ABOUT KERALA
Kerala is probably the greenest place you will ever see. The coconut palms, the red tilted houses, the innumerable lakes and beaches will remain long lasting impressions to any visitor. The colorful festivals like ONAM & VISHU, various types dances like Kathakali, Kaikottikali, Mohiniyattom and Koodiyattam, martial arts like Kalaripayattu and wildlife sanctuaries are the other attractions.
Ayurveda the 3000 year old system of medicine (recognized by World Health Organization as a system of alternative medicine), is becoming very popular all over the world. Kerala is a very attractive tourist place in Asia.
Location: Kerala is a narrow strip of land located on the south western edge of the Indian Subcontinent. It is sandwiched between the Western Ghats mountain range on the East and the Arabian Sea on the West.
» Area : 38,863 sq km
» Capital : Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum)
» Language : Malayalam, Hindi, English
» Climate : Summer - February to May (Max. 33oC Min. 24oC)
Monsoon - June to September (Max. 28oC Min. 22oC)
Winter - October to September (Max. 32oC Min. 22oC)
Legend says that Parasuraman, the sixth incarnation of Lord Vishnu threw his axe into the sea from Gokarnam (near present Mangalore) and it is believed the sea retreated from where his axe fell to give birth to Kerala.
Geologist are of the view that Kerala was formed much later than the rest of the subcontinent. Submarine earth movement probably pushed up the land between the curve of the Western Ghats to form this wonderful land. It is possible that the earth inhabitants could have witnessed this geological event leading to the creation of the myths & legends concerning the birth of Kerala.
The interesting thing about the myths and legends of Kerala are that they are so strongly interlinked with scientific facts and history that it is very difficult to distinguish between fact and fiction. According to the discovery of Microliths or small stone implements near Kozhikode and Cochin point to presence of man in Kerala as far back as 4000 BC.
Historians believe that civilization existed in one form or the other in Kerala as early as 5000 BC to 3000 BC. T he early where most probably of Negrito stock as the rest of South India. The Negrito race was followed by the Austrics and then by the Dravidians. The Indo-Arabians (erroneously often referred to as Aryans) seems to have gained in substantial numbers by 2000-1500 BC.
Christianity and Islam were introduced in Kerala much before the rest of the India. Historians and the Church agree that St. Thomas the Apostle arrived in Muziris (present day Kodungallur) in AD 52. Still later in AD 643 prophet Mohammed's disciple Malik Ibn Dinar arrived in Kerala to spread the prophet's message. Then in 1498 the first wave of the Europeans began to arrive. Vasco Da Gama, the Portuguese seafarer landed at the Kappad beach near Calicut in north Kerala.
Kerala is a land which always encouraged trading and traders. In 1000 BC King Solomon's ship visited "Ophix" (the modern puvar south of Thiruvananthapuram) to trade in Ivory Sandalwood and Peacocks. This fame of Kerala Spices brought the Romans in 30 AD. Who were followed by the Greeks, Arabs, Chinese. The spices trade brought Vascoda Gamma to Kappad (near Kozhikode) in 1498. Which paved the way for a new trading history. Followed by Gamma Europeans opened the way for new trade in spices, Ivory, Sandalwood and Peacocks.
Geographically Kerala is one of the smallest states in India covering merely 1.3% of total area of the country. Karnataka in north and Tamilnadu in East. Physically the state can be divided in to three natural divisions, the sandy costal region with coconut groves, paddy fields, back waters and sea. The midland region made up of fertile reddish hills and valleys that grow most of Kerala's agricultural crops. Peaks extensive ridges and ravines of the Western Ghats. Where sandalwood, tea, coffee, rubber and most of Kerala's exotic spices are grown.
Kerala enjoys balmy Weather almost all through out the year. It is neither too cold in the winter months nor too hot in summer. The best time to visit is November to February, where the air bracing and on some morning there is a light mist.
BEACHES IN KERALA
Here is the list of some important beaches in Kerala.
