1. ABOUT TRIVANDRUM
The city gets its name from the word, Thiruvanathapuram, meaning the city of Anantha or the abode of the sacred SerpentAnantha 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 dedicated 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.

Trivandrum has good shopping areas and a variety of comfortable and reasonably priced hotels.

FESTIVALS
Onam is a 4-day national harvest festival in Kerala, which falls during August- September, when Snake Boat races are held mostly in connection with temple festivals of Kottayam - Arunmulla - Alleppey area ;and Vishu is the new year day which comes in March-April. Pooja Eduppu in October is connected with Vinayak Pooja.

BEST SEASON
The climate of Thiruvananthapuram is very moderate, not very hot nor very cold. The influence of sea and proximity to the equator affects the climate to a great extent. The warm weather and early monsoon leaves you with no option but to wear light cotton cloths. Best time to visit this place is between October & March.

2. ABOUT KOVALAM

Kerala Information Tourist Guide , A former fishing village, Kovalam is just 16 kms away from Trivandrum, Kerala's capital city. This enchanting strip of golden sands is laced with the rich greenery of coconut palms.
Kovalam is an evergreen and pleasant climatic beach resort. It is a dreamy place for tourists all over the world. Today Kovalam beach is known as the "Paradise of the South". With high rock promontory and a calm bay of blue waters, this beach paradise creates a unique aquarelle on moonlit nights. Kovalam was brought to the public eye by the Maharaja of Travancore.

Kovalam beach
On the Malabar coast along the Kerala shore line is a small village, called Kovalam. This sleepy town suddenly came on the tourist map when its fabulous beaches were discovered. Today Kovalam has become one of the most popular beach hangouts in India. Kovalam means a grove of coconut trees and truly the coconut trees along the beaches gives it a ravishing look.

The palm-fringed bays in secluded coconut groves, promises a relaxed stay. The boundless blue waters of the Arabian Sea and miles of white sands washed away by the surf at the feet of the stalwart palms and the rocky promontories, makes this beach paradise.

Temples
Padmanabhaswamy Temple
East Fort Ganapathy Temple
Pazhavangadi Bhagavathy Temple
Attukal Hanuman Temple
Vikas Bhavan Sree Parasurama Temple, Thiruvallam Janardhan Swamy Temple
Varkala Aruvipuram siva Temple
Neyyattinkara Sree Kanteswaram Temple

Churches
St.Joseph Church, Palayam
Christ Church, Paslayam LMS Church
Palayam Lourdes Church, Near PMG
Jn. Pentacostal Church

Mosques
Charachira Jama Masjid, Palayam
Jama Masjid, Beemapally Mosque
Thampanoor Hidayuthul Islam Madrasa
Moyuddin Mosque, Vizhinjam

3. ABOUT THEKKADY (PERIYAR)

Kerala Information Tourist Guide , Thekkady, is one of India's most fascinating natural wildlife sanctuaries, where you can watch wildlife at close range. The vegetation, the flora and fauna and the birds of Thekkady are uniquely rich, vast and varied that it does not bear semblance to any other wildlife sanctuaries in the world. Even a casual visitor to this place will not fail to observe the special ecological pattern of Thekkady.
Thekkady - The very sound of the name conjures up images of elephants, unending chains of hill and spice scented plantations. In the crisp, cool air of the Western Ghats you will experience the most enchanting holiday. With the animals of the wild and the simple mountain people. 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 opportunities for treks and mountain walks. The Thekkady sanctuary is one of the best in the country for watching and photographing wild life. Thekkady is on the border with state of Tamil Nadu , in fact just 5 kilometers from the border town of Kumily which is very well connected by bus to both Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Notable among the denizens of Periyar are the tigers, the majestic Asiatic wild elephants and the distinctive Nilgiri langur. Other animals include the wild boar, wild dog, bison, bear and leopards. Amongst the avifauna, the most profuse are herons, egrets, darters, kingfishers and the great Malabar grey hornbill. A cruise through the waters of Periyar lake around which the wild -life sanctuary is situated, offers a soul - stirring pleasant experience.

