Kerala is also called Gods own country. Kerala is an important Tourist destination in India. Kerala is closely linked with its commerce, which until recent times revolved around its spice trade. Celebrated as the Spice Coast of India, ancient Kerala played host to travelers and traders from across the world including the Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch, French and the British. Almost all of them have left their imprint on this land in some form or the other - architecture, cuisine, literature. Kerala has lot of Beaches, Hill Stations, Wild life Sanctuaries, Water Falls, Rivers, Dam, Sanctuaries, Pilgrimage, Tea Estates and Ayurvedic Medicines and a perfect destination for Travel, Tourism, Holidays, Honeymoon, Art, Culture, Tradition, Health Care, Yoga, Ayurveda and Meditation, Hotels, Accommodation, Heritage, Art forms and People . Some very important spots are listed below… If you are planning to visit Kerala, make sure you don't miss any of these.
KOVALAM
Kovalam, meaning "a groove of coconut trees," is just 10 km from the state capital of Kerala- Thiruvananthapuram. Kovalam is actually a combination of three small beaches. Among these, the southernmost beach, named LighthouseBeach, is the most frequented beach in Kovalam. Earlier this beach of Kovalam was an anglers' paradise. It still has some small villages, just a few kilometres away, which belong to the fishing community. Gradually, this beach of Kovalam has been transformed to a tourist spot of great interest. Kovalam is an ideal place for a sunbath during the winter. Tourists to Kovalam can also experience the typical Kerala massage from the parlours available a few kilometers away along the Kovalam beaches.
VIZHINJAM
About 2kms south of Kovalam, it is believed to be an ancient port. The Dutch and Portugese had commercial establishments here. It is being developed as a modern fishing harbour.
VARKALA
Varkala is a seaside resort and spa. It is also an important Hindu center of pilgrimage. The final resting place of the great social reformer, Sree Narayana Guru, is near Varkala, atop a hill called Sivagiri. High cliffs with mineral springs rise majestically from the coastline. According to a myth, sage Narada was approached by a group of mendicants who confessed to having sinned. Narada threw his valkkalam (cloth made of the bark of a tree) into the air, and the place where it landed was subsequently named Varkala. The mendicants were directed by Narada to offer their prayers in the newly created place by the seashore. The place where they prayed for redemption came to be known as the PapanashamBeach (Papanasham means redemption from sins). The 2000-year-old SreeJanardhanaSwamyTemple and the NatureCareCenter are the two main attractions here.
PEPPARA WILDLIFE SANCTUARY(50km from Thiruvananthapuram)
This sanctuary spread over 53 sq. km on the Western Ghats, is accessible from Vithurai, which is on the way to Ponmudi. With its rich flora and fauna, Peppara, dotted with hillocks, forests and eucalyptus plantations, is emerging as a great attraction for wildlife enthusiasts.Located at about 50 km northeast of Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala, the Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most beautiful wildlife sanctuaries of Kerala.
VELI LAGOON
Boat club attracts tourists by providing facilities for pedal boating , row boating , swimming on the placid waters of the veli lake. An exciting place for picnics, the VeliTouristVillage is built near the Veli lagoon fringed with greenery and easily accessible by road. Veli is located 8 kms from Thiruvananthapuram city. The village provides an excellent atmosphere for relaxing. A beautifully landscaped garden and facilities for swimming, boating, etc, on the placid waters of the lake attract hundreds of visitors everyday.The village is borded by Veli lagoon and Arabian sea which makes it one of the picturesque location. The lagoon is separated from the sea by narrow sand bar.
SHREE PADHMANABHA SWAMY TEMPLE
The village is 30 Kms. South east of Cochin. Since there are no industries here, the village is free from all types of pollution. The main occupation of the villagers is making ropes with coconut fiber, mat weaving with leaves of wild-pineapple collecting sand from river-bed, fishing and farming.
KUTHIRAMALIKA
(Puthenmalika)PalaceMuseum: (Open 0830 - 1230 hrs & 1530 - 1730 hrs. Closed on Mondays.) The palace was built by Maharaja Swathi Thirunal Balarama Varma - the King of Travancore, who was a great poet, musician, social reformer and statesman. This rare specimen of workmanship in the traditional Travancore style of architecture also has exquisite woodcarvings. The palace museum displays paintings and various priceless collections of the royal family and is located near the SreePadmanabhaSwamyTemple.
NAPIER MUSEUM
(Open 1000 - 1700 hrs. Closed on Mondays & Wednesday forenoons) Built in the 19th century, the Indo - Saracenic structure boasts a "natural" air conditioning system and houses a rare collection of archaeological and historic artifacts, bronze idols, ancient ornaments, a temple chariot and ivory carvings. The use of plastic is banned in the museum premises.
