Kerala Destination - Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Location: About 32 km from Thiruvananthapuram.

A repository of some of the rarest medicinal herbs, the Neyyar Dam is a popular picnic spot with a lake and a picturesque dam site. The lake formed by the dam across the Neyyar River is the bluest of blue, making boating irresistible for tourists.

The Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary of which the dam is a part is the habitat of over a hundred rare species of fauna including elephants, wild buffaloes, wild boar, porcupines, tigers and a variety of snakes. A crocodile breeding centre and a lion safari park are also located in the dam site.

Getting there: There is a motorable road to the dam site which is well connected by regular bus services from Thiruvananthapuram city.

Nearest railway station: Thiruvananthapuram, about 32 km away.
Nearest airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, about 38 km.

Kerala Destination - Nelliyampathy

Nelliyampathy

From the town of Nenmara in Palakkad district, the cloud-caressed peaks of the majestic Nelliyampathy hill ranges are a sight to behold. The height of the hills ranges from 467 m to 1572 m. To reach Nelliyampathy, one has to take the road starting from Nenmara that proceeds to the Pothundy Dam. There are about 10 hairpin bends that have to be negotiated on the way to Nelliyampathy.

The Pothundy Dam is a picturesque locale with facilities for boating and is a nice option as a picnic place. As the Ghat road winds its way up to Nelliyampathy, at certain places there are viewpoints from where the vast stretches of Palakkad district are visible with its extensive paddy fields forming a verdant carpet. It also offers a splendid view of the Palakkad Gap, which is a geographical phenomenon in the Western Ghats formation in this region, bringing into view, parts of the adjoining State of Tamilnadu.

On the way up, those interested in bio farming can take a close look at the privately managed farms and also vast expanses of tea estates managed by different plantation companies. The hills of Nelliyampathy are also well known for its orange cultivation.

Privately owned hotels and resorts are located at various points, as one goes up the hills of Nelliyampathy. The bio-farms located here are a major landmark as one proceeds up before reaching the topmost point at Palagapandi estate. The estate has a quaint bungalow, built during the period of the British rule in India, and has now been converted into a private owned resort. At Kaikatty, a community hall is available, which is usually used as a base by those interested in trekking.

Not far away from Palagapandy is Seethakundu where one can have a fantastic valley view, and a 100 m high waterfall providing an added attraction. From Palagapandy, one can trek or go by jeep to reach Mampara; another breathtaking vantage point at Nelliyampathy. The area in and around Palagapandy estate has tea, cardamom and coffee plantations with adjoining hills allowing one to catch a glimpse of the wildlife in the form of Indian gaur, elephants, leopards, giant squirrel etc. and is also a paradise for birdwatchers.

Getting there:
Nearest railway station: Palakkad, about 52 km from Nelliyampathy.
Nearest airport: Coimbatore, about 55 km from Palakkad.

Kerala Destination - Neelimala

Neelimala

Some of the beautiful things in life come with a price tag. And this month we take you to witness and savour one of Kerala's immaculate sights in the hill district of Wayanad. Of course, it is a bit challenging for your legs. And the best time to be there is just after the rains in June / July. By now, you might have got a hang of what is in store? Yes, it has something to do with water. It is just not water, but a milky way, tearing apart the dense greenery of Wayanad forests. The Meenmutti waterfalls, gushing down and then flowing in cascades further down its course is an awesome sight to watch from the Neelimala viewpoint near Vaduvanchal in Wayanad.

Reach Chundale before Kalpetta in Wayanad District and take the Ootty road to the right that goes via Meppadi and on reaching Vaduvanchal turn right. It is best to hire a four wheeler form here to reach Neelimala view point. After three kilomteres drive from Vaduvanchal, the road turns to the right and climbs up a rugged road to reach the base of a tribal settlement, surrounded by coffee plantation and pepper vines. Get down, pick your backpack, put on your trekking shoes and of course keep a good camera.

On the way up to the Neelimala viewpoint, one would have the company of the coffee plantations on either side and further up, small holdings of ginger and areca nut. The sides of the path leading to the view point is also dotted with small bushes of purple flower plants and also chirping sun birds and other varieties of small birds darting in and out of the bushes.

Completing the first part of the ascend, which is about half a kilometer, the trekking path gets narrower and goes down before it climbs up again. Now the vegetation on the sides changes to tall, wild grass, including the lemon grass variety. The narrow path goes further up and suddenly opens up into a panoramic view, with the mountain folds of the Western Ghats on your left and a hill slope replete with grass and studded with boulders on the right. You have reached the Neelimala view point.

Have a brief stop. Catch your breath. Feel the cool breeze in your hair, as it dries out the sweat. Take a look around to spot some butterflies with rare colour and size, gliding down the slopes and sometimes going behind the mist. As you remain there, your ears slowly get receptive to a rumble down the valley. If you hear it, take the narrow path going down to the left. Make your way through tall grasses leaning on to you. Move gently and watch out for slippery rocks and pits. Meandering to the left, the path would lead you to a spot, where you would find yourself standing behind a rocky spur with the rumbling noise becoming intense manifold.

Carefully make your descend down and move towards the middle of the rocky spur. It would take some time for you to believe the mesmerizing sight that is right before you. Down flows a track of white water, flanked by evergreen forests. A sight you would never forget. Get your best shots and take in its pristine beauty as much as you can. As you watch the unforgettable sight of Meenmutti waterfall, an occasional blanket of thick mist could block your sight. But, do not get upset. Wait for some time and as the mist clears out, and on occasions the sheet of mist would split open to reveal the waterfall, which is yet another delightful thing to watch.

Getting there:
Nearest railway station: Kozhikode, about 80 km from Vaduvanchal.
Nearest airport: Karipur International Airport, about 95 km from Vaduvanchal.

Kerala Destination - Natural History Museum

Natural History Museum

(Open 1000 - 1700 hrs, Wednesday 1300 - 1645 hrs. Closed on Mondays) This modern building houses some excellent galleries like the skeletal, bird, animal and taxidermy gallery as well as a museum.

Entrance fee: Adults: Rs. 5 Children between 5 - 12 yrs: Rs. 4. Photography not allowed. Ph: 2318294

Kerala Destination - Napier Museum & Art Gallery

Napier Museum & Art Gallery

Location: Both Museum and Art Gallery are situated in the Napier Museum compound, right in the heart of the city, near the zoological park.

Visiting Hours: Open 1000 - 1645 hrs. Closed on Mondays, Wednesday forenoons, Jaunary 26th, August 15th, Thiruvonam and Mahanavami.

Built in the 19th century, this Indo-Saracenic structure boasts a natural air-conditioning system and houses a rare collection of archaeological and historic artefacts, bronze idols, ancient ornaments, a temple chariot and ivory carvings. The use of plastic is banned in the museum premises.

A visit to the Napier Museum complex reveals a glimpse of Kerala's rich cultural heritage. An exceptional piece of architecture, the Museum is named after the former Madras Governor General, John Napier. The Napier Museum is also called the Government Art Museum. The Museum building is a combination of the Kerala, Mughal, Chinese and Italian architectural styles. The Sree Chitra Art Gallery here features a rare collection of paintings by Raja Ravi Varma and Roerich among others, and fascinating works from the Mughal, Rajput and Tanjore schools of art. An oriental collection consisting of paintings from China, Japan, Tibet and Bali offers a visual treat and are a tribute to the art and culture of these countries.

Getting there:
Nearest railway station: Thiruvananthapuram Central, about 2 km.
Nearest airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, about 6 km from the city.

Kerala Destination - Muzhapilangad Beach

Muzhapilangad

Location: About 15 km from Kannur and 8 km from Thalasseri, Kannur district, North Kerala.

The Muzhapilangad beach which stretches across four kilometres of sand is a drive-in-beach where one can drive down the entire length. Calm and serene, the place is secluded and remains unexplored. Huge black rocks scattered here protect this long beach from the deep currents, and form a tranquil pool of shallow waters that is a swimmer's paradise. The palm groves fringing the beach are a cool hideaway from the tropical sun.

Getting there: Muzhapilangad beach is just a kilometre to the West of National Highway 17.

Nearest railway station: Kannur, an important railhead of Southern Railway.
Nearest airport: Kozhikode International Airport, about 93 km from Kannur town.

Kerala Destination - Museum of Kerala History

Museum of Kerala History

One picture can say what a thousand words cannot!

That being the case, without further ado, we recommend that you pay a visit to The Museum of Kerala History in Edapally, Kochi. And once you are on the lush grounds of the museum, head straight to the MNF Gallery of Paintings and Sculptures and the Centre for Visual Arts. The unassuming gallery houses immortal creations that will give you glimpses of the glorious history and rich cultural legacy of this land. Some of the masters whose works are on display include mural maestro Mammiyoor Krishhan Kutty Nair, Raja Ravi Varma, M. F. Hussain, folk painter Jamini Roy, abstract painter Manu Parekh and so on.

Open from 10 am to 5 pm on all days except Mondays and public holidays.

Getting there:

By road: At Edapally, 10 km North of Ernakulam city on NH 47.

Kerala Destination - Munnar

Munnar

Munnar, one of the most popular hill stations in India is situated at the confluence of three mountain streams - Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala. Located at 1600 m above sea level, this was once the summer resort of the erstwhile British Government in South India. Sprawling tea plantations, picture book towns, winding lanes, trekking and holiday facilities make Munnar a unique experience.

Anayirangal (22 km from Munnar)
It's a lush green carpet of tea plants. A trip on the splendid reservoir is an unforgettable experience. Anayirangal dam is surrounded by Tata Tea plantations and evergreen forests. It is an ideal picnic spot.

Top Station (32 km from Munnar)
1700 m above sea level, this is the highest point on the Munnar-Kodaikanal road. The rare Neelakurunji (Strobilanthus) belongs to this region. Top Station also offers a panoramic view of the neighbouring state of Tamil Nadu.

