India Tours

Kerala Tourism

Kerala is located in the southern part of India. Arabian Sea in the west, the Western Ghats towering 500 – 2700 m. in the east, Kerala enjoys characteristic geographical values that have made it a truly paradise of nature lovers. Kerala is worldly famous for Ayurveda and backwaters holidays destinations. Kerala is enriched and know for natural beauty, green fields, Waterfalls, sprawling tea and coffee plantations, paddy fields. Wildlife, beaches; National Geographic Traveler listed Kerala in its one of the ten 'Paradises Found'. Kerala is a land acclaimed for the splendid nature of its cultural ethos, and also cherished for its soothing and rejuvenation. A long coastline with tranquil beaches, serene stretches of backwaters, striking wildlife, waterfalls, lush green hill stations, sprawling tea plantations, paddy fields and Ayurveda are the draws the tourists from all over the world. Kerala is too versatile to offer all tastes and preferences, what you desire.

Kerala is rich not only in its natural beauty, backwaters, beaches and Ayurveda but also in its history and culture. Kerala is ecstasy for wildlife and adventure lovers. The same goes for beaches and backwaters lovers, since this sate offers incredible opportunities for fun and adventurous activities. The equable climate of Kerala make holidays more memorable and enchanting.

Here, "Ayurveda", the sacred science of life and ancient system of medicine that originated in India. Ayurveda treatments, therapies and rejuvenate the body and mind. During your trip to Kerala, make sure to look into Ayurveda to reap its benefits. Kerala is also known for its rich cultural mosaic, studded with landmark ancient churches, monuments, forts, memorials and temples. KERALA also known for the personate and grand fair and festivals like Onam, Pooram and Thissur, a fascinating experience of Kerala. All Kerala is truly a complete holiday destination.

Kochi, the commercial capital, in the north of Kerala, a lot to offer for those interested culture and history. The old European church, Chinese fishing nets and the Jewish synagogue are only a few of the remnants of the old world.

Kerala offers a unique quality, no other Indian destination offers. This state is one of most advanced society with 100% literacy. There is a world-class health care system in Kerala. India's lowest infant mortality and highest life expectancy rates. Top of the line, physical quality of life in India. The state so quite peaceful and immaculate, India's cleanest State.

Trivandrum

Thiruvananthapuram, formerly called as Trivandrum, is the capital city of Kerala. The place lies towards the southern end of Kerala and the just 87 kms from the far southern end. The city is situated on the low lying hills of the Western Coast of India, interspersed by ridges and lanes. An area of around 250 sq. kilometers between Western Ghats and the Aabian Sea.Trivandrum is so called as it considered being the abode of Anantha, according to the Hindu mythology, who is the sacred serpent of God Vishnu. The mesmerizing sunsets, lagoons fringed by coconut groves bordering its beautiful lagoons, aromatic spice and coffee – tea plantations fields and cool breeze provide the memorable experience to all the senses of a human body. The city is also nicknamed as the 'City of Seven Hills' and was once a very famous port where Romans, Jews, Arabs and Christians came constantly. Still Trivandrum is one of the biggest centers of industries related marine trade.

The Indian history reveals that Lord Parashuram snatched this land away from the sea by throwing his axe at it and thus, sea fearfully receded. Thus, Kerala along with Trivandrum emerged from the sea. The abundant natural beauty of the city is implausible, the blend of traditional and modern culture makes Trivandrum a heavenly tourist destination. The city has played an important role in the maritime history and now more popular among the tourists for its Ayurveda resorts and centers. The space research here is at par with rest of the world while the gorgeous backwaters and lagoon cruises and charming beaches and seashores make it the first choice for the beaches and water sport lovers. For lazier people, this oriental paradise has relaxing Ayurveda massages, therapy and treatment at cool and calm beaches of this beautiful destination. Trivandrum is still has a rustic ambience. The Napier Museum has a wonderful over view of the state's history. From here, you can easily explore the marvelous beaches of Varkala and Kovalam.