SREE CHITRA ART GALLERY
(Open 1000 - 1700 hrs. Closed on Mondays & Wednesday forenoons) Located near the Napier Museum, this art gallery displays select paintings of Raja Ravi Varma, Svetlova and Nicholas Roerich and exquisite works from the Rajput, Mughal and Tanjore schools of art in India. The collection also includes paintings from China, Japan, Tibet and Bali.
ZOOLOGICAL PARK
Open 1000 - 1700 hrs. Closed on Mondays.) One of the first zoos in India, it is located in a well-planned botanical garden. With huge trees like frangipani and jacaranda dotting the sprawling lawns and wild fowl swimming in the lake, it is like a small jungle in the heart of the city. A reptile house with different species of snakes is also located in the premises.
KANAKAKUNNU PALACE:
The palace and its sprawling grounds are today the venue for many cultural meets and programs.
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY MUSEUM COMPLEX:
A(Open 1000 - 1700 hrs. Closed on Mondays.) The exhibits here are related to science, technology and electronics.
SHANGHUMUGHAM BEACH
Just 8 km from the city, this is a favorite haunt of sunset watchers. The beach is adjacent to the TrivandrumAirport and VeliTouristVillage. An indoor recreation club, the 'matsya kanyaka' (a gigantic, 35 m long sculpture of a mermaid) and a restaurant shaped like a starfish are some of the attractions here. ChachaNehruTrafficTrainingPark here provides opportunity for children to learn the traffic rules.
AKKULAMTOURISTVILLAGE
(Open 1000 - 1700 hrs). A picnic spot with boating facilities, Akkulam is a place children flock to. It has a well-equipped children's park and a paddle pool. There is a swimming pool for adults too.
NEYYAR DAM
A popular picnic spot, Neyyar Dam has a watch tower, crocodile farm, lion safari park and deer park. Boating facilities are available at the reservoir.
AGASTHYAKOODAM
Part of the Sahyadri range of mountains, Agasthyakoodam is the second highest peak in Kerala, at a height of 1890 meters above sea level. Teeming with wildlife, the forests of Agasthyakoodam abound in rare medicinal herbs and plants and brilliantly hued orchids. A bird watcher's paradise, this legendary mountain is accessible by foot from Kotoor, near Neyyar Dam, as also from Bonacaud. The season from December to April is advocated for trekking, for which a forest pass has to be obtained from the Wildlife Warden, Forest Department, PTP Nagar, Trivandrum.
PALARUVI WATERFALLS (75 km from Kollam town)
Palaruvi which means "milky stream" makes its `milky way' down the rocks, falling from a height of 300 feet. The Palaruvi woods is a beautiful picnic spot. There are frequent buses to Ariankavu from Kollam. The PWD Inspection Bungalow and the KTDC Motel offer comfortable accommodation.
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ARYANKAVU (70 km from Kollam town)
Situated on the Kollam - Shenkottai road, Ariankavu is famous for the shrine dedicated to Lord Sastha. Mandala Pooja and Trikalyanam celebrated in the month of December are the main festivals here.
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THENMALA (66 km east of Kollam)
The area is covered by dense forest, rubber and tea plantations. An Eco Tourism Development Project is under implementation here. Thenmala is also a dam site.
KULATHUPUZHA (64 km from Kollam town)
Situated on a forest range on the Thiruvananthapuram - Shenkottai road, Kulathupuzha is known for the Sastha temple. The Vishu Mahotsavam in April/May is the most important festival. There are frequent buses from Kollam to Kulathupuzha.The Thenmala railway station is just 10 km from here.
ASHTAMUDI LAKE
Kollam is situated on the banks of scenic and calm AshtamudiLake. LakeAshtamudi is one of the biggest Backwaters of Kerala.
SHENDURNI WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
Shendurni Wildlife Sanctuary located 70 kms from Kollam, on the Kollam-Shencotta Road, is a green valley of splendid forests, situated on the banks of the ShendurnyRiver. Steep and rugged peaks surround the sanctuary, which is dotted by several breathtaking ravines. On the northern side of the sanctuary is Palaruvi, a beautiful picnic spot. In the tropical evergreen and mixed deciduous forests here are found a variety of animals.
SABARIMALA SREE DHARMA SASHTHA TEMPLE
A well known pilgrim centre of Kerala, Sabarimala lies 191kms away from Thiruvananthapuram and 210kms away from Kochi (Cochin). The holy shrine dedicated to Lord Ayyappa is situated 914metres above sea level amidst dense forests in the rugged rerrains of the Western Ghats. Lord Ayyappa is looked upon as the guardian of mountains and there are several shrines dedicated to him all along the Western Ghats. The festivals here are the Mandala Pooja, Makara Vilakku (December/January), and Vishu Vilakku (april). The temple is also open for pooja on the every Malayalam month. The vehicle go only up to Pamba and the temple which is situated five kms away from Pamba can be reached only by trekking. During the festival period there are frequent buses to this place from Kochi (Cochin), Thiruvanathapuram and Kottayam. The nearest railway station is Thiruvalla.