Getting there:

Nearest airport: Madurai (Tamil Nadu), about 140 km away; Cochin International Airport, about 190 km away.

Nearest railway station: Theni (Tamil Nadu), about 60 km away; Changanacherry, about 93 km away.

Kerala Destination - Mattupetty

Mattupetty

(13 km from Munnar): Situated at a height of 1700 m, Mattupetty is known for its highly specialised dairy farm - the Indo Swiss Livestock Project. Several varieties of high yielding cattle are reared here.

Visitors are allowed into 3 of the 11 cattle sheds at the farm.
Visit time: 0900 - 1100 hrs and 1400 - 1530 hrs. Rate Rs. 5/- per head. Ph: 530389.

The Mattupetty 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, slow speedboat and motorboats are available on hire.
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.

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Kerala Destination - Mattancherry Synagogue

Mattancherry Synagogue

Location: The Synagogue at Fort Kochi, about 10 km from Ernakulam town, Central Kerala.
Opening hours: 1000 - 1700 hrs; closed on Fridays.

The synagogue at Fort Kochi, constructed in 1568, is the oldest in the Commonwealth. Destroyed in a shelling during the Portuguese raid in 1662, it was rebuilt two years later by the Dutch.

Mid-18th century hand-painted, willow patterned floor tiles from Canton in China, a clock tower, Hebrew inscriptions on stone slabs, great scrolls of the Old Testament, ancient scripts on copper plates in which the grants of privilege made by the erstwhile Cochin rulers were recorded etc., are articles of interest here.

The area around the synagogue is a centre of spice trade and curio shops.

Getting there:

Nearest railway station: Ernakulam, about 10 km from the synagogue.
Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, about 30 km from the synagogue.

Kerala Destination - Mattancherry Palace

Mattancherry Palace

Location: Mattancherry, 10 km from Ernakulam.

Visiting hours: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm on all days except Fridays.

Built by the Portuguese in 1557 and presented to Raja Veera Kerala Varma of Kochi, the Palace was renovated in 1663 by the Dutch. The palace with a Bhagavathi Temple in the central courtyard is built like the typical Kerala style mansion - the Nalukettu - the home of the aristocracy, nobility and upper classes, with four separate wings opening out to a central courtyard.

The double storeyed palace building which stands by the panoramic Kochi backwaters has an exquisite collection of murals collectively covering over 300 sq ft of its walls. The themes of these murals have been borrowed from the great Indian epics - the Ramayana and the Mahabharatha, and mythology and legends about the Hindu gods especially Guruvayurappan. Some murals depict scenes from Kumarasambhavam and other works of the great Sanskrit poet Kalidasa. Also on display are royal paraphernalia like weapons, swings and furniture which offer a glimpse of the lifestyle of the royal family.

Getting there: There are frequent bus and boat services to Mattancherry. The boats start from main Boat Jetty near Subash Park at Ernakulam town.

Nearest railway station: Ernakulam, about 10 km

Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, about 20 km from Ernakulam town.

Kerala Destination - Matha Amrithanandamayi Ashram

Matha Amrithanandamayi Ashram, Vallikavu

The residence and headquarters of Matha Amrithanandamayi Devi, is situated at Amrithapuri near Vallikavu. The ashram is accessible both by road and boat.
Ph: 0476-2897578

Kerala Destination - Maritime Museum

Maritime Museum

India is reckoned as one of the top ten naval powers in the world and owes its credit to the dedication and selfless services rendered by the brave men of India's formidable naval force.

It is of significance for civilians to understand the value of existence of such a force, which plays a crucial role in safeguarding territorial waters of India. The Maritime Museum, located at INS Dronacharya in Kochi throws light on the genesis, history, evolution and landmarks of the Indian Navy.

Step into the Maritime Museum to have a feel of the great maritime heritage of Indian Navy, which dates back to Indus Valley civilizations; Kerala's trade links with Arabs, its famous maritime hero Kunjali Marakkar; Influence of India's maritime power in South East Asia; Colonization of Indian sub-continent by European powers.

At the museum, the visitors are enlightened on the evolution of the navy since 1612, when the Indian Marine was established in Surat.

A section of the museum presents interesting aspects of shipbuilding activities in India. It unravels India's prowess in shipbuilding, which took its culture to the shores of Java, Sumatra and Bali between 3rd century BC and 12th century AD.

The museum also has a section, which highlights Indian Navy's share of glory, when it took on its aggressors and eventually emerged victorious in the end. These include details of Junaghad operation, the Goa liberation, Indo-Pak conflicts of 1965 and 1971, Operation Cactus, Operation Pawan and the strategic maneuvers during Kargil.

Visiting time: 9:30 am to 1.00 pm and 2.00 pm to 6.00 pm

Getting there: The Museum is located on the beach road about 1 km South of St.Francis Church in Fort Kochi.

Nearest railway station: Ernakulam, about 15 km.

Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, about 20 km from Ernakulam City.

Kerala Destination - Margi

Margi

Location: Less than 2 km from the Thiruvananthapuram railway station.
Visiting hours: Friday evening.

Attraction: Performances of Kathakali and other art forms of Kerala in an ethnic atmosphere. Here one can also watch Kathakali artistes in the process of making up their face.

Margi is one of the ideal destinations for art lovers. One can watch the performance of some of the major art forms of Kerala like Kootiyattam, Nangyarkoothu, Chakyarkoothu, Paatakom (all temple art forms) and Kathakali in an ethnic atmosphere. Nangyarkoothu, Chakkiarkoothu are female and male (respectively) versions of the satiric solo. Margi has its activities at two places in Thiruvananthapuram, the first at Valiyasala (Margi - Valiyasala) where Kootiyattam, Nangyarkoothu, Chakyarkoothu and Paatakom are performed and aspiring artists trained. The other near East Fort (Margi - Fort) which is devoted exclusively to Kathakali. The institution was founded in 1970 by noted theatre enthusiast of the time the late D.Appukuttan Nair. He was also the architect of the Koothambalam at Kalamandalam at Cheruthuruthy in Kerala and Rukmini Arundale's dance school complex at Adayar in Chennai, the capital of the neigbhouring state of Tamilnadu.

Kerala Destination - Marayoor

Marayoor

(40 km 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 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 Waterfall and Rajiv Gandhi National Park are also nearby.

Marayoor occupies a vast area on the slopes of the Western Ghats in Idukki district and is an important pre-historic site in Kerala. Apart from the Dolmenoid cists (Dolmenoids were burial chambers made of four stones placed on edges and covered by a fifth one called the cap stone) in Muniyara, Marayoor is famous for its natural sandalwood forests and pre-historic rock paintings.

Getting there :
Nearest railway station : Ernakulam about 130 km
Nearest airport : Cochin International Airport about 110 km

Kerala Destination - Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple

Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple

(32 km South of Alappuzha) Situated near Harippad, this is a serpent shrine under the patronage of a brahmin family, headed by a priestess. The ancient shrine is an internationally renowned pilgrim centre dedicated to the Serpent God - Nagaraja. Sarpa Yakshi and Naga Yakshi are the beloved consorts of Nagaraja. It is believed that Nagaraja as the installed diety is endowed with the form of Hari (Lord Vishnu) and the spirit of Lord Shiva.

Legend has it that the first priestess of Mannarasala gave birth to a five-headed snake, which is believed to reside in the ancestral house to safeguard the family. At Mannarasala barren women are believed to be blessed with children and a special turmeric paste available at the shrine is credited with powers to cure even leprosy.

Kerala Destination - Malayattoor Church

Malayattoor Church

Situated about 47 km from Kochi, Malayattoor is famous for the Catholic Church, located on top of the Malayattoor hill, at a height of 609 m. Dedicated to St. Thomas the apostle of Jesus Christ, thousands of pilgrims gather here for the annual festival of 'Malayatoor Perunnal', held during the months of March /April.

Sailing in an Arab merchant vessel, St. Thomas is believed to have landed at Kodungalloor port in Kerala, in AD 52. It is believed that St. Thomas took the initiative for establishing a Christian community at Malayattoor. In his journey through the length and breadth of the land, St. Thomas founded churches in Kodungalloor, Quilon, Niranam, Nilakkal, Kokkamangalam, Kottakavu and Paalayoor.

Blessed by natural bounties Malayattoor offers ideal environs for those seeking spiritual happiness. Nowadays, the hill shrine at Malayattoor has emerged as the largest pilgrim centre in the name of St. Thomas in India. Here, the big and auspicious occasion is the feast of St. Thomas, which is observed on the first Sunday after Easter, when thousands throng the shrine for his blessings.

Those interested in the architecture of the church would find it highly interesting. It has a combination of Greco-Roman architecture with the altar designed in traditional Greek style, and the front portion of the church following the traditional Roman Catholic Church architecture. Behind the central altar, one can find the carvings, designs and paintings, which include the five joyful mysteries of Jesus Christ. The church has separate facilities for confession and adoration. The ancient baptismal pond and the traditional pulpit are of historical relevance.

From the hill side, one can watch the soothing sight of the smooth flowing Periyar river, which itself would make the minds of pilgrims calm and serene. The church provides facilities for bathing in the river. According to a custom observed here, pilgrims shave their hair and beard before bathing in the river

Devotees arriving at the shrine make several types of offerings. Some climb the hill carrying cross in their shoulders; women folk would carry long brooms with them with prayers for prosperity. Some pilgrims carry stones on their heads, an offering that is meant to remove burdens from their lives. There are various religious rituals in the parish church and at the top of the mount. Some of the services include high mass, ordinary mass, Novena, Adima, Vedi Litany etc.

Places to visit at St. Thomas Mount:-
Besides the main shrine, visitors to Malayattoor can also find interesting sites in and around the hill top.