IN AND AROUND THEKKADY
The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (Entry : 0600 to 1800 hrs)
Lying close to the plantations, in the rich jungles of Periyar in Thekkady is one of the world's most fascinating natural wildlife reserves - the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Spread across 777 sq. km, of which 360 sq. km is thick evergreen forest, the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary was declared a Tiger Reserve in 1978. Noted for its geo-morphological diversity of wildlife and scenic beauty, the Reserve attracts visitors from all over the world. The splendid artificial lake formed by the Mullaperiyar Dam across the Periyar river adds to the charm of the park. This is the only sanctuary in India where you can have the unique experience of viewing wildlife at close quarters from the safety of a boat on the lake. The greatest attraction of Periyar remains the large herds of wild elephants that come down to the lake's edge.

The sanctuary watch towers
Kerala Information Tourist Guide, There are three watch towers for observing wild life - at Edappalayam and Manakkavala and Thannikudi. Reservations can be made at the Forest information Counter, Thekkady. Tel. : +91-486-322028.

Kumily (4 km from Thekkady)
This plantation town, closely associated with Thekkady, is situated on the outskirts of the Periyar Sanctuary. It is an important shopping centre and spice trade centre, the main bus station and most of the medium range accommodation in the Periyar region is in Kumily.

Murikkady (5 km from Thekkady)
Washed in fresh spice scented air, Murikkady is a panorama of cardamom, coffee and pepper plantations.

Pandikuzhi ( 5 km from Kumily)
This picturesque place is cradled between Chellarkovil and the Tamil Nadu State border is a popular picnic spot. Pandikuzhi offers great opportunities for trekking and is a photographer's delight.

Mangala Devi Temple ( 15 km from Thekkady)
This ancient temple is hidden in the dense woods at the top of a peak 1337 M above sea level. The temple is built in the traditional Kerala style of architecture. Visitors are allowed here only on the Chithra Pournami festival day. The peak commands a panoramic view of the other side of the ghats and the vast plains of Tamil Nadu. Permission to visit the area can be obtained from the Wildlife Warden at Thekkady. Tel. : 91-486-322027.

Chellarkovil ( 15 km from Kumily)
This sleepy little village with its spectacular view of the plains (and cascading waterfalls during the monsoons) is a feast for your eyes. The village slopes down to the famous coconut groves of Kumbam in neighbouring Tamil Nadu.

Vandiperiyar ( 18 km from Thekkady)
The river Periyar flowing through the centre of this town nourishes its vast tea, coffee and pepper plantations. A major trade centre, Vandiperiyar is also home to a number of tea factories. The Government Agriculture Farm and Flower Gardens have a delightful array of rose plants, orchids and anthurium.

Vandanmedu ( 25 km from Kumily)
This is one of the world's largest auction centres for Cardamom. A walk through the sprawling cardamom plantations of Vandanmedu is a pleasant experience.

Pullumedu ( 43 km from Thekkady, 26 km from Periyar)
The winding journey to this hill town, along the Periyar river, offers a stunning view of the rolling hills draped in lush greenery. Velvet lawns, rare flora and fauna add to the beauty of Pullumedu which can be accessed from a jeep. The famous Sree Ayyappa temple at Sabarimala and the Makara Joythi illuminations at the shrine are visible from here. Since it is part of the restricted forest zone, special permission to visit Pullumedu has to be obtained from the Wildlife Preservation Officer, Thekkady Tel.+ 91-486-322027 or The Range Officer, Vallakkadavu Tel. :+ 91-486-352515.

