Chootad Beach - One For The Beach Bums

Chootad Beach - One for the Beach Bums

A glorious strip of sand ensconced between a pretty lake and a gentle sea, overlooking the mighty Ezhimala Hills. That is Chootad Beach for you, a rare geographical combination which looks more like a painting born out of an artist’s fantasy than your usual beach. 

The beach which lies a few kilometers away from Pazhayangadi town in Kannur is yet to figure in the tourism radar and one can easily spend a few hours here in solitude. 

This resplendent beach also boasts a long, gorgeous coastline backed by Casuarina trees. When faced with such an amazing scenic splendour, who wouldn’t want to get a bird’s eye view? The merry go round at the beach lets you do just that, get spectacular views of this ethereal beauty from all perspectives.

The beach isn’t just for the romantics. It is for the adventurous and those who just want to picnic around as well. The District Tourism Promotion Council here maintains a park in the beach. Be it capering about in the park, gliding through the calm waters of the lake in a pedal boat or just revving up the quad and riding through the sands, the beach offers a host of activities to indulge in.

For beach bums, there is nothing more fulfilling than sauntering through this pristine stretch watching the waves crash at the shore, taking a dip or just settling into the sands and staring at the magnificent vista struck up by nature.  

Source : Kerala Tourism

Thirvonathoni - A Night-Long Odyssey Through The Pamba

Thiruvonathoni - A Night-Long Odyssey through the Pamba

Once a year, the River Pamba gets enlivened as an elaborately decorated snake boat glides across its placid waters bearing the provisions for a grand feast. The occasion is the journey of the Thiruvonathoni, a Garuda faced vessel, bearing the provisions for Thiruvona Sadya on Thiruvonam Day. 

Braving the elements, the vessel makes an arduous journey in the dead of the night from the Maha Vishnu Temple at Kattoor, a tiny village 12 kilometre away, to the Aranmula Sree Parthasarathy Temple where the feast is given. The banks of the river get crammed to the brim by travellers and devotees to witness this phenomenal fete. 

The provisions for the feast are pitched in by the villagers of Kattoor.

The arrival of the Bhattathiri, the eldest member of the Mangattu Brahmin family of temple priests, marks the start of the festivities. It is the Bhattathiri who escorts the vessel and the villagers accord a warm reception to him. 

As dusk falls, the Thiruvonathoni starts sailing, all escorted by snake boats. Enroute, the Thiruvonathoni makes two stops, the first is at the Ayiroor Madom where it is accorded a rousing reception and a plethora of offerings are made. It is only at midnight that the craft commences its journey from here. The vessel makes its next stop at Melukara where yet another enthusiastic crowd offers a grand welcome. After a brief halt, the journey resumes.  

The nightlong cruise of the brilliantly illuminated Thiruvonathoni beneath the night sky speckled by a grandiose firework display, swaying to the exuberant notes of the boat songs, makes for a stellar sight. 

The Thiruvonathoni is joined by a fleet of snake boats midway which escorts it to the Aranmula Temple. As the vessel reaches the ghat, it is welcomed by the high-spirited rendering of boat songs, casting a festive aura over Aranmula. Thousands throng the banks to witness this glorious spectacle. By noon, a grand lineup of dishes of myriad flavours is prepared and served. Devotees flood the temple to savour the feast.

Once here, enjoy the elaborate spread of dishes listening to the frenetic notes of the boat songs and just merge with the festivities.

Source : Kerala Tourism

Paithal Mala Hills - It Is A Trekker's Delight

PAITHAL MALA HILLS

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KANNUR

Paithal Mala stands majestically at an altitude of 4500 ft. steeped in a white blanket of mist- the Paithal Mala. Also called Vaithal Mala, Paithal Mala is a hill station that rests in the lap of the Western Ghats in Kannur district of Kerala. Located in the Kerala – Karnataka border, Paithal Mala descends into the Kudaku forest area of Karnataka.

This hilly stretch which is the highest peak in Northern Kerala bursts with myriad forms of life. This divine slice of land which is a blend of vast green meadows and sigh inducing valleys is a haven of birds, butterflies, rare plants and trees.  The journey is also a walk into a chapter of history as one gets to see the remains of the ruined palace of the tribal king Vaithalkon.

With its grand landscapes, Paithal Mala resembles the Western highlands. A two km trek is needed to reach the top of the hills. The trek to the top itself is rewarding. It is more of a jungle sojourn in solitude, occasionally punctuated by the calls of the birds. An exciting trail replete with all the wonders of the wilderness leads you to the base of the Paithal Mala. From there you amble up a velvet green stretch that leads into the summit of the hillock. There, you just walk into a creamy mist. Feast your eyes on the panorama of peaks as the hovering mist gives way and enjoy the grand views of this wild beauty.

Surrounded by a swathe of lush greenery, Paithal Mala offers a truly exhilarating and enchanting trekking experience.A gorgeous hill station which offers a vista of wonders, Paithal Mala is a trekker’s delight. 