Marthoma Mandapam
A very elegant and attractive building with a blend of Greco-Indian architecture, it is here that the precious relics of St. Thomas are preserved. Located at the peak of the mount, the building is erected in such a way that the relic is placed twenty steps above the ground, symbolically representing the twenty years of St Thomas's missionary works in south India.

Sannidhi
Among the structures on top of Malayattoor hill, this one has modern architectural touch, and is situated at the Northern most part of the mount. Here, the main attraction is the Piyatha sculpture moulded at the top of the chapel. The Sannidhi is the most spacious place for worship on the mount.

Golden Cross
Kurishumudi is where one can find the Golden Cross believed to have formed when St. Thomas knelt on a rock and signed a cross with his finger. He remained there praying for a long time, and ultimately a golden cross appeared on the spot.

Footprints of St Thomas
One of the most curious sights at the mountain is the permanent footprint and the marks of knees of St. Thomas imprinted on the rock.

The ancient chapel struck by the elephants
An ancient chapel at Kurishumudi, it was attacked by tuskers in the past when it used to be surrounded by thick jungle. Deep tusk marks can still be found on the back wall of the chapel.

The miraculous water spring
A well, situated near the ancient chapel at the top of the mount is believed to be the spot from where St. Thomas quenched his thirst during his time of prayer. Feeling thirsty, he struck the rock from which fresh water started flowing. Pilgrims consider the water in the well to possess divine power to heal ailments.

With its recent recognition by Vatican as an international pilgrim centre, this famous shrine at Malayattoor dedicated to St. Thomas would be extending its healing touch and spiritual bliss to more visitors and for those who come to enjoy its serenity.

Getting there:
Nearest railway station: Angamaly, about 17 km from Malayattoor.
Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, at Nedumbassery, about 15 km from Malayattoor.

Address:
Administrative Office
Malayattoor Kurusumudy Adivaram, Malayattoor- 683 587
Ph: 91-484-2469008, E-mail: mkurusumudy@vsnl.net

Kerala Destination - Malayala Kalagramam

Malayala Kalagramam

Location : New Mahe, 29 km from Kannur town, North Kerala.

Malayala Kalagramam (MAKAM) is a centre for art and ideas which aims at providing children and youngsters a Kalari (stage) to practise and perform all forms of fine arts. The centre offers part time as well as full time courses in painting, sculpture, music and dance and art pottery.

Yoga and Sanskrit are also taught here. The fraternity centre of the Kalagramam conducts seminars, symposia, extension lectures, in-service programmes and special projects in different fields of art and humanities.

The studies help to familiarise the trainees with classical and contemporary trends and techniques in the respective fields of art, to teach them art application and history of art and to enable them to utilise art better in their daily life.
Spending a day here with the tutors, students and the exotic library is an enlightening experience for any art lover.

Getting there :

Nearest railway station: Mahe
Nearest airport: Karipur International Airport, Kozhikode, about 64 km South

Kunhimangalam:
This place in Payyanur is famous for its unique bronze lamps and sculptures

Kerala Destination - Malampuzha Dam

Malampuzha Dam

Location: 10 km from Palakkad town, North Kerala.
Attractions: Dam, amusement park, boating facilities, rock garden and ropeway.

Malampuzha, a little township on the foothills of the Western Ghats takes its name from the River Malampuzha. Nurtured by this tributary of Kerala's longest river, the Bharathappuzha, Malampuzha is a lush green town is a major tourist attraction for its trekking trails and the large irrigation dam.

Around the reservoir of the dam are beautiful gardens and amusement parks. Boating facilities are available on the lake. Other attractions in the Malampuzha garden are the beautiful rock garden, the fish-shaped aquarium, the snake park, the ropeway which takes you on an aerial tour of the park, and the gigantic Yakshi (an enchantress) sculptured by Kanai Kunhiraman, a renowned sculptor of Kerala.

The most interesting feature of the rock garden is that the whole place is made of unwanted and broken pieces of bangles, tiles, used plastic cans, tins and other waste materials. The garden is a master work of sculptor Padmasree Neck Chand Saini. His rock garden in Chandigarh is world famous and attracts thousands of tourists every year.

Getting there:

Nearest railway station: Palakkad.
Nearest airport: Coimbatore, about 55 km from Palakkad town

Kerala Destination - Mahadevar Temple, Ettumanoor

Mahadevar Temple, Ettumanoor

(12 km North of Kottayam) This temple is famous for its murals, especially the painting of Nataraja in the gopuram and ezharaponnana (the seven-and-a-half elephants finished in gold). Festival: Ezharaponnana ezhunallathu (10 days in February/March)

Kerala Destination - Kuttanad

Kuttanad

It is the major rice granary of Kerala, where vast stretches of verdant paddy fields are interlaced with enchanting backwaters create some of the unforgettable sights.

Kuttanad, the rice bowl of Kerala is all about an agrarian community, striking a chord of harmony with its physical setting. Noted for its farming below sea level (about 4 to 10 feet) the land of Kuttanad possesses a socio-cultural fabric of its own. Four major rivers in Kerala viz. Pampa, Meenachil, Achankovil and Manimala flow into the region.

Kuttanad can be accessed from places on the National Highway- 47 from Harippad to Alappuzha town in the District of Alappuzha, and from places like Thiruvalla and Changanasserry on the Main Central (MC) Road going through the District of Kottayam.

The most popular route taken to get close and explore Kuttanad is the Alappuzha-Changanasserry road. This road goes through the heart of Kuttanad and gives visitors plenty of options to watch the day-to-day life at Kuttanad. The best thing for a visitor to Kuttanad is that, one can take deviations from either side of the Alappuzha-Chanaganasserry road to reach villages, predominantly consisting of farmers. During the harvest season the vast expanse of paddy fields, at some places dotted with islets of coconut trees, will be busy with farmers engrossed in different farming activities;done in the traditional manner. Quite early in the morning itself one can sight the women folk heading towards the paddy fields carrying their lunch box and sickle, and on the other hand men could be seen already on the fields till the land, sowing the seeds, getting rid of weeds, diverting water channels etc.

The Kuttanad area is also rich in avian population, and one can easily find flocks of parrots hovering in the paddy fields, especially those fields with rice stalks in bloom. You may also come across a black blanket sweeping across the sky, which on close look will reveal as yet another flock of birds. And this time its is the darter birds, which haunt the backwaters in and around Kuttanad and the adjoining Vembanad Lake.

As you explore the villages, don't forget to take a walk by the numerous canals that crisscross Kuttanad, which are lined by tall coconut trees swaying in the breeze. During most part of the day, these canal stretches would be abuzz with different activities. There will be vendors on boat selling vegetables, grocery and fish to households on the banks of these canals. You would also come across big country boats called Kettu Vallams on which goods like coconut husk, rice grains etc. are transported to nearby markets in bulk. Among the sights on the backwaters here at Kuttanad, the most fascinating obviously is that of the ducks, quacking together in high decibels and moving across the backwaters in large numbers;shepherded by men on small boats. One can also catch men plying on the backwater;some diving down to collect lime shells from the depths and others fishing with their nets and traditional cane basket called Ottal.

For those interested in trying out few local dishes may do so by dropping at the small traditionally built wayside eateries, which are quite famous for backwater fish delicacies and tapioca. A popular naturally extracted beverage is the toddy, which is available in plenty and enjoyed by many for its speciality.

You may also find Kuttanad, a bit more exciting, if you hire a boat. You can hire motorboats, houseboats etc. from the boat jetty operated by the government as well as private groups near the KSRTC Bus Station at Alappuzha or else may get on one from places like Kidangara, which is on the Alappuzha-Changanasserry road. Some of the places worth visiting in the Kuttanad area are Nedumudy, Kaavalam, Champakkulam etc.

Getting there:

Nearest railway station: Alappuzha.
Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, Nedumbassery, about 85 km from Alappuzha.

Kerala Destination - Kumbalangi

Kumbalangi

Kumbalangi Integrated Tourism Village project is a unique initiative to transform the tiny island as a model fishing village and tourism spot. Here at the Kumbalangi Tourism Village one can fully savour a variety of natural splendours, and ecological balance of the location. The model village, the first of its kind in the country is located near the port city of Kochi in Ernakulam District. It is a veritable treat to its visitors with the famous Chinese fishing nets and many other sights to savour.

As art of the model village project at Kumbalangi, a nearby island near Palluruthy would also have plenty of interesting vistas and activities in the near future. This coastal hamlet without doubt provides a fascinating glimpse of the simple and prosperous livelihood of the villagers, and also unravels the age-old culture and heritage of the place.

Getting there:

Nearest railway station: Ernakulam Junction, about 25 km away.
Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, about 40 km away.

Kerala Destination - Kuthiramalika Palace

Kuthiramalika Palace

Location: Adjacent to Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple at East Fort in Thiruvananthapuram.

Visiting hours: (Open 0830 - 1300 hrs, 1500 - 1730 hrs. Closed on Mondays)

The palace was built by Maharaja Swathi Thirunal Balarama Varma - the King of Travancore, who was a great poet, musician, social reformer and statesman. This rare specimen of workmanship in the traditional Travancore style of architecture has exquisite wood carvings. The palace museum displays paintings and various priceless collections of the royal family and is located near the Padmanabha Swamy Temple.

Entrance fee: Adults: Rs. 10, Children: Rs. 3, Foreigners: Rs. 20, Camera permit (outside): Rs. 15, Video: Rs. 500.

Getting there:

Nearest railway station: Thiruvananthapuram Central, about 1 km.
Nearest airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, about 6 km.

Kerala Destination - Kumarakom

Kumarakom

Location: 16 km away from Kottayam town, Central Kerala.
Tourist season: Between June and August.

