The God's Own Country : Tourism Thread [Archive]

navjot

June 10th, 2011, 02:41 PM

The Marvel Called Kerala…

If there is one place in the riveting diversity of India where there is tangible beauty and a phenomenal thing like total literacy, it is in Kerala. Kerala is a state full of good things. This small state at the southern tip of the Indian peninsula is an easy winner owing to its beautiful landscape, intriguing customs, high-intensity cultural life and an educated public so often dressed in white. From Kasargode to Thiruvananthapuram, the state in choc-a-bloc with places that attract tourists and travellers from all over the world.

Kerala is one of the best tourist destinations in India. It is visited by tourists from around the world. And beautiful and attractive, with exceptional beauty of nature that the plant can be more tourist heavy fall in love. Well, if you are looking for a destination blessed with nature, then the state of Kerala is the place for you. Visit and this condition is to make sure I would love to come back again and visit hit inspired by the beauty of nature.

Not anywhere in the world can enjoy the charm and remote areas, but in Kerala can enjoy delicious. One of the most important and witchcraft are in remote areas of the state of Kerala Tourism idol. In this case, there are some gaps in the destination you can enjoy delicious cruise barge. Kovalam, Alleppey, Kollam, Fort Kochi, Kumarakom are just some of the most beautiful destinations and charming stagnant state of Kerala. These gaps with attractive landscapes and historical sites are equipped with terribly Temple alien languages, and romantic waterfalls, emerald green rice fields and many other sites and charming inspiration awesome.

This thread is exclusively for promoting and projecting the tourist destinatins of Kerala, sharing pictures, travel information, travelogues, news, accommodation and eatery infos at tourist places, hotel reviews etc..

I request evryone to bless this thread with valuable info about the magnificent tourist destinations you have visited esp in your own districts and request everyone's cooperation.....

Reghu

June 10th, 2011, 02:59 PM

sakrishna

June 10th, 2011, 08:29 PM

Thanks for the thread Navjyoth. We'll showcase all the Tourism hotspots of Kerala in this thread, right from Kasaragod to Trivandrum.

mohammedirshad06

June 10th, 2011, 08:47 PM

So I start the thread from Kasargod itself.

Rannipuram, in Kasargod is an unexplored hill station located between Kerala-Karnataka border

Rannipuram is often dubbed as Poor Man's Ooty or Ooty of Kasargod, is a beautiful solitude place famous for its trekking and adventure trails. Part of Shola forest ranges, the place is famous its elephant herds and deers....

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/80/278188660_1c73086a2e.jpg

http://www.keralatourism.org/images/shooting/RANIPURAM.jpg

The hill ranges has small peaks, grasslands, evergreen tropical forests which merges with Thalakavery Wildlife sanctuary of Karnataka

http://www.indiamike.com/india/attachments/12945d1269378135-trip-report-trek-to-unexplored-ranipuram-ranipuram-grass-land.jpg

http://www.indiamike.com/india/attachments/12949d1269378210-trip-report-trek-to-unexplored-ranipuram-05.jpg

http://www.indiamike.com/india/attachments/12954d1269378446-trip-report-trek-to-unexplored-ranipuram-19.jpg

http://www.indiamike.com/india/attachments/12961d1269453912-trip-report-trek-to-unexplored-ranipuram-177.jpg

http://www.indiamike.com/india/attachments/12962d1269453912-trip-report-trek-to-unexplored-ranipuram-ranipuram_-top.jpg

The star attraction is the Mannikallu, is strong rock formation on top of a peak, which is any trekker's best thrills.....

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_F6EG6JxhAcw/SSTyjO3YFiI/AAAAAAAAAIM/RyKbelBgZuU/s1600/Slide10.JPG

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_F6EG6JxhAcw/SSTzRK0cubI/AAAAAAAAAIc/y1DURuWIY5w/s1600/Slide8.JPG

The location map of Rannipuram and proposed Rannipuram National park

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_F6EG6JxhAcw/SSTxFrCC5sI/AAAAAAAAAH8/MXwKReMxl4Q/s1600/Slide3.JPG

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_F6EG6JxhAcw/SSTy_UJLjHI/AAAAAAAAAIU/D9Cidgl-aVQ/s1600/Slide2.JPG
:banana::banana::banana:

mohammedirshad06

June 12th, 2011, 08:18 PM

In a state, that is criss crossed with 41 rivers, 3 mega lakes, endless number of streams, lagoons, all bordered with mighty Arabian sea, its pieces of land sandwiched between water and sky

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2609/3849390192_30d4f64d35_z.jpg?zz=1
cc:30595286@N03

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/86/246054857_a98ea7c04c_z.jpg
CC:drtonygeorge

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5209/5241247271_2a0aff4503_z.jpg
cc: rammorrison

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3141/2818660647_744ebfc5a8_z.jpg
cc:anntatti

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3234/2377649088_ce18bcd979_z.jpg
cc:deldrago

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4004/4375464954_87b66d28fa_z.jpg
cc:asmine

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2697/4083260932_826ff6cbba_z.jpg?zz=1
cc:mytripsmypics

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5105/5802722427_be1347f3fe_z.jpg
cc:gulfu

navjot

June 13th, 2011, 07:52 AM

http://lh6.ggpht.com/-uuX2k9DfLeQ/S-6Adi6N7FI/AAAAAAAAAJw/Wfxn5ce12vI/Image00c3.jpg

http://lh6.ggpht.com/-tojL39PSwio/S-6Ael05BNI/AAAAAAAAAJw/1CdORcZu1qs/Image00.jpg

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http://lh3.ggpht.com/-WNraoi7NPL0/S-6Agc7ne_I/AAAAAAAAAJw/cFH1bJfATpY/Image0232.jpg

The sprawling tea estates

http://lh6.ggpht.com/-RtiXomRyYEE/S-6AioRVaoI/AAAAAAAAAJw/WtT-dZ8a2iY/Image028d.3.jpg

http://lh3.ggpht.com/-1VYaSUx9tCY/S-6Ajk0mEcI/AAAAAAAAAJw/618kjHLVS_k/Image029.jpg

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http://lh6.ggpht.com/-o7DallDdQDs/S-6ArV72D6I/AAAAAAAAAJw/p22poo-lx-I/s640/Image124.jpg

http://lh6.ggpht.com/-H5qLxW4jYSQ/S-6BSYw6xUI/AAAAAAAAAJw/gbtar3F_YJ0/s720/3%252520copy%2525203.jpg

Neelakurunjis at eravikulam national park

http://lh4.ggpht.com/-vlbyANnS11s/S-6BcF4xnQI/AAAAAAAAAJw/t4pYzBpiLVA/s720/5%252520copy%2525203.jpg

http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Tfi27yuUe0Y/S-6BsfD5PzI/AAAAAAAAAJw/JjFHXdflDnI/s720/6%252520copy.jpg

http://lh6.ggpht.com/-cI14OoCNmSw/S-6BkPkfB9I/AAAAAAAAAJw/_pSdaps4vWc/s720/5.jpg

Munnar is the most beautiful place i've ever visited.... better than darjeeling................

(c) Suresh

navjot

June 13th, 2011, 07:56 AM

ajithv

June 13th, 2011, 03:51 PM

hTHnn_zfEhA

ajithv

June 13th, 2011, 03:53 PM

9rOvOJ9fabE

ajithv

June 13th, 2011, 03:56 PM

XK5BkO83D0E

ajithv

June 13th, 2011, 04:10 PM

DEL

sanjupalayat

June 13th, 2011, 08:18 PM

U0tYqggXJ44

Kalaripayattu dates back to at least the 12th century CE. The historian Elamkulam Kunjan Pillai attributes the birth of kalarippayattu to an extended period of warfare between the Cheras and the Cholas in the 11th century CE. From the 11th or 12th century the right and duty to practice the martial art in the service of a ruler was most associated with specific subgroups of Nairs; however, at least one subcaste of Brahmins, as well as some Christians and Muslims were given this right and duty.

In addition, a special subcaste of Thiyyas called Chekavar's were engaged to fight in ankam, public duels to the death to solve disputes between higher caste opposing parties. Among at least some Nair and Tiyya families, young girls also received preliminary training up until the onset of menses. We also know from the vadakkan pattukal ballads that at least a few women of noted Nair and Tiyya masters continued to practise and achieved a high degree of expertise. Ankam were fought on an ankathattu, a temporary platform, four to six feet high, purpose-built for ankam.

mohammedirshad06

June 13th, 2011, 09:52 PM

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5172/5457469031_202d3ba701_b.jpg
CC:Lijo Jain

Vagamon- Kottayam

Scotland of India, with its famous large meadows and para-gilding activities.