HOW TO REACH
Nearest Airports
Madurai 140 km
Kochi (Cochin) 190 km
Thiruvananthapuram 265 km
Kozhikode 315 km
Chennai 570 km

Nearest Railheads
Teni 60 km
Kottayam 114 km
Changanassery 114 km
Madurai 140 km

By Road There are frequent buses from Kumily (4 km away) to various tourist centres.
The drive to Thekkady is enchanting as the road winds through tranquill countryside, rich plantations & thick jungles. The sanctuary, 60 km from Idukki, 190 km from Cochin and 114 kms away from Kottayam is open throughout the year , but the best season for a visit is from September to March. The sanctuary is centered around the large (24 sq km) artificial lake formed by a dam across the Periyar river. The main attraction is a boat trip over this man-made lake of Thekkady. The forest department arranges elephant rides and trekking inside the sanctuary.

4. ABOUT KUMARAKOM

The enchanting backwater destination of Kumarakom is a small village that is a cluster of little islands on the Vembanad Lake in Kerela.
Kumarkom strengthens Kerala’s reputation for being God’s own country with its unbelievably beautiful mangrove forests, coconut groves and emerald green paddy fields interspersed with enchanting waterways and canals adorned with while lillies. It is part of the Kuttanad region, and the bird sanctuary here spread across 14 acres of any ornithologist's paradise.

This enchanting backwater destination offers visitors many leisure options. From wandering into the depths of its wildlife sanctuary to cruising down the back waters and fishing, Kumarkom is perfect for a lazy and laid back holiday.
The best way to watch the birds of the Kumarakom sanctuary is a boat trip round the islands, as hundreds of swaying verdant coconut palms lining the rivers lean to brush the tops of your heads. Kumarkom is an example of nature at her bountiful best in the fragrant flowers, the riot of multi coloured birds, the surrounding greenry and the clear waters.

KUMARAKOM TOURIST ATTRACTIONS

The Vembanad Lake
The Vembanad Lake is one of the largest fresh water lakes in Asia. It flows through the verdant lands of Kerala and offers one of the best backwater cruises. Most of the flora and fauna in this region flourishes around this supply of fresh water. The lake also acts as a balancing tank against floods, and its wooded banks, temptingly invite a visitor to explore more. The boats that ply on the lake vary from the large stitched-hull, cargo carriers with domed mat-roofs to houseboats.

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
A water-bird sanctuary lies at the edge of the grounds of an old estate where a profusion of all kinds of birds can be observed. Domestic birds such as cuckoo, wild duck, egrets, darters, herons, teal, and water fowl can be seen in abundance here, as much as can the Siberian storks which migrate to this area each year.

Kottayam
Kumarakom is situated 15 km from Kottayam on the Vembanad lake. This little backwater town is well known for its rubber plantations. Christianity is the dominant religion here and it is dotted with pretty old churches. Rejuvenating ayurvedic massages are available here. Thekkady, a major wildlife center lies 114 km from here, and Sabarimala, a Hindu pilgrim center is another 134 km from Kottayam.

Alappuzha
The charmingly unkept coastal town of Alappuzha, formerly called Alleppey, lies close by. With its labyrinth of canals, bridges, silver beaches, and cheerful people it makes for a memorable holiday. Alappuzha is a never-ending panorama of lush green paddy fields, towering coconut trees, and long canals that offers enjoyable boat cruises to Kollam along the scenic Vembanad Lake.

ACTIVITIES
Kumarakom is best described as a picturesque clean village like most places in Kerala. It has lately become a preferred tourist destination. Boat races, houseboat cruise, canoeing and fishing are some of the main attractions of this simple place. The huge houseboats, traditionally known as the Kettuvalloms, are complete with living rooms, toilets, kitchen, balcony for angling and it is possible to live on them for days together for a truly unique experience. These Kettuvalloms are actually remodelled cargo barges made of wooden planks joined together by rope only, without using nails at all.
Kumarakom lies in the region of Kuttanad, which is the rice bowl of Kerala. Here farming is done below sea level. The peace and quiet, biting fresh air and unspoiled life style of the simple people of Kumarkom are a unique and rejuvenating experience that surpasses any modern entertainment activity or pastime.