The village of Kumarakom is a cluster of little islands on the Vembanad Lake, and is part of the Kuttanad region. The bird sanctuary here, which is spread across 14 acres is a favourite haunt of migratory birds and an ornithologist's paradise. Egrets, darters, herons, teals, waterfowls, cuckoo, wild duck and migratory birds like the Siberian Stork visit here in flocks and are a fascinate the visitors. The best way to watch the birds of the Kumarakom Sanctuary is a boat trip round the islands. An enchanting backwater destination, Kumarakom offers visitors many other leisure options. Boating and fishing facilities are available at the Taj Garden Retreat, a sprawling old bungalow-turned-resort. Waterscapes, the backwater resort of the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation has independent cottages built on stills, set amidst coconut groves and panoramic view of the backwaters. Holiday packages involving houseboats, traditional Kettuvalloms (rice barges) offer great experiences.

Getting there:

Nearest railway station: Kottayam, about 16 km.
Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, about 76 km from Kottayam town.

Kerala Destination - Krishnapuram Palace

Krishnapuram Palace

Location : Kayamkulam, 47 km from Alappuzha.

Visiting hours: 9.00 am to 5.00 pm on all days except Mondays

The Krishnapuram Palace is a rare specimen of the Kerala style of architecture, complete with gabled roofs, narrow corridors and dormer windows. Residence of the rulers of Kayamkulam Kingdom, the age of the palace is unknown.

Renovated some time in the 18th century, the palace is today a protected monument under the Archaeology Department. Recently it has been again renovated according to the scientific techniques prescribed for the protection of heritage buildings.

Today the palace is an archaeological museum, and the most fascinating exhibit here is the 49 sq.m - Gajendra Moksham - the largest single band of mural painting so far discovered in Kerala. Literally, the salvation (Moksha) of the elephant king (Gajendra), the theme of the mural is mythological and depicts an elephant saluting Lord Vishnu in devotion while the other gods, goddesses and saints look on. It is said that Lord Vishnu was the family deity of the Kayamkulam rajas. This mural was placed at the entrance to the palace from the pond to enable the rajas to worship the deity after their bath.

Other attractions here are the beautifully landscaped garden in the palace compound where you have a variety of flora typical of Kerala, and a newly erected Buddha mandapam, where a recently recovered statue of the Buddha is housed. Other collections at the museum include rare antique bronze sculptures and paintings.

Getting there:

Nearest railway station: Kollam about 39 km.
Nearest airports: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, about 103 km; Cochin International Airport, about 132 km.

Kerala Destination - Koyikkal Palace

Koyikkal Palace

Location: Nedumangad, about 18 km from Thiruvananthapuram City on the way to the Ponmudi hill station and the Courtalam waterfalls, Thiruvananthapuram district, South Kerala.
Attractions: Palace, folklore museum and numismatics museum.
Visiting hours: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm on all days, except Mondays.

The Koyikkal Palace, situated far of away from the city, was actually built for Umayamma Rani of the Venad Royal Family who ruled the land between 1677 and 1684. The palace is a double stroreyed traditional nalukettu with slanting gabled roofs and an inner courtyard.

Today, the palace houses a Folklore Museum and a Numismatics Museum set up by the Department of Archaeology. The Folklore Museum, a treasure house of quaint musical instruments, occupational implements, household utensils, models of folk arts etc., was set up in 1992. The exhibits here draw attention to the rich cultural background of Kerala. The exhibits include rare articles like Chandravalayam (not found in any other such museum in Kerala), a small percussion instrument used as an accompaniment while reciting the ballad Ramakathappattu (the story of Lord Sree Rama); and Nanthuni , a sweet sounding musical instrument made of wood and string used while singing the Onappattu and Nanthunippattu during Onam the harvest festival of Kerala.

The Folklore Museum housed on the first floor of the palace also has a wide range of household utensils including wooden kitchenware, brass/copperware etc. representing the lifestyle of the Keralites during different periods. Thaliyola (old manuscripts), Chilambu (a sort of anklet) used by Umayamma Rani and Maravuri (dress material made of the bark of trees) etc. are well preserved here. Oorakkudukku a device for intellectual exercise used by the Yogis as a pastime, Gajalekshmi - a lamp representing the Goddess of prosperity - Lakshmi, seated on her elephant (this lamp is usually lighted at dusk and during the harvest season to welcome the goddess) are other interesting exhibits. The Kettuvillakku - a ceremonial lamp (artistically made out of coloured paper and locally available light wood splits/rails), lit during festivals at the Bhagavathy temples of Southern Kerala; a model of the most impressive of Theyyams - the Muthappan theyyam, a Patayani kolam model; the headgear and dress used by Ottanthulal artistes exhibited here give an insight into the performing as well as the ritual art forms of Kerala.

The Numismatics Museum at the Koyikkal Palace is the only one of its kind in the State. Occupying the ground floor of the palace, the coins displayed here belong to different parts of the world as well as to different periods. This rare and historically valuable collection is a vestige of the trade relation of Kerala in the bygone ages. Among the exhibits are some of the oldest coins of Kerala - Ottaputhen, Erattaputhen, Kaliyugarayan Panam etc. A Venetian coin named Amaida, believed to have been presented to Jesus Christ, is also a property of this museum. The most valuable among the Indian coins found here are Karsha. These are nearly 2500 years old. Rasi, the world's smallest coins are also on display here. Sreekrishna Rasi, one of the rasis (regional coins) issued by the local kings of Kerala around the 10th century, Anantharayan Panam - the first modern gold coin of Travancore in circulation in the 15th and 17th centuries, Kochi Puthen - one of the coins of the Kochi Kingdom which also had variations like Indo-Dutch Puthen (1782 AD). Lekshmi Varaham - the silver coins minted in Travancore, Rasi Palaka (the coin board) - a wooden board with small niches used to count small coins (counting up to 100 to 200 at a time), coin mints etc. are preserved here. Nearly 374 Roman gold coins, each worth up to five hundred thousand rupees today, depicting Roman Gods and Goddesses like Venus, Hercules, Mars, Ceres, Genius, etc. and rulers like Hardin (AD 117 - 138) are also among the collection. The museum also has coins used by various Indian dynasties - the Gwalior royal family, the Nizam of Hyderabad, Tipu Sultan, Hyder Ali, etc.

Kerala Destination - Kovalam Beach

Kovalam Beach

Location: Just 16 km from Thiruvananthapuram city, South Kerala.
Best time to visit: September to March, though it is an all year-round destination.

Kovalam is an internationally renowned beach with three adjacent crescent beaches. It has been a favourite haunt of tourists, especially Europeans, since the 1930s. A massive rocky promontory on the beach has created a beautiful bay of calm waters ideal for sea bathing.

The leisure options at this beach are plenty and diverse. Sunbathing, swimming, herbal body toning massages, special cultural programmes and catamaran cruising are some of them. The tropical sun acts so fast that one can see the faint blush of coppery tan on the skin in a matter of minutes. Life on the beach begins late in the day and carries on well into the night. The beach complex includes a string of budget cottages, Ayurvedic health resorts, convention facilities, shopping zones, swimming pools, Yoga and Ayurvedic massage centres. Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala, is just 16 km away from Kovalam and getting there is no hassle. But if you are on holiday it is better to stay in Kovalam and visit the city. Thiruvananthapuram has interesting places to see like the Napier Museum, the Sri Chitra Art Gallery, the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Ponmudi hill station etc. SMSM Institute, a State owned handicrafts emporium, is the ideal place to pick up ethnic curios and other articles.

To know more about the crafts on sale here see Treasure Chest from the Archives dated 14 January '99 to 15 July '99.

Getting there:

Nearest railway station: Thiruvananthapuram Central, about 16 km.
Nearest airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, about 10 km.

Kerala Destination - Konni Training Centre for Elephants

Konni Training Centre for Elephants

Konni is a popular training centre for elephants in Kerala. Located in the district of Pathanamthitta, it is a major centre of tourist attraction in Kerala, and attracts visitors in large numbers throughout the year.

Situated about 11 km from Pathanamthitta, the main attraction at the elephant-training centre at Konni is the huge cages built of wood to house elephants. This massive wooden cage is locally known as Aanakoodu and can accommodate three to four elephants at a time.

The chief task of the trainers here at Konni is to train baby elephants, which are brought to the training centre after getting separated from its herd, or found wounded and roaming lonely in the forest. Experienced trainers, who employ some of the time-tested methods to tame the baby elephants, follow systematic training methodologies. Some of the training programmes besides making the elephants to obey commands include, daily exercises in the morning, which also include a walk in the premises, followed by bath and feeding of a special diet.

At Konni, visitors can get a close look at these trainee elephants and can observe and understand a lot about their behaviour, especially that of baby elephants, which are often mischievous and are focus of attention of majority of the visitors, especially children.

One can also find bigger elephants at the centre, and a ride on these majestic animals is an exciting one. The bigger elephants are also some times used for works inside the forest land adjoining the training centre.

It is obviously a training school with a difference; where size really doesn't matter.

Getting there:

Nearest Railway Station: Chengannur, about 28 km from Pathanamthitta.

Nearest Airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, about 119 km from Pathanamthitta.

Kerala Destination - Kodungalloor

Kodungalloor

The small country town of Kodungalloor is situated 35 km South of Thrissur. Kodungallur situated on the West coast, was once a great port of the Chera rulers of Tamilnadu. It was known by the Greek as the Muziris and is a place immersed in rich history. Kodungalloor is surrounded by backwaters and the sea is also famous as Cranganore and has an illustrious past. It is said to be the place where St. Thomas first preached Christianity in India.

Cheraman Juma Masjid: This mosque in Kodungalloor resembles a Hindu temple in appearance. It was earlier made of wood. Built in 629 A.D., this is the first mosque in India where Juma prayers were started. Recent changes have been made and it now has concrete minarets. The interiors remain wooden with a Kerala oil lamp right in the centre. This lamp is of great significance to people of all religions. Some of them bring oil for the lamp on the auspicious occasion of major family events.

