Andaman & Nicobar - Emerald Islands !

A bird's eye view shows this cluster of 350 small and large island as small, green speaks staggered on the vast blue waters. Situated midway between India and Burma, in the Bay of Bengal, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands were at one time inhabited by various tribes which strongly resisted any efforts at civilization. some of these tribes are perhaps among the oldest tribal communities in the world, and tourists are prohibited from establishing contact with them. Owing to prolonged isolation they are somewhat hostile and are also under the danger of catching infection from outsiders.

 

 

 

Indian legend traces the name Andaman to a derivation of Hanuman or Hanuman the Monkey God of the epic Ramayana, who is said to have used these islands as stepping stones on his way to Sri Lanka, to save Goddess Sita, consort of Lord Rama.

 

 

 

Modern history perhaps dates to 1789 when Lord Cornwallis, the British Governor -General commissioned a survey of the islands.

 

 

 

Later, after the First War of Independence in 1857 the British established a penal colony here and Andamans and Port Blair, the capital, came to be a dreaded word. For, known as 'Kala Pani' of 'Black Water', the city was the site of the Cellular Jail - a panel colony where political prisoners were banished, perhaps never to be seen again.

 

 

 

During world War II, the Japanese occupied the Islands and held them from 1944-1945. The Andamans today present a totally different picture. Some tribes have opened up, and the British rule is no more. The islands are now fast becoming an attractive holiday destination-for the anthropologist and the beach lover.

 

 

 

The Islands are a living museum of planet earth. Dense rain forests, and canopies of luxuriant green branches host a variety of birds, insects, and all kind of life. There are beautiful tropical flowers and orchids. The jungles shelter about 242 species of birds, 46 species of mammals and 78 species of reptiles comprising the wild cat, iguana, green lizards, deer, wild pig, goats and a wide variety of snakes.

 

 

 

The water are clear and beautiful, and the beaches at Corbyn's Cove, Wandoor, Jolly Boy and Cinque offer an excellent sea for swimming. Numerous other beaches are open to holidayers out to enjoy water sports. Tourists can surf, ski, scuba dive, snorkel, sail, fish or just enjoy the sea, the sun and the sand. For the more adventurous, deep-sea diving unfolds precious treasures of corals, vegetation, sponges and fish life.

 

Climate : Summer (March to June) - Warm Monsoon (July to August) - Warm and Humid Winter(November to February)- Chilly to Very Cold

 

Clothing : Summer - Cottons Winter - Woollens

 

Languages spoken : Indigenous languages, Hindi, Assamese, Bengali & English.

 

Best Time to visit : October to April

 

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Mysore Dasara

Mysore Dasara , the state festival (Nadahabba) of Karnataka,India is celebrated for 10 days. Dasara or Vijayadashami, the last day of Navaratri is a jubilant festival to mark the conclusion of Mysore Dasara festival. Mysore Dasara 2010 starts on October 8th and ends on October 17th. In 2010, it marks the 400th year of celebrations. Mysore Chamundeshwari Temple is one of the Astadasha Shakti peetham (18 popular Shakti temples). Da...sara celebrations in Mysore were started by the Vijayanagar Kings the 15th Century. The Wodeyar’s of Mysore continued the Dasara festival in 1610 at Srirangapatna.

The procession of elephants (Ambari), exhibitions of handicrafts and artifacts, air show, wrestling competitions, Jambu Savari, Food mela, etc are the most popular events and celebrations of Mysore Dasara. This festival culminates on Vijayadashami at Bannimantapa with Banni tree puja (botanical name of Banni Tree – Prosopis spicigera).

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Silent Valley National Park

Location: 40 km from Mannarkkad, Palakkad district, North Kerala.

Attractions: Extremely fragile, a unique preserve of tropical evergreen rain forests lying above the equator and the forest strip which causes the summer rains in Kerala.

 

The Silent Valley National Park with an area of 90 sq km is located in the Northeastern corner of Palakkad district. It rises abruptly to the Nilgiri Plateau in the North and overlooks the plains of Mannarkkad in the South.

The core of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve is the Silent Valley National Park. Despite its name, the Silent Valley (the clamour of Cicadas is conspicuously absent here) echoes with the sounds of teeming wildlife. The denizens of this sprawling habitat of endangered virgin tropical forests include rare birds, deer and tiger.

Perhaps, nowhere else can one find such a representative collection of peninsular mammals, over a 100 species of butterflies and 400 species of moths and other fauna like the Ceylon Frogmouth, Great Indian Hornbill, the Nilgiri Laughing Thrush and the Lion-tailed Macaque.

The River Kunthi descends from the Nilgiri hills, from an altitude of 2000 m above sea level, and traverses the entire length of the valley and rushes down to the plains through the deep forest. The River Kunthi never turns brown and is always crystal clear, perennial and wild.

The evapo-transpiration from these forests is much higher than from any other surface. This cools the atmosphere, helps easy condensation of water vapour and thus causes the summer rains. Visit Bumblebee Holidays

Getting there:

Nearest railway station: Palakkad, about 80 km.

Nearest airport: Coimbatore (in neighbouring Tamilnadu State), about 55 km.

 

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Entrance of Silent Valley National Park

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Mussorie - Queen of hills

Mussoorie is distinctively known as the queen of hills, because of its out of the world splendor. One of the major tourist destinations in Uttrakhand, Mussoorie not only boasts of the picturesque views of the Himalayas and the Doon valley but it also showcases some of the rarest flora and fauna of the country. Standing magnificently among the foot hills of the Himalayas, this hill adorns the edge of the Garhwal Himalayas. With River Ganga on one end and River Yamuna on the other, Mussoorie stretches up to 12 miles in length.

 

 

 

 

 

Mussoorie is an essential part of Uttrakhand tourism. Apart from its own charismatic beauty, Mussoorie boasts of stupendous visions of the Himalayan ranges covered with snow and the charming views of the Doon valley and Haridwar. The irregular shapes of the hills clad in a cloak of green flora and white mist take you to a fairyland. The peaks of Chakhamba, Shrikantha, Banderpoonch and the Gangotri look beautiful from here and form some of the major tourist attractions in Mussoorie.

