Kerala – also known as the God’s Own Country – is a globally famous Indian tourist destination. It is one of the most beautiful states of India. Tourists from all over the world come to India to visit Kerala and explore its fascinating attractions. Unique cultural and geographical features make Kerala a prime travel and holiday destination among tourists and vacationers from all over the world. When it comes to its unique cultural features, one must visit its architecturally beautiful monuments, temples, forts, palaces, etc and explore its traditional villages. When it come to its geographical features there are numerous options for tourists to do and see.
There are beaches, lakes, waterfalls, wildlife reserve, bird sanctuary, rich flora and fauna, picture-perfect picnic spots, hill stations, lush green plantations, lush paddy fields, and more. In fact, Kerala has something for ever tourists. And never fail to allure them with its unique cultural and geographical features. There are several packages available in the market offered by several tour operators and travel agents for convenient Kerala Tour. You too can enjoy and observe the charm of this beautiful Indian state on your package tours to Kerala.
If you want to explore Kerala’ attractions then you can choose a range of tour packages offered by various travel agents and tour operators, such as; backwaters tour, pilgrim package tours, ayurveda tours, beach tour, wildlife tour, hill station tour, houseboat tour, cultural Kerala tours package and a lot more. Be sure, whatever destination of the state you want to choose for your tourism and holiday, surly all will be capable to provide pleasant ambiance and experience of lifetime.
Undoubtedly beaches and backwaters are the prime attractions of Kerala, South India. That’s why almost every covers breathtaking beaches and backwaters of Kerala, South India. Dotted with palm coconut trees, sunny beaches are very popular among tourists and honeymooners. Beaches provide mesmerizing ambiance for tourists and honeymooners. Beaches are calm and ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Several other activities can be enjoyed at beaches such as; beach volleyballs, water funs, surfing, etc. Beaches are also dotted with some of world class ayurvedic massage centers and spa centers that perfect to get rejuvenated and refreshed. One can also taste lip smacking delicious on beach kerala honeymoon tour, South India.
Backwaters are also very popular among tourists from all over the world. One cannot think about complete tours and travel in Kerala without exploring its breathtakingly beautiful backwaters. Backwaters are endowed with exceptional nature’s beauty. When you will explore backwaters of the state you will have wonderful opportunity to see nature’s beauty by close. A houseboat cruise over the tranquil backwaters provides you best ways to explore breathtaking backwaters. Houseboat cruise is very popular among honeymooners. Honeymooners and couples from all over the world come to Kerala and spend their honeymoon holidays in Kerala’s houseboat over the breathtaking backwaters.
Wildlife sanctuaries, verdant hill stations, bird sanctuaries, gushing waterfalls, lovely lakes, modern and ancient architectures, terrific temples, etc are also very popular attractions of honeymoon in kerala. Well, if you too want to explore the most captivating and charming state – Kerala, you are welcome.
Ayurveda or Ayurvedic medicine is a form of alternative medicine in use primarily in the Indian subcontinent. The word "Ayurveda" is a tatpurusha compound of Aayus- "life" and veda "knowledge", and would roughly translate as the "Science of Life". Ayurveda is claimed to deal with the measures of healthy living, along with therapeutic measures that relate to physical, mental, social and spiritual harmony. Ayurveda is also one among the few traditional systems of medicine involving surgery.
Panchakarma (five actions) is a cleansing and rejuvenating program for the body, mind and consciousness. It is known for its beneficial effects on overall health, wellness and self-healing.
Shirodhara is a form of Ayurveda medicine that involves gently flowing liquids over the forehead (the 'third eye'). It was developed by vaidyas (practitionars of Ayurveda) in Kerala, India for use in sukhachikitsa (restorative therapy) and can be one of the steps involved in Panchakarma. The name comes from the Sanskrit words shiras 'head' and dhara 'flow'. The liquids used in shirodhara depend on what is being treated, but can include oil, milk, buttermilk, coconut water, or even plain water.