Pithalmala recieves a good amount of rainfall throughout the year. Temperature will drop to to less than 10 Degree Celsius in winter. Paithalmala have two active tourist seasons. If you are a photographer, the best time to visit Paithalmala is monsoon,  

June to October. At this period one can witness mist covered mountains and never ending greenery with a little showers. Remember to wear good shoes which completely covers your foot to protect against the leeches. As a result of the monsoon rains, the grasses grow to the walkways, which makes walking difficult. 

By the end of November the paths will be cleared and trekkers can easily pass through the grasses. The second tourist season is January to March. At this time, The sun might be a little harsh, so take care before setting out for trekking.The greenery at the top will fade away to golden brown grass land at summer. Always carry water with you to prevent dehydtation, especially in this time.

Paithalmala is located at  55km from Kannur and 40 km from Taliparamba. The nearest national highway is at Taliparamba is National Highway 66 which connects Goa and Mumbai in the north and Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram in the South. The nearest town is Kudiyanmala. 

When Driving from Kannur to reach Paithalmala, The shortest route (55.8 km) is: Kannur- Puthiyatheru – Mayyil- Sreekandapuram – Chemberi – Paithalmala. When Driving From Taliparamba, The shortest Route (39.2 km) is: Taliparamba – Oduvally – Naduvil – Kudiyanmala – Paithalmala.  

The nearest Railway station is Kannur Railway Station (CAN). The nearest Airport is Calicut International Airport (CCJ). If you Prefer Public Transport, KSRTC is operating several buses from Kannur and Taliparamba to Kudiyanmala. Click here to View the KSRTC Bus timings from Taliparamba to Kudiyanmala and here View the KSRTC Bus timings from Kannur to Kudiyanmala. There are no Private buses being operated in Kudiyanmala.

Njangattiri Aanayoottu - A Special Feast To Elephents In Kerala

NJANGATTIRI AANAYOOTTU

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PALAKKAD

Festival Date - 21-7-2017

Venue - Njangattiri Bhagavathi Temple

Location - Pattambi

District - Palakkad

Elephants are usually seen decorated and paraded around during temple festivals in Kerala. However, during this elephant feeding ritual, they remain unadorned. The elephants are taken inside the temple premises and given a delicious feast of sugarcane leaves, coconut, jaggery and other local produce by people who come to worship them. The ritual aims to please Lord Ganesha, for the removal of obstacles and fulfillment of wishes.

A grand ceremony wherein a special feast is prepared for the elephants, the Njangattiri Aanayoottu ritual is held in the Njangattiri Bhagavathi Temple at Pattambi in the Palakkad district. In the Aanayoottu (Aanayoottu meaning feeding of elephants) ceremony, the elephants are fed specially medicated food. The ceremony is based on the principles of Ayurveda which consider the Malayalam month of Karkkidakam as a month of rejuvenation. Accordingly, this Ayurvedic tradition of rejuvenation is extended towards Elephants as well.

During this festival, the elephants are lined up in a row in the temple premises and are offered delicious and healthy food.  The special feast of elephants is prepared by following ayurvedic principles. Being a sacred animal, feeding elephants is also considered auspicious according to Hindu mythology and culture. Scores of people throng the temple premises to feed the elephants. 

Nearest railway station: Shoranur, about 18 km

Nearest airport: Coimbatore International Airport (Tamil Nadu), about 55 km from Palakkad

Devikulam Hill Station - It Gives Grisp And Cool Mountain Air To Nature's Lovers

DEVIKULAM HILL STATION

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IDUKKI

Source : Kerala Tourism

Devi kulam hill station is located 16 kms from Munnar, this gorgeous hill station symbolises nature in her pristine glory. The crisp and cool mountain air heavily laden with the fragrance of wild flowers and rare herbs is any nature lover's paradise. 

The Sita Devi Lake offers rejuvenating springs of mineral water and is also a favourite picnic spot among tourists. Besides the expansive tea plantations, a spice garden run by the district tourism promotion council nurtures a wide variety of spices. 

Traveling with a quest takes individuals on a destination worthy of being visited. And the journey becomes pious when it is made for the search of God and solace in Nature which is what one gets in a very small village - Devikulam hill station - the place with the lotus pond of Goddess.

People on vacation in world famous Munnar might not formerly aware of Devikulam as a hill station which is isolated but one glance around here and there is no doubt that the chilly in the air, greenery on the slopes, low hanging clouds over hills and the Sita Devi Lake surrounded by colors and vibrancy of Nature are to be cherished forever. Just 16 Km away from Munnar, Devikulam in Idukki district of Kerala is often a part of combined package tourists and vacationers take to come to this place.

The village is very small, thus seem crowded in summers when locals take weekend trips to get immersed in the views of Nature as she resides here. Devikulam tour has many reasons; nearness to Munnar, the prominent ones are beauty of the place, legends and mythology associated with the place that tells about Goddess Sita (Wife of Lord Rama) bathing in the lake after which it is named since then, skin-ailments treating water of the lake and numerous opportunities to explore hills through trekking and hiking. In God's Own Country, journey to all the places become a pilgrimage in their own likeness!