 

 

 

 

 

Some of the other tourist sites in Mussoorie include the Camel back road, Gunhill, the town Mall, the Bhadraj Temple, Children’s lodge and the Municipal garden. The place is home to many water falls namely Kempty falls, Bhatta falls, Mossey falls and Jharipani falls.

 

 

 

 

Traveling to Mussoorie is pretty convenient as it is well placed and well connected. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant in Dehradun. The closest railway station is also in Dehradun. There are many trains plying to and fro Haridwar and Rishikesh as well. Mussoorie is connected through proper roadways to all major towns and cities of Uttaranchal, Delhi, Punjab and Uttar Pradesh.

 

 

 

 

Being a major tourist site, Mussoorie provides world class accommodation options to the tourists. There are a number of hotels in Mussoorie. You have the options of 5 star, 3 star, budget hotels as well as lodges and inns to choose from. Generally, all major tour packages of Mussoorie include accommodation facilities.

 

 

 

 

 

Mussoorie has many stories to tell. Every road, every lane has places and edifices which have their own stories. The Lal tibba, the Mussoorie library, the Landour Bazaar and Gunhill, each of them has their own history. Unlike Shimla, Mussoorie was never considered the summer capital. It has always remained informal with a tradition of romance in the air.  Visit Bumblebee Holidays 

 

 

 

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Overview

The travelling is always taxing on your body, though you forget everything once you reach your destination. The picture changes drastically once you reach the top as the sudden rushing sound of the cascading waterfall makes you feel that the water has begun to fall only now. Though the fact is that the waters have maintained this suddenness for a long time and they are still persevering. The Athirapally waterfalls are 80 feet high which start at the high ranges calmly and come crashing down through the gorges.

 

There is a rocky road that moves around the mountain providing you with a magnificent view of the Athirapally waterfalls. Visiting the Athirapally waterfalls in September is a good idea as the waterfalls are in full force just after the monsoons.

 

The Landscape

As you move nearer through the beautifully landscaped road to Athirapally, you can enjoy the views of Arecanut Palms on one side and the Chalakudy river on the other side. First the river seems winding and then it crashes down suddenly, white with challenge. Only after a short distance, the river is back to its normal self again. Trekking is a wonderful way to explore the nearby areas, especially if you do it along the banks of the Chalakudy river.

The waterfall is located at a height in the Sholayar forest ranges and is very near to the Valparai which is a popular hill station.

 

The Surroundings

There are some vendors here who sell jute hats and plastic flowers, they definitely make the place more tourist friendly. The presence of the waterfall is unmistakable everywhere in Athirapally as it is present either in the form of a painting or a topic of conversation.

 

Nearby Attractions

 

Valparai

It is a hill station known for its sprawling tea plantations. The elephant density of the place is among the highest in India.

 

Vazhachal Waterfalls

It is a picturesque waterfall as well as a popular picnic spot located on the periphery of the Sholayar forest range in Kerala. This waterfall is also a part of the Chalakkudy river.

 

Anakkayam

The place is about 20 km away from the Chalakudy and is known for a lake with calm and soothing waters. So far Anakkayam has remained untouched by human encroachment therefore has a pristine beauty that never fails to captivate the tourists.

 

How to Reach?

After you reach the Cochin International Airport or the Cochin Railway Station, you'll have to drive for 55 km to reach the Athirapally waterfalls. From Cochin you'll have to drive on NH 47 and then turn right from the Chalakudy Junction, which is the nearest railhead. The city of Thrissur is at the distance of about 63 km from the Athirapally waterfalls. You are allowed to visit the waterfall only between 8 am and 6 pm.

 

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RAMADAN

Idul-Fitr, of late known by the misnomer 'Ramadan' is one of the two festivals of Islam. Ramadan is the ninth month of the lunar year.

During this month the Muslims observe fast, giving up all kinds of food and drink during day time, and spend the major part of the night in devotion and prayer. Purification of the body and soul is the main aim of this observance. When the crescent appears on the western horizon heralding the end of the month of fasting, it marks the beginning of the Idul-Fitr festival. Because this festival is connected with the month of Ramadan, it came to be known as 'Ramadan'. The Idul-Fitr festival starts with the commencement of the first day of the month of 'Shawwal'.

The first item of the celebration is distribution of food materials to the poor and the deserving. Any person who holds food in excess of the day's need must necessarily make his contribution in accordance with the scales prescribed by Islam. Muslims all over the world celebrate this festival with great éclat and in gratitude to God.

In the morning men, women and children cleanse their bodies, put on the best attire and proceed to the mosque or the Id-Gah. The assembled Muslims gathering then offers the congregational prayer led by the Imam. After the prayers the Imam delivers the sermon pointing out the extreme importance of the occasion. Returning home after the ceremonial functions, they visit friends and relatives. Some make it a point to visit the graves of close relatives, on this day. In certain parts of Kerala, for instance Chavakkad, Muslim women, dressed in their best clothes and wearing jewelery, celebrate this occasion by paying visits to neighbors and engaging in entertainments. The women org anise themselves into groups and spend the time in singing and dancing.

Recently in certain parts of Kerala new practices is connection with the celebration of this festival have been introduced. One of the novel features of the Id celebration is to invite members of the sister communities to participate in such function.

Ganesh Chaturthi Celebrations

Ganesh Chaturthi is a spectacular festival, honoring the birth of Lord Ganesha. It is celebrated all over India, but the maximum grandeur is witnessed at Maharashtra. This festival witnesses various cultural events, which bring the public together and enhance the sense of belongingness and togetherness. The celebration ends with the immersion of the Lord Ganesha's idol into the water. Huge processions of people carry the idol to a river, lake or ocean, accompanied by the chant of Ganapati Bappa Morya. Ganesh Chaturthi is the significant festival of Maharashtra, Karnataka, Gujarat and Rajasthan.