Kodungalloor Bhagawati Temple: The Bhagawati Temple at Kodungallur is of great renown throughout Kerala. The Bharani festival at the Kodungallur Bhagawati Temple is one of the grandest in Kerala. It is a month of festivities from the Bharani asterism in the month of Aquarius to seven days after the Bharani asterism in the month of Pisces. During this occasion, one can also witness the largest congregation of oracles, not seen anywhere in Kerala.

The Bharani festival also witnesses the offering of worship to the deity in the innermost sanctum by those belonging to castes other than the priestly class. One day before the final Bharani, the Chandanapodi Chartal or the smearing of the image with sandal paste is carried out.

St.Thomas Church: Christ's apostle St Thomas is believed to have landed in Kodungalloor (formerly called Muziris) in 52 AD. The St.Thomas Church established by him houses ancient relics.

St. Thomas is portrayed in the gospels as a courageous and challenging personality. He had preached the gospel from Ethiopia to China. Many a church in West Asia considers him as the father of its faith. At Kodungalloor, he established the first Christian church in India and is the architect behind other Churches in Kerala: Kodungallur, Kottakkavu, Palayur, Kollam, Kokkamangalam, Niranam and Nilackal.

Other places of interest nearby Kodungalloor include Cheramanparambu, the ancient Thiruvanchikulam Temple, and the Portuguese Fort.

Getting there:

By road: You can reach Kodungallur from Thrissur's Shakthan Thampuran stand.
Nearest railway station: Irinjalakuda, about 20 km.
Nearest airport: Nedumbaserry International Airport at Kochi, about 60 km.

Kerala Destination - Kodanad

Kodanad

Location: Kodanad is about 30 km from Ernakulam town in the highranges on the southern bank of the River Periyar

Elephants are an integral part of Indian mythology and culture. In God's Own Country, elephants are often referred to as the sons of the 'Sahya' (the Western Ghats). Once a part of every day life in Kerala, elephants are the most ornamental and auspicious animals here. No festival or celebration is complete without an elephant procession. Rows of majestically caparisoned elephants, replete with colourful silken parasols form the most spectacular part of any event in Kerala.

Kodanad, set on the Southern banks of the Periyar River amid the beautiful high ranges near Perumbavoor, is one of the largest elephant training centres in Kerala. Earlier elephants captured from the Malayatoor forests (the forests in the East and North of Kodanad) were trained here. Since the introduction of a ban on elephant capture Kodanad has been reduced to a training centre. The famous Malayatoor Church is near Kodanad.

Muthanga of Wayanad district and Konni of Pathanamthitta district are two other elephant training centres in Kerala. Another attraction for elephant lovers is Punnathur Kotta, of the neighbouring Thrissur district, where some 40 elephants of the Guruvayoor Temple are groomed.

Getting there:

Nearest railway station: Ernakulam, about 30 km
Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, about 65 km

Kerala Destination - Kerala Kalamandalam

Kerala Kalamandalam

Location : Cheruthuruthy, 32 km north of Thrissur.

One of the most revered places for the traditional art forms of Kerala, the Kalamandalam is the cradle of Kathakali training in India. Besides a major centre for Kathakali training, Kalamandalam also imparts training in other performing art forms like Mohiniyattam, Koodiyattam, Thullal and Nangiarkoothu. Training in vocal and percussion instruments are also conducted here. Many of the internationally renowned artistes of Kerala and India have been trained here.

The Kalamandalam and its surroundings reflect the simple, pure and ethnic atmosphere in which these arts have survived for centuries. The Koothambalam - the traditional dance theatre at Kalamandalam is the only one in Kerala which is built outside a temple complex. This theatre is 14.62 m long and 7.31m wide and has four wooden pillars supporting it. It has three main parts - the aniyara (green room), the rangam (stage) - the space in front and side of it meant for the audience, and the mridanga-patha (where the drum is kept).

Kerala Kalamandalam was established by Vallathol Narayana Menon, the renowned Malayalam poet. It was a time when the popularity of Kathakali was on the wane. English education had been introduced and only a few upper class families in the state held the key to the art form. Realising the need to keep the art alive, the poet along with a few royal Kathakali enthusiasts like M. Mukundaraja and Kunjikuttan Thampuran, took over the revival and popularisation programme. They arranged performances by eminent artistes across the state and even raised funds through lotteries.

Over the years this unique institution has imparted training in Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, Kootiyattam, Panchavadyam, Thullal etc , following the ancient gurukula system of education.

For more details contact: Kerala Kalamandalam, Vallathol Nagar, Cheruthuruthy, Thrissur, Kerala - 679531, India. Phone: 91- 0488- 2462418.

Getting there:

Nearest railway station: Shornur, about 10 km.
Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, about 90 km.

Kerala Destination - Kayyoor, Bharananganam

Kayyoor, Bharananganam

An enchanting landscape formed by a chain of green hills at the Bharananganam panchayat. A shrine dedicated to the Pandava brothers of the epic Mahabharatha is found here. As in the famous temple at Sabarimala, only ghee is used to light the lamps here. Women are not permitted inside the temple.

Kerala Destination - Kauthuka Park

Kauthuka Park

Kauthuka Park, a beautiful garden, note for its natural beauty is situated on the way to Athirappally Waterfalls at Chalakkudy in Thrissur, Kerala. This unique garden is the outcome of Mr. Varkey Veliyath's creative excellence and is set on a residential land. The whole landscape is marked by hills, streams, caves, varieties of trees and medicinal plants.

Getting there:
By road: Kauthuka Park is on Pota - Athirapally Route, near Panampilly College.
Nearest railway station: Chalakudy, about 7 kms away.
Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, Nedumbassery, about 18 kms away.

Kerala Destination - Kappad Beach

Kappad Beach

Location: About 16 km from Kozhikode town.

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

It was the spices and wealth of Malabar that first brought the Arabs, the Phoenicans, the Greeks, the Romans, the Portuguese, the Dutch and the English to Kerala. Kappad has witnessed many such landings. Kozhikode was then the most important trade centre of the Malabar region and the Zamorins who ruled this mighty land were powerful and shrewd. Though the Portuguese were welcomed in Kozhikode they were not too well encouraged or entertained for long by the Zamorins, which might be the reason they shifted their base to Kochi and Kollam towards south.

Today only a little stone monument is left at the Kappad beach to speak of its great historic importance. On the rocks nearby is a temple believed to be 800 years old.

To the tourist, this little seafaring town is a haven. The best route to Kappad is along the backwaters. Unspoilt and uncrowded, the picturesque backwaters of Kozhikode offer a bewitching experience. A ride down the backwaters through the Korappuzha river brings you to the beach.

Getting there:

Nearest railway station: Kozhikode, about 16 km.
Nearest airport: Karipur International Airport, Kozhikode about 23 km from Kozhikode town.

Kerala Destination - Kallar

Kallar

Situated en route to the popular hill station of Ponmudi, Kallar gets its name from the River Kallar, which flows through the region. Kallu means 'stone' and Aru means 'river', hence the name Kallar. The river is well known for its abundance of attractive, round-shaped boulders and pebbles, especially in the upper reaches and middle portion of its course.

Kallar is about 50 km from the capital city of Thiruvananthapuram, and is an idyllic location. It is a favourite haunt for picnickers and attracts many with an interest in trekking, angling and bird watching.

At Kallar, the main attractions are the nearby Golden Valley, and the Meenmutti waterfall. Unlike the Meenmutti waterfall, the Golden Valley is easily accessible form the main road. Here one can take a dip in the crystal clear waters to cool off, and also watch the many rapids and small pools that dot a good part of the river in this area.

Apart from Golden Valley, those with a zeal for trekking and birdwatching can take a narrow track, starting from the right side of the Kallar Bridge. The track will lead one to a medium sized, but captivating waterfall, popularly known as Meenmutty. The waterfall is situated 3-4 km from the main road. On the way to the waterfall, one would come across ample bird life, and many species of butterflies. The forest here is mostly tropical in nature, and during the rainy season, one has to be on the alert for leeches. Assistance from the Kallar Vana Samrakshana Samithi (Kallar Forest Protection Group) at Kallar is available for trekking and also for hiring guides. The group is a joint venture by the State Department of Forest and the local community.

Visitors to Kallar can make use of the modern tourist facilitation centre run by the District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC). It offers facilities for recreation and also for organizing parties. A restaurant, toilet, changing rooms, shops that sell forest produce, STD and ISD booths and a car parking area are there at the facilitation centre.

Getting there:

Nearest airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, about 67 km.
Nearest railway station: Thiruvananthapuram Central, about 61 km.

Kerala Destination - The birthplace of Adi Sankaracharya,Kaladi

The birthplace of Adi Sankaracharya,Kaladi

The birthplace of Adi Sankaracharya, the great Advaita philosopher of the 8th century, Kaladi is 10 km from Aluva. Temples dedicated to Sri Sankara, Sarada Devi, Sri Krishna and Sri Ramakrishna add to the sanctity of the destination. A place called Crocodile Ghat is where Sri Sankara took his vows of renunciation. According to legends, a crocodile caught hold of him and refused to release him until Sankara's mother Aryamba permitted him to accept Sanyas (renunciation)

Vamanamoorthy Temple: Inscriptions from the 10th to the 13th centuries are found in this temple in Thrikakkara, near Ernakulam.
Santhanagopala-Krishnaswamy Temple: The original foundation of this temple was laid in 947 AD according to the inscriptions found here.

Kerala Destination - Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary

Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary

Location: Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary, about 19 km from Kozhikode and 7 km from Beypore Port on the Arabian Sea, Malappuram district, north Kerala

The Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary is spread over a cluster of islands in a scenic area surrounded by hillocks where the Kadalundi River flows into the Arabian Sea. The place is locally known as Kadalundi Nagaram.

This virgin land is the abode of a hundred species of native birds and over 60 varieties of migratory birds that flock here in large numbers during February-March.

A hillock nearby, which is 200 m above sea level, offers a splendid view of the river mouth and the sea. Kadalundi is also known for a wide variety of fish, mussels and crabs.

