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This is a personally printed tourist guide, not meant to be sold in open market. Courtesy SHUBHYATRA.COM & KERALATRAVEL.COM
The beauty of Kerala cannot be just written or explained, it has to be experienced. Fringed with coconut palms that carpet the
land from hills to shores, Kerala, the south-western state of India, is a land of many enchantments. Emerald green backwaters
drench every pockets of this leaf-shaped country. Sun-kissed golden sands sprawled on the pristine Kerala beaches snatch every
emotion of a solitary traveller. Dark, deep forest reserves carrying spicy aroma houses many exotic species in their sleeves. And
above all, it is the magic of Ayurveda, that refreshes you again and again for a more exhilarating journey and you continue to do
so in this God's Own Country
FACT FILE Beach Attractions : Lakes, Lagoons Open Sea, Beaches. To Shop : Sea Shells, Handicraft Items made from Seashells. Getting There
: Nearest Airport - Kochi International Airport - 85 km.
Nearest Rail - Alapuzzha – 5 km. Don't Miss : Meeting the Sailors of Allapuzha and watch them catch Fish. Activities : Sunbath on Beaches,
Boat Cruise, Fishing, Backwater Destination Cruise. Must Watch : Nehru Trophy Boat Race. Where to Eat : Hotel Green Corner, Hotel
Aaryas, Gujarathi Street, Kalpakavadi Inn. Staying Options : Marari Beach Resort, Alleppey Beach Resort, Alleppey Prince Hotel, Marari Beach
Home, Anamika The Villa, GowriHeritage Home.
FACT FILE Novelty Factor : One of the cleanest and safest beaches in the country, Kovalam is just 16 km away from the capital city of
Kerala. Beach Attractions : Open Sea, Beaches, Vast Stretch of Land, Vizhinjam Village. Around Kovalam : Poovar – 18 km, 15 kms from
Mahabalipuram, 36 kms from Mahabalipuram. To Shop : Sea Shells, Handicraft Items made from Seashells, Paintings, Carpets, Metal Work,
Woodwork Articles. Getting There : Nearest Airport - Trivendrum International Airport, Thiruvananthapuram – 16 km.
Rail – Nearest Station – Trivendrum Central – 13 km.
Road – Kovalam is off the N-H-47 Bypass. Don't Miss : Stay in the Ashrams and Experiencing Ayurvedic Treatments. Inside Tip : While
Staying in the Ashrams do abide by the rules and regulations of the Ashram. Activities : Ideal for Kayaking, Swimming, Surfing and Skiing.
Must Watch : The Palm Trees and Ebullient Waves of the Arabian Sea. Where to Eat : Sea Face Dosa Camp, Lonely Planet, Garcia, Swiss Cafe,
German Bakery. Staying Options : Le Meridien, Raja Hotel, Hotel Samundra, Uday Samundra Leisurew Beach, Hotel Sea Face, Kadaloram
Beach Resort, The Ttravancore Heritage, Somatheeram Ayurvedic Beach Resort.
As you will walk through the sinewy streets of the town towards the
beach, you will simply wonder about the eternal sonance of the
ebullient sea, always within your earshot but perpetually
imperceptible to the eye. You can see stamps of silver sands,
carelessly scattered on the grounds, ratifying a sea nearby, but
where? And now when you are so close to the parapet, a visit to the
first European fort built on Indian soil is a fine idea, isn't it? Perched
regally on petrified time, Fort Kochi is not just a quaint township or
a traveller's delight. It is a perfect poetry of folklore handed down
the ages, a melting pot of culture that has emerged from three
invasions, and a lifestyle that prides itself on its natural ardour to
savour life, much the same way you would do about your holiday
vacation in Kerala. The Portuguese made it in 1530, the Dutch
played with it from 1663 and ultimately the British East India Company wrested the grand creation away in 1795. Housing the first
European township and anchored on one of the finest natural harbours of the State, Fort Kochi over the chapters of history
played the fascinating roles of a major military base, shipbuilding centre, a cultural hub, and a centre for Christianity, all in one.
Want to enjoy beach vacations in Kerala? Cochin beach holidays on Kerala beaches along with the desire to see the famous
attractions can anly be basked on Fort Kochi in Kerala.
FACT FILE Fascinations : The Beach of Kochiites, Sun Kissed Sands, being with Portugal, Judiasm Culture. Speciality : The architectural style
of the buildings and lay-out of the Town mark out Fort Cochin from other Cities and Towns of Kerala.. Don't Miss : Plan a holiday to Fort
Kochi Beach to experience building Sand Castles on the Beach. Inside Tip : Listen to the uncanny Folklores of Local Fishermen and seek the
help of tour guides to translate the language for you. Activities : Build Sandcastles, Sunbath on Beaches, Boat Cruise, Fishing. Must Watch :
The Fort Kochi. Other Attractions : St. Francis Church, Santa Cruz Church, Beautiful paintings in Roman Catholic Church. Staying Options :
Fort Cochin Houseboat, Heritage Hotels, Bolgatty Palace.
