View Real Village Life with Backwaters of Kerala

The enchanting Kerala backwaters win the heart of every traveller, visiting the state. These wonderful waterways are the highlights of Kerala tourism. Tourists especially throng God's own country for a houseboat cruise along the backwaters. Kochi, Alppuzha, Kottayam, Kumarakom and Kasaragod are some of the famous backwater destinations in the state.

The backwaters of Kerala represent a world of serenity. The coastal regions of the state speak volume about their network of waterways. This interconnected body of waterways forms the important attractions of the state. Over 900 km of the backwaters are navigable and have been served as a medium of transportation. Cruise on these waterways on a traditional houseboat to enjoy the scenic charm of Kerala backwaters.

Alappuzha- Venice of East

Alappuzha is an enchanting town with its gorgeous lakes, lagoons and rivers. Known as the 'Venice of the East', the town is interlaced with a network of canals. It is also popular for its houseboats, boat races, beaches and Coir industry. While on Alappuzha tour, visitors can also spot diverse animals and birds. Alappuzha is a noticeable backwater destination in the state.

Kasaragod- The Most Panoramic Backwater Stretch

Kasaragod backwaters offer you a wonderful holiday experience. The alluring sunset on a Chandragiri cruise is out-of-this-world experience. Tourists can embark on a ride on the Kettuvallam, the traditional houseboats. Travellers can also enjoy excellent facilities at the houseboats. Enveloped by Western Ghats on its east and north, Kasaragod offers you the exciting backwaters tour on the Chandragiri River and Valiyaparamba.

Kottayam- The land of Letters, Latex and Lakes

It is another gorgeous Kerala backwater destination that offers you a heavenly experience. The famous Vembanad Lake adds popularity to this well-known backwater. Tourists can also witness the historic churches and ancient temple of Kottayam on their Kerala backwater trip. Stunning backwater stretches, green paddy fields and endless rubber plantations add excitement to your Kottayam tour.

Kumarakom- A Cluster of Islands

Lying 15 km away from Kottayam, the backwaters of Kumarakom is an enchanting destination in the state. It houses a large bird sanctuary which is known as birdwatchers' paradise. This popular backwater destination also offers tourists many leisure options. The fresh cool air and an ambience of placidness make Kumarakom a refreshing holiday experience. Tourists can avail facilities like boating and fishing.

Kuttanad- Rice Bowl of Kerala

The destination is a backwater paradise and serves as an important destination for backwater cruise. The scenic waterways, streams, lakes and waterways enable it to float in the gorgeous houseboat. If you wish to enjoy the scenic charm of countryside of the state, then go on a Kerala houseboat tour.

Kochi- Queen of the Arabian Sea

It is the most preferred destination on your Kerala backwater tour. Hoards of tourists visit this pristine backwater site. In Kochi, the backwaters serve as the finest of natural water harbour sites in the country. Kochi backwaters is among the famous port cities in the sub continent region of India.

With their indelible charm, backwaters of Kerala represent the state tourism. These enchanting waterways form an important part of Kerala attractions.

Unfold the finest Vistas of Nature with Kerala Tourism

The blissful land of Kerala adorns the south-western corner of India with its existence. It enjoys unique geographical features that have made it counted among the most popular tourist destinations in Asia. Aptly referred to as “God's own country”, Kerala was also chosen by the National Geographic Traveller as one of the top 50 destinations of a lifetime.

Kerala tourism enchants visitors with its equable climate, rare wildlife, tranquil beaches, serene hill stations and the vast stretches of backwaters.

Kerala Backwaters

If you wish to enjoy the bliss of tranquillity, then head to Kerala backwaters. Tourists can experience a houseboat trip along the enchanting backwaters of Kerala. On board, travellers get a chance to enjoy freshly cooked South Indian food and chilled beer. You can consider spending night out amidst the lake as well.

