Uncategorized
Best of Kerala
Best of Kerala
Cochin / Munnar / Periyar / Kumarakom / Alleppey / Kovalam / Trivandrum
Day01- Kochi
Chines fishing nets. In the evening attend the traditional Kathakali Dance show.
The commercial capital of Kerala also famous for its Asia’s best preserved Synagogue, the Dutch Palace and the oldest European Church in India – the St. Francis Church where Vasco-De-Gama was originally buried. A leisurely walk through the Fort Cochin, find close looks
Day 02 - Munnar (145 KMS)
One of the most popular hill stations in India is situated at the confluence of the three mountain streams the main key attraction of this place is Lock Heart Gap a ideal place for adventure, Eco Point and Nyayamakad- is a land of breathtaking waterfalls. The water cascade down a hill from a height of about 1600 meters.
Day 03 - Munnar
Proceed to full day sightseeing, visit to Anayirankal- It's a lush green carpet of tea plants. A trip on the splendid reservoir is an unforgettable experience. The Anayirankal Dam is surrounded by the Tata Tea Plantation and evergreen forests. Pothamedu - offers an excellent view of the tea, coffee and cardamom plantations in Munnar.
Day 04 - Periyar (105 KMS)
Oneof the best game sanctuaries in India proceed to Periyar /Thekkady on arrival check in at the Hotel. After brief leisure go on a game viewing cruise on the Periyar Lake located inside the wildlife sanctuary. Here you will be able to see a large variety of wildlife, which includes wild elephants, monkeys, deer, wild boar and different species of birds, can also be spotted. Stay overnight at your hotel
Day 05 - Kumarakom (140 KMS)
Kumarakom, a cozy little island just 16 kilometer west of Kottayam in India’s favorite destination – Kerala, is renowned the world over for its exotic migratory birds, self sustaining eco-system and hospital on arrival check into the hotel after taking brief leisure visit Kumarakom bird sanctuary at evening see the breathtaking view of lake during the sunset leaves a spellbound.
Day 06 - Alleppey
This day disembark the Houseboat trip is the perfect way to experience the backwater lifestyle of Kerala. The day long journey in the beautiful backwaters of Kerala is the only way to explore what otherwise seems more like a poet’s version. The boat will reach in the area which is just breathtaking. It is far beyond imagination that how a whole life is running across both the corners of backwaters.
Day07 - Kovalam: (180Kms)
Morning after breakfast proceeds to reach Kovalam. On arrival check in your beach resort Island. Remaining day at you own discretion to explore and enjoy the beach. Over night stay at your beach resort.
Day 08: - Kovalam
Complete day at your own leisure or you have an option to take sightseeing tour of land's end of India, Kanyakumari where the Arabian Sea, the Indian Ocean and the Bay of Bengal converge with one of the most dramatic backdrops India has to offer on arrival move for a sight seeing tour of Kanyakumari including Vivekananda Rock and Kumari Amman Temple
Day 09 - Trivandrum
At appropriate time you will be transferred to Trivandrum airport or railway station for your onward journey back to your home destination.
The Tour ends.

Exotic Kerala
Exotic Kerala
Cochin / Munnar / Periyar/ Kumarakom / Alleppey / Thirunathapuram / Kovalam / Kanyakumari
Day 1
AM- Arrival at Cochin International Airport and transfer to your hotel.
PM- Fort cochin visit which includes Jewish Synagogue, Dutch Palace,St.Francis Church, Chinese Fishing nets & Fort cochin beach.
Over night stay at Cochin
Day-2
Breakfast at your hotel.
AM- After breakfast drive to Munnar(140 km). On arrival at Munnar transfer to your hotel.
PM-Rest of the day at leisure.
Over night stay at Munnar.
Day-3
Breakfast at your hotel.
AM- Proceed for a sightseeing tour of Munnar visiting Kundala Dam, Echo point, Mattu petty Dam and Iravikulam National park (boating facilities available here).
Over night stay at Munnar.
Day-4
Breakfast at your hotel.
AM-After breakfast drive to Thekkady (115 km). On arrival at Thekkady transfer to your hotel.
PM- Plantation tour, Tea Factory visit.