The Indian history reveals that Lord Parashuram snatched this land away from the sea by throwing his axe at it and thus, sea fearfully receded. Thus, Kerala along with Trivandrum emerged from the sea. The abundant natural beauty of the city is implausible, the blend of traditional and modern culture makes Trivandrum a heavenly tourist destination. The city has played an important role in the maritime history and now more popular among the tourists for its Ayurveda resorts and centers. The space research here is at par with rest of the world while the gorgeous backwaters and lagoon cruises and charming beaches and seashores make it the first choice for the beaches and water sport lovers. For lazier people, this oriental paradise has relaxing Ayurveda massages, therapy and treatment at cool and calm beaches of this beautiful destination. Trivandrum is still has a rustic ambience. The Napier Museum has a wonderful over view of the stat's history. From here, you can easily explore the marvelous beaches of Varkala and Kovalam.

Altitude: Sea level, Temperature: (deg C)-Summer - Max.36.2, Min.20.6, Winter - Max.35, Min.18., Rainfall: 170 cms (May to November), Best Season: October to March.

Places of Interest:

Padmanabhaswamy Temple,Napier Museum, Zoological Park, Sri Chitra Art Gallery, Science & Technology Museum, Shanmugham Beach,SMSM Institute, Aruvikkara Dam and Neyyar Dam , Veli Lagoon.

Excursions:

Kovalam- 16 kms, Kanniyakumari- 87 kms, Padmanabhapuram Palace- 54 kms, Ponmudi- 61 kms Quilon- 72 kms, Suchindram Temple- 99 kms, Thekkady (Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary)- 272 kms, Varkala- 55 kms.

Reach -

By Air: Connected to Madras, Cochin, & Delhi , Bombay.

By Rail: Connected to Calcutta and other important cities.

By Road: Periyar- 272 kms,Calicut- 448 kms, Cochin- 223 kms, Quilon- 73 kms,Kanyakumari- 87 kms, Varkala- 55 kms , Madurai- 417 kms, Ponmudi- 61 kms.

Kovalam

The Malabar Coast along the Kerala shore line is a small village, called Kovalam is, 16 kms away from Trivandrum, a sheltered bay endowed with exotic beauty. Kovalam means a grove of coconut trees and truly the coconut trees along the beaches gives it a paradise of nature. A beautiful and calm beach town on the Arabian Sea. . A massive rocky promontory on the beach has created a beautiful bay of tranquil waters, ideal for water sports and sea bathing. The Arabian Sea coast at many places is lined with beautiful patches of coral reefs. This natural bay is a safe sea side, free from high waves and surge. Kovalam has become one of the most sought-after tourist destinations of Kerala. Kovalam features three magnificent crescent beaches. For a less crowded and calm beach, visit Samudra Beach, with abundant coconut trees and great views of the local people and fishermen at work.

Three Exotic Beaches of Kovalam: The Kovalam Palm Beach line is formed by three beaches. The most popular and largest beach is the Lighthouse Beach. The beach is aptly named for its 30-meter lighthouse; from here you can have a view a stunning site - the Vizhinjam mosque. The middle beach is known as Hawah beach. Each morning this beach acts as a platform for the local fisherman. The northern most beach, Samudra, is least affected and less crowded of all by the changing times. It is dotted with few elementary wooden fishing vessels.

Three Exotic Beaches of Kovalam: The Kovalam Palm Beach line is formed by three beaches. The most popular and largest beach is the Lighthouse Beach. The beach is aptly named for its 30-meter lighthouse; from here you can have a view a stunning site - the Vizhinjam mosque. The middle beach is known as Hawah beach. Each morning this beach acts as a platform for the local fisherman. The northern most beach, Samudra, is least affected and less crowded of all by the changing times. It is dotted with few elementary wooden fishing vessels.

Ayurveda:

The Ayurvedic massage and treatments biggest draw among the tourists, available at the various hotels and resorts. Kovalam is known for with numerous yoga centers which are ideal places to rejuvenate body and soul. Performances of traditional Kathakali dance (traditional Kerala art form) and ethnic martial art, Kalarippayattu at some of the theaters is other Kovalam tourist attractions.