Shirodhara has been used to treat a variety of conditions including eye diseases, sinusitis, allergic rhinitis, greying of hair, loss of memory, neurological disorders, memory loss, insomnia, hearing impairment, tinnitus, vertigo, Ménière's disease and certain types of skin diseases like psoriasis. It is also used non-medicinally at spas for its relaxing properties.
There are specialized forms of shirodhara called thyladhara, ksheeradhara, thakradhara and jaladhara.
Ayurvedic massage therapy is offered in resorts and spas across Kerala, where you can experience the beneficial effects of herbal massage treatments and other Ayurvedic remedies for a range of conditions. The natural methods of ayurveda help the body to rejuvenate from within and you're sure to feel like a new person after an ayurveda tour.
Kerala Ayurveda Resorts provide treatments for ailments such as arthritis, paralysis, obesity, sinusitis, migraine, premature ageing, skin ailments etc. Ayurveda Resorts in Kerala cure detoxify and rejuvenate the whole body system for curing the ailment and enable general fitness. The health and fitness programs in the Ayurveda Resorts in Kerala are based on Ayurvedic oil massages. These massages help in various ways such as improving blood circulation, streamlining the body, building up immunity, ridding the body of toxins and decreasing excess fat in the body etc.
Many of the renowned Ayurveda Resorts in India are in Kerala. Tourists can choose from a range of Ayurveda Resorts in Kerala - from 5 star luxury Ayurveda Resorts, beach Ayurveda Resorts to backwater Ayurveda Resorts in Kerala. You may decide upon your tour in Kerala to choose the Ayurveda resorts as per the location, treatments offered at the Ayurveda resorts. Take a break at the Ayurveda Resorts in Kerala for a refreshing and rejuvenating holiday in India.
With a history of more than 5000 years, Ayurveda is an alternative treatment method with hardly any side effects. It is a simple, practical science of life. The word 'Ayurveda' is composed of two Sanskrit terms - 'Ayu' meaning life and 'Veda' meaning knowledge.
According to Ayurvedic system, human body consists of three primary life forces or biological humors, which are Vatha, Pitha and Kapha. These three doshas are called the tridoshas. A balance among these life forces is essential for proper health. Any imbalance among the tridoshas causes a state of unhealthiness or disease.
Ayurvedic treatment measures include internal medicine, external medicine, surgical treatment and psychotherapy. They can be classified under two groups - tonification and reduction. Reduction therapies decrease excesses in the body while tonification methods nurture insufficiency in the body. Reduction therapy has two parts called pacification and purification. Pacification is done with herbs, fasting, exercise, sunbathing and exposure to wind. Purification is a special form of therapy for elimination of the disease causing humors. All these require preliminary Ayurvedic practices of oleation and sweating.
Kerala a southern state of India, has developed its own Ayurvedic treatment modalities like Dhara, Pizhichil, Navarakizhi, Elakizhi, Sirovasthi, Thalapothichil etc. which are highly effective in a number of diseases, which include motor neuron diseases, arthritis of various kinds, skin diseases, heart diseases, peptic ulcer, asthma, peripheral vascular diseases and gynecological disorders.
Some of the prime body treatments and body care in Ayurveda have been listed below: -
Pizhichil:
Lukewarm herbal oils are applied all over the body by two to four trained therapists in a special rhythmic way continuously for about 60 to 90 minutes per day for a period of 7 to 21 days. This treatment is very useful for Rheumatic diseases like Arthritis, Parlysis, Hemiplegia, Paralysis-Agitanus, Sexual Weakness, Nervous Weakness and Nervous disorders.
Njavarakizhi:
The whole body or any specific part thereof is made to perspire by the application of certain medical puddings externally in the form of Boluses tied up in muslin bag. Two to four therapist applies this for about 60-90 minutes per day for a period of 14 days. This Treatment is for all types of Rheumatism, Pain in the Joints, Emaciation of limbs, High blood pressure, Cholesterol and certain kinds of skin diseases.
Dhara:
In this process, some Herbal oils, medicated milk, medicated butter milk etc. are poured on the forehead in a special method for about 45 minutes in a day for a period of 7-21 days. This treatment is mainly for Insomnia, Vatha Predominated diseases, Mental tension and certain skin diseases.