Xeno Axe

June 16th, 2011, 07:11 AM

Ezhimala, Kannur

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3236/2735441086_3182df931f.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/9247230@N02/2735441086/)
Ezhimala 3 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/9247230@N02/2735441086/) by radhkrishna (http://www.flickr.com/people/9247230@N02/), on Flickr

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4145/5201906170_508693d8b8_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/neolight/5201906170/)
Scenic Beach of Ezhimala (http://www.flickr.com/photos/neolight/5201906170/) by Neo Light (http://www.flickr.com/people/neolight/), on Flickr

Xeno Axe

June 16th, 2011, 08:09 AM

Edakkal Caves, Wayanad

1,200 metres above sea level

The Stone Age carvings of Edakkal are rare and are the only known examples from south India.

Inside the caves are pictorial writings believed to be dating to at least 5000 BC, from the Neolithic man

The caves were accidentally discovered by Fred Fawcett, a police official of the erstwhile Malabar state in 1890 who immediately recognized their anthropological and historical importance. He subsequently wrote an article about them, attracting the attention of scholars.

Surrounding views from the cave
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3246/2673376806_302cf26ebf_z.jpg?zz=1 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/kummatti/2673376806/)
View from Edakkal Caves (http://www.flickr.com/photos/kummatti/2673376806/) by Kummatti (http://www.flickr.com/people/kummatti/), on Flickr

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2298/2158073522_c8eb179462_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/9727971@N05/2158073522/)
Edakkal Caves (http://www.flickr.com/photos/9727971@N05/2158073522/) by Shobanbabu (http://www.flickr.com/people/9727971@N05/), on Flickr

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2298/2158073078_2b14ecdac0_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/9727971@N05/2158073078/)
Edakkal Caves (http://www.flickr.com/photos/9727971@N05/2158073078/) by Shobanbabu (http://www.flickr.com/people/9727971@N05/), on Flickr

Trekking into the caves
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2631/4237453973_4e07cc7219_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/harish_mallipeddi/4237453973/)
Edakkal Caves (http://www.flickr.com/photos/harish_mallipeddi/4237453973/) by Harish Mallipeddi (http://www.flickr.com/people/harish_mallipeddi/), on Flickr

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2504/4068521991_81d6a16e10_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ursathi/4068521991/)
0654-IMG_4659(@Edakkal Caves, Wayanad) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ursathi/4068521991/) by Athi S (http://www.flickr.com/people/ursathi/), on Flickr

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3562/4068498671_e4f59c027b_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ursathi/4068498671/)
0652-IMG_4597(@Edakkal Caves, Wayanad) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ursathi/4068498671/) by Athi S (http://www.flickr.com/people/ursathi/), on Flickr

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3196/2719442254_437849a80c_z.jpg?zz=1 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/kummatti/2719442254/)
Edakkal Caves Trek (http://www.flickr.com/photos/kummatti/2719442254/) by Kummatti (http://www.flickr.com/people/kummatti/), on Flickr

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3075/2719442266_5f170f2903_z.jpg?zz=1 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/kummatti/2719442266/)
Edakkal Caves Trek (http://www.flickr.com/photos/kummatti/2719442266/) by Kummatti (http://www.flickr.com/people/kummatti/), on Flickr

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3159/2719442264_0dde88502d_z.jpg?zz=1 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/kummatti/2719442264/)
Edakkal Caves Trek (http://www.flickr.com/photos/kummatti/2719442264/) by Kummatti (http://www.flickr.com/people/kummatti/), on Flickr

Inside the caves
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/119/312845517_2527f1ea27_z.jpg?zz=1 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/sujith/312845517/)
Edakkal Caves.. (http://www.flickr.com/photos/sujith/312845517/) by J.Sujith Regan (http://www.flickr.com/people/sujith/), on Flickr

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4037/4171865011_be375abf92_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/45431294@N06/4171865011/)
Cave Wonder (169) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/45431294@N06/4171865011/) by wondercaves (http://www.flickr.com/people/45431294@N06/), on Flickr

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1362/1346776811_7639fa3bc1_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/sabarishr/1346776811/)
Edakkal Caves (http://www.flickr.com/photos/sabarishr/1346776811/) by sabarishr (http://www.flickr.com/people/sabarishr/), on Flickr

The Stone Age carvings
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4038/4199019445_9876dc8a54_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinayakh/4199019445/)
Edakkal Caves (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinayakh/4199019445/) by VinayakH (http://www.flickr.com/people/vinayakh/), on Flickr

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2736/4130377050_91ef80471c_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/shyamk/4130377050/)
edakkal-caves-2 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/shyamk/4130377050/) by shyamk (http://www.flickr.com/people/shyamk/), on Flickr

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1264/1346734291_f66859214f_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/sabarishr/1346734291/)
Edakkal Caves (http://www.flickr.com/photos/sabarishr/1346734291/) by sabarishr (http://www.flickr.com/people/sabarishr/), on Flickr

Sali_varakkal

June 16th, 2011, 02:58 PM

A good service, guess recently launced.
You can book tickets at Makemytrip for this bus.
This will be a replacement for the KINGFISHER Flight that used to connect Calicut and Goa.

And nice thread to share tourism related stuff

sakrishna

June 18th, 2011, 06:40 PM

Pic (c) g sivaprasad @ flickr

http://item.slide.com/r/1/112/i/KDpiJ9Et1D8RpIouDS6XaaCmqCPBcLLu/

Xeno Axe

June 18th, 2011, 06:47 PM

^^Garudan Hanging???

sakrishna

June 18th, 2011, 06:54 PM

^^Garudan Hanging???

Yup. It is a ritual art performed in Kali/Devi Temples. In Malayalam, it is called 'Garudan Thookkam'. It is common in Ernakulam, Kottayam and Alappuzha districts. Don't know it is also performed in Pathanamthitta district.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Garudan_Thookkam

Garudan Thookkam (Eagle Hanging) is a ritual art form performed in Kali temples of south Kerala, south India. The people who dress up as Garuda perform the dance. After the dance performance, the hang-designate dangle from a shaft hooking the skin on his back. In some places, the ritual is performed colorfully with Garudas taken in a procession on bullock carts or boats or hand pulled carts. It will be available in Devi temple during the festival of Meena bharani and Pathamudayam in Thiruvanchoor in Kottayam district.
Legend has it that even after slaying Darika, Kali remained insatiable and thirsty. At this time Vishnu sent Garuda to Kali to quench the thirst. A dancing and bleeding Garuda was taken to Kali and only after getting some drops of blood from Garuda, Kali was pacified. The ritual is performed based on this belief.
Garudan Thookam is submitted as a reward for the problems solved in the abode of Goddess Kali. This is more popular in the areas of Travancore and Kochi. There is a famous Garudan Thookam at the Elamkavu Devi temple at Vadayar in Vaikkom taluk of Kottayam district. During the Aswathi, Bharanthi days of Meenam Month (Malayalam), more than 40 to 50 numbers of Garudan in the Thooka chadus, decorated and floated in thoni vallams (big country-boats), travel behind the Attuvela - a wooden structure constructed in the form of a three storied building which is considered as the floating temple of the Goddess Kali in the Moovattupuzha river. This is one of the best sights, with illuminated Structures. After the night long performance with the help of scores of chenda experts, the Garudans - bleeding after the Choondakuthal (Piercing of the skin on their back with a sharp metal hook) will be hung on a tall pedestal-like structure and taken thrice around the temple by the devotees. This is seen at the Pazhaveedu temple at Alappuzha district. But here the performance is done on a chariot-like structure on the road.
It is also done during Kumbha Bharani day , Airapuram Temple at Perumbavoor near Ernakulam used to host more than 100 Garudan Thookam onKumbha Bharani day

Xeno Axe

June 19th, 2011, 06:37 AM

"Garudan Thookkam" is common in Thiruvananthapuram district also. It was performed in almost all Kali temples. (In Chirayinkeezhu Taluk. Don't know about other taluks).

Sarkara Devi temple (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sarkara_Devi_Temple) is famous among them. Here is a link: about the temple (http://achus-chl-sarkara.blogspot.com/2010/12/meena-bharani-meenabharani-festival-is_25.html)

Some images from the blog.
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_mMiwS5n1EMM/TRXnh2DZ2xI/AAAAAAAAAd4/9bBWUpuTKtc/s400/T.jpghttp://1.bp.blogspot.com/_mMiwS5n1EMM/TRXno7_OODI/AAAAAAAAAeA/JBmMyUR6APo/s400/thukam.jpg

Actually, the picture you posted confused me.:nuts: I expected the picture of people hanging in the cart. Also the costumes vary here.:)

Anyways, thanks for the detailed reply. :cheers1:

sakrishna

June 19th, 2011, 07:54 AM

^^

Thanks for the info. I think, in certain places effigies are used, not sure though. Is the one shown above an effigy?