Adventure Activities:

Kovalam beach is packed all adventure buffs. It is an ideal beach destination to indulge & in various thrilling adventure sports within the territory of this exotic beaches of Kovalam. There are sports activities are like surfing, swimming, and angling. Skiing and kayaking in the vast sapphire water of Arabian Sea which touches the golden sands of Kovalam. Add more fun by hiring the boat from fisherman and set out wonderful fishing experience.

Altitude: Sea level, Temperature: (deg C)- Summer - 36°-20°; Winter - 16°-32°C , Rainfall: 170 cms (May to November), Best Season: (September to May)

Places of Interest:

Architectural buildings, Kovalam Jama Masjid and the Ganapati Temple, Light house, Akkulam Boat Club, Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary, Neyyar Dam, and Castle Kovalam Veli Lagoon, which is a waterfront park considered ideal for picnic and it is the point where lake merges with the sea.

Reach -

By Air: Nearest Airport is Trivandrum, 21 kms.

By Rail: Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum) is the nearest Railway station (20 kms) from Kovalam.

By Road: Kumarakom 90 kms, Trivandrum 16 kms, Cochin 216 kms, Periyar 217 kms, Alleppy 165 kms, Varkala Beach 65 kms. .

Alleppey

Alleppey also known as Alappuzha, it was officially named Alappuzha in 1990. This backwater little town is one of very lovely place in South of Cochin, along Malabar Cost, a major trade centre. Enchanting Backwaters and boat cruises, has carved out quite a name for Alleppey , every year thousands of tourists visit here to experience world fame backwaters beaches and lagoons holidays, this place is undoubtedly like a paradise for nature lovers. The town is having huge network of backwater canals, passes through the town, also provides lifeline and has golden beaches. Alleppey is the known town for popular coir made product. The most colourful snake, board race: Nehru Trophy Boat Race is held here every year, during second Saturday of August month.

Take a one-night cruise on a traditional houseboat on the romantic backwaters of Alappuzha. Gaze at the moon while lying peacefully on the dock while you listen to the soft splashes of water against the houseboat. The houseboats are equipped with all modern amenities like plush carpets, bedrooms with attached bath and on board food. So you get authentic Kerala cuisine while you sail through the gorgeous backwaters, thinking to yourself whether this place is actually untouched by time. So visit Alleppey if you really want to see what it feels to surrender yourself to nature and feel like been born again.

Backwaters tour:

A glide in a "Kettuvalam" (Houseboat) through the enthralling backwaters of Alappuzha is breath taking experience. Gaze at the moon in the night, while lying serenely on the dock while you feel the sound to the soft splashes of water splashing on the houseboat. The narrow canal with palm fringed, winding through the enormous stretch neat tiny hamlet and paddy filed. The tiny villages are lined up both the side of the backwater canals, which is panoramic and memorable site, not easy to skip from the whole life of your travel experience. Chinese finishing nets recalling the past marine trade links also found while you are sailing by backwaters. A marvelous and scenic occurrence to capture the pictures of flocks of ducks playing in and around water and birds flying across the sky.

The backwater houseboats avails modern amenities, post living room with Sun deck, bedrooms with attached toilets, well stocked kitchen with chief to service you authentic Cuisine of Kerala while your are sailing through the enchanting backwaters. The ultimate experience of nature and backwaters in the picturesque town, thinking whether this place is actually untouched by time, you won’t feel to leave this captivating place, once you are here.

Altitude: 700 to 2100 m above level, Temperature: (deg C)-summer- Max 35, Min: 22.5. Winter- Max 32, Min 22., Rainfall: 254 cms, Best Season: August to February.

Places of Interest:

Backwater Cruise, Coir Industries.

Excursions:

Ambalapuzha- 14 kms, Haripad- 33 kms.

Reach -

By Air: Nearest Airport Cochin- 67 kms is connected to the major cities.

By Rail: Nearest railhead, Cochin- 64 kms is connected to major cities in India.

By Water: Alleppey is well connected through waterways. It is well-linked by boat, ferry, houseboat services through the scenic backwater to Cochin, Kollam, Kottayam, Kumarakom, Kovalam, etc.

By Road: Cochin- 64 kms, Calicut: 289 kms, Quilon: 85 kms, Trivandrum: 159 kms, Haripad: 33 kms, Thekkady: 253 kms, Kumarakom: 130 kms.

