Kerala:
Kerala... God's Own Country
The small state of Kerala, which represents just 1% of the land mass, is considered to be one of India's most beautiful state.
Kerala has emerged as the most acclaimed tourist destination of the country in the recent past. The landscape of Kerala varies from long golden beaches to cool hill stations and dense green jungle to bustling cities. Its unique feature is the 1,900km of palm fringed backwaters.
The people of Kerala are warm and friendly and interaction with them is often a highlight of a holiday to Kerala. Keralites have a strong culture and are fiercely proud of their state. Some of their art forms (eg Kathakali and Theyyam) and martial arts (kalaripayattu) are unique.
Munnar:
Munnar was the summer resort of the British Government in the south. The town is situated on the confluence of three mountain streams, Muthirappuzha ( Kannimalayar), Nallathanni and Kundala. Munnar has some of the biggest tea plantations in the world. This hill station more than 5000 feet above sea level. With its mist and flowers, small towns winding lanes, and comfortable holiday resorts makes Munnar worth a visit.
Thekaddy:
With its matchless scenic beauty and the facilities offered by the Periyar lake, Thekkady attracts a large number of tourists.
Wild animals seen here include elephants, bisons, sambar, monkeys and wild bear. Fortunate visitors can have a glimpse of the tigers foragaing in this area. However on sunny summer days one can see herds of wild elephants bathing in the lake.
Kumily Town located near the sanctuary offers some spice shops and Kashmiri Emporiums.
Because of the cool and comfortable climate this place is suitable for treks and long walks.
Kumarakom:
Kumarakom, the famous backwater tourist destination in Kerala is undoubtedly the most invigorating, fascinating paradise in Kerala. This rich green, sleepy little village of Kumarakom is located on the Vembanad lake amidst mangrove forests and coconut groves. Kumarakom is an enchanting picnic spot and provides activities like boating, fishing and sightseeing experiences that are truly exhilarating. A backwater ride by the country side gives a closer look at the rural way of livelihood. One can have the opportunity to see the fisherman at work.
The slender coconut palms standing here,its never ending paddy fields, meandering lagoons and backwaters, mangroves nesting birds of a hundred varieties can peacefully calm and invigorate your mind.
Cochin:
Kerala's major port, Cochin is a city of history and colour. Straddling both the Arabian Sea and the famous backwaters, its islands and promontories offer a fascinating spectacle. A major Kerala gateway, Cochin makes an ideal starting point or finale for your tour: from here you can travel easily into the hills, travel the backwaters or head north to Calicut. Between the modern Ernakulum District and historic Fort Cochin, and with superb harbour views - combines colonial elegance and modern comfort and makes the perfect base to explore this beautiful state.
Kovalam:
Kovalam is a small beach town located in the district of Thiruvanantpuram. Kovalam has three big adjacent crescent beaches. Today this tiny beach is the focus of a multi-million dollar business, drawing thousands of tourists for a week dose of ozone, UV and a refreshing Indian Experience.
Today Kovalam beach is known as the "Paradise of the South". Its scenic beauty and serenity is supplemented by the availability of excellent accommodation. It is warm and clean filled with the coconut trees and the white sandbed as the seabreeze gently plays with the waves. You can go shopping and you will find some ethnic handicrafts, jewelry and art on display.
