Bekal - a jewel of Kerala

Overview

Renowned for its beautiful seashore, clean sandy beaches, palm grooves, green hills and calm backwaters, Bekal is a quaint destination situated in Kasargod district of Kerala. Bekal is one of the most picturesque regions in the ‘God’s Own Country’ – Kerala and equally famous for its historic importance and nicely preserved Bekal Fort. Historically Bekal has been an important port town during the rule of famous Kolathiries and other erstwhile dynasties. The past rulers of Bekal had constructed a number of forts, temples and other structures that still speak about the architectural styles and rich cultural heritage of the bygone era. Far from the glitz and mundane city life, Bekal is an excellent place to enjoy a laidback vacation in the lap of nature along with traditional hospitality of Kerala. 

Bekal Fort

Fast Facts                                                                                                  

Main Languages: Malayalam is the main language spoken by locals. People also speak Kannada and other South Indian languages along with Hindi.

When to Go: The climate of Bekal is temperate in nature marked by hot summer season (March to June), monsoon season with heavy rainfalls (June to September) and mild winters (December to February). October to March is considered the best time to visit Bekal.

Local Transport: You can hire a private vehicle to explore the town of Bekal. The major tourist attractions of Bekal can also be covered on foot.

Currency: Indian Rupee (INR) 1 USD is approximately 48 INR

Voltage: 230V / 50Hz

Time Zone: Indian Standard Time (UTC +5:30)

Location: On the coast of Arabian Sea in Kasargod district, Kerala.

Nearest Metropolis: Bangalore – 375 km away

Eating

Enjoy mouth-watering delicacies of Kerala at Bekal and other parts of Kasargod district as well. Although you will not find any luxury restaurant in the town, but the small and big eateries are enough to please your taste buds. Like most parts of South India, rice constitutes the main meal of Bekal and served along with different types of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Sea food like lobsters and prawns can also be savoured at Bekal. Eat whatever you wish as almost all the dishes offered by the eateries around Bekal are quite cheap and need not to worry about the prices.

Shopping

Bekal is not a shopper’s paradise, so the shopaholics have to find out the shopping possibilities from the limited options. Explore the small markets in Kasargod district and choose from the knickknacks to carry as a souvenir for yourself and family members. Locally manufactured handicrafts, woodcrafts, sarees, seashell objects, pickles, etc. can be bought while shopping in Bekal. Bargaining is common in Bekal and it is recommended to buy the items at almost exact price.  

Sightseeing

Bekal Fort is the principal landmark of Bekal that draws visitors in large numbers. Constructed by Shivappa Naik of Ikkeri dynasty between 1645 and 1660 AD, Bekal Fort is one of the well preserved forts in Kerala. An imposing rounded laterite structure, Bekal Fort stands on a promontory along the Arabian Sea soaring about 130 feet above sea level and covers an area of about 40 acres. Major highlights of Bekal Fort are the massive tanks and the tunnel entrance in the south. From the top of the fort you can enjoy breathtaking views of the serene beaches including the vast sea. Just at the entrance of the fort there is a small temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. You can also see an old mosque nearby that is believed to be built by Mysore King – Tipu Sultan.

After passing a good time in Bekal Fort move outside and cover the nearby tourist attractions. The beach adjacent to Bekal Fort is ideal to spend relaxing moments amidst tranquil surroundings. Also explore the nearby beaches like Kappil Beach, Pallikere Beach, Hosdurg Beach, and Kanwatheertha Beach. Besides Bekal Fort Beach, other beaches in Bekal offer a mesmerising view of the sunset over the Arabian Sea. Chandragiri Fort is another place of historic significance in Kasargod district that lies on a 183 metre high hill. Built in the 17th century AD, Chandragiri Fort offers a spectacular view of the Arabian Sea. Ananthapura Temple, Malik Deena Masjid (mosque), Kodi Cliffs and Nityanandashram Caves are other places of tourist interest around Bekal.

