light-headed. The Hart Point offers a view of the lights of Mumbai at night! Vehicles of any kind are not permitted in the town, which makes it a very quiet, serene place. The ideal time to visit this beautiful hill station is from October and May.

Things to do: All of Matheran is a series of such quixotically named points that are popular, if isolated, sides of picnic and fireside revelry at night. Charlotte Lake, the Panther’s Caves and Paymaster Park are other attractions, especially for children. The old world charm of the British and Parsi homes are an irresistible draw. Rummaging through the small bazaar in Matheran is an exciting idea.

Accommodation: Matheran has plenty of accommodation options. The town is dotted with mid range hotels to luxurious hotels and resorts.

Mode of transport: Mumbai , 100 kilometres, away is the nearest airport. Neral 21 kilometres away, is toy train is available. As the common mode of transport in this tiny hill station is rickshaws and buggy.

Related links:
• Tourist information: http://www.aroundpune.com

See also (nearby places): Charlotte Lake, Panthers’ Caves, Paymaster Park, Khandala and Lonavla, Porcupine Point, Prabalgad fort, Mumbai and Pune.

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