Celebrations in Maharashtra

Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated in almost each and every household of Maharashtra, with great faith and belief, for around ten days. The celebrations take place at both individual and community level. Huge pandals are set up and the idol of Ganesha is worshipped by the entire community together, with pomp and show. The celebrations begin with the installation of a Lord Ganesha idol in home, which is worshipped daily by the family members as well as their friends, relatives and even neighbors, who come to have darshan of the Lord. Various cultural events are also organized during these ten days. The celebration ends on the tenth day, when all the people go to the river or sea, to immerse the idol.

Celebrations in Karnataka

In Karnataka, Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated with prayers offered to Gauri, the mother of Lord Ganesh. The married women pray to Goddess Gauri, to get blessings ofeir long lasting married life. It is celebrated in different temples of Lord Ganesh, where prayers are offered to the Lord and Gauri. In Karnataka, Ganesh Chaturthi is also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi and is counted amongst the popularly celebrated festivals.

Celebrations in Gujarat

In Ahmedabad, the capital city of Gujarat, Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated with great pomp and show. Offerings are made to Lord Ganesh at numerous temples. Elaborate arrangements are made for lighting and decoration and Ganeshji is fervently worshipped for about 7-10 days. On the day of the Chaturthi, i.e. the last of the ten days dedicated to God, idols are immersed at river Sabarmati and Kankaria Lake. Firecrackers are let off and huge images of Ganeshji are carried in grand procession for 'Ganesh Visarjan' (immersion), accompanied by the sound of devotional songs and drums.

Celebrations in Rajasthan

In Rajasthan, on Ganesh Chaturthi, an image of Ganesh is bathed in red kumkum and a garland of red flowers is put on the idol, placed by many households right outside their entrance. A small thaal, with haldi and kumkum, is also placed at the entrance, so that the visiting people take a pinch of each and put it on their foreheads and throat. Ladoos are usually kept in the house, to be first offered to Ganeshji and then distributed as prasad to the devotees.

Kerala Tourism

Kerala Tourism

Kerala or Keralam (Malayalam: കേരളം?; Kēraḷam) is a state in south-western India. It was created on 1 November 1956, with the passing of the States Reorganization Act bringing together the areas where Malayalam is the dominant language. The state has an area of 38,863 ...km2 and is bordered by Karnataka to the north, Tamil Nadu to the south and the east and the Arabian sea towards the west. Thiruvananthapuram is the capital of Kerala. Kochi and Kozhikode are other major cities. A 3rd-century-BC rock i

nscription by emperor Asoka the Great attests to a Keralaputra.[3] Around 1 BC the region was ruled by the Chera Dynasty, which traded with the Greeks, Romans and Arabs. The Tamil Chera dynasty, Ays and the Pandyan Empire were the traditional rulers of Kerala whose patriarchal dynasties ruled until the 14th century.[4][5] The Chera Kingdom were Patriarchal in descendency. The Cheras collapsed after repeated attacks from the neighboring Chola and Rashtrakuta kingdoms. Feudal Namboothiri Brahmin and Nair city-states subsequently gained control of the region.[6] Kolla Varsham or Malayalam Era, which is assumed to have been established by King Udaya Marthanda Varma in 825 AD, serves as the official calendar of Kerala.[7] Early contact with Europeans gave way to struggles between colonial and native interests. After independence, the state of Kerala was created in 1956 from the former state of Travancore-Cochin, the Malabar district of Madras State, and the Kasaragod taluk of Dakshina Kannada.[8] Kerala is a popular tourist destination famous for its backwaters, Ayurvedic treatments [9] and tropical greenery. Kerala has a higher Human Development Index than all other states in India.[10][11] The state has a literacy rate of 91 percent,[2] the highest in India. A survey conducted in 2005 by Transparency International ranked Kerala as the least corrupt state in the country.[12] Kerala has witnessed significant migration of its people, especially to the Persian Gulf countries, starting with the Kerala Gulf boom, and is uniquely dependent on remittances from its large Malayali expatriate community .Bumblebee Holidays

Athirapally Waterfalls

The Athirappilly Falls are situated on the Chalakudy River, which originates in the upper reaches of the Western Ghats. Many endangered and endemic species of flora and founa are found in the forests of the Athirapilly-Vazhachal area. This area is the only place in the Western Ghats where four endangered Hornbill species are seen. The Western Ghats is one of the most important biodiversity hot spot in the world

 

A tranquil and much needed escape from the troubles and stress of life. Let the soothing sounds take you to some of natures most relaxing places - the beautiful waterfalls of Athirampally and Vazhachal The charm of the Athirampally and Vazhachal nature cannot be described by words, Starting calmly from the high ranges, and crashing through gorges overhung with trees, this waterfall is one of the best places in India to re-capture a real sense of the classical idea of the 'Picturesque' - not just calm and sweet, but something wild and natural.

 

Perched high above in the the Sholayar forest ranges on the fringes of Kerala's famed rain forests, the waterfalls provides a restful escape for those wanting to leave the hurried pace of city life behind. wild and beautiful, unspoilt by the passing of time.

Theyyam

Kerala has a vast repertoire of folk performing arts, folk songs and folk drama that showcase man’s overpowering rapport with nature and his constant desire for communication with the unknown.

Theyyam ,one of the most outstanding folk arts of Kerala has its origin in the northern parts of the state.The Oldest ritual art form,there are about 45 different Theyyams including the Agni Theyyam where the dancers walk on fire

Ambalapuzha Palpayasam

Relish a Heavenly dessert....Get to taste the delicious Ambalapuzha pal payasam(milk and rice pudding) famed all over India for its out of the world taste. Especially made for Lord Krishna, the reigning deity of Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple, the secret of its unique flavour is in the slow cooking that stretches to almost seven hours .It is said that if this daily offering is late even a few minutes, the deity gets hungry that his mundu (cloth tied around the waist) loosens and falls to the ground.

Mayilattam

Mayilattam is an artistic and religious form of dance performed in the Temples of Kerala in reverence to Lord Subrahmanya.

Mayilattam performer wears costumes like Lord Subrahmanya travelling on his Peacock and performs specific dances. The performer dances not on his bare foot but on a tall piece of wood attached at the end of his feet. This art requires extensive training and practice

Breathtaking Munnar - A haven of peace and tranquility !

Location : Idukki, central Kerala. 