5. ABOUT MUNNAR

Munnar is situated at the confluence of three mountain streams namely Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala. This hill station, located at an altitude of 1600 m above sea level, 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. Among the exotic flora found in the forests and grasslands is the 'Neelakurinji'.

This flower which bathes the hills in blue every twelve years will bloom next in 2006 AD. Munnar also has the highest peak in south India, Anamudi, which towers over 2695 m. Anamudi is an ideal spot for trekking.

PRIME ATTRACTIONS

Mattupetti (13 km from Munnar)
Situated at a height of 1700 m, Mattupetti is famous for its highly specialised dairy farm, the Indo-swiss live stock project. Over 100 varieties of high yielding cattle are reared here. Visitors are allowed into three of the eleven cattle sheds at the farm.

The Mattupetti Lake and dam, just a short distance from the farm, is a very beautiful picnic spot. The sprawling Kundala tea plantations and the Kundala lake are other attractions in the vicinity. DTPC Idukki provides boating facilities on the Mattupetty Dam. Speed Launch and slow speed motor boats are available on hire.

Pothamedu (6 km from Munnar)
Pothamedu offers an excellent view of the tea, coffee and cardamom plantations in Munnar. The rolling hills, the lush mountain and the breathtaking scenery here is ideal for trekking and long mountain walks.

Pallivasal (8 km from Munnar)
This is the venue of the first Hydro Electric Project in Kerala and a place of immense scenic beauty.

Attukal (9 km from Munnar)
A panorama of waterfalls and rolling hills, Attukal, located between Munnar and Pallivasal, is a feast for the eyes. The place is also ideal for long treks.

Nyayamakad (10 km from Munnar)
Located between Munnar and Rajamala, Nyayamakad is a land of breathtaking waterfalls. The waters cascade down a hill from a height of about 1600 meters. The enchanting surroundings makes an excellent picnic spot and trekking point.

Chithirapuram (10 km from Munnar)
With its sleepy little cottages, bungalows, old playgrounds and courts, Chithirapuram still exudes an old world charm. Home of the Pallyvasal Hydel Power Project, this hill town is also famous for its picturesque tea plantations.

Lock Heart Gap (13 km from Munnar)
This is an ideal place for adventure tourism and trekking. The fresh mountain air, the mist-clad hills and panoramic view make it worthy of a visit.

Rajamala (15 km from Munnar)
The natural habitat of the Nilgiri Tahr,Rajamala is 2695 m above sea level. Half the world's population of the rare mountain goat or tahr, which is fast becoming extinct, is now found here.

The Nilgiri Tahr in Rajamala is now to be found in small herds found in Eravikulam-Rajamala region. The total number of Nilgiri Tahrs in Rajamala is estimated to be over 1300. Visitors are not allowed during the monsoon.

Echo Point (15 km from Munnar)
This scenic place gets its name from the natural echo phenomenon here. Echo point is on the way to Top Station from Munnar.

Eravikulam National Park (15 km from Munnar)
The 97 sq. kms park is situated in the Devikulam Taluk and is home to the Nilgiri Tahr. The Anamudi peak (2695 m) is located in the Southern region of the park. Originally established to protect the Nilgiri tahr (Nilgiri Ibex), the Eravikulam National Park is situated in the Devikulam Taluk of the Idukki District.

It was declared as a sanctuary in 1975. Considering the ecological, faunal, floral, geo-morphological and zoological significance, it was declared as a National park in 1978. It covers an area of 97 sq kms of rolling grasslands and high level sholas (evergreen forests).

The park is breathtakingly beautiful and is easily comparable to the best mountain ranges found anywhere in the world. The park is divided into 3 regions - the core area, the buffer area and the tourism area.