Munnar being in close proximity as well as great in popularity generally steals much of the show, but those who like some peace, pick home stays or hotels in Devikulam as their option for accommodation. Those who are coming directly to this hilly landscape can remain stick to the idea of going solitary lived to the perfection. However, the distance between the two is so less, it hardly takes any time commuting from one place to the other.some of the popular names of this place include- Autumn Trees, Pavitram Holiday Inn, Spring Dale Resort, Misty Buds Homestay, and others.

By Air 

Kochi International Airport is best to reach the village is flight is the preferred way of journey.

By Train 

Kottayam and Kochi 130 Km and 150 Km respectively are the nearest railway stations from where taxis or buses could be taken to reach Devikulam.

By Bus

Journey on roads from Cochin (Kochi) and Kottayam is a delight especially when the driver is experienced and efficient for the hill driving.

Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary - Major Species Of Wild Animals Found Here

ARALAM WILDLIFE SANCTUARY

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KANNUR

The Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary is spread over 55 sq km of undulating forested highlands on the slopes of the Western Ghats. The highest peak here - Katti Betta - rises to a majestic 1145 m above sea level.

This Sanctuary was established only 32 years ago in Kannur District of Kerala. This protected area shares common boundary with Coorg district of Karnataka. The aralam range runs along this protected area and is the only range in sight. Earlier, the reserve was under Wayanad Forest division but soon became autonomous from 1998 and Iritty became its head quarters,

Covered with tropical and semi evergreen forests, the Aralam Sanctuary is home to a vast variety of flora and fauna endemic to the Western Ghats. Elephant, gaur, sambar, spotted deer, barking deer, Nilgiri langur, Hanuman langur, Malabar giant squirrel, etc can be seen here.

Aralam, a village in Thalassery, Kannur, is also noted for the Central State Farm, a 3060 hectare farm started in 1971 by the Government of India. This is one of the main production centres of hybrid coconut seeds in the country.

Nearest Town is Iritty which is only five kms away. one can avail buses for hire cars to reach this place. The sanctuary is well connected with Wayanad, Kannur, Virajpet and Thalassery. Thalassery railway station is the nearest and well connected station that is located about 45 kms away and kannur station about 70 kms away. Both the stations are connected to the reserve by public buses and four wheelers. It is a little cumbersome to reach by air because the nearest airport Karipur in Kozhikode is about 150 kms away and will take hours to reach the place.

Contact Address: 

The Wildlife Warden 

Aralam Wildlife Division, 

Iritty P.O

Phone: +91 490 2493160 

Mobile:9447979101

E-mail: ww-aralam@forest.kerala.gov.in 

Website: www.aralam.com

Source : Kerala Tourism

Monsoon in Kerala - It Is A Heady Concoction Of Emotions

Monsoon in Kerala

Rain is a heady concoction of emotions which has to be witnessed in all its grandeur. 

For those who enjoy downpours what better time to be in Kerala than the Monsoon season.  The Monsoon season in Kerala is indeed a heavenly spectacle as the whole of earth rejoices after being revived from the harsh summer spell.

As soon as billows of dark clouds start bearing down and the lighting and sound of thunder rips through the sky, the whole region bursts out in a carnival of sorts in the anticipation of the rain. And finally, as the rains come crashing down to the scorching earth with a hiss, it is pure magic, a delight to all the senses. 

The monsoons in Kerala follow a distinct pattern. The rains don’t stretch on for weeks but is punctuated by splashes of sunshine. These mild sunny spells strike the right balance and bathe the drenched landscapes in golden glory.  

Kerala bears witness to two rainy seasons- The Southwest Monsoons and the Northeast Monsoons.  The Southwest Monsoons, also called Edavappathy, arrives in the month of June. As the rains arrive in the middle of the month of Edavam in the Malayalam Calendar, it is called Edavappathy. The Northeast Monsoons make its presence felt mid-October, in the month of Thulam according to the Malayalam calendar and is hence called the Thulavarsham. 

The charm of the Monsoon is pronounced in hill stations and they offer the best vantage points to enjoy the showers. 

The Monsoon season is also the time for rejuvenation when Ayurvedic therapies are carried out. The ancient science of Ayurveda stipulates the Monsoon season as the right time to indulge in herbal therapies and the body is treated to special herbal oils and medications.

Each monsoon season in Kerala is as fresh as the first dew on a blade of grass and once experienced, it gets lodged in the memory forever.  

Champakkulam Boat Race - Snake Boats Ripping The Calm Water For A Grand Visual Spectacle

CHAMPAKKULAM BOAT RACE

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ALAPPUZHA

The Champakkulam Boat Race starts off the season of boat races and unleashes a visual splendour as the snake boats slice through the calm waters accompanied by the rhythmic chant of boat songs in the Alappuzha District Of Kerala State of India.

Kerala is one of the best kept secrets of India. A culture in which the heritage of the land is proudly preserved in the hearths and hearts of all the people of the land, a study into the culture of Kerala is a fascinating tale of natural beauty coupled with an ancient heritage. Perhaps no other aspect of the heritage of Kerala exhibits it as much as do the various festivals in Kerala, notable among which is the Champakkulam Boat Race.