Altitude : 1600 - 2695 m above sea level. 

 

Munnar,a charming hill station covered with unending expanses of tea plantations, was the summer resort of most European settlers in Kerala for centuries. 

 

Anamudi, the highest mountain peak in south India towering at an altitude of 2695 m above sea level, is part of this hill station. Munnar is ribboned by winding lanes that snake through its tea plantations. 

 

Among the exotic flora found in the rich tropical forests and grasslands here is the Neelakkurinji (Strobilanthus) . This unique plant that blooms only once in twelve years paints the entire Munnar hillside blue. 

 

An assortment of wildlife such as the endangered mountain goat - Nilgiri Tahr, Nilgiri Langur, Sambar, 

Gaur and the Lion tailed Macaque are found in the tropical forests around Munnar. 

 

Munnar literally means three rivers and has three mountain streams - Muthirapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala - meeting at the heart of the town. 

 

There are a number of leisure and adventure activities awaiting tourists at Munnar. 

 

Tea garden Visits: Permission to visit any of the 26 factories of Tata tea Ltd. can be had from the Regional office, at Munnar. 

 

Trekking: Tourists are allowed to go on upto Anamudi. The permitting authority is the Wildlife Warden, Idukki Division, Painavu Tel: +91 - 4865 - 30487. 

 

Cycling: The District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC) Idukki, provides cycling facilities at Munnar. 

 

Getting there: Munnar is at a driving distance of nearly 142 km from Kottayam town. 

 

Nearest railway station : Kottayam about 142 km. 

 

Nearest airports : Cochin International Airport about 130 km away; Madurai in neighbouring Tamilnadu State, about 142 km away. 

Rain in Kerala

Kerala is blessed with plentiful rain, 54% to 85% of which is contributed by the monsoons. Monsoons bring to Kerala two rainy seasons-the southwest monsoon or the Edavappathi, bringing rains during June-September, and the north east monsoon or the Thulavarsham during October to December. 

 

Kerala is directly exposed to the southwest monsoon but also receives rain from the reverse (northeast) monsoon. Rainfall averages about 118 inches (3,000 millimetres) annually statewide, with some slopes receiving more than 200 inches. 

 

The north east monsoon season begins from the middle of October and lasts upto the end of February, though the rain associated with it ceases by December. The total annual rainfall in the state varies from 380 cms over the extreme northern parts to about 180 cms to the south. 

 

The amount of rainfall decreases towards the south almost in proportion with the decrease in altitude of the Western Ghats. July receives the maximum rainfall with all meterological centres recording about 25 rainy days. 

Coorg, The Scotland of India

252 kms from Bangalore and 1525 m above sea level lies Madikeri, the district headquarters of Kodagu. Coorg or Kodagu (originally called Kodaimalenadu) means 'dense forest on steep hill'. Dubbed as the Scotland of India, this town has a lot to offer to the tourist. Misty hills, lush forest, acres and acres of tea and coffee plantation, orange groves, undulating streets and breathtaking views are what make Madikeri an unforgettable holiday destination.

Coorg is on the Western Ghats. Set amidst verdant valleys, imposing mountains and teak wood forests, this is one of the most beautiful hill stations you can visit. It lies on Karnataka's southwestern end, covering an area of 4,102 sq km.The river Cauvery originates here at Talacauvery and is worshipped by the locals.

Coorg is an ideal place for outdoor activities, food and shopping!

Trekking: Coorg has many verdant trekking routes in the midst of forests and hills, and it's best to go in the months from October to February. Some of the known trails are in the hills of Brahmagiri, where you could trek your way to the Irrupa Falls. You could also consider trekking to Pushpagiri, the second higest peak of Kodagu and Tadiandamol (the highest peak).

Golf: Avid golffers can tee off at the 9-hole course of Virajpet.

Angling: Valanoor is the backwater of the river Cauvery. It draws fishing lovers from all over India. You can try and catch the famous mahaseer and the best season is from October to May.

White Water Rafting: There are few good camps around Coorg that offer rafting down the Cauvery river. For some fast paced action, visit the Upper Barapole River to the south of Coorg in Brahmagiri. The best time for rafting is from mid-June to mid-September.

Food: Coorgi cuisine is famous and unique, especially for non-vegetarians as it is based on game meats, pork and other delicious ingredients. Popular dishes are pandhi (pork), koli (chicken) and yarchi (lamb) spiced with pepper, kokum, bamboo shoot, red chilly, bembla curry, kadumbuttu, noolputu, voti and excellent coffee.

Shopping: Some of the popular items to buy are coffee, honey, spices, cardamom, pepper, pineapple papads and oranges ( season). Coorgi silk saree are also very famous and they have a different style of wearing them. 

Fairs & Festivals: Schedule your visit to coincie with one of the colorful festivals of the region. The festivals of the Kodava community are largely around agriculture military activities. 

The 'Festival of Arms - Keilpoldu' is held in the months of June to September. During this festival the weapons are polished and worshipped before resuse.

Cauvery Shankaramana is based around the river Cauver is held in October. 

The harvest festival 'Puthar' is celebrated in November or December. The festival is accompanied by folks songs and dances, performed by the different villagers at their temples. 

 

Essentials

Getting There

Closest Airport: Bangalore (260 km), Mangalore (135 km)

Closest Railway Station: Mysore (146 km)

Road: The Mysore - Mangalore highway (NH48) passes through Kodagu. The district headquarters Madikeri (Mercara), is 260 km from Bangalore and 120 km from Mysore. The distance from Mangalore is 136 km and from Cannanore and Tellicherry, it is about 115 km. There are regular buses plying from these places to Madikeri.

 

Co-ordinates: 12.25 N, 75.44 E

 

Best Time To Visit: April to November

Kerala Beaches

Kerala beaches are known for its exquisite beauty, imposing surroundings and serene environments. Kerala beaches are prime tourist destinations in Kerala. These beaches are known for Ayurvedic massage parlors and traditional Kerala style cuisines. Mouth watering sea foods are available in these beaches. The beaches in Kerala are attractive with swaying leaves of coconut trees lined up in the coastal lines. 