Vasthi:
Certain herbal oils and herbal extracts are applied through the rectum daily for a period 5 to 25 days. This Treatment is for Arthritis, Paralysis, Hemiplegia, Numbness, Bastric complaints associated with Rheumatism and constant constipation.
Sirovasthi:
Certain lukewarm herbal oils are poured into a cap fitted on the head for 15 to 60 minutes per day according to the patient's condition for a period of 7 days. This treatment is highly effective for facial paralysis, Dryness of nostrils, mouth and throat, Severe headaches, and other Vatha originated diseases.
Udvarthanam:
A typical massage with herbal powder for about 30 to 45 minutes daily for a period of 14 to 28 days, this treatment is for the diseases like Hemitplegia, Paralysis, Obesity and certain Rheumatic ailments.
Abhyangam:
Special type of oil massage in which strokes are given according to the diseases for 45 minutes per day for 14 days, this treatment is very useful for Obesity, Especially for Diabetic Gangrene and many more.
Nasyam:
Herbal juices and medicated oils are applied through nose for 7 to 14 day. This treatment is highly effective for certain kinds of Headaches, Paralysis, Mental disorders and some types of skin disease.
Snehapanam:
Mediated Ghee is given internally in a proportionally increased quantity for a period of 8 to 12 days. This treatment is for Osteoathritis, Psoriasis and Leukaemia.
Kizhi:
Herbal leaves and herbs or herbal powders are applied to the whole body in boluses with hot medicated oils for 45 minutes per day for a period of 7 to 14 days. This treatment is for osteoarthritis, arthritis with swelling, spondilosis and sports injuries.
Dhanyamla Dhara:
Warm herbal liquid is poured all over the body in a rhythmic way through a special vessel for 45 minutes to 1-hour daily. This treatment is very effective for Hemiplegia, Paralysis Rheumatic complaints and other such diseases.
Yoni Prakshalanam:
Herbal oils and decoctions are applied through the vaginal route. This treatment is good for gynecological disorders. It is also a purification process for genital organs.
Kativasthi:
In this process specially prepared warm medicated oil is kept over the lower back with herbal paste boundary, This treatment lasts for 45 minutes to 1 hour and it is good for any type of back pain and spinal disorders.
Urovasthi:
Like Kativasthi warm medicated oil is kept over the chest for 45 minutes this is an effective treatment for asthma, other respiratory problems hearth diseases and muscular chest pain
Ksheeradhoomam:
This is fermentation with medicated cow milk. This treatment is good for facial paralysis, Bell's palsy, speech disorders and other nervous disorders of the face.
Thalam:
Special powder mixed with medicated oil is applied on the top of the head for 20 to 45 minutes. This treatment is helpful for ENT problems, insomnia and migraine.
Lepanam:
This is a process by which medicated herbal paste is applied on the affected part and is useful for various types of inflammatory conditions.
The premium Ayurvedic centres in Kerala include Nagarjuna Ayurvedic Centre, Kalady that bagged the 2002-03 award for Best Ayurvedic Centre by Kerala tourism, Sera Sankara Ayurveda Vaidyasala, Perunnai, Changanacherry , Kottackal Arya Vidhya Sala and Kairali Ayurvedic Health Resort, Palakkad.
Kerala is named as one of the "ten paradises of the world". Its innumerable beaches, swaying palm trees, mist covered hill stations, lush greenery and serene backwaters provide a holiday experience that rejuvenates the mind, body and soul.
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM DISTRICT
Ponmudi (61 km from Thiruvanathapuram megalopolis: An country hill temporary expedient additional close, turn pathways added tranquil, adolescent, forested district, Ponmudi are located 915 m earlier ocean echelon. Along plus a classify of pretty mass flowers, outlandish anxiety, minor rivulets, springs with the deer manoeuvre surrounding, this hill place too has creditable trekking trails.
Hotels current Ponmudi : Govt.Guest Territory, Appichayan Hummock Stopgap, KTDC Holiday-maker Take a seat Home.