·         Cochin

·         Alleppey

·         Kollam   

·         Kumarakom

Beaches

Hoard of tourists throng Kerala as it houses the most diverse variety of beaches. Sprawled along the 900 km Arabian Sea Coastline, Kerala beaches enchant everyone visiting the state. The shorelines of Kerala have their own features including spas, water sports and seafood that add charm to your Kerala holidays. With its long shoreline, Kerala houses the most enchanting beaches, natural harbours, coconut groves and lagoons.

·         Kovalam

·         Alappuzha

·         Kappad

·         Varkala

Wildlife Sanctuaries

Wildlife enthusiasts can embark on a Kerala wildlife tour to explore the rare wildlife of the estate. The land is known for its rich variety of flora and fauna. It also serves as a home to innumerable species of rare wildlife. Besides enchanting green and rain forests, tourists can also watch elephants, leopards, tigers, Nilgiri Tahr, gaurs, deer, lion-tailed macaque, civet cats, monkeys and squirrels.

·         Periyar National Park

·         Idukki Wildlife Reserve

·         Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary

·         Thattekad Bird Sanctuary

Hill Stations

The rugged Western Ghats bestow Kerala a plethora of gorgeous hill stations. Tourists can also view the rich plantations of tea, rubber, coffee, pepper and aromatic cinnamons. Hill stations in Kerala are the ideal places to sit and relax amidst the serene atmosphere.

·         Munnar

·         Wayanad

·         Ponmudi

·         Thekkady

Ayurveda

Kerala is proud to be the land of Ayurveda. This oldest healthcare system can be best experienced in the state. Kerala has many Ayurveda resorts, offering a choice of therapies, massages and treatments, based on Ayurveda. The climate of Kerala has also enhanced to opportunities to undergo Ayurveda therapies with its wealth of herbs, used in Ayurveda. Being the state that has practised Ayurveda with complete dedication, Kerala has become a preferred land to enjoy the bliss of Ayurveda.

Sheltering a number of enchanting attractions, Kerala tourism beckons you to enjoy refreshing holidays. Enjoy staying at Kerala houseboats to have an experience like you never had before.

Cozy Comfort of Nature with Kerala Hill Stations

Presenting another feature of the Greenland, Kerala Hill Stations are endowed with unspoiled natural beauty. The rolling paths, fresh air and cool ambience make these hill stations popular among tourists. Enjoy a relaxing vacation in the mountainous retreats of the state.

Kerala has a long network of lush green hill stations that serve as home to exotic wildlife. Visiting these hill resorts in Kerala brings you the most wonderful experience of nature with all its splendour. These are the most popular Kerala attractions that beckon tourists for a refreshing experience.

The major Hill stations in Kerala are:

Munnar

Munnar hills is located in the assemblage of three mountain streams - Mudrapuzha, Kundala & Nallathanni. Lying 1600 m above sea level, this hill station in Kerala used to be the summer resort of the erstwhile British rulers. Far-stretched tea plantations, zigzag lanes and picturesque towns make it a perfect holiday resort in Kerala.

Wayanad

This gorgeous hill station of Kerala is also affectionately dubbed as the 'Green Paradise' that lying in between the mountains of the Western Ghats. The hill resort positions itself at a distance of 76 km from Kozhikode. Wayanad is among the few regions in the state that has been able to retain its immaculate charm. The sprawling spice plantations, dense forests and rich cultural traditions further enhance the appeal of the hill station.

Devikulam

This small hill station attracts tourists with its scenic grandeur on their Kerala hill station tour. With its velvet lawns, cool invigorating air and gushing waterfalls, it is serving as among the popular tourist destinations in the state. Besides gorgeous scenery, the hill station also enables tourists to enjoy hill climbing, nature trekking and mountaineering.

Idukki

An important part of all Kerala hill stations tour packages, Idukki is among the most nature opulent areas of the state. The wooded valleys and the high ranges are encircled by three main rivers- Thalayar, Periyar and Thodupuzhayar. The River Pamba has also found its origin here. Idukki also offers various tourist attractions like spice plantations, mountain treks, wildlife sanctuaries and elephant rides. It provides shelter to a large population of tribals.