PANDALAM
Pandalam is perhaps second only to Sabarimala, in sanctity and significance. Lord Ayyappa, the presiding diety of Sabarimala had his human sojourn as the son of Raja of Pandalam. It is believed that the Raja constructed a temple close to his palace on the banks of river Achankoil modeled on the Sbarimala shrine which is the present Valiya Koickal temple. Pilgrims usually wiorship here before proceding to Sabarimala. Three days prior to Makaravilakku, the chest containing Thiruvabharanam (the sacred ornaments of Lord Ayyappa kept here) is taken in a procession from Pandalam to Sabarimala. The nearest railway station is Chengannur.
CHANDRAGIRI FORT
This fort was built in the 17th century by Sivappa Nayaka of Bedanore. The fort has an ancient temple and holds a festival where the deity is taken to Thrikkanaya Temple at Bekal.
BEKAL FORT
The Bekal Fort is the largest fort in Kerala that is located on a hilltop, giving a scenic view of the picturesque countryside
VALAPATTANAM
Famous for timber trade, Valapattanam, situated about 8 k.m north of Kannur has a pride of place in the world map for its wood based industries.Valapattanam was once considered third in the world for timber operations. Having to depend only on imports of logs, the place today wear a deserted look with Western India Plywoods being the only exception.Azhikkal port, an all weather medium port, is situated very near to Valapattnam.
THALASSERY FORT
Thalassery Fort 20 Kms away from Kannur was built on 20th August 1708, on a small hill called Thiruvallappad kunnu. This fort was a formidable stronghold in the past. There are several important tourist centres in Thalassery. The Church built beneath the Walls of the Fort with funds left by the Master attendant Mr. Edward Brennen and the large mosque known as Odathil Palli atracts several people. The Thiruvangad temple other wise known as brass Pagode, is dedicated to Sree Rama, Sree Jaganath Temple is next in importance. This temple dedicated to Siva was consecrated in February 1908 AD by the great religious reformer Sree Narayana Guru.
EZHIMALA
A place of historical importance Ezhimala ( Elimala) was the seat of Mooshika kings in the early periods. Ezhimala has found a place in the travelogues of Iban Bathutha and Marcopolo.Ezhimala is also considered to be a treasure chest of medicinal herbs, situated 286m, above sea level, it is a landmark to mariners, and is blessed with a long beautiful beach.The place is shortly going to find strategical importance in the Naval map of India. Ezhimala is situated 45 Km. north of Kannur.
SULTAN BATTERY EDAKKAL CAVES
The two caves are located at a height of 1000 m on Ambukutty Mala near Ambalavayal. The New Stone Age pictorial writings on the walls of these natural caves at Edakkal are evidence of the civilization that existed in these regions in prehistoric times. The caves can be accessed only by a 1 Km trekking trail from Edakkal. Morning hours are the best time to visit the caves. Entry is permitted only upto 5:00 pm.
CALICUT BEACH
This beach is a favorite haunt of sunset viewers. Adding to its natural beauty is the old world charm retained in the old lighthouse and the two crumbling piers, each more than a hundred years old, that run into the sea. Entertainment facilities such as the Lions Park for children and the marine water aquarium are added attractions.
KAPPAD BEACH (16 KM FROM CALICUT)
This is the historic beach where Vasco da Gama landed on the 27th of May 1498, with 170 men in three vessels. A monument on the beach commemorates this historic event.The rock-studded beach is locally known as Kappakadavu. An interesting feature of the landscape is the sprawling rock that protrudes into the sea. The temple on the rock is believed to be 800 years old.
BEYPORE (10 KM SOUTH OF CALICUT)
Located at the mouth of the Chaliyar river, Beypore, one of the prominent ports and fishing harbors of ancient Kerala was an important trade and maritime centre. Ancient Beypore was much sought after by merchants from Western Asia, for its shipbuilding industry. The boat-building yard here, famous for the construction of the Uru (the Arabian trading vessel), boasts a tradition of almost 1500 years.
PAZHASSIRAJA MUSEUM AND ART GALLERY (5 KM FROM CALICUT)
On display here are copies of ancient murals, antique bronzes, old coins, excavated earthenware, models of temples, megalithic monuments like dolmonoid cysts, umbrella stones etc. Adjacent to the museum is the Art Gallery, which exhibits an excellent collection of paintings by Raja Ravi Varma and Raja Raja Varma.