Over night stay at Thekkady.
Day-5
Breakfast at your hotel.
AM- Boating in to the Periyar wild life sanctuary.
PM- Elephant ride
Over night stay at Thekkady.
Day-6
Breakfast at your hotel.
AM-After breakfast, drive to Kumarakom (125 km) and on arrival, check in (12 noon) to your house boat followed with reception and welcome drink. Start your tour from Kumarakom. Gliding on the Vembanadu Lake, biggest fresh water lake in South India. Pass through R. Block Kayal, a place where spices and paddy are cultivated below sea- level.
Lunch break.
Continue the journey. Evening, arrival at Alleppy (city of house boats), visit Hindu Devi Temple- ‘Kidagamparmbu’. See the beautifully carved Temple tower. Carvings depict the story of great Indian Epics Mahabharata and Ramayana. See the trade activity at Mullackkal street-the down town of Alleppy city. Come back to the boat. Night halt at Alleppy.
Day-7
Breakfast at Your house boat
AM-After breakfast(9.30.am) drive to Kovalam(180 km), enroot visiting Sree Padmanabha Temple, Puthenmaliga, Sree Chitra Art Gallery and Napier museum at Trivandrum. On arrival at Kovalam Check in to your hotel.
Over night stay at Kovalam.
Day-8
Breakfast at your hotel
AM-After breakfast drive to Kanyakumari (100 km) enroot visiting, Padmanabhapuram palace, Suchindram Temple, Gandhi Museum, Vivekananda Rock and Kanyakumari Devi Temple.
Over night stay at Kanyakumari
Day-9
Breakfast at your hotel
AM.After Breakfast, transfer to theTrivandrum air port/Railway station for return journey.
Tour Ends

Spice tour of Kerala
Spice tour of Kerala
Cochin / Munnar / Periyar /
Kumarakom/ Cochin
Day-1
AM- Arrival at Cochin International Airport and transfer to your hotel.
PM- Fort cochin visit which includes Jewish Synagogue, Dutch Palace,St.Francis Church, Chinese Fishing nets & Fort cochin beach.
Over night stay at Cochin
Day-2
Breakfast at your hotel.
AM- After breakfast drive to Munnar (140 km). On arrival at Munnar transfer to your hotel.
PM-Rest of the day at leisure.
Over night stay at Munnar.
Day-3
Breakfast at your hotel.
AM- Proceed for a sightseeing tour of Munnar visiting Kundala Dam, Echo point, Mattu petty Dam and Iravikulam National park (boating facilities available here).
Over night stay at Munnar.
Day-4
Breakfast at your hotel.
AM-After breakfast drive to Thekkady (115 km). On arrival at Thekkady transfer to your hotel.
PM- Plantation tour, Tea Factory visit, Elephant ride and Boating in to the Wildlife Sanctuary.
Over night stay at Thekkady.
Day-5
Breakfast at your hotel.
AM-After breakfast, drive to Kumarakom (125 km), on arrivalcheck in (12 noon) to your house boat followed by reception and welcome drink. Start your tour from Kumarakom. Gliding on the Vembanadu Lake, biggest fresh water lake in South India. Pass through R. Block Kayal, a place where spices and paddy are cultivated below sea- level.
Lunch break.
Continue the journey. Evening, arrival at Alleppy (city of house boats), visit Hindu Devi Temple- ‘Kidagamparmbu’. See the beautifully carved Temple tower. Carvings depict the story of great Indian Epics Mahabharata and Ramayana. See the trade activity at Mullackkal street-the down town of Alleppy city. Come back to the boat. Night halt at Alleppy.
Day-6
Breakfast at Your house boat
AM-After breakfast(9.30.am) transfer to the Cochi Air port/Railway station for return journey.
Our services End here.

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Wayanad
Wayanad
Kuruva Dweep
Kuruva Island is situated on the tributaries of the river kabani and is a fabulous picnic spot. Its serene silence and wide expanse of the evergreen forest leaves you astonishing. This island is isolated but an array of uncommon species of birds, herbs and orchids are the monarchs of Kuruva Island. Kuruva Island is 17 kms to the east of Mananthavady.