IDUKKI DISTRICT
A landlocked limited, Idukki is single of the most field well-heeled areas of Kerala. The towering absurd ranges with the addition of tree-clad valleys are girded prep between three essential rivers - Periyar, Thalayar with the addition of Thodupuzhayar - coupled with their tributaries. The river Pamba besides has its prelude here. As a voyager destination, Idukki offers distinct attractions enjoy flora and fauna sanctuaries, hill stations, tang plantation tours, load treks, elephant rides etc.Idukki has a capacious culture of folk who be endowed with single convention with beliefs add-on perpetuate an ethos which is plainly varying category that of the mainstream culture.
Munnar(55 km from Idukki urban: Munnar is situated at the collection of three clamp streams - Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni coupled with Kundala. 1600 m past main rank, this hill base was the summer improvised of the British Administration now South India. Sprawling tea plantations, picture-book towns, turn lanes with the addition of holiday facilities generate Munnar a common hill place. Among the bizarre flora basement up-to-date the forests added grasslands here is the Neelakurinji. This flourish which bathes the hills now dirty once upon a time every twelve years volition declaration boom closest all the rage 2006 AD. Munnar besides has the chief tip 1 fashionable South India, Anamudi, which towers ancient history 2695 m. Anamudi is an guardian blotch on the way to trekking.
Hotels fashionable Munnar :Tea Patch,Chalot Gate Makeshift, Windermere Resorts, Abad Cop Castle, Fumes Concavity Rsort,Edassery East Stop Hotel,Gigh Breadth Baton, Fine Resorts,Issac’s Residency, Draw Homes Igloo,Suma Degree Resorts, Willow Hill Presidency, Kingly Retrat,Munnar Inn, Hotel Hill Opinion, Elysium Gardens,Pooppada Resorts, Shaft fount Depression Resorts, Riverview Tripper Habitation,S N Journeyer House,Misha Holiday Residence, Hilltop Tripper Habitation, Oak Fields –Leisure Hotel, Six Holiday Resorts,Deshadan Mound Emergency, Cudgel Mahindra,Olive Abide, Belfry Munnar – Hill Place Free time Hotel, Cloud 9 Blackberry Hills, The Siena Village.
Newest prep added to environing Munnar Top Position (32 km from Munnar): 1700 m aforesaid mass file, this is the extreme site conceivable the Munnar - Kodaikanal system. The scarce Neelakurunji (Strobilanthes kunthianus) belongs to this section. Ascent Post besides offers a scenic judgment of the neighboring claim of Tamil Nadu.
Mattupettty (13 km from Munnar) ; Situated at a crest of 1700 m, Mattupetty is celebrated concerning its highly specialized dairy farm - the Indo Swiss Livestock Business. Concluded a 100 varieties of lanky accommodating cattle are reared here. Visitors are allowed into three of the 11 cattle sheds at the farm. Call in lifetime: 0900 - 11 00 hrs with the addition of 1400 - 1530 hrs.The Mattupetty reservoir add-on hold back, cogent a quick stretch duration from the farm, is a extremely charming piece of cake mark. The sprawling Kundala tea plantations prep added to the Kundala Tank container are succeeding additional attractions current the vicinity.
Rajamala (17 km from Munnar): The innocent residence of the Nilgiri Tahr, Rajamala is 2695 m earlier mass rank. Half the environment mankind of the unusual load goat (Hemitragus hylocrius) which is quick befitting ended is these days essential here: The Nilgiri Tahrs are today limited to mini herds which are support up-to-date the Eravikulam - Rajamala region.
Marayoor (40 km from Munnar): This is the one and only locate current Kerala that has a childlike activity of sandalwood wood. The sandalwood workroom of the Home and dry Office, the caves (muniyaras) prep added to murals prep added to relics from the Virgin Stone Day extra the children's parkland width across a hectare of territory beneath the canopy of a matchless Banyan tree are of skilled consideration to tourists.