The Champakkulam Boat Race is all set to begin on June 26, this year. The festival, which is one of the most-awaited events in the calendar of Kerala, has an origin which dates back to centuries in time. This spectacular snake boat race is held on the River Pampa on the day of the 'moolam', which is followed in accordance to the Malayalam month of Midhunam. The day is considered to be especially sacred as it is the day when the Deity at the Ambalappuzha Sree Krishna Temple was installed.

The Champakulam Boat Race is held in accordance to a legend which is strongly adhered to by the people of Kerala. According to the legend, the king of Chempakasseri in Devanarayana, under the influence of instructions, provided to him by the royal priest erected a temple in his kingdom. However, just before the installation, he was informed that the idol was not auspicious. 

To make amends, the king brought the idol of Sree Krishna from the Karikulam temple in Kurichi, which legend claimed was handed over to Arjuna by Lord Krishna himself. It was during this journey that the king made a stop over at Champakulam. The next morning saw thousands of boats assembled at the site in a riot of colors in order to honor the sacred event and to escort the idol home

The banks of the Pampa River gets swarmed by people from far and near, cheering and egging on the oarsmen to a resounding finish. These snake boats ripping through the serene waters and propelled by hundreds of oarsmen splashing and beating their oars about in the waters in unison makes for a grand visual spectacle. Boats such as chundan (snake boat), veppu, iruttu kuthi, churulan and others from nearby regions line up to participate in this spectacular water sport. 

It is this scene which is enacted in this part of the world every year and which is known as the Champakkulam Boat Race.

Nearest Railway Station is Thrissur and it is about 25km.

Nearest Airport is Cochin International Airport and it is about 78km.

Malampuzha Dam And Garden - Passengers attracted By Adventurous And Delightful Air Journey Of Ropeway

MALAMPUZHA DAM AND GARDEN

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PALAKKAD

Malampuzha is a small town in Palakkad District of Kerala, built near the Malampuzha River (A tributary of Bharathapuzha River).Malampuzha Dam is a large irrigation dam built on Malampuzha River, a tributary of Bharathapuzha River at the base of the hills of the Western Ghats. The reservoir provides drinking water to Palakkad town.

Malampuzha, a little township on the foothills of the Western Ghats takes its name from the River Malampuzha. Nurtured by this tributary of Kerala's longest river, the Bharathapuzha, Malampuzha is a lush green town is a major tourist attraction for its trekking trails and the large irrigation dam.

There is a beautiful well laid garden near the Dam. There are lush green lawns, innumerable flower beds, glittering pools, fountains and avenues. There is a fresh water aquarium, Snake Park and a Children's park with a toy train. The Garden house has a unit of Water sports also. The imposing concrete sculpture of YAKSHI, the passenger ropeway, first of its kind in South India, offers adventurous and delightful air journey of 20 minutes across the garden are added attractions of the park. 

A telescopic tower, the first rock garden and the first amusement park of Kerala Fantasy Park are also located at Malampuzha. The reservoir has boating and fishing facilities.Around the reservoir of the dam are beautiful gardens and amusement parks. Boating facilities are available on the lake. Other attractions in the Malampuzha garden are the beautiful rock garden, the fish-shaped aquarium, the snake park, the ropeway which takes you on an aerial tour of the park, and the gigantic Yakshi (an enchantress) sculptured by Kanai Kunhiraman, a renowned sculptor of Kerala.

The most interesting feature of the rock garden is that the whole place is made of unwanted and broken pieces of bangles, tiles, used plastic cans, tins and other waste materials. The garden is a master work of sculptor Padmasree Neck Chand Saini. His rock garden in Chandigarh is world famous and attracts thousands of tourists every year.

Visiting Hours: 0900 hrs to 2000 hrs

Entrance Fee: 

Children (3-12): Rs. 10/-

Adult: Rs.25/-

Separate entrance fee for Ropeway, Snake Park (Monday Holiday)  

Contact details:

Malampuzha Garden, Ph: +91 491 2815295

Nearest railway station: Palakkad, about 9 km  

Nearest airport: Coimbatore International Airport, about 67 km and Calicut International Airport, about 106 km

'Best Destination For Romance' Award Is Given To Munnar Of Kerala

BEST DESTINATION FOR ROMANCE - MUNNAR

Munnar, the hill station in Kerala, has bagged the award for ‘Best Destination for Romance’ at the Lonely Planet Magazine India Travel Awards 2017. Mr. P. Bala Kiran IAS, Director, Kerala Tourism, received the prestigious award at the sixth edition of Lonely Planet India Travel Awards. 

“It is a euphoric moment for Kerala Tourism. It is overwhelming to be aware of the fact that Kerala is gaining popularity as India’s most preferred destination among the Indian travellers. The state’s tourism department will continue to keep up the positive momentum with its perennial growth trajectory,” said Mr. P. Bala Kiran IAS, Director, Kerala Tourism.

Munnar is famed for its romantic cottages, cloudy mountains, lively tea gardens and lush green valleys. 