Vythiri

If you wish to enjoy an escape in a serene hill station, Vythiri is the place for you. Counted among the most pristine Kerala hill stations, it offers you to experience the untouched nature with all its freshness. Tucked away among dense rainforests, the beauty of the destination is rather unknown to the world.

Ponmudi

Lying about 61 km from Thiruvananthapuram city, Ponmudi is a fascinating hill station of Kerala tourism. It is located at an elevation of 915 m above sea level. With its narrow winding pathways and lush green environs, it has been enticing tourists for long. This cool hill station offers tourists the mesmerising sights of mountain flowers, small rivulets and exotic butterflies. It also boasts of its tea estates and mist enveloped valleys.

Kerala hill stations serve as the refreshing escapades for tourists from all over the world. Plan a Kerala tour to savour the most wonderful experience of your holidays.

Explore Endless Natural Beauty with Kerala Backwaters

Tourists can explore the captivating backwaters of Kerala with houseboats. These backwaters serve as a world of serenity. The interconnected body of waterways are known as Kerala backwaters. These have been used for centuries by the local people for transportation. Alleppey, Kumarakom, Trivandrum, Kollam and Cochin are the prime backwater destinations in Kerala.

Gifted with abundance of natural vistas, Kerala is a blissful tourist destination in India. With its stunning backwaters, gorgeous greenery, rich culture and spectacular hill stations, Kerala enchants everyone, visiting this land. Renowned for its breathtaking beauty, Kerala backwaters form an important part of Kerala tourism.

Kumarakom Backwaters

It is among the most prominent backwater destinations in Kerala. Tourists can enjoy boating and fishing. The village of Kumarakom serves as a cluster of small islands on the Vembanad Lake, which is a part of the Kuttanad region. It also has a bird sanctuary, serving as the favourite haunt of migratory birds like the Siberian stork. Herons, egrets, darters, cuckoo, waterfowl and wild duck live here. Tourists can also enjoy a boat trip round the islands.

Kollam Backwaters

Earlier known as “Quilon”, Kollam is an enchanting destination on your Kerala backwater tour. Lying 70 km from the capital city, Kollam is a spectacular coastal district. Lush tropical vegetation and the well-known Ashtamudi Lake add popularity to Kollam. The destination also serves as the gateway to Kerala backwaters. Extending from the Ashtamudi Lake, the serene backwaters of Kollam offer an ideal site to experience a luxury houseboat cruising.

Trivandrum Backwaters

Kerala backwater tour takes you to the voluminous backwaters of Trivandrum offer the scenic view of a paradise. The labyrinthine lagoons, canals, lakes and rivers are queued up along the dense tropical verdancy of nature. It also involves the spectacular turn to experience a calm drift through this network of waterways. The backwaters form valuable attractions of Kerala.

Alleppey Backwaters

Being enveloped by waterways and canals, Alleppey is known as the “Venice of the East”. Various Kerala backwater cruises start or end in Alappuzha. The backwaters with flowers, water birds and greenery along their banks form a soothing sight. Alappuzha is also known all over the world as a centre of the Coir industry. Tourists can also see the interesting snake boat races of Alappuzha during Kerala tours.

Cochin Backwaters

Known as the “Queen of the Arabian Sea”, Cochin is the most preferred backwater destination of Kerala. The immaculate backwater site is thronged by large number of travellers. It is among the finest harbour sites in the country. Kochi Backwaters also boast of being the popular port city in the sub continent of India.

Kuttanand Backwaters

These beautiful backwaters are adorably called as the “Rice Bowl of Kerala”. Lush green landscapes and perfect scenic views distinguish the destination. Waterways, streams, lakes and channels add enjoyment to your Kerala houseboat tour.

Ebb Away the Stress with Kerala Ayurveda Tour

Ayurveda Treatment in Kerala

Kerala Ayurveda is an excellent opportunity to regain your energy and rejuvenate your tired senses. Being the oldest system of medicine in the world, Ayurveda has proved its effective results on various diseases. There are many Ayurveda Resorts in Kerala where you can undergo a refreshing experience.

Ayurveda is an ancient therapy that guarantees holistic wellness. The history of this old science dates back to the Vedic Ages. It works on the overall wellness of people. The natural herbs and oils used in the therapy are of medicinal importance as described in the Vedic literature. It is the oldest healthcare system in the world. This unique branch of medicine depends on the analysis of the body's humours, Vatta, Pitta and Kapha to gain the right balance.

Ayurveda in Kerala

Kerala Ayurveda has gained worldwide fame due to its effective results. Kerala's equitable climate is perfect for various curative Ayurveda packages. The state is widely using this curing method for an effective way of treating diseases like stress and chronic fatigue syndrome.

How Ayurveda Works?

This curing remedy works on eliminating toxic elements from the body. The body system gets cleansed when the noxious elements are eliminated from the body. It rejuvenates the body, mind and soul. Three major treatises in Ayurveda are Charaka Samhitha, Ashtanga Samgraha and Sushruta Samhita. These treatises narrate us that every individual has a different constitution.

Every system has an energy, which is related to it and there has to be harmony between them. When we fall ill, the balance gets affected. The aim of this age-old science is to establish again this harmony to retain good health.

Ayurvedic Treatments in Kerala

At various Kerala Ayurveda centres, you can undergo a range of traditional therapies. These treatments are used for curing ailments and improve health as well. Oil and herbal ingredients are used for the better results. Some of the popular Kerala Ayurveda therapies include Abhyanga, Dhara, Nasyam, Elakizhi, Udvarthanam and Pizhichil.

Kerala Ayurveda Centres

Kerala boasts of a number of Ayurveda treatment centres, offering a variety of packages. These include beauty massages, disease curing and rejuvenation programmes. If you are looking for best Ayurveda treatments in India, then there is no better place than Kerala.

From June to September, which is the rainy season is the perfect time for treatments as the atmosphere remains cool and dust free. During this time, the body's pores open and become receptive to herbal oils and therapy. Various Ayurvedic Resort in Kerala have become the prominent Kerala attractions.

The places offering the best Ayurveda packages in Kerala include:

• Somatheeram Ayurveda Resort near Kovalam
• Kottakkal Arya Vaidya Shala
• Beach and Lake Ayurveda Resort
• Surya Samudra Spa Niraamaya at Trivandrum
• Keralyeem Ayurvedic resort near Alleppey
• Ayurkshethra at Kumarakom

Kerala Wildlife Sanctuaries for Thrill of a Lifetime

Kerala houses a veritable wealth of exotic flora and fauna. It boasts of a variety of wildlife that has found their habitat at the place. Many wildlife sanctuaries and national parks are the places where you can capture the glimpses of a variety of wildlife. Tourists can embark on a Kerala wildlife tour to enjoy wildlife, safaris and adventure.

Let us explore Kerala wildlife travel guide.

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Sprawled across an area of 777 sq km, it positions itself on the Western Ghats. Declared as a National Park in 1982, the sanctuary is a good place for sightseeing and excursion. Wildlife lovers throng to the place to spot tigers and leopards. With Kerala wildlife travel, you can enjoy watching other animals in their natural habitat. You can spot here sambar, wild pig, elephants, mongoose and Malabar flying squirrels. Besides animals, wildlife enthusiasts can find around 260 species of birds. This includes flycatchers, blue-winged parakeet, Nilgiri wood pigeon and laughing thrushes. There are many fascinating sights like spice plantations, forest waterfalls and nearby pilgrimage centres.

Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary

This famous wildlife destination in Kerala covers an area of 77 sq km. Lying at a distance of 40 km from Thodupuzha, this is a wonderful reservoir, which is formed by the construction of the Idukki arch dam. The forests and green hills surrounding the area offer great opportunities for trekking. Wild population of the sanctuary encompasses elephants, sambar, tiger, wild dogs, jungle cats and wild boar. The avian population includes kingfisher, jungle fowl, myna, woodpecker, laughing thrush, peafowl and black bulbul.