Important Kerala beaches are Kovalam, Kappad, Marari, Varkala, Chawaram, Beypore, Alleppey, Cherai and Bakal beach. All these beaches have many infrastructure facilities for entertaining stay and vacation experiences. All these beaches are suitable for many water sports activities, especially swimming. 

 

Guruvayur Temple

Introduction 
Guruvayur, aptly called the Dwarka of the South, is one of the most significant pilgrimage centers in India. The idol of the famous Sri Krishna Temple here is said to have been worshipped by Lord Brahma himself. Everyday, endless waves of men, women and children pour in for darshan (audience) of Lord Guruvayur (Lord Krishna). Besides pilgrims and tourists, brides and grooms with hundreds of guests flock here daily to get their weddings solemnized. 
The Guruvayur Temple is unique, as it is not built in the typical South Indian style of temple architecture. For example, its architecture is not massive or grand but simple in keeping with the style of Kerala houses. Its four gateways lead to the main gopuram (where the idol is installed), protected by a slopping terracotta roof made of Mangalore tiles. Again, in true Kerala style, the temple owns 36 mighty elephants that live at Punnathur Fort, 4 km north of the temple. 
History 
According to the Narada Purana, Brahma Himself was installed here. Serpents are mythically related to the famous Guruvayur temple. There is the myth that at the end of the Dwapara Yuga, the heir of the Pandavas, Parikshit, died bitten by Takshaka, the king of serpent. It was because of a curse by the son of a sage. Parakshit's son, Janamejaya, vowed to take revenge and started a sarpa yagna (snake sacrifice). Fearful of his certain death, Takshaka pleaded with Indra to save him. Indra sent Brihaspati, who requested Janamejaya to stop his yagna and Janamejaya yielded. However, he was soon afflicted by a virulent form of leprosy. Then sage Athreya asked him to take refuge in the temple of Guruvayur and worship Lord Krishna. 
It is believed that King Sutapas and his wife, being childless, worshipped Lord Brahma who handed them the idol now installed at Guruvayur to worship. Eventually, Lord Vishnu appeared in His entire splendor and promised to be born as their child. 
Lord Krishna was born as their son. After He left the earth for his heavenly abode, the holy port city of Dwarka was submerged. Guru, the preceptor of the gods and his disciple, Vayu, God of Winds, saved the idol. After a long quest for an appropriate site, they entered Kerala and met Parasurama, the legendary creator of Kerala. He led them to a beautiful lake full of lotuses, the present tank, Rudratirtha, beside which Shiva and Parvati waited to welcome them. The idol was duly installed by all of them. The temple and the place came to be known as Guruvayur, a reverential and semantic reference to the sponsors, Guru and Vayu. 

Tourist Attractions 
Kaladi is an important pilgrimage center since it was the birthplace of Sri Adi Shankaracharya, one of India's foremost philosopher-saints. He preached the monistic or advaita philosophy. He played a major role in saving the Hindu religion from the ritualistic and superstitious state to which it had degenerated. 
Sri Shankaracharya's life has been marked by several miraculous exploits. He is said to have diverted the course of the River Periyar, which was 1½ km away from his house so that his aged mother could have her daily bath in the river without having to walk the distance. Even today, one can see an uncharacteristic turn in the river towards the Sringeri Math believed to be the site of Shankara's house. The shrine is situated on the right bank of the river and is a large partly open structure. There are two major shrines: one is dedicated to Sri Shankar acharya and the other to Goddess Saradamba, guardian deity of Sringeri. 
The name Thrissur is derived from Tiru-Shiva-Perur meaning 'the town with the name of Lord Shiva'. The reigning deity, Lord Shiva, resides in the Vadakkunath Kshetram Temple, on a hillock right in the center of the city. 
Punnathur Kotta, 4 km away, is an ancient fort that houses 40 elephants. 
Chavakkad,, 3 km away, has a pleasant beach and mausoleum of Haridross Kuttee, lieutenant of Haider Ali of Mysore. 
Palayur, a kilometer away from Chavakkad, is the site of an ancient church believed to have been found by St. Thomas, the apostle. 

Fairs & festivals 
The famous Pooram Festival (April/May) is celebrated at the Vaddakkunnath Temple. There are nightlong fireworks and a magnificent elephant procession. Shivratri (in March/April) is also celebrated with great fanfare. During Onam, the harvest festival (August/September), the entire state wears a festive look. 

How to reach 
BY AIR - The nearest airport is Kochi, 90 km away. 
BY RAIL - Thrissur, just 29 km away, is the nearest railway station. 
BY ROAD - Several state-owned and private buses as well as taxis regularly ply between Thrissur and Guruvayur. Bus connections are also available to all the important towns of Kerala as well as neighboring Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. 

Where to Stay 
We offer excellent accommodation facilities in and around Guruvayur. 

Guruvayur Temple

. Introduction 
Guruvayur, aptly called the Dwarka of the South, is one of the most significant pilgrimage centers in India. The idol of the famous Sri Krishna Temple here is said to have been worshipped by Lord Brahma himself. Everyday, endless waves of men, women and children pour in for darshan (audience) of Lord Guruvayur (Lord Krishna). Besides pilgrims and tourists, brides and grooms with hundreds of guests flock here daily to get their weddings solemnized. 
The Guruvayur Temple is unique, as it is not built in the typical South Indian style of temple architecture. For example, its architecture is not massive or grand but simple in keeping with the style of Kerala houses. Its four gateways lead to the main gopuram (where the idol is installed), protected by a slopping terracotta roof made of Mangalore tiles. Again, in true Kerala style, the temple owns 36 mighty elephants that live at Punnathur Fort, 4 km north of the temple. 
History 
According to the Narada Purana, Brahma Himself was installed here. Serpents are mythically related to the famous Guruvayur temple. There is the myth that at the end of the Dwapara Yuga, the heir of the Pandavas, Parikshit, died bitten by Takshaka, the king of serpent. It was because of a curse by the son of a sage. Parakshit's son, Janamejaya, vowed to take revenge and started a sarpa yagna (snake sacrifice). Fearful of his certain death, Takshaka pleaded with Indra to save him. Indra sent Brihaspati, who requested Janamejaya to stop his yagna and Janamejaya yielded. However, he was soon afflicted by a virulent form of leprosy. Then sage Athreya asked him to take refuge in the temple of Guruvayur and worship Lord Krishna. 
It is believed that King Sutapas and his wife, being childless, worshipped Lord Brahma who handed them the idol now installed at Guruvayur to worship. Eventually, Lord Vishnu appeared in His entire splendor and promised to be born as their child. 
Lord Krishna was born as their son. After He left the earth for his heavenly abode, the holy port city of Dwarka was submerged. Guru, the preceptor of the gods and his disciple, Vayu, God of Winds, saved the idol. After a long quest for an appropriate site, they entered Kerala and met Parasurama, the legendary creator of Kerala. He led them to a beautiful lake full of lotuses, the present tank, Rudratirtha, beside which Shiva and Parvati waited to welcome them. The idol was duly installed by all of them. The temple and the place came to be known as Guruvayur, a reverential and semantic reference to the sponsors, Guru and Vayu. 