This award is yet another addition to the series of prominent awards won by Kerala Tourism in 2017 and Kerala has time and again made its presence felt in the tourism industry.

Source : Kerala Tourism

Bekal Beach - It Has Laid Beautiful Walkway To Enjoy The Panoramic View

Bekal Beach

Kasaragod, the Northern most district of Kerala is renowned as the land of gods, forts, rivers, hills and beautiful beaches. The imposing fort at Bekal is one of the largest and best-preserved forts in Kerala. The beautiful expanse of the shallow beach near the Bekal fort, known as Bekal Fort Beach has been developed as an exotic beach location by the Bekal Resorts Development Corporation (BRDC).

Beautification of the site includes installation of two sculptures of Theyyam created using laterite on the beach and a shed the walls of which are adorned with murals created by artisans from Nilambur. Apart, from these a rock garden at the parking area has been developed where laterite boulders of various sizes have been utilised. Under the social forestry scheme, trees have been planted in the beach area.

Parking facilities: The BRDC has developed about 7000 sq. m of land for parking different types of vehicles.

Walkway: A beautiful walkway has been laid for the visiting tourists to explore the beauty of the fine coastline and enjoy the panoramic view of the Bekal Fort.

Illuminated beach: The beach gets illuminated during the evening hours so that tourists can spend more time at the beach even after the sun sets.

Resting facilities: Multi shed and Eru madam (Tree house) would provide the tourists enough facilities to take rest and enjoy the sea breeze. By using locally available materials seating arrangements have been provided for the tourists at the beach.

Toilets: Toilets have been provided for the use of tourists and eco-friendly bamboo waste bins have been provided in the entire beach site for keeping the area clean.

Children's park: A park has been developed here for children below 14 years.

In order to maintain the developed site a nominal charge of one rupee from each visitor would be collected as entry fees. A similar nominal vehicle parking fees would also be collected. The BRDC also aims to develop in future another 11 acres of land at the beach for constructing water park, theme park etc.

The BRDC was set up by the Government of Kerala to develop Bekal as a planned eco-friendly destination. The BRDC has utilised 19 acres of land for the development of the Bekal Fort Beach at a cost of approximately Rs. 25 million including land acquisition charges. 

Visiting hours: 0800 - 1730 hrs

Contact details: 

Bekal Resorts Development Corporation Limited (BRDC)

KVS Hyper Market Building, 

Pallakunnu, Bekal P.O.

Kasaragod - 671 318

Telefax: +91 467 2236580 

Email: brdcltd@bsnl.in  

Nearest railway station: Kasaragod, on the Kozhikode-Mangalore-Mumbai route.  

Nearest airport: Mangalore, about 50 km from Kasaragod town; Calicut International Airport, Kozhikode, about 200 km from Kasaragod town.

Source : Kerala Tourism

Explore The Eco-Tourism Packages Of Silent Valley National Park - Kerala

Explore the Eco-Tourism Packages of Silent Valley National Park

Nuzzled in the folds of the Nilgiri Hills in the Western Ghats is an arresting expanse of green cradling a rich haven of flora and fauna - The Silent Valley National Park. This pristine green blanket covering an area of 237.52 sq km is a unique preserve of tropical evergreen rainforests.

This stunning national park offers several eco-tourism packages for travellers.

Sairandhri Trip

This is a trip you embark upon to understand the wild, a voyage through a dreamy strip of land to witness the grandeur of the Valley.

In the Sairandhri eco-tourism package, visitors get to traverse through the myriad forest types in the national park which ranges from moist deciduous to evergreen. The visitors can journey through the park in the Silent Valley Forest Development Agency owned jeep or bus. 

After the ride, one gets to trek through a forest patch to reach the banks of the River Kunthi and watch its pristine waters gurgle forth in abandon. The endless expanse of green and the visual music struck up by nature lets one experience unbridled the many joys of the wild. One also gets a unique opportunity to amble up a 100 ft. tall watch tower inside the woods and watch the ethereal panoramic visuals unfold while the gusty wind wraps you in its embrace. 

Specifics: The visiting time is from 0800 to 1300 hrs. The entire trip takes 5 hours and no accommodation is provided inside the park. Visitors are strictly prohibited from bathing in the river. Tickets may be obtained from the information centre.  

Boomiyampadi Package

Tucked away about 13 km off Mukkali (base camp of the Silent Valley National Park) is Bommiyampadi, a quaint little place of surreal beauty right in the middle of the woods. The Bommiyampadi eco-tourism package is more of a jungle retreat and offers an enchanting journey through the pristine blanket of green. The package lets one stay in a ‘forest front’ cottage, tuck into delicious food and enjoy a guided trip through the lush, wild woods. It also includes a trip to the tribal areas of Attappady. This package includes the Sairandhri package as well. After a stay at a cottage in the picturesque Bommiyampadi, the visitors can avail the Sairandhri package the next day.   

Specifics: The one day package necessitates that the visitors check in at Mukkali by 1200 hrs. The guided trip is arranged in agency-owned vehicles.