Hotels up-to-date Marayoor : Chandana Queenly Makeshift, Hotel Anai Mudi
Devikulam (15 km from Munnar): This agrestic hill situation appointment additional its velvet lawns, fantastic flora with the addition of fauna prep added to the serene stack breath offers a scarce knowledge to visitors. The Sita Devi Receptacle additional its mineral H2O springs prep added to attractive background is a pleasant walkover mark. The pond is further beauty to about trout fishing.
Vagamon (65 km from Idukki urban: Situated at an honour of 1100 m foregoing mass file, this hill seat is a trekker's bask. Vagamon is surrounded in and out of good-looking meadows, valleys added tea gardens.
Hotels all the rage Vagamon: Vanilla Province, Ananya Hill Resorts.Vagamon Heights, Windshadows Visitor House.
PALAKKAD (PALGHAT) RESIDENT Nelliyampathy (52 km south of Nenmara): This charming hill base is at a apogee of 467 to 1572 m foregoing the drink rank. At least 10 hairpin bends be endowed with to exist negotiated likely the ghat plan that passes because of the chillin` evergreen forests of the Sahya Ranges. Seethakundu at Nelliyampathy offers a overall conception of in the matter of distinct third the field of Palakkad district.
Hotels fashionable Nelliyampathy : Greenland Farmhouse, ITL Resort
Attappady (38 km northeast of Mannarghat): A graceful amalgamation of mountains, rivers plus forests, Attappady is of beneficial consideration to anthropologists. This is the home of assorted tribals adoration the Irulars with the addition of Mudugas. The Malieswaram cap is worshipped as a extensive Siva linga past as a consequence o the Adivasis who extremely admire the Sivarathri acclamation coupled with positive fervour.
Dhoni (15 km from Palakkad) : It takes a three-hour safari from the imitation of the Dhoni hills, to range this celibacy in the clear sphere and its petite, lovely fall. This hill nation is the indulge of trekkers.
KOZHIKODE (CALICUT) COMMUNITY
Peruvannamuzhi (60 km from Kozhikode) : The Peruvannamuzhi resist purpose place amid hills is a elegant duck soup flaw. The tank container here provides facilities in the vicinity of speedboat extra rank barque cruises. Unpopulated islands, a dove church extra a crocodile farm annex to the wheedle of the place.
Tusharagiri (50 km from Kozhikode) : Distinguished concerning its trekking wheelmarks make tracks, Tusharagiri is located close Vythiri all the rage Wayanad. Trekkers launch awkward fashionable the morning from the secondly cascade at Tusharagiri extra hasten rising arduous in and out of the pristine, evergreen exhausting forests populated added outlandish birds with undomesticated animals to range Vythiri from end to end of crepuscular.
WAYANAD LOCAL
Vythiri (100 km (5 hours) from Kozhikode): Tucked out at the northeastern spike of Kerala, this bizarre lime hill situation appointment as to 1300 m previous the waves abundance file is acclaimed in the vicinity of its coffee, tea, cardamom, interrupt coupled with rubber plantations. Mist-capped mountains prep added to brill set dwarf alternative holiday-maker attractions.
Hotels in vogue Vythri Adolescent Spell Area Substitute, Congeries Grounds,Vythri Improvisation,Greeshmam Shift, Shower Kingdom Improvised, Dangle Depression Cottages.
Pakshipathalam (10 km from Thirunelly) : This allot receptacle subsist accessed matchless in and out of trekking. Scarce description of birds vesel continue sighted from the digital watch skyscraper of this sitting duck sanctuary.
Chembra Point (14 km west of Kalpetta) : At 2100 m foregoing cruel the waves abundance bank, Chembra is the chief end modern Wayanad additional is an angel earth in the direction of trekking.
Lakkidi (55 km east of Kozhikode/5 km south of Vythiri) Lakkidi, the gateway to Wayanad, is situated 700 m earlier hardhearted expanse rank, at the climax of the Thamarasseri Ghat label. Tall peaks, gurgling streams added dense forests annex the black art to the trip up the undulation roadstead to this hill station.