Kuruva Island is a vast island of 950 acres abundantly rich with green forest. It is very far from the turbulence of city life making it an exotic place for visitors to relax and enjoy the beauty of the nature.
Boys Town
15 km north of Mananthavady):Herbal garden, nature care centre, sericulture unit, perma-culture centre etc., established by the Wayanad Social Service Society and Jean Park, (the Indo-Danish project for promoting herbal gardening), are situated here.
Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary
20 km east of Manathavady, 13 km from Thirunelly on the Kodagu Road. Open (0600 -0800 hrs 1500 – 1730 hrs) Tholpetty wildlife sanctuary is situated in Wayanad, in the lower hills of Nilgiris, 300 Kms north east of Cochin (six and half hour’s journey) and 100 kms south west of Mysore. Being part of the Niligri biosphere reserve of the Western Ghats, Tholpetty is one of the largest protected areas and best places to see Asian elephants and Indian bison. The sanctuary covers an area of 345Km.
Thirunelly Temple
(32 km northeast of Mananthavady): Surrounded by Kambamala, Karimala and Varadiga, the Thirunelly temple is a marvel of temple architecture. The shrine is shielded with 30 granite columns and the ground is paved with huge square pieces of granite. The crystal clear waters of the Papanasini River running downhill add to the enchantment of the place.
Pakshipathalam
(10 km from Thirunelly): This place can be accessed only by trekking. Rare species of birds can be sighted from the watch tower of this bird sanctuary.
Pazhassi Tomb
(32 km northeast of Kalpetta): The memorial of the 'Lion of Kerala’ - Veera Pazhassi Raja -, who organised the guerilla warfare against the British East India Company, is situated at Mananthavady. The pulpally cave is where Pazhassi took refuge until he was captured by the British.
Nagarhole Wildlife Sanctuary
(40 km from Mananthavady) This sanctuary in Karnataka state extends over an area of 643.39 sq km. The park houses diverse species of plant and animal life.
Visiting time: 0600 - 0800 hrs and 1500 -1730 hrs.
Chembra peak
(14 km west of Kalpetta): At 2100 m above mean sea level, Chembra is the highest peak in Wayanad and is an ideal area for trekking
Banasura Sagar Dam,
Considered to be the largest earth dam in India, as well as the second largest in Asia, this is a mini hydel project. A sprawling Sanctuary and peak with ever flowering trees are major tourist attractions. Boating facilities in the dam and trekking trails leading from here draw out door enthusiasts.
Meenmutty waterfall
(12 km east of Meppadi and 29 km from Kalpetta, on the Ooty main road). An interesting 2 km jungle trek will lead to the largest and most spectacular waterfall in Wayanad.A unique feature of Meenmutty is that the water drops from nearly 1000ft over three stages, presenting a triple –decker effect.
Sentinel Rock Waterfall
22 km south of Kalpetta near Chooralmala. Locally known as Soochippara and is a very popular leisure destination. This is a three step waterfall more than 200 mts in height. Framed by enchanting scenery. A must to see site! This region is ideal for rock climbing. Soochipara can be reached by a scenic 2 kms. Nature walk and deer and other wildlife can be seen near the waterfront.
Kanthanpara Waterfall
(22 km away from Kalpetta): Smaller than sentinel rock, Kanthanpara and its surroundings make for an ideal picnic spot.
Sulthan Bathery
Sulthan Bathery, earlier known as Ganapativatom, is a quaint town in the Wayanad district of Kerala. The place became known as Sulthan Bathery after Tipu Sulthan of Mysore invaded the region and used the Jain temple here as a battery. During Tipu Sulthan’s invasion in the 18th century an imposing fort was built here; unfortunately no remains of it stand today. This picturesque town is situated at an altitude of 1000 meters above MSL, flanked by majestic hills with patches of cliffs, valleys and plains interwoven with the mountainous terrain. Present day Sulthan Bathery is not only the largest town in Wayanad but also the hub of all tourism and commercial activities in the district. The regional population predominantly comprises of tribals and the economy is essentially agrarian in nature. Watch the scenic beauty of the place unfold before your eyes as you take a drive from Kalpatta to the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary at Muthanga. The historic town lies close to the Kerala - Karnataka border.