» Kovalam
» Shangumugham
» Veli
» Varkala
» Kollam
» Alleppey
» Fortkochi
» Cherai
» Calicut
» Kappad
» Thalassery
» Muzhaplangadu
» Payyambalam
» Bakel
Beaches are one of the most important tourist attraction in Kerala. Though Kovalam is the most popular beach in Kerala, there are many other beaches which are almost as good. The long coastline lined with the swaying coconut palm trees and dotted with an occasional fishing hamlet is fast developing into one of the world's best string of beaches. Though infrastructure is yet to come up in many of the beaches, the advantages in those beaches are many, the most important being, less crowded.
Bekal: Spectacular beach destination
Everything about Bekal is spellbinding. The 300 year old Bekal Fort exuding an irresistible old world charm. Enchanting landscapes of beaches, backwaters and hill stations. Mesmerising art forms. Magical traditions... This quiet little seaside village in the northernmost district of Kerala has every ingredient that would go into the creation of an international standard beach destination.
Bekal enjoys the advantages of Kerala : Making Bekal even more exclusive is that it is backed by all the intrinsic advantages of Kerala - God's Own Country. Kerala is the breathtakingly beautiful land at the southwestern tip of India that enjoys unique geographic features, a pleasant climate and a rich cultural heritage. Besides, Kerala is also well connected to the rest of the world - Three international airports, good railway network (now with the Konkan railway line, Bombay will be just 15 hours from Bekal) and modern communication facilities.
HILL STATIONS IN KERALA
Thiruvananthapuram:
Ponmudi
Situated at an attitude of 915 m above sea level, Ponmudi is a beautiful hill station known for its pleasant climate, tea plantations and enchanting scenery. The deep forest trails are ideal for hiking and trekking.
Pathanamthitta:
Charalkunnu
This picturesque hill station offers a panoramic view of the nearby valleys. A camp house on the hill provides comfortable lodging.
Kottayam:
Wagamon
This hill station (60 km from Kottayam), at an elevation of 1100 meters above sea level, is a trekker's delight.
Elaveezhapoonchira
Easily accessible from Pala town Elaveezhapoonchira is a picturesque picnic spot located in the most of beautiful hillrocks.
Idukki:
Munnar
Munnar is situated at the confluence of three mountain streams - Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni, Kundala. 1600 m. above sea level, this hill station was the summer resort of the British Government in South India. Sprawling tea plantations, picture book towns, winding lanes, and holiday facilities make this a popular hill station.
Among the exotic flora found in the forests and grasslands here is the Neelakurinji. This flower which bathes the hills in blue once every twelve years, will bloom next in 2006 AD. Munnar also has the highest peak in South India, Anamudi - which towers over 2695 m. Anamudi is an ideal spot for trekking.
Peerumed
Situated Situated amidst rubber, tea, coffee, and pepper plantations is this dainty little hill station of Peerumed, an ideal stopover on the way to Thekkady. Surrounded by rolling hills and valleys, Peerumed is well known for its waterfalls, open grasslands and delightful trekking trails. This pleasant hill station was once of the summer retreat of the Maharajas of Travancore
Palakkad:
Nelliyampathy
This fascinating hill station is at a height of 467 to 1572 m above sea level. At least 10 hair pin bends have to be negotiated on the ghat road that passes through the breathtaking evergreen forests of the Sahya Ranges. Seethakundu at Nelliyampathy offers a panoramic view of about one third of Palakkad.
Attappady
A beautiful synthesis of mountains, rivers and forests, Attappady is of great interest to anthropologists. This is the habitat of many tribes like the Irulars and Mudugas. The Malleeswaran peak is worshipped as a gigantic Sivalinga by the Adivasis who also celebrate the Sivarathri festival with great fervour. A PWD Rest House, a VIP Guest House and a few private hotels offers accommodation at Agali.
Dhoni
It takes a three hour trek from the base of the Dhoni hills, to reach this reserve forest area with its small, beautiful waterfall. This hill country is the delight of trekkers. The community hall at Kalikatty is used as a camping base for trekkers.
Kozhikode:
Peruvannamoozhi Dam
The picturesque dam sight has a crocodile farm and birds sanctuary here. Boating facilities are also available here.
