VAIKOM VILLAGE TOUR, A CROWD PULLER The village tour and the backwater cruise in and around Vaikom in Kottayam district has been attracting numerous travelers from within and outside the country. An assortment of attractive holiday packages are available at cost effective rates, catering to varied budgets, offering value for money and friendly services. Titled Gramam package, the village backwater cruise charts out a one-day schedule consisting of a leisurely kettuvallam journey that includes authentic naadan cuisine, local sightseeing, getting a feel of the traditional activities like coir weaving, pot making, khadi and other industries. The pleasant village scenes of cool coconut palm groves, narrow rivulets reflecting the sunlight, ducks merrily paddling by, women engaged in fishing and basket weaving, can be enjoyed during the ride. The whiff of the gentle breeze blowing and the overall peace and quiet of the pollution-free rustic setting is sure to soothen the nerves. Vaikom, considered to be the oldest township in the south, is situated at a distance of about 30 km from Kochi, towards the north-western part of the district. Lake Vembanad flows around the town, making it a favourite backwater destination in Kerala. Find more details on eco-tourism at kumbalangi.kerala.com