Getting there:

Nearest railway station: Kozhikode, about 19 km from Kadalundi.

Nearest airport: Karipur International Airport, about 23 km from Kozhikode town.

Kerala Destination - Jew Town

Jew Town

The area around the Synagogue is a centre of spice trade and curio shops.

Kerala Destination - The Indian School of Martial Arts- Trivandrum

The Indian School of Martial Arts, Trivandrum

Location: Vazhuthacaud, in the heart of Thiruvananthapuram City.

The Indian School of Martial Arts (ISMA) was established in 1983 and is recognised by the Government of India and Sports Council as an ideal training centre for the 5000-year-old martial art, Kalarippayattu. ISMA is also a place for healing and rejuvenation, thanks to its founder Mr.Balachandran Nair who hails from a family of warrior healers.

According to Balachandran, Kalari Chikitsa, an exclusive branch of medicine, has taken shape from Siddhavaidyam - a parallel science to Ayurveda, Dhanurveda - the mother of Ayurveda and a large collection of Olagranthas (manuscripts on dry palm leaves). This branch of medicine was developed for the students and practitioners of Kalarippayattu. Kalarichiktsa as well as Kalarippayattu are based on the 108 marmas (nerve pressure points) in the human body. Certain marmas are so sensitive that attacking them may cause death or put the victim in a state of coma.

Unlike in Ayurveda, modern medical parameters are not used in Kalarichikitsa. Instead intuitions developed from years of meditation help the healer to diagnose and treat the cause of the ailment. ISMA is housed in a three-storyed building and has a traditional Kalari - the arena for practising the art, built ten feet below ground level. The 600-year-old massage table here was carved out of a single tree and was handed down generations. There is also a meditation hall that exudes an air of tranquility and serenity. The roof garden is a treasure house of herbs used for the preparation of medicines. ISMA also offers simple accomodation and food for guests and visitors. But what attract students of history to this place are the ancient palm leaf manuscripts (Olagranthas).

Getting there:

Nearest railway station: Thiruvananthapuram Central about 2 km.
Nearest airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, about 8 km.

Kerala Destination - Indo-Portuguese Museum

Indo-Portuguese Museum

The Indo-Portuguese Museum situated in Fort Kochi throws light on the strong Portuguese influence in both the art and the architecture of the region.

The museum today is an important center for understanding the Indo-Portuguese Christian Art heritage, which is still surviving. The museum is the outcome of the untiring efforts of the late Dr. Joseph Kureethra, Bishop of Kochi. Driven by sheer commitment to protect the rich heritage of his Diocese, the bishop established the Indo-Portuguese Museum to preserve some of the invaluable collections for posterity.

The museum is divided into five main sections, according to the nature of items displayed. They are - Altar, Treasure, Procession, Civil Life and Cathedral.

The museum currently houses some outstanding collections and is well known for its artistic and architectural marvels, which bear the mark of strong Portuguese influence. Some of these include a piece of the altar made in teak wood (16th century) from the Church of Our Lady of Hope, Vypeen, a chasuble (19th century) from Bishop's House, Fort Kochi, Processional cross, which is a combination of silver and wood (17th century) from Santa Cruz Cathedral, Fort Kochi, Indo-Portuguese Monstrance (18-19th century), from The Church of Our Lady of Hope, Vypeen. Among the displayed items, the Coat of Arms of the Franciscans needs special mention

The Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation has also contributed to the rich collection at the Indo-Portuguese Museum and these include sculptures, precious metal objects and vestments, among others from the Cathedral of Santa Cruz and other churches of the Kochi diocese.

The Indo-Portuguese Museum in Kochi is indeed one of those symbols in the annals of Kochi, bearing the rich heritage of Indo-Portuguese culture and artistic influence.

Address:
Bishop's House
Fort Kochi
Kerala- 682001
Tel: 91-484-215400 / 215401

Working Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed on Mondays and all Public Holidays.
Entry is free on 1st Thursday of every month.

Kerala Destination - Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary

Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary

Location: About 40 km from Thodupuzha, Idukki district, Central Kerala.

A land-locked district, Idukki is one of the most nature-rich areas of Kerala. The Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary here spreads over an area of 77 sq km in the Thodupuzha and Udumpanchola taluks of the district. Situated at an altitude of 450-748 m above sea level, this sanctuary occupies the forest land between the Cheruthoni and Periyar rivers. There is a scenic lake around the sanctuary, covered by an enchanting canopy of tropical ever-green and deciduous trees, and offers boat rides.

Elephants, bison, sambar deer, wild dogs, jungle cats, tiger, wild boar etc. are seen here apart from various species of snakes including cobra, viper, kraits and numerous non-poisonous ones. Birds include jungle fowl, myna, laughing thrush, black bulbul, peafowl, woodpecker, kingfisher etc. The wildlife here is similar to that of Thekkady. This sanctuary lies adjacent to the world renowned Idukki Arch Dam.

Getting there: Thodupuzha-Kochi is about 58 km.

Nearest railway stations: Kottayam about 114 km; Changanassery about 114 km away.
Nearest airports: Madurai in neighbouring Tamilnadu, about 140 km away; Cochin International Airport, about 190 km away.

Kerala Destination - Holy Cross Shrine, Mapranam, Thrissur

Holy Cross Shrine, Mapranam, Thrissur

Holy Cross Shrine Mapranam Thrissur is one of the few churches in Asia, which has received the relic of Holy Cross, the relic of Holy Blood of the face of Jesus Christ, the relic of the Holy Cloth used by Veronica to wipe the face of Jesus Christ and the relic of Holy Blood of the sacred heart of Jesus Christ; all certified as authentic through an order of Pope Leo XIII. Founded in A.D. 928, it is one of the oldest churches in Kerala, India.

The pilgrim centre was recently renovated and is part of Irinjalakuda diocese. The façade of the church reflects structural resemblances of three major religions in India – Christianity, Hinduism and Islam.

The offering of candles is the main ritual here and the annual ceremony is called ‘Thirithelikkal’ (huge candle Lighting – 0.25 to 300 kg). The shrine has achieved one Guinness record and two Limca records relating to candles. The candle installed in the Church has a weight of 1079 kg and a height of 22 ft. The main feast of the shrine is the Exaltation of Cross, celebrated every year from September 12 to 15. The shrine has received recognitions from State and Central governments and from church bodies.

Kerala Destination - Hill Palace Museum

Hill Palace Museum

Location: 10 km from Ernakulam town, Central Kerala.
Visiting hours: 9.00 to 12.30 hrs and 14.00 to 16.30 hrs on all days except Mondays.

Highlights: Kerala's first heritage museum noted for royal collections of the erstwhile Maharaja of Kochi.

The Hill Palace, the official residence of the Kochi royal family, is today the largest archaeological museum in Kerala. Built in 1865, the palace complex consists of 49 buildings in the trational architectural style of Kerala, sprawled over 52 acres of beautifully landscaped terraced land which houses a deer park and facilities for horse riding. Numerous species of flora including rare medicinal plants grow here. On display in the full-fledged Ethno-archaeological museum are oil-paintings, murals, sculptures in stone and manuscripts, inscriptions, coins, belongings of the Kochi royal family and royal furniture including the simhasana (throne).

Also exhibited are over 200 antique pieces of pottery and ceramic vases from Japan and China, Kudakkallu (tomb stone), Thoppikkallu (hood stone), menhirs, granite, laterite memorials, rock-cut weapons from the Stone Age, wooden temple models, plaster cast models of objects from Mohenjodaro and Harappa of the Indus Valley Civilisation. The museum also houses a gallery of contemporary art.

Getting there:

Nearest railway station: Ernakulam, about 10 km.
Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, about 30 km.

Kerala Destination - Guruvayoor Temple

Guruvayoor Temple

Place: Guruvayoor (29 km West of Thrissur)

Guruvayoor is one of the most sacred and important pilgrim centres of Kerala. Its main attraction is the Sree Krishna temple. According to belief, the temple is the creation of Guru, the preceptor of the Gods , and Vayu, the God of winds. The eastern nada is the main entrance to the shrine. Within the Chuttambalam (outer enclosure) is the tall 33.5 m high gold plated Dwajasthambam (flag-post). There is also a 7 m high Dipastambham (pillar of lamps) whose thirteen circular receptacles provide a truly gorgeous spectacle when lit. The square Sreekovil is the sacred sanctum sanctorum of the temple houses the main deity. Within the temple there are also the images of Ganapathy, Lord Ayyappa and Edathedattu Kavil Bhagavathy. Only Hindus are allowed inside the temple.

Getting There:

Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport, about 87 km.
Nearest Railway station: Guruvayoor, enquiry: Ph: 2554300 2556820

Train timings:

From Ernakulam: 0720, 1120, 1305, 1720, 2125 hrs
From Nagarcoil: 2125 hrs (via Thiruvananthapuram)
From Thrissur: 0710, 1120, 1305, 1720, 2125 hrs

By road: Guruvayoor is connected by road with several important cities of India.

Kerala Destination - Gavi Eco-Tourism

Gavi Eco-Tourism

Gavi Eco-Tourism a project of the Kerala Forest Development Corporation has caught the attention of tourists, mostly from European countries. The project is exclusive in many respects and the majority who visited was nature lovers and adventure tourists. Over a short period of time visitors to Gavi gradually increased, especially after 'Alistair International' the world acclaimed tourism major listed it among the leading eco-tourism centres and one of the must-see places in India.

A highlight of the Gavi eco project is the involvement of the local populace in its activities as guides, gardeners and cooks. This will provide livelihood for the locals and also will help to create awareness on conservation of nature. Gavi offers its visitors activities like trekking, wildlife watching, outdoor camping in specially built tents, and night safaris.