Tusharagiri
Famous for its trekking tracks, it is located, near Vythiri in Wayanad. Trekkers start early morning from the second waterfall and climb uphill through the pristine, evergreen dense forests populated with exotic birds and wild animals to reach Vythiri by evening.
Wayanad:
Pakshipathalam
This place can be accessed only be trekking. Rare species of birds can be sighted from the watch tower of this bird sanctuary.
Chembra Peak
At 2100 m above mean sea level. Chembra is the highest peak in Wayanad and is an ideal area for trekking.
Lakkidi
Lakkidi, the gateway to Wayanad, is situated 700 m above mean sea level, at the crest of the Thamarassery Ghat pass. Lofty peaks, gurgling streams and luxuriant forests add magic to the journey up the winding roads ti this hill station.
Kannur:
Pythal Mala
This enchanting hill station situated 4,500 ft. above sea level near the Kerala - Karnataka border, is rich in flora and fauna. It is a six Km trek to the top of the hills.
Ezhimala
The beautiful beach here has a hillock nearby (286 M high). A Naval Academy is being developed here.
Kassarkod:
Ranipuram
Situated 750 meters from sea level, Ranipuram is famous for its trekking trails and varied vegetation - evergreen shoal woods, monsoon forests and grasslands (55 kms from Kassarkod)
BACKWATERS IN KERALA
Backwaters are unique to Kerala and the area, over the last couple of years has seen unprecedented tourist interest. The backwaters are essentially inland lakes connected by a network of canals. The backwaters stretch to almost 1900 km even though Kerala's coastline is only 700 km.
Backwaters of Kumarakom between Alappuzha and Kottayam is a popular tourist destination. Backwaters of Kuttanad region, the rice bowl of Kerala, is also very famous. The life style in the area is unique as 3/4 of the year, the land is flooded. This area is probably the one and only place in world where farming is done below sea level. The Kollam Alappuzha backwater trip is a tourist favorite. This slow journey by boat takes almost seven hours. One can see villages life at close quarters besides the farming and fishing activities.
Kettuvallam (House Boats) :-
Large boats of over 60 feet in length covered with sheets made up of coconut leafs or palm leafs. Now these are converted into floating luxury dwelling units. These houseboats come in all shapes and sizes. The houseboats are generally powered by a small outboard engine, allowing one to cruise along the the backwaters. Now lot of facilities are providing in houseboats like rooms, kitchen, dormitories, conference rooms, etc.
There are motorboats are available for hire to travel through the backwaters. The major places for backwater activities are Kollam, Cochin, Alappuzha, Vaikom and Kumarakom. Snake boat race through backwaters are a major tourist attraction.
iff Range:
[Single Cabin Boats: USD 170.00]
[Two Cabin Boats Each Cabin: USD 142.00]
[Two Cabin Boats Both Cabin: USD 256.00]
[Exclusive: USD 228.00]
[Three Cabin Boats: USD 343.00]
[Cruiser Boats: USD 129.00]
TourIndia, a specialist tour operator started a team of young people about 25 years ago. TourIndia has pioneered the development of backwater tourism by introducing first Kettuvallam (Rice Boat) for comfortable cruise in the canals. These house boats are known for its unique design use of local material like bamboo poles, coconut finer ropes, bamboo mats, carpets etc.
AYURVEDA-THE OLDEST MEDICAL SYSTEM
Ayurveda :- Which is believed as the oldest treatment method in the world (more than 3500 years old). The Plants are used for preparing as medicines. Nowadays Ayurveda has become very popular among the tourist especially foreigners. Patients from all over the world are coming here for Ayurveda treatment.
The literal meaning of Ayurveda is 'Science of Life'. The system is passed through traditionally from master to disciples orally. 'Thaliyola', palm leaf, was used for writing medical details. 'Narayam', an iron pin, was used as pen. The disciples used to stay in master's house, which is known a 'Gurukula'.
Now the traditional knowledge has been improved through scientific research and is taught in various Ayurveda Colleges in Kerala. A graduate doctor in Ayurveda, takes 5 years of courses at college besides six months of internship and is considered on par with doctors of modern medicine.