Activities

Leisurely stroll along the beautiful countryside of Bekal is a favoured activity among the visitors. You can cover the tourist attractions of Bekal including white sandy beaches on foot and experience the unspoiled nature at its best. Climb atop the rocky cliffs and hills on the coast of Arabian Sea and get the magnificent view of the sea and nearby areas. After a hectic day of sightseeing around Bekal, pay a visit to Bekal Hole Aqua Park, which is considered a heaven for water sports lovers as well as discerning tourists. You can enjoy thrilling water rides like pedal boats and water cycles in the aqua park.

A holiday in Bekal is incomplete without a cruise in the traditionally decorated Kettuvallom (houseboat) across the tranquil backwaters of Malabar region. Interestingly some houseboats are sophisticatedly designed and offers star hotel like accommodation facilities with single, double and triple bedroom options. Hence you can book a houseboat and enjoy a memorable stay with access to luxurious amenities.     

Events

Onam (August / September) is celebrated at a massive level in Kasargod like other parts of Kerala. Locals dress themselves in colourful attire and participate in fun-filled activities including dance and music performances. If you visit Bekal during Onam, don’t miss the opportunity to participate in the unique festivities that showcase old culture and traditions. ‘Theyyam’ - the folk art form of Kerala is performed in houses and temples of Bekal at frequent intervals from January to March. People in Bekal and nearby areas celebrate many other festivals with great pomp and gaiety.

Nightlife

After the sunset the whole Kasargod district including Bekal virtually sleeps. Don’t expect anything happening to do in the night. However, during important festivals and special occasions various types of events are organised in the night that can be a good option for you.

Excursions

Nileswaram also called Nilakanta Iswar is a historic spot and once served as the seat of the Nileswaram rulers. Referred to as the cultural centre of Kasargod district, Nileswaram is known for Kavil Bhavan Yoga & Cultural Centre, and temples and their related festivals. Situated about 20 km away from Bekal, Valiyaparamba is one of the most picturesque backwater stretches in Kerala. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy an amazing ride in a houseboat through the azure water of Valiyaparamba Backwaters. The lush green paddy fields and swaying palm groves add more beauty to the backwaters of Valiyaparamba. Mangalore (60 km), Kukke Subramanya (105 km), Thalassery (110 km), Madikeri (115 km) and Udupi (120 km) are some of the popular nearby spots from Bekal.

Getting There

Air: The nearest airport from Bekal is located in Mangalore, about 60 km away. Mangalore Airport is served by domestic flights from many cities of India and some international flights from the cities of Middle East. You can hire a taxi at Mangalore Airport for Bekal that costs around Rs. 800 – 1000. Kozhikode (Karipur) International Airport (175 km) is the nearest major international airport from Bekal. Taxis are available at Kozhikode International Airport that charges Rs. 3500 – 4000 for Bekal.

Rail: Bekal has not its own railway station, so you have to board a train to the nearby railheads Kanhangad (12 km) or Kasargod (12 km). After reaching to any of the two railway stations, you can take a taxi that costs around Rs. 300.

Road: Bekal is connected by good motorable roads with cities of Kerala, and nearby states of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. KSRTC (Kerala State Road Transport Corporation) and private buses ply at regular intervals to and from Bekal.  

Driving directions: From Kozhikode – Start from Calicut Trunk Road (NH 17) and drive on the same road to reach Bekal crossing Mahe, Thalassery and Kannur en-route (175 km, 5 hours approx).

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Top 5 Must See

Incredible India! Alleppey - the beach town of Kerala

Fast Facts

Location: Located in Alappuzha district of Kerala

Distance: 65 kilometres from Cochin

Altitude: Sea Level

Best time to visit: Alleppey experiences a pleasant climate during the winter months especially between August – September and February – March. That is also the time when most of the festivals and events are on, so it makes for the best vacation ever.

What to carry to Alleppey?

 The rustic beauty of Alleppey is best explored on foot – walks through spice and coffee plantations and quaint villages. A good pair of comfortable shoes is a must. Also carry a binoculars to spot those pretty and rare birds on your back water cruise. To be on the safe side, carry an umbrella or raincoat, being in the coastal region, rains is pretty unpredictable.

What to wear in Alleppey? 

Cotton clothes works best in Alleppey. It keeps you feeling airy and comfortable.

Recommendation for what kind of travellers?

Alleppey is an ideal holiday getaway for families and couples. It is also safe for single back packing trips.

Overview of Alleppey

Washed by the silver waves of the Arabian Sea, Alappuzha or Alleppey is a beautiful town with palm fringed canals and shores bustling with glimpses of the vibrant life of the daily country life. The mirror still lagoons, picture book lakes and long sandy beaches add magic to its rustic beauty. The backwaters are awesome and a trip down the meandering water listening to the cacophony of birds can beat any tour within India nd outside. Though Alleppey is ostracised by modernism and skyscrapers or fancy cars are seldom seen, the vibrant culture, scented forests of pepper and cinnamon, fiery cuisine, Ayurveda therapies and larger than life festivals and celebrations makes it a come through a full circle.  

How to Reach Alleppey

By Air: Two airports connect Alleppey (or Alappuzha) to major cities within India – Trivandrum (150 km) and Kochi (75 km). Pre-paid taxis can be found within the airport terminal itself and the usual going rate is Rs.15 per kilometre.

By Rail: Alleppey itself has a small railway station and regular trains run between it and the bigger railheads at Cochin and Trivandrum.

By Road: The KSRTC bus station is located 5 km from the Alleppey railway station. Regular bus services connect the town to Kollam, Ernakulam, Trivandrum and Kottayam.

Driving Directions: Alleppey is a mere 150 km away from Trivandrum, a driving distance of 3 hours. Start for the Trivandrum railway station taking the MG road out of the city. Take the NH-47 crossing Attingal, Kollam and Komalapuram and ending at Allappey.

Getting Around in Alleppey: Moving around in Alleppey is pretty easy with buses, yellow-top and tourist taxis, auto rickshaws, and cycle rickshaws readily available. The State Water Transport Department operates boat services connecting Alleppey with some other places like Kottayam, Chenganassery, Nedamudy and Kavalam.

Must See in Alleppey

Beautiful beaches, rippling canals and creeks crisscrossing water bound villages, backwaters through undulating paddy fields; Alleppey is a fragment of God’s Own Country called Kerala. Nature, wildlife, birds and temples all co-exist in harmony here.

Visit the Chettikulangara Bhagawathy Temple dedicated to Goddess Bhadrakali. A massive oil lamp made of granite is the most prominent feature of this temple; where you can light more than 1000 wicks at one go.

The Eddakal Caves located in the Ambukuthis Hills were formed by a massive split in the side of a cliff. The two natural rock formations that resulted are a repository of well-preserved pictographs dating back to ancient times, and widely considered to be among the finest in the world. They can only be accessed by walking half a mile along a trail, ensuring a degree of solitude.

Live the grandeur of the Travencore Kings at the Kanakakkunnu Palace dating back to 1800. The red brick exterior with its gables and pagoda shape is best experienced after dark when lights turn the palace into a work of art. Crystal chandeliers and ornate furniture add to its splendour.

Visit Karaumadikuttan, a 11th century statue of Buddha, which is also the source of many wonderful legends in Keralan history.

Alleppey has also a historic lighthouse built when the Dutch invaded this beautiful coastal town.

Must Do in Alleppey

Surrounded in natural beauty, there is so much you can do in Alleppey. With beautiful backwaters, lagoons fringed by dense coconut trees, sparkling canals and stunning beaches, you can spend time here floating down the backwaters in a quaint ‘kettuvallam’ or the traditional houseboat for short daytrips to longer, multi-day excursions.

Or go on a cruise in the Periyar Lake for a close up encounter with wild Indian elephants. There are observation towers around as well, just in case you want to check out the local wildlife. Hit the sand at Alleppey beach, with a kid’s park on the southern side and a sea-view park with a marina at the north end. The pier is more than 140 years old, and extends out into the sea offering great views of the old lighthouse perched on the point. Go bird watching on Pathiramanal Island, a little speck of land in the middle of Lake Vembanad. This is a favourite stopping point for rare migratory birds, you have to take a boat out for these sightings.

Include a trip to the Sree Krishna Temple, a classic Keralan Temple with lively surroundings. You can offer sweet milk porridge to the god and have it too! Keep an eye out for some unique paintings that adorn the walls of the Chuttamabalam, harking back to the time when sorcerers made human sacrifices to appease the gods - a practice which was only officially banned in 1949. Continue with your religious sojourn to the St. Sebastian’s Church, considered one of the seven original churches built by St Stephen in the first century. Located 14 miles north of Alleppey, this church is considered the most important pilgrimage site for Christians in Kerala. If you’re here in January, you may be able to catch the Feast of St Sebastian, which is a major event full of processions and interesting rituals.

Also, tour a traditional coir factory, unique to Kerala. Coir is made from coconut husks which are woven into ropes and coir yarn. You may even pick up something for your house as souvenir. Trek through the Western Ghats of Kerala to see some of the wildest territory in the region. These mountains which form the eastern border of Kerala are thickly forested and have always been a natural border for the Backwaters. If you want to add some serious adventure to your visit, this is where it’s at. The waters in Alleppey are ideal to go fishing. From small fresh water fish to large sea fish and prawns, crabs etc, you can get it all. At some restaurants, you can take your own catch and have it cooked to your liking. Quite an experience, isn’t it?

Shopping in Alleppey

Alleppey is not known as a shopping destination, though you will find shops selling coir mats and carpets, coconut products, spices like pepper, areca nut, cardamom in Mullakkal Road, the central area of the town.

Eating in Alleppey

Kerela is the land of the appams - whether it be the confounding noodle shaped idiappams (to be had with hot mutton curry) or the more regular chapatti style appams (served with prawn or mutton curry), you are spoilt for choice. You should sample the fresh seafood cooked with local spices. The Vembanad Restaurant (Alleppey Prince Hotel, A S Road) is highly recommended for great food and live music. Hot Kitchen (Mullakkal Road) serves delicious Kerala breakfast. For a taste of authentic filter coffee and lazy atmosphere, head to India Coffee House (Mullakkal Road, YMCA Road). Sree Durga Bhavan Udipi Hotel (Cullan Road) serves vegetarian south Indian thalis.

Nightlife in Alleppey

A small town, Alleppey does not offer much to do at night. Of course, you can go for walks or enjoy bonfires under the starlit sky. And yes, if you are on a houseboat, you can enjoy a romantic time cruising down the river.

Events (Festivals) in Alleppey

The Nehru Trophy boat race on Punnamada Lake is a major attraction in Alleppey, which is held during the Onam festival celebrated in the second week of August. The festivities of the Mullakal temple during the month of December are highly recommended as some of India’s finest temple musicians perform in the main hall during this festival. The Chettikulangara Bhagawathy Temple buzzes with activity during February and March when the Bhadrakali deity, with her miraculous healing powers, is worshipped during the Chettikulangara Bharani festival celebrated in the Malayalam month of Kumbham (February/March). Arthunkal Perunnal, the annual feast of St. Sebastian is celebrated in St. Andrews Forane Church. This is a 10-day festival which falls sometime in the beginning of January. St. George's Church festival alias Edathua feast is held at St.George's Church from 27th April to7th of May (Malayalam month of Medam), during which, the statue of St George beautifully adorned with gold is carried out in procession and it is placed on a platform at the centre of the church till the concluding day.

Excursions from Alleppey

As beautiful as she is, Alleppey offers a day’s or a few hours’ excursion in the surrounding areas.

Pathiramanal is an island in Vembanad Lake which is a few kilometres from Alleppey lies Pathiramanal. For all you nature lovers Pathiramanal is a heaven for bird watchers, especially for rare migratory birds. Alapuzha Beach is located a few kilometres from Alleppey and is a beautiful stretch of golden sand, pretty shells cordoned off with beautiful palm trees. Kuttanad is a scenic countryside, with glittering waterways and lush farms in the heart of the backwaters. Interestingly, here, the farms are below sea level, so the waterways are actually above the farming land! You must visit the Krishnapuram Palace located at a distance of 47 kms from Alleppey, an age old palace built by Marthanda Varma in the 18th century. A classic example of Keralan architecture, the large incredible murals and a beautiful museum within the palace complex is worth noticing here. The Poomkavu Church is located just outside the town instead, and it’s a destination attended by Christian people, that reach the church for pilgrims and religious practices.

Top 5 to do in Alleppey

• Ayurvedic massage – Home to a science as old as the Vedic age, you cannot leave Alleppey without pampering yourself to a relaxing Ayurvedic massage. Rejuvenate your mind, body and soul from a range of treatments for your back, head, foot etc.

• Backwater Cruise – Feel the balmy breeze and enjoy the rustic vistas of a typical Keralan village as you meander down the serene back waters except for the cacophony of birds. Enjoy nature’s best in a backwater cruise in a typical houseboat in Alleppey.

• Plantation Visit – Have you ever seen tiny bulbs of cardamom hanging from the plant? Or crossed a sweet scented cinnamon tree? Well, here’s your chance. Go to a spice plantation in Alleppey and do more than just a tour… buy some for your friends and family!

• Go fishing – Yes, why deny yourself the ultimate country life experience? Try your hands at fishing in the rivers and lakes of Alleppey and who knows, you might just ‘catch’ yourself your supper!

• Trekking – Surrounded by the Western Ghat mountains and covered with thick forests, Alleppey offers excellent trekking trails for adventure enthusiasts. A packed lunch, good pair of shoes and a pair of binoculars and you all set to discover the virgin beauty of Alleppey.

To see in Alleppey

• The Nehru Boat Race – Yes, if you chance to be in Alleppey in the second week of August, you cannot miss out on this one. The frenzy in the audience is addictive and the race is simply engrossing.

• Periyar Lake – A trip down the Periyar Lake and to the Alleppey Wildlife Sanctuary, be assured to meet and see exotic wildlife and various migratory birds. As you enter the wooded areas of the Lake, you can meet bison, deer and many other inhabitants of the forest. Besides lounging and gazing at the beautiful mountains, keep an eye out for rare migratory birds on the banks.

• Kalaripayattu and Kathakali cultural programmes – Ancient self defence mechanism and a traditional dance form, both Kalaripayattu and Kathakali are a symbolic display of a rich culture and heritage. Make sure you are a part of both in your visit to Alleppey.

• Kanakakkunnu Palace – Visit the Kanakakkunnu Palace for its regal splendour and architectural excellence of the Travancore Maharajas, with gabled pagoda style of architecture. Royal extravagance marks this beautiful place adorned with large crystal chandeliers and exquisite pieces of royal furniture.

• Kuttanad – A visit to Kuttanad is a must not only for its natural rustic beauty, but for the mere fact that the waterways are above the farming land!

Incredible India! Kolukkumalai Tea Estate, Munnar, Kerala

The highest tea estate in the world at 8,000 feet, Munnar, Kerala

Thirty-five km outside of Munnar, India, the Kolukkumalai Tea Estate is built high atop the precipitous ridge that rises above the plains. Known for its excellent, flavorsome teas, this estate is also known for its panoramic views and the for the rugged mountains that surround it.

It's remote - it takes about 90 minutes to reach Kolukkumalai from Munnar - but on clear nights, you can see Kodaikanal from the estate because of its height. The factory at the center of the estate has stood for several generations, having been built more than 70 years ago. It uses traditional techniques even today that serve as a draw for tea enthusiasts. Orthodox tea-making is a seven-step process that includes withering, rolling, sieving, fermenting, drying, fiber extraction, and grading. All of this work happens in the small factory that has not been changed since the British constructed it in the 1930s.

The estate was the 2005 Southern Tea Competition winner of the Golden Leaf India Awards.

Incredible India! Srirangam Temple, Trichy (Tiruchirapalli)

The largest functioning Hindu Temple in the world (Angkor Wat is the largest Hindu temple but non-functional) – The Vishnu Temple of Srirangm (Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple). It is located in the city of Trichy.

Srirangam is the foremost of the eight self-manifested shrines (Swayam Vyakta Kshetras) of Lord Vishnu . It is also considered the first, foremost and the most important of the 108 main Vishnu temples (Divyadesams). In the Vaishnava parlance the term "KOIL" signifies this temple only. The temple is enormous in size. The temple complex is 156 acres in extent. It has seven prakaras or enclosures. These enclosures are formed by thick and huge rampart walls which run round the sanctum. There are 21 magnificent towers in all prakaras providing a unique sight to any visitor. this temple lies on an islet formed by the twin rivers Cauvery and Coleroon.

The temple of Sri Ranganathaswami at Srirangam boasts an historic past of great kingdom and a civilization thousands of years old. The reign of the Pallavas was marked by the creation of a solid religious foundation, for example the encouragement given by the dynasty appears to have contributed to the growth of Aryan institutions in Southern India more particularly in the Carnatic. Cholas reigned for about three hundred years over the Coromandel Coast and the greater part of Eastern Deccan, where they helped an advanced Hindu Culture to flourish.

Incredible India! Varkala - A Little Explored Destination of Kerala

Fast Facts About Varkala

Located in the State of : Kerala

District: Thiruvananthapurm

Famous As / For : Serene Beaches

Languages Spoken: Tamil & English

Best Time to Visit Varkala: October to March

Average Temperatures at Varkala: Summer 22 to 40°C, Winter 12 to 33°C

STD code of Varkala: 0470

A little known coastal town, Varkala is situated in the ‘God’s Own Country’ – Kerala. The beautiful town of Varkala comes under the administrative control of Thiruvananthapuram District. Interestingly, Varkala is a place where the hills are located close to the sea. Besides this, there are several natural fishers and springs that are located in the town that attracts the tourists from far and near. The beaches of Varkala are relatively untouched and they are clean as well.

Papanasam Beach is one of the main beaches in Varkala, which is thronged by tourists in large number. Varkala Beach is a popular beach and there are various activities such as paragliding and parasailing that can be experienced at this beach.

There is also a famous temple at Varkala called the Jannardana Swamy Temple. This temple is over 2000 years old and it is one of the main attractions of the place. The temple is home to an old bell that was taken from an ancient shipwreck of a Dutch Freighter.

Kapil Lake is another tourist site that is located close to the beach. Anjengo Fort is a historic place that is located nearby and it is a popular destination for many tourists. Varkala Tunnel and the Lighthouse are other places of tourist interest in Varkala.

Incredible India! Little Explored Destination: Adoor - Kerala

Fast Fasts About Adoor

Located in the State of : Kerala

District: Pathanamthitta

Famous for : Temples

Languages Spoken: Malayalam

Best Time to Visit Adoor: All through the year

Average Temperatures at Adoor: Summer 25 to 45°C, Winter 16 to 25°C

STD code of Adoor: 04734

Situated in the Pathanamthitta district of Kerala, halfway between the cities of Trivandrum and Ernakulam. The town of Adoor is also famous for its rich and bustling culture, and it is one of cultural capitals in the state of Kerala. However, the town has got national and international fame for housing the Parthasarathy Temple: Also called the Sree Parthasarathy Temple, this temple is dedicated to the main deity Lord Krishna, who is also known by his other name ‘Parthasarathy’ which literally translates into ‘the charioteer of Arjuna’. This temple is the oldest temple in the region that is dedicated to Lord Krishna.

There are many other prominent temples in and around Adoor, thus making it an important destination for pilgrims and tourists alike. Some of the other noted temples in Adoor are Sreedharma Sastha Temple in Chennampallil, the Maha Vishnu Temple in Elamannoor, the Trichenda Mangalam Mahadeva Temple in Peringanad, and the Sreenarayanapuram Temple in Manakala. After exploring the temples of Adoor, you can pay a visit to Chandanapally Valiyapally Church, which lies around 10 kilometers away from Adoor. There are many other churches in the region as well that are of religious and historical importance, including Adoor Immanuel Marthoma Church and St. Mary’s Orthodox Church.

How To Reach Adoor

Reaching to the town of Adoor is easy, as many buses are available from all the nearby regions. You can also opt for trains and flights to the city of Kochi, from where you can travel to the town of Adoor through bus.

By Air: Kochi International Airport is the nearest major airport, which is about 125 kms away from the town of Adoor. The airport is served by many flights from major cities of India and also some international destinations.

By Train: The nearest railway stations in the city of Kochi are the Ernakulam Junction and Ernakulam Town railway stations. Ernakulam Junction is a major station that has frequent trains to all cities including New Delhi, Trivandrum, Mangalore, Patna, Trichy, Chennai and Mumbai.

By Bus: Buses are available to the town of Adoor from Trivandrum, Ernakulam, and Kochi. You will easily be able to avail buses to Adoor from all the following destinations including Kayamkulam, Punaloor, Pathanamthitta, Kottarakkara, Guruvayoor, Chavara, Kollam, and Karunagapally. Bus fares for local travel (within the state) may cost around Rs 50 to 100. Both air conditioned and non air conditioned buses will be available from Bangalore to Adoor. Non air conditioned coaches will cost around Rs 600/ per trip, while air conditioned coaches will cost around Rs 750/.

Thiruvananthapuram - the capital city of Kerala

Quick Facts
Situated in : Kerala, 218 kms, south of Kochi
Major Attractions: Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Vizhinjam, Bhagawathy Temple
Ideal Time to Visit: October to February

Earlier known as Trivandrum, Thiruvananthapuram is the capital of Kerala. Thiruvananthapuram lies towards the southern end of the state on the low lying hills of the Western Coast of India, interspersed by ridges and lanes. Trivandrum is an ancient city the traces of which can be found as early as 1000 B.C. Even then the city was an established trade and commerce centre. The city was made the capital of Travancore in the year 1745 during the reign of Marthanda Varma. Presently, the city is one of the primary commercial and industrial areas located in the state of Kerala.

Trivandrum is dotted with a range of hotels. Budget hotels are most in number and located throughout the city. Some known hotels of Trivandrum are Muthoot Plaza Hotel, South Park Hotel, Hotel Saj Lucia, Hotel Residency Tower, Hotel Mascot and Hotel Pankaj. Trivandrum is connected with other city and states by all major means of transport. There are buses, trains and airways providing the services in the city.

Major Attractions of Trivandrum
Shree Padhmanabhaswamy Temple: Situated in the heart of the city, Shree Padhmanabhaswamy Temple is dedicated to 'Padmanabhaswamy', an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The temple is built in a typical Dravidian style, which is unusual for a temple in Kerala and features a tall gopuram. It happens to be one of the most revered places of Hindus and every year thousands of them reach the site to pay the homage and for offerings.

Bhagawathy Temple: One of the popular worshipping places in Kerala, Bhagawathy Temple is dedicated to Goddess Bhagawathy. The temple site is a great attraction during the festival days of Ponal Utsavam, which is celebrated for 10 days.

Kuthiramalika Palace Museum: The palace was built by Maharaja Swathi Thirunal. The architecture of the palace represents typical Travancore style with incredible wood carving. The palace also features paintings and valuable articles belonging to the royal family, that have been preserved here.

Government Art Museum: The Government Art Museum or Napier Museum as it is popularly called has been built in the year 1880 in the honour of Lord Napier. The museum houses great archaeological and historical artifacts.

Vizhinjam: The place used to be a popular site for the Dutch and Portuguese traders. It is located south of Kovalam beach and represents a modern fishing harbour.

M.G.Road: The road is a popular shopping area located in the city. Sandalwood, brass and oil lamps are extensively sold in the markets here. A lot of general stores and arts, antiquities shops are located at M.G.Road. The Connemara Market is great shopping place here.

Kovalam Beach: Just 16 kms from the city is the popular Kovalam Beach. The beach comprises of a series of beaches, the best one being the southern most. The beach area has emerged as a great tourist place and is lined up with resorts and tourist cottages.

Kozhikode

Quick Facts

Popularly Known As: Calicut
Major Attractions: Kappad, Kozhikode Beach, Beypore, Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary
Suitable Time to Visit: September to February

Previously known as Calicut, Kozhikode is a beautiful town in Kerala State. Kozhikode is typically a coastal town sandwiched between the districts of Kannur and Malappuram. Set along the cool blue Arabian Sea, the town is renowned for important historic sites, serene beaches, beautiful hills, tranquil backwaters, wildlife sanctuaries and many other attractions. Kozhikode is easily accessible by air, rail and road transport. For accommodation there are budget, luxury and star category hotels.

Major Attractions in Kozhikode
Kozhikode Beach: A fun beach Kozhikode Beach is home to a number of attractions that include amusement parks, lighthouse and two very old piers. Also enjoy the astonishing sunset view from the beach.

Pazhassiraja Museum and Art Gallery: The museum has a great collection of arts and antiquities. You can see exhibits like ancient murals, ancient bronze articles, coins, models of temples and some megalithic monuments.

Kozhikode Planetarium: The panetarium is located at Jaffarkhan colony. The planetarium reveals the mysteries of the universe, the planets and the galaxies. Daily shows are hosted at the place, at 12 o'clock, 02 p.m., 04 p.m. and 06 p.m.

Velliyamkallu: The massive rock on the shores is considered as dangerous place that navigators were often afraid of. The rock used to be employed by the Marakkars as a vantage point against the invading Portuguese.

Kalipoika: Just 2 km from Kozhikode, Kalipoika offers unique boating experience. Some other attractions located nearby include Thikkoti Lighthouse, Kirtads, , Payyoli, Kakkayam, Varakkal Devi Temple, Tusharagiri, St. Mary's Church, Buddha Vihar, Peruvannamuzhi, Vellari Mala, Wayanad Ghats, Kuttiyadi, Iringal, Mananchira Maidan, Kuttichira, Mishkal Masjid, Pishakarikavu, Lokanarkavu Temple, Mannur Temple, Ponmeri, etc.

Beypore Harbour: Beypore Harbour is situated on Chaliyar River, around10 km south of Kozhikode. The old port is a popular attraction and features a community that has been building vessels for more than one and a half millennia.

Kappad Beach: Set approximately 16 km away from Kozhikode, the beautiful beach is popular as the place where Vasco De Gama landed on 27th May 1498. A monument had been established on the beach that commemorates the event. From the beach you can enjoy great view of the stretched out sea. Also visit the temple built on the rocks that reach out for the sea.

Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary: Situated 25 km away from Kozhikode, the bird sanctuary homes hundreds of bird species including terns, sea gulls, herons, sandpipers, etc.