FACT FILE Around Varkala : Thiruvananthapuram – 54 km, Kollam – 37 km. Best Time to Visit : September to May. Significance of Beach :
A 2000 Year Old Shrine of Lord Vishnu, the Janardana Swamy Temple. Getting There : Nearest Airport - Thiruvananthapuram International
Airport - 46 km from Varkala is nearest International Airport.
Rail – Nearest Station – Varkala.
Road – Just 11 km off N – H - 47, which runs from Salem to Kanyakumari. Don't Miss : The mineral springs in Varkala as they are known to
have curative properties. Inside Tip : The water of the beach is known to be holy. So, take a dip in-order to purge the body and soul of all
impurities. Activities : Water Skiing, Back Water Cruises, Water Scooters, Motor Boats, Sunbath on Beaches. Special Attractions : Watch
special Kathakali dance performed in the beaches of Varkala by renowned artists. Staying Options : Taj Garden Retreat, Green Palace Hotel,
Palm Beach Resort, Panchavadi Beach Resort.
If you are bored with the mundane attitude of life and even more,
can't find a place to relax, then no doubt Beypore beach is the right
holiday destination for you. For centuries, the coastal strip of Beypore
has been a famous ship-building centre. Its 'uru', the country craft
built by traditional shipbuilders, locally known as 'khalasis', still has a
swelling market and continues to pull Middle Eastern buyers from
across the Arabian Sea. Beside being an economic focal point, Beypore
is also
famous as
a maritime
If you have taken up a bech tour in Kerala, then Bypore beach is the
hottest place. Enjoy a backwater cruise to reach the picturesque
Kappad beach, still young to speak of its great historic importance.
Wander around the little stone monument and visit the temple believed to be 800 years old. The ancient relics truly speaks of
the bygone glory of this little patch of land, situated south of Kozhikode. Unspoilt and uncrowded, apparantly, the alluring
backwaters of Kozhikode offers a bewitching experience.
FACT FILE To See : Backwaters, Alleppey Houseboats, Sree Krishna Temple, Ambalapuzha. Most Famous For : Backwaters, Houseboat Stay.
Don't Miss : Snake Boat Race held on Second Saturday of August. Must Experience : Backwaters of Alleppey. Getting Around : Karumadi
Kuttan - 4kms, Thakazhi's Village, St. George Forane Church, Chakkalathukavu Bhagavati Temple, Haripad Subrahmanya Temple, Mannarsala
Nagaraja, Chettikulangara Bhagavathy.
. What to Eat : Pal Payasam (Milk Kheer) Staying Options : Punnamada Backwater Resort, Palmgrove Lake Resort, Lake Palace Resort,
Kovilakam Lakeside Villa.
"Once you have seen Kollam you would no more need your illam
(home)" - Local Proverb
FACT FILE To See : Colonial Relics, Dutch Quilon, Thirumullavaram Beach, Thevaly Palace, Ashtamudi Backwaters, Neendakara. Most
Famous For : Cashew and Marine Industries. Don't Miss : Fishing with Chinese Fishing Nets. Must Experience : Stay in a Houseboat during a
Trip to Ashtamudi Backwaters. Inside Tip : Kollam, is also blessed with backwaters. When you are into the waters always prefer a boat that is
sailed by local sailors as they have better knowledge of backwaters. Where to Eat : Supreme Bakery – Cashew Biscuits, Green Pepper Pickle,
Hotel Sudarsan – Chemmeen (Prawns), Erachi (Beef). Staying Options : Ashtamudi Resort, Hotel Sudarsan, Shantigiri, Ayurveda Centre,
Aquaserene, Sarovarom, Valiyavila, Family Estate.
FACT FILE To See : Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple, St Mary's Knanaya Church – Valiapally, St Mary's Orthodox Church – Cheriapally,
Thazathangadi Juma Masjid, Backwater Escapes. Most Famous For : Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple, St Mary's Church. Don't Miss :
Kottayam Experience is not Complete unless you test the Waters of Vembanad Lake. Must Experience : Shopping for Jeweleries in Kottayam.
To Shop : Kasavukada – Travancore Saris. Allapatt, Alukka's and Bhima Jewellers – Jewelleries. Getting There : Air - Nearest Airport : Cochin
International Airport.
Rail - Kottayam Station connected to New Delhi by Kerala Express, Mumbai by Kanyakumari Express.
Road - An hour's drive from Alleppey on N-H-47. N-H-49 to Thripunithura, S- H-15 to Ettumanur. Inside Tip : While exploring the
backwaters of Kodoor river use the boat Jetty for Backwater Tours. Important Distances : 75 km S of Kochi, 153 km NW of
Thiruvananthapuram. Kollam - 106 km, Alappuzha - 48 km, Bangalore - 616 km. Where to Eat : Karumpumkala – Hot and Spicy, Vyshali
Restaurant – Fried Frog Legs, Anne's Bakery - Wheat Halwa, Best Bakery – Syrian Christian treats. Staying Options : Akkara House, Anjali
Park, Pearl Regency, Paradise Resorts, The Windsor Castle.
