keralatourismenterprises.inkeralatourismenterprises.in/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/...Thiruvallam (7 km): This 2000 year old temple on the bank of river Karamana, is the only one in

The Kerala DestinationThe Kerala Destination

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Sri.V. S.Achuthanandan

Ex-Chief Minister

Sri. Pinarayi VijayanChief Minister

Sri. Oommen ChandyEx-Chief Minister

Sri. K. Suresh KurupMLA

Sri. Kadakampally SurendranTourism Minister

Sri. Ramesh ChennithalaOpposition Leader

Sri. A. P. MoideenIndustries Minister

Sri. V S SunilkumarMinister for Agriculture Sri. Thomas Issac

Finance Minister


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This is a publicationmeant for tourismawareness and tourismdevelopment withpublic participation.

Puplished byKerala TourismEnterprisesKarimpatta RoadPallimukkuCochin -16

Courtesy :Kerala TourismDepartment Service.

Ajith MathewCo-ordinator

[email protected] free distribution only2016 - Edition

The Kerala Destination 2016. is a directory, con-taining tourist - information for the state ofKerala .It gives you all the essential and impor-tant information needed for moving around thestate.

The infrastructure development inside the stateis one area to which the ruling Government hasbeen giving top priority ,as part of its develop-ment agenda and also to attract more and moretourists from all over the world. Of late the com-petition from Sri Lanka has alerted the state toimprove upon the quality of service in tourismsector and bring them on par with internationalstandards.This directory provides you with theupdated information on such added facilities andservices.

We are greatly thankful to all all our advertisersand other well - wishers who helped us to bringout this publication.

KERALA TOURISM, AYURVEDA,HOTELS & TRAVELS DIRECTORY

01-11-2016

The Kerala Destination - 2016Directory of Kerala Tourism,Ayurveda, Hotels & Travels

The Kerala Destination - 2016Directory of Kerala Tourism,Ayurveda, Hotels & Travels


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Kerala Tourism is graduallyrising to internationalstandards, with the aid ofinnovative technologyapplications. The moderndigital technology has helped itto record notableachievements in the recentyears.

Apart from the traditionalinflow from western countries,tourists in large numbers arearriving to Kerala from moreand more countries like SaudiArabia,South Korea, Japan,China and so on.. The state'srevenue from tourism sector isestimated at around Rs.25000crores per annum. It is furtherestimated that an additionalrevenue of around Rs.5000crore will be generated withinthe next two years.

Yet the growth rate is poorwhen compared with the rateof 15% per annum beingrecorded by Sri Lankan Tourismmainly with the help of

tourists'arrival from China.The developments in basic infrastructure made by SriLanka during recent years are tremendous.

Farm Tourism

Tourism in Kerala has undergone a sea change with the advent of Farm Tourismand spread of Home Stays all over the state .More and more Farms and Plantationsare entering into tourism activities ,which fetch them substantial profits.Theavailability of fresh farm- produced fruits and vegetables is a great attraction totourists.They also cherish the sight of farming activities .

Special aid to Physically Challenged

The Tourism Department has introduced special vehicles,wheel chairs,ramps,mobile

KERALA


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ramps and so on for the use of physically challenged tourists.Language assistanceis rendered to hearing- impaired .Signboards in braille language are being fixedat major picnic spots .Menu cards in braille language are introduced inrestaurants.Facilities like pre recorded travel information,medical aid ,walkingsticks,crutches, special vehicles for beach rides and the like are also being provided.

Domestic Tourism

The Central Government has announced investment of Rs.50000 crore in domestictourism sector. The main objectives are to ensure safety and security of touristspots,and introduction of helpline numbers with option to communicate in 12different languages .

With all these new initiatives the state's tourism is all set to make a great leapforward.

Density : 819/sq. k.m.Literacy : 90.92%Male : 87.86%Female : 94.20%Assembly Constituencies : 140Loksabha Constituencies : 20Rajya Sabha Seats : 9Districts : 14District Panchayats : 14Panchayaths : 991Villages : 1452Taluks : 63Revenue Division : 21Corporations : 5Municipalities : 53Contonment : 1 (Kannur)Coast Line : 580 k.m.Rivers : 44Official animal : ElephantOfficial Bird : VezhambalOfficial Tree : CoconutOfficial flower : KanikonnaLongest River : Periyar (244 k.m.)Highest Peak : Anamudi (2695 mtr.)Post Offices (2002) : 5073Railway Stations : 188Airports : 4Ports : 18Roads Length : 1,37,678 k.m.


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GEOGRAPHY

The land of Kerala is situated at the South Western edge of Indian sub-continent between theWestern ghats and Arabian Sea. It is having an area of 38863 sq. km which constituted 1.18percent of the total landed area of India. While the distance between the northern and southernends of the state is 560 km, it is only 60 kms between the eastern and western ends.

The epics says that Kerala was created from sea by Parasurama, the warrior-incarnation ofLord Mahavishnu, who threw an axe from Gokarna in the north, which went as far asKnyakumari, in the south end full there, converting the sea in between into mainland.The northern and north eastern part of the state are boardered by Karnataka and southernand south east parts share borders with Tamilnadu.

Geographically, the state is divideds into three zones, one consisting of hilly, terrain (Malanad)another moderately hilly and plain land (Idanad) and the third, coastal land (Threeradesam),stretching throught the eastern border lies the ‘Sahya ranges, an extension of might WesternGhats. The tallest peak of western Ghats called ‘Anamudi’ is also located in Kerala. While48% of total area of the state is such hilly region, 41.76 % is idanad, consisting of hillocks andagricultural land. The costal area consited of 3979 sq km with lakes, estnanies deltas etc...The coatal belt is also the densely populated of the state.

There are 34 lakes in the coatal Kerala out of which 27 are linked to the sea. There isalso a waterways connecting 448 km of coastal land.

Being near to the equater Kerala experiences equitorial climate. However, the nearnessto sea helps to have a failrly balanced weather condition. The land invariably gets two spellsof monsoon rains every year, the first spell during June to September and secondfromOctober to December. While January and February winter months, from Marchto May it is summer.

Climate : TropicalSummer : Feb - May (24- 330C)Monsoon : Jun - Sep (22-280C)Winter : Oct- Jan (22-320C).Basic InformationsArea : 38,863 sq. kmPopulation : 3,33,87,677 (Census 2011)Capital : Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum)Language : Malayalam; English is widely spokenReligion : Hinduism, Christianity, IslamTime : GMT+ 5:30Currency : Indian RupeeRural Population : 2,35,71,484 (74.03%)Urban Population : 82,67,135 (25.97%)

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T H I R U V A N A N T H A P U R A MArea: 2132 sq Rm · Altitude: Sea level

Located at the southwestern tip of India, Thiruvananthapuram district is bounded by theArabian Sea in the west and Tamil Nadu in the east. The wooded highlands of the

Western Ghats in the easternand northeastern borders giveThiruvananthapuram some ofthe most enchanting picnicspots. A long shoreline, withinternationally renownedbeaches, historic monuments,backwater stretches and a richcultural heritage make thisdistrict a much sought aftertourist destination.Thiruvananthapuram is thecapital of Kerala.Capital of the State, well renownbeach resort at Kovalam,Mountain resort at Ponmudi,Water resorts at Veli, Akkulam.

Agasthyakoodam forest range, Dams like Peppara and Neyyar, Pilgrim centers such asSivagiri, Anchu Thengu, Aruvikkara, Thiruvallam, Shri Padmanabha Swami Temple,Palayam Mosque, Kanakakkunnu and Kavadiyar Palaces, Napier Museums, Zoo, StarBunglaw, Vikram Sara Bhai Space Centre are the main attractions in Thiruvananthapuram.

ACCESSING THIRUVANANTHAPURAM

Telephone access code: ++91-471

Air: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (6 km from the city) has over 30 air linkswith convenient connections to Colombo, Maldives and the Middle East. Indian Airlinesand Jet Airways operate domestic flights to different parts of the country.

Rail: There are direct trains from Thiruvananthapuram to all the main towns in Keralaas well as the major cities in India. Railway enquiry Ph: 131.

Road: Long distance buses operate from the Central Bus Station at Thampanoor,opposite the Railway Station (KSRTC Ph: 2323886, Thiruvalluvar Ph: 2327756).

MAJOR ATTRACTIONS IN THIRUVANANTHAPURAM CITY

Padmanabha Swamy Temple: The temple is located inside the East Fort. Dedicated toLord Vishnu, the temple is a blend of the Kerala and Dravidian styles of architecture. It is


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known for its mural paintingsand stone carvings. Oneamong the 108 sacred Vishnutemples in India, the presidingdeity here is Lord Vishnureclining on Anantha theSerpent.

K u t h i r a m a l i k a(Puthenmalika) PalaceMuseum : The palace wasbuilt by Maharaja SwathiThirunal Balarama Varma -the King of Travancore, whowas a great poet, musician,

social reformer and statesman. This rare specimen of workmanship in the traditionalTravancore style of architecture also has exquisite wood carvings.

The Napier Museum: Built in the 19th century, this Indo - Saracenic structure boasts anatural air conditioning system and houses a rare collection of archaeological and historicartefacts, bronze idols, ancient ornaments, a temple chariot and ivory carvings.

Chacha Nehru Children’s Museum: Children of all age groups will enjoy the vastcollection of nearly 2000 dolls, stamps and masks displayed here.

Observatory: Located at the highest point in the city, near the Museum complex 60metres above sea level, one can have a bird’s eye view of the city from here.

The Kanakakunnu Palace: The palace and its sprawling grounds are today the venuefor many cultural meets and programmes.

Secretariat: Built in the Roman architectural style, this is the centre of governmentadministration in Kerala and houses the offices of ministers and the bureaucracy.

Kerala Legislature Complex: Located at Palayam, this is the new building where theLegislative Assembly of Kerala meets. With its towering dome, exquisitely carved galleries,ornate teak panelling and ceiling, combined with the most modern acoustic treatment andstate-of-the-art sound systems, the hall is a beautiful blend of classical grandeur andmodernity.

Shankhumugham Beach: The beach is adjacent to the Thiruvananthapuram Airport andVeli Tourist Village. An indoor recreation club, the matsya kanyaka (a gigantic, 35 m longsculpture of a mermaid) and a restaurant shaped like a starfish are some of the attractionshere.

The Zoological Park: One of the first zoos in India, it is located in a well-planned botanicalgarden. With huge trees like frangipani and jacaranda dotting the sprawling lawns and


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wild fowl swimming in the lake, it is like a small jungle in the heart of the city.

Science and Technology Museum Complex: The exhibits here are related to science,technology and electronics.

Veli Tourist Village: This picnic spot, where the Veli Lake meets the Arabian Sea, offersboating facilities. Pedalboats and paddleboats can be hired to explore the charms of thelagoon in a leisurely manner.

Akkulam Tourist Village: A picnic spot with boating facilities, Akkulam is a place childrenflock to.

Thiruvallam (10 km): This serene backwater stretch, enroute to Kovalam, is famous forits canoe rides.

Kovalam Beach (16 km - 1/2hour): This internationallyrenowned beach has been afavourite haunt of touristssince the 1930s. Kovalamconsists of three adjacentcrescent beaches. Thesouthernmost, known as theLighthouse Beach, is the mostpopular. Kovalam offersaccommodation options tosuit all budgets.

Parasurama Temple,Thiruvallam (7 km): This 2000 year old temple on the bank of river Karamana, is the onlyone in Kerala dedicated to Sree Parasurama, the mythological creator of Kerala.

Aruvikkara Dam (16km -1/2, hour): This picturesque picnic spot is on the banks of theKaramana River.

Sree Chithra Art Gallery: Located near the Napier Museum, this art gallery displaysselect paintings of Raja Ravi Varma, Svetlova and Nicholas Roerich and exquisite worksfrom the Rajput, Mughal and Tanjore schools of art in India. The collection also includespaintings from China, Japan, Tibet and Ball.

Agasthyakoodam: Part of the Sahyadri range of mountains, Agasthyakoodam is thesecond highest peak in Kerala, at a height of 1890 metres above sea level. Teeming withwildlife, the forests of Agasthyakoodam abound in rare medicinal herbs and plants andbrilliantly hued orchids. A bird watcher’s paradise, this legendary mountain is accessibleby foot from Kotoor, near Neyyar Dam, as also from Bonacaud.

Varkala (40 km - 1 hours): Varkala is a seaside resort and spa. It is also an importantHindu centre of pilgrimage. The final resting place of the great social reformer, Sree


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Narayana Guru, is near Varkala, atop a hill called Sivagiri. High cliffs with mineral springsrise majestically from the coastline. The place where they prayed for redemption, came tobe known as the Papanasham Beach (Papanasham means redemption from sins). The2000 year old Sree Janardhana Swamy Temple and the Nature Cure Centre are the twomain attractions here. A century old tunnel is another attraction.

Attukal Pongala : The ten day Pongala festial held at Attukal Bhagavathy Temple, 2kmfrom Thiruvananthapuram, attracts thousands of femaledevotees from many parts of the country. Men are notallowed in the vicinity of the temple during the pongala.Pongala, a kind of sweet porridge, considered to be thegoddess’ favourite offering, is cooked by each devotee ina clay pot over an open fire. The long line of womenmaking the ritual offering extends up to East Fort andbeyond.

The Folklore Museum set up in 1992 is a treasure house of quaint musical instruments,occupational implements, household utensils, models of folk arts etc.

Anjengo Fort : (20 km South of Varkala) Originally built by the Portuguese as a depot tostore merchandise, it was converted into a fort by the British, Sandwiched between thesea and the backwaters, the fort premises shelter ancient tombstones and a garden.Sivagiri Mutt: 200 acres of sanctified land, this is the final resting place of the mosteminent leader , saint and social reformer of Kerala, Sree Narayana Guru, SNDP (SreeNarayana Dharma Paripalana Yogam), the organization he founded for the upliftment ofbackward classes, is headquartered here. The Mahasamadhi of the revered guru islocated on top of a hillock. Further down is the guru’s residence, where his humblebelongings are kept on display. Ph : 0470-2602807, 2602455

CELEBRATEOnam : (August/September)

Onam is one of the most widely celebrated festivals inKerala, and it commemorates the legendary rule of KingMahabali, under whose reign, the people were so happythat it aroused the jealousy of the gods.

Chandanakudam Mahotsavam : This colourful Islamic Festival is celebrated tocommemorate Bee Umma, a saintly lady, whose tomp is in Beemapally, nearThiruvananthapuram.

Vizhinjam Rock Cut Cave Temple: (17km – 1/2 hour): There are rock cut sculptures of the18th century in the cave temple at Vizhinjam.

Sree Mahadeva Temple: Situated in Kazhakuttom, this ancient temple is believed to dateback to the 14th century. Another old temple in the district is the Mitranandapuram Templeon the outskirts of the city.


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Koyikkal Palace, Nedumangad (18 km -1/2 hour): Located on the way to the PonmudiHill Station and the Courtallam waterfalls, this ancient palace dates back to the 15th

century. Here you can see a doublestoreyed traditional Nalukettu buildingwith slanting gabled roofs, an innercourtyard and museums of folkloreand numismatics set up by theDepartment of Archaeology.

The Numismatics Museum housesrare and historically valuable coinsdenoting the trade relations of state.

Neyyar Dam (32 km - 1 hour): Apopular picnic spot, Neyyar Dam has

a watch tower, Crocodile farm, lion safari park and deer park. Boating facilities are availableat the reservoir.

Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary: (50 km from Thinrvananthapuram): This sanctuary spreadover 53 sq. km on the Western Ghats, is accessible from Vithurai, which is on the way toPonmudi. With its rich flora and fauna, Peppara, dotted with hillocks, forests and eucalyptusplantations, is emerging as a great attraction for wildlife enthusiasts.

Ponmudi (61km - 2'/2 hours): An idyllic hill resort with narrow, winding pathways and cool,green, wooded environs, Ponmudi is located 915 metres above sea level.

Padmanabhapuram Palace (52 km - 2 1/2 hours. Closed on Mondays): The seat of theerstwhile rulers of Travancore, this splendid palace is situated at Thuckalai, on the wayto Kanyakumari. This is a well preserved wooden palace, a glorious testimony to thetraditional Kerala school of architecture. The extraordinary murals, exquisite floral carvingsand the black glossy granite floor have withstood the test of time.

Chowera : (8 km south of Kovalam) Thisfishing hamlet near Kovalam has manypicuturesque spots.

Poovar : An isolated but spectacular beach,Poovar is situated close to the Neyyar Riverestuary. A trading port in its early days, it istoday an important tourist destination.


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HOTELS AND RESORTS IN THIRUVANANTHAPURAM

Tariff* Telephone #Vivanta by Taj 7500-25000 6612345Windsor Rajadhani 4500-10000 2547777SP Grand Days 4000-7500 2333344Mascot Hotel 4500-20000 2318990Classic Avenue 4000-7000 2333555The South Park 5000-9500 2333333The Residency Tower 6000-10500 2331661Hotel Keys 3000-5000 3944100Hotel Saj Lucia 3000-6000 2463443Maurya Rajadhani 3500-8000 2469469The Grand Central 1900-4100 2575227Hotel Ruby Arena 1800-3500 2557474Horizon 1600-4000 2326888Magic Days 1600-2200 4076000Hotel Pankaj 1350-3300 2464645Hotel Park Rajadhani 1300-1900 2447307Jeekay Palace 1013-3825 2334005Hotel Indrapuri 999-1650 2332424The Capital 900-2500 2471987Hotel Prasanth 900-3500 2316189Hotel Blue Nest 700-3000 3012800Hotel Thampuru International 1800-2400 2321987Jas Hotel 995-2750 2324881Hotel Regency 620-1740 2330377KTDC Chaithram 600-1500 2330977Hotel Thara International 600-1750 2494888Hotel Surya 550-1500 3812088Ariya Nivas 550-1207 2330789Hotel Silver Sand 900-2020 2460318Hotel Safari 500-800 2477202Hotel Amritha 495-862 2323091Hotel Highland 470-1200 2333200

KOVALAM (+91-471)

The Leela 11000-64000 2480101Turtle on the Beach 8500-13250 2514000Surya Samudra 13000-35000 2267333Karikkathi Beach House 5600-16800 2400956Poovar Island Resort 9500-12000 2212068


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Hotel Samudra (KTDC) 3800-11500 2480089Nikki’s Nest 4500-6500 2267822Ashatheeram Beach Resort 3190-3520 2267566Isola Di Cocco 7500-11600 2210008Estuary Island 3000-9500 2214355Beach and Lake Ayurvedic Resort 2860-4125 2382086Uday Samudra 2530-7150 2483111Lagoon Davina 2500-6500 2380049Kadaloram Beach Resort 2500-6000 2481116Hotel Abad Palmshore 2500-5510 2481481The Travancore Heritage 2450-11900 2267828Thapovan Heritage Home 2365-4125 2482430Somatheeram Ayurvedic Health Resort 2200-11275Coconut Bay 2200-7865 2480566Hotel Sea Face 2000-7000 2481835Dr. Franklin’s Panchakarma Institute 1925 2480870Jeevan Ayurvedic Beach Resort 1800-4000 2480662Jasmine Palace 1800-3500 2481475Sagara Beach Resort 1700-2700 2484077Raja Hotel 4650-2070 2480355Ideal Ayurvedic Resort 1540-3300 2268632Bethsaida Hemitage 1500-3500 2267554Temple Garden 1500-2500 2481972Hotel Thushara 1500-2000 2480692Manaltheeram Beach Resort 1485-10010 2566222Hotel Neelakanta 1300-4000 2480321Hotel Aparna 1250-1500 2480951Hotel linchu Holiday Resort 1250-3500 2481010Pappukutty Beach Resort 1250-1450 2480235Swagath Holiday Resorts 1200-6000 2481148Marine Palace 1200-3600 2481428Royal Retreat Cottage 1000-1800 2481080Somatheeram Ayurvedic Beach Resort 935-1285 2268101Hotel Blue Sea 850-3500 2481401Hotel Rockholm 850-4000 2480606Hotel Sreevisakh 800-2000 2480445Ayurvedic Beach Resort 600-1200 2480634Hotel Seaweed 600-1400 2480391Hotel Volga palace 600-1500 2483286Hotel Silver Star 600-800 2482983Hotel Orion 500-300 2480999Hotel Hawah Beach Resort 500-3000 2481951


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VARKALA (+91 470)The Gateway Hotel 7000-10500 2603000Hindustan Beach Resort 3500-5500 2604254Deshadan Cliff and Beach Resort 3200-6500 2604863Krishnatheeram Ayur Holy Beach Resort 2000-4250 2601305Thanal Beach Resort 2000-3200 2604342Green Palace Seaside Hotel 2000-3000 2610055Blooming Bay Beach Resort 1500-4500 3205151Varkala Marine palace Beach Resort 1500-4200 2603204Signature Residence 1500-3500 2612749Sea Breeze, The Seaside Resort 1500-3100 2603257Thiruvambadi Beach Retreat 1200-7500 2601028Mom Lekha’s Private Resort 1200-2500 3207616Hotel Varkala Park International 1100-1600 2605958SS Beach Resort 1000-2500 2608844Sini’s Beach Resort 1000 9895925298Hill Palace Beach Resort 900-1400 2610142Golden Ayurvedic Beach Resort 850-4000 2609555Kerala Bamboo House 800-2000 3208587Hotel Karthika 650-1200 2602014Preeth Beach Resort 600-2800 2600942Claufouti Beach Resort 500-5000 2601414Raja Park 500-3200 2607060Blue Marine Beach resort 500-2500 2604758Wood House Ayurvedic Beach Resort 500-2500 2156392Hill Top 500-2000 2601237Sea Pearl Chalets 500-1200 2660105Santaclaus Village Resort 400-2500 9249121464Udathi-Arabian Soul 400-1500 26005858Nikhil Beach Resort 300-1900 2600583Anandan Tourist Home 300-1200 2602135Akshaya Beach Resort 200-2000 2602668


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K O L L A MArea : 2579 sq.km

Population : 2,584,118 (2001 census)

Altitude : Sea Level

Located 71 km to the north ofThinrvananthapuram, Kollam is the centre of the country’scashew trading and·processing industry. One of the oldest ports on the Malabar coast,Kollam was once the port of international spice trade. Thirty percent of this historic town,is covered by the renowned Ashtamudi Lake, making it the gateway to the magnificentbackwaters of Kerala The eight hour boat trip between Kollam and Alappuzha is thelongest and most enchanting experience on the backwaters- of Kerala.

A C C E S S I N G K O L L A M

Telephone access Code : +91-474

Tourist information offices

DTPC Tourist Information Centre, KSRTC Bus Stand Ph: 2745625, DTPC Tourist Officre,Guest House Complex, Asramam Ph: 2750170, Deparment of Tourism - District Office,Govt. Guest House. Ph: 2743620

In and around Kollam

Kollam Beach : (3 km south of Kovalam) An array of beach activities attract thousandsof tourists throughout the year to this perfect beach setting offering panoramic viewsof the Arabian Sea. A port city and one time active harbour for Chinese ships andtrade, Kollam is home to Chinese fishing nets, Chinese water pots and sampan-like boats seen even today.

Matha AmrithanandamayiAshram, Vallikavu : (14 km fromAlumkadavu) The residence andheadqauters of MathaAmrithanandamayi is situated atArrithapuri near Vallikavu, whereshe was born. Called Amma bydevotees all over the world, sheis recognized as an extraordinaryspiritual leader by the UnitedNations and was honoured withthe Gandhi-King Award fro non-violence in 2002. Accessible both by road and boat, the five-acre ashram holds a self-contained township where food and accommodation is free.


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Thangasseri : Only 3 km from the town at Thangassery stand the ruins of a fort originallyconstructed by the Portuguese and later taken over the Dutch.

Thenmala: Strung along the area by dense forest, rubber and tea plantations. The richgreenery is the main attraction Ofthe place, 66 km from KollamIndia’s first planned eco-tourismproject is situated here, over looksthe Dam site.

Kottukal Rock Cut Cave Temple: This temple is situated on theThiruvananthapuram KottayamM.C. Road is an idyllic example ofrock cut temple architecture.

Rameswara Temple : Thistemple Shows pandyan influence

in its design and has inscriptions In Tamil, dating from the 12th to the 16th centuries.

Sasthamkotta : About 28 km from Kollam, there lies the vast fresh water lake sourendedby hills on three sides is the largest of its kind in Kerala and also knows as an importantpilgrim centre.

Mayyanad : (10 km south of Kollam town):Noted for its shrines and temples. The mostimportant of the nine temples here is the Subramanya Temple at Umayanallor.

Picnic Village : Located on the backwater front at Ashramam, this is the main centrefor recreational activities in Kollam.

Jatayupura : A huge rock at Chadayamangalam takes its name from the mythical birdJatayu in the epic Ramayana, Who is believed to have collasped on the rock after failingin his attempts to thwart Ravana’s kidnapping of Sita.

Thirumullavaram Beach: Escape to the beautiful Sandy beaches edged with whiteclouds, the swaying palms, and the friendly local tourists is known picnic spot.

Mahatma Gandhi Beach and Park : (2 km north of Kollam towns: Ideal spot for shortoutings, picnics etc.

Palaruvi Waterfalls: Overwhelmed by the sheer beauty and power of this massivecurtain of water and clouds of spray from a height of more than 300 ft dashing therocks on it’s way down. Stream of milk means Palaruvi located 75 km from Kollam.

Achankovil : One of the main temples of Lord Ayyappa, it is believed that the idol here isconsecrated by Lord Parasurama himself. This temple is similar to the famous shrine atSabarimala. The Manalar Falls and the Kumbuvurutty Falls, which also has a NatureInteraction Centre, are on the way to this temple.


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Ashtamudi Backwaters: So calledbecause of its 8 arms or channels,Ashtamudi Lake is the gateway to thebackwaters. This 16 km long lake is thesecond largest in Kerala, finding its wayinto the sea through the Neendakaraestuary. The Kollam Boat Club providesboat rides as well as houseboat cruises.The trip between Kollam and Alappuzhais one of the most popular and longestbackwater cruises in Kerala. The eight-hour journey will give you an intimateexperience of the famed waterways.

Neendakara: (8 km from Kollam) A famous fishing harbour, you can see the AshtamudiLake joining the sea from the Neendakara Bridge and also the Chinese fishing netssilhouetted against the sky.

Hotels & Resorts(Tharrifs are subject to change)Kollam (+91-474) Tariff(RS.) Tel: (0474)Beach Orchid Hotel & Convention Centre 5950-17000 2769999Club Mahindra Ashtamudi Resorts 5500-8500 0476-2882310Aadithya Resort Lakeside 3950-6900 0476-3252190Aquaserene 3200-6000 2512410The Vijaya Castle 2400-5500 2831348Hotel Bonna Castle 1500-4000 2766696Nila Palace 1500-4000 2529301Yatri Nivas 1400 2745538Navi Hotels & Resort 1050-3500 2751141Hotel Comfort Regency 900-1700 2731901Hotel Sudarsan 600-1750 2744322Green Channel Resort 600-960 2628134Kodiyil Residency 500-1500 3018030Palm Legoon 400-800 2549500Beach Retreat 400-1250 2763793Sea Bee 200-2200 2744697Hotel Vrindavan 2222961Kannur Palace Leisure Hotel 2230400Tourist Information Office : DTPC 2745625DTPC Asramam. 275017Deptmnent of Tourism - District Office. 2743620


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E R N A K U L A MArea : 2408 sq.km Altititude:Sea level

Ernakulam is located on thecost of the Arabian Sea withKottayam and alappuzhadistricts in the south, Idukki inthe east and Thrissur in thenorth. The commercial capitaland the most cosmopolitancity of Kerala, Kochi inErnakulam, is also known asthe Queen of the Arabian Sea.W ith one of the fiest naturalharbours in the world, this wasonce a major centre ofcommernce and trade of theArabs, Chinese, Portugues, Dutch, British etc.

ACCESSING ERNAKULAM (+91 0484)

Jew Town: The area around the Synagogue is a centre of spice trade and curio shops.

Bolgatty Island: This tropical island is famous for its place of the same name. TheBolgatty Palace was built in 1744 by the Dutch and later taken over by the British.Today it is a hotel run by the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation, with a smallgolf course and special honeymoon cottages.

Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace) : Built by the Portuguese in 1557 and presentedto Raja Veera Kerala Varma of Kochi, the place was renovated in 1663 by the Dutch.On display here are beautiful murals depicting scenes from the epics, Ramayana andMahabharatha, and some of the Puranic Hindu legends.

Cherai Beach: This lovely beach bordering Vypeen island is ideal for swimming.dolphins are occasionally seen here. A typical Kerala village with paddy fields andcoconut groves nearby is in added attraction.

Willington Island : Named after Lord Willingdon, a former British Viceroy to India, thismanmade island is surrounded by beautiful backwaters. The island is the site ofthe city’s best hotels and trading centers, the Port Trust and the headquarters of thesouthern naval command.

The Hill Palace Museum, Tripunithura : 10 km from Kochi, Hill Palace, the officialresidence of the erstwhile Kochi royal family, was built in 1865. The complex consistof 49 buildings in the traditional architectural style of Kerala and is surrounded by

Bolgatty Palace


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52 acres of terraced land with a deer park. A full-fledged ethno archeological museumand Kerala’s first ever heritage museum are the main attractions.

Synagogue (Open 1000-12 hrs, 1500-1700hrs. Closed on Saturdays and Jewishholidays): Constructed in 1568, this is theoldest synagogue in the commonwealth.Destroyed in a shelling during thePortuguese rain in 1662, it was rebuilt twoyears later by the Dutch. Known for mid-18th century hand painted, willow patternedfloor tiles from Canton in China, a clocktower, Hebrew inscription on stone slabs,great scrolls of the Old Testament, ancientscripts on copper plates etc.

Museum of Kerala History: The museum showcase historical episodes from theneolithic to the modern era through life figures. Light ‘n sound shows are regularlyorganised with commentaries in English and Malayalam. There is also a gallery ofpaintings and sculptures, displaying over 200 original works by contemporary Indianartists.

FORT KOCHI

Access: Backwater ferry/bus/auto rickshaw

A leisurely walk through the city is the best way to discover historic Fort Kochi. Anobscure fishing village that became the first European township in India, Kochi hasan eventful and colourful history. Its reputation as a seafaring commercial town wassuch that Nicholas Conti, an Italian traveller of the Middle Ages remarked. If Chinais where you make your money, then Kochi surely is the place to spend it.

The town was shaped by the Portuguese, the Dutch and later the British . The resultof these cultural influences are seen in the many examples of Indo-Europeanarchitecture that still exist here.

PLACES OF INTEREST IN FORT KOCHI

Chinese Fishing Nets/Vasco da Gama Square: These huge cantilevered fishing nets are thelegacy of one of the first visitors to the MalabarCoast. Erected here between 1350 and 1450AD by traders from the court of Kublai Khan,these nets are set up on teak wood and bamboopoles. The best place to watch the nets beinglowered into the sea and catch being broughtin is the Vasco da Gama Square, a narrowpromenade that runs along the beach. TheSquare is an ideal place to id le, with stalls


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serving fresh delicious seafood, tender coconut etc.

Vasco House : Believed to have been the residence of Vasco da Gama, this is oneof the oldest Portuguese residences in Fort Cochin.

Old Harbor House : This elegant old bungalow built in 1808 is in the possessionof Carrit Moran & Co., renowed tea brokers, who now use it as their residence. Thehouse was once a boat club.

Santa Cruz Basilica : This historic church was built by the Portuguese and elevatedco a Cathedral by Pope Paul IV in 1558. In 1795 it fell into the hands of the Britishwhen they took over Cochin, and was demolished. About a hundred years later BishopDom Gomez Ferreira commissioned a new building at the same site in 1857. Thechurch was proclaimed a Basilica in 1984 by Pope John Paul II.

Fort Immanuel : This bastion of the Portuguese in Cochin was a symbol of the strategicalliance between the Maharajah of Cochin and the Monarch of Portugal, after whomit was named. Built in 1503, the fort was reinforced in 1538.

St. Francis Church : Built in 1503 by Portuguese Franciscan friars, this is India’s oldestEuropean church. This was initially built of timber and later reconstructed in stonemasonry. It was restored in 1773 by the Protestant Dutch, converted to an Anglicanchurch by the British in 1795 and is at present governed by the Church of South India.Vasco da Gama was buried here in 1524 before his remains were moved to Lisbon,Portugal. The tombstone still remains.

Kumbalangi Tourist Village : Essentially a fishing hamlet, this tiny village facing theKochi backwaters in the western part of the city is India’s first designated ecotourismvillage and the first rural tourism village of the state. Kalagramam, an artist’s village,displays handicrafts and fishing equipment. Mangroves are nurtures here as well asfish farming. Bait fishing is extremely popular among tourists here.

The Dutch Cemetery : The tomb stones here are the most authentic record of thehundreds of Europeans who left their homeland on a mission to expand their colonialempires and changed the course of history of this land. The cemetery was consecratedin 1724 and is today managed by the Church of South India.

Pierce Leslie Bungalow: This charming mansion was the office of Pierce leslie &Co., coffee merchants, founded in 1862. A representative of the Fort Cochin colonialbungalow, this building reflects Portuguese.

Koder House : This magnificent building constructed by Samuel S. Koder of The CochinElectric Company in 1808 is a supreme example of the transition from colonial to Indo-European architecture.

The Bishop’s House : Built in 1506 as the residence of the Portuguese Governor, theBishop’s House stands on a little hillock near the Parade Ground. The facade of theHouse is characterised by larger Gothic arches, and has a circular garden path windingup to the main entrance.

David Hall : Though built around 1695 by the Dutch East India Company, David Hallgets its name from one of its later occupants, David Koder, a Jewish businessman.


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The Cochin Club : The club, with its impressive library and collection of sportingtrophies, is housed in a beautifully landscaped park.

Kothamangalam Martoma Cheriyapalli. : The mortal remains of Yeltho Mar Basalias,the Holy Bishop of Anthioch, are kept in this Church. To this place is famous pilgrimagecentre. The importanct festivel of the church is held in October 3rd every year.

Thattekkadu Bird Sanctury : (20 km from Kothamangalam on the Kochi - MunnanRoute. Open 0600 - -1700 hrs. This sanctury, nestled in evergreen forests, wasdiscovered by the renowned ornithologist of India, Dr. Salim Ali and is named after him,The sancury is noted for indigenous birds like the Malabar grey-hornbill, the woodpecker,the rose ringed and blue-winged parakeet etc. Rare birds like the Ceylon frog-monthand the rosebilled roller are also seen here. Divers migrant species home in hereduring the season. Wildlife can also be sighted often.

Munambam Beach : This is a beautiful, long beach near Munambam Fishing Harbour atthe northern end of Vypeen. Ideal for kite flying, the beach also has many village homestaysnearby.

Thakur House : This graceful building holds within itself a reflection of the colonialera. The Bungalow was built on the site of the Gelderland Bastion, one of the sevenbastions of the old Dutch fort. Earlier known as Kunal or Hill Bungalow.

Marine Drive : A popular hangout, this scenic stretch offers a spectacular view of thebackwaters and tht Kochi Harbour.Shopping malls, cinema halls,restaurants, cafes and supermarkets linethe drive. The Rainbow Bridge and theInternational Tourisn Boat Jetty Complexare other attractions here.

Vypeen Island : One of the biggest of theGoshree Islands, Vypeen has the mostcharming beaches ibn Kochi likeKuzhupilly, Puthuvype, Cherai andMunambam.

Willingdon Island : Named after LordWillingdon, a former British Victory ofIndia, this man-made island is

surrounded by beautiful backwaters. The island is the site of the city’s best hotels andtrading centres, the Port Trust and the headquaters of the Southern Navel Command.

SHORT TOURSVamanamoorthy Temple: Inscriptions from the 10th to the 13th century are found inthis temple in Thrikakkara, near Emakulam.

Santhanagopala-Krishnaswamy Temple: The original foundation of this temple waslaid in 947 AD according to the Inscriptions found here.


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Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary (20 km from Kothamangalam on the Kochi-Munnar route):This sanctuary, nestled in evergreen forests, was discovered by the renownedornithologist of India, Dr. Salim Ali and is named after him. The sanctuary is notablefor indigenous birds like the Malabar grey-hornbill, the woodpecker, rose-ringed andblue-winged parakeet etc.

Chendamangalam (42 km from Emakulam town): This is combination of three rivers,seven inlets, hillocks and vast expanse of green plains. The Paliam Palace, abodeof the Paliath Achans, hereditary Prime Ministers to the, erstwhile Maharajas of Kochi,represents the architectural splendor of Kerala. The Palace houses a collection of historicdocuments and relics. The hillocks at Kottayil Kovilakom presents the unusual sightof a temple, a church, a mosque and the remains of a Jewish synagogue, all situatednext to each other.

Kaladi (45 km from Emakulam town): The birthplace of Adi Sankaracharya, the greatAdvaita philosopher of the 8th century. Temples dedicated to Sri Sankara, Sarada Devi,Sri Krishna and Sri Ramakrishna add to the sanctity of the destination. A place calledCrocodile Ghat is where Sri Sankara took his vows of renunciation.

Bhoothathankettu (50 km north east of Emakulam town): A picturesque haven situatedin a vast virgin forest, this mythologically popular picnic spot lies close to the Salim AliBird Sanctuary at Thattekkadu.

Kodanad: Situated in the high ranges on the southern bank of the Periyar, Kodanad isa training centre for captive elephants. Elephants specially trained for safari are providedwith saddles for riding by tourists. There is also a mini zoo for wild animals here.

Malayatoor (47 km from Kochi): Malayattoor is famous For the catholic church on the609 m high Malayatoor hill (dedicated St· Thomas). Thousands of devotees undertakethe pilgrimage to the shrine to participate in the annual festival Malayatoor Perunnal(March/April). St. Thomas is believed to have prayed at this shrine.

HOTELS & RESORTS(Tariffs are subject to change)

Ernakulam (+91-484)Bharath Hotel 1200-4500 2305519Le Meridien 9500-30000 2705005Hotel Gateway 9500-18000 2371471Avenue Regent 6000-11000 2377688Royal Village 3500-4000 2381760Gokulam Park Inn International 3900-7000 2400707The Mercy 3400-5500 2367379Abad Plaza 3500-5000 2381122Bolgatty Palace 4800-15000 2750600


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The White Fort 3000-5500 2706953Avenue Center Hotel 3000-5500 2315301Pearlspot Resorts Ltd. 2700-5400 2371430The Renaissance 3300-6500 2344463Cherai Beach Resort 2500-12000 2481818Presidency 2500-4500 2394040Mermaid Days Inn 2600-9000 2307999The Woods Manor 2200-4200 2382055Hotel Sea Lord 2000-2900 2382473International Hotel 2700-5000 2382091Grand Hotel 2900-5000 2382061Hotel Mermaid Days Inn 1750-7500 2307999The Matropolitan 1700-2700 2377010Riviera Suites 2000-14500 2663474BTH Sarovaram 1000-4000 2305519The Surya 1400-3500 2455570Best Western Abad Fort 1300-2500 2228211Hotel Chandini Park 1000 2557628Hotel Yuvarani Residency 975-3850 2377040Star Homes Hotels 950-2695 2323051Aiswarya Hotel 850-1250 2364454Hotel Cochin Tower 780-3210 2401910Sree Krishna Inn 1000-2500 4050060Woodlands 1350-2850 2382051Best Western Gaanam Hotels 900-1200 2382051Hotel Excellency 1100-1700 2378251Winter Green Cottages 650-850 2380531Hotel Queens Residency 600-1000 2365775Bijus Tourist Home 442-1867 2381881Elite Tourist Home 400-810 2395692Good Sheperd Tourist Home 387-1462 2381163Hotel Sangeetha 350-1500 2376123Hotel Kavitha 350-1400 2350618Hotel Udipi 350-1000 2382071Hotel Vithaga 330-920 2363527Cochon Tourist Home 260-1200 2377577Ale’s Residency 250-1200 2370426Plazza Residency 195-900 2376408Adams Hotel 2377177AJ Residency 2531480


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ATS Willingdon Hotel 2667643Chandrika Residency 2361790Hotel KK International 2376010Matha Tourist Home 2395250Paulson Park 2378240FORT KOCHIMalabar House 22588-31142 2216666Brunton Boat Yard 26000-34000 2215461Koder House 11850-17940 2218485Killians 4750-8000 2217245Chiramel Reseidency 4300 2217310Fort Heritage 3312-5940 2215455Old Courtyard 3000-6000 2216302Hotel White Fort 3000-5500 2706955Fort House 2500-4300 2217103Ballard Bungalaw 1700-4500 2215854Hotel Sea Gull 600-1500 2217172

WILLINGDON ISLANDTaj Malabar 12500-22000 2668010The Trident 6500-10000 2669595Casino Hotel 7000-12000 2668421Kamyakam Haven 2900-3900 2432701ATS Willingdon 1050-2150 2669223Maruthi Tourist Home 550-2700 2666365

NEDUMBASSERYQuality Airport Hotel 2700-5000 2610366Golf View Hotel & Suites 2500-4500 2477411Abad Airport Hotel 2204-3876 2610411Flora Airport Hotel 2611520


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K O Z H I K O D EArea : 2,206 sq.km

Populat ion : 2,613,683

Literacy : 85%

Temperature : 350 C - 22.50 C

Winter : 320 C - 220 C

Once the capital of the powerful Zamorinsand a prom inent t rade an d commercecentre, Kozhikode was the most importantregion o f Malabar in the days gone by.Today lush green country sides, serenebeac hes, h is to r ic si tes, w ild li fesanc tu ar ies, r ivers, h il ls , a un iq ue acu ltural and a warm, fr iendly ambiencemake Kozhikode a popular destination.

ACCESSING KOZHIKODE

Telephone access code : ++91-495

Tourist Information Centres : Kozhikode Railway Stat ion. Karipur A irportPh : 722762, KTDC Tourist Reception Centres, Hotel Malabar Mansion Ph: 722391

Kozhikode Beach : This Beach is favourite of sunset viewers. Adding to itsnaturalbeauty is the old world charm retained in the old light house and the twocrumbling piers, each more than a hundred years old, that run into the sea.

Kapad : (16 km from Kozhikode): This is the Historic Beach where Vasco DaGama landed on the 27th of May 1498, with 170men in three vessels. A monumenton the beach commemorates this historic event. The rock studded beach islocally known as Kappakadavu. An interesting feature of the landscape is thesprawling rock that protrudes into the sea.

Beypore : (10 km South of Kozhikode) :Located at the mouth of the Chaliyar River,Beypore, one of the prominent ports andfishing harbours of ancient Kerala was animpo rtan t t rad e an d mari t ime c en tre.Ancient Beypore was much sought afterby merchants from Western Asia, for itsshipbuilding industry.

Kirtads : (7k m from Ko zh ikode): Th isun ique Museum h ouses th e to o ls anddevices used b y th e an c ien t t r ib alcommunities of Kerala.


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Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary : (25km from Kozhikode): The estuary at Kadalundy isa haven for migratory birds. Terns, gulls, herons, sandpipers, whimbrels andother exotic birds flock into this place in November and return home in April.

Kallai: This was once the second largest timber trading centre in Asia. A steelbridge built by the British is still intact here.

Kakkayam : (45 km from Kozhikode): This picturesque dam site, teeming withexotic wildlife, offers excellent trekking and rock climbing opportunities. Thebest time to visit is between November and April.

Regional Science Center : Situated on the same compound as the planetarium,Reg ional Sc ience Center is an eye opener in to the amazing and Exc it ingdimension of Science.

Peruvannamuzhi : (60 km from Kozhikode): The Peruvannamuzhi dam site setamid hills is a beautiful picnic spot. The reservoir here provides facilities forspeed and row boat cruises during which one can see the Smarakathottam - agarden built in memory of the freedom fighters of the region.

Tali Temple : Built in the 14th Century by Sami Thirumul Pad, the Zamorin, withinhis palace complex, this temple was the venue of Revathy Pattathanam, theannual cultural and intellectual event.

Pazhassi Raja Museum and Art Gallery : (5km from Kozhikode): On displayhere are cop ies o fan c ien t murals,antique bronzes, oldco in s, exc avatede a r t h e n w a r e ,models o f temples.M e g a l i t h i cmo nu ments likedo lmon o id cysts,umbrella stones etc.Ad jacent to theMu seu m is th e A rtGa llery wh ic hexhibits an excellent collection of paintings by Raja Ravi Varma and Raja RajaVarma.

Buddha Vihar : This temple houses a good collection of writings on the Buddha.

SM Street : Sweet meat is the busiest street in Kozhikode and derives its namefrom the times when the street was lined with sweetmeat stalls.

Planetarium :The Kozhikode Planetarium at the city’s Jaffarkhan colony offersextensive insight into the mysteries of the universe, the planets and the galaxies.

Jain Temple : The two temples in this compound at Trikkovil lane have exquisitelypainted interious and elaborately carved porticos.


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Malabar Houseboat Cruises: Ph: 2452045, 2452046

Kunhali Marikar’s Residence : (45 km from Kozhikode. Open 1000-1700 hrs)The fort of Kunhali Marikar, the heroic Zamorin who fought valiantly against thePortuguese, stands on Iringal Rock at Kottakal, en route to Vadakara. Unable todefeat him in battle, the Portuguese resorted to treachery and beheaded him inGoa. The sword and cannon ball used by the Zamorins is displayed in hishouse located 5 km off Payyoli.

Thusharagiri Waterfalls : (50 km from Kozhikode) Famous for its trekking tracks,Thusharagiri is located near Vythiri in Wayanad. Waterfalls and streams aboundin this hilly region.

Vadakara : (48 km from Kozhikode) The birth place of Thacholi Othenan- thelegendary hero of the Vadakkan Pattukal (the ballads of North Malabar), Vadakaraboasts a great martial t radition and also a flourishing trade and commercecentre in ancient times. Thacholi Manikkoth, the Kalari where Thacholi Othenanpractised his martial feats and spent long days in deep meditation before everypoythu (due), is a place worth visiting.

HOTELS & RESORTSKozhikodu (+ 91 495) Tariff (Rs.) Tel :The Gateway Hotel 4500-8500 6613000Kapad Beach Resort 2500-3000 0496- 2689191West Way 2500-4500 2768888Hill Side Resort 2500-3300 3244150Beach Hotel 2500 2762057Malabar Palace 1850-4350 2721511Asma Tower Hotel 1700-2100 2723560Malabar Gate 1600-4500 4088999East Avenue Suites 1500-3500 2367175North Park 1000-3500 0496 2526922Seaqueen Hotel 950-3000 2366604Park Residency 900-2500 2443381De Grand Heritage 800-3000 2725587Calicut Gate 800-1700 2443512Park Residency 800-2500 0496 2624641Hotel Span 700-2300 2302317Kovilakom Residency 650-1500 2743500Hotel Calicut Towers 600-2000 2723202Metro Manor 600-2000 2725811Hotel Maharani 550-3000 2723101Hotel The Hamlet 400-2300 2727535Sasthapuri Tourist Home 300-1150 2723281Aradhana Tourist Home 252-1310 2302021Alakapuri Guest House 250-1250 2723451Metro Tower 225-1300 2700571


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T H R I S S U R

Area: 3032 sq. km Altitlrde: Sea level

Cultural capital of Kerala, world famous Vadakkumnatha Kshethram and the Pooramfestival there, Guruvayoor Temple, Koodal Manikyam Temple, Cheraman Masjid the firstever mosque in Kerala, Kodungalloor Church, Kalamandalam at Cheruthuruthy,Athirappally-Vazhachal water falls, beaches at Chavakkad and Nattika, Peechi Dam,Agricultural University at Mannuthi, lots of festival are the features in which Thrissur isproud of.

Thrirssur, with its rich history cultural heritage and archaeological wealth is called thecultural capital of Kerala. From ancient times, this district has played a significant role inthe political history of South India. Many rulers and dynasties beginning with the Zamorinsof Kozhikode, Tipu Sultan of Mysore and Europeans inluding the Dutch and the Britishhave had a hand in moulding the destiny of this region. Raja Rama Varma popularlyknown as Sakthan Thampuran was the architect of the present Thrissur town. TodayThrissur is world famous for its Pooram festival. A cultural centre, the Kerala Kala Mandalam,the Kerala Sahitya Academy and Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Academy are located here.

Access in g T h r issu r

Telephone access code: ++91- 487

Inf ormat io n Cou nt ers

DTPC, Palace Road, Chembukkavu Ph: 2320800, Guruvayur Ph: 2550400

P laces t o V is i t

Art Museum: Located in the Zoo compound, the art museum displays collections ofwood carvings, metal sculptures and ancient jewellery. (Open 1000-1700 hrs on all daysexcept Mondays)

Archaeological Museum (Town Hall Road): Open from 1000-1700hrs except Mondaysand national holidays.


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Vadakkumnathan Temple:One of the oldest templesin the State, theVadakkumnarhan Temple isa classic example of theKerala style architectureand has many decorativemurals and pieces of art.This is the venue of the worldfamous Pooram festivalceleberated annualy in April-May.

Zoo (2 km fromThrissur town): Open from 0900 - 1700 hrs on all days except Mondays.

Aquarium: This is near Nehru Park (open 15:00 - 20:00 hrs).

Town Hall: Houses the Picture Gallery where mural paintings from all parts of Kerala areon display.

Vilangankunnu (7 km from Thrissur): This is a beautifull hill which is a good picnic spot.

Peechi dam (20 km east of Thrissur): This picnic spot offers boating facilities. Theie arefrequent private buses from Thrissur to Peechi Dam.

Kerala Kalamandalam, Cheruthuruthy (32 km north of Thrissur): Cheruthuruthy is theseat of the Kerala Kalamandalam, renowned the world over for its Kathakali trainingcentre. The music and dance academy was founded by the famous poet, VallatholNarayana Menon. Training in Kathakali, Mohiniyattom, Thullal and other art forms ofKerala is imparted here. Cultural programmes are also arranged.

Athirappally and Vazhachal Waterfalls: (63 km from Thrissur) The most famous waterfallsof Kerala, Athirappaly and Vazhachal are situatedon the Chalakudy River, which originates fromthe upper reaches of the Western Ghats. At theentrance to the Sholayar ranges is the largestwaterfall in Kerala. Athirapally, the Vazhachalwaterfall is close to dense green forests thatare home to many endangered and endemicspecies of flora and fauna. This is the only placein the Western Ghats where four endangeredHornbill species are seen.

Arattupuzha: This village is known for Pooaramfestival at the temple in April-May. The uniqueness of this festival is the ceremonialprocessions carrying the images of the deities of 41 neighbouring temples to this village.

Christian Divine Retreat Centres : They are located at Muringoor and Potta near Chalakudi,on the Kochi -Thrissur route.

Punnathoorkotta (2km from Guruvayoor): This home of 50 temple elephants offers


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unusual spectacles of the gentle pachyderm.

Irinjalakuda Koodal Manikyam Temple (21 km from Thrissur ) The ancient temple isdedicated to Lord Bharatha, the brother of Sri Rama. It is perhaps the only temple in Indiawith Bharatha as the deity. The colourful eleven day annual festival with a pageant ofthirteen caparisoned elephants is held in April/May.

Guruvayoor (23 km west of Thrissur):Guruvayoor is one of the most sacred andimportant pilgrim centres of Kerala. Itsmain attraction is the Sree KrishnaTemple. This historic temple is shroudedin mystery. According to belief, the templeis the creation of Guru, the preceptor ofthe Gods, and Vayu, the God of winds.The eastern nada is the main entrance tothe shrine. In the Chuttambalam (outerenclosure) is the tall 33.5 m high goldplated Dwajasthambam (flag-post). There is also a 7 m high Dipastambham (pillar oflamps), whose thirteen circular receptacles provide a truly gorgeous spectacle when lit.The square Sreekovil is the sacred sanctum sanctorum of the temple, housing the maindeity. Within the temple there are also the images of Ganapathy, Lord Ayyappa andEdathedattu Kavil Bhagavathy. Only Hindus are allowed inside the temple.Cheraman Juma Masjid, Kodungalloor: Located 2 km from Kodungalloor town, thismosque resembles a Hindu temple in appearance. Built in 629 AD, this is the first mosquein India and the second in the world where Juma prayers were started.Shakthan Thampuran Palace: Also known as Palace Thoppu, the campus covers anarea of 6 acres. Here you can see three shavakudeerams (tombs) including that ofShakthan Thampuran, the greatest ruler of the Cochin dynasty.

Punnathoor Kotta Elephant Sancturary : (2 km from Guruvayoor Open 0900 - 1800 hrs.)The palace grounds of the erstwhile Rajas of Punnathoor is today home to 60 templeelephants. All the elephants here are offerings from the devotees and the camp is the onlyone of its kind in the world.

Saint Thomas Memorial, Kodungalloor: St. Thomas is believedto have landed in Kodungalloor (formerly called Muziris) in 52AD. The St. Thomas Church established by him houses ancientrelics.

Muris Heritage Village : (35 km from Thrissur) The ancient portcity of muziris, once a major centre for trade and commerce,was the gateway for various religious faiths like Christianity,Judaism, Islam and Others. A thriving link in the Indo-Romantrade during the First Century BC, merchants from a number ofcultures are believed to have operated in this port. Gold coins,topaz, coral, copper, glass, wine and wheat imported from afar,while pearl, diamonds, saphire, ivory, silk, pepper and preciousstones were exported from the Kerala Coast. The Muziris


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Heritage Project is a unique heritage preservation cum-tourism project that providescircuit and timeline tours, culture tours, museum tours, backwater cruises etc. to helprediscover the imposing past of this exciting new find on the international archaeologicalmap.

Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary : (Varandarappilly Village, 37 km from Thrisuur) Located inthe Mukundapuram Taluk of Thrissur District, Chimmini is only a two hour drive fromKochi. With its dense forests, a variety of birds and butterflies, and innumerable treakkingtrails, this is a sanctury that provides a heady experience for nature enthusiasts.

Kodungalloor : (35 km from Thrissur) Once a maritime port of international repute becauseof its strategic location at the confluence of the Periyar River and the Arabian Sea,Kodungallor was considered the gateway to ancient India or the Rome of the East becauseof its status as a centre for trade. It was also the entry point of three major religions toIndia - Christianity, judaism and Islam.The Tiger Dance: Every year on the fourth day of Onam, Thrissur comes alive withthe rhythm of Pulikali or tiger dance. Traditional art forms, men painted like tigersdon masks and prowl about imitating the tiger. Hordes of people throng the SwarajRound, encircling the Thekkinkadu Maidan to witness the Pulikali, Believed to haveoriginated in the 18 th century when soldiers belonging to the army of SakthanThampuran first performed it.

HOTELS & RESORTS(Tharrifs are subject to change)

Thrissur (+91-487)AyuryogashramAyruvedic Resort 17500-32000 04884 237976Thalikkulam Beach Resort 3315-8775 2399843Kadappuram Beach Resort 3025-5225 2394988Hotel Lulu International 2500-5000 3011111Joys Palace 2400-7000 2429999Surya Ayurveda Health Resort 2340 2312240The River Retreat 2205-7200 04884 262244Hotel Ashoka Inn 2000-4500 2444333Hotel Dass Continental 1500-3500 2421514Trichur Towers 1200-4900 2425290Green Hattu Resort 1200-1700 04885 240736Hotel Deliza Residency 750-2100 04884 235646Casino Hotel 747-1840 2424699Hotal Kovilakam 700-1750 2339651Hotel Grand Park Regency 700-1600 2428247Zamorins Health Retreat 04885 22 349Hotel Elite International 610-3400 2421033Manappuram 600-2000 2440933Ayuryogashram 600-1200 04884 237976Sidhartha Regency 600-1200 2424773Hotel Pearl Regency 550-2200 2446661

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Majlis Ayurvedic Health Park 550-2072 2212845Yatri Nivas 500-1350 2332333Krihna Holiday Village 450-1000 2305533Hotel Cee Pee Tower 400-2000 2444666Hotel Luciya Palace 400-1200 2424731Hotel Palace Tower 400-1100 2331666Dhanya Resorts 400-750 2600455Hotel Love Shore Inn 300-2000 2386606Hotel Merlin International 300-1500 2385520Sea Fort 300-1200 24224067Kerala Darsan Heritage 250-2000 2603347Beach ResortHotel Pathans 250-950 2425620National Tourist Home 2424543Sreedhari Ayurvedic Resorts 2282441Athirapally (+91-480)Rain Forest 8500-14000 0484-2702222Riverok Villas 1500-3000 2769140Naduvilveettil Resort 1250-1750 2844273Richmond Cascade 1000-2000 2769024Pookondan’s 650-2300 2724012Pleasant ResidencyHill View Resort 600-1200 2769192Hotel Nalumakkal 600-1200 280555Hotel Kallada Regency 550-2000 2832601Plantation Vally Farm Resorts 2769361Guruvayoor (+91 487)Krishna Inn 2400-4500 2550777Yatri Nivas 1900-2500 2552408Vyshak International 950-2500 2550964Mangalya Tourist Home 900-1200 2554061Bhasuri Inn 885-4000 2558855Krishna Holiday Village 750-2000 2305533Hotel Sopanam Heritage 700-2100 2555244Elite 700-2000 2556216Sri Gokulam Vanamala 700-1700 2555213Hotel Nandanam (KTDC) 600-1200 2556266Nakshathra Inn 550-805 2550500Nirmalyam Retreat 550-750 2554483Gulfgage Nakshathra Inn 500-1700 2550500Poornima Tourist Home 500-1650 2556691Govindam Residency 500-1000 2552540Hotel Rvee’s Regency 495-1350 2554444Nandini Tourist Home 495-1100 2556509Ayodhya 460-1352 2556226Madhav Inn 430-9000 2552296Veeramani Tourist Home 350-1000 2555462Aradhana Tourist Home 200-1000 2556477


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P A T H A N A M T H I T T A

ACCESSING PATHANAMTHITTA

Telephone access code : Pathanamthitta : ++91-468, Adoor ++91-4734, Ranni: ++91-4735, Thiruvalla : ++91-469

Pathanamthitta, is well known as the headquarters of pilgrim worship in Kerla. mostof the Region is possessed by temples, rivers, mountain ranges and coconut gorvesis covered by forests. The district is frequnted by visitors from India and abroad oftenfor its water fiestas, religious shrines and the Cultural Training Centre. Pathanamthittais bordered by the Western Ghats in the east, Kollam district in the south, Alappuzhadistrict in the west and Kottayam and Idukki districts in the north.

Air:Nearest airport : Thiruvananthapuram (119km)

Rail : Nearest railway station: Thiruvalla (30 km): Chengannur (28 km)

Road : Pathanmthitta is well connected by an excellent netweok of roads to all majortown in Kerala.

Tourist Informations Offices : Tourist Information Office Ph: 2326409 Ph: 2326409 DTPCOffice Ph: 2229952, District Collector Ph: 2222505 Govt. Guest House Ph: 2328073

Places to visit

Sabarimala (65 km from Pathanamthitta town, 180 km from Thiruvananthapuram and210 km from Kochi): One of the most famous pilgrim centres in India, Sabarimala issituated on the mountain ranges of the Western Ghats at an altitude of 914 m abovesea level and isaccessible only by footfrom Pamba (4 km).The temple isdedicated to SreeAyyappa. Pilgrimseason: November tomid January.Mandalapooja andMakaravilakku are thetwo main events of thepilgrim season. Thetemple stays closed during the rest of the year except for the first five days of everyMalayalam month and during Vishu (April). Nearest railway station: Thiruvalla (102 km).People of all castes and creed are permitted into the temple. However, entry is notallowed to women between 10 and 50 years of age.

Pamba: This is the main halting point on the way to Sabarimala. It is also known asThriveni Sangamam - the meeting point of three rivers.


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Pandalam: (Nearest railway station: Chengannur - 14 km) As a holy town, Pandalamis perhaps second only to Sabarimala Sree Ayyappa, the presiding deity of Sabarimalahad his human sojourn here as the son of the Raja of Pandalam· Pilgrims usuallystop here to worship before proceeding to Sabarimala Three days prior to theMakaravilaku festival, the sacred ornaments of Sree Ayyappa are taken in a processionfrom Pandalam to Sabarimala.

Aranmula Kannadi :Aranmula is also famous for its metal mirrors,a unique craft which is not found anywhere else in the world.

Kakki Reservoir : Tigers, elephants and monkeys can be sightedin the forests surrounding the reservoir.

Moozhiyar (57 km from Pathanamthitta) : This is an enchantingdamsite.

Perunthenaruvi: One of the most relaxed and welcoming waterfallson the bank of Pamba River is an attraction to both foreign anddomestic tourists.

Mannadi : (11 km from Adoor) This is where Veluthampi Dalawa,the renowned freedom fighter of Travancore, spend his last days.

Moozhiyar: (57 km frorn Pathanamthitta) This is an enchanting damsite.

Malayalapuzha (8 km from Pathanamthitta): The goddess at the Bhagavathy Templehere is believed to grant boons to devotees and help them realize dreams.

Kadamanitta (8 km from Parhanamthitta): The Kadamanitta Devi Temple is famousfor the ten day long Padayani performances held in connection with the annual festivalin April May.

Maramon:The peaceful countryside of Kozhencherry, Maramon is the venue of aMarthoma relegious convention ofChristians from all over the world. It isattended by people from all communitiesand is the largest christian convention inAsia which is held in February.

Konni (11 km from Pathanamthitta): Anagricultural region, Konni is rich in cashcrops like rubber, pepper, coffee, ginger etc.It used to be a centre for training elephants.Konni is also known for its elephant ridesand the Anakoodu where elephants aretamed and trained for work.

Aranmula (Nearest railway station: Chengannur - IO km): The Parthasarathi Templea dedicated to Sree Krishna) on the banks of the holy river Pamba attracts large crowdsof devotees. The famed Aranmula boat race is held on the last day of the week long


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Onarn festival. The Vijnana Kalavedi Aranmula impartstraining in the traditional arts like Kathakali, classical dances,classical music, as well as Kalaripayattu.

Parumala : (10km from Thiruvalla and 5 km ahead of Nirnam)The Ormaperunnal (Commemoration day) of Mar GregoriousMetropolitan, the declared saint of Malankara Orthodox Church,is celebrated on the Ist and 2nd of November. Lakhs of pilgrimsflock here to ask favous of the saint at this 2000-year old churchbelieved to be one of the oldest in India.

Kodumon Chilanthiyambalam (15 Km from Pathanamthittatown): The water of the Chilanthikinar (well) in the premisesof this temple is believed to cure skin diseases.

Thiruvala is the headquarters of the Malankara MarthomaSyrian Church. The Paliakara Church here has someexquisite mural paintings. The Sree Vallabha Temple in Thiruvalla is perhaps the onlyone in Kerala where Kathakali is performed as a ritual offering everyday.

Niranam (7 km from Thiruvalla): The oldest Christian church in India, believed to bebuilt by the apostle St. Thomas in AD 52, is situated at Niranam

Nilackal (5 km from Plappally) : The old Siva Temple on the Pamba - PathanamthittaRoad an important place of worship. The estate of the Farming Corporation and theEcumenical centre of the Christians are located here.

Pathanamthitta town: This is the district headquarters.

Maniyar (20 km from Pathanamthitta) : This is a beautiful dam site.

Charalkunnu : This pituresques hill station offers a panoramic view of the nearby valleys.A camp house on the hill provides comfortable lodging. Ph : 0469-2672249

Cherukolpuzha: An important religious convention of the Hindus is held at Cherukoleon the river bed of the Pamba, usually in February every year.

Manjanikara Church: Mar Ignatius Elias III, the holy patriot ofAnchiod while on a visit to India, died at this place in 1932. Hismortal remains are preserved at this church. Later this placedeveloped into a pilgrim centre. The annual festival(Ormaperunnal) is held in February.

Gavi : (105 km from Pathanamthirra and 28 km from Vandiperiyer): Blanketed by tea plantations, Gavi near Kumily in Idukki District, isa picturesque destination. A haven for bird watchers with morethan 260 species of birds, Gavi has been developed into anexclusive ecotourism centre. Active involvement of tribals in itsdevelopmental activities make Gavi one of its kind in the country.

Parumala Thirumeni


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The two-hour jeep ride to this quiet haven passes through tropical forests, sprawingfrasslands and cardamon plantations.

Aranmula Boat Race : A majorattraction is the snake boat racesheld as part of the festival in August/September also known asAranamula Valamkalli. Each boathas a length of 100 ft and has 100oarsmen, 4 helmsmen and about25 singers. Large crowd gather onthe banks of the river to watch thisfantastic and most thrillingexperiences.

HOTELS & RESORTSPathanamthitta (+91-468) Tariff Phone

Contour Holiday Resorts 3300-9250 2249749Mannil Regency 375-800 2321605Hotel Saradhi 250-1700 2318257Shine Tower 2224869Amala 2222237Thiruvalla (+91-469)Hotel BessotaInternational 2000-4500 2631224Voyage Club 7 1250-6000 3051111Thilak 800-1200 2735911Aryas Park 497-880 2603736Hotel Elite Continental 450-1500 2602302Royal Indraprastha 450-1500 2712322Hotel Ashok International 400-1200 2602768DTPC Sathram Complex 2636541Padipura Yathri Nivas 94472 48977Mannas River Side Motel 04735-254899Adoor (+91-4734)Central Park Hotel 900-1000 220423Lal Residency 575-1250 226008Govt. AccommodationsGovt.Guest House (Tourism) 0468-2228073PWD Rest House 9497101679PWD Rest House, Thiruvalla 0469-2621321


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K O T T A Y A MBordered by the lofty Western Ghatson the east, and the Vembanad lakeand the paddy fields of Kuttanad onthe west, Kottayam is a land of uniquecharacteristics. Panoramic backwaterstretches, lush paddy fields,highlands, extensive rubberplantations and a totally literate peoplehave given this district the enviable title:The land of letters, latex and lakes.This land also boasts of the firstMalayalam Printing Press which wasestablished by Benjmin Bailey, a Christian missionary in 1820 AD.

Kottayam is the ideal take-off point for visits to Peermede, Munnar, Idukki, Thekkady,Ernakulam and the temple city of Madurai,

Accessing Kottayam

Area : 2203 sq.kmAltitude : Sea levelTelephone Code : +91-481

Kumarakom’ Bird Sanctuary : (16 km from Kottayam town) : Located on the banksof the Vembanad Lake, the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, an ornithologist’s paradise,is a favourite haunt of migratory birds like the Siberian stork, egret, darter, heron andteal. A cruise along the Vembanad lake is the best way to experience the sanctuary.

Daivathinte Munamb (7 km from Kumarakom) : Daivathine Munamb (God’s island), isan enchanting picnic spot which provides boating, fishing, and sighseeing experiences.Walking along the banks of the lake is a memorable experience. Village life of the localpeople can be observed very closely here. The small island, a little far away from themain shore is fascinating and offers a beautiful view of the sunset.

Kaippuzhamuttu (2 km from Kavanattinkara Boat Terminal): Houseboat making units,traditional coir makihg units, coconut processing centres, duck farms, paddy fields,migratory birds etc. are some of the attractions at this scenic place.

Kannadichal (3 km from Kumarakom) : Various types of traditional fishing techniquescan be seen in this village. During the harvest season, tonnes of paddy are harvestedfrom this place. Migratory birds and common birds can be seen here. The one hoursightseeing trip through the winding canal in acountry boat via Naragathara, Muthlymada,Mathrankiayal to Daivanthinte Munamb is an unforgettable experience.

Aymanam : (1.5 hour boat ride from Kumarakom): Arundhati Roy’s novel The God ofsmall things; is set in this beautiful village. It is a typical water based village with scenic


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backwaters and a vivid green network of rivers and canals and vast stretches of greenpaddy fileds and coconut farms. Migratory birds come seeking this verdant landscapeevery summer and frolic in its natural splendor. Country boat rides through the interiorcanals is a great way to relax and enjoy nature’s bounties.

Manchadikkari (4km from the Boat Terminal at Kavanattinkara) : Unending vast greenpaddy fiellds and vegetable farms, toddy tapping, net fishing country boat rides, screwpine weaving, coconut leaf weaving, traditional coir making unit, duck farms, bird watching,Machadikkari has much in store for tourists. This place provides a truly unique villageexperience. In this summer season, migratory birds like Sioberian stork, darter, egret,heron and common varieties like water hen, crane, skylark etc. can be spotted here.

Mooleapadom (4 km from Kavanattinkara) : The unique attraction here is the vallaveesaltype of Karimeen fishing (a special technique of fishing using tender coconut leaves thatare tied in ropes). Service of at least eight fishermen are required for this type of fishcatching.Kurisurmla· 3 km from Vazhikkadavu is thisrenowned Christian pilgrim centre wherehundreds of devotees from far and nearconverge during the holy week and after, toclimb the hill in faith, carrying small woodencrosses.

Anchuvilakku : This stone lamp post, atypical example of Kerala architecture, wasbuilt by the renowned freedom fighterVeluthampi Dalawa. The five lamps on thispost are) it using kerosene.

Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls : 2 km down a mud lane from Kumarakom is this beautiful picnicspot where streams tinkle as they make their way through the landscape and waterroars as they cascade down the mountains from a height of 100 ft.

Nadukani: A picturesque location at the top of a hill with endless stretches of meadowsgirded by huge rocks. a bird’s eye view of the low lying places can be enjoyed fromhere.

Ilaveezhapoonchira : Skirting the Kottayam district are beautiful valleys ofIlaveezhapoonchira, spread over thousands of acres. The verdant landscape punctuatedby four gigantic hills, each rising to around 3200 ft, is an ideal place to unwind.

Erumeli: This is also the entrance point to South India’s most prominent pilgrim centre- the Sabarimala Temple.

Tourist Land, Vaikom: This is a quaint picnic spot ideal for a langourous break.

Varambllam, Erumeli :This mosque is dedicated to Vavar, a companion of the deity -Sree Ayyappa - of the Sabarimala temple.


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Maniyakunnu: The majestic mountains here that slope down to meet the beautifulvalleys below are truly spellbinding.

St. Mary’s Church, Bharananganam: The mortal remains ofthe Blessed Alphonsa are entombed at this church which isnow a famous pilgrim centre.

Thangalppara: The mausoleum of Sheikh Fariduddin foundhere makes this place a famous Muslim pilgrim centre. Nearbyis the scenic hill station of Kurathikallu and the beautifulKottathavalam.

Kottathavalam: Near Murugan hills at Kurisumala, a flight ofsteps cut in the rocks takes one to this magnificent cave.Legends say that the royal family from Madurai rested here on their way to Poonjar.The rocks within the cave, carved like chairs and couches and the figures of MaduraiMeenakshi, Ayyappa, Murugan, Kannad and weapons sculpted on them, are all worthexploring.

The Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom :Kottayam is a vast network of rivers andcanals which empty into the greatexpanse of water called the Vembanadlake. The lake, an enchanting picnic spotand a fast developing backwater tourismdestination, provides boating, fishing andsightseeing experiences that are trulyexhilarating.

Pathiramanal : This 10 acre Island on the backwaters in home to many rare varietiesof migratory birds from different parts of the world. According to mythology a youngBrahmin dived into the Vembanad Lake to perform his evening ablutions and the watermade way for land to rise from below, thus creating the enchanting island, Pathiramanal(Sands of midnight).

Vayaskara and Chirattamon: These places arewell known for theirt Ayurvedicrejuvenation centres.

Poonjar Palace: The palace is a glorius testimony to the regal opluence of a bygoneera. Within the palace walls is an extraordinary royal collection of antiques and exquisitefurniture which include a palanquin, a thoni-carved out of a single peice of wood-forAyurvedidc massges, huge chandeloiers, palm leaf engravings.

Vagamon : This enchanting hill station on the Idukki-Kottayam border, dotted with teagardens and meadows, will soon be one of India’s foremost ecotourism projects.

Kannadipara : As the name suggests, the valley of this rock/ mountain reflects the


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morning sun with a mirror like perfection. This is also the highest point inIlaveezhapoonchira.

Illickal Mala : Numerousmountain streams in thispeak, 6000 ft. above sea level,flow down to form the sereneMeenachil River.

Illickal Kallu: Three hills, eachrising to 4000 ft. and above,together form this huge hill.Each of the hills have apeculiar shape.

Ayyappara: According tolegends, the five Pandava brothers - epic heroes of the Mahabharatha stayed nearthis rock, 2000 ft. above sea level and spread over 20 acres, during their exile.

Kolani Mudi: Yet another perk in the Ilaveezhapoonichira mountain range, which alsohas a cave.

Marmala Stream: This scenic stream and its breathtaking waterfalls are togetherreferred to as the enchantress of the jungle.

PILGRIM CENTRESKottayam is known for its religious harmony. There are over 50 temples and 70 churchesincluding a 1000 year old mosque in this district. Besides, Kottayam is also the gatewayto the pilgrim centres of Sabarimala, Mannanam, Vaikom, Ettumanoor, Bharananganam,Erumeli, Manarcad, Aruvithura, Athirampuzha and the temples of Perunna, Vazhapalliand Thrikkodithanam near Changanacherry.

Siva Temple, Thalikkotta (2 km from Kottayam): The place of worship of the erstwhileThekkumkoor royal family Annual festival - ten day utsavam(April-May), Sivarathri January-February)

Vimalagiri Church : This temple built in the Gothicarchitectural style has a 172 ft. tower which is one of thetallest church towers in Kerala. The feast is celebrated inDecember.

St. Mary’s Church, Cheriapalli (2km oflotnayam town): Builtin 1579 by Thekkumkoor Maharaja this church displaysoutstanding architecture which is a blend of Kerala andPortuguese styles. The walls are adorned with beautifulmurals made in oriental and western styles on biblical andnon biblical themes.


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Thazhathangadi Valiapalli (2 km from west of Kottayam town): Built in 1550 AD, thischurch belongs to the Knanaya Orthodox Syrian Community.

St. Joseph’s Monastery, Mannanam (Near Medical College): This church was builtby the blessed Father Chavara Kuriakose Elias. The mortal remains of this saintly priestis preserved here.Thirunakkara Mahadevar Temple: In the heart of Kottayam town is this 500 year oldtemple built by the Thekkumkwr Maharajah. Temple built in the Kerala style of architecturehas colourful murals on its walls which are worth exploring.

St. Mary’s Church, Mannarcad (8 km from Kottayam Town):This is one of the mostimportant churches of the Malankara Jacobite Syrian Christians. The ettunoyambu (8day fasting) is the main annual event when devotees from far and wide congregateto participate in the prayers and rituals.

Shiva Temple, Vaikom (40 km fromKottayam town): Associated with thelegendary Parasurama, this temple is atypical example of the Kerala style oftemple architecture.

Dhamrasastha Temple, Pakkil (3 kmfrom Kottayam town): This is one of theeight temples established byParasurama.

St. George’s Church, Puthupalli: Thischurch is believed to have been built bythe Thekkumkoor Rajas. The goldencross in this church is well known. The feast of St George (Gee Varghgese) is theannual event.

The Old Seminary, Marthoma Seminary and Vadavathoor Seminary proclaim Syrian andRoman Christian traditions.

The Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church has its headquarters at Devalokam,Kottayam.

St. Thomas Church, Pala : The church data back to 1002 AD and was renovated oncein the 18th century.

St Thomas Mount: This holy place of Christians is located 1200 ft. above sea leveland offers a panoramic view of the Vaikom Lake and the surrounding areas.

Kaduthuruthi Valiapalli (on MC Road between Ettumanoor and Vaikom): Built in 500AD, the church has a huge cross sculpted out of a single stone at the entrance.

Mahadevar Temple, Ettumanoor (12 km from Kottayam town): This temple is famous


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for its murals, especially the painting of Nataraja in the gopuram and ezharaponnana(the 71/2 elephants finished in gold). Frstival : Ezharaponnana Ezhunellath 10 days inFebruary/March).

Jama Masjid, Thazhathangadi (2 km from Kottayam town): This ancient mosque on thebanks of the Meenachil River is believed to be 1000 years old. It is one of the oldestin India.

St. Thomas Church, Cherpungal: Believed to have been establiShed by the apostleSt. Thomas, tl;is church was relocated to the southern banks of the Meenachil Riverwith the cooperation of poet Kunchan Nambiar and his family.

Sree Subramanya Swami Temple, Perunna (20 km from Kottayam): Festival: Pallimettautsavam (November- December)

Naragathara (8 km from the Boat Terminal at Kavanattinkara). This remote village isthe place where the snake boat race trials are conducted during the festival season in theMalayalam month, Chingam. Winding narrow canals, vast stretch of paddy fields, vegetablefarms, migratory and common birds are the other attractions here.

Attamangalam Church : The world famous Raja Ravi Varma paintings of Saint ParumalaThirumeni can be seen here. The canals around the church and the beautiful surroundingsare the other interesting sights here.

Boat Races in Kumarakam : Kumarakom Sreenarayana Jayanthi Boat Race : THe Boatraces are conducted every year duringChathayam Nal, the fourth day of Onam. It startsfrom Kottathod near Kumarakom MarketJunction. The procession in the Kettuvallamthrough Kottathodu is an attractive sight. Kolkali,Thiruvathira Kali, Garudanthookkam,Panchavadyam etc. are performed in theKettuvallam during the procession. The boatraces with all types of snake boats are heldafter the procession.

Kavanattinkara Tourism Boat Race : This boat race is conducted during Avittom day ofthe Malayalam month Chingam. Snake boats such as iruttukuty, Chundan, Veppu andKothumpavallam participate in the competition. Hundres of people gather to witness thisboat race.

Kottayam Thazhathangadi Boat Race : This is conducted during the last week of theMalayalam month of Chingam in the River Meenachil . The Chundan snake boat race isan important event. Vanchipattu Competition, relay race etc. are conducted in connectionwith the boat race.


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TOURIST INFORMATION OFFICES : KTDC Ph : 2525861, DTPC Ph: 2560479

HOTELS & RESORTS [Tariff are subjected to change]

Kottayam (+91-481) Tariff (Rs.) Tel:Hotel Mali International 950-7500 2569719Hotel Anjali Park 1200-4200 2563661Windsor Castle 3000-6000 2363637Pearl Regency 2250-6250 2561123Hotel Aida 750-2100 2568391Hotel Vijay Park 1000-1500 243546Hotel Ambassador 325-900 2563293Orchid Residency 1600-2200 2563141Exons Comfort inn 750-1000 2565716Summer Sand 700-1001 2505861Home Stead Hotel 700-1500 2560467Vembanad Lake Resort 650 2360866Yamuna Tourist Lodge 460-960 2566806Hotel Floral Park 450-1500 2597108Bennies Inn 450-1200 2568001Hotel Sakthi 400-1000 2563161KumarakomKumarakom Lake Resort 17500-58000 2524900Coconut Lagoon 14950-26450 2524491Zuri Resorts & Spa 12000-30000 2527272Taj Garden Retreat 15200-31200 2525711Back Water Ripples 9200-50500 2523600Lake Song 8400-10400 2526300Water Scapes 6500-9000 2525864Gold Field Lake Resort 6399-8899 2525388Abad Whispering Palms 6000-11500 2523820Manor Back Water 6000 2526323Cocobay Resort 5290 2523200Paradise Resort 5000 2524721Lakshmi Hotel 3000-4000 2523313Kottayam Club 2300 2523290Edasseri Kayal Resort 2000-3000 2523785Illikkalam Lake Resort 2000-3000 2524234Windsor Paddy Field 1800-2000 2526033Tharavadu Heritage Home 1400-2000 2525230Lake Palace 800-1500 2524282


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A L A P P U Z H AA C C E S S I N G A L A P P U Z H A

Telephone Access code : +91 477

Tourist Information Offices : District Tourism Promotion CouncilPh: 2251796/2253308Tourist Information Office, Dept. of Tourism Ph: 2260722

Venice of the East - the other name gives to Alappuzha. It has grown in impor tanceas a backwater tourist centre, att’acting several thousands of foreign tourists each year.Alappuzha is also famous for its boat races, houseboat holidays, beaches, marineproductsand coirindustry. A singular characteristic of this land is the region calledKuttanad. The land of lush paddy fields, Kuttanad is called the rice bowl of Kerala andis one of the few places in the world where farming is done below sea level.

Alappuzha Beach : This is one of the most populr picnic spots in alappuzha. The pier,which extends into the sea here, is over 137 years old. entertainment facilities at theVijaya beach park add to the attrations of the beach. There is also an old light housewhich is greatly fascinating to visitors.

Alappuzha Backwaters : With its labyrinth of waterways, Alappuzha, extolled by travellersas the Venice of the East is one of Kerala’s most exotic backwater destinations. As thevenue for the world renowned Nehru Trophy Boat Race, these backwaters come aliveduring the month of August every year. A houseboat journey is the ideal way to soak in thedelights of rustic Alappuzha.Pathiramanal : 1 1/2 hrs by motor boat/30 min. by speedboat from Alappuzha) Spreadover 10 acres, this little island on the backwaters is a favourite haunt of hundreds of raremigratory birds from different parts of the world. Lying between the backwaters ofThaneermukkom and Kumarakom, a boat ride through serene waters will take you to theisland. According to mythology, a young brahmin dived in to the Vembanad Lake to performhis evening ablutions and the water made way for land to rise from below, thus creatingthe enchanting island of Pathiramanal (sands of midnight)

Q S T and R Block Kayal : These regions are wonders of the indigenous agriculturalengineering know-how of kerala and remind the visitor of the famous dikes of Holland.Extensive areas of land have been reclaimed from the backwaters and are protectedby dikes built all around. Here cultivation and habitation are made possible four toten feet below sea level. A leisurely cruised along the canals that surround these kayalis a memorable experience.

Kuttanad : Kuttanad, called therice bowl of Kerala, because of her wealth of paddy cropsis at the very heart of the backwaters. The scenic countryside of Kuttanad with itsshimmering waterways also has a rich crop of banana, cassava and yam.

Sree Krishna Temple, Ambalappuzha (15 km south of Alappuzha): Built in the typical


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Kerala architectural style, this temple is famous all over India for the Palpayasam, thedaily offering of deliciously sweet milk porridge.

St George Church, Edathua : Established in 1810, the church is dedicated to St. George.It is believed that prayers and offerings at this church help to heal all mental disordersand other ailments.

Sree Nagaraja Temple, Mannarasala (32 km south of AIappuzha): Situated nearHarippad, this is a serpent shrine under the patronage of a Brahman family, headedby a priestess. The ancient shrine is an internationally renowned pilgrim centrededicated to the Serpent God Nagaraja.

Karumadikuttan : Many fascinating legends are associated with this 11th century statueof Lord Buddha.

Chavara Bhavan: Chavara Bhavan is the ancestral home of the blessed KuriakoseElias Chavara.

Krishnapuram Palace : Built by Marthanda Varma, this palace at Karthikapally inKayamkulam is famous for its nural depicting the story of Gajeendramoksham datingback to the 18th century, this exquisite piece of art is one of the largest murals in Kerala.

St. Sebastian’s Church, Arthunkal : The St. Sebastian’s Church here is an importantChristian pilgrim centre.

Chettikulangara Bhagavathy Temple, Mavelikkara: The kettukazhcha festival at thistemple draws large crowds of devotees.

Chakkulathukavu Bhagavathy Temple : (30 km southeast of Alappuzha nearNeerettupuram. situated on the border of Pathanamthitta and Alappuzha districts, thefamous rivers Pamba and Manimala flow on either side of the temple.Sea View Park: The park offers boating facilities and a swimming pool.

Tourist Information Off : DTPC Ph : 2253308 Dept of Tourism Ph: 2260722

Boat Races : Alappuzha Nehru Trophy BoatRace at Punnamada (2nd Saturday of August)Pulnkunnu Rajiv Gandhi Boat Race (LastSaturday of August) Champakulam Boat Race(Moolam day of Midhunam-July) PayippadJalotsavam (4th Onam day-August/September), Neerettupuram Boat Race (Onam- August/September).

Tourist boat Cruise : The mechanised andmotorised tour section of DTPC has a widerange of luxury boats and speed boats forbackwater cruises on the Vembanad Lake.


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HOTELS AND RESORTS : Tarriff (Rs) PhoneAlappuzha (+91 - 477)Punnamada BackwaterResorts 7000-10500 2233690Marari Beach Home 6000-9000 2263535Marari Beach 5750-14850 0478-2863801Raheem Residency 4000-10000 2239767Panoramic Sea Resort 3500-4000 2251070Coir Village Lake Resort 3500 2264462Kayaloram Lake Resort 3315-6630 2232040Keraleeyam Ayurvedic Resort 1700-2720 2236950Alleppey Prince Hotel 1600-4500 2246752Anamika The Villa 1500-4500 22422044Alleppey Beach Resort 1500-2990 2263408KTDC Tamarind Easy Hotel 1400-1900 2244460Coconut Palms 1250 0471-2330417Pagoda Resort 1200-3700 2251697Arcadia Regency 1000-4100 2230414Hotel Royal Park 900-3000 2264828The Green Palace Holiday Resort 900-2500 2170552Palm Grove Lake Resort 875-1000Lake Palace Resort 800-18500 2239701Tharavad Resort 800-2500 2244599Tharayil Tourist Home 600-1600 2233543Hotel Arcadia 450-1200 2251354Enkeys Tourist Home 450-850 2258462Gowri Heritage Home 400-1500 2236371KTC Guest House 350-1100 2254275


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I D U K K IAc c e s s i n g Id u k k i

Telephone access code

Thekkady, Kumily, Peermede:++91-4869, Munnar:++91-4865, Chinnaknal:++91-4868

Tourist Information Offices : DTPC Information Centre, Munnar Telefax : 04865 231516Email: Munnar @sancharnet.in www.munnartourism.com, District Tourist InformationOffice, Department of Tourism, Thekkady Jn., Kumily Ph: 04869-222620

Places to Visit

THEKKADYIdukki Arch Dam : This is the world’ssecond and Asia’s first arch dam,constructed across the Kuravan and Kurathihills. 550ft. high and 650 ft.wide, the damlies close to the Cheruthoni barrage. To itswest is the Kulamavu Dam. Idukki WildlifeSanctuary is located closely.

Kalliyanthandu (10 km from Idukki): Theaerial view of the Idukki reservoir,panoramic view of peaks and forests make this a splendid tourist spot. It is also anideal place for mountain climbers and trekkers.

Kulamav(20km): Dam sight-trekking train-view point Painav. Scenic beauty-trekkingpoint-evergreen forest Cheruthoni: Idukki Arch Dam sight-aerial view of the reservoir,panoramic view-hill view park.

The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary : Lying close to the plantations, in the rich jungles ofPeriyar in Thekkady is one of the world’s most fascinating natural wildlife reserves -the Periyar wildlife Sanctuary. Spread across 777 sq.km, of which 360sq.km is thickevergreen forest, the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary was declared a Tiger Reserve in 1978.

Kumily (4km from Thekkady): This plantation town, closely associated with Thekkady,is suited on the outskirts of the Periyar Sanctuary.

Pandikuzhi (5 km from Kumily): A popular picnic spot, Pandikuzhi offers greatopportunities for trekking and is a photographer’s delight.

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

The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary : Lying close to the plantations, in the rich jungles of


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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 360sq.km is thickevergreen forest, the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary was declared a Tiger Reserve in 1978.

Kumily (4km from Thekkady): This plantation town, closely associated with Thekkady,is suited on the outskirts of the Periyar Sanctuary.

Pandikuzhi (5 km from Kumily): A popular picnic spot, Pandikuzhi offers greatopportunities for trekking and is a photographer’s delight.

The Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary: This sanctuary extends over the Thodupuzha andUdumpanchola Taluks of Idukki district, spreading over 77 sq. km and is about 450-748 m above sea level. The Idukki Reservoir formed by three dams-Cheruthoni, Idukkiand Kulamavu - extends to 33 km.

Vandiperiyar (18 km from Thekkady) : The River Periyar flowing through the centre ofthis town nourishes its vast tea, coffee and pepper plantations. A major trade centre.

Mangala Devi Temple (15km from Thekkady): This ancient temple is hidden in the densewoods at the top of a peak 1337 m above seal level. The temple is built in the traditionalKerala style of architecture. Visitors are allowed here only on the Chithra pournamifestival day.

Chellarkovil (15km from Kumily): This sleepy little village with its breathtaking view ofthe plains and cascading waterfalls is a feast for the eyes.

Pullumedu : The famous Sree Ayyappa Temple at Sabarimal and the Makara JyothiIlluminations at the shrine are visible from here.

FACILITIES

Hospitals: Central Hosopital, Thekkady Jn, Kumily Ph: 222045 St. Augustine Hosopital,Spring Valley, Kumily Ph: 222042. Ayurveda Hosopital: Sree Sankara Gardens, Anakkara,Kumily Ph: 04868-282322

PEERMEDEAltitude : 915 - 1100 m above seallevel.

Peermede, the famous plantationtown, takes its name from PeerMohammed, Sufi saint and closeassociate of the erstwhile royal ofTravancore. W ide vistas of tea,cardamom, rubber and coffeeplantations interspersed withsilver cascades, sculptural rocks,


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meadows and mist-cloaked hilltops make peermede an unforgettable experience.

Kuttikanam : a place for adventure tourism and trekking, or even a langourous, tranquilbreak. This picturesque plantation town washed in the fragrance of cardamom issurrounded by lush, green hills.

Pattumala (17 km east of Peermede, 28 km west of Thekkady): Lofty peaks, littlestreams and ever expanding tea plantations are the attractions of this place. Pattumala(which literally means hill draped in silk) is home to the two most famous tea plantation.

Thrissanku Hills (4 km from Peermedu, 1/2 km from Kuttikanam); The rolling hills,the lovely landscape and the gentle breeze make this an ideal spot for long walks.The hills offer a breathtaking view of the sunrise and sunset.

Peeru Hills (4 km from Peermede; 1 km from Kuttikkanam): This idyllic hill station isa favorite haunt of trekkers and picnickers. The hill is named after Peer Mohammed,the Sufi saint, who spent his last days here.

M U N N A RAltitude : 5000 to 8000ft.above sea level

A c c e s s in g Mu n n a r

Tourist informationOffice: District TourismOffice, Kumily Ph:222620. DTPCInformation Centre, OldMunnar Ph: 231516

Munnar is siutated atthe confluence of three mountain streams - Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala.1600 m above sea level, this hill station was oncce the summer resort of the erstwhileBritish Government in south India. sprawling tea plantations, Picture-book towns,winding lanes and holiday facilities make this a popular resort town.

Nyayamakad (110 km from Munnar): Located between Munnar and Rajamala,Nyayamakad is a land of breathtaking waterfalls. The waters cascade down a hill froma height of about 1600 meters.

Chithirapuram (10 km from Munnar): With its sleepy little cottages, bungalows, oldplaygrounds and courts, Chithirapuram still exudes an old world charm. Home of thePaliyvasal Hydel Power Project, this hill town is also famous lot its picturesque teaplantations.


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Attukal (3 km from Munnar: A panorama of waterfalls and rolling hills, Attukal, locatedbetween Munnar and Pallivasal, is a feast for the eyes.Mattupetty (13 km from Munnar: Situated at a height of 1700 m, Mattupetty is knownfor its highly specialized dairy farm the Indo Swiss Livestock Project. Over a 100 varietiesof high yielding cattle are reared here.

The Mattupetty Lake and dam, just a short distance from the farm, is a very beautifulpicnic spot. The sprawling Kundala tea plantations and the Kundala Lake are otherattractions in the vicinity. DTPC Idukki provides boating facilities on the Mattupetty Dam.Speed launch, slow speedboat and motorboats are available on hire.

Rajamala : This is the natural habitat of the Nilgiri Tahr. Half the world population ofthe rare mountain goal (Hemitragas hylocres which is fast becoming extinct, is nowfound here.

Power House Waterfalls : This waterfall on the way to Thekkady from Munnar cascadesdown a steep rock 2000 m above sea level. The spot is enriched with the scenic westernmountain ranges, and is an ideal place for a break on the way to the Periyar WildlifeSanctuary in Thekkady.

Kundala : Kundala is a picturesque town on the way to Top Station. The Golf Coursewhich belongs to Tata Tea Ltd. is located here. The Kundala artificial dam is anotherattraction. Aruvikkad Waterfall is also near Kundala.

EXCURSIONS FROM MUNNAR

Top Station (32 km from Munnar): 1700 m above sea level, this is the highest pointon the Munnar - Kodaikanal road. The rare Neelakurinji (Strobilanthus) belongs to thisregion. This plant blooms once every twelve years bathing the hillsides in bright blue.

Cheeyappara: The Cheeyappara and Valara waterfalls are located betweenNeriamangalam and Adimali on the Kochi - Madurai highway.

Anayirankal : The Anayirankal Dam is surrounded by the Tata Tea Plantation andevergreen forests. It is an ideal picnic spec.

Malankara Reservoir (6 km from Thodupuzha): Located on the Thodupuzha -Moolamattam road, this artificial lake is accessible by road. The reservoir is ideal forboating and fishing.

Thommankuthu (17 km from Thodupuzha): The seven step waterfall here is a muchloved picnic spot. Thommankuthu is an ideal place for adventure tourism.

Palkulamedu (12 km from Idukki): Kochi, Alappuzha and other nearby towns can beseen from this peak which is located 3125 m above sea level.

Sandal Valley Tour: Nymakkad View point, luckkom waterfalls, Vaguvarai View point,coffe- tea plantations, sandal wood forest, chinnar wildlife sanctuary.


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Marayoor: This is the only place in Kerala that has a natural growth of sandalwoodtrees. The sandalwood factory of the Forest Department, the caves (muniyaras) withmurals and relies from the New Stone Age civilization.Kalvari Mount: This is a famous pilgrimcentre on the way to Kattappana.

Keezharkuth (25 km from Thodupuzha):The Rainbow waterfalls which cascadedown a rock from a height of about 1500mt is a wonderful attraction of this spot.

Ramakalmedu (16km fromNedumkandam, Thekkady-Munnarroad): Rolling green hills and the freshmountain air make Ramakalmedu anenchanting retreat.

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary (60 km fromMunnar): Situated on the Tamil Nadu border, the Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is spreadacross 90.44 sq. km.

Devikulam (7 km from Munnar): This idyllic hill station with its velvet lawns. exotic floraand fauna and the cool mountain air is a rare experience. The Sita Devi Lake with itsmineral waters and picturesque surroundings is a good picnic spot. The lake is alsoideal for trout fishing.

Pallivasal (8 km from Munnar): This is the venue of the first Hydro Electric project inKerala and a place of immense scenic beauty.

Pothamedu (6 km from Munnar): Pothamedu offers an excellent view of the tea, coffeeand cardamom plantations in Munnar.

Eravikulam National Park : 97 sq. km, park is situated in the Devikulam Taluk andis home to the Nilgiri Tahr. TheAnamudi peak (2695 m) islocated in the southern regionof the park.

Trekking Routes:

Valara 110 km from Adimali onthe Kochi - Madurai highway):Valara has a chain of waterfallssurrounded by thick greenforests.


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Lock Heart Gap : This is an ideal place for adventure tourism and trekking. The freshmountain air, the mist-clad hills and panoramic view make it worthy of a visit.

Echo Point : This scenic place gets its name from the natural echo phenomenon here.

Sanctuary visit: The park is divided into three regions - the core area, the buffer areaand panoramic view make it worthy the tourism area. Visitors are allowed only to thetourism area which is in the Rajamala region.

High Range Club: Charmingly colonial in style, this clubhouse built of wicker and teakstill serves as a social centre for the far-flung farmers of the region around Munnar.

Trekking points in Munnar: Anamudi - Rajamala - Meesapulimala - Top Station Kundala-Devikulam

Tourist circuits in Munnar: · Munnar - Mattupetty Dam - Indo Swiss Livestock ProjectEcho Point - Kundala Dam -Top Station (34 km) ·Munnar - Pothamedu - ChitirapuramPallivasal - Cheeyappara - Adimali -Valara (40 km)·Munnar - Rajamala - Marayoor -Chinnar (70 km) · Munnar - Devikulam - Lock Heart Gap - Power House Waterfalls,Anayirankal (32 km)

PLANTATIONS OF MUNNAR

Tea (Scientific name: Camellia sinesis): Tea plantations in South India are located onthe Western Ghats, the eastern part of central Kerala and adjoining parts of Tamil Nadu,usually at an elevation of 4300 to 6200 ft. above sea level. The high ranges of Munnarwere earlier known as Kannan Devan Hills, named after a certain Kannan Devan, whohad been a landlord in the Anchanad Valley on the eastern side of the district. Teacultivation started on the Nilgiris in 1832 on an experimental basis, and later in 1878was taken up on the Kannan Devan Hills in Munnar. Today, tea is cultivated on 24,000hectares of land in Munnar, Peermede and Devikulam areas with an annual yield of47568 metric tons.

Hospitals: Tata General Hosopital, Munnar Ph: 230410

HOTELS AND RESORTS (Tharrifs are subject to change)

IDUKKI Tariff Phone Nos.Thekkady (+91 4869)Spice Village 11200-13400 222316Taj Garden Retreat 6500 222403Jungle Village 6000-10000 2575425Aranya Nivas (KTDC) 4518-7200 222023Lake Palace (KTDC) 4200-9000 222024Cardamom County 4000-8000 224501Shalimar Spice Garden Resort 3850-16500 222132Green Woods 3825 224282


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The Hotel Tree Top 2800-7500 223286Wildernest 2750 224030S N International 1500-2200 320361Ambadi 1150-1600 222193Leela Pankaj 1100 222392Periyar House (KTDC) 800-2500 222026

Peermedu (91-486 9)Ashly Banglow 2500-3500 232282Thrisangu Haven 1600-2600 232491Wood Palace 1500-3000 232091Highvalley Resort 1500 232812Misey Mountain Plantation Resort 500-3000 232065Yatri Nivas (KTDC) 400-700 232250

Munnar (91 -486 5)Windermere Resort 5900-9600 230978Thallayar Valley Banglow 5500 257314Tall Trees Resorts 4500-8500 230593Tea Coundy 3750-6500 230460Munar Woods 3000-4000 263625Igloo Nature Resort 3000-4500 263207T & U Leisure Hotel 3000-6000 233081Shamrock 3000-3500 233188Olive Brook 3000-3500 230588Abad Coper Castle 2800-35000 231201Oak Fields 2500-3800 231016Forest Haven Resorts 2400-3200 04864-278401Sterling Resort 2300-3999 0468-249206Winter Green Resorts 2250 263915Camelot Resort 2000-4000 231195Deshadan Mountain Resorts 2000-5000 232910Edassery East End Hotel 1950-2300 230451West Wood Riverside 1800-3500 230884Garden Retreat Mermaid 1750-3500 232320Le Celestium 1700-3000 231988Issac’s Residency 1700-3700 230501Hotel Hill View 1500-2850 230567Ela Eco Land 1250-5000 04864-278322High Range Club 1250-2500 230724Sun Mount View Resort 1250 263233Noorgiri 1250 214099Royal Retreat 1200-1500 230440Munnar Inn 1200-2000 231735Govt. Guest House 1150 230385


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Pooppada Resorts 1100-2500 230223Mount Shelt 1000-1200 233055SN Annexe 950-2000 232022Munnar Tourist Home 900-2500 230353Elysium Gardens 800-2500 232650Spice Garden Resort 750-1500 263696Misha Holiday Home 700-1300 230376SN Tourist Home 633-978 230212Aida Tourist Home 600-1500 230542Spring Dale Resorts 500-2500 264268Chandana Residency 400-5000 252937Marthoma Retreat 300-2500 232285Hilltop Tourist Home 250-500 230655Kumily (+91-4869)Silver Crest 2400-3600 222481Michael’s Inn 1300-2500 222355Hotel Kumily Gate 900-1900 222500Lissiya International 650-3000 223588Mas Lake Queen 600-1400 222084Highrange Residency 450-1300 223343Revathy International 330-850 222434Mukkumckal Regent Tower 300-1000 222570Chinnakanal (+91-4868)Fort Munnar 4000-10000 249312Club Mahindra 3000-15000 249224The Siena Village 2750-4700 249261MAS Chancellor Resorts 1800-4000 249318OthersCarmelia Haven,Vandanmedu 12000-5000

04868-270252Vagamon Hideout, Vagamon 7000 2575425The Retreat, Vagamon 5000Blackberry Hills 3250-6500 232978


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M A L A P P U R A MTelephone Access Code : 0483

Bounded by the Nilgiri Hills in the East, the Arabian Sea in the west and Thrissurand Palakkad districts in the south, Malappuram is enriched by three great riversflowing through it - the Chaliyar, the Kadalundi and the Bharatha Puzha.

Places to Visit

Kottakal (12 km southwest of Malappuram): This small town is home to the famedKottakkal Arya Vaidyasala, one of the pioneer institutions of Ayurveda, the traditionalsystem of health and medicine, in Kerala. Founded in i 902 by Vaidyaratnam P S Warrier,Kottakkal Arya Vaidyasala has branches all over the State as well as in Delhi andMadras. One of the best Ayurvedic centres in the State, the Arya Vaidyasala runs anAyurvedic research centre.

Vallikunnu Beach: A beach resort set in the middle of a coconut grove is the mainattraction here. The Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary is just a short distance away.

Trikandiyur Shiva Temple: The idol at this ancient temple is said to have been installedby Parasurama, the legendary creator of Kerala. The temple is located near the town ofTirur and attracts devotees from far and wide.

Poonkudil Mana: Situated 3 km away from Anakkayam town on the Manjeri -Perinthalmanna road is this ancient mental health care centre.

Thunchan Memorial, Tirur: This isthe birth place of ThunchathEzhuthachan, the father of theMalayalam language. OnVijayadasami Day, many come herefor vidyarambham, the ceremony inwhich children are initiated intolearning. The iron stylus with whichEzhuthchan wrote his texts on palmleaves and the ancient kanjira treeunder which he composed hispoems are treasured exhibits here.

Padinjarekkara Beach : (17km fromTirur Town, 45 km from the Malappuram headquaters) situated at the end of the TipuSultan Road near Ponnani, this beach offers a breathtaking view of the confluence of theBharathapuzha, the Tirur Puzha and the Arabian Sea. Tourists can enjoy a ride on waterscooters or speed boats and also much on tidbits at the floating coffee shop. The beachis famous for bird watching, as migratory birds are often spotted here. You can also findan amenity centre, an amphitheatre and ecoshops.

Ponnani: The only port in the district, this is an important fishing centre.


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Thirurangadi: This is the place which withnessed the 1921 Malabar Mutiny.

Teak Museum : (Open 1000-1700 hrs) Situated at Canoli Plot, this is the only teak museumin the world. It houses around 55 types of bamboos and an arboretym having the biggestteak in the world. A butterfly park is also attached to the museum.

Thirunavaya : (8 km south of Tirur) Situated on the banks of the Bharathapuzha, this placewas once the venue for Mamangam, a grand assembly of the rules of Kerala, held oncein every 12 years. It is here that the Chaver soldiers prayed for 41 days before embarkingon thier suicide mission to kill the Zamorin. This extravagant festival was conducted forthe last time in 1766. Today, Thirunavaya is the venue for the annual Sarvodaya Mela.

Thali Temple, Perinthalmanna : The temple is located about 3 km west ofPerinthalmanna on the way to Malappuram.

Thirumandhankunnu Temple, Angadipuram: Dedicated to Goddess Durga, this is animportant pilgrim centre in Malappuram.

The Jama-at Mosque, Malappuram: This is an important pilgrim centre of the Muslimsof Kerala.

Pazhayangadi Mosque,Kondotti (18 km east ofManjeri, on the way toMalappuram): The threeday long I/aliaNmha feastat this 500 year old Muslimpilgrim centre, celebratedin February/March.

Thunchan Memorial, Tirur:This is the birth place ofThunchath Ezhuthachan,the father of the Malayalamlanguage. OnVijayadasami Day, manycome here forvidyarambham, the ceremony in which children are initiated into learning.

Nilambur: The extensively forested land s well known for Canoli’s Plot the world’soldest teak plantation and bamboo woods.

Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary (19 km from Kozhikod and 7 km from Beypore port): Thesanctuary is spread over a cluster of islands in a scenic area surrounded by hillockswhere the Kadalundipuzha River flows into the Arabian Sea. Over a hundred varieties ofnative birds and over 60 varieties of migratory birds flock here in large numbers. A hillockwhich is 200 m above sea level provides a splendid view of the river mouth and the sea.The place is also known for a wide variety of fish, mussels and crabs.

Padinharekara Beach: At the end of the Tipu Sultan road near Ponnani, the beach offersa breathtaking view of the confluence of the Bharathpuzha, the Tirur Puzha and theArabianSea.


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HOTELS & RESORTS(Tharrifs are subject to change)

Malappuram (+91-483) Tariff (Rs.) PhoneMahendrapuri 400-800 2734101Hill Fort 330-1150 2730779Hotel Paradise 250-700 2713527Airport Plaza 250-1500 2711260Grace Residency 200-788 2736202Kadampuzha (+91-494)NC Gardens 3000-4500 2471480Riverside Retreat 1000-2000 26998825Hotel KR Residency 400-2000 2616092PSM Tourist Home 250-1300 2427986Airport / Kondotty (+91-483)Hotel Paradise 250-700 2713527Hotel Airport Plaza 400-1600 2716537Kadavu Resorts 6000-102000 0483 2830570Park Residency, 900-2500 2443381RamanattukaraCalicut Gate, Ramanattukara 800-1700 2443512Tamarind (KTDC) 1400-1900 2717200Al-Amana Tower 150-800 2716735Perinthalmanna (+91-4933)Chengara Heritage 2000-2200 229611KPM Residency 490-2000 227590

P A L A K K A DKnown as the granary of Kerala.Palakkad is a land of valleys, Hillocks,rivers, forests, mountains streams,dams and irrigation projects situatedat the foot of the Western Ghats, this isthe gateway to Kerala from the North.Palakkad derives its name fromMalayalam words Pala (Alsteriascholaris) and Kadu (forest) whichgoes to prove that this place was oncebeautiful stretch of forest covered withthe sweet scented flowers of the PalaTree.


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PLACES TO VISITPalakkad Fort : Situated in the heart of Palghat town is one the best preserved inKerala. Built by Hyder Ali of Mysore in 1766. The fort was taken over and modified by theBritish in 1790. It is now preserved by the Archeological Survey of India.

Mangalam Dam (50 km from Palakkad): A popular picnic spot, the dam is built acrossthe Cherukunnath river, a tributary of the Mangalam river.

Nelliyampathy : This fascinatinghill station is at a height of 467 to1572 m above see level. Evergreenforest in Sahya Ranges will be agreat experience for the touristsinterest in tracking.

Ottappalam (35 km fromPalakkad): The town is known forits numerous places of worshipand their colourful festivals.

Pothundy (45 km from Palakkad:Situated on the way toNelliampathy, the PothundyReservoir Complex is a charminglocation for picnics and half-daytrips.

Chittur Gurumadam (Thekkegramam near Arikkode): Located on the banks of theRiver Sokanasini (the destroyer of sorrows), this is a memorial to Thunchath Ezhuthachan,the author of Adyatma Ramayana, who spent his last days here.

Thenari: It is believed that the waters of this natural spring, located in front of the oldSree Rama Temple here, is as sacred as the waters of the Ganges.

Mayiladumpara: This grove takes its name from the large number of peacocks (mayil)found here.

Jain Temple of Jainimedu: Situated on the western suburbs of Palakkad town, not farform the railway station, this historic 32 feet long, 20 ft. wide granite temple displaysimages of the Jain Thirthankaras and Yakshinis. The region around the temple, knownas Jainimedu, is one of the few places in Kerala where the vestiges of Jainism havesurvived.

Anappady: (38 km northeast of Mannarkad) A beautiful synthesis of mountains, riversand forests, Attappady is of great interest to anthropologists as this is the habitat ofmany tribes like the Irulas and Mudugars.

Parambikulam Wild Life Sanctuary: undoubtedly one of the best places in which toview wild life. There are several district areas each offering its own scenic and animalattractions. Sprawled across 285 sq.km and 110km away from Palakkad town. Reservoirhere offers boating and crushing facilities.


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Malampuzha Garden: combination of Dam and beautifully landscaped garden is beenan important tourist attraction over the years.Siruvani: The reservoir at Siruvani was built for Tamil Nadu by the Kerala Governmentto meet the drinking water requirements of Coimbatore.Dhoni : (15 km from Palakkad): It takes a three hour trek from the base of the Dhoni Hillsto reach this reserve forest area with its small, beautiful waterfall.

Kottayi (15 km via Poodur from Palakkad): This tiny village is the native place of the lateChembai Vaidyanatha Bhagavathar, the doyen of Carnatic music.

Silent Valley National Park: The 89.52sq km National Park is believed to be thesole surviving bit of evergreen forests inthe Sahya Ranges.

Lakkidi (30 km from Palakkad) :Killikurissimangalam at Lakkidi is thebirthplace of Kunchan Nambiar, the 18thcentury satirist and exponent of the Thullal(classical art form).

Meenkara (32 km from Palakkad): Thispicnic spot is the site of a dam across theRiver Gayathri which flows into theBharathapuzha.

Silent Valley National Park (40 km northwest of Mannarkad): The 89.52 sq. km nationalpark is believed to be the sole surviving bit of evergreen forests in the Sahya Ranges.The peculiarity of the Silent Valley Forest is that it is devoid even of the chirping ofcicadas. Vehicular transport is possible only up to Mukkali, nearly 24 km from the park.The rest of the way has to be covered on foot up to the source of Kunthipuzha whichflows through the valley before merging into River Bharathapuzha.

HOTELS & RESORTS (Tharrifs are subject to change)

Palakkad (+91-491)Kalari Kovilakom (minimum 14 days) 315000-428400 04923 263155Rajah Healthy Acres 1800-3500 0466 2256215Sri Chakra International 1000-2200 2570901KPM International 1000-3000 2534601Hotel Indraprastha 800-2250 2534647Soorya Residency 750-1300 2520892Fort Palace Hotel 700-2200 2534621Soorya Continental 700-1500 2552636ATS Residency 650-950 2537477Hotel Soorya City 600-1500 2521831Soorya Retreat 600-1250 2569970Marhaba Residency 550-2000 2525263


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ITL Residency 550-2200 2525262Sayoojyam Residency 500-1200 2504550Kairali Tower 500-1200 2547174Walayar Motels 490-1000 2566312Hotel Green Park 470-900 2540912Oasis Residency 400-1200 2539891Ottapalam (+91-466)Ottapalam Residency 475-1700 2249574Hotel Aramana 400-1600 2244412

K A N N U RAccess Co d e : ++ 91- 497

District bounded by a wealth of natural beauty. The district itself which shares much ofthis natural splendor has been a key contributed to the cultural, religious, political andindustrial heritage of the state.

P laces t o v is i t

Gundert Bungalow: Dr. Herman Gundert, revered German missionary, Scholar and thelexicographer lived in this bungalow for 20 years from 1839. It was here one of thefirst Malayalam newspaper - paschimodayam took shape.

Parassinikadavu Snake Park: The ideal and the unforgettable thrill of seeing snakeswhich is the only one of its kind in the state and perhaps whole of India.

Payyambalam Beach: Beach is famous for its flats laterite cliffs that just into the sea. Thewell laid gardens and the massive landscaped sculpture of ‘Mother and Child’ make itextremely captivating.

Arakkal Kettu: This was the residence of the former Arakkal Ali Raja’s the only MulsimRoyal Family of Kerala. Ali Rajas predecessors lives here.

Valapattanam: The small town on the Valappattanam River is well known for its woodbased industries and timber trade. The port of Azhikkal and the beach there locatednearby.

Thalassery Fort : The fort constructed in 1708 was the military centre of the British. Nowa historical monument nearby the fort is SAIGymnastic Centre, an old Muslim Mosque, theJaganatha Temple and Thiruvangad SreeRama Swami Temple situated.

Kizhunna Ezhara Beach (II km from Kannur):This beautiful stretch of sand is one of 1/ themost secluded beaches in Kerala.

Parassinikadavu (18 km from Kannur town):Sri Muthappan Temple stands on the banks ofthe Valapattanam river. This pilgrim centre is


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famous for the Muthappan Theyam performed every morning and evening.

Dharmadam Island (100 metres away from the main land at Dharmadam): The small5.5 acre island covered with coconut palms and dense bushes is a beautiful sight fromthe beach. The island is owned by Department of Tourism.

Muzhappilangad Beach (15 km from Kannur and 8 km from Thalassery : This is Kerala’sonly drive-in beach where you can drive down the entire length of 4 km.

Meenkunnu Beach (12 Km from Kannur): Uncrowded, the beach is a tourists’ paradise,with golden sand and surf.

Ezhimala : The beautiful beach here hasa hillock nearby. Carved stone pillars andan ancient burial chamber can be seen atthe foot of the hills. The hills are noted forrare medicinal herbs. A naval academy isbeing built here.

St. Angelo Fort (3 km from Kannur) Thisseafront laterite fort was constructed in1505 AD by the first Portuguese Viceroy,Don Francisco De Almeda, with theconsent of the ruling Kolathiri Raja. Afterchanging hands from the Portuguese tothe Dutch and then to the English, the fortbecame one of the important military centres of the British in Malabar. The fort, which isnow under the Archaeological Survey of India, offers a fascinating view of the Mappilabay fishing harbour.

Sree Ramaswami Temple, Thiruvangad (23 km from Kannur): This temple dedicatedto Sri Rama is one of the most important temples in Malabar.

Madayi Para (25 Km from Kannur): The Madayi Kavu Temple, the Vadukunnu Templeand the 12th century mosque built by Malik bin Deenar with white marble imported fromArabia, are the major attractions here. There is also a dilapidated fort at Madayi which issupposed to have been built by Tipu Sultan of Mysore. The view from the fort is fascinating.

Malayala Kalagramam (23 km from Kannur): This renowned centre for art and cultureat New Mahe, conducts courses in painting, sculpture, music, dance and pottery.

Pazhasi Dam (37 km east of Kannur): An ideal retreat for tourists, the damsite is famousfor its scenic beauty.

Pythal Mala (65 km from town): This enchanting hill station, situated 4,500 ft. above sealevel near the Kerala - Karnataka border, is rich in flora and fauna. It is a 6 km trek to thetop of the hills.

Aralam- Wildlife Sanctuary (35 kmfrom Thalassery): Elephants, sloth bears, sambars,mouse deer etc. can be found in the 55 sq. km sanctuary.

Cherukunnu: Famous for its Anna Poorneswari Temple where the week long annual


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festival falls in April. There is a Kathakali-Panchavadya school called Asthikalaaya nearthe temple.

Kunhimangalam: This place near Payyanur is famous for its unique bronze lamps andsculptures.

FESTIVALS

Theyyam Festivals at various temples (Dec. - May) Kottiyoor Festval (May - June / July)

HOTELS & RESORTS

(Tharrifs are subject to change) Tariff (Rs.) Phone

Kannur (+91 497)Kaiali Heritage Resort 3500-4000 0460-2241665Costa Malabari 2500-3000 0484-2371761KTDC Tamarind Easy Hotel 1400-2500 2700717Apsara oalace 1300-3000 2762833Mascort Beach resort 1200-2800 2708445Royal Omars 900-3800 2769091Malabar Residency 850-3000 2765456Green Park Residency 750-2500 2767744Sky Palace 750-1950 2769060Palm Shore Beach Resort 700-2200 2831137Asian Heritage 700-1800 2702346Palmgrove Tourist Home 500-1200 2703182Savoi Hotel 450-900 2760074Grand Safire 450-900 2760047Omars Inn 300-860 2706313Pranav Beach Resort 450-1750 2741148Hotel Meridian Palace 250-1200 2701676Broad& Bean, New Bus Stand 1000-3000 2717777Thalassery (+91-490)Cheera Rocks Beach House 2800-5000 2343211The Pearl View Regency 950-1150 2326702Thapasya Heritage 500-2500 2782944Skypark, Mattannur 500-2000 2474901Sharara Plaza 500-1800 2341101Paris Presidency 490-1200 2342666Sree Gokulam Fort 425-950 2321222Falcon 440-900 2491879K K Residency 300-800 2493468Mark Residency 250-950 2321014Sangamam Tourist Home 190-2000 2344457itty (+91-490)K K Residency, Kannur 1100-3500 04985-201111K K Tourist Home 300-800 2493468


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K A S A R A G O DAccess code : +91-4994

The northern most district of Kerala, shares the borders with Karnataka. Kasaragod iswell known for its coir and handloom industries. Prime source of livelihood of thepeople is fishing. As its name puts Kasaragod is known as the land of gods, Forts,Rivers, hills and beautiful Beaches. Largest Fort in Kerala, Bekal is in Kasaragod.

Places to Visit

Bekal Fort : For most among the tourist attractive in Kasaragod, superly locatedoverlooking the Arabian Sea this fort having historic importance is over 300 years oldand is one of the best preserved and largest forts in Kerala. At a height of 130 Ft bovesea level the cuircular port is situated 164 km south of Kasaragod and build in area of35 acres.

Bekal Fort Beach : For built in the sea shore is attracting numbers of travelers.Spectacular view of the fort near by the sea.

Tejaswini Valiyaparamba Back Waters: this is one of the most scenic backwaterstretches in Kerala. Fed by four rivers and dotted with numerous little Island, this muchfavoured destination offers enchanting boat cruises.

Chandragiri: Situated on the banks of Chandragiri River, south east of Kasaragod town.This town is known for a Fort built by Sivappa Naik of Bedanore the 17th Century. TheChandragiri Fort, one of the chain of forts built by the same ruler, offers a breath takingview of the river and the Arabia Sea.

Cheruvathur: The Home of illustrious poets and scholors of Kuttamat. The ruins of aDutch fort built in the 18th century can be found in Veeramala Hills. Cheruvathur is alsoa fascinating picnic spot.

Bekal hole Aqua Park: Park moving its unique offers waters spot facilities like Pedalboats and Water Cycles.

Manjeswaram :One of the prominent pilgrim centers in Kerala which includes a numberof temples not only for this but also for its cashew growing.


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Kappil Beach: Remote and secluded, this beach is past becoming a major touristattraction. The kodicliff nearby offers panoramic view of the Arabian Sea.

The Bekal Tourism Project : 130 acres of pristine land with all the attractions includingbackwaters, beeches, hill stations etc, is being developed into what will be Asia’s finestResort.

Bekal Resorts Development Corporation (BRDC) was set up by the Government ofKerala to develop Bekal as a tourist destination. BRDC focuses on planned, environmentfriendly and geographically viable methods of development. The Company concentrateson setting up comprehensive tourism infrastructure, at the same time ensuring that thedevelopment is beneficial to the local community.Anandasram (15 km from Bekal) : Thisinternationally renowned spