Kerala.Com Travel Division

2011-03-09T15:24:00.003+05:30

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

2011-01-28T14:05:00.004+05:30

VALIYAPARAMBA, the ideal cruise destination:- Valiyaparamba is a small island about 30 km from Bekal in Kasaragod that is one of the most scenic backwater stretches in north Kerala. Situated in the Arabian Sea, it is an important fishing centre and one of the main tourist spots of the district. Fed by four rivers and dotted with numerous little islands, Valiyaparamba is a much-favoured backwater destination that offers enchanting boat cruises to its visitors. The island is roughly 16 km2 in size with a population of 10,000. The island's main sources of income are agriculture and fishing. Valiyaparamba is a hinterland separated from the mainland and is an hour’s drive from Bekal beach, one of the most enchanting beaches in the state. The Bekal fort which stands on a headland that runs into the sea offers a spectacular view of the surroundings. The National Waterway passes through the island of Valiyaparamba which has become a favourite destination of tourists availing houseboat cruises. Water transport through regular boat service can also be availed. Accommodation is available at Payyanur and Kanhangad. The nearest railway station is Cheruvathur, on the Kozhikode-Mangalore route, about 5 km from Valiyaparamba. As for road transport, NH 17 passes through Cheruvathur. The nearest airports are in Mangalore in Karnataka, at a distance of about 100 km and Karipur international airport in Kozhikode, about 150 km from Valiyaparamba. FOR A RELAXING VACATION:- Drive through the unspoilt district of Kasaragod, in the northern reaches of god's own country which has been handpicked by the National Geographic Traveler as one among the fifty must-see destinations in the world where you would find the most exotic places of stay. The Malabar region of northern Kerala is well known for its warmth and hospitality. There are theme-based resorts that tempt visitors with a range of gourmet delicacies and hideouts totally cutoff from the hustle and bustle of the city and plenty of village-oriented activities to be entertained with. There are all types of lodging including hotels, resorts, villas and homestays besides treetop huts and houseboats to suit the needs and budget of different categories. Whether you are planning a meeting, vacationing or just travelling to tourist destinations in North Malabar, Bekal and nearby places offer the finest in luxury as well as budget accommodation to guarantee travelers the most memorable stays. Know more about the land of forts by logging onto kasargod.net

2011-01-04T13:58:00.003+05:30

TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN AND AROUND PALAKKAD Palakkad, known as the granary of Kerala, is a land of hillocks, valleys, rivers, forests, wildlife, mountain streams, dams, farms and tribal settlements. The land of the palmyrah trees charms its visitors by offering a plethora of tourist attractions covering places of religious/historical/literary/social and environmental importance. The five hundred year-old Jain Temple with granite walls located at Jainmedu on the banks of river Kalpathy is a major tourist attraction. Built by a Jain king and dedicated to a sage, it houses the deities of Jwalamohini and Rishabhanathan. The Shiva Temple at Thiruvalathoor situated in the southern part of the district has a conical roof and whitewashed walls replete with oil lamps. It is said the woodwork and stone sculpture of the temple were completed overnight. The festival of Mahashivarathri is celebrated on a grand note at the premises. Vadakkanthara Temple can be visited on the way to the Jain Temple in Jainmedu. The presiding deity of Bhagawathy is believed to be an incarnation of Kannagi, the heroine of Tamil epic Silappadhikaram. An offering of fireworks is held regularly as a ritual outside the temple precincts. Vishwanathaswamy Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is located on the southern banks of river Kalpathy, about 3 km from Palakkad. This ancient temple built in 1425, is noted for the length of its flagpole which is decorated and made part of the grand celebration during the annual seven-day Chariot festival, still a huge crowd puller. The Gramam village of Palakkad comprises avenues of the typical agraharams or residences of their occupants namely Kerala iyer families, originally Thamizh Brahmins who had migrated from the neighbouring state and set up base here. This community still follows the unique custom of passing down the ancient vedas and sasthras verbally through generations. Tipu’s Fort otherwise known as Palakkad Fort, was built by Tipu’s father Hyder Ali but later on fell into the hands of the British and then the Zamorins in the 18th century. Presently it remains under the care of the Archaeological Survey of India and contains an auditorium, a museum and a children’s park. Nelliampathy is an exotic hill station about 54 km south of Palakkad and perched at a height of 4600 ft above sea level. This small green town is perfect to soak in the magical beauty of dense forests rich in wildlife as well as lush coffee, tea and orange plantations. Attapadi is a mountainous terrain consisting of streams, rivulets and forests. The valley is known for its tribal community comprising mainly irulas and mudugars. Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary nestled in the Anamali hill range, some 47 km away from Palakkad, is an excellent place to get a good sight of elephants, gaurs, chitals, sambhars, deer, Nilgiri langurs, wild dogs, leopards and tigers. There is also a dam here that offers pleasurable boating rides. The Silent Valley National Park is a serene and majestic eco-tourism locale frequented by nature enthusiasts from all over. Located on the Kundali Hills of the Western Ghats , 65 km north east of Palakkad, it lies uninhabited and untouched by the passage of time, continuing to preserve the innumerable rare flora and fauna found within the jungle area. Malampuzha, the popular picnic spot 14 km from Palakkad is famous for its wonderful landscaped garden with carpeted lawns, decorative plants, trees and blossoms of varied shapes and hues. The rose garden with over 100 species of roses to savour, is especially attractive. The snake park, a ropeway and a fantasy park besides the boathouse offering waterride facilities in the reservoir are additional attractions. The Valiya Angadi or Big Bazar shopping centre inside the city offers plenty of shopping options for shoppers viz. metal bells, thookku/peacock/nila vilakkus or lamps, traditional utensils, jewelleries, handicrafts, Tranvancore sarees, Kerala souvenirs and more. Gurumadom of Thunchath Ramaujan Ezhuthachan, considered as Father of Malayalam, is located near Chittur town on the banks of river Sokanashini. This monument houses some relics, manuscripts and other memorabilia that were used by the Guru. The site throngs with parents and infants for the initiation ceremony during Navarathri. For further info and images, look up the site palghat.net

2010-12-15T10:21:00.001+05:30

God’s own country is known for its rich mileu of art, culture, tradition and heritage that form part of the varied fairs and festivals which are celebrated by the cross section of communities in the State. Here is a list of the several social and religious festivals: Onam Onam is the most important and popular festival of Kerala. Onam is celebrated with a lot of fervour and gaiety. All malayalees, irrespective of their religion, celebrate Onam in spite of it being a Hindu festival. It falls in the malayalam month of Chingam (Aug-Sept). Onam is the harvest festival of Kerala. According to legend, Onam is celebrated to commemorate the homecoming of Mahabali, the king who ruled over Kerala in the age of plenty and was pushed down to the Patala by Lord Vishnu in the form of a young lad named Vamana. Vishu One of the important festivals of Kerala, Vishu is celebrated in the month of April, usually on the 14th every year. As per the traditional Malayalam calendar, it is the first day of the New Year. The main event of the Vishu celebration is the ‘Kani-kanal’. Coconuts, fruits, cereals and Konna flowers are placed in wide brass bowls to prepare the Kani. The elders in the family give money to the young ones and bless them. According to a local belief, if we owe you Kani, good luck will stay with you till the year end. Christmas Christmas is a major socio-religious festival in Kerala. Christians all over Kerala celebrate Christmas on 25, Dec. During Christmas eve and on the following day, holy mass is conducted in all the churches of Kerala. Singing of Christmas carols, setting up of Christmas tree, exchange of cards, gifts etc form an integral part of Christmas festivities in Kerala. Easter Easter is yet another festival of religious importance among the Christians in Kerala, which commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ on the third day following his crucifixion. During the celebrations, the community visit the church for midnight mass and prayers. Easter generally falls in the month of March-April. Bakrid Bakrid is a major festival among the Muslim community in Kerala commemorating the sacrifice of Ibrahim in obedience to God’s command. Muslims enjoy family reunions with relatives and friends and partake hearty feasts on Bakrid day. Id-ul-Fitr Idul-Fitr or Eid is celebrated after the conclusion of the Ramzan fast when Muslims give up all kinds of food and drink during the day and spend a major part of the night in prayer. Since Kerala houses a substantial population of Muslims, Eid is an important social and religious celebration in the state. Navaratri The Navaratri festival assumes religious significance among the Hindus of Kerala. Navaratri runs over nine days, the last three days being the most important. They are Durgashtami, Mahanavami and Vijayadasami respectively. On the night of Durgashtami, a ceremony known as ‘Poojavayppu’ is held. It involves decorating a room superbly, with illuminating lights, flower pots and idols neatly arranged over a multi-tiered platform raised at the centre of the hall. Musical and percussion instruments and other learning tools are also displayed at the venue. Lamps are lit and prayers are offered on all the three days, and all sorts of learning and transactions come to a standstill until the last day of Saraswathy Puja when the formal ritual of learning begins anew.

2010-11-03T10:44:00.002+05:30

Kerala’s own martial art, KALARIPAYATTU Kalaripayattu, the most ancient among martial arts, and believed to be the forerunner of all other martial art techniques like karate, kung-fu etc, has its origin in Kerala. This traditional system of the art and technique of self-defence is widely in vogue today and has earned universal recognition. A person trained in Kalaripayattu was supposed to risk even his life for causes considered noble in those days. Qualities like courage, valour and confidence embodied in an austere sense of discipline was instilled along with the training. It is a must for those who practise this art to first worship the presiding deity of the Kalari or Kalari Paradevatha. Gurukkal or the chief instructor of Kalari is held in high esteem by the disciples. Floral worship and prayers are offered before the spaces in the Kalari ring dedicated to the gods and goddesses of war and weapons before commencing the feat. Apart from enhanced physical abilities, concentration, dedication, bravery and fearlessness are achieved over the years through rigourous training in this martial art.

2010-10-06T14:58:00.004+05:30

Karkataka Chikitsa for Health & Rejuvenation Kerala’s friendly climate, natural abundance of forests, wealth of herbs and medicinal plants, and the cool extended monsoon season are best suited for ayurveda’s curative and restorative packages. Kerala is the only state in India which has perfected and still practises this traditional system of medicine which is based on the constitution and vital energies of the human body. Ayurveda aims to re-establish the equilibrium of the body and mind at all levels, to keep it wholesome and healthy. This is done through a strict regimen of diet, exercise and medicated treatment over a prescribed period. Traditionally, according to ayurvedic physicians, rejuvenation therapies have their best effects during the wet monsoon months, when the winds and the cold temperature render the body especially amenable to the therapeutic powers of the herbs and concoctions used in ayurveda. It’s a time when the atmosphere remains moist and dust-free which in turn opens up the body pores, making them more receptive to the herbal oils and massages. In addition, during the rains, the herbs and medicinal plants which form vital ingredients in these medicines, grow in plenty. As per ayurvedic principles, a person is healthy when there is a balance in the three fundamental bodily humours or ‘doshas’viz. Vata, Pitta and Kapha. Ritucharyavidhi in ayurveda says sudden climatic changes cause imbalance between the three doshas which then gets manifested as diseases such as cough, cold, allergies, fever, skin diseases, inflammations and digestive disorders. To prevent this, the time-tested authentic system of ayurveda advocates the seasonal therapy titled ‘karkataka chikitsa’ to be undertaken during this period. It includes a combination of oil massages, steam bath, internal oleation with medicated ghee, enemas to remove the body toxins and excess water, and ingestion of ‘rasayanas’ to rejuvenate and restore new life to the tissues. The therapy is supplemented by intake of medicated food generally known as ‘karkataka kanji’, a health porridge. This chikitsa has been prescribed in ayurveda during the last month of the malayalam calendar to ensure prevention of diseases and to facilitate vigour, energy and longevity. The best of the monsoon ayurvedic treatments comprise head massage or ‘sirodhara’, ‘abhayangam’ or full body massage, ‘tharpanam’ for the eye, ‘nasyam’ for the nose, ‘karnadhoopanam’ for the ear, ‘njavarakizhi’, ‘pizhichil’, herbal steam bath and panchakarma treatment.

2010-09-21T16:39:00.004+05:30

WElCOMING THE MONSOON IN KERALA The monsoon season in Kerala is that wonderful time of the year when the southwest monsoon casts its spell over the land of coconuts for three months between June and September. And with it come the special travel treats and packages that are increasingly drawing visitors from outside the state. It is the best time to savour the delights of god’s own country, and indulge in traditional ayurveda to replenish the body and rejuvenate the soul. Ayurveda is a great option for the monsoons, as the rains engulf Kerala with their annual dose of wetness and lush green luxuriance. Kerala monsoon is the season of rainbows, rainclouds and raindrops. Monsoons, despite their inconvenience, are fun time. Swimming, splashing and wading through knee-deep waters and sailing paper boats are all part of the fun. The intoxicating smell of dry earth getting drenched, fan-plumed peacocks dancing with joy, mango flowers blooming in hope, the farmers rejoicing in the showers – all these and more form part and parcel of monsoontime. Kerala has every reason to celebrate the magical monsoon which comes as a welcome change following a sultry and dusty summer.

2010-06-16T10:46:00.003+05:30

A hidden oasis in Varkala JUNE 16, 2010: The Bohemian Masala is a unique hidden oasis, a tropical private garden retreat located at Varkala, a famous beach destination in Kerala. As tourist attractions, the Arabian Sea and the North Cliff are just a minute’s walk away. There are twelve cottages here which include Cosmic Cottage and Universe Cottage whose architecture and design have been done by tribal folks using their own indigenous methods. The infrastructure is entirely handmade by the tribals who have plastered the walls and floors using ancient tribal techniques, utilizing natural materials such as herbs, mud, cow dung, clay, flowers etc. Each cottage, furnished with handcrafted furniture made from reclaimed wood, has a private lounge and verandah. The whole construction has been established as per the strict principles of Vaasthu, the traditional Indian science of harmonious living and home making. Its core inspiration comes from the bohemian artistes, philosophers, tribes, gypsies, musicians and poets who have been creators of history and contributors to a unique spiritual culture all along. Bohemian food is cooked and served at The Masala, representing spices that form the age-old, complex, historical culture of our country. The open kitchen restaurant offers fresh and authentic sea food cuisine prepared over wood. Wireless broadband is also available in the cottages and restaurant, which makes it an excellent workplace for designers, artistes and writers on the move. A yogic science and tribal spa facility rooted in holistic healing is under development for 2011. For further details, log onto www.thebohemianmasala.com.

2010-05-19T12:25:00.003+05:30

GAVI – a paradise for nature lovers Spread across the Periyar Tiger Reserve, the village of Gavi is a quiet, beautiful and pristine forest haven. It lies at the eastern end of Pathanamthitta district at 3400 ft above sea level. This evergreen forest is abundant with magnificent wildlife which includes the tiger, elephant, leopard, bear, Indian gaur, sambar, barking and mouse deer, lion tailed macaque and other varieties of animals. Home to over 320 species of birds including the great Indian hornbill, sunbirds, woodpeckers, kingfishers and myriads of myenas, dongos, cuckoos and bulbuls, Gavi is a heaven for birdwatchers. The plant life mainly includes Nageia or Podocarpus wallichinia, a highly endemic species of the Gymnosperm family seen only around this place in the whole of Western Ghats. Gavi often serves as a base camp for deep jungle trekkers, birdwatchers, nature lovers, research students and the like. Arrangements for adventurous activities like trekking, wildlife watching, outdoor camping in specially built tents, night safaris etc are available for tourists. Active involvement of tribals in Gavi under the novel eco scheme initiated by the government involving them as guides, cooks and gardeners, makes it a unique venture of its kind in the country. Traditional knowledge of the forest and its way of life with inputs from the indigenous people themselves, helps Gavi to sustain its surroundings in its original state. This activity ensures livelihood for the locals and also helps to create awareness on conservation of nature among the touring public. The road leading to the picturesque Gavi is blanketed by tea plantations. Eco lodges from where one can savour the spectacular view of the Gavi Lake and the adjoining forests, are available for accommodation. Visitors can also try out the tree houses with singing birds for company or even pitch tents at the camp site to stay amidst the pristine wilderness. As the dusk stretches into the silence of the night, one can hear and feel the presence of wildlife in the middle of nowhere. There are guides to enrich your trekking experiences. Those who prefer solitude can bask in the tranquil environs of Gavi by going canoeing in the placid waters of the lake or simply enjoying a breathtaking sunset. Visitors are usually offered vegetarian food and snacks, which further adds to the eco-friendly atmosphere of the place. One of the breathtaking viewpoints at Gavi is the Valley View with a deep ravine and the forest below. If you are lucky enough, you might spot some Nilgiri Tahrs grazing in the valley. For nature enthusiasts, Gavi offers total connectivity with the wide species of flora and fauna that abound here. Here you find nature at its unadulterated best. Gavi has set itself as a model for responsible tourism in Kerala.

2010-04-19T16:42:00.005+05:30

Madavoorpara declared a heritage site Thiruvananthapuram, Apr.19, 2010 Madavoorpara, situated about 20 km from the capital city of Thiruvananthapuram, has recently been selected as the latest project for heritage conservation by the Department of Archaeology, Kerala. Aimed to develop as a heritage site, the project involves restoration of the cave temple at Madavoorpara, setting up of a heritage park, and installing of a telescope to enjoy close views of the surroundings, especially the coastal side. Madavoorpara lies 300 feet above the sea level and houses a rock temple that attracts a lot of pilgrims, research students and tourists every year. The rocky terrain is a favourite haunt of archaeologists and nature enthusiasts.More and more tourists are landing up at the spot for a weekend getaway to enjoy the wonders of nature. To reach the place, one can either trek up the rocky Chembazhanthy route through forest cover or drive through the winding Powdikonam road surrounded by plantations which ultimately leads you to the narrow stretch of road leading to the site. The 600-year-old cave temple that tells tales of antiquity adds charm and lends a mystic ambience to Madavoorpara. The deity is said to be of Lord Siva. However, some historians claim it to be an old Buddhist site. Sivarathri is a major annual event held here and a lot of devotees throng the premises during the festival. A perennial stream forms a small pond which is referred to as`gangatheertham' by the locals. The panoramic vista from the top of the 1,800 ft high rock is rejuvenating. The swaying coconut trees, distant hills and the sea make a perfect and rare collage in the saffron horizon. The cool breeze is refreshing while the changing colour of the evening sky is pleasing to the eye. The best time to visit Madavoorpara is in the evening.

2010-03-24T13:53:00.005+05:30

Kerala.com participates in Workshop on Personality Development : Each of us has a unique personality, whether we have realized it or not. Some of us are shy, some of us are outgoing, some are always positive, while some others are serious all the time. Whatever our basic nature, it’s up to us to develop our strengths and resources to the fullest potential if we wish to be real achievers in life. It is to serve this purpose that personality development training is commonly held in educational institutions, offices and industries everywhere. The management of Kerala.com organized a one day empowerment & training workshop for the officials and staff of Kerala.com Web & Real Estate Depts. and Kerala Travel Division on Mar.21 at Hotel Park Central Inn, Kaloor. Specialist trainer and intervention architect KJ Jayanth, one of the co founders of Deekshamentors, corporate empowerment specialists, was the resource person. The sessions were informal and highly interactive, involving enthusiastic participation from team members. Mr.Jayanth employed a mix of ideology and pragmatism as well as religion and science in elaborating on the general and finer facets of personality development. He adopted the technique of asking the right questions in order to elucidate the desired responses from the participants. Covering a host of issues ranging from general down to the specifics, he touched upon the ingredients required for success in life. He talked about the power of dreams and their impact, on the importance of self commitment, staying motivated and so on. He highlighted the relevance of maintaining universal values like integrity, faith, conviction, courage etc in enhancing our personality. All of us know very well how important it is to set goals, plan, organize, take action and deliver results in order to achieve success. Then what’s preventing us from realizing our ambitions? Owe it to nothing but our negative mindset, indicative of the fear of failure, not wanting to overcome challenges, lack of motivation, clarity, direction and so on. For the environment to change, we need to bring in the change and for this, our outlook has to change. To make it big in life, we first need to learn to think big and dream big. He utilized elementary laws and rules in Maths and Science to explain the principles and practices that would determine the extent of success in career and homefront. Success formula : Offering hints in dream building, career planning, performance excellence and related topics, the emphasis was upon the practical aspect of applying these rules to gain optimum benefit. Drawing information from psychology sources, he dwelt on examples and instances from everyday life to substantiate his points. There was reference to the GIGO principle – good things in, good things out; and Pareto principle – 90%:10% factor – ten percent of our life is left to destiny while we can decide and control the factors contributing to the remaining ninety percent. He stressed on the need to identify one’s strengths and flaws, to learn from failures, to face challenges wisely and to see crises as opportunities. Conquering fear, making good choices, disciplining one’s life, taking calculated risks and working with new ideas are all part of the success formula, according to him. The resource person’s sanguine way of presentation peppered with humour kept the energy level of the team activated throughout. The team members found themselves engrossed in writing activity during the post lunch session. A series of questionnaires related to personal, family and career dreams, priorities, ambitions, contributions and achievements had to be answered. It was a kind of self evaluation therapy for the participants, helping them identify their influences, tastes, values, and philosophies. The idea was to reinforce the clarity of goals, priorities and perspectives in one’s career and personal life, and also to instill the drive to achieve success by overcoming negative tendencies. The group activity session which saw the participants divide themselves into groups to engage in the creative task of bridge building with a given set of tools, was a lesson in team spirit and healthy competition. The final session of the workshop was devoted to feedback and review, with a few members offering their views and comments on the training and how they benefited from it. Tips to remember: 1. Think and dream big always. 2. Change your mindset to accommodate changes in life. 3. Have clarity and conviction on your goals. 4. Believe in yourself and have faith. 5. Find a purpose in life. 6. Prioritize your needs and ambitions. 7. Stay focussed all the time. 8. Remain and act positive. 9. Never lose your integrity. 10. Once a decision is taken, stick to it. 11. Do not try to emulate others – be your own individual self. 12. Visualize success repeatedly. : Vanaja Varma

2010-03-23T22:34:00.006+05:30

Deeksha Mentors empowered Kerala.com

A one day empowerment workshop was organized for the officials and staff of Kerala.com and Kerala Travel Division at Hotel Park Central Inn, Kaloor on Mar.21, Sunday, under the initiative of Kerala.com management. The resource person was Mr.Jayanth, of Deekshamentors who is a well known consultant and trainer in leadership & personality development. During the course of the workshop, he focussed on various aspects pertaining to the topic like goal-setting, decision-making, time-management, strategic planning etc. Making use of slide shows in his presentation, he highlighted these aspects and interacted with the team members, engaging them in activities which set them on thinking & action mode. The workshop was aimed at inspiring the team as a whole, and giving them the motivation required for the right attitude and action to become a permanent achiever in life. The overall team participation and response was good. A detailed report will follow.

2010-03-16T11:35:00.010+05:30

Unique Facets of Tourism in Kerala

The state of Kerala is known for its religious tolerance, land reforms, impact on health and education, low infant mortality, high literacy rate, and many more unique aspects. Statistically this land of coconuts, with its lush paddy-covered plains and misty mountain peaks, stands out as the Mt. Everest of social development in many ways. Kerala is a tightly packed holiday destination offering a wide range of tourist spots like golden beaches, silvery waterfalls, placid lagoons, adventurous hills and valleys, and tropical forests, as well as exciting activities such as paragliding, water sports, trekking, safari and cruise tourism to choose from. The state is rich in wild life consisting of innumerable species of wild animals, birds and reptiles that are housed in the sanctuaries, reserve forests and eco parks spread throughout Kerala. Kerala is known for its age-old system of healing termed ayurveda, that relies on a multitude of herbs found in remote interiors for curing diseases. The state is as famous for its ancient architecture as it is for its vibrant art forms and festivals which lend it a unique culture. Kerala cuisine is also popular for its tangy taste, the traditional feast or ‘sadya’ being a highlight.

2010-02-27T01:10:00.005+05:30

Over 500 industry leaders and eminent experts from India and abroad are expected to participate in the first major international leadership forum on ayurveda. The global summit will begin in Kochi March 24,2010. The theme of the three-day summit conference will be Global Health Challenges: Ayurveda Solutions. The event has been organized by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) in association with AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy) departments of the union and Kerala governments. The event will see an international conference, exposition and a focused business-to- business meeting platform. Ayurveda originated in India and its practice was intense particularly in Kerala, S. Saji Kumar, convener and managing director of Dhathri Ayurveda Pvt. Ltd. told reporters Thursday. Exports of ayurvedic medicines have reached a value of 100 million dollars a year. The objective of the summit is to create a global market place and ensure participation of all stakeholders to share their views and jointly take action for the upliftment of ayurveda in India and globally, said Kumar.

2009-08-18T02:11:00.002+05:30

The Green Heritage of Kerala

The Western Ghats, that which include the major part of Kerala, are home to thousands of animal species including at least 325 globally threatened species. Many are endemic species, especially in the amphibian and reptilian classes.

Mammals: There are at least 139 mammal species. A critically endangered mammal of the Western Ghats is the nocturnal Malabar Large-spotted Civet. The arboreal Lion-tailed Macaque isendangered. Only 2500 of this species are remaining. The largest population of Lion tailed macacque is in Silent Valley National Park. Kudremukh National Park also protects a viable population.

These hill ranges serve as important wildlife corridors, allowing seasonal migration of endangered Asian Elephants. The Nilgiri Bio-sphere is home to the largest population of Asian Elephants and forms an important Project Elephant and Project Tiger reserve. Brahmagiri and Pushpagiri wildlife sanctuaries are important elephant habitats. Karnataka's Ghat areas hold over six thousand elephants (as of 2004) and ten percent of India's critically endangered tiger population.

The largest population of India's Tigers outside the Sundarbans is in the unbroken forests bordering Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala. The largest numbers and herds of vulnerable Gaur are found here with the Bandipur National Park and Nagarahole together holding over five thousand Gaur. To the west the forests of Kodagu hold sizeable populations of the endangeredNilgiri Langur. Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary and project tiger reserve in Chikmagalur has large populations of Indian muntjac. Many Asian Elephant, Gaur, Sambar, vulnerable Sloth Bears, Leopard, tiger and Wild Boars dwell in the forests of Kerala.