KERALA, in the GODS OWN COUNTRY | 11
The Witching Wildlife
India is the land of tigers and one can't expect a return without
seeing the king of the jungle in its natural habitat. Irrefutable pug
marks of this ingenious animals is present everywhere, dotting
the moist grounds of the terrain. But reading the forest, unlike
reading a book, requires all the senses, and much can be said
about the cannibal. Try this. Pick up a handful of mud from the
pugmarks and rub it in your palms. Bring it closer to your nose
and try to smell the fragrance. You will invariably know how the
brute smells! Even if you don't spot a tiger in a single safari,
seeing a herd of elephants at close quarters and a bewildering
variety of birds are more than enough to satiate your appetite for the wild. The Periyar tiger trail comprises of two tour
programmes (1N/2D and 2N/3D) and only medically fit travellers in the 15-65 age group can take part in. Conducted by
poacher-turned-protectors of the area, the memorable itinerary covers around 25-30 km of the greens, depending on the route
chosen. English speaking armed guards accompany the groups, which consist generally of five tourists and five guides.
FACT FILE Major Wildlife Attractions : Elephants, Lion-Tailed Macaques, Tigers, Great Indian Hornbill, Nilgiri Laughing Trush, Ceylon Frog
Moth. Major Safaris : Elephant, Jeep Safari, Boat Safari. Other Attractions : Birdwatching, Sighting Tigers, Jungle Photography, Jungle Tours,
Staying in Bamboo Groves and Huts, Connemara Tea Factory - 15 km from the Sanctuary. Best Time To Visit : September to March. Don't
Miss : Sighting Birds like the Great Indian Hornbill. Getting There : Nearest Airport - Coimbatore - 55 km.
Nearest Railhead - Palakkad – 75 km.
Road - Bus from Palakkad to Mukkali – 80 km. Inside Tip : Do not forget to carry your Cameras, Binoculars, Caps, Goggles whenever you
undertake a Safari in the Sanctuary. Where to Eat : Ashok Bhawan – unniappams, spicy bajjis, Noorjehan Hotel – Biryanis, Pathiris, Motton
Curries, Curry House – Crisp Dosas, Appams. Staying Options : Sri Chakra International, Hotel Indraprastra, Hotel KPM International,
Kanoos East Fort Resort, The Fort Palace Hotel, Rest House – Mukkali.
If you are a bird lover then this is a place which will definitely
satiate your avian appetite. It is really fascinating to walk over
the leaf-carpeted lanes of the forest - a path you can trust on
- and watching numerous alluring creatures in their nests on
the green acme, chirping and taking flight every now and
then. Look at those snow-white egrets, bedecked with delicate
panache, amidst the dancing black and white storks - a natural
chessboard with a single player to enjoy, time. Grey herons,
with their black head plumes, poise as they interact with their
neighbours. it is indeed a memorable experience to see black-
headed ibis, perching high on the uppermost branches and raising their wings to unveil crimson armpits. The cacophony of
painted storks, with their yellow bills and pink tail ends, has to be heard to be believed. In addition, one can also see the native
kingfishers painting the ecosphere in psychedelic colours, experience a walk under rookeries of egrets and lone golden-backed
woodpeckers and even enjoy the twists and turns of the paradise fly-catchers
FACT FILE Major Wildlife Attractions : Waterfowl, Cuckoo, Owls, Egrets, Herons Water Ducks, Parrots, Teal, Larks, Flycatchers, Wood
Beetle, Mangrove Forests, Green Paddy Fields and Coconut Groves. What to Do : Bird Watching, Exploring the Forest on Foot, Feeding the
Birds of the Forest. Other Attractions : Houseboat and Motorboat Cruise, Tasting Delicious Kottanad Cuisine. Best Time To Visit : November
to February. Don't Miss : To see the migratory Siberian Cranes. Getting Around : Kottayam, Alleppey, Cradomom Hills, Boat Cruises,
Madurai, Kochi, Kottayam, Ernakulam, Munnar. Getting There : Nearest Airport - Kochi Airport Nedumbassery -106 km.
Nearest Rail - Kottayam Junction – 15 km.
Road - 15 km from Kottayam. S-H-1 links Kumarakom to Cochin and Trivendrum. Inside Tip : Take a Boat Cruise on the Emerald Green
Backwaters of the Vembanad Lake. Important Distances : Kottayam – 15 km, Nedumbassery - 106 km , Periyar – 185 km. Where to Eat :
Vembanad Seaood Bar, Restaurants - Ettukettu, Thattukada, Tharavadu, Fort Kochi, Pearlspot. Staying Options : Kumarakom Lake Resort,
Coconut Lagoon, Taj Garden Retreat, Backwater Ripples, Illikkalam Lake Resort, Golden Waters..