Ayurveda is based on the Vedic philosophy of healthy living as prescribed in the 'Atharvaveda', a Vedic text on Hindu philosophy. It is a system of preventive medicine which provides remedies for various illnesses and prescribes ideal lifestyles to prevent the onset of sickness and disease. The majority of Ayurvedic medicines are not mass produced, as Ayurveda treatment is based on the premise that every person has an individualized constitution and medicines have to be tailored to suit the individual. According to Ayurveda the human body comprises of 3 constituents known as the 'Tridoshas'. They are 'Vatha', 'Pitha' and 'Kapha'. Through these constituents vary from person to person, one of the 'Tridoshas' predominates over the other two. This predominance can be identified by the physical and emotional characteristics of a person ("Personality types"). Accordingly two people suffering from the same ailment may be prescribed different medicines to suit their constitutions.
To stay healthy, the Tridoshas need to function in harmony with each other, as well as with the five basic elements of the Universe (Air, Water, Fire, Earth and Ether). Most illness arise due to the imbalance in functioning of any one or two of the Tridoshas which leads to malfunction of the internal organs. Although Ayurveda acknowledges that infective diseases are spread by germs, the treatment is based on the theory of Tridoshas. Ayurveda does not 'kill' an infection like antibiotics
but instead it strengthens body's immune system to fight disease or infection.
The more popular Ayurvedic programmes among the tourists are Rejuvenation therapies (Oil massages, herbal baths etc.) and yoga. Ayurveda is sometimes considered a better alternative in certain cases of Jaundice, Paralysis, Arthritis, Parkinson's disease, Spinal problems, Gastric or Peptic ulcers etc.
General Cautions For Some Treatment
» 'Pizhichil' (Oil massage) is not recommended for persons with serious liver and renal problems.
» Blood parameters should be checked and kept at a safe level before starting any of the intensive treatments.
» Whole body 'Navarakizhi' is not recommended for patients suffering from diabetes, obesity, serious cardiac, hepatic and renal patients.
» 'Sirodhara' (Head bath with medicated milk or oil) is not recommended in case of cerebral thrombosis.
» Intensive Steam baths should be done under the guidance of the physician.
ART & CULTURE OF KERALA
Kathakali :-A very popular dance form with the tourists visiting Kerala. It is actually a dance drama performed by mostly male artist. The actors convey the message of the story through very expressive facial movements and mudras (hand gesture).
The background singers provide the dialogue. The face of the Kathakali artist is colorfully painted to suit the role. The painted face is often mistaken for a mask. Kerala Kalamandalam situated near Thrissur is a major Kathakali training centre. There are many Kathakali centers in Thiruvananthapuram and Cochin. The painting of the Kathakali face can be seen at most centers if you can visit the centre at least one hour before the performance.
The other dance forms popular in Kerala are Bharathanatyam, Mohiniyattom, Ottamthullal, Margam Kali and Chavitu Natakom. Oppana is also very popular in Malabar region.
Kalaripayattu :- The martial art form of Kerala is believed to be the predecessor to the more famous Karate and Kungfu. Available historic evidence prove practice of Kalari as far back as the 12th Century AD. There is a branch of medicine called Kalari Chikilsa, which has developed as an offshoot of Kalaripayattu, is mainly deals with cure of injuries and sprains.
Kalaripayattu can be seen in the various training centers in the state. C.V.N. Kalari is a famous Kalari training centre. They have training centers in Thiruvananthapuram and Kozhikode besides other places.
PILGRIM CENTERS IN KERALA
Pathanamthitta:
Sabarimala Sree Ayyappa Temple
A well-known pilgrim centre, Sabarimala is situated amidst dense forests in the rugged terrains of the Western Ghats. The temple is situated 5 km away from Pamba and can be reached only by trekking. The main festival is during December/January this period is called as 'Mandalakalam'. The pilgrims will take fenance which is called as "Mandalavritham". It is one of the most famous pilgrim centres in India, Sabarimala is situated on the mountain ranges of the Western Ghats at an altitude of 914 m above sea level and is accessible only by foot from Pamba (4 Km). November to mid January is the season which is called as "Mandalakalam". Mandalapooja & Makara Vilakku are the two main events of the pilgrim season. The temple stays closed during the rest of the year except for the first five days of every Malayalam month and during Vishu (April). Nearest railway station is Thiruvalla (102 Km).