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary

Covering an area of 90 sq km, Chinnar wildlife sanctuary is a perfect place to spot the variety of wildlife. This includes sambar, elephants, spotted deer, Hanuman monkey and peacocks. This wildlife sanctuary in Kerala is home to several plants and animals, which are unique to the thorny vegetation. It is known as the second habitat of the rare giant grizzled squirrel of the country. Marking its richness in avian diversity, the birds count goes on to 225 species.

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary

The sanctuary is a part of Wayanad plateau. It is home to leopards, tigers, elephants and other animals. It is an annex of Bandipur National Park in Kerala at its southern border. Rich in bio-diversity, this wildlife destination is an integral part of the Nilgiri biosphere reserve. Tourists can have a look of the various bird species. This includes babblers, peacock, owl, cuckoos, woodpecker and jungle fowl.

Thattekad Bird Sanctuary

Kerala wildlife tour takes you to Thattekad Bird Sanctuary. It is among the most popular National Parks of the state. Lying in the dense tropical deciduous forests, the sanctuary is home to rare birds including Crimson-Throated Barbet, Shrike, Sunbird, Bee-eater, Black winged Kite and the Night Heron.

Kerala Wildlife Sanctuaries boast of a rich variety of flora and fauna, serving as the prominent attractions for tourists. Embark on a Kerala wildlife tour to enjoy the nature and creatures at their best. 

Article Source:

http://blogs.rediff.com/keralaindiatour/2013/03/06/kerala-wildlife-sanctuaries-for-thrill-of-a-lifetime/

Alleppey Backwaters exhibit the Richness of Nature

Blessed with spectacular beaches, backwaters, hill stations, greenery and wildlife, Kerala is an ideal tourist destination in India. The state overflows with attractions of nature, which add on to its popularity. Tourists visiting Kerala love to embark on Kerala backwater tour to make the most of their holidays. Kochi, Alleppey, Kollam, Kasaragod and Kumarakom are the popular backwater destinations of Kerala.

Alleppey Backwaters

Earlier known as Alleppey, Alappuzha in Kerala is now enveloped by waterways and canals. A small town in Kerala, Alleppey looks spectacular with backwaters, beaches, canals and lakes.Fondly dubbed as the “Venice of the East”, the city beckons tourists to enjoy an exciting backwater tour. There is a lot to explore on your Alleppey tour. The main attraction is Alleppey round trip to Kuttanad, which is perfect for a houseboat cruise. This main backwater area abounds in natural beauty with lush greenery around it. Either side of the river envelops the gentle surfing of the coconut palms.

Various Kerala Backwater cruises start or end in Alappuzha. The backwaters along with water birds and flowers create a spectacular sight. Prime attractions offered by Alappuzha encompass boat races, lush surroundings, golden sand beaches and houseboats. Backwater circuits are very appealing and they fascinate tourists throughout the year.

Take a stroll on the land to see the captivating sights add more fun to your Alleppey backwater tour. Cruising also enables tourists to enjoy the fantastic sights of the coconut palm trees, fishing nets and paddy fields.

Houseboat Experience

Sailing over the bewitching backwaters, houseboats in Alappuzha transport travellers in the world of water. Houseboat trip from Alleppey offers tourists the wonderful chance to view the lush paddy fields in Kuttanad. This is the place where most of the snake boat races and house boat cruises are organized. Boat races serve as among the prominent attractions of Alleppey tours. Tourists can explore the stunning canals that offer fascinating views of paddy fields, palm groves, traditional villages and picturesque landscapes.

Due to its backwater channels, the destination has many sobriquets, denoting its beauty. The plan of sightseeing on the luxurious houseboats fascinates people so much that they wish to experience it again and again. 

The gorgeous town of Alleppey is famous among couples as well as honeymooners. Alleppey houseboats take them to a different world offering romantic ambience, which is perfect for honeymoon holidays. Besides day cruising, there are several night houseboat cruises available in Alappuzha. These night cruise over the stunning backwaters bring lifetime memories for tourists. 

Serving as the popular attractions of Kerala, Alleppey Backwaters hold tourists' attention. Cruising over the backwaters with Alleppey Houseboat is a different experience altogether.