Xeno Axe

June 19th, 2011, 08:22 AM

^^ No. It's not an effigy. :)

jayadevan_c

June 19th, 2011, 08:34 AM

A travelogue from Mathrubhumi Yathra

http://www.mathrubhumi.com/yathra/destination/kerala/article/132237/index.html

sanjupalayat

June 21st, 2011, 10:57 AM

Nithyanada Kotta, Hosdurg, the Fort is in decay due to lack of maintenance.

http://img827.imageshack.us/img827/9533/dsc0802p.jpg

http://img717.imageshack.us/img717/9670/dsc0803p.jpg

http://img707.imageshack.us/img707/6330/dsc0807u.jpg

http://img691.imageshack.us/img691/3619/dsc0808e.jpg

sanjupalayat

June 24th, 2011, 12:55 PM

Bavuppara Maha Shiva Temple in Kozhikode

QfExDZ1ecQ8

sakrishna

June 24th, 2011, 02:03 PM

Pic (c) esjithin @ Panoramio

http://item.slide.com/r/1/274/i/UKY7eVj14j9MBhoq8HZcwvMQ0UIsZTc8/
http://item.slide.com/r/1/162/i/3cq88VMk5T8l2u0_XrxyTg6JvqgOllpH/
http://item.slide.com/r/1/118/i/1PEEKMDk7z-xn5QYR6H6hBC4Z4wRt8wk/
http://item.slide.com/r/1/132/i/ApCPtrkc6z_I_7WToKaXrk8F08XHdsj9/
http://item.slide.com/r/1/180/i/iNc9atL85j9B0j2Va0B16MpUWn1U3IYV/
http://item.slide.com/r/1/9/i/pxQUzIUQ6j-qvyG5o16xga7ZOz7cGRXq/

navjot

June 30th, 2011, 08:14 AM

Tourists flocking to Alappuzha year-round

http://www.hindu.com/2011/06/30/images/2011063061350301.jpg
Foreign tourists on bikes at Alappuzha

ALAPPUZHA: The concept of a tourist season in the backwaters of the State is changing, what with the entire world in a seemingly year-long holidaying mood.

The definitions of a typical tourist season in Alappuzha, known the world over for its combination of sunny beachside resorts and scenic backwaters, were hitherto restricted to the five-month period from October to February. That was when the word tourist in these parts referred only to foreigners. They also looked similar, trooping in with heavy backpacks, cameras slung around the neck, bottled water in hand and wide-brimmed straw hats.

Now, the scene has changed. The October-February bracketing is gone. Except when the rain is heavily beating down in June and July, there are tourists everywhere in Alappuzha. The looks too have changed. The foreign ones include high-flying businessmen, large groups who drop in during worldwide tours, fun-hunting youngsters on motorbikes, bicycles and even autorickshaws, and then, more than ever, there is a heavy influx of domestic tourists as well.

According to All Kerala Houseboat Owners' Association general secretary Jomon Konnackapally, it has been the increase in the number of domestic tourists that changed the face of backwater tourism in Alappuzha. At the same time, the role played by the changing face of tourism across the world - making travel affordable to more people – too is not being ruled out.

“They come round the year, and from all over India, thus doing away with the concept of an off-season for tourism in Alappuzha,” he says, adding that to cover the only two dull months, June and July, efforts are on to promote monsoon tourism on the backwaters.

The official figures from 2009 onwards validate what he and the other tourist operators here say. In 2009, there were 33,493 foreign tourists who reached Alappuzha, along with 1,64,223 domestic tourists.

In 2010, the number of foreigners jumped to 38,510, despite the global economic slowdown, while that of domestic tourists shot up to 1,83,929.

In 2011, so far, there is a 4.5 per cent jump in the number of foreigners already while in that of domestic tourists, the jump is by seven per cent. And this is just when the Nehru Trophy Boat Race and other popular boat races are just around the corner. The recently approved halt for the Rajdhani Express in Alappuzha too is expected help the tourist inflow this year further.

The Hindu

navjot

July 3rd, 2011, 06:35 AM

http://www.hindu.com/2011/06/30/images/2011063065270301.jpg

The move by the Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) to position itself as the gateway to the State is set to advance further with the government nod to initiate the proposal of a waterway connecting the airport with the seaport in Kochi.

“Once it opens up, a ride along this scenic route will make up an integral part of the itinerary of all the backpackers landing here,” said a senior airport official. It will also play a key role in developing the activity of ‘cruise exchange' and expand the airport's core product of aircraft landings, he said.

Cruise exchange

According to the official, there was also a plan for CIAL to hold discussions with the DP World officials to strike a deal in the segment of cruise exchange in an effort to draw more chartered aircraft operators to Kochi. Further, it is also working on a proposal to promote the route by establishing working partnerships with tour operators and other key stakeholders in the sector.

“These proposals are on a liquid stage but initial studies point to a great demand for this route from tourists as it offers sight-seeing right from their landing at the airport,” he said.

As per the statistics available with CIAL, tourist movements accounted about 60 per cent of passenger movement in the domestic and 20 per cent of the international sector. This numbers are set to increase further with the opening of a proposed air-route connecting the five west coast airports including Kochi.

According to tourism sources at the airport, the 49.5-km-long waterway will open up an alternative route for the tourists from Nedumbassery to Alappuzha, a favourite backwater destination.

The Inland Waterways Authority of India, in a survey, has divided the route into three stretches —from the Seaport to Eloor, from Eloor to Kanjoor and from Kanjoor to the airport.

While the primary reach of 23 km is already a part of the National Waterway 3 and will require no improvement, some up gradation works will have to be carried out to develop the second stretch of 26 km through the Periyar.

The final stretch through the Chengalthodu, an extremely silted up tributary of the Periyar, is the most important part that interlinks the airport to the river. The study also envisages the construction of a passenger jetty and a terminal building of 2,000 sq.ft. with all the luxury passenger amenities.

Meanwhile, the IATA Agents Association of India state president P.R Bose has requested the government to extend the water transport facility from Kanjoor to places like Kalady and Malayatoor.

According to him, the move will give a great opportunity to develop tourism in these areas along with developing a waterway transport system in the Periyar.

navjot

July 7th, 2011, 08:40 AM

w_EUS7a80D0

navjot

July 10th, 2011, 08:00 AM

http://www.thehindu.com/multimedia/dynamic/00689/10tv_Karithodu_jpg__689834f.jpg

The Karithode waterfalls in the tenth ward of Udumbanchola gram panchayat in Idukki district mesmerises visitors. The falls, less steep when compared to other waterfalls, have three layers which are stretched over an area of more than 350 feet. The top of the falls can be reached easily.

It is a hidden treasure for nature lovers who want to spend time away from the routine life. The area may not offer the best facilities; but there are many regular visitors who choose the spot for its offbeat charm. The stream is in full strength, owing to the monsoon, and local people say that the fall is near full strength for almost seven months. Even during the summer, people visit the place to bathe in the falls.

The Parathode river's name is being changed to Karithode falls, whose beauty lies in its three-layer flow.

This water fall is 13 km from Nedumkandam on the Munnar-Thekkady route. Considering its tourism potential, the Nedumkandam gram panchayat had constructed a 10-km-road, though the rest of it is in a not motorable. This does not stop the trekkers who visit the falls.

With the completion of the construction work of the Mavady-Perinchamkutty road, the falls will become a potential tourism spot, says Unni, a local resident.

He said that the residents in the area have submitted a proposal to the panchayat to make a motorable road upto the waterfall. The waterfall could be developed as a stop-over for tourists visiting Munnar and Thekkady.

Though other tourism spots are identified for development, Karithode remains a hidden spot that is not mentioned in the long list of lesser known tourism places in the district.