THIRUNAVAYA
The land of ancient Mamankom, Thirunavaya is 7 kms south of Tirur. Situated on the banks of Bharathapuzha, it is a place of historical importance. In olden days, Mamankam was a grand assembly of the rulers. held once in 12 years, in which one among them was selected as the emperor of Kerala. it was an enormous trade fair also. The Mamankam festival was celebrated for 28 days with great pomp and pageantry where traders from outside came in ships and barges to Thirunavaya through Ponnani port. Thus the economical importance of Mamankam was high and hence the right to conduct and control it was important.
KOTTAKKAL (CENTRE OF AYURVEDA)
Kottakkal is a world renowned centre of Ayurveda. The Arya Vaidya Sala, established by P.S. Warrier the well known physician and social reformer is here. People from different parts of the world come for treatment. Art and culture also flourish in Kottakkal with the patronage of Arya Vaidya Sala.P.S.V. Natyasanghom has a unique place in Kathakali. A Kathakali school is run by the sanghom. Venkata Theva temple near the Arya Vaidya sala, is noted for Mural paintings. Kottakkal Pooram festival attracts thousands. Connoisseurs of music, art, culture and literature of the country, participate in the cultural mela organized in connection with the pooram.
NILAMBUR (FOREST AREA)
Nilambur is famous for its teak plantations. The oldest teak plantation of the world, the Conolly's Plot is just 2 Kms. from Nilambur town. The plot was named in memory of H.V. Conolly, the then Malabar District Collector, who was instrumental in raising the teak plantation in the entire Nilambur area. Sir Chathu Menon, a forest officer under Conolly, took up the hectic task of planting Teak. Chathu Menon was laid to rest in the Teak garden in Conolly's Plot. The oldest Teak Kannimari in the plot is a rare attraction. This plot of 2.31 Hectares, is beside the Chaliyar river at Aruvakode, where a country boat ferry is ready for visitors.
PARAMBIKULAM
Sprawled across 285 Sq. Km. the Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary is home to rare wild animals. It is also inhabited by quite a few hill tribes like the Malayars, Kadars and Muthuvans. Boating / cruising facilities are available at the Parambikulam Reservoir. The Rest Houses of the State Forest Department at Thoonakkadavu, Thellikkal and Elathode offer accommodation. A tree-house in the reserved forest area in Thoonakkadavu has to be booked in advance.
SILENT VALLEY NATIONAL PARK
This 9000 hectare national park is believed to be the sole surviving bit of evergreen forest in the Sahya Ranges. The peculiarity of the Silent Valley forest is that it is devoid of the chirping of cicadas. Vehicular transport is only up to Mukkali, nearly 24 km from the park. The rest of the way has to be covered on foot up to the source of Kunthipuzha which flows through the valley before merging with the Bharathapuzha (Nila). There is huge, hollow tree in the park which can hide at least 12 people in it.
MALAMPUZHA
This famous picnic spot which comprises a dam and a beautiful landscaped garden is situated on the lower hills of the Western Ghats. There are frequent buses to this place from Palakkad. Malampuzha is one of the important tourist places in Kerala, located in Palakkad district just kms away Palakkad town. Malampuzha is situated on the lower hills of Western ghats. Major tourist attractions are Malampuzha Garden, Malampuzha Dam, Fresh water aquarium, Children park, Snake park, Telescopic tower, Rock garden,Passenger ropeway etc.
ATHIRAPALLY AND VAZHACHAL WATERFALLS
East of Chalakudy, near the entrance of the Sholayar forest ranges are the beautiful waterfalls of Athirapally and Vazhachal, 5 kms apart.
KERALA KALAMANDALAM
Founded in 1930, this is a center for reviving, preserving and developing the traditional art forms of Kerala especially Kathakali. It is also one of the major tourist attractions in Thrissur. North of Thrissur, 29 kms away, near the Shoranur Railway junction is Cheruthuruthy, home of the renowned repository of the tradition of the Kathakali dance form. It is in this academy that the best of Kerala's Kathakali performers get their training. The institution also offers training in music, drama and other dance forms including Mohiniyattam, Koodiyattam and Ottam Thullal.
LAKKIDI
Lakkidi, the gateway to Wayanad, is situated 700 m above mean sea level, at the crest of the Thamarasseri Ghat pass. Lofty peaks, gurgling streams and luxuriant forests add magic to the journey up the winding roads ti this hill station.
POOKOT LAKE
This perennial fresh water lake, nestled among wooded hills, is the only one of its kind in Kerala. Boating facilities, a children's park, a handicrafts and spices emporium and a fresh water aquarium are among the tourist facilities available here. The lake is 3 Km south of Vythiri Resorts.
NAGARHOLE WILDLIFE SANCTUARIES
This sanctuary in Karnataka State extends over an area of 634.39 Sq. Km. The park houses diverse species of plant and animal life. It is about 40 Km from Mananthavady
THIRUNELLY TEMPLE
Surrounded by Kambamala. Karimala and Varadiga, the Thirunelly temple is a marvel of temple architecture. The shrine is shielded with 30 granite. The crystal clear waters of the Papanasini river running downhill adds to the enchantment of the place.