Bathery Jain Temple
The Jain Temple of Sulthan Bathery built in the 13th century has withstood the tests of time – having served as a place of worship for Jains, Hindus and later used as an ammunition store (battery) by Tipu Sulthan’s army. This place of historic importance is one of the prominent tourist attractions here. The temple has quite a few exquisite stone carvings.
Ambalavayal Heritage Museum
This heritage museum, situated 12 km to the south of Sulthan Bathery, is one of the largest and best archaeological museums in the State. Exhibits in the museum include many 2nd century rare artifacts including ancient stone weapons, hunting equipments, clay sculptures and other interesting related artifacts. These rare exhibits, evidencing the existence of an advanced civilization in the mountainous terrains of Wayanad, lure archaeologists, historians and lay people alike. The museum also has an interesting display of stone engravings known as Hero Stones that portrays the valorous feats of the ancient tribal warriors.
Edakkal Caves (Open 0900-1700 hrs)
Edakkal caves are situated on the Ambukuthi Mountains at a distance of about 16 km from Sulthan Bathery. Located at an altitude of 1000 m above MSL, is a set of three caves, considered to be one amongst the earliest sites of human settlement on the face of the planet. Each of these caves has numerous ancient stone scripts, various animal and human figurines, symbols, ancient weaponry figures et cetera depicted on the walls. These depictions, estimated to be over 3000 years old, have contemporaries only in Stiriya in the European Alps and a few places in Africa.
Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary
En route from Sulthan Bathery to Mysore is the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary at Muthanga. The sanctuary is a safe haven for a diverse variety of flora and fauna including many rare and endangered ones. This fragile eco-system falls under the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. The sanctuary shares borders with the Nagarhole and Bandipur reserves of Karnataka and with the Mudumalai reserve of Tamilnadu. Wayanad Sanctuary puts much emphasis on scientific conservation measures that are eco-friendly and sustainable.
Chethalayam Falls
This gorgeous cascade is located near Sulthan Batheri. To reach this waterfall one has to trek through 4 km across the hilly terrain.
Vythiri
Imagine walking around soft undulating hills, surrounded by lush green plantations in a weather that is wet, cool and a perfect complement to the pristine ambience all around. Welcome to the Wayanad district of Kerala, a must visit while on a tour to “God’s Own Country”! If you are planning a holiday in Kerala, make sure you include a trip to Vythiri, a beautiful hill resort tucked away amidst the green slopes of the Western Ghats in Wayanad.
Lakkidi
Popularly known as the ‘Gateway of Wayanad’, Lakkidi is an ideal place to experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Wayanad. Located at an altitude of 700 m above MSL, Lakkidi is blessed with the abounding gifts of nature. The exciting drive up to Lakkidi along the nine hairpin bends is in itself a thrilling experience. Lying close to Lakkidi is an amazing vantage point – the Lakkidi View Point, offering dazzling views of the surrounding cliffs and valleys.
Pookot Lake
The Pookot freshwater lake, 3 km from Lakkidi, has a fresh water aquarium, a children’s park and facilities for boat riding. Pookot Lake, lying amidst picturesque tropical vegetation and hills, is one of the natural, fresh water bodies of Wayanad.
PhantomRock
Close to the Ambalavayal town is a skull shaped rock formation known popularly as the Phantom Rock. Locally known as Chancery Mala, this skull shaped rock is situated amidst scenic surroundings.

Vythiri Hill Station
Vythiri Hill Station
Imagine walking around soft undulating hills, surrounded by lush green plantations in a weather that is wet, cool and a perfect complement to the pristine ambience all around. Welcome to the Wayanad district of Kerala, a must visit while on a tour to “God’s Own Country”! If you are planning a holiday in Kerala, make sure you include a trip to Vythiri, a beautiful hill resort tucked away amidst the green slopes of the Western Ghats in Wayanad.