Bannerghatta National Park and Annekal reserve forest is an important elephant corridor connecting the forests of Tamil Nadu with those of Karnataka. Dandeli and Anshi national parks inUttara Kannada district are home to the Black Panther and normal variety of leopards and significant populations of Great Indian Hornbill. Bhimgad in Belgaum district is a proposed wildlife sanctuary and is home to the endemic critically endangered Wroughton's freetailed bat. the Krishnapur caves close by are one of only three places in the country where the little-knownTheobald's tomb bat is found. Large Lesser False Vampire bats are found in the Talevadi caves. We have recently published a video which show cases the mammals of Kerala in the video gallery of our travel website. Have a look at that Video and comment on it. Or else go to our website and watch the video

2009-07-16T01:24:00.002+05:30

Tourism To Kerala Gotta Go More Fashionable Now Kerala tourism, which is on the lookout for fresh leads to continue its double-digit growth in the past has received a timely boost during the lean season, with UK-based influential style magazine Vogue featuring visuals from Kerala in its latest issue.

The magazine’s fashion crew opted to have the backwaters and paddy fields of the state among other visuals as the backdrop to its `Indian summer’ shoot, that is featured in the June edition of the magazine.

Commenting on the latest recognition for brand Kerala Tourism, state tourism secretary V Venu said the fashion shoot in an exotic setting provides a sheen of importance and that it was the same sheen of importance that a person taking a vacation photo felt, chronicling themselves in a foreign place or next to a celebrity.

The photo feature by master French photographer Patrick Demarchelier is expected to underline the brand image that Kerala tourism has built over the years of being an upmarket locale offering experiential tourism products.

2009-07-16T01:11:00.003+05:30

Karkkidaka Kanji - A medicinal treat The Malayalam month of Karkkidakam has just begun. It is the time when Keralites traditionally take a break from routine work to replenish their body and mind with Ayurvedic medicinal preparations, herbal health food and massages of different kinds. Karkkidaka kanji is a medicated food item that is taken in the month of Karkkidakam that falls during the peak of the southwest monsoon season. A time-honoured Kalari tradition, the Uzhichil is nothing but a physical rejuvenation method or a traditional way of servicing the body annually which was practised by our ancestors to maintain good health.A healthy diet was also included as part of the regimen and comprised Uluvakkanji, Karkkidaka kashayam, Navadhanyakoottu and other revitalizing homemade concoctions besides Karkkidaka kanji. Experienced vaidyans and other experts opine that most of the new generation lifestyle diseases among the youth crop up due to the lack of the annual maintenance, purification and rejuvenation of the body through time-tested methods.They recommend that the traditional way of healing and maintaining health be made part of the present day lifestyle. For more Click Here

2009-05-29T15:22:00.006+05:30

UNBELIEVABLE DISCOUNTS FROM JET AIRWAYS FOR KERALA TOURISM

The best of kerala awaits you in multi-benefit packages As a prime travel agency, Kerala.com is also being privileged to be included in the Government of kerala, Department of Tourism and Jet Airways to explore the best of kerala.

Jet Airways offer you the best rated tickets for your journey

Tourists should spend at least seventy two hours. three nights to make use of this attractive tour package- a joint offer by Department of Tourism, Kerala, Jet Airways and kerala.com index

And we at the Kerala.com tailor make the tour package most attractive, enjoyable and competitively priced for your memorable stay and travel here in Kerala.

Let us combine all those aspects of a perfect journey –Let us provide you the best-travel, warmth of hospitality, admirable destination networks-all these as per your demand and with a sensitive balance between your desires, likes, preferences and imagination, etc. For further Details Click Here

2009-04-07T12:41:00.005+05:30

Mathaiu and friends in Kerala keralatravels

When French Navy got Keralatravels.com Reception

2009-03-31T14:54:00.000+05:30

The cool pics from our trip to Chinnakanal near Munnar

2009-03-31T12:43:00.000+05:30

the cool, green sheet of nature... the resting "busy"ness... the waiting politics... the risky mountains.... the strollin' hairpins... were there to conquer our hearts !!! Yeah, just be there to find the truth in this...