FACT FILE Major Wildlife Attractions : Egrets, Herons, Darters, Drongoes, Teals and Hundreds of Other Birds. Major Safaris : Safaris in
Wildlife Sanctuary, Temple Visit, Tour of Spice Gardens. Other Attractions : Malankara Dam, Kurasha Para, Thomankuttu Water Falls,
Annamalai Temple, KariKodu Bhagawathy, Sri Krishnaswamy Temple. Best Time To Visit : September to October. Don't Miss : The view from
the National Park that is situated 7000 ft above sea level is absolutely breathtaking. To Shop : East Fort Compound – Mundus, Gold
Jewellery, Brass Lamps, Kairali Handicrafts near Statue Junction – Straw Bags, Mats. Inside Tip : Try to record the melody of birds using your
Binoculars. Important Distances : Kochi – 65 km, Ernakulam – 57 km, Thekkady - 60 km, Munnar - 50 km, Thodupuzha - 60 km,
Neriyamangalam - 22 km, Vellathooval - 33 km. Where to Eat : Gopuram, Hotel Aarathi, Hotel Woodlands, Pappen's Restaurant, Maurya
Monarch. Staying Options : River Banks, Greenberg Resort, Pimenta, Maurya Monarch, Hotel Stoneage.
The best way to know the jungle more closely is to take a jeep
safari, in the early hours or in the evening just before sunset. It is
amazing to see dainty deer strolling gingerly through the bushes
or caring gaur licking the forehead of their loved ones. In the
course of a day's drive, one can expect to see herds of spotted deer,
jackals, wild pigs in significant number, may be a leopard or the
much celebrated great Indian king cobra. As darkness engulfs the
forests and moon emerges from behind the tall bamboos, one can
expect to see dark shapes looming out of the thick curtain of the
night. As you hear some infuriating stories related to a tiger seen
'yesterday' or 'last week' or 'a couple of days ago', you think if you
have that traveller's luck and out of that sense of self-pity, you see
a pair of glowing bulbs amidst the creepers. Petrifying, isn't it? A
single visit to the interiors of Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is enough to give you a lifetime experience to boast of. In the
morning, hire a friendly guide and set out to explore the forest on foot. Enjoy the grand vista of the fluttering avians perched on
tree tops. Look at the crested serpent eagle on its perch making a marvellous picture of sovereignty and refinement. Gaze at those
alluring red-wattled lapwings, busy in practicing a variety of aerial acrobatics, or the tiger butterflies flying just above your head,
all for your fun.
FACT FILE Major Wildlife Attractions : Elephant , Bison, Spotted Deer, Tiger, Leopard, Bear and Wild Boar. What to Do : Visit to the world-
famous Edakkal Caves, Enjoy staying in ethnic styles in bamboo huts and tree houses. Best Time To Visit : June to October. Don't Miss :
Paddle on the traditional treadmills that are used to irrigate the paddy fields in Wayanad. Inside Tip : Learn about the Traditional Lifestyle of
the Tribes residing in the Region. Important Distances : Calicut -110 km, Kasargod- 216 km, Trivandrum- 502 km and Cochin- 286 km.
Where to Eat : Hotel Pankaj and Haritagiri – for decent Malabar Food, Green Gates, New Form Restaurant – Malabar-style Biryani, Kuruva
Restaurant – Traditional Malabar Food, plus Muglai, Tandoori and Chinese Dishes, Rain County – Authentic Keralite Cuisine. Staying
Options : Rain Country Resort, Vythiri Resort, Jungle Park Resorts, Wynberg Resorts, Greeshman Resorts, Steam Valley Cottages, Green
Gates, Hotel Haritagiri, The Woodlands , Royal Palm Holiday Home.
As you drive up the road with its hairpin curves of the Kundali
Hills to Mukkali, you will experience a swift shift in the mood
of the atmosphere. As you will reach Mukkali, the boisterous
winds will request you to slow down, and let your eyes roll
over the picturesque terrain, like a hungry sparrow hunting
over tiny grains of wheat. Silent Valley, eulogized as a
scientist's dream and a researcher's paradise, is situated at
about 50 km north-west of Mannarkkad. Ecologists describe
this area as the sole surviving pad of evergreen rain forests,
that were once a signature of the Sahya Ranges.
Climb the giant steel watchtower (60 mt) of the Silent Valley
National Park, and look at the 'Kunthipuzha' river - popularly
known as Kunthi - flowing like a diaphanous silver ribbon
down the Western Ghats. The geographical isolation of the plateau, cut off on all sides with steep ridges and escarpments, has
kept this pad with 'the richest expression of life on Earth' unsullied by man until the middle of 19th century. This fine sense of
seclusion has also allowed the valley to endure as an ecological paradise, espousing diverse species of flora and fauna over 50
million years, that is said to be the evolutionary age of the Silent Valley. A testimony to the above belief was discovered in the
year 2003, when a new frog genus, supposed to be of the Jurassic era, was found in the woods.