Tourist Attractions 
Kaladi is an important pilgrimage center since it was the birthplace of Sri Adi Shankaracharya, one of India's foremost philosopher-saints. He preached the monistic or advaita philosophy. He played a major role in saving the Hindu religion from the ritualistic and superstitious state to which it had degenerated. 
Sri Shankaracharya's life has been marked by several miraculous exploits. He is said to have diverted the course of the River Periyar, which was 1½ km away from his house so that his aged mother could have her daily bath in the river without having to walk the distance. Even today, one can see an uncharacteristic turn in the river towards the Sringeri Math believed to be the site of Shankara's house. The shrine is situated on the right bank of the river and is a large partly open structure. There are two major shrines: one is dedicated to Sri Shankar acharya and the other to Goddess Saradamba, guardian deity of Sringeri. 
The name Thrissur is derived from Tiru-Shiva-Perur meaning 'the town with the name of Lord Shiva'. The reigning deity, Lord Shiva, resides in the Vadakkunath Kshetram Temple, on a hillock right in the center of the city. 
Punnathur Kotta, 4 km away, is an ancient fort that houses 40 elephants. 
Chavakkad,, 3 km away, has a pleasant beach and mausoleum of Haridross Kuttee, lieutenant of Haider Ali of Mysore. 
Palayur, a kilometer away from Chavakkad, is the site of an ancient church believed to have been found by St. Thomas, the apostle. 

Fairs & festivals 
The famous Pooram Festival (April/May) is celebrated at the Vaddakkunnath Temple. There are nightlong fireworks and a magnificent elephant procession. Shivratri (in March/April) is also celebrated with great fanfare. During Onam, the harvest festival (August/September), the entire state wears a festive look. 

How to reach 
BY AIR - The nearest airport is Kochi, 90 km away. 
BY RAIL - Thrissur, just 29 km away, is the nearest railway station. 
BY ROAD - Several state-owned and private buses as well as taxis regularly ply between Thrissur and Guruvayur. Bus connections are also available to all the important towns of Kerala as well as neighboring Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. 

Where to Stay 
We offer excellent accommodation facilities in and around Guruvayur. 

Guruvayur Temple

Introduction 
Guruvayur, aptly called the Dwarka of the South, is one of the most significant pilgrimage centers in India. The idol of the famous Sri Krishna Temple here is said to have been worshipped by Lord Brahma himself. Everyday, endless waves of men, women and children pour in for darshan (audience) of Lord Guruvayur (Lord Krishna). Besides pilgrims and tourists, brides and grooms with hundreds of guests flock here daily to get their weddings solemnized. 
The Guruvayur Temple is unique, as it is not built in the typical South Indian style of temple architecture. For example, its architecture is not massive or grand but simple in keeping with the style of Kerala houses. Its four gateways lead to the main gopuram (where the idol is installed), protected by a slopping terracotta roof made of Mangalore tiles. Again, in true Kerala style, the temple owns 36 mighty elephants that live at Punnathur Fort, 4 km north of the temple. 
History 
According to the Narada Purana, Brahma Himself was installed here. Serpents are mythically related to the famous Guruvayur temple. There is the myth that at the end of the Dwapara Yuga, the heir of the Pandavas, Parikshit, died bitten by Takshaka, the king of serpent. It was because of a curse by the son of a sage. Parakshit's son, Janamejaya, vowed to take revenge and started a sarpa yagna (snake sacrifice). Fearful of his certain death, Takshaka pleaded with Indra to save him. Indra sent Brihaspati, who requested Janamejaya to stop his yagna and Janamejaya yielded. However, he was soon afflicted by a virulent form of leprosy. Then sage Athreya asked him to take refuge in the temple of Guruvayur and worship Lord Krishna. 
It is believed that King Sutapas and his wife, being childless, worshipped Lord Brahma who handed them the idol now installed at Guruvayur to worship. Eventually, Lord Vishnu appeared in His entire splendor and promised to be born as their child. 
Lord Krishna was born as their son. After He left the earth for his heavenly abode, the holy port city of Dwarka was submerged. Guru, the preceptor of the gods and his disciple, Vayu, God of Winds, saved the idol. After a long quest for an appropriate site, they entered Kerala and met Parasurama, the legendary creator of Kerala. He led them to a beautiful lake full of lotuses, the present tank, Rudratirtha, beside which Shiva and Parvati waited to welcome them. The idol was duly installed by all of them. The temple and the place came to be known as Guruvayur, a reverential and semantic reference to the sponsors, Guru and Vayu. 