Vythiri is located at a distance of around
From Bangalore: 282 Kms
Kozhikode (Calicut): 60 Kms
Kalpetta: 15 kms
Karapura - 100 kms
Madikeri - 200 kms
Ooty: 140 kms
Mysore: 140 kms
Bandipur - 110 kms
Mudumalai - 110 kms

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Varkala
Varkala
Varkala Beach
Telephone access code: +91 -470
Air: Nearest Airport is Thiruvanathapuram International Airport (55 km)
Rail: Varkala has its own railway station. You can board a train from Thiruvanathapuram to Kollam or Kochi and get down here. But you need to check if the particular train has a stop at Varkala.
Road: Varkala is nearer to Kollam.It is 35 km away from Kollam,2 hrs from Thirunanathapuram and 4 hrs from Eranakulam.
Varkala beach is located 55 Km north of Thiruvananthapuram, the capital of Kerala. The beach is a popular holiday destination among those looking for relaxed and quiet holidays.Varkala beach is also called ' Papanashini' since it is believed that a dip in the holy waters of Varkala beach will purify your body and soul.Varkala Beach is also renowned for its scenic land scape.The contrast between the cliffs, sand and sea makes Beach a bewitching sight. The sunset at Varkala beach is truly breathtaking.
Papanasam Beach
A remarkable feature here is the long stretch of red laterite cliffs fringing the beach. The cliff top is an ideal place to watch the sunset. Natural spring, said to have curative properties, originates from the cliff.
Janardhana Swamy Temple
(Open 0400-1200 hrs, 1700-2000 hrs)
Varkala is also famous for its 900 year old Janardhana Swami temple which is an important Vaishnavaite shrine in India and is referred to as Dakshin Kashi (Benares of the south). The temple is located close to the Papanasam beach. The temple has an ancient bell removed from a shipwreck, donated by the captain of the Dutch vessel which sank near Varkala without causing any casualties.
Sivagiri Mutt
(Open 0530 -1200 hrs, 1630 – 1800 hrs)
200 acres of sanctified land, this is the final resting place of the most eminent leader, saint and social reformer of Kerala Sree Narayana Guru. The Mahasamadhi of the humble belongings are kept on display.

Poovar
Poovar
Poovar is one among the natural wonders where the Lake, River, Sea and Beach meet the land. A rare find in Kerala, the southern state of India
Poovar is unspoilt and unexplored, envoloped by the most serene backwaters, and opening out to the sea and a dream golden sand beach.The historical importance of Poovar has its strong ties with the legendary King of the erstwhile Princely State of Travancore, the great Marthanda Varma Maharaja
Raja Marthanda Varma ( 1706 - 1761 ) was born at a time when the royal power of his family was declining. In fact, the Raja was once outsted from his throne and in exile. But, a strong ruler, Marthanda Varama Maharaja not only regained his lost land but also enlarged his kingdom besides reasserting the royal power during his 29-year rule from 1729 to 1758. And, the success story of the Maharaja had close links with the small and beautiful land of Povar, situated on the south of the Neyyar River
Nearest Airport - Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum) International Airport : (travel time - 45 minutes by road. Nearest railway station Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum) - (travel time - 45 minutes by road
Poovar Beach, near the Kovalam Beach, separates the River Neyyar from the sea. Poovar is basically a fishing village and the only way to reach Poovar is through water. Known for its pristine and virginal beauty, Poovar Beach is haunted by those who love solitude. Beach activities and water sports are not developed in this beach because of the fishing population. The estuary there is one among the natural wonders where the Lake, River, Sea and Beach meet the land, and is situated adjacent to the Poovar Island; a rare find in Kerala, the southern state of India. It is enveloped by the most serene backwaters and opening out to the Sea and a dream golden beach
Poovar is truly a window into paradise. Time stopped a few decades ago bowing to the sheer beauty of Poovar. The tranquility of Poovar is punctuated by the sound of waves and the birds. The area is abundant in well-preserved local flora, with hundreds of species of spices, exotic flowers, complete with banana and coconut groves
Poovar offers several possibilities. Cruise to a neighbouring fishing village in 2 minutes. Alter course, and visit a centuries old martial arts village. Kerala is the birthplace of a unique martial art form. The traditional lifestyles here provide the experience of a natural museum
The Poovar beach separates the river from the sea and is quite breathtaking. Because of the active fishing population the beach is not really used as a sunbathing spot or for swimming as the currents are quite strong..