The road leading to the picturesque Gavi is blanketed by tea plantations, which itself is a refreshing experience. En route to Gavi are places of interest like Mundakayyam, Kuttikanam, Peermedu and Vandiperiyar from where the road deviates to Gavi.

Once you reach Gavi the serene eco-lodge 'Green Mansion' awaits you like a fairy to embrace you in its protective fold. From the 'Green Mansion', one can savour the spectacular view of the Gavi Lake and the adjoining forests. Besides the accommodation provided in 'Green Mansion' visitors can also try out the tree houses here and can even pitch tents amidst the wilderness. Here one can have outstanding trekking experiences, which are overseen by trained local people. Those who would love to be left alone can do so in the tranquil environs of Gavi or may even go canoeing in the placid waters of the lake or enjoy a breathtaking sunset. Visitors are usually provided vegetarian food and snacks, which further adds to the eco-friendly ambiance of the place.

The place is rich in flora and fauna. There are hills and valleys, tropical forests, sprawling grasslands, sholas, cascading waterfalls and cardamom plantations. Endangered species including the Nilgiri Tahr and Lion-tailed macaque are often sighted at the outskirts of Gavi. With more than 260 species of birds including the great pied hornbill, woodpecker, and kingfishers, Gavi is a heaven for birdwatchers.

Some of the breathtaking viewpoints at Gavi like the Valley View offer spectacular view of a deep ravine and the forest below. From Kochu Pampa, a point near Green Mansion eco-lodge one can track the grazing Nilgiri Tahrs.

The famous pilgrim destination, Sabarimala is a short trek from Gavi. For those interested in observing the nocturnal wildlife, night safaris to Kullur, Gavi Pullumedu, Kochu Pampa, Pachakanam provide ample opportunities for wildlife viewing.

Another unique feature of Gavi is camping in the forests. One can pitch a tent in the camping site, which is a rarity in many Indian forests. As the dusk stretches into the silence of the night, one can feel the presence of wildlife in the middle of nowhere, an experience that cannot be explained in words. There are also tree top houses where one can enjoy the avian life to the fullest.

Active involvement of tribals in Gavi makes it a unique venture of its kind in the country. Traditional knowledge of the forest and its way of life helps Gavi to sustain its surroundings in its original state.

Gavi is bound to cast its magical spell on every visitor and is surely a place that should not be missed in one's lifetime. Gavi is pristine, and it belongs to the wild, which is a reminder that visitors are responsible for their intentions and actions, which will have a bearing on the upkeep of Gavi for a long time to come.

Getting there: Gavi is located about 28 km from Vandiperiyar, which is 18 km from Thekkady.

Nearest railway station: Kottayam, about 114 km away.
Nearest airports: Madurai Airport (Tamil Nadu), about 140 km away; Cochin International Airport, about 190 km away.

Contact Address:
Periyar Tiger Reserve.
Eco-Tourism Project Periyar.

For more details please contact:
Tourist Information Office
Department of Tourism, Thekkady
Phone: 04869-222620

Kerala Destination - Fort Kochi

Fort Kochi

Location: About 13 km from Ernakulam town.

Welcome to a 60-90 minute walking tour through the old streets of Fort Kochi. This is the ideal way to discover a historic town brimming with tales of myriad seafaring visitors who came here to trade. 'Walking through Fort Kochi' is a tour organised as part of the conservation and development initiatives taken up by the Corporation of Kochi.

The eventful history of this city began when a major flood in AD 1341 threw open the estuary at Kochi, which was till then a landlocked region, turning it into one of the finest natural harbours in the world. Kochi thus became a haven for seafaring visitors from all over the world and became the first European township in India when the Portuguese settled here in the 15th century.

The Dutch wrested Fort Kochi from the Portuguese in AD 1663 and later in the last phase of the colonial saga, the British took over the town in 1795. During 1660s, Fort Kochi peaked in stature as a prime commercial centre and its fame spread far and wide - variously as a rich trade centre, a major military base, a vibrant cultural hub, a great ship building centre, a centre for Christianity and so on. Today, centuries later, the city is home to nearly thirteen communities.

A few interesting sites included in the tour are the Chinese fishing nets along the Vasco Da Gama Square, Santa Cruz Basilica, St.Francis Church, VOC Gate, Bastion Bungalow etc. Apart from these architectural splendours, an array of restaurants serving fresh seafood is also popular among tourists.

The Chinese fishing nets erected on teak wood and bamboo poles work on the principle of balance. Records say they were first set up here between AD 1350 and 1450. Vasco Da Gama Square, the narrow promenade that parallels the beach, is the best place to watch the nets being lowered and pulled out of the sea.

The Santa Cruz Basilica, a church built originally by the Portuguese and elevated to a Cathedral by Pope Paul 1V 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 Basilica by Pope John Paul II in 1984.

Fort Kochi is also home to one of India's oldest churches - the St.Francis Church. This was a Roman Catholic Church during the Portuguese rule from 1503 to 1663, then a Dutch Reformist Church from 1664 to 1804, and Anglican Church from 1804 to 1947. Today it is governed by the Church of South India (CSI). Another important fact about the church is that Vasco Da Gama, who died in 1524, was buried here before his mortal remains were returned to Portugal 14 years later. Each and every structure, street, door, window and brick in Fort Kochi has several stories to tell.

Getting there: Fort Kochi is accessible by bus or ferry. The bus ride from Ernakulam town, which is nearly 13 km away, takes about an hour and the ferry ride from Main boat jetty at Ernakulam about 20 minutes.

Nearest railway station: Ernakulam about 1 1/2 km from the main boat jetty.

Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, about 20 km.

Kerala Destination - Folklore Museum

Folklore Museum

Set up in 1992, the museum is a treasure trove of quaint musical instruments, occupational implements, household utensils, models of folk art etc. Displayed in the Koyikkal Palace, they focus attention on the cultural background of the State.

Kerala Destination - Eravikulam National Park

Eravikulam National Park

Location: 15 km from Munnar.

Visiting hours: 7:00 am to 6:00 pm.

A sanctuary for the endangered mountain goat of South India, the Nilgiri Tahr ( Hemitragus hylocrious), the Eravikulam National Park stands out for the stark beauty of its rolling grasslands and sholas, spread over 97 sq km in the Rajamalai hills.

Anamudi, the highest peak (2695 m) South of the Himalayas, towers over the sanctuary in majestic pride. The slopes of the hills abound in all kinds of rare flora and fauna. The Atlas moth, the largest of its kind in the world, is a unique inhabitant of the park. Other rare species of fauna found here are the Nilgiri Langur, the Lion-tailed macaque, leopards and tigers.

An ideal place for trekking, facilities are provided here and tourists are allowed to go on foot up to Anamudi.

A protected area, the sanctuary is divided into three regions - the core area, the buffer area and the tourism area. Visitors are allowed only to the tourism area - Rajamalai - the region lying beyond the road entry into Eravikulam. Here one can observe the Nilgiri Tahr at close quarters.

Don't make this your destination for a monsoon visit because visitors are not allowed here during this season.

Getting there: Eravikulam is 15 km from Munnar.

Nearest railway stations: Kottayam, about 142 km from Munnar; Ernakulam, about 130 km from Munnar.
Nearest airports: Madurai (Tamilnadu) about 142 km; Cochin International Airport, about 150 km.

Kerala Destination - Edathua Church, Alappuzha

Edathua Church, Alappuzha

(24 km from Alappuzha, on the Alappuzha - Thiruvalla Road) Established in 1810, the church is dedicated to St. George.

It is believed that prayers and offerings at this church help to heal all mental disorders and other ailments. During the annual feast (5th, 6th and 7th of May) pilgrims from all parts of South India, irrespective of caste and creed, visit the church and seek the blessings of the saint.
Arthunkal

(22 km north of Alappuzha) The St. Sebastian's Church here is an important Christian pilgrim centre. Annual festival: Arthunkal Perunnal - the feast of the patron saint (January)

Kerala Destination - Edakkal Caves

Edakkal Caves

What kind of people were our ancestors? What kind of lives did they lead? Often, the paths leading to the answers to these questions are as fascinating as the answers themselves. If you would like to walk a little way along one such wonderful path of discovery, one good place to visit would be the Edakkal caves in the Ambukuthi Hills in North Kerala, considered to be one of the earliest centres of human habitation. Inside the cave you will find ancient stone scripts, pictorial wall inscriptions of human and animal figures with peculiar headdresses, the swastik form, symbols and cave drawings of human figures, wheels, bows, knives, trees and so on.

Similar cave drawings, considered to be 7000 years old, are found only in Stiriya in the European Alps and a few rocky places in Africa. The caves, which are found around 10 km from Sultan Bathery, are two natural rock formations believed to have been formed by a large split in a huge rock.

Getting there:

Nearest railway station: Kozhikode railway station about 97 km from Sultan Bathery.

Nearest airport: Karipur international airport about 23 km from Kozhikode.

Kerala Destination - Echo Point, Munnar

Echo Point Munnar

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 worth a visit.

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.

Getting there:

Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, Nedumbassery, about 115 kms
Madurai in Tamil Nadu, about 140 kms
Nearest railway station: Theni in Tamil Nadu, about 60 kms
Changanacherry, about 93 kms

Kerala Destination - East Fort,Trivandrum

East Fort

The East Fort area in the Capital City of Thiruvananthapuram bears a lot of historic significance. The East Fort houses several magnificent palaces, palatial houses, and agraharams (Brahmin houses). Standing out is the Padmanabha Swamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The Fort has stood witness to many events in the annals of the erstwhile Travancore Kingdom, and also to the development of the Capital City of Thiruvananthapuram.

The entire East Fort area has been declared by the State Government as a heritage site. For a visitor, the imposing gateway of the East Fort, painted in white and located on the eastern side, facing the famous Chalai bazaar is the usual way to get inside the Fort. Built in AD 1747 by King Marthanda Varma, the East Fort is the most prominent of the forts. One can also find two mandapams (platform with a roof supported by pillars) at the top, which were once used to announce royal proclamations.