FACT FILE Major Wildlife Attractions : Elephants, Lion-Tailed Macaques, Tigers, Great Indian Hornbill, Nilgiri Laughing Trush, Ceylon Frog
Moth. Major Safaris : Elephant, Jeep Safari. Other Attractions : Birdwatching, Photography of beautiful Butterflies. Best Time To Visit :
September to March. Don't Miss : Sighting Birds like the Great Indian Hornbill. Getting There : Nearest Airport – Coimbatore - 55 km.
Nearest Railhead – Palakkad – 75 km.
Inside Tip : Do not forget to carry your Cameras whenever you undertake a Safari in the Sanctuary. Important Distances : 40 km NW of
Mannarkkad, Coimbatore – 55 km, Palakkad – 65 km, Mukkali – 23 km. Where to Eat : Ashok Bhawan – Unniappams, Spicy Bajjis,
Noorjehan Hotel – Biryanis, Pathiris, Motton Curries, Curry House – Crisp Dosas, Appams. Staying Options : Sri Chakra International, Hotel
Indraprastra, Hotel KPM International, Kanoos East Fort Resort, The Fort Palace Hotel, Rest House – Mukkali.
Interestingly, on the day of 'Thiruvabharanam' (journey to the sacred site), every year two kites appear in the sky above the
Pandalam Palace (the starting point) and are belived to be auspicious for the journey. Starting the journey on January 14th, the
'Thiruvabharanam' procession takes two days to reach the Sabarimala temple. You can plan your visit so as to coincide with this
day that marks the appearance of a celestial light, called 'Makarajyothi'. Rationalists correlate the phenomenon to a sleight of
hand by the Kerala Forest Department, but devotees believe the lights are 'aartis' performed by 'devas' and 'rishis' residing in
heaven.
The Jewish Synagogue at Mattancherry in Kerala, built in 1568 AD, is said to be the oldest synagogue present in the common
wealth countries. The exquisite construction still houses the scrolls of the original Old Testament and the copper plates, which
recorded the grants of privilege, bequeathed by the Kochi rulers. The Jewish synagogues of Kerala have a great sense of religious
tolerence in them.
Unfortunately, the synagogue was partially destroyed during the wars of 1662 AD, but was later rebuilt by the Dutch. As time
darted by the windows of mind, more segments were added.
Don’t forget to see the 18th century clock tower, standing
within the premises like a solitary sentinal, eager to move
but coalesced with the responsibility to see the far. Walk
along the corridors and you will be amazed to see the , the
exquisite hand painted blue Chinese tiles, that provide an
impressive sight. Interestingly, none of the two hundred
year old tile resembles one another. This famous synagogue
in Kerala India, also houses many finely wrought gold and
silver crowns gifted by the various patrons of the state.
Every year for centuries, thousands of pilgrims have made their way
up the sacred slopes of the Sabari Hills to the abode of Ayyappa in
Pathanamthitta. But beyond its religious reputation, Pathanamthitta
also has something that very few people know. It is the only place on
earth where metal-mirrors are still painstakingly handcrafted and
where a heritage village practises the 'vaastu shastra' (ancient Indian
occult way of home designing) in its purest form. It is the place that affords Asia's largest Christian gathering, upon a river bed,
that dry up every February to stage the venue. Pathanamthitta is surely a place which needs to be discovered, explored and
known. One cannot just believe what is so special about this trivial town of Kerala. For one, it is home to the only temple in
Kerala where Kathakali is performed as an offering to God. Then there is a pillar made of a single block of granite, dating back to
57 BC...a church that looks like a temple..the 'Mannara Kinnam', a rust resistant hour glass made of a special alloy. Surely the list
is endless, but you can make a trip to Pathanamthitta to tick, atleast, beside a few points.
Surely you cannot bypass the event which commences with the grand offering of 12,000 bunches of 'padatti pazham' (a variety
of yellow bananas) at the 4000-year old Sri Vallabha Temple in Pathanamthitta. The ceremony is also marked with a grand
elephant parade along with an awe-inspiring Kathakali Dance performance, which is more of like a religious offering than a form
of art.
Visit the sweet stalls of Pathanamthitta that has everything to make your mouth water - from heavenly halwas, juicy jalebis to
creamy milk sweets. Relish them as they melt in your mouth.
Devotees can take a bath and purify themselves at the temple pond (Rudratheertham), situated on the northern side of the
premises and thereafter can enter the temple preferably in wet clothes. Remember not to enter the temple in shirt, banyan,
pyjama, lungi, chequered clothes, footwear etc. There are facilities to keep them outside the temple. One can also get miniature
human figures, replicas of hands, legs, eyes, abnormal body eruptions etc. made of gold and silver from the temple office near the
Kodimaram (Flag-staff). Offer prayers to heal or refresh yourself as your need may be.
