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Queen of the Arabian Sea
Kochi (Cochin), the commercial
and industrial capital of Kerala, has one of the finest natural
harbors in the world. Ancient mariners from
Arabia,
China,
Holland, Britain and Portugal have all left their mark on this
beautiful island city.
One of the finest natural harbors on the Arabian Sea coast, Kochi
(Cochin), earlier known as Cochin has been a port of call for
foreign traders from early times. Its cosmopolitan character is
reflected in the buildings and structures representing different
regions of the world. A city of peninsulas and islands, today it is
Kerala's commercial hub.
Kerala's prime tourist destination, it spreads across islands and
promontories in a stunning location between the
Arabian Sea
and Backwaters. Its main sections: modern Ernakulam in the east and
the old districts of Mattancherry and
Fort Cochin on a peninsula in the west are linked by a complex
system of ferries.
City of Holy Serpent
Thiruvananthapuram, formerly
known as Trivandrum is gateway to one of the most beautiful Indian
states, Kerala.
Stretching along the southern coast of the country, with the
Backwaters reaching deep into the verdant countryside, Kerala
affords a fascinating experience. The city of the Thousand - headed
Anatha, the holy serpent on which Lord Vishnu reclines.
Trivandrum is one of the most beautiful cities of
India.
Perched on undulating terrain of low coastal hills near the southern
edge of the Indian mainland, clean and green
Trivandrum, which was previously called
Trivandrum, is an
ancient city with trading tradition dateing back to 1000 BC. The
city once formed a part of the capital of Travancore, which had its
capital at Padmanabhapuram, now in Tamilnadu.
The city is also a welcome departure from other large cities of
India in its spacious layout and regulated life.
It is also an excellent base to explore the interiors of Kerala, the
southernmost region of India, and from Kochi, the Lakshadweep
Islands. The city offers all modern facilities needed by a visitor
and is a centre for cultural activities.
Munnar (Hill Station ) :
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.
Kodaikanal (Hill Station ) :
Kodaikanal
located amidst the folds of the verdant Pali hills is one of the
most popular serene hill stations in
India,
which mesmerizes any visitor. With her wooded slopes, mighty rocks,
enhancing waterfalls and a beautiful lake, Kodaikanal is a charming
hill station of South India.
Kodaikanal is situated at an altitude of about 2,133-m high and
covers an area of 21.45-sq-km. The hill town is renowned for its
educational institutions of international repute. The pride of
Kodaikanal is the 'Kurinji-Flower', which blossoms once in 12 years.
The hill-plantain fruits and plums are known for their freshness and
taste.
Beaches…kovalam
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, promise 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. This
marvelous beach is a tourist's dream come true.
A sheltered natural bay with cool soothing palms and gentle waves.
Where when you are tired of aquatics, swimming or sunbathing, you
can explore the handicrafts, Jewellery and cloth shops spread along
the waterfront. Not to speak of the delightful sea-food fare
including lobsters available at the beachside restaurants.
Verkela ( Beach)
Varkala is a sea
side resort, as well as an important Hindu centre of pilgrimage.
High cliffs with rich mineral springs rise majestically from the
coastline.
The 2000 year old
Janardana
Swamy
Temple and the Nature Centre are the two main attractions of
Varkala
Beach. High cliffs border the excellent beach.
Varkala is a beautiful beach that has a more than 2000 years old
shrine of Lord Vishnu. This
beach of
Kerala
is rich in mineral water springs that are known for their medicinal
value.
A dip in the holy waters of Varkala beach is believed to purge the
body and the soul of all the sins hence the name 'Papanashini' for
this shore. At the break of dawn following the new moon in the
Malayalam month of 'Karkidakam', thousands offer 'Vavu Bali', a
ritual believed to help the souls of ancestors rest in peace
Back waters in kerela.
Alappuzha (
Alleppey )
Alappuzha or Alleppey, the coastal township is unique because of its
network of canals that meander through the town and its vast stretch
of beach on the Arabian sea provides comfort to the soul. Mariners
over centuries have known the Alappuzha beach as a safe anchorage
area even when the sea is rough. The coastal belt is like a sandy
sea shore which has extended inland. The beach is also known for its
mud bank phenomena.
Ernakulam
More popular as the “Queen of the Arabian Sea”, Kochi is a cluster
of islands on the vast expanse of the Vembanad Lake. Some of these
picturesque islands are Bolgatty, Vypeen, Gundu and Vallarpadam.
Unexplored, unspoiled, the backwaters of Kozhikode hold great
promises of enchanting holiday options. Elathur, the Canoli Canal
and the Kallai River are favorite places for boating.
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