Earlier, there was a proposal to make it a mini hydropower unit. Though 12 acres of land covering the water fall had been acquired for the project and fenced in 2006, no follow-up action was taken. Once it is developed as a hydropower station, it will become inaccessible to visitors and so, the local people want to keep its natural beauty intact.

navjot

July 10th, 2011, 05:42 PM

http://flashnewstoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/santhigiri.jpg

http://santhigiriashram.com/PARNASALA/IMAGES/PARNASALA/parnasala_bar.gif

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http://santhigiriashram.com/ASHRAMGALLERY/Parnasala/parnasalalatestphotos/gallery/parnasala_12.jpg

The structure, standing at 91 feet tall and 84 feet diameter is one of the largest of its kind in the world. The shrine constructed in the shape of a lotus in full bloom has 12 petals (representing Twelve ‘Rasi’) in the top, 9 petals (representing nine ‘Griham’) towards its base and 27 pillars (representing 27 'Nakshatrams'). Each petal in the top with 41 feet height, and each base petal with 31 feet height exhibits an exceptional architectural skill compared to its contemporaries. It is indeed a new and varied experience to take a bird's eye view from the sky- a lotus in the colour of purity blooming amidst a green sea composed of the big trees and dense vegetation of the Ashram; with its white petals taking a peek in between beautiful blue clouds

mohammedirshad06

July 10th, 2011, 07:07 PM

http://flashnewstoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/santhigiri.jpg

The structure, standing at 91 feet tall and 84 feet diameter is the largest of its kind in the world. The shrine constructed in the shape of a lotus in full bloom has 12 petals (representing Twelve ‘Rasi’) in the top, 9 petals (representing nine ‘Griham’) towards its base and 27 pillars (representing 27 'Nakshatrams'). Each petal in the top with 41 feet height, and each base petal with 31 feet height exhibits an exceptional architectural skill compared to its contemporaries. It is indeed a new and varied experience to take a bird's eye view from the sky- a lotus in the colour of purity blooming amidst a green sea composed of the big trees and dense vegetation of the Ashram; with its white petals taking a peek in between beautiful blue clouds

Largest? Is it larger than Delhi's Lotus temple? From the pic, I don't think so. Don't know whether its much larger in direct.....

navjot

July 11th, 2011, 04:16 AM

Largest? Is it larger than Delhi's Lotus temple? From the pic, I don't think so. Don't know whether its much larger in direct.....

Well apparently it's not... The height of Bahai Mandir is 42m/138 feet whereas this one's 91 feet/28m......

But the Ashram authorities claim that this1 is the largest.......

navjot

July 12th, 2011, 11:02 AM

One of the must visit for Wayanad Kalpetta tourists is Glass temple Koottamundu. This is a traditional Jain temple built attractively. The Glass temple Koottamundu is on the hill side of Vellarimala. Vellarimala is a part of the magnificent Western Ghats. Vellarimala is a high hill range of Camel's Hump Mountains. The majority of Vellarimala hill ranges falls in the Meppady Forest Range. Meppady forest range is of South Wayanad Kalpetta. The main attraction of this place is adventure trekking.

This Glass Temple Koottamundu is a Jain temple built to honor the Jain saint, Parshawanatha Swami. Parshawanatha swami is one among the most popular Jain saints. The specialty of the Glass temple is the thousands of mirrors placed on the inner wall of the temple. These glass mirrors reflect the idols placed in the main hall of the temple. The view of idols in the mirrors is splendid. This fabulous piece of architecture attracts many tourists.

The Glass Temple Kottamundu is twenty kilometer far from Wayanad Kalpetta. The major attraction in this temple is the reflection of icons in the temple's sanctum sanatorium in the mirrors. Inside the temple there is divine serenity. Once you enter the temple you feel eternal peace. You can meditate well in the peaceful atmosphere. This is really an excellent venue for religious and pious people. Other tourists and multicultural guests also enjoy this temple atmosphere. This Glass temple Koottamundu is one of the main locations included in Upavan’s sightseeing menu. Remember to visit this historic and marvelous architecture on your upcoming Wayanad Kalpetta trip.

Getting there :

The Glass temple Koottamundu is on the hill side of Vellarimala
20 km from Kalpetta

http://www.wayanad.ind.in/tourist_attractions_in_wayanad/glass_temple_wayanad/glass_temple_photos/glass_temple_1.jpg

http://www.wayanad.ind.in/tourist_attractions_in_wayanad/glass_temple_wayanad/glass_temple_photos/glass_temple_2.jpg

Ive been 2 dis temple years back when i was a kid. It's a superb temple. U'll b astonished by many optical : phenomenons there which seemingly defy the laws of reflection and refraction......:):):cool::cool

navjot

July 12th, 2011, 05:19 PM

Paithalmala

http://img220.imageshack.us/img220/4108/360716190757a06c0eecz.jpg (http://img220.imageshack.us/i/360716190757a06c0eecz.jpg/)
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http://img694.imageshack.us/img694/5480/360797999049c9937843z.jpg (http://img694.imageshack.us/i/360797999049c9937843z.jpg/)
http://img89.imageshack.us/img89/6421/3607980312df10700c08z.jpg (http://img89.imageshack.us/i/3607980312df10700c08z.jpg/)
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http://img849.imageshack.us/img849/2690/3607984212498c3806f0z.jpg (http://img849.imageshack.us/i/3607984212498c3806f0z.jpg/)

Source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/39308976@N08/

Paithalmala is a hill lying in Kannur district of Kerala.t is located about 65 kms north-east of Kannur (Canannore) city and 35 kms east of Thaliparamba. North of Paithalmala is the Kudaku forest. These huge mountains lay spread over 500 acres of land. This is a dense forest area. One can go by bus upto Pottanplavu. From there jeep can be driven for six kms. After that, 2 km walk by foot.The peak offers a spectacular view of the surrounding mountains beneath it. It is also a haven for a wide variety of rare flora and fauna. Paithalmala is an ideal spot for adventure tourism as well. There are not many such fascinating hill stations in the region. It is believed that the name 'Paithal' (meaning an infant) has connection with the 'Paithalkon' dynasty of Malabar. There are many seasonal waterfalls in the forests nearby. At the hill top there is an abandoned fort and view from here is breathtaking.

Location map:

http://paithalmala.org/images/location_map_med.jpg

navjot

July 16th, 2011, 02:29 PM

Spread across the beauty of Periyar Tiger Reserve, Gavi is a quiet, beautiful and pristine forest haven. It is at the eastern extreme of the Pathanamthitta District at 3400 ft above MSL. These evergreen forests are abundant with magnificent Wildlife including the tiger, elephants, leopards, bears, Indian gaur, sambar, barking & Mouse deers, lion tailed macaque, other varieties of monkeys, Nilgiri Marten and a lot more.

For the nature explorers Gavi offers the complete acquaintance with the flora around including Nageia Wallichinia (Podocarpus Wallichinia), a highly endemic species of the Gymnosperm family seen only around Gavi in the whole Western Ghats !

If you are a birder, the forests around Gavi are home to over 320 species of birds –the great Indian hornbills, sunbirds, woodpeckers, kingfishers and myriads of mynas, dongos, cuckoos and bulbuls-truly any birder’s dream!

Getting There

Gavi is 28 kms south west of Vandiperiyar, a town in N.H 220 the highway connecting Kollam and Madurai, which itself is 14 kms from Kumily,near Thekkady. Let the rough journey to Gavi may better be made on a sturdy vehicle like jeep which are available on hire either from Vandiperiyar or from Kumily. Entry passes must be obtained from the Forest Check Post enroute at Vallakkadavu. Advance booking with the Kerala Forest Development Corporation Ltd. is highly appreciable wherein such formalities will be taken care of by the Company itself.

Regular buses are available to Vandiperiyar from Kochi & Thiruvananthapuram . A small bus rattles even up to Gavi from Vandiperiyar.

Gavi Lake

http://lh5.ggpht.com/-4RXxFHmtsDg/S9ZiTCrGfgI/AAAAAAAAaFg/46uuJPm6_24/s800/DSC_4491.JPG

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Cardamom plantations

http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Gj9DNg7e714/S9ZjCGuhuDI/AAAAAAAAaGo/Hm_BZNLmHGs/s800/DSC_4547.JPG

http://lh6.ggpht.com/-RDG1y12xGrg/S9ZjP33chkI/AAAAAAAAaHE/hPsNWdgMp1A/s800/DSC_4576.JPG

Elephants

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Pics: Hariharan , Picasa

abhilashtvpm

August 12th, 2011, 08:59 AM

http://img190.imageshack.us/img190/2839/64511734.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/190/64511734.jpg/)
http://img217.imageshack.us/img217/391/fileqy.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/217/fileqy.jpg/)

Ravi Pillai's article in Mathrubhumi on various possibilities of Tourism in Kerala.

sakrishna

August 30th, 2011, 07:30 PM

Pic (c) g sivaprasad@flickr
http://item.slide.com/r/1/00e9/i/teZsZOtU6D-ya4CeQYMd1wVmIWedTxi8/

v-8ras

September 3rd, 2011, 09:05 AM

Kottayathinte swantham kadal. Vembanattu Kadal

3-VnRXZd7mU:)

navjot

September 3rd, 2011, 07:00 PM

Tranquil and picturesque backwaters of Alappuzha in Kerala, which has emerged among the top Indian spots on the world tourism map, has received a boost with the Centre approving the first phase of the Rs 400-crore master plan for development of the area.

The works to be taken up in the Rs 50-crore first phase of the project would include creation of a backwater circuit for which the Tourism Ministry had given its nod, the Kerala Tourism Minister, Mr A.P. Anil Kumar, said.

As part of this, a string of houseboat terminals, resting points, night halt centres and curio and souvenir shops would be built along the panoramic banks of the backwaters.

The first phase will be launched very soon with the circuit linking more places and creating more routes for houseboats,” a Kerala Tourism release quoting Mr Kumar said today.

Shopping centres, handicraft stalls, restaurants and live performances of traditional art forms will give a real feeling of Kerala culture and cuisine to the visitors at these places, Mr Kumar said.

The plan had also taken into account the security aspect of the backwater cruise as building safe night halts for houseboats carrying tourists was a major component.

The new facilities would be developed on a public-private partnership mode. The State would lay the infrastructure for the purpose while the private players would create and run the shops and other ventures to woo the visitors.

Besides tour operators and hoteliers, many others in 58 village civic units and three towns would benefit from the balanced development of tourist spots from Aroor near Kochi to Kayamkulam near Kollam.

The master plan also suggested South and North Vembanad Lake and certain areas alongside the river Pampa as new routes.

Bottlenecks posed by some bridges at places such as Kidangara, Vattakayal and Pulinkunnu that obstruct free movement of boats would be solved.

There would be provisions for waste management with focus on eco-friendly tourism. The Government would also consider proposals of allowing luxury houseboats and floating restaurants if the private companies come up with proposals.

The Union Tourism Ministry, which has identified potential areas for tourism development, would extend financial support for the scheme.

Business Line (http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/industry-and-economy/government-and-policy/article2420766.ece)

navjot

September 25th, 2011, 06:29 AM

The District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC) intends to develop Wagamon as an adventure zone by promoting 20 sporting events identified as suitable for the area.

The DTPC had 45 hectares of land at Wagamon. The detailed project would be submitted to the government in a month, Tourism Department Deputy Director Joykutty George told The Hindu here.

Wagamon had grown as the third major tourism destination in the State after Munnar and Thekkady. Its grasslands were ideal for paragliding events. The DTPC would put in place the required infrastructure without affecting the environment, he said.

Lesser-know spots near Wagamon would also be developed. But unbridled tourism would not be allowed as it may harm the rich bio-diversity of the region, Mr. George said.

The DTPC's one-day tour of Wagamon had received good response. A one-day sight seeing programme, combining Munnar and Painavu, would start next month.

There are two sight-seeing tours which start from Munnar now. One takes the visitors to Devikulam, Gap Road, Rajakkad and Kallimaly; and another takes tourists to Eravikulam and Marayur. Sight-seeing programmes were being operated only to certain destinations. Poor road condition and lack of basic facilities had been hampering tour operations, sources said.

bijuarr

September 27th, 2011, 11:13 AM

karunakaranashok

September 27th, 2011, 06:07 PM

Latest international tourist statistics published by Government of Kerala - http://www.keralatourism.org/destination-wise-foreign-2010.pdf.

Kochi city ranks 1st followed by Kovalam, Fort Kochi, Trivandrum....

This report presumably is based on the data collected from Hotels . Most of the visitors to Kochi area will stay in the city as there are not enough hotels in Fort Kochi . Similarly most of the foreigners will be staying in Kovalam which has an abundant supply of Hotel rooms .That does not mean that they dont visit trivandrum city.There is not much meaning in splitting Kochi/Fort Kochi and TRivandrum/ Kovalam .

Viveks

September 28th, 2011, 02:12 PM

This report presumably is based on the data collected from Hotels . Most of the visitors to Kochi area will stay in the city as there are not enough hotels in Fort Kochi . Similarly most of the foreigners will be staying in Kovalam which has an abundant supply of Hotel rooms .That does not mean that they dont visit trivandrum city.There is not much meaning in splitting Kochi/Fort Kochi and TRivandrum/ Kovalam .

And the fourth place is not Trivandrum City... Its Varkala. Trivandrum City ranks 5th. I wonder how the foreign tourists travel from Kovalam to Varkala by avoiding Trivandrum city as these two international beach destinations located at two extremes. :nuts: Oh... Chilapol avar bypas-l koodi pokumaayirikkum... :bash:

Aslesh

September 28th, 2011, 02:34 PM

Oh... Chilapol avar bypas-l koodi pokumaayirikkum... :bash:

Yes. Not every tourist who comes to see Kovalam and/or Varkala visits or stays in Trivandrum city. Bypass undallo. Rand sthalath ishtam pole hotelsum resortsum und. Airportil ninn nere pokam. ;)

bijuarr

September 28th, 2011, 02:55 PM

Yes. Not every tourist who comes to see Kovalam and/or Varkala visits or stays in Trivandrum city. Bypass undallo. Rand sthalath ishtam pole hotelsum resortsum und. Airportil ninn nere pokam. ;)

See Maradu visitors number - 37881...May be due to Le Meridian.. Allathe verenth kunthama avideyullathe for tourists??:)

sudheeshnairs

September 28th, 2011, 03:42 PM

And the fourth place is not Trivandrum City... Its Varkala. Trivandrum City ranks 5th. I wonder how the foreign tourists travel from Kovalam to Varkala by avoiding Trivandrum city as these two international beach destinations located at two extremes. :nuts: Oh... Chilapol avar bypas-l koodi pokumaayirikkum... :bash:

Vivek, there is no point in even ‘deciphering in these lines’. I would say the issue is in viewing the things. And don’t humiliate the city by separating it from its internationally famed beach. Kovalam is also in Trivandrum city.

It’s very much clear that its only based on the location of hotels/resorts. Leela is the premier hotel in Trivandrum. What should the tourists do by taking a room in the statue/palayam area? Witness the ever recurring dharnas and processions to Secretariat?

My colleague here in Bangalore is coming for a 6 days trip to Trivandrum, want to see the city, veli, varkala, padmanabhaswamy temple, ponmudi and of course Kovalam. I have made his bookings at a Kovalam hotel, does it mean that he is not a tourist in ‘Trivandrum city’?

Oh... Chilapol avar bypas-l koodi pokumaayirikkum... :bash:

Bypass entha Ugandayilano, athum citikkullil alle?

Viveks

September 29th, 2011, 06:40 AM

Vivek, there is no point in even ‘deciphering in these lines’. I would say the issue is in viewing the things. And don’t humiliate the city by separating it from its internationally famed beach. Kovalam is also in Trivandrum city.

It’s very much clear that its only based on the location of hotels/resorts. Leela is the premier hotel in Trivandrum. What should the tourists do by taking a room in the statue/palayam area? Witness the ever recurring dharnas and processions to Secretariat?

My colleague here in Bangalore is coming for a 6 days trip to Trivandrum, want to see the city, veli, varkala, padmanabhaswamy temple, ponmudi and of course Kovalam. I have made his bookings at a Kovalam hotel, does it mean that he is not a tourist in ‘Trivandrum city’?

Bypass entha Ugandayilano, athum citikkullil alle?

Right... They should've mention it as downtown or CBD rather than City... :ohno:

dinakar

September 29th, 2011, 06:47 AM

Latest international tourist statistics published by Government of Kerala - http://www.keralatourism.org/destination-wise-foreign-2010.pdf.

hooo...Malabar region, infact from Trissur city (which is not even in the list) upto bekal there is no comparison to kochi or kovalam...

No 33 in the list iringal

33. Iringal Total - 8753

is this the iringal craft village near kappad..if so thats wonderfull nos it has attracted in its first year of opening.... really good.:cheers:

robin_a_p

September 30th, 2011, 09:38 AM

Yes. Not every tourist who comes to see Kovalam and/or Varkala visits or stays in Trivandrum city. Bypass undallo. Rand sthalath ishtam pole hotelsum resortsum und. Airportil ninn nere pokam. ;)

Kovalam is very much with in Trivandrum city limits ...

Aslesh

September 30th, 2011, 10:55 AM

RKPV

September 30th, 2011, 12:14 PM

See Maradu visitors number - 37881...May be due to Le Meridian.. Allathe verenth kunthama avideyullathe for tourists??:)

kunthamalla... Kumbalangee.... :) - Avide aduthalle?

And is there any good hotels in Iringal-Vatakara ? Iringal have better figure than Wayanad or Kozhikode City.

Aslesh

September 30th, 2011, 12:32 PM

It is not just hotel statistics. In that case Muzhappilangad shows more domestic visitors than Varkala. There are no hotels or resorts in Muzhappilangad. Is it a sample survey? Somebody should try RTI to get more details.

sanjupalayat

October 11th, 2011, 11:32 PM

Kadavu Resort Kozhikode.

r16PbMdLdSY

sanjupalayat

October 11th, 2011, 11:36 PM

Thira/Theyyam Festival, Kozhikode.

nBMODKFwvR4

Sali_varakkal

November 3rd, 2011, 02:14 PM

Kannur Angadi and Beach Shots were pleasant. hope this was not shared.
CC owner of the video

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_bMBDV_CAO4&feature=related

sudheeshnairs

November 5th, 2011, 06:49 AM

^^ Ennod paranjitt karyamilla. I think the tourism department did the right thing by showing Kovalam separately. It will be useful for those who are interested to know visitor statistics in various destinations. They don't understand city sentiments in SSC right? Similarly Fort Kochi and Kochi City are given separately. Aren't they belonging to same corporation?

Aslesh, there is one catch in this. Yes, it is always good to know the visitors to Kovalam. But Kovalam in itself spans a big area, starting from the Hotels in the north to the sprawling island resorts in south.

As I said earlier, Leela is the premier business hotel. When I was in TVM, we were booking all our business visitors in Leela. Same is the case with the companies of Technopark. Those hotels are easy accessible from Airport, Technopark rather than from a hotel in CBD. Even domestic tourists whose main destination would stay in a beach hotel and then visit Padmanabhaswamy temple, museum, Veli, shankumukhom etc. The friend whom I mentioned in the last post was in TVM for 5 days for his vacation, at Neelakanta hotel facing the beach in Kovalam. Will explain his feed back later in detail.

Perhaps the point would be not to have a classification as ‘Thiruvananthapuram’, it should be ‘CBD’ or ‘downtown’ etc.

regiwilson

November 6th, 2011, 04:50 PM

See Maradu visitors number - 37881...May be due to Le Meridian.. Allathe verenth kunthama avideyullathe for tourists??:)

Kundannoor Jn.Lol

sofiajennie07

November 11th, 2011, 05:55 AM

One can connect with nature, atmosphere and peaceful by visiting these place. These destinations have been full of greenery, lush forest and adventure sites. On tour to the destination one can enjoy adventures sites.

rockystone

December 1st, 2011, 10:21 AM

Top 10 activities in Kerala, India’s deep south

http://www.bbc.com/travel/feature/20111122-top-10-activities-in-kerala-indias-deep-south

Kerala has been a favourite haunt of travellers for nearly 600 years; exhilarating, enchanting and enthralling with its top-notch beauty and culture. Here are our favourite 10 activities that get under the skin of this incredible state.
Related article: Mini guide to Kerala, India

Cruise the backwaters

No trip to Kerala is complete without a languid boat ride on its idyllic backwaters. Lined by emerald coconut plantations and interspersed with turquoise lakes, these placid lagoons are the perfect place to shake off pent-up urban stress. For an extra-special experience, spend the night on board a houseboat, and witness a dreamy sunrise break over the serene bayous at dawn. Houseboats can be chartered through the District Tourism Promotion Councils in Kollam or Alleppey, or a multitude of private operators.

Live it up in Munnar

Green is the colour that swathes the lush mountain slopes of Munnar, Kerala’s answer to the fabled hill stations of north India. The crisp air and clement weather in this scenic hill town are perfectly engineered to give you the most restful experience possible. Order a steaming cup of tea from a nearby plantation to go with the breathtaking views.

Photograph Kochi’s fishing nets

Top among Kerala’s iconic photo opportunities are the cantilevered Chinese fishing nets – dating back to the 1400s – that line the harbour at Kochi. Crafted out of teakwood beams and resembling giant alien arachnids poised to sting, they form unreal silhouettes against the seascape and provide some dramatic camera fodder, especially at dusk.

Get beached in Varkala

You will wish you were an Alex Garland character the moment you set foot in picturesque Varkala. Perched on a precipitous cliff and overlooking the sapphire waters of the Arabian Sea, this beachy paradise boasts some dazzling and pristine sands to relax on.

Embrace Ayurveda

Centuries of Indian therapeutic wisdom and practices, perfected to soothe the body, mind and soul, can now be accessed at the many ayurvedic spas across the state. Feel your senses come alive with an invigorating panchakarma session, or pamper those knotty sinews with a revitalising aromatherapy or herbal massage. Try the Kannur Ayurvedic Centre, a small, government-certified, family-run clinic in Kalpetta.

Watch a Kathakali show

If you thought Kabuki was spectacular, think again. Kathakali, Kerala’s very own classical dance tradition dating back to the 17th Century, is a highly-celebrated performance art known for its colourful make-up, elaborate costumes and graceful movements, not to mention the trance-inducing music that accompanies each spirited performance. If you are inspired to give it a go, head to the Margi Kathakali School for courses in kathakali and kootiattam (traditional Sanskrit drama) for beginner and advanced students.

Know your spices

You will find a huge range of spices in this state, such as pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, mace, fennel, turmeric, cumin, coriander, aniseed, tamarind, allspice, saffron, poppy and mustard. Ambush your senses at the spice markets of Mattancherry in Kochi, and pack an extra bag for the inevitable shopping.

Meet Periyar’s tigers

Some 50 of India’s fabled Royal Bengal tigers can still be found in the virgin forests of the Periyar Tiger Reserve in inland Kerala. Keeping them company are elephants, leopards, Indian bison and myriad species of snakes, deer and monkeys. Head out for a wild day with the beasts.

Learn your Kalarippayat moves

The basics of this acrobatic and flamboyant 12th-century martial art are based on the science of attacking pressure points in the human body, Kalarippayat is known to be the fount of other revered martial arts such as kung fu and karate. If you want to see real professionals have a go at it, it is best to travel out to Ens Kalari, a renowned Kalarippayat learning centre eight kilometres southeast of Ernakulam.

Get a taste for Malabar

Fiery pothu (beef), fluffy appams (rice hoppers), aviyal (vegetables in aromatic coconut gravy), fish molee (spicy yellow curry) and payasam (semolina in caramelised milk) -- these are just a few of the delectable dishes that emerge from Kerala’s kitchens day after day. Pair a platter with a glass of the locally-tapped and deliciously refreshing toddy (coconut palm wine). Try Suprabhatham in Kovalam or Sreepadman in Varkala for cheap and truly authentic Keralan fare.

sajith

January 31st, 2012, 06:02 AM

Mumbai: Buoyed by an over 11 per cent increase in foreign tourist arrivals in 2011, which was a bad year for the global tourism industry given the bleak economic environment, Kerala is on a marketing blitz to attract more travellers from the Middle East and Down Under.

"We plan to spend over Rs 10 crore on mass media campaigns and road shows alone in the Middle East and Australia this year," Kerala Tourism Director Rani George told PTI in Thiruvananthapuram recently.

This is significant, considering that the entire marketing budget for the Tourism Department of 'God's Own Country', which is how Kerala is known in global tourism circles, is only Rs 35 crore for the year.

The marketing blitz in the Middle East involves road shows and mass media campaigns involving television and the print media. The first leg of the campaign has already been kicked off in Saudi Arabia, with its three main cities of Riyadh, Jeddah and Dhamam as the focal points of the road shows, George said.

In Australia, too, the department will be using the mass media and road show models to lure Australians to the country, she said, adding that the campaign will kick off in early February.

The other focal markets for 2012 will be Russia and China, she added.

George further said the department has empanelled creative agency Stark to come out with a tourism awareness film that will help locals respect foreigners visiting the state. The ad film will be ready in the next six months and will be aired in the main markets of Europe and Britain, she added.

"Foreign tourist arrivals rose 11.18 per cent in 2011 to 7.32 lakh, while domestic arrivals touched 93.8 lakh during the year, which is an increase of 9.15 per cent," George said.

In revenue terms, those from foreign tourists rose 11.2 per cent to Rs 4,221 crore, George said adding, "the overall revenue from tourism touched Rs 19,037 crore, which is an increase of 9.74 per cent in 2011 over 2010."

This makes the contribution of tourism to the state GDP nearly 10 per cent, she added.

Last year, the revenue from tourism had crossed Rs 17,000 crore, constituting 9 per cent of the state GDP.

On the prospects for this year, George said, she is targeting an 8-10 per cent spike in overall arrivals.

When asked whether the department is looking at new tourism circuits in the state, she said, the state is already working a Northern Circuit, which will be completed in FY13.

"For the central part, we are developing a heritage project in Kodungaloor in Thrissur district. Called the Muziris Heritage Project, this involves Rs 200 crore investment," the tourism director said.

URL-http://zeenews.india.com/news/kerala/kerala-tourism-on-marketing-blitz-in-australia-me_755639.html

bijuarr

February 6th, 2012, 02:12 PM

AZHIKODE MUNAKKAL BEACH-KODUNGALLUR, THRISSUR (One of the largest beaches in Kerala)

27 km from Kochi and 46km from Thrissur

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OPEN STAGE

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PARKING AREA

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MUNAMBAM BEACH, KOCHI

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AZHIKODE / MUNAMBAM PORT OFFICE

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sanjupalayat

February 14th, 2012, 04:52 PM

Kadalundi bird sanctuary, Kozhikode.

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vjfile

February 14th, 2012, 06:59 PM

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Shot with Sony DSC HX9V

nikhilkk

February 17th, 2012, 06:16 PM

KANNUR: The remarkable growth in number of foreign tourists visiting the state seems to be skewed in favour of south and central Kerala.

Malabar region portrays a dismal picture despite having some of the best tourist destinations, according to figures of department of tourism.

Though the rate of foreign tourists visiting the state witnessed a 11.18% growth from 6,59,265 in 2010 to 7,32,985 in 2011, the contribution of north Kerala districts to this figure is abysmal (6.18%).

In 2010, only 6.27% of the total foreign tourists who visited the state came to Malabar. The same for central Kerala is 55.94% and for south Kerala it is 38.69%.

The tourism department is yet to finalize a district-wise chart of the foreign and domestic tourist arrival for 2011. But officials say that a huge variation in the share from the Malabar region compared to the previous years is unlikely.

Domestic tourist arrival to Kerala during the year 2011 is 93,81,455. It showed an increase of 9.15% over the previous year's figure of 85,95,075. In 2010, the contribution of Malabar was around 27.27% and this year too the trend is the same, say the officials.

According to K Bhaskaran, deputy director, department of tourism, Kannur, Malabar lacks in all aspects of tourism from hygiene to hospitality.

"Malabar region has great destinations, but these places are not marketed properly. We have a notion that constructing huge buildings and resorts would boost tourism, which is not true. We have to develop destinations and the infrastructure and connectivity, where Malabar has failed miserably," he says.

Officials say for a tourist travelling from Kozhikode to Kannur, there is not even a single hotel that caters to the tastes of the foreign tourist. "The tourism in Malabar will not improve without the change in the attitude of the people, whereas in the central and south Kerala the attitude is much better," says Bhaskaran.

The slack in ensuring cleanliness is also a major impediment. "But the Kannur municipality says that it is not their job to keep tourist spots spic and span. The DTPC spends nearly Rs 1.5 lakh a month to clean the beaches and remove the wastes, though it is not the responsibility of the department," says Bhaskaran.

Meanwhile the DTPC has given a proposal to develop Kanjirakolly, a small tourists place in Kannur, as a trekking and adventure tourism destination. The Paithalmala eco-tourism project (PEP), which was inaugurated last year, will also be handed over to the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC), which would run the project.

sajith

April 30th, 2012, 07:43 PM

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala Tourism won a rare honour at the prestigious Prague International Advertising Festival (PIAF) 2012 for its print campaign, ‘Your Moment is Waiting’.
Kerala Tourism won the bronze in the category of the state as an advertiser. In other categories, the awards were bagged by world’s leading companies such as German car manufacturer Volkswagen, consumer goods giant Unilever and American confectionary conglomerate Kraft Foods.
Kerala Tourism’s recognition in Prague comes close on the heels of a dozen awards, including three gold medals at the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) international awards, won by the ‘Your Moment is Waiting’ film campaign.
“This is an unprecedented honour. It is a recognition of the hard work put in by Kerala Tourism in managing the brand Kerala and devising timely marketing strategies,” said Kerala Tourism Minister A P Anil Kumar.
PIAF is an exclusive event in the global advertising calendar. The winners were chosen by a jury of experienced advertising professionals, representatives of advertisers, marketing specialists and young creative professionals.
The other big names, which shared the podium with Kerala Tourism were McDonalds Germany, Sony Pictures, Heineken, and Lego.
The print ad campaign had already won two regional awards at the Cochin Advertising Club Pepper Awards 2012 for photography and art direction.
“The award at Prague is another big endorsement, at the global level, for our efforts to further promote brand Kerala in the world tourism circuit. This recognition reiterates that our efforts are on the right track,” said Kerala Tourism director Rani George.
The ‘Your Moment is Waiting’ ad campaign, both in the film and the print media, features glimpses of such moments of realisation felt by the tourists.
http://expressbuzz.com/cities/thiruvananthapuram/Honour-for-Kerala-Tourism-at-PIAF-2012/387181.html

ajithv

June 23rd, 2012, 06:41 AM

Narain Karthikeyan may endorse Kerala tourism (http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/thiruvananthapuram/Narain-Karthikeyan-may-endorse-Kerala-tourism/articleshow/14350589.cms)

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Formula 1 has one of the largest global TV viewership in the world estimated to be around 500 million in almost every country, imagine then a race car speeding around the track with God's Own Country plastered on its rear and front wing. That's the irresistible branding offer being made by HRT's Formula 1 driver Narain Karthikeyan, who has expressed willingness to endorse Kerala tourism.

Karthikeyan had a closed door meeting with the Kerala Tourism minister and expressed his willingness to be part of Kerala tourism's branding activities in India and abroad. Jose Pottakulam, team principal of M&N racing and friend of Karthikeyan is said to have handed a project report listing out the venues where the Formula 1 driver could make an appearance and demo drives that could be performed as part of the deal.

The project report currently being perused by the Tourism Department mentions that Karthikeyan would be part of the inaugural programme of the Kerala Travel Mart, World Travel Mart (London), International French Travel Market Top Resa, SATTE, TTF (Mumbai), IITM (New Delhi and Mumbai). During the Indian Grand Prix, two race cars, Karthikeyan's car and his team mate Pedro de la Rosa's car would be splashed with 'side branding' which is the most visible part of the car.

"The tourism department had discussed the proposal and suggested releasing funds allocated for the development of 'innovative tourism product'. However, a section of people was against utilizing all of it, Rs 2 crore, on one product, and are actively considering other means of funding. As the product is one of a kind in India and will catapult brand Kerala to a niche audience, funds can be sourced from various accounts such as marketing and branding. The Onam committee met once and are likely to discuss the matter in their next meeting which will be held in the first week of July as Karthikeyan is very likely to perform a demo drive in Thiruvananthapuram," said a source from the tourism department's marketing section.

chekuthan

July 17th, 2012, 09:02 AM

Kerala to have environment friendly tourism policy: Oommen Chandy
Kozhikode: The tourism policy of the UDF government would be environmentally friendly, Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy said in Kozhikode today.

He was speaking after inaugurating work on the Kakkayam-Peruvannamuzhi tourism project at nearby Kakkayam.

Mr Chandy said environmental concerns would not be ignored and that environment protection was meant for the future.

On representation from students for protecting wild animals in forest areas, he said he would ascertain from the District Collector K V Mohankumar, steps that could be taken in this regard.

Kerala tourism minister, A P Anil Kumar, presided.

Mr Mohankumar said the Centre has accorded Rs. 5 crore for tourism development at Peruvannamuzhy-Kakkayama dam site. Under the project, Rs. 2.19 crore had been earmarked for Kakkayam dam site alone for construction of four boat jetties, a cafeteria, a pavilion, toilet block and view towers, he said.

The project envisages establishment of a spice garden, amphitheatre and a children's area with an eye on attracting foreign tourists. Development of these tourism destinations is expected to augment the tourism profile of the district and the project would be implemented within 30 months.

An amount of Rs. 2.66 crore has been earmarked for setting up four boat jetties, pavilions, toilet block, watch towers, cafeteria and development of islands at Peruvannamuzhi.

passionfruit12

July 20th, 2012, 07:53 AM

The Kerala Tourism Board is all set to host an international cycling competition from November 2 to 4 at Thenmala and Kovalam.

“This is the first-of-its-kind adventure tourism venture in the country. The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), the Swiss-based organisation, which oversees international cycling competition, has given in principle approval for the project,” said T P Narayanankutty, Director, Eco-Tourism.

India hopes to rope in international cyclists for the events by enlisting the event on the UCI calendar. “Just before the competition in Kerala, there is a similar international event in Australia. Since most of the participants for these events are Europeans, we hope to get them to the competition here on their way back home after the event in Australia,” said a senior Tourism Board official.

The Tourism Board has released about Rs1 crore for the event. An additional 1 crore will have to be pooled in through sponsorships for the event. The tracks are already ready and have been approved by the Cycling Federation of India officials.

from newindianexpress: http://newindianexpress.com/cities/kochi/article570145.ece

bijuarr

July 20th, 2012, 03:10 PM

CHERAI BEACH

Lake near Beach

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On the way to Munambam Beach

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MUNAMBAM BEACH

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AZHIKODE BEACH

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ajithv

August 1st, 2012, 11:06 AM

U1eKLkGvXnE

ceeznic pirate

August 11th, 2012, 07:32 PM

Thekkady

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Thekkady (http://www.flickr.com/photos/bonevlion/7759951770/) by Bonevlion (http://www.flickr.com/people/bonevlion/), on Flickr

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Thekkady (http://www.flickr.com/photos/bonevlion/7759944728/) by Bonevlion (http://www.flickr.com/people/bonevlion/), on Flickr

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Thekkady (http://www.flickr.com/photos/bonevlion/7759926398/) by Bonevlion (http://www.flickr.com/people/bonevlion/), on Flickr

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8446/7759920194_3091558411_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/bonevlion/7759920194/)
Thekkady (http://www.flickr.com/photos/bonevlion/7759920194/) by Bonevlion (http://www.flickr.com/people/bonevlion/), on Flickr

cc:me

ceeznic pirate

August 11th, 2012, 07:34 PM

Ramakkalmedu

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Ramakkalmedu (http://www.flickr.com/photos/bonevlion/7759911690/) by Bonevlion (http://www.flickr.com/people/bonevlion/), on Flickr

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Ramakkalmedu (http://www.flickr.com/photos/bonevlion/7759910984/) by Bonevlion (http://www.flickr.com/people/bonevlion/), on Flickr

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Ramakkalmedu (http://www.flickr.com/photos/bonevlion/7759910096/) by Bonevlion (http://www.flickr.com/people/bonevlion/), on Flickr

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cc:me

ceeznic pirate

August 11th, 2012, 07:39 PM

Gavi

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By ceeznic2 (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/ceeznic2)

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By ceeznic2 (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/ceeznic2)

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By ceeznic2 (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/ceeznic2)

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By ceeznic2 (http://profile.imageshack.us/user/ceeznic2)

sajith

September 21st, 2012, 06:17 PM

Thiruvananthapuram: Wayanad tourism will have a major facelift with the State Government preparing a master plan which will be submitted to the Union Government. Kerala has already declared the master plan as the mega project of tourism in the next year. This will be submitted to the Union Tourism Ministry for financial assistance. Tourism Minister A P Anil Kumar said that as the Wayanad master plan is considered as a mega project, the Union Government would sanction Rs 50 crore for tourism development purposes. The project is almost complete and it is in the final stages.
Last year, the development of Alappuzha was given focus and a project submitted to the Union Ministry. After considering the proposal, the government sanctioned the financial assistance and the first instalment is expected by next month, the minister said. G Shankar, architect, who is preparing the master plan for tourism in Wayanad, said that a draft plan has been submitted to the government. The final report will be completed soon. He said that the entire stretch of Wayanad will be covered in the master plan.
It is estimated that around Rs 1,500 crore worth of projects will come up at the tourism sector. Responsible Tourism will also be implemented in some areas where the tribals will also be linked. The tribals too will benefit with the development of tourism. “The plan is to give the tourists the natural real beauty of Wayanad. The projects are prepared without disturbing the ecological balance and not even one tree will be cut down for tourism development”, Shankar said.

The Karappuzha area will be the hub of the tourists arrivals, as it is most accessible point from Mysore, Madurai, Kozhikode and Kannur. From this hub, the tourists will be allowed to move to various places in a restricted manner. There cannot be unrestricted large tourist flow at one given time to some of the tourist spots like Pookodu lake and Edakkal caves.
He pointed out that recently, the number of people who visited Pookodu lake in a day was 2,000 which can lead to many accidents and so the number yshould be restricted. The Alappuzha master plan focuses on upgrading the facilities at the existing tourism spots. The spots which are unexploited are identified and it will be developed. Restaurants, recreation zones, construction of walkways and boating facilities will be given focus. Karumadi, Kuthiravattam Chira, Pallana and Vayyamkara Chira will be developed with more facilities. A DTPC Water Sports Complex at Kayamkulam, with galleries are planned where Kayamkulam boat race is held.
http://ibnlive.in.com/news/kerala-wayanad-tourism-to-get-a-major-boost/293797-62-126.html

gracebland

October 4th, 2012, 09:15 AM

The greenest landscape, wide beaches, thick forest with rarely seen wild life species, many water bodies are the factors effecting the natural beauty of Kerala. Also the predominant Ayurvedic treatment, customs and festivals in Kerala attracts tourists.

Sali_varakkal

February 19th, 2013, 04:28 PM

Asianet News Video on trekking to Ranipuram, with a brief dialogue on history Speech in Malayalam, without subtitles.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nMi9IlDRi0U.

CC Asianet news Youtube

So I start the thread from Kasargod itself.

Rannipuram, in Kasargod is an unexplored hill station located between Kerala-Karnataka border

Rannipuram is often dubbed as Poor Man's Ooty or Ooty of Kasargod, is a beautiful solitude place famous for its trekking and adventure trails. Part of Shola forest ranges, the place is famous its elephant herds and deers....

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The hill ranges has small peaks, grasslands, evergreen tropical forests which merges with Thalakavery Wildlife sanctuary of Karnataka

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The star attraction is the Mannikallu, is strong rock formation on top of a peak, which is any trekker's best thrills.....

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:banana::banana::banana:

saysenthil

March 22nd, 2013, 01:52 PM

Kerala launches fresh initiatives to attract tourists (http://hillpost.in/2013/03/22/kerala-launches-fresh-initiatives-to-attract-tourists/62650/business/tourism/hp_bureau)

Kerala Tourism Friday launched two fresh initiatives to attract both foreign and domestic tourists to the state, an official said.

The ‘Seaplane Project’ and ‘Project Muziris’ were formally launched at Kerala Super Hits, an event organised by the Kerala tourism department here.

The Seaplane Project is aimed at improving air connectivity across the state, and will be implemented by Kerala Tourism Infrastructure Ltd. (KTIL), information officer Nand Kumar said.

“We have been trying to improve air connectivity in the state. Last year, we started a collaborative programme with Jet Airways but more needs to be done in this regard,” Nand Kumar added.

The project will be launched in the priority circuit at airports like Kochi, Calicut and Thiruvananthapuram, along with destinations like Astamudi, Punnamada, Kumarakom, Bolgatty and Bekal, he said.

The objective of Project Muziris is to create awareness about the cultural distinctiveness and diversity of the legendary port of Muziris, Nand Kumar said.

“The Muziris Heritage Site (MHS) stretches from north Paravur in Ernakulam district to Kodungalloor in Thrissur district,” he said, adding that “more than 25 museums will be opened to appreciate the Muziris heritage”.

On the recent cases of sexual assault on foreign nationals, Nand Kumar said: “We run awareness programmes to educate locals and those associated with the (tourism) industry. They recognise that such incidents can affect their livelihood. Also, the police provide security to the tourists.”

He added that Kerala witnessed about 250 percent growth in the arrival of foreign tourists and 100 percent increase in arrival of domestic tourists in the last decade.

The tourism department also intends to reinvigorate medical tourism by focusing on Ayurveda campaign, Nand Kumar said.

Aimed specifically at foreign tourists, the campaign will provide therapeutic and rejuvenation programmes, whereby their stay is expected to go up to 18 days per person from the present stay of 16.2 days.

Kerala Tourism’s revenue, both direct and indirect, touched Rs.21,125 crore in 2012 as compared to Rs.19,037 crore in 2011, according to an official statement of the agency.

The state witnessed 7.94 lakh foreign tourists’ arrival in 2012, as compared to 7.33 lakh in 2011, and in 2012 1.01 crore domestic tourists visited Kerala as against 93.88 lakh in 2011, it said.

Kerala Tourism also plans to conduct partnership meets in cities like Kolkata, Bangalore, Chennai, Mumbai, Delhi, Visakhapatnam, Lucknow, Bhopal, Surat, Nashik and Pune this year.