The 23-feet high 'deepstambham' or the pilar of lamps when illuminated in the evening casts a magical spell on the eyes of
beholder. Also remember to see the beautiful murals embellishing the walls of the sanctum, bringing the life of Lord Krishna to
life.
In Kerala, 'Marthoma' is a popular Christian denomination, 'Mar' for saint and 'Thoma' for Thomas. It is said that He established
seven and a half churches in Kerala - Kodungallur, Palayur, Paravur, Kokomangalam, Niranam, Chayal, and Kollam. Each of these
churches are unique in its own way. Visit the Malayattoor Church, located 52 kms from Kochi on Malayattoor Hill, is believed to
be one of the ancient catholic shrines built by St. Thomas. The sacred site has footprints and a life-size statue of St. Thomas which
is a must see for every tourist. Plan to visit the church on second Sundays, after the Vernal Equinox (March 21) and you can see
pilgrims climbing the 2000 feet high hill to reach the church, affording a magnificent vista from the sprawling landscape.
Originally named as Santo Antonio and presently owned by the Church of South India (CSI), the church presents a exquisite
facade with multi curved sides; an indeed impressive marvel to behold. The St. Mary's Forance Church. Dedicated to the Holy
Mother, this is a famous church in Kerala, that attracts thousands of pilgrims from every pockets of the country. Visit during
November-January, and you can rejoice the Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel and the Feast of St. Sebastian, held during this
time. Take up Kerala tours to see he famous churches of Kerala.
FACT FILE Surrounded By : Paddy Fields, Hills. Facilities : Room service (24hr),
Foreign Currency Exchange, Secretarial Services, Airport/Bus/Train/Ferry Transfer
(Paid), Hotel Safe, Newspapers / Magazines, Travel Booking/Confirmation,
Doctor/Nurse (Resident), Photo Processing, Driver's Accommodation, Postal/Courier
Service, Sauna/Steamroom/Spa, Library/Reading Room/Area, Car Parking. Holistic
Healing Experience : Yoga and Meditation, Rhythmic Massages, Medicated Baths,
Herbal Diets, Ayurvedic Regimens Based on your Physician's Recommendation. Other
Assurances : Anti Aging, Weight Reduction, Detoxification, Stress Management or
Curing Specific Ailments. Clothes to be Worn : Dhoti, Kurta, Wooden 'Padukas'. Inside
Tip : Whenever you visit Kalari Kovilakam be on a long Vacation so as to utilize the
time in getting yourself healed of all diseases at this Ayurveda Resort. You need to
spend 14, 21 or 28 days to experience Holistic, Traditional Ayurveda. Getting There :
Tourists who are travelling by air, can disembark at Kochi (100 km) or Coimbatore (75 km) and can hire a Taxi to reach Kovilakom.
Being a seaport, many foreigners came to the place and one can clearly see the influence of Chinese, Jews,
Arabs and Europeans in its culture and lifestyles of the natives. It boasts of the oldest church in India, the
famous old-traditioned Chinese fishing nets, 500-year-old Portuguese houses, old tiled houses built in the
Chinese pagoda style, synagogues, a Jewish community whose roots go back to the Diaspora and mosques. The
harbor is still hale and hearty and the main exports of the region are pepper, seafood, rubber and coir.
However, it attracts tourists because of its serene backwaters, beautiful lagoons fringed by swaying coconut
palms and picturesque islands. The older parts of Fort Cochin and Mattanchery look more like a fusion of
medieval Portugal, Holland and an English country village into one and are situated on the tropical Malabar
Coast. Today, Cochin is one of India's largest ports and a major naval base.
While the tourists throng to Vasco da Gama Square, where now-obsolete Chinese fishing nets are still in use,
the stalls surrounding it coin the opportunity by making fresh delicious seafood and tender coconut available
to them. The Portuguese originally built Dutch Palace within the fort. It later passed on to Raja of Kochi
through the hands of Dutch, who placed high value on it and it was here that many coronations of the ruler of
the region took place. Leslie Bungalow from the 19th century belonged to the coffee merchants who traded off
in the name of Pierce Leslie & Co. and enchants one with its beauty that has distinct Portuguese, Dutch and
native influences on it. Typical wood panels and waterfront verandahs make it all the more endearing to the
visitors. The church of Santa Cruz Basilica, the Hill Palace museum, the Jew Town, Museum of Kerala History,
Cherai Beach and St Francis Church, the oldest European church of India are other architectural delights of the
region.
The rabbi will normally give visitors a full account of the synagogue and the history of the Jews in Kerala.
Although this ancient community of Cochin has now dwindled to a few families, strong elements of their
culture and tradition as well as the Hebrew language remain in Jew Town, which is what the area surrounding
the Mattancherry Synagogue has come to be called. The by-lanes that wind around Jew Town offer charming
sights of houses built in Dutch, Portuguese and British styles.