Quilon (Kollam)

The present day Quilon is famous for its varied modern industries, Cashewnut Processing & Research, fisheries etc. for the tourists coming from Trivandrum, Quilon is the beginning of the magnificent backwaters of Kerala. Quilon like Alleppey is also surrounded by beautiful coconut palms presenting a panoramic view cruising on this lake is very interesting.

Altitude: Sea level, Temperature: (deg C) Summer- Max 35, Min 25, Winter- Max 33.5, Min 24., Rainfall: 279 cms., Best Season: October to March.

Places of Interest:

Thangassery Light House and Backwaters.

Excursions:

Chavara- 16 kms, Kundara- 13 kms, Courtallam (Health Resort)- 104 kms, Alleppey- 85 kms.

Reach -

By Air: The nearest Airport Trivandrum- 71 kms is connected to Bombay, Bangalore, Cochin, Delhi, Madras, Male & Colombo.

By Rail: Connected to major cities in India.

By Road: Chavara- 16 kms, Trivandrum- 71 kms, Varkala- 37 kms, Alleppey- 85 kms, Kottayam- 110 kms, Thekkady- 1100 kms, Ernakulam- 152 kms, Kundara-13 kms, Trichur- 229 kms, Palghat- 308 kms, Calicut- 374 kms, Cannanore- 461 kms, Kasaragod- 575 kms.

Kottayam

Kottayam situated in South of Cochin is a cultural Center with beautiful Old churches. Though a busy commercial city, on its west, it has beautiful backwaters & on its eastern parts it is full of greenery. At Vembanad Lake in Kumarakam tourists can enjoy the beautiful backwater trips.

Area: 15.54 sq. km., Altitude: Sea level, Temperature: (deg C) Max Min Summer- 35 Deg 22.5 Deg. Winter- 32 Deg 22 Deg, Rainfall:176 cms., Best Season: October to March.

Places of Interest:

Valiya Pally, Thazhathangadi Mosque and Kumarakam.

Excursions:

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (Thekkady)- 114 kms, Ettumanoor- 13 kms, Vaikkom- 48 kms.

Reach -

By Air: Nearest Airport is Cochin- 76 kms.

By Rail: Well connected with major cities.

By Rail: Cochin-76 kms, Madurai- 248 kms, Kanyakumari- 267 kms, Thekkady- 114 kms, Trivandrum- 180 kms.

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

The Periyar wildlife Sanctuary at Thekkady is an important tourist attraction. It is situated on the Periyar lake in the hills of Western Ghats and is the finest sanctuary for viewing & photographing Indian wild elephants.

Altitude: 900 m to 2000 meters, Temperature: (deg C) Summer- Max 29, Min 18. Winter- Max 21, Min 15.5., Rainfall: 203 cms (June to October), Best Season: September to May.

Places of Interest:

Indian Wild Elephants, Sambar, Barking Deer, Wild Boar, Tigers, Panthers, Wild Dogs, Bison, Spotted deer, Leopard, Musk deer. Wildlife can be seen in its natural habitat by cruising on the lake in motorboats.

Excursions:

Forest Arubi creek- 16 kms, Crusoe Island- 19 kms, Manakkavala- 10 kms, Mullakudy- 29 km Pavarasu 19- kms, Periyar Dam- 12 kms, Thannikudy- 38 kms, Peermade- 40 kms.

Reach -

By Air: Nearest airport is Madurai- 140 kms connected with Madras, Trichy & Bangalore.

By Rail: Bodinayakanur- 67 kms, Kottayam- 114 kms.

By Rail: Cochin- 190 kms, Idikki- 66 kms, Kodaikanal- 160 kms, Madurai- 145 kms, Munnar- 113 kms, Trivandrum- 272 kms, Kottayam- 114 kms.

Cochin (Kochi)

Cochin, the commercial hub of Kerala, is a town of great historical importance. It has a fine natural harbour around which the city has grown. The Fort Cochin area, where the Portuguese settled in the 16th century, has been declared as Heritage Zone.

Climate: (deg C) Summer Max 35 deg Min 22 deg. Winter Max 32 deg Min 20 deg., Rainfall: 254 cm (June to October), Best Season: October to March.