Periyar (Thekkady)
Periyar (Thekkady)
Kumily:
An important shopping center and spice trade center, the main bus station and most of the medium range a accommodation in the Periyar region are in Kumily.
Pandikuzhy:
A popular picnic spot, Pandikuzhy offers great opportunities for trekking and is a photographer’s delight. Situated between Chellarkovil and the Tamilnadu border.5 km from Kumily.
Mangala Devi Temple:
Visitors are allowed only on the Chitra Pournami festival. Permission to visit the area can be obtained from the wildlife warden, Thekkady.The ancient temple is hidden the dense woods at the top of a peak 1337 m above sea level.
Vandiperiyar:
A major trade center, Vandiperiyar is also home to a number of tea factories .The Government Agriculture Farm and Flower Garden has a delightful array of rose plants, Orchids and anthuria.
Vandanmedu:
This is one of the world’s largest auction centers for Cardamom .25 km from Kumily.
Peerumedu:
Altitude: 915 -1100 m above sea level.Temparature: 13 degree C -24 degree C.Rain fall: 2500 mm
Kuttikkanam:
A place for adventure tourism and trekking, or even a languorous, tranquil break. This picturesque plantation town washed in the fragrance of cardamom is surrounded by lush, green hills.
Thrissanku hills:
The rolling hills, the lovely landscape and the gentle breeze make this an ideal spot for long walks. The hills offer a breathtaking view of the sun rise and sunset.
Grampi:
Grampi is also known as Parunthupara (eagle rock) because of the panoramic views form its high peaks. The road to Grampi is flanked by unending stretches of Cardamom, tea and coffee plantations.
Pattumala:
Pattumala is home to two famous tea plantations, Harrisons Malayalam and AV Thomas&Co.Lofty peaks, small streams and ever expanding plantations are the attractions of this place.
Vagamon:
The chain of three hills Thangal hill, Murugan hill and Kurisumala is a mark of religious harmony. The diary farm managed by the Kurisumala monks is worth visit.
Ramakkalmedu:
A mountain peak that can give you a bird’s eye view of Western Ghats and the plains of Tamilnadu below. Also you can see here Kerala’s biggest statue of Kuravan&Kurathi the two historical characters of local community who’s name where given to the rocks between which the Idukki Arch dam was built.28 km from Kumily.
Kailasam:
39 km from Thekkady towards Munnar.This 1500 acres of land was inherited by the “Chettiars” of Devakotai.This was later taken over by “njavallil” family of Kanjirapally who have been basically planters.

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Pathanamthitta
Pathanamthitta
Konni: (11 km from Pathanamthitta)
The hilly area of Konni, located 11 km from Pathanamthitta, is the gate-way to the forest bordering the district. Surrounded by acres of thick forest, it is an adventurous tourist spot where one can go for thrilling elephant safaris and trekking. Konni has the largest number of wild elephants in the state and is a major elephant training center. In the past, wild elephants caught from the forests were brought here and put in wooden cages known as 'anakoodu' (Elephant Cage) till they were properly trained. After 1972, elephant hunting was stopped since the central government put an end to this crude old method of elephant catching and training.
Kodumon Chilanthiyambalam 🙁 15 km from Pathnamthitta)
Water of the Chilanthikinar (well) in the premises of this Durga Bhagavathi Temple is believed to cure skin disease.
Sabarimala: (65 km from Pathanamthitta, 180 km from Thiruvanathapuram and 210 km from Kochi)One of the Most famous pilgrim center in India.Sabarimala is situated on the mountain ranges of Western Ghat an altitude of 914 m above sea level and is accessible by foot from Pamba.Pamba is known as the Thriveni Sangamon means the meeting point of three rivers. The temple is dedicated to Lord Ayappa.Pilgrim season: November to mid January. The temple stays closed for the rest of the year except on the first five days of every Malayalam month and during Vishu (April).
Aranmula: (13 km from Pathanamthitta).
Aranmula is a small town near Pathanamthitta which is famous for its boat races and metal mirrors. Take a Tour to Aranmula to know more about the traditional lifestyle of Kerala. Located on the banks of River Pamba, the Aranmula is a famous backwater destination.