Contact Details:
Wildlife Warden
Silent Valley Division
Mannarkkad, Palakkad
Kerala - 678582
Email: mail@silentvalley.gov.in
Website: www.silentvalley.gov.in/SilentHome.php 

UNWTO Lauds Kerala’s Responsible Tourism Initiatives

UNWTO Lauds Kerala’s Responsible Tourism Initiatives

The ‘Responsible Tourism’ (RT) initiatives of Kerala have yet again garnered recognition with the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) describing them as a model for other destinations to replicate. 

The world’s foremost international tourism organisation also called for the development of closer ties with Kerala Tourism and emphasised on the need to associate with the state to help take forward the message of sustainable tourism.

Mr. U.V. Jose, Director, Kerala Tourism had presented a report on the RT campaigns to Mr. Xu Jing, Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific, UNWTO, at a meeting held at the UNWTO headquarters in Madrid. 

The report detailed the RT policies and practices which were implemented in the state. It also outlined plans of action undertaken as part of this commitment to sustainability such as the implementation of a new RT Classification system keeping in line with the Global Sustainable Tourism Criteria, the Government of Kerala’s ‘Green Carpet’ programme, the creation of destination-level RT units to support local communities and transformative initiatives adopted by trade sector entities like the Kerala Travel Mart’s (KTM) ‘9-point agenda’.

Observing that the UNWTO’s International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development 2017 (IYSTD2017) was a good opportunity to focus on local development, Mr. U. V. Jose said that the aim is now to certify small destinations across the state according to the same criterion.

Congratulating Kerala for the initiative’s success, Mr. Jing said, “The UNWTO is proud of the work done by Kerala Tourism and impressed by the Kerala model of responsible and sustainable tourism. The projects can be included as part of UNWTO’s global programmes and the report can be a case study for other destinations. We are eager to strengthen our relationship and discuss matters of common interest.”

Mr. Jing also enquired about the possibility of collaboration between Kerala Tourism and UNWTO to create an RT advocacy agenda based on the ‘Responsible Tourism Symposium’ in South Korea. He also suggested initiating an RT award at the next edition of the KTM along the lines of the Japanese Travel Association’s (JATA) Japan Tourism Award for Responsible Tourism.

 “The recognition and request to take the RT message further by the UNWTO reflects the strength of Kerala’s pioneering initiatives and its commitment to practicing tourism in a responsible and sustainable manner with the interests of the local community, the traveller and the planet in mind. Tourism policies in Kerala have always been tempered by an understanding of the uniqueness of the state’s many diverse destinations and their successes are an affirmation of what RT stands for,” said Mr. U. V. Jose.

The meeting was held on the sidelines of FITUR 2017, one of the world’s largest tourism and travel fairs. Mr. U. V. Jose had also attended the launch event of UNWTO’s International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development.

source:kerala tourism

Kerala Tourism Minister Inaugurates Three Day International Coin Fair

Kerala Tourism Minister Inaugurates Three Day International Coin Fair

Mr. Kadakampally Surendran, Minister for Tourism, Kerala, has inaugurated a three-day International Coin Fair organised by the District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC), Thiruvananthapuram at Kanakakunnu Palace.

The exhibition featured the collections of Mr. Justin Gilbert Lopez, who holds a Guinness World Record for the largest coin collection. Lopez, who hails from Poovar in Thiruvananthapuram, has a collection of coins from 310 countries, even those whose claims of statehood are currently under dispute.

“The exhibition showcases more than 2,500 coins from around 500 regions, including those from the time of empires and princely states. I also have coins from Kurdistan, a nation whose existence is still in dispute,” said Mr. Lopez.

The coins on display include those from the time of Alexander the Great, to the various Mughal, Chera, Chola emperors and Kanishka besides Persian, Roman and Islamic coins.

The exhibition also featured the coin released by Subhash Chandra Bose during the British rule, Somalian guitar-shaped coins, coins issued to commemorate Princess Diana, and flower-inscribed coins, among others.

source: Kerala Tourism

Vellarimala Falls – Last Period Of Monsoon Is Perfect For Trekking To Reach Vellarimala Peak

VELLARIMALA WATERFALLS

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KOZHIKODE

Vellari Mala is situated near Thusharagiri is in Kozhikode district.Vellarimala is a mountain range in Thiruvambady town of the Kozhikode district, Kerala state, India. These mountains are a part of the Western Ghats and lie on the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border.

They extend to the Nilgiri Hills in Tamil Nadu and are separated by the Chaliyar valley. The Wayanad plateau lies east of the hills and merges into the Mysore plateau. Vellarimala hill is accessible from the last village in the region i.e. Muthappanpuzha, near Anakkampoyil town, about 50 kilometers from Kozhikode. The bio-diversity of the mountains is similar to that of the Nilgiri Hills.

The River Kanjirapuzha creates several waterfalls and streams in the region, complementing the green landscape. Dense vegetation covers the area, lending a green color to the environment. One will be surprised not to find the Shola grasslands on the Vellarimala top but there is a lot of foliage and the breeze is almost absent!