Visitors are allowed only to the tourism area, which is in the Rajamala region. The Nilgiri Tahr can be observed at close quarters here. Trekking facilities are available here. Tourists are allowed to go on foot up to Anamudi. This is also a place for adventure tourism.

Trekking Areas
Anamudi, Rajamala.

Power House or Chinnakanal Waterfalls (18 km from Munnar)
The waterfall on the way to Thekkady from Munnar cascades down a steep rock 2000 m above sea level. The spot is enriched with the scenic Western mountain ranges, and is an ideal place for a break on the way to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Thekkady.

Kundala (20 km from Munnar)
Kundala is a picturesque town on the way to Top Station. The Golf Course which belongs to Tata Tea Ltd. is located here. The Kundala artificial dam is another attraction. Aruvikkad Waterfall is also near Kundala.

EXCURSIONS Anayirangal (22 kms from Munnar)
It's a lush green carpet of tea plants. A trip on the splendid reservoir is an unforgettable experience. The Anayirangal dam is surrounded by Tata Tea plantations and evergreen forests. It is an ideal picnic spot.

Devikulam (7 kms from Munnar)
This idyllic hill station with its velvet lawns, exotic flora and fauna and the cool mountain air offers a rare experience to visitors. The Sita Devi Lake with its mineral waters and picturesque surroundings is a good picnic spot. The lake is also ideal for trout fishing.

Valara (10 kms from Adimali on the Kochi-Madurai highway)
Valara has a chain of waterfalls surrounded by thick green forests.

Marayoor (40 kms from Munnar)
This is the only place in Kerala that has a natural growth of sandalwood trees. The sandalwood factory of the forest department, the caves (muniyaras) with the murals and relics from the New stone age civilization and the children's park spread across a hectare of land under the canopy of a single banyan tree, are of great interest to tourists. Thoovanam waterfalls and Rajiv Gandhi National Park are also nearby.

HOW TO GET THERE
Air: Near by airports are at Kochi (130 kms) and Madurai (142 kms).
Rail: Nearest railway stations are at Kochi and Kottayam.
Road: The place is well connected by a well developed network of road transport.
Local transport: Local buses, cycles.

6. ABOUT COCHIN

Cochin, which is now known as Kochi is the commercial capital of Kerala. It is a place which is blended with historical places, palaces, forts, old churches, beaches, backwaters, snake boats races, Kathakali, museums and the convenience of a big city with towering buildings and business centers. With serene backwaters, beautiful lagoons, wooded isles and a magnificent landscape, Cochin is indeed the Queen of the Arabian Sea.

Cochin is a world of palm trees and breaking waves at the south -eastern tip of the Indian peninsula. With serene backwaters, beautiful lagoons, wooded isles and a magnificent landscape, setting sun on the beaches of Cochin, Cochin is indeed the Queen of the Arabian Sea.

Best Season
The climate is moderate throughout the year and the temperature ranges from a minimum of 22.5oc to a maximum of 35oc in the summer and from a minimum of 20oc to a maximum of 32oc in the winter. The ideal season of visit is between September and May. The city is pretty clean with the local authorities doing a good job in maintaining it in that way.

Being situated very close to the sea, Kochi has a moderate climate. Heavy showers are experienced during the months June, July and August due to the South-West Monsoon. The North-East Monsoon brings light rainfall during the months September, October, November and December. December to February is pretty cool. The annual rainfall is about 310 cm . In summer the temperature rises to a maximum of 35 ºC while in winter it is around 25 ºC .

7. ABOUT 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". These large network of canals provide Alleppey its lifeline. Alleppey was one of the busiest centers of trade in the past with one of the best known ports along the malabar coast. Even today it retains its charm as the centre for Coir carpet industries and prawn farming. Alleppey the ideal headquarters for backwater tourism as well as for visits to the lovely church filled town of Kottayam, and the town of Aranmula, famous for its historic Aranmula Snake Boat Race which is an annual event.