A bit towards South of East Fort gate is the fort gate called Vettimurichakotta with rooms for guards on either side. The construction of this fort, was initiated by King Vishakam Thirunal. Located near this fort is C.V.N. Kalari the famous centre for Kalaripayattu, the traditional martial art form of Kerala.

As one enters through the East Fort gate, straight in line with the entrance is the Padmanabha Swamy Temple. Built in traditional Kerala and Dravidian style, the architecture of this seven-storeyed temple-tower itself is a sight to behold. The deity of the temple is Lord Padmanabha, the incarnation of Lord Vishnu, the preserver of life according to Hindu belief. Here, the 18 feet long deity is seen as lying on a serpent called Anantha. The Kings of Travancore ruled the land as the servants of Lord Padmanabha. Inside the temple, a mandapam (platform with pillars) carved out of a single piece of rock displays eye-catching sculptures.

Padmatheertham, the temple pond is located in front of the temple. On the way to the temple, one would also find a piece of engineering marvel called Methan Mani. This is a clock and on its dial is depicted a man's face with two goats on either side. Every time the clock strikes an hour, the man opens his mouth and the goats would butt his cheeks.

Built in 1818 is the Padinjarekotta or the fort gate situated on the western side. This fort gate was built following the closure of another gate called Nariadachankotta, which is situated close to it. Just like the East Fort, the Padinjarekotta also has a touch of French architecture. The annual Aaraatt procession from the Padmanabha Swamy Temple passes through this fort.

Other notable fort gates include the Azheekotta located quarter of a kilometer from Padinjarekotta and the Aashupathrikotta situated near the Government Hospital.

Inside the fort area, one can find several small and big palaces, and palatial buildings built in traditional as well as western style of architecture. These are buildings, which were once used by the members of the Travancore royal family. Except for few, most of them now function as various offices.

Among the prominent palaces in the East Fort area, the Ananthavilasam Palace is considered the most beautiful of all. Built by King Vishakam Thirunal in 1880, the palace is located to the South of the temple. The palace follows the Barouque and Rococo styles of architecture.

Close to Ananthavilasam Palace and built by King Sree Moolam Thirunal in 1885 is the Krishnavilasom Palace, which integrates the traditional and western styles of architecture.

Another notable one among the palaces in East Fort is the Sree Padam Kottaram, which is one of the oldest palaces inside the fort. Situated to the North of the temple, the palace has played host to kings and queens who arrived to participate in the temple rituals.

Other palaces of prominence are the Saraswathivilasam and the Sundaravilasam palaces. The Saraswathivilasam Palace built in Kerala as well as western architectural style is marked by high walls and roofs, long verandahs, arched gates and circular pillars. It was built towards the end of the 19th century, and was once residence of Kerala Varma Valia Koyi Thampuran.

Located close to the Saraswathivilasam Palace is the Sundaravilasam Palace, built by King Sree Moolam Thirunal. Displaying both traditional and western styles of architecture, the palace is also the venue for Pallivetta a ritual observed as part of the annual Aaraatt festival at the Padmanabha Swamy Temple.

A visit to the East Fort will not be complete without the Kuthiramalika and the Navarathri Mandapam.

Kuthiramalika or the Horse Palace is on the left side of the road leading to the Padmanabha Swamy Temple. It is also known as the Puthenmalika and was built in 1844 by King Swathi Thirunal. The palace takes the name of Horse Palace due to the wooden carved structures of prancing horses along the entire length of its upper floors. This two-storeyed building is built entirely in Kerala style of architecture. An interesting feature of this palace is a raised alcove built by King Swathi Thirunal to compose songs, to meet musicians from different parts of the world, and also to have a good look at the temple. Kuthiramalika also has a museum housing rare artifacts belonging to Travancore Kings, paintings of Raja Ravi Varma etc.

The Navarathri Mandapam, situated to the East of the Padmanabha Swamy Temple is the venue for the annual ten-day Navarathri celebrations. The annual Navarathri music festival is also held here, which is attended by musicians from across the country.

Nearby the East Fort, one may also visit some of the palatial houses, locally called as Amma Veedu. These are houses more than 150 years old, specially built for the consorts of Travancore Kings. These houses display a blend of Kerala and European styles of architecture. With beautiful matchless interiors, these houses do not have cement and iron as part of their building materials. The prominent Amma Veedus include the Arumana, Thanjavur and Vedasseri.

Kerala Destination - CVN Kalari,Calicut

CVN Kalari

Think you're pretty fit for your age? If you do, you should watch a Kalaripayat expert in action. He'll surely make you feel like a worn old bag! Kalarippayat (Kalari, the arena for practice and payat, the art of fighting) is the unique martial art of Kerala, which has its roots in the Dhanurveda, the oldest available text on war-fare. In fact most of the popular martial arts of the world have been influenced directly or indirectly by this art.

Unlike other martial arts, the person practicing Kalari wears no protective armour even while engaged in combat with sharp weapons. For his self-defence, he depends completely on his alertness and agility, using various steps and swift movements. A good place to get a taste of this fascinating art form would be the C.V.N. Kalari Sangham, the Kalari and Ayurvedic treatment centre at Nadakkavu, Calicut. Established in 1955, this is a well-known institute for training in this ancient system of martial art and physical culture. The gurus, the teachers of the Kalari apart from being masters at Kalarippayat are also adept in the Kalari way of treatment for muscular, neuro and orthopaedic disorders and body massaging (uzhichil) for general health. There is a presiding diety for the Kalari - Lord Shiva in combination with Goddess Shakti, and traditional lamps are lit and worship conducted daily.

Many of the classical folk-art forms of Kerala have come under the influence of Kalarippayat. The concept of body training aimed at perfect psychophysical integration has attracted considerable interest from dance and acting circles in western countries and the C.V.N. Kalari receives many foreign students. Lecture demonstrations, workshops and short duration courses are conducted for visiting tourists.

Kerala Destination - CVN Kalari,Trivandrum

CVN Kalari

Location: East Fort, Trivandrum , at a walkable distance from the central bus station.

Kalarippayattu, considered to be the mother of all martial art forms in the world, is a priceless asset to Kerala's heritage. An intricate blend of physical prowess, mindset, martial techniques and indigenous medical system, this form of armed, close quarter, hand-to-hand combat is unique to this State.

The Kalari is a practice ring or training centre on the lines of a gymnasium and Payattu is a duel. Hence, Kalarippayattu means martial skills learnt in a ring or training centre.

The CVN Kalari Sangham in Thiruvananthapuram was established in 1956 following the lifelong dedicated efforts of C.V.Narayanan Nair, C.V.Balan Nair and Kottackal Karunakara Gurukkal, who popularised the art which was on the verge of dying. They succeeded, by staging demonstrations, collecting information and establishing Kalaries all over the State.

The CVN Kalari is built in an East-West direction about 4 feet below ground level, and is closed on all sides except for a small door on the Eastern side. This cocoon-like traditional Kalari architecture is greatly suited for the tropical, humid climate of Kerala. There is not much light within the Kalari other than the light from the traditional wick lamps or nilavilakku.

Since Kalarippayattu is considered a sublime martial art, certain deities are placed in the Kalari and devotional rituals performed before every session to obtain their blessings. The main deity is Kalari Paradevata, or the Goddess of Kalari. Idols of Ganapathi, Naga (the serpent god), Bhadrakaali and others are also placed along with. The rites of worship are a part of the Kalari tradition.

Rigorous training and perseverance creates a Kalari fighter

The Kalari fighter depends only on his alertness and agility, and the use of various stances and swift movements for attack and self defence. Long years of systematic and rigorous training hone these reflexes even while cultivating mental abilities like concentration, confidence and courage.

The training usually starts at the age of seven for both boys and girls. For most Kalari exponents, the training becomes a way of life. Besides the physical aspects, the Kalari training includes meditation and Ayurvedic oil massages. The massages are of prime importance in conditioning and making the body supple. This is done by the Gurukkal or the Master Trainer himself.

The training is imparted in four stages. First the Chuvadu or stance. This is followed by Vadivu or body postures which are eight in number: gaja (elephant), simha (lion), aswa (horse), varaha (pig), sarpa (serpent), marjjara (cat), kukkuda (rooster) and matsya (fish).

The trainee who masters the Chuvadu and Vadivu goes on to Meyppayattu (the use of the body in fighting) which aims at perfecting neuro-muscular coordination. Then begins the training with weapons. Commencing with cane weapons, the trainee graduates to using the Cheruvadi (small stick), Ottakkol (poles), Gada (mace) and Kadtaram (steel dagger), and then the most glamorous of combats - fighting with the sword and shield.

Another weapon is the Urumi, a long, springy, double edged, coiled sword which can even recoil and hurt the user if not wielded with skill. Fighting with spears is the last in the weapon training syllabus. The spears called Kuntham are long poles made of cane, bamboo or wood with a sharp double edged metal tip.

An entire system of medicine evolved around the art

Kalari Chikitsa, or Kalari treatment is an integral part of the Kalari tradition. It is mainly used to treat sprains, fractures, wounds and other injuries. Performers of other traditional arts of Kerala also undergo the Kalari Chikitsa to improve the suppleness of the body. The masters of Kalarippayattu are extraordinary healers adept at curing physical ailments with the ancient Ayurvedic system of massages and herbs.

Kalari performances at CVN Kalari

Performances are organised both in India and abroad on request. Lecture demonstrations are presented to interested groups at the Kalari in Thiruvananthapuram and Kozhikode. The timings are usually 6:00 am to 9:00 am and 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm.

The CVN Kalari Sangham has recently published a book written by P. Balakrishnan titled Kalarippayattu both in English and Malayalam.

Getting there:

Nearest railway station : Thiruvananthapuram central, about 1 1/2 km
Nearest airport : Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, about 6 km