Places of Interest:

Dutch Palace, Jewish Synagogue, St.Francis Church, Bolghatty, Gunda and Willingdon Islands, Kerala History Museum, Hill Palace Museum, Parishath Taamburan Museum, Chinese Fishing Nets, Santacruz Cathedral (Basilica).

Excursions:

Alwaye- 21 kms, Kalady- 45 kms, Alleppey- 64 kms, Trichur- 80 kms, Kottayam- 76 kms, Guruvayur- 109 kms, Munnar- 136 kms, Idikki- 138 kms, Palghat- 163 kms, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (Thekkady)- 190 kms, Sabarimala 209- kms, Calicut (Kozhikode)- 218 kms.

Reach -

By Air: Connected with Delhi, Bombay, Madras, Goa, Bangalore and Trivandrum.

By Rail: Connected with all the major cities.

By Road: Alleppey- 64 kms, Bangalore- 565 kms, Kanniyakumari- 309 kms, Kodaikanal- 444 kms, Madras- 694 kms, Madurai- 324 kms, Thekkady- 190 kms and Trivandrum- 223 kms.

Trichur (Trissur)

Trichur, 78 kms north of Cochin on National Highway 47 lies at the base of a hillock, crowned by the famous Vadkkumnathan (Shiva) temple. This former capital of Cochin state was captured by Zamorin and later by Tipu Sultan in the second half of the 18th Century. The famous pooram festival is celebrated at the Vadakkumnathan Temple every year during April-May. The Kerala Sahitya Academy and Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Academy are located in Trichur. The Vadakkumnathan Temple is a classic example of the Kerala Style of architecture. The temple contains the sacred shrines of Paramashiva, Parvathy, Sankaranayana, Ganapathi, Sri Rama and Sri Krishna.

Altitude: Sea level, Temperature: (deg C)-Summer- Max 35, Min 22.5, Winter- Max 32.3, Min 20., Rainfall: 254 cms., Best Season: October to March.

Places of Interest:

Vadakkumnathan Temple, Town Hall, Zoo, Aquarium, State Museum, Art Museum.

Excursions:

Guruvayoor- 32 kms, Cheruthuruthy- 29 kms, Peechi Dam- 23 kms, Tiruvilwamala Temple- 29 kms, Cranganore (Kodungallor)- 36 kms, Triprayar- 25 kms, Irinjalakuda- 21 kms, Kalady- 55 kms.

Reach -

By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin- 78 kms connected with Bangalore, Bombay, Delhi, Goa, Madras, Trivandrum.

By Rail: Directly connected with Bombay.

By Road: Cochin- 78 kms, Coimbatore- 114 kms, Kalady- 55 kms, Kanyakumari- 376 kms, Madras- 720 kms, Palghat- 67 kms, Palani- 229 kms, Rameswaram- 222 kms, Udhagamandalam (Ooty)- 202 kms.

Guruvayur

Guruvayur is one of the most sacred and important pilgrim centers of Kerala, attracting thousands of pilgrims from all parts of the Country. Its chief attraction is a temple dedicated to Lord Krishna known as 'Guruvayurappan'.Guruvayur, with its temple dedicated to Shri Krishna, is one of the most popular pilgrim centres of India. It is at this temple that Melpattur Narayana Bhattathiri composed his renowned Sanskrit devotional poem Narayaneeyam.

Altitude: Sea level, Temperature: (deg C)-Summer- Max 35, Min 22.5. Winter- Max 32.3, Min 20., Rainfall: 254 cms., Best Season: October to March.

Places of Interest:

Guruvayur Shree Krishna Temple and Punnathur Kotta.

Reach -

By Air: The nearest airport Cochin- 100 kms, is connected with Bangalore, Bombay, Delhi, Goa, Madras, Trivandrum.

By Rail: Nearest rail head is Trichur- 29 kms.

By Road: Cochin-100 kms, Coimbatore-142 kms, Trichur- 29 kms, Kalady- 65 kms, Palghat- 95 kms, Malampuzha- 109 kms, Palani- 247 kms, Trivandrum- 294 kms, Ootacamund- 230 kms.

How to plan your holidays:

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