GURUVAYOOR
29kms away from Thrissur, this is also one of the most sacred pilgrimage centers in the state. The presiding deity is Lord Krishna. Legend has it that Guru, the preceptor of Gods and Vayu, the God of wind, created the temple.
KOVALAM
Kovalam, meaning "a groove of coconut trees," is just 10 km from the state capital of Kerala- Thiruvananthapuram. Kovalam is actually a combination of three small beaches. Among these, the southernmost beach, named LighthouseBeach, is the most frequented beach in Kovalam. Earlier this beach of Kovalam was an anglers' paradise. It still has some small villages, just a few kilometres away, which belong to the fishing community. Gradually, this beach of Kovalam has been transformed to a tourist spot of great interest. Kovalam is an ideal place for a sunbath during the winter. Tourists to Kovalam can also experience the typical Kerala massage from the parlours available a few kilometers away along the Kovalam beaches.
VIZHINJAM
About 2kms south of Kovalam, it is believed to be an ancient port. The Dutch and Portugese had commercial establishments here. It is being developed as a modern fishing harbour.
VARKALA
Varkala is a seaside resort and spa. It is also an important Hindu center of pilgrimage. The final resting place of the great social reformer, Sree Narayana Guru, is near Varkala, atop a hill called Sivagiri. High cliffs with mineral springs rise majestically from the coastline. According to a myth, sage Narada was approached by a group of mendicants who confessed to having sinned. Narada threw his valkkalam (cloth made of the bark of a tree) into the air, and the place where it landed was subsequently named Varkala. The mendicants were directed by Narada to offer their prayers in the newly created place by the seashore. The place where they prayed for redemption came to be known as the PapanashamBeach (Papanasham means redemption from sins). The 2000-year-old SreeJanardhanaSwamyTemple and the NatureCareCenter are the two main attractions here.
PEPPARA WILDLIFE SANCTUARY(50km from Thiruvananthapuram)
This sanctuary spread over 53 sq. km on the Western Ghats, is accessible from Vithurai, which is on the way to Ponmudi. With its rich flora and fauna, Peppara, dotted with hillocks, forests and eucalyptus plantations, is emerging as a great attraction for wildlife enthusiasts.Located at about 50 km northeast of Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala, the Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most beautiful wildlife sanctuaries of Kerala.
VELI LAGOON
Boat club attracts tourists by providing facilities for pedal boating , row boating , swimming on the placid waters of the veli lake. An exciting place for picnics, the VeliTouristVillage is built near the Veli lagoon fringed with greenery and easily accessible by road. Veli is located 8 kms from Thiruvananthapuram city. The village provides an excellent atmosphere for relaxing. A beautifully landscaped garden and facilities for swimming, boating, etc, on the placid waters of the lake attract hundreds of visitors everyday.The village is borded by Veli lagoon and Arabian sea which makes it one of the picturesque location. The lagoon is separated from the sea by narrow sand bar.
SHREE PADHMANABHA SWAMY TEMPLE
The village is 30 Kms. South east of Cochin. Since there are no industries here, the village is free from all types of pollution. The main occupation of the villagers is making ropes with coconut fiber, mat weaving with leaves of wild-pineapple collecting sand from river-bed, fishing and farming.
KUTHIRAMALIKA
(Puthenmalika)PalaceMuseum: (Open 0830 - 1230 hrs & 1530 - 1730 hrs. Closed on Mondays.) The palace was built by Maharaja Swathi Thirunal Balarama Varma - the King of Travancore, who was a great poet, musician, social reformer and statesman. This rare specimen of workmanship in the traditional Travancore style of architecture also has exquisite woodcarvings. The palace museum displays paintings and various priceless collections of the royal family and is located near the SreePadmanabhaSwamyTemple.
NAPIER MUSEUM
(Open 1000 - 1700 hrs. Closed on Mondays & Wednesday forenoons) Built in the 19th century, the Indo - Saracenic structure boasts a "natural" air conditioning system and houses a rare collection of archaeological and historic artifacts, bronze idols, ancient ornaments, a temple chariot and ivory carvings. The use of plastic is banned in the museum premises.
SREE CHITRA ART GALLERY
(Open 1000 - 1700 hrs. Closed on Mondays & Wednesday forenoons) Located near the Napier Museum, this art gallery displays select paintings of Raja Ravi Varma, Svetlova and Nicholas Roerich and exquisite works from the Rajput, Mughal and Tanjore schools of art in India. The collection also includes paintings from China, Japan, Tibet and Bali.