Aranmula Parthasarathy temple
Dedicated to Sree Krishna, this temple on the banks of holy river Pamba attracts large crowds of devotees. It is said that the idol was brought here in a raft made with aru (six) pieces of mula (Bamboo).
Aranmula Boat Race
The famed Aranmula boat race is held on the last day of the weeklong Onam festival (Aug/Sep). The snake boats assemble near the Sri Parthasarathy Temple before the grand procession. Each boat is 100 ft. long and accommodates 4 helmsmen, 100 oarsmen, and 25 singers. The snake boats move in pairs to the rhythm of full-throated singing and shouting, watched by an excited crowd. This boat race commemorates the consecration of the idol at the Parthasarahy temple, 700 years ago.
Aranmulakannadi
Aranmula metal mirror manufacturing was stared on early 18th Centuary.It represents fascinating area of culture and technological curiosity. Mysteries in its creation, unequelled in its beauty, this metal mirror, a medieval Dravidian marvel in the annals of metallurgy was in vogue long before the appearance of today’s silicon mirror.Aranmulakannadi is an alloy of copper and white led is mixed in a particular ratio to make this non-refractive mirror, which is a closely guarded family secret.
Vijana Kala Vedi: (Open 1000-1600 hrs, except on weekends)
Located at Aranmula, 16kms from Pathanamthitta, Vijnana Kala Vedi is a cultural center which imparts training in the traditional arts and crafts of Kerala. This training center as well as charitable association was founded in 1977 by a lady French scholar, Louba Schild with the support of UNESCO. The main object of this school is to offer opportunities to the foreign artists, researchers and culturally oriented tourists to be more familiar with Indian culture and art. It is a traditional school for Kath kali, mohiniattam, bharatanatyam, karnatic music, tabla, maddalam, hatha yoga, mural painting, wood carving, cooking, kolam, kalarippayatt etc and a language school for the learning of Sanskrit, Hindi and Malayalam. It is also a centre for volunteers to teach English in India. A large number of foreigners visit and stay here to get to know about the culture of Kerala.
Vaastu Vidya Gurukulam: (Near parthasarathy temple, Open 0900-1600 hrs)
Vasthu sasthra is the branch of Veda which deals with traditional Indian way of environmental friendly construction adopting universal principles of creation. This is a combination of science engineering and spirituality.
Vastu vidya came from, Sanskrit word Vas & Vidya. Vas means dwell and Vidya is knowledge is stated to spring from Sthapadya Veda the sub Veda of Atharvaveda. Traditional Kerala temple is an excellent example of Vasthu designing. This institution, under department of Culture, gives out consultancy services for Vastu vidya and Mural painting (Traditional Kerala Temple painting)
Pandalam 🙁 18 km south of Thiruvalla on the MC road. Open 0530-12000hrs, 1730 -1900 hrs). Pathanamthitta has rightly been labeled as the headquarters of pilgrimage tourism in Kerala. In this small district in the state of Kerala there are several pilgrim centers. Pandalam is one such holy center which is frequented by a large number of tourists each year. It is second only to Sabrimala in importance and holiness.
According to legend, a Pandya king purchased land from Kaipuzha Thampan, a local landlord and left his state of Tamil Nadu to settle here. It is believed that his son is an incarnation of Lord Ayyappa.
Maramon
Maramon is a small town on the Pampa River opposite to Kozhencherry town in the state of Kerala. Maramon is the venue of mammoth religious convention of Christians from all over the world. This is perhaps the largest Christian convention in Asia.
Gavi: (18 km from Kumily and 28 km from Vandiperiyar)
Gavi recounts a tranquil, mesmerizing and pristine wilderness treat! Yes, with every turn and sight you encounter nature at its unadulterated best – sprawling grasslands, cascading waterfalls, hills and valleys with its dear inhabitants. One of the off-track destinations in the state of Kerala, the place is the result of the eco-tourism initiatives from the Kerala Forest Development Corporation. Owing to its abundant and magnificent wildlife reserves and raw geographical milieu, a major portion of the tourists here are nature lovers or adventurists.Trekking, bird watching and boating facilities are available here. Forest department provides tented accommodation and boating facilities.