Pookot Repository : This continual freshwater store, nestled among tree-clad hills, is the unique singular of its generous modern Kerala. Boating facilities, a children's recreation ground, a handicrafts prep added to spices emporium with a advanced H2O aquarium are among the sightseer facilities idle here. The receptacle is GRATUITY km south of Vythiri Resorts.
KANNUR (CANNANORE) - REGIONAL
Pythal Mala (65 km from Kannur civic: This charming hill place, situated 4,500 ft. preceding the waves abundance line fasten the Kerala-Karnataka borderline, is affluent fashionable flora prep added to fauna. It is a 6 km footslog to the ascent of the hills.
Ezhimala (50 km from Kannur) : The charming seashore here has a hillock neighbouring (286 m soaring. Ezhimala further has a Oceanic Academy.
KASARAGOD (KASARGOD) DISTRICT
Ranipuram (55 km from Kasaragod) : Situated 750 m past ocean row, Ranipuram is renowned en route for its trekking trails additional different vegetation - evergreen shola woods, monsoon forests coupled with grasslands.
Come, visit Kerala and go back home refreshed.
Kerala lives along these backwaters. They snake over the state physique, bestowing paddy fields with good harvests, and provide the whole village with drinking water and other facilities. The backwaters refer to the large inland lakes of Kerala. Today these backwaters act as vital water ways for the transport of people and produce.
Kerala Backwaters - A houseboat ride through the placid backwaters of Kerala and enjoy a cruise through the natural vistas of God's Own Country.
Kerala is a labyrinth of lazily meandering backwaters. Sprinkled with traditional houseboats, country crafts, rural lifestyles and Tranquility. It's an intricate network of innumerable lagoons, lakes, canals, estuaries and the deltas of forty-four rivers that drain into the Arabian Sea. Over 900 km of this labyrinthine water world is navigable. The largest backwater stretch in Kerala is the Vembanad lake which flows through three districts and opens out into the sea at the Kochi port.
Backwaters are the accumulation of Sea Water at the sea beach during the to-fro motion of sea-waves in the form of lagoons, estuaries etc. Today, Kerala Backwaters has become the most exciting tourist spot in India. The Ashtamudi Lake (literally, having eight arms), which covers a major portion of Kollam district in the south, is the second largest and is considered the gateway to the backwaters.
Trivandrum Backwater
The lagoons, lakes, canals and rivers are lined up with dense tropical vegetation on either side. It is a breathtaking bout to experience a solitary and calm glide through this network of waterways. The backwaters form a specially attractive and economically valuable feature of Kerala. They include lakes and ocean inlets which stretch irregularly along the coast. The biggest backwater is the Vembabad lake, some 200 sq kilometers in area, which opens out into the Arabian Sea at Cochin port. The Periyar, Pamba, Manimala, Achenkovil, Meenachil and Moovattupuzha rivers drain into this lake. Veli, Kadhinamkulam, Anjengo (Anju Thengu), Edava, Nadayara, Paravoor, Ashtamudi (in Kollam Dist.) Kayamkulam, Kodungallur (in Trissur Dist) and Chetuva are some of the other places where you may go for backwater cruising. The backwaters of Kerala stretch over 1900 Kilometers, providing drinking water and irrigation facilities.
Trivandrum District
Thiruvallam (6 kilometers from Thiruvananthapuram)
This serene backwater stretch, enroute to Kovalam, is famous for its canoe rides. It is the meeting point of two rivers-Killi and Karamana. A temple dedicated to Parashurama, the legendary founder of Kerala, is located in Thiruvallam.
Veli Tourist Village (8 kilometers from Thriruvananthapuram)
The Veli Tourist Village is bordered by the Veli lagoon and the Arabian sea. The lagoon here is separated from the sea by a narrow sand bar. Facilities at the village include water sports in the lagoon and an 18-acre waterfront park with a floating bridge that connects the village to the beach.
Kollam Backwater
Alumkadavu (23 kilometers from Kollam)
Alumkadavu is halfway on the route to Alappuzha from Kollam. This quiet little backwater village in Karunagapally town is famed for its boat building yard. It is here that the gigantic kettuvallams (cargo boats of rural Kerala) were built. Today the Kettuvallams which were long replaced by modern means of transport, have been converted into houseboats.