ZOOLOGICAL PARK
Open 1000 - 1700 hrs. Closed on Mondays.) One of the first zoos in India, it is located in a well-planned botanical garden. With huge trees like frangipani and jacaranda dotting the sprawling lawns and wild fowl swimming in the lake, it is like a small jungle in the heart of the city. A reptile house with different species of snakes is also located in the premises.
KANAKAKUNNU PALACE:
The palace and its sprawling grounds are today the venue for many cultural meets and programs.
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY MUSEUM COMPLEX:
A(Open 1000 - 1700 hrs. Closed on Mondays.) The exhibits here are related to science, technology and electronics.
SHANGHUMUGHAM BEACH
Just 8 km from the city, this is a favorite haunt of sunset watchers. The beach is adjacent to the TrivandrumAirport and VeliTouristVillage. An indoor recreation club, the 'matsya kanyaka' (a gigantic, 35 m long sculpture of a mermaid) and a restaurant shaped like a starfish are some of the attractions here. ChachaNehruTrafficTrainingPark here provides opportunity for children to learn the traffic rules.
AKKULAMTOURISTVILLAGE
(Open 1000 - 1700 hrs). A picnic spot with boating facilities, Akkulam is a place children flock to. It has a well-equipped children's park and a paddle pool. There is a swimming pool for adults too.
NEYYAR DAM
A popular picnic spot, Neyyar Dam has a watch tower, crocodile farm, lion safari park and deer park. Boating facilities are available at the reservoir.
AGASTHYAKOODAM
Part of the Sahyadri range of mountains, Agasthyakoodam is the second highest peak in Kerala, at a height of 1890 meters above sea level. Teeming with wildlife, the forests of Agasthyakoodam abound in rare medicinal herbs and plants and brilliantly hued orchids. A bird watcher's paradise, this legendary mountain is accessible by foot from Kotoor, near Neyyar Dam, as also from Bonacaud. The season from December to April is advocated for trekking, for which a forest pass has to be obtained from the Wildlife Warden, Forest Department, PTP Nagar, Trivandrum.
PALARUVI WATERFALLS (75 km from Kollam town)
Palaruvi which means "milky stream" makes its `milky way' down the rocks, falling from a height of 300 feet. The Palaruvi woods is a beautiful picnic spot. There are frequent buses to Ariankavu from Kollam. The PWD Inspection Bungalow and the KTDC Motel offer comfortable accommodation.
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ARYANKAVU (70 km from Kollam town)
Situated on the Kollam - Shenkottai road, Ariankavu is famous for the shrine dedicated to Lord Sastha. Mandala Pooja and Trikalyanam celebrated in the month of December are the main festivals here.
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THENMALA (66 km east of Kollam)
The area is covered by dense forest, rubber and tea plantations. An Eco Tourism Development Project is under implementation here. Thenmala is also a dam site.
KULATHUPUZHA (64 km from Kollam town)
Situated on a forest range on the Thiruvananthapuram - Shenkottai road, Kulathupuzha is known for the Sastha temple. The Vishu Mahotsavam in April/May is the most important festival. There are frequent buses from Kollam to Kulathupuzha.The Thenmala railway station is just 10 km from here.
ASHTAMUDI LAKE
Kollam is situated on the banks of scenic and calm AshtamudiLake. LakeAshtamudi is one of the biggest Backwaters of Kerala.
SHENDURNI WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
Shendurni Wildlife Sanctuary located 70 kms from Kollam, on the Kollam-Shencotta Road, is a green valley of splendid forests, situated on the banks of the ShendurnyRiver. Steep and rugged peaks surround the sanctuary, which is dotted by several breathtaking ravines. On the northern side of the sanctuary is Palaruvi, a beautiful picnic spot. In the tropical evergreen and mixed deciduous forests here are found a variety of animals.
SABARIMALA SREE DHARMA SASHTHA TEMPLE
A well known pilgrim centre of Kerala, Sabarimala lies 191kms away from Thiruvananthapuram and 210kms away from Kochi (Cochin). The holy shrine dedicated to Lord Ayyappa is situated 914metres above sea level amidst dense forests in the rugged rerrains of the Western Ghats. Lord Ayyappa is looked upon as the guardian of mountains and there are several shrines dedicated to him all along the Western Ghats. The festivals here are the Mandala Pooja, Makara Vilakku (December/January), and Vishu Vilakku (april). The temple is also open for pooja on the every Malayalam month. The vehicle go only up to Pamba and the temple which is situated five kms away from Pamba can be reached only by trekking. During the festival period there are frequent buses to this place from Kochi (Cochin), Thiruvanathapuram and Kottayam. The nearest railway station is Thiruvalla.