Tourist Attractions 
Kaladi is an important pilgrimage center since it was the birthplace of Sri Adi Shankaracharya, one of India's foremost philosopher-saints. He preached the monistic or advaita philosophy. He played a major role in saving the Hindu religion from the ritualistic and superstitious state to which it had degenerated. 
Sri Shankaracharya's life has been marked by several miraculous exploits. He is said to have diverted the course of the River Periyar, which was 1½ km away from his house so that his aged mother could have her daily bath in the river without having to walk the distance. Even today, one can see an uncharacteristic turn in the river towards the Sringeri Math believed to be the site of Shankara's house. The shrine is situated on the right bank of the river and is a large partly open structure. There are two major shrines: one is dedicated to Sri Shankar acharya and the other to Goddess Saradamba, guardian deity of Sringeri. 
The name Thrissur is derived from Tiru-Shiva-Perur meaning 'the town with the name of Lord Shiva'. The reigning deity, Lord Shiva, resides in the Vadakkunath Kshetram Temple, on a hillock right in the center of the city. 
Punnathur Kotta, 4 km away, is an ancient fort that houses 40 elephants. 
Chavakkad,, 3 km away, has a pleasant beach and mausoleum of Haridross Kuttee, lieutenant of Haider Ali of Mysore. 
Palayur, a kilometer away from Chavakkad, is the site of an ancient church believed to have been found by St. Thomas, the apostle. 

Fairs & festivals 
The famous Pooram Festival (April/May) is celebrated at the Vaddakkunnath Temple. There are nightlong fireworks and a magnificent elephant procession. Shivratri (in March/April) is also celebrated with great fanfare. During Onam, the harvest festival (August/September), the entire state wears a festive look. 

How to reach 
BY AIR - The nearest airport is Kochi, 90 km away. 
BY RAIL - Thrissur, just 29 km away, is the nearest railway station. 
BY ROAD - Several state-owned and private buses as well as taxis regularly ply between Thrissur and Guruvayur. Bus connections are also available to all the important towns of Kerala as well as neighboring Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. 

Where to Stay 
We offer excellent accommodation facilities in and around Guruvayur. 

Wayanad Monsoon Carnival-2010

The Wayanadan Monsoon is back. 
And again, it is time for splashing in the rains.When clouds dance in the skies, Monsoon winds blow from the seas, Gentle woods start dancing to rainy tunes, And columns of mist start fly down, Down, from heavens to meadows, Wayanad Tourism Organisation (WTO) has announced the second edition of Wayanad Monsoon Fest—

<b>Wayanad Carnival: Splash 2010</b>
The three-day carnival would begin on July 9. 
The first edition of the carnival in 2009 had proved in adorning the international tourism calendar with WTO signature. 
The rain lovers across the globe gathered in this abode of greenery, to celebrate the rain carnival. They revelled in rain, enjoyed the mud football, amazed in the charm of classical art-forms and embarrassed by the rustic feel of agrarian games.

Wayanad is one of the fastest growing tourism destinations in Kerala, a dream destination in the domestic tourism circuit. For a discerning traveller the jungle district is also acclaimed as one of the best bio-diversity destination.

The Wayanad monsoon carnival had already brought the attention of the ‘global tourism’ in to the monsoon rains of the green spot -Wayanad!. 

Here the welcoming mist started caressing mountain cliffs, dales, falls and leaves, And farmers trot back to nests from fields to take a break from the toil, and to receive the guests, And when sky bless earth with eternal love of life, It is time to pack your bags to Wayanad, where the jungle meets the country–the crown on ‘God’s Own Country’, Kerala to celebrate the festival of rains. 

Nehru Trophy Boat Race Alappuzha 2010

The Nehru Boat Race is Kerala's most looked forward to sporting event, and attended by participants and tourists from across the state's borders. Held at Punnamada Lake in Alappuzha on the second Saturday of August every year, the event took shape after such an affair was organised in honour of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru on his visit to Kerala in 1952. Prime Minister Nehru enjoyed the thrill of being part of the snake-boat race, and announced a rolling trophy to the winner.

The snake boat or 'chundan vallam' ploughs through the lake's waters, gaily decorated with flags and silk parasols. Traditionally, these snake boats were used in battle and measure between 60 to 65 metres. The snake-shaped boat has the capacity to carry more than a hundred passengers.

During the race, each snake boat has 95 oarsmen, five 'amarakkar' or controllers, and ten 'nilakkar' or cheerleaders. Vanchipattu, or songs with very catchy beats are sung by about ten singers on board, keep the boatmen's spirits high. These beats have devotional and mythological themes.

Apart from the snake boats, other country boats like the Iruttukuthy, Vaipu and Churulan also participate in the race. The Iruttukuthy boat is designed primarily for night transportation and speed. The Vaipu was designed as a service boat for other boats at war, with one end higher than the other, and a capacity of 40-45 persons only. The Churulan has a similar capacity, but stands out because of its circular shape.

The 4850 ft long Boat Race invites participation from women and children in equal measure. Preparations for the event start months in advance, commencing with lubrication of the vessel with sardine oil. Practice sessions for the participants begin months ahead, who also undertake certain vows before taking over the oars.

About Ayurveda

Ayurvedic medicine is an ancient, highly comprehensive system of medicine based on a holistic approach rooted in ancient Indian culture. 
We can find historical evidence of Ayurveda in the ancient books of wisdom known as the Vedas. In the Rig Veda, over 60 preparations were mentioned that could be used to assist an individual in overcoming various ailments. The Rig Veda was written over 6,000 years ago, but really, Ayurveda has been around even longer than that. 
Most of the formal systems of Ayurveda were codified in two texts, the Charaka Samhita and the Sushruta Samhita around 600 BC. 

According to Charaka, ""The three-body, mind and soul - are like a tripod, the world stands by their combination; in them everything abides. It is the subject matter of ayurveda for which the teachings of ayurveda have been revealed." (1.46-47, Charaka Samhita) 

Facts and Figures - State : Kerala, Location : Munnar

Munnar is situated in the Eastern part of the state of Kerala, 1600 m above sea level. This hill station was once the summer resort of the erstwhile British government in South India. 

Climate : The minimum temperatures during winters can get as low as 0 degree Celsius. The maximum of 25 degree Celsius is reached during summer. 

Average Annual rainfall : 110 inches 

Languages spoken: Malayalam, Tamil, Hindi and English. 

Best time to visit : August to March.

India Wildlife – A Perfect Destination Who Love Adventure

When it comes to meeting the desire of tourists while visiting India, the country has everything to offer ranging from rich culture, history and spirituality to magnificent sceneries and wildlife sanctuaries. For the people who are enthusiastic about the wildlife, an Indian wildlife tour is the best sought option to experience the adventure and the splendid beauty.

India has an affluent as well as assorted wildlife preserved in the varied sanctuaries all over the country. While visiting wildlife sanctuaries in India, tourists will get an opportunity to have a glance of distinguished species of mammals and birds. The royal tigers, numerous reptiles, amazing peacocks and giant elephants add to the beauty of the wildlife sanctuaries. With such diverse varieties to be seen here, it would not be wrong to say that Indian wildlife is becoming one of the most liked tourist destinations attracting numerous tourists from all over the world.

It is the perfect destination for the people who love the natural world of flora and fauna that exists in these sanctuaries along with the adventure lovers. Various Indian wildlife destinations offer the visitors to travel around and discover the jungle animals dwelling in their natural home.

The India wildlife tours can offer the tourist with some of the most adventurous trips where they can climb on the mountain or experience the rapids of rivers. They can have an amazing experience where they will have nothing except for water and a raft that is surrounded by the immaculate mountain fields and the forests along with the splendid waterfalls.

Hiking, trekking adventures and safaris are the best ways of exploring the wildlife areas. It is necessary and advisable to take a tour guide along while going in for hiking and an adventurous trip. There are millions of acres of wildlife reserves that are spread over in various national parks as well as wildlife sanctuaries with the most popular ones situated in Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan.

There are nearly five hundred sanctuaries and national parks that are a home to the variety of species of birds and animals. Some of the famous national parks and wildlife sanctuaries include the Ranthambore National Park, Kaziranga National Park, Kanha National Park, Corbett National Park and Bandhavgarh National Park. The tourists can enjoy the jungle safari to catch the view of the diverse species of birds and animals in their natural habitat.

Ranthambore is one of the most famous national parks that are spread all over the country. It is renowned for the huge population of the tigers that are found here. Safari gives the opportunity to the tourists a chance to watch the splendid tigers. Kaziranga National Park is also one of the well known parks that are situated all over India. It is well known for the distinct species of animals and birds. Out of the variety of species, most popularly found are the one horned rhinos. The other wildlife species that are found in this national park are the panthers, bears and tigers. There is also a wide range of birds that are found in the forests and also includes the migratory birds.

The India wildlife tours along with the Himalayan mountaineering adventure gives a chance to the tourists to experience the magical Himalayas along with visiting the country’s wildlife reserves.

International Kite Festival,Kappad

Known for its backwaters, coconut palms and lush greenery, Kerala is now set to woo more tourists by hosting a three-day international kite festival starting May 1 at Kappad beach in Kozhikode district.

Top kite-flyers from 10 countries, including India, will display their talents in flying kites at the Kappad beach for three days.There would be two participants from each country besides 10 teams from various parts of the country which would have five members each and the total number of participants would be 70.

A kite that would be flown there would cost anything from Rs.25,000 upwards. The materials for making kites would be supplied free of cost. Kites that are going to be flown would be of various sizes and shapes and they would be as big as a two-storey building.

Thrissur Pooram Festival Kerala

Thrissur Pooram (Festival) is called 'the pooram of all poorams'. It the biggest or the best of all poorams. The Thrissur pooram, is celebrated every year, on the pooram day, in the month of Medam (mid-April to mid-may) month as per the malayalam calendar. While all poorams have a huge influence on surrounding neighborhoods and towns, few other festivals require their active involvement. Thrissur town plays host, for 36 hours from the wee hours of the pooram day, to one of the most largest collection of people and elephants. The richly decorated elephant, as seen during the Thrissur pooram, is now globally recognized, and its association with Kerala. On the pooram day, fifty (50) or more elephants pass through the very center of Thrissur town, the Vadakkunnathan temple. The main features of the pooram festival are these decorated elephants with their nettipattam (decorative headdress), beautiful craftedthe kolam, decorative bells and ornaments etc. Add to this the panchavadyam, the rhythmic beating of the drum, and what would be a cacophony otherwise is turned into an organized but spontaneous symphony. The fireworks display in the early hours of the next day, rival shows held anywhere in the world, without even using many of the modern and newer pyrotechnics.

Cochin - 'Queen of the Arabian Sea'

Cochin is the commercial capital of Kerala. Cochin has one of the finest natural harbors in the world. Cochin was once the major center of commerce and trade with the British, Arabs, Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch etc.

Reaching Cochin Cochin is well connected by air and Rail from all major cities in India.

Places to see

St.Francis Church Built in 1503 by the Portuguese Franciscan Friars, it is India's oldest European Church. Vasco da Gama's remains were buried here in 1524 but later the remains were taken to Libson, Portugal.

Chinese Fishing Nets These huge cantilevered fishing nets were brought here by the traders from the court of Kublai Khan.

Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace) (Open 1000- 1700 hrs daily except on Fridays)

Built by the Portuguese in 1557 and presented to Raja Veera Kerala Varma of Kochi, the palace was renovated in 1663 by the Dutch. Mural Paintings depicting scenes from the Ramayana and the Mahabharata and some of the Puranic Hindu Legends are a real attraction. The palace also houses Dutch maps of old Kochi, royal palanquins, coronation robes of former Maharajas of Kochi as well as period furniture.

Jewish Synagogue
(Open 1000 - 1200 hrs and 1500 - 1700 hrs- closed on Saturdays and Jewish holidays)

Constructed in 1568, this is the oldest synagogue in the commonwealth. The Dutch rebuilt it in 1664. The main attractions include the hand painted, willow patterned floor tiles from Canton in China, a clock tower, Chandeliers, the great scrolls of the Old Testament, ancient scripts on copper plates etc.

Hill Palace Museum, Thripunithura
(Open 0900 - 1200 hrs and 1400 hrs to 1630 hrs- closed on Mondays)

10 Kms from Kochi, Hill palace was the official residence of the erstwhile Kochi royal family and was built in 1865.

Excursions from Koch

Kalady
The birthplace of Adi Sankaracharya, the great Advaita philosopher of the 8th century.

Kodanad
Kodanad is one the largest elephant training centers in South India. 

Athirapally Water Falls
The cascading falls are enriched with scenic beauty and is an ideal picnic spot.