People of all castes and creeds are permitted into the temple. However entry is not allowed to women between 10 and 50 years of age. Pilgrims will go with their "Erimudikettu" which contains ghee filled coconuts. "Neyyabhishekam" is the main offering.
Kottayam:
Vaikom - This town, located on the bank of the Vembanadu lake, is famous for its Siva temple, which is one of the oldest Siva Temple in the world. During the Sabarimala season pilgrims alight here to worship the 'Annadanaprabhu (Load Siva)'. Vaikom gained prominence during the Indian freedom struggle, as it was the venue of the famous Satyagraha staged in 1925 for the admission of Harijans into this temple. Vaikom is situated about 40kms from Kottayam town. Two Ashtami festivals are held annually, one in Kumbam (Feb -Mar) and the other in Vrichikom (Nov-Dec) of which the latter is more famous. The celebrations last for 12 days and end with an 'Aarattu' at the Subrahmanya Swami Temple at Udayanapuram, on the day after Ashtami. Prathal (feast) is the main Vazhipadu here. There is a school teaching temple arts, known as Kshethrakalapeedhom, attached to the temple.
St. Mary's Church, Cheriyapally - This church contains exquisite murals and paintings of Biblical and non-Biblical thems.
Thirunakkara Siva Temple - Built in the indigenous style of architecture, this temple has many interesting paintings on its walls. The sanctum-sanctorum is covered with pictures from the epics. Three festivals are celebrated here in Thulam (Oct-Nov) Mithunam (Jun-Jul) and Meenam (Mar-Apr) of which the last one is the most important. The 'Aarattu', conducted on the last day of the festival, is the festival, is the festival of Kottayam, irrespective of the caste and creeds. The main festival Phalguna Utsavam is celebrated during March.
The Mosque at Thazhathangadi is one of the ancient mosques in India which is made in the old Kerala style. It is believed that malik Dinar had built this mosque about 1000 years ago. Now it is an important pilgrim centre at Kottayam. The artistic value of this mosque is of special interest to the tourists.
Goodshepherd Church situated behind the civil station at Kottayam, this is the first church of Diocese of Vijayapuram.
ABOUT MALAYALEES
Malayalam is the language of Kerala. Keralites are popularly called "Malayalees" for the language they speak. The people of Kerala form a well educated society. Kerala is the first state in Indian with 100% literacy.
The women mostly dress themselves in those wonderful six meters of silk or cotton called SARI. The more convenient dresses like Churidar and Western fashion styles are popular among the younger generation. The men mostly subscribe to trousers and shirt like the rest of the world. How ever you shouldn't be surprised if you find them dressed in the traditional "Kasavu Mundu", a three to four meter long cotton twin cloth with silk border, as formal dress and a colourful cloth called "Kaily" or "Lunky" at home as the informal dress. Mundu is more popular in the rural areas. The typical style of a Malayalee is "Mundu", top covered with a silk cloth called "Melmundu" and wooden slippers called as "Methiyadi". The very interesting thing about a Malayalee is his Moustache. Almost 90% of the men having a nice Moustache. It is very easy to identify a Malayalee. Most of the Malayalees love to have a nice Beard too.
SADYA - A feast
Malayalees are living all over the world. About 2.5 million people, that means about 8% of the total population, in the Gulf Countries are Malayalees. Also a large number of Malayalees are employing in USA, UK and other European countries. A survey showing that about 30% of Computer Software professionals in USA are from India among them 20% are from Kerala. A good joke about Malayalees is there which is very famous. When Neil Armstrong put his foot in Moon then he heard a sound "Choodu Chaya Kappy ..... Chaya Kappy" (in English - hot tea, coffee) there. (With in a short period we will provide jokes about Malayalees through this site).