PANDALAM
Pandalam is perhaps second only to Sabarimala, in sanctity and significance. Lord Ayyappa, the presiding diety of Sabarimala had his human sojourn as the son of Raja of Pandalam. It is believed that the Raja constructed a temple close to his palace on the banks of river Achankoil modeled on the Sbarimala shrine which is the present Valiya Koickal temple. Pilgrims usually wiorship here before proceding to Sabarimala. Three days prior to Makaravilakku, the chest containing Thiruvabharanam (the sacred ornaments of Lord Ayyappa kept here) is taken in a procession from Pandalam to Sabarimala. The nearest railway station is Chengannur.
CHANDRAGIRI FORT
This fort was built in the 17th century by Sivappa Nayaka of Bedanore. The fort has an ancient temple and holds a festival where the deity is taken to Thrikkanaya Temple at Bekal.
BEKAL FORT
The Bekal Fort is the largest fort in Kerala that is located on a hilltop, giving a scenic view of the picturesque countryside
VALAPATTANAM
Famous for timber trade, Valapattanam, situated about 8 k.m north of Kannur has a pride of place in the world map for its wood based industries.Valapattanam was once considered third in the world for timber operations. Having to depend only on imports of logs, the place today wear a deserted look with Western India Plywoods being the only exception.Azhikkal port, an all weather medium port, is situated very near to Valapattnam.
THALASSERY FORT
Thalassery Fort 20 Kms away from Kannur was built on 20th August 1708, on a small hill called Thiruvallappad kunnu. This fort was a formidable stronghold in the past. There are several important tourist centres in Thalassery. The Church built beneath the Walls of the Fort with funds left by the Master attendant Mr. Edward Brennen and the large mosque known as Odathil Palli atracts several people. The Thiruvangad temple other wise known as brass Pagode, is dedicated to Sree Rama, Sree Jaganath Temple is next in importance. This temple dedicated to Siva was consecrated in February 1908 AD by the great religious reformer Sree Narayana Guru.
EZHIMALA
A place of historical importance Ezhimala ( Elimala) was the seat of Mooshika kings in the early periods. Ezhimala has found a place in the travelogues of Iban Bathutha and Marcopolo.Ezhimala is also considered to be a treasure chest of medicinal herbs, situated 286m, above sea level, it is a landmark to mariners, and is blessed with a long beautiful beach.The place is shortly going to find strategical importance in the Naval map of India. Ezhimala is situated 45 Km. north of Kannur.
SULTAN BATTERY EDAKKAL CAVES
The two caves are located at a height of 1000 m on Ambukutty Mala near Ambalavayal. The New Stone Age pictorial writings on the walls of these natural caves at Edakkal are evidence of the civilization that existed in these regions in prehistoric times. The caves can be accessed only by a 1 Km trekking trail from Edakkal. Morning hours are the best time to visit the caves. Entry is permitted only upto 5:00 pm.
CALICUT BEACH
This beach is a favorite haunt of sunset viewers. Adding to its natural beauty is the old world charm retained in the old lighthouse and the two crumbling piers, each more than a hundred years old, that run into the sea. Entertainment facilities such as the Lions Park for children and the marine water aquarium are added attractions.
KAPPAD BEACH (16 KM FROM CALICUT)
This is the historic beach where Vasco da Gama landed on the 27th of May 1498, with 170 men in three vessels. A monument on the beach commemorates this historic event.The rock-studded beach is locally known as Kappakadavu. An interesting feature of the landscape is the sprawling rock that protrudes into the sea. The temple on the rock is believed to be 800 years old.
BEYPORE (10 KM SOUTH OF CALICUT)
Located at the mouth of the Chaliyar river, Beypore, one of the prominent ports and fishing harbors of ancient Kerala was an important trade and maritime centre. Ancient Beypore was much sought after by merchants from Western Asia, for its shipbuilding industry. The boat-building yard here, famous for the construction of the Uru (the Arabian trading vessel), boasts a tradition of almost 1500 years.
PAZHASSIRAJA MUSEUM AND ART GALLERY (5 KM FROM CALICUT)
On display here are copies of ancient murals, antique bronzes, old coins, excavated earthenware, models of temples, megalithic monuments like dolmonoid cysts, umbrella stones etc. Adjacent to the museum is the Art Gallery, which exhibits an excellent collection of paintings by Raja Ravi Varma and Raja Raja Varma.
THIRUNAVAYA
The land of ancient Mamankom, Thirunavaya is 7 kms south of Tirur. Situated on the banks of Bharathapuzha, it is a place of historical importance. In olden days, Mamankam was a grand assembly of the rulers. held once in 12 years, in which one among them was selected as the emperor of Kerala. it was an enormous trade fair also. The Mamankam festival was celebrated for 28 days with great pomp and pageantry where traders from outside came in ships and barges to Thirunavaya through Ponnani port. Thus the economical importance of Mamankam was high and hence the right to conduct and control it was important.
