Kerala Travel
Kerala is a state in Southern India, famous for its culture, spices, beaches and backwaters. It is also one of the most literate and prosperous states in India. Malayalees call their state "God's own country" and it is blessed with abundant greenery, tropical forests, a fertile coastal plain, fishing, tourism and a relatively stable political situation. Alleppey (Alappuzha)
Alleppey is one of the most important tourist centers in the state, with a large network of inland canals earning it the sobriquet "Venice of the east". Alleppey is also known for its spectacular snake - boat races held on the second Saturday of August, every year.
Ernakulam
Ernakulam district was formed on 1 April, 1958 with the Aluva, Kunnathunadu, Kochi, Kanayannur, Paravoor Taluks which was with Thrissur district. When Idukki district was formed on 26 January 1977, Thodupuzha taluk was joined with Idukki and Muvattupuzha taluk separated with to form Kothamangalam taluk.
Idukki
Idukki is situated at the top of Western Ghats surrounded by mountains. The Asia's first and the world's second great arch dam is in Idukki. This arch dam built across the Kuravan Kurathi mountain is wonderful and beyond description. Attached to this dam of 650 feet length and 550 feet height, two other dams are also there in Kulmavu and Cherunthony.
Kannur
Kannur is a land with a resonant past. Myths and legends abound. The ships of Solomon, they say: anchored along our coasts to collect timber for building the 'Temple of the Lord'. Kannur finds mention as NAURA in the 'Periplus of Erithrean Sea' a Greek work of great antiquity.
Kasargod
The land of Yakshagana and Theyyam Kasargod is acquiring prominence in the tourist map of India. This youngest district of Kerala has several niceties to offer to the enthusiastic backpackers and pilgrims. The enduring charm of its beach, the architectural marval of the temples , mosques and churches and the unique and tell tale flok art forms are genuine areas of attractions for the tourist.
Cochin (Kochi)
Undoubtedly the commercial hub of Kerala, the city of Cochin is where ancient civilization gracefully mingles with modern life. Right from the early years, Cochin has had cultural and trade relations with the outside world. She had also experienced pulsating episodes of European colonial rivalry.
Kollam
Kollam came into prominence in the 9th century AD. As cited by some historians, the Malayalam era - called the Kollam era - was established by Marthanda Varma, the ruler of Kollam in 825 AD! Kollam also has some notable importance in Indian history during the British Raj - it was the nerve centre of the rebellion organised by freedom fighter Veluthampi Dalava!
Kottayam
Kottayam, among the state’s more mountainous districts, provides some of Kerala’s finest natural scenes, sandwiched as it is between serene palm-fringed backwaters on the west and the Western ghats on the east. Much of this beauty is laid out in all its glory along the road which winds from Kottayam to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Thekkady through plantations of rubber, tea, coffee and pepper.
Kozhikode (Calicut)
Kozhikode on the Lakshadweep Sea, has been known throughout history as a significant port for trade and commerce. Its importance was further enhanced in the 10th century when it became the the capital of the powerful Zamorin dynasty. Known also as Calicut, the quality cotton , calico is believed to have originated here.
MunnarMunnar is situated at the confluence of three mountain streams - Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala. 1600 m above sea level, this hill station was once the summer resort of the erstwhile British Government in South India. Sprawling tea plantations, picture-book towns, winding lanes and holiday facilities make this a popular resort town.
Thekkady
The very sound of the word Thekkady conjures up images of elephants, unending chains of hills and spice-scented plantations. In the Periyar forest of Thekkady is one of the finest wildlife reserves in India and spread across the entire district are picturesque plantations and hill towns that hold great apportunities for treks and mountain walks.
Trichur (Thrissur)
Thrissur, meaning 'town with the name of Lord Siva', is regarded as the cultural capital of Kerala. An important religious and cultural centre for centuries, Thrissur was occupied by the kingdoms of Kochi from 16th to 18th century. It features one of the largest temple in Kerala, the Vadakkumnatha Kshethram and is the site for renowned Pooram Festival.
Trivandrum
The city gets its name from the word, Thiruvananthapuram (earlier known as Trivandrum), meaning the city of Anantha or the abode of the sacred Serpent Anantha on which Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the Hindu trinity, reclines. Trivandrum, the capital of the state of Kerala is a beautiful seaside city built on seven hills. The famous Sri. Padmanabha Swami Temple is dicated to Vishnu and is a landmark in the city. The sprawling city has an international airport. Most visitors to Kerala use it only as an arrival point, speeding on immediately to Kovalam.