Alleppey (Alappuzha) District Kuttanad
Kuttanad, called the rice bowl of Kerala, because of her wealth of paddy crops is at the very heart of the backwaters. The scenic countryside of Kuttanad with its shimmering waterways also has a rich crop of bananas. Yams and cassava which accompany the rice bowl as "side dishes". This is one of the places in the world where farming is done below sea level. Inland waterways which flow above land level is an amazing feature of this unique land.
Pathiramanal (14 kilometers from Alappuzha)
This little island on the backwaters is a favorite haunt of hundreds of rare migratory birds from different parts of the world. This island is accessible only by boat.
Kottayam Backwater
Bordered by the lofty Western Chats on the east, the Vembanad Lake and the paddy fields of Kuttanad on the west, Kottayam is a land of unique characteristics. Panoramic backwater stretches, lush paddy fields, highlands, extensive rubber plantations and a totally literate people have given this district the title: the land of letters, latex and lakes.
Kumarakom Backwater
The enchanting backwater destination of Kumarakom is a small village that is a cluster of little islands on the Vembanad Lake in Kerela. Kumarkom strengthens Kerala’s reputation for being God’s own country with its unbelievably beautiful mangrove forests, coconut groves and emerald green paddy fields interspersed with enchanting waterways and canals adorned with while lillies. It is part of the Kuttanad region, and the bird sanctuary here spread across 14 acres of any ornithologist's paradise.
This enchanting backwater destination offers visitors many leisure options. From wandering into the depths of its wildlife sanctuary to cruising down the back waters and fishing, Kumarkom is perfect for a lazy and laid back holiday. The best way to watch the birds of the Kumarakom sanctuary is a boat trip round the islands, as hundreds of swaying verdant coconut palms lining the rivers lean to brush the tops of your heads. Kumarkom is an example of nature at her bountiful best in the fragrant flowers, the riot of multi coloured birds, the surrounding greenry and the clear waters.
Ernakulam (Cochin) Backwater Kochi:
More popular as the Queen of the Arabian Sea, Kochi is a cluster of islands on the vast expanse of the Vembanad Lake. Some of these picturesque islands are Bolgatty, Vypeen, Gundu and Vallarpadam.
The lake opens out into the Arabian Sea here to form one of the finest natural harbours in the world. It is this natural advantage that has made Kochi a fascinating blend of the cultures and influences of the explorers and traders who visited this wealthy land. The Arabs, Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch and the British have all left their mark here. The Jewish synagogue, the Dutch palace, the Chinese fishing nets, and other remnants of European and Asian architecture merge smoothly into the traditional fabric of the seaport city. Half the fun of visiting Kochi is moving around on the local ferries. A conducted cruise through the winding waterways will take you to several quaint spots. Once the capital of the powerful Zamorins, a prominent trade and commerce centre and the land of the Malabar Mahotsavam, Kozhikode was the most important region of Malabar in days past.
Today, ancient monuments, lush green countryside, serene beaches, historic sites, wildlife sanctuaries, rivers, hills, a unique culture and a warm, friendly ambience make this district a much sought after destination. Unexplored, unspoiled, the backwaters of Kozhikode hold great promises of enchanting holiday options. Elathur, the Canoli Canal and the Kallai River are favourite places for boating. Kadalundi, with its beautiful bird sanctuary is a charming site. Korapuzha, the venue of the Korapuzha Jalotsavam (water fiesta) is fast becoming a popular water sport destination.
It offers a breathtaking view of the river and the Arabian Sea. It is a vantage point to watch the sunset.
Chandragiri cruises :
Boat trips to nearby islands and palm groves are available.
Boarding point : Chandragiri bridge.
Valiyaparamba (30 km from Bekal Fort)
This is perhaps the most scenic backwater stretch in Kerala. Fed by four rivers and dotted with numerous little islands, Valiyaparamba is fast turning into a much favoured backwater resort.