KOTTAKKAL (CENTRE OF AYURVEDA)
Kottakkal is a world renowned centre of Ayurveda. The Arya Vaidya Sala, established by P.S. Warrier the well known physician and social reformer is here. People from different parts of the world come for treatment. Art and culture also flourish in Kottakkal with the patronage of Arya Vaidya Sala.P.S.V. Natyasanghom has a unique place in Kathakali. A Kathakali school is run by the sanghom. Venkata Theva temple near the Arya Vaidya sala, is noted for Mural paintings. Kottakkal Pooram festival attracts thousands. Connoisseurs of music, art, culture and literature of the country, participate in the cultural mela organized in connection with the pooram.
NILAMBUR (FOREST AREA)
Nilambur is famous for its teak plantations. The oldest teak plantation of the world, the Conolly's Plot is just 2 Kms. from Nilambur town. The plot was named in memory of H.V. Conolly, the then Malabar District Collector, who was instrumental in raising the teak plantation in the entire Nilambur area. Sir Chathu Menon, a forest officer under Conolly, took up the hectic task of planting Teak. Chathu Menon was laid to rest in the Teak garden in Conolly's Plot. The oldest Teak Kannimari in the plot is a rare attraction. This plot of 2.31 Hectares, is beside the Chaliyar river at Aruvakode, where a country boat ferry is ready for visitors.
PARAMBIKULAM
Sprawled across 285 Sq. Km. the Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary is home to rare wild animals. It is also inhabited by quite a few hill tribes like the Malayars, Kadars and Muthuvans. Boating / cruising facilities are available at the Parambikulam Reservoir. The Rest Houses of the State Forest Department at Thoonakkadavu, Thellikkal and Elathode offer accommodation. A tree-house in the reserved forest area in Thoonakkadavu has to be booked in advance.
SILENT VALLEY NATIONAL PARK
This 9000 hectare national park is believed to be the sole surviving bit of evergreen forest in the Sahya Ranges. The peculiarity of the Silent Valley forest is that it is devoid of the chirping of cicadas. Vehicular transport is only up to Mukkali, nearly 24 km from the park. The rest of the way has to be covered on foot up to the source of Kunthipuzha which flows through the valley before merging with the Bharathapuzha (Nila). There is huge, hollow tree in the park which can hide at least 12 people in it.
MALAMPUZHA
This famous picnic spot which comprises a dam and a beautiful landscaped garden is situated on the lower hills of the Western Ghats. There are frequent buses to this place from Palakkad. Malampuzha is one of the important tourist places in Kerala, located in Palakkad district just kms away Palakkad town. Malampuzha is situated on the lower hills of Western ghats. Major tourist attractions are Malampuzha Garden, Malampuzha Dam, Fresh water aquarium, Children park, Snake park, Telescopic tower, Rock garden,Passenger ropeway etc.
ATHIRAPALLY AND VAZHACHAL WATERFALLS
East of Chalakudy, near the entrance of the Sholayar forest ranges are the beautiful waterfalls of Athirapally and Vazhachal, 5 kms apart.
KERALA KALAMANDALAM
Founded in 1930, this is a center for reviving, preserving and developing the traditional art forms of Kerala especially Kathakali. It is also one of the major tourist attractions in Thrissur. North of Thrissur, 29 kms away, near the Shoranur Railway junction is Cheruthuruthy, home of the renowned repository of the tradition of the Kathakali dance form. It is in this academy that the best of Kerala's Kathakali performers get their training. The institution also offers training in music, drama and other dance forms including Mohiniyattam, Koodiyattam and Ottam Thullal.
LAKKIDI
Lakkidi, the gateway to Wayanad, is situated 700 m above mean sea level, at the crest of the Thamarasseri Ghat pass. Lofty peaks, gurgling streams and luxuriant forests add magic to the journey up the winding roads ti this hill station.
POOKOT LAKE
This perennial fresh water lake, nestled among wooded hills, is the only one of its kind in Kerala. Boating facilities, a children's park, a handicrafts and spices emporium and a fresh water aquarium are among the tourist facilities available here. The lake is 3 Km south of Vythiri Resorts.
NAGARHOLE WILDLIFE SANCTUARIES
This sanctuary in Karnataka State extends over an area of 634.39 Sq. Km. The park houses diverse species of plant and animal life. It is about 40 Km from Mananthavady
THIRUNELLY TEMPLE
Surrounded by Kambamala. Karimala and Varadiga, the Thirunelly temple is a marvel of temple architecture. The shrine is shielded with 30 granite. The crystal clear waters of the Papanasini river running downhill adds to the enchantment of the place.
GURUVAYOOR
29kms away from Thrissur, this is also one of the most sacred pilgrimage centers in the state. The presiding deity is Lord Krishna. Legend has it that Guru, the preceptor of Gods and Vayu, the God of wind, created the temple.