A slow drizzle always graces this mountain range and rain can be encountered at any time in this region. Rain polished leaves gives the atmosphere, life and freshness. The post monsoon season is ideal for a trek to the Vellarimala peak. Enjoy Pazha Pori (Banana Fry) and tea, the local delicacy of the region while trekking along.

Verdant, rolling landscape, with numerous brooks, cascades and breathtaking waterfalls, Vellari Mala offers is a true abode for you to unwind and to immerse in the whiff of its limitless fresh air. River Kanjirapuzha, a tributary of the River Chaliyar, meanders through the rocky terrain, creating cascades and breathtaking waterfalls at many points.

The land's beauty and topography is truly a trekker's paradise and is also an ideal picnic spot for people of all age group to have a good time.  Scintillating waterfalls and velvet green landscapes make this an ideal spot for trekking.

For trekking, contact:

The Destination Manager,

DTPC Tourist Facilitation Centre,

Thusharagiri

Ph: +91 495 2236600

By Air

Calicut International Airport, about 40 km.

By Train

Nearest railway station is Nilambur, about 26 km.

Adyanpara Waterfall – It Has Cleanse And Healing Power By Surrounding Of Nature

ADYANPARA WATERFALL

AT

MALAPPURAM

Adyanpara waterfall is located in Kurumbalangode village of Nilambur taluk of Malappuram District in Kerala State of India. Adyanpara is natural waterfall originated from surrounding jungles. Adyanpara waterfall is one of the tourist attractive places in Nilambur.

There is a mythology that the water in Adyanpara waterfall is purified and having medicinal power by nature. The reason is each drop of the water is coming filtered by soil and there is direct impact of medicinal plants by their leaves, roots and outer part.

Adyanpara waterfall is proposed for generating electricity by Kerala Government. Still the people surrounded by the Adyanpara waterfall is using for agricultural purpose.

The picturesque waterfalls surrounded by lush green forest all around makes an ideal base for a picnic or a holiday. You will surely get amazed by the natural environs and the noise of water falling from such a big height.

River Kanjirappuzha is a small tributary of the Chaliyar river in Nilambur taluk of Malappuram district in Kerala, India. The river originates from the mountain region which lies between Malappuram and Kozhikode districts.

The river flows through Chaliyar panchayath in Malappuram district and ultimately joins Chaliyar near Chaliyarmukku where Karimpuzha also meets Chaliyar. The Adyanpara Waterfalls are situated on the river.

By Air

Nearest airport is Calicut International Airport, around 58 km in Nilambur - Gudalur Rd.

By Train

Nearest railway stateion is Nilambur, around 16 km away.

By Bus

Government buses are plying regularly to Nilambur

Kerala's Heritage And Culture Connect To The Tourism Sector Said By CM Of Kerala

Connect State’s Heritage with Tourism Sector: Pinarayi Vijayan, Chief Minister, Kerala

Mr. Pinarayi Vijayan, Chief Minister, Kerala, has underlined the need to connect Kerala’s heritage and culture to the tourism sector.  “International and domestic tourists should get the experience of Kerala products, heritage and culture to enhance the sector. This can be achieved only by connecting Kerala’s traditional industries with the sector. Tourism is a gateway to take the state’s history to the world,” he said while delivering the inaugural address of the Sargaalaya International Arts and Crafts Festival at Iringal, Kozhikode.

He also presented the State Tourism Awards for 2014-15 at the event. A high powered committee under the chairmanship of Dr. Venu V., Principal Secretary, Kerala Tourism, selected 27 winners under three categories for the tourism awards.

Mr. Kadakampally Surendran, Minister for Tourism, Kerala, who presided over the event, said that the state tourism sector aims to create 4 lakh jobs in next five years.

“With many innovative initiatives, Kerala has already grabbed a space on the world tourism map. The government is planning to identify and develop 79 new destinations in the state apart from creating more model tourism villages. This will be ensured with the help of the co-operative sector,” said the Tourism Minister.

Dr. Venu V., Principal Secretary, Kerala Tourism and Mr. U. V. Jose, Director, Kerala Tourism were among the host of dignitaries at the event.

Click here to view the winners list.

Kerala Tourism Awards Winners Of 2014-2015

Winners of State Tourism Awards 2014-2015

Kerala Tourism has presented the Kerala Tourism Awards of Excellence 2014-2015 to honour Kerala's Best Tourism Service Providers. The awards were presented by Mr. Pinarayi Vijayan, Chief Minister, Kerala.

The list of the awardees:

Marvel Tours won the award for best in-bound tour operator. Crowne Plaza, Kochi, bagged the top award for five star deluxe hotel, while Uday Samudra Leisure Beach Hotel and Spa bagged the best five star hotel award.

Spice Village in Thekkady, has been adjudged best four star hotel and Marari Beach in Alappuzha won the top three star hotel award. Coconut Lagoon, Kumarakom, took the best heritage hotel award.

Somatheeram Research Institute and Ayurveda Hospital won the award for the best Ayurveda Centre, while Coconut Creek Farm and Homestay at Kumarakom won the best homestay award. The award for the best serviced villa went to Teak Town, Malappuram.

The award for the best hotel manager went to Jaya Chitra of Somatheeram Ayurveda Resort and Sanjay Kaushik of Crowne Plaza, while Munnar Catering College pocketed the award for the best tourism management institute.

The special recognition for new initiatives in tourism for this year went to Joseph K of Malappuram for 'Adventure on Wheels' initiative while Somatheeram Ayurveda Group and The Travel Planners from Thiruvananthapuram won the award for the best use of IT in Tourism.

The Best Adventure Tourism Award went to Kalypso Adventures. Some other awards were the best tourism police award for Sanal Kumar A G; best tourism lifeguard for Mahesan C and best tourism destination for Sargaalaya Kerala Arts and Crafts Village, Iringal.

Dr K C Krishnakumar, Chief Sub Editor, Mathrubhumi won the award for best tourism related report while Arun Sreedhar, Chief Photographer, Malayala Manorama won  for best tourism photography.

St Xavier's College for Women, Aluva, was adjudged for best tourism club award.

Green Carpet Workshop Was Conducted By Kerala Tourism

Kerala Tourism Conducts 

Green Carpet Workshop

Kerala can be proudly called ‘God's Own Country’ only when efforts are put in place to ensure security, cleanliness, hygiene, and scientific waste management, apart from offering unique experiences, Mr. Kadakampally Surendran, Minister for Tourism, Kerala, has said.

The minister was speaking while inaugurating a two-day workshop by Kerala Tourism held as part of the Green Carpet initiative which he said would go a long way towards achieving these goals.

The minister also remarked that tourism activities should not be confined to just a few tourist centres, but should be extended to other centres as well. 

The workshop was aimed at ensuring sustainable development and maintenance of 79 select tourist destinations. A blueprint for 111 short term and long term projects was designed in the workshop.

"The 79 tourist destinations selected for the first phase of the Green Carpet initiative will be turned into distinctive tourism friendly centres," said Mr. U. V. Jose, Director, Kerala Tourism, at the concluding meet.

Mr. S. Harikishore IAS,  Executive Director , Kudumbashree,  Ms. Vasuki IAS, Executive Director, Suchitwa Mission, Mr. S. Sugathan, Executive Director, Green Village,  Mr. G. Shankar, Director, Habitat, Mr. Roopesh Kumar, State Field Coordinator, Responsible Tourism, Mr. S. D. Prins, PRO, Raj Bhavan, Dr. Shekhar L. Kuriakose, Member Secretary , Disaster Management Authority , Dr V. Vijayakumar, Principal, KITTS, Prof. Saroop Roy, and Prof. Raghunandanan (IRCTC) conducted classes on various topics. 

Destination Managers of tourist destinations, Deputy Directors, and District Tourism Promotional Council (DTPC) Secretaries attended the workshop at Maria Rani Centre, Sreekaryam. 

Source : Kerala Tourism

Best Leisure Destination Award Is Given To Kerala

Kerala Voted Best Leisure Destination in India 

by Condé Nast Traveller

Kerala has clinched the big prize as India’s best destination for leisure at the Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Awards 2016.

Kerala bagged the award close on the heels of clinching two major popularity awards with the Lonely Planet magazine citing it as the best family destination in India and Travel + Leisure magazine listing it as a top honeymooners’ destination.

The state was voted the ‘Favourite Indian Leisure Destination’ of the year in a survey conducted by the international travel magazine. Kerala, which had won the runner-up prize in the same category in 2015, shared the top honour with Goa this year.

Mr. K. Radhakrishnan, Deputy Director, Kerala Tourism received the travel award at a glittering ceremony held at The Lodhi hotel in New Delhi. Mr. Vinod Zutshi, Secretary, Union Tourism, was the Chief Guest.

The annual awards, in their sixth year, honour the best in travel, tourism, and hospitality with winners in various categories picked by readers of the magazine through a voting process spanning two months.

“We are honoured to be recognised as a place to relax and rejuvenate by the travellers to our state. Kerala is known for its natural beauty and the state’s historical connections with many other parts of the world have contributed to its popularity as a top destination for leisure,” said Mr. Kadakampally Surendran, Minister for Tourism, Kerala.

Dr. Venu V., Principal Secretary, Kerala Tourism, remarked that the award reaffirmed the state’s reputation for being a tourist’s paradise.

“Be it a stay on a houseboat on one of its numerous serene backwaters, relaxing on the pristine beaches, experiencing the bliss of village life, watching traditional art performances or relishing its lip smacking cuisine, Kerala offers a perfect all-in-one leisure experience to travellers from near and far. The options for leisure travel in Kerala are limitless,” Dr. Venu said.

“The award reflects the diversity of leisure-based offerings in Kerala today as well as the quality of their branding. Visitors looking to unwind here know they have an abundance of choices to pick from. The results of their positive experiences here have shown up through the state’s consistently strong showings at such prestigious tourism and travel awards,” said Mr. U.V. Jose, Director, Kerala Tourism. 

Source : Kerala tourism