The Hindus account for nearly 60% of the population. The rest of the 40% is almost equally divided between the Christians and the Muslims.
Agriculture is the mainstay of the economy. Exports and tourism also plays an important role.
The official language of Kerala is Malayalam but English too is widely spoken and is taught in schools and Universities. Malayalam is considered to be a very complete language it has 56 alphabets and many more vowels, making every word and accent in the world easily pronounceable to the Malayalees. Kerala is one of the most progressive state in terms of social welfare and physical quality of life. The matriarchal system here is a unique social heritage as the women of Kerala enjoy a better status than there counter parts else where in India.
The people of Kerala enjoy a unique cosmopolitan outlook, which is reflected in there tolerance towards other races and religions. So it has been called Kerala as "God's Own Country".
WEATHER IN KERALA
Kerala enjoys balmy Weather almost all through the year, it is neither too cold in the winter months nor too hot in summer. The best time to visit November - February, when the air is bracing, and on some mornings there is a light mist. Light woolens may be required in the hills in the evenings and early mornings. The warmer months are March-May and September-October, when the flowers are out and nature is at her best. Mid-May to August is the monsoon period, and one can except a wet time. In addition, June is also a windy month.
Summer Feb - May (24o - 33o C)
Monsoon Jan - Sep (22o - 28o C)
Winter Oct - Jan (22 - 32o C)
KERALA TRAVEL & TOURS
Please contact us for more details about package tours .......
» Capital : Thiruvananthapuram
» Language : Malayalam, English
» Area : 38863 Sq. Km.
» Boundaries :
- West - Arabian Sea
- South East - Tamilnadu
- North East - Karnataka
» Population : 30,500,000
» Literacy : 99%
» Sea Shore : 580 Km.
» Districts : 14
» Main Port : Cochin
» Temperature : 34oC - 21oC (Summer)
» Monsoon : June - October
» Official Animal : Elephant
» Official Bird : Nightingale
» Official Tree : Coconut
» Map Position : South West Corner of Indian Sub-continental
» Religions : Hindu, Christian, Islam
» Time Zone : +5.30 GMT
» Currency : Indian Rupee
» Climate : Tropical
WILDLIFE IN KERALA
Kerala has about 30% of its land cover accounted by forests. The forests of Kerala are famous for elephants and tigers. Also there are a lot of animals are there like sambar, deer and wild buffalos. Periyar Wild Life Sanctuary, Parambikulam Wild Life Sanctuary, Eravikulam National Park are the major Wild Life centers. Kumarakom, Thattekad, Myladumpara are the main Bird watching centers.
The major tourist activities that can be undertaken in the wild life parks are wild life tours. One can really feel the smell of an Elephant in these tours. Elephant rides, staying at jungle lodges, tree houses, fishing camps etc. are other facilities available there. Guides are available in the Periyar Wild Life Sanctuary for treks in the forest. The Parambikulam forest authorities organize wild life tours in the park.
Elephants In Kerala :-
In Kerala one can see elephants in the streets. Elephants are used for lot of activities in Kerala like Temple Processions, lifting heavy timber trees and woods. Elephants have always found a place in the life of the Keralites. No Temple festivals are completed without an Elephant. They are loved and well cared by the people of Kerala. Certain organizations like the forest department which own elephants, enroll them as employees.
These 'Elephant Employees' earn salaries (with which it is feed). They are even pensioned off after a certain age.
An Elephant is believed to be a quite intelligent animal, a well trained elephant can understand almost 40 commands. It is also believed to have a very good memory. As a 'supposed to be real life story' goes, a trained elephant in a camp ran away to the forest, the big guy returns to the camp after four long years and joins for work without forgetting a single command.
Wild Life Sanctuaries :-
Periyar Wild Life Sanctuary
Eravikulam National Park
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
Nagarhole (Karnataka)
Nelliyampathy
Muthanga Wild Life Sanctuary
Thattekad Bird Sanctuary
Myladumpara
Parambikulam Wild Life Sanctuary