Some of the noted Kathakali centres in Kochi are India Foundation located at Kalathiparambil Road, near the
Ernakulam Junction Railway station where the daily show begins at 6.45 p.m., the Cochin Cultural Centre
situated at Manikath Road, behind Medical Trust Hospital where the daily show begins at 7 pm, Art Kerala
situated at Kannanthodathu lane, Valanjambalam and one may also catch the exotic shows of the dance at
Kerala Kathakali Centre functions at Fort Cochin near the Chinese Fishing Nets.
These three elephants have been specially trained for safari and are
provided with saddles that have been carefully designed to make the riding comfortable. Elders as well as kids
can enjoy riding them without any discomfort. The regal experience is certainly one, which nobody would like
to miss. A five-minute country boat ride across the Periyar can take one to the famous Malayattoor Church.
There is also a mini zoo at Kodanad sheltering wild animals which have become unfit for survival in the forest.
Apart from these, it is considered a 'green lung' of Ernakularn City, which is polluted by many industries and
motor vehicles. A timber yard was located in the area in the yester years, exporting timber to various countries.
At present, no such activity is being carried out. The guesthouse was renovated in the year 1986 and regular
staff was appointed to protect the birds. Exotic species like Eucalyptus and teak was planted in the area in
previous years. Forty-one species of birds were recorded in Mangalavanam mangroves representing 25 families.
The most common bird species found at Mangalavanarn were Little Cormorant and Black-crowned Night
Heron. Highest species richness of birds was found in the months of May and July. House Crow is however the
villain here, the main predator of the eggs and nestlings of other bird species.
The change of name of the patron saint was presumably during the time of to the Anglicans. On the northern
side can be seen Portuguese gravestones. The Dutch gravestones are on the southern wall. The Vasco da Gama
stone is on the ground at the southern side. The Church became a protected monument in April 1923 under
the Protected Monuments Act of 1904. The Cenotaph in memory of the residents of Cochin who fell in the
First Great War was erected in 1920.
Much of the forest has now been converted to agricultural and plantation areas, but the surviving areas
certainly give glimpses of the rich bird diversity of the once widespread lowland forests of Kerala. A trip
through this sanctuary would certainly be a bonanza for any birder with its over 270 species in a relatively
small area of 25 sq km area. One should se the rare Mottled Wood Owl, Spot-bellied Eagle Owl, Malayan
Night Heron, Sri Lanka Frogmouth, Rusty-tailed Flycatcher, Grey-headed Bulbul and the Nilgiri Wood
Pigeon.
The erstwhile guest room or the Durbar Hall of Kochi Rajas is a sprawling, traditional Kerala style building. The
museum was once a place to greet the guests of the royalty and a venue for the official ceremonies and
meetings organized by the royal family. Now, under the patronage of State Archaeological Department, it has
been aptly named after Rama Varma Parikshith Thampuran, the Family's last ruler.
Willington Island
Named after the former Viceroy of India, lord Willington, Willington Island is connected to the mainland
Ernakulam by road-cum-railway Venduruthy Bridge. An artificial lake that was made by the dumping of the
materials that were dug out while Cochin Port was being deepened. Willington Island today plays an important
role in the city of Kochi and houses some of the district's best hotels, commercial and industrial offices.
Apart from these, it is here that the airport is positioned along with the shipbuilding yard, wharf, the Southern
Naval Command Head Quarters and the customs house. Cochin Chamber of Commerce and Industries has
been strategically placed here, as is the Government of India Tourist Information Office in the vicinity of the
airport. This island is a hub of activity with a number of offices, branches of national and international banks,
travel agencies and souvenir shops warehouses and one cannot possibly miss visiting the place while being in
the city of Kochi, if just for some necessity.
Attachamayam
Celebrated to commemorate the legendary victory of the Raja of Kochi, the festival of Attachamayam is held
on the eighth day of the Malayalam month of Chingam, which usually falls in August or September at the
historical town of Tripunithura, near Kochi. A grand procession is taken out on this occasion, which is full of
pomp and show, colors abound the pageantry, replete with caparisoned elephants, varieties of folk art forms,
floats and other musical ensemble.
Some believe that this spectacular procession is to mark the beginning of the Onam Festival, the festival of
peace and equity. However, ther are others who believe that the Maharaja of Kochi took the Athachamayam
march from Tripunithura, once capital of the Cochin estate to the Vamana temple of Thrikkakara as a military
adventure or at least to show off his royal splendor and glory. With the end of the era of kings and monarchs,
the tradition had died out, only to be revived again in the 1960's. Also known as Athagosham, this weeklong
festival now attracts many tourists from India and abroad to Tripunithuta with its highlights being ancient and
modern art forms such as folk dances, competitions and other entertainment programs.
Onam
The Harvest Festival of Kerala, is one of the most popular one too. The
harvest festival is the most popular festival of Kerala. The legend behind
the festival goes back to the golden reign of the great, kind and mighty
demon king Mahabali. This demon won over the kingdom of gods in war
and Vishnu came to their aid. Lord Vishnu then disguised himself as a
small Brahmin boy, Vamanan, and asked for three steps of land. The wish
was granted and Vamanan then assumed the huge size and covered the
KERALA, in the GODS OWN COUNTRY | 34
whole land with his two steps and then asked the King for the place where he could put his third step.
The king to honor his word offered his head as the third step and Vamanan pushed Mahabali into the abyss.
However, he granted him a wish that he could he could visit his kingdom and people on a particular day once a
year, the day which usually falls in the ten-day festivity of this harvest season. A floral carpet called
"Athappookkalam" in front of houses, Carnivals, Boat Races, Dance, Music and Feast consisting of a the
traditional sweet dish of Kerala 'Payasam' on plantain leaf characterize Onam.
Cochin Carnival
Held annually in the last week of the year in Fort Kochi, this merry making feast is observed to welcome the
New Year. Dating back to the times of Portuguese during the colonial days, it has evolved with time as a party
time for the young hearts with its unique games, competitions and illumination. However, the highlight of the
Carnival remains the huge procession on the New Year Day, complete with a caparisoned elephant leading it,
drums and music, spectacular floats, myriad folk art forms, Panchavadyam and even North Indian dances.
Starting since Solidarity Day on December 22, it is a ten-day long festival and is usually ended by a flag-off in
dignified silence to pay tribute to the brave martyrs who died while fighting for their motherland. It was
revived in 1984, and has now gained immense popularity and all the activities organized during the Carnival are
centred around its five main slogans, namely, Participation, Peace, Progress, Adventure and Environment.
Besides the adventure sports like Beach Bike Race and Sea Swimming, there are Beach Football, Beach
Volleyball, Shuttle Badminton and Ball Badminton Tournaments are organized during the course of the
festival.
The rolling backwaters of Kochi are very invitiong and thus a grand gala is held here in the last week of
December as a final touch to its spectacular Tourism Fair. Cheering crowds, zest and festivity abound when the
sixteen majestic snake boats race neck to neck in gaiety, each vying for the coveted trophy of the race, which
was instituted in memory of Indira Gandhi, the late Prime Minister of India.
Jewish Festivals
It is believed that the Jews of Kerala migrated here in the 1st after the second temple of Jerusalem was
destroyed in 72 AD. The Jewish community settled mainly in and around Mattancherry, Kochi and brought
with them the Jewish customs and festivals. The Passover Festival is celebrated annually to commemorate the
liberation of Jews from Egyptian slavery followed by the Pentecost Festival and the feast of the Tabernacles.
Then, there are their New Year celebration in September or October and Hanukkah, the 'festival of lights' too.
Passover or Pesach festival is celebrated by the Jews in March or April as possibly sprung up as a Spring festival
Malayatoor Perunal
A feast is held at the famous Catholic Church at Malayatoor on the Sunday
after Easter to commemorate the visit of the great apostle, St. Thomas.
About 52 km from Kochi, atop the hill, the church is dedicated to him and
it is believed that he came to India in the first century A.D and visited
Malayattoor twice. Pilgrims of all faiths visit the place chanting the name of
the Apostle.
The church is set about 2000 feet high and the grand feast that is organized
on this day as a part of the celebration is called the 'Perunnal'. This feast is
usually organized in March or April. One can safelt say that the name of the
festival is a combination of the name of the place, where it is held and the
word 'feast' itself in the native language.
Vasco House:
Believed to have been the residence of Vasco da Gama, this is one of the oldest Portuguese residences in Fort Kochi. Built in the
early sixteenth century, Vasco House sports the typical European glass paned windows and balcony cum verandahs characteristic
of the times.
VOC Gate:
The large wooden gate facing the Parade Ground, with the monogram (VOC) of the once mighty Dutch East India Company
carved on it, was built in 1740.
Bolghatty Island:
This island is famous for its palace of the same name. The Bolghatty Palace was built in 1744 by the Dutch and later taken over by
the British. Today it is a hotel run by the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation, with a small golf course and special
honeymoon cottages.
Willingdon Island:
Named after Lord Willingdon, a former British Viceroy of India, this man-made island is surrounded by beautiful backwaters. The
island is the site of the city's best hotels and trading centres, the Port Trust and the headquarters of the southern naval command.
The Hill Palace Museum, Thripunithura (Open 0900 -1230 hrs; 1400 - 1630 hrs. Closed on
Mondays):
10 km from Kochi, Hill Palace, the official residence of the erstwhile Kochi royal family, was built in 1865. The palace complex
consists of 49 buildings in the traditional architectural style of Kerala and is surrounded by 52 acres of terraced land with a deer
park and facilities for horse riding.
Vamanamoorthy Temple:
Inscriptions from the 10th to the 13th century are found in this temple in Thrikakkara, near Ernakulam.
Santhanagopala-Krishnaswamy Temple:
The original foundation of this temple was laid in 947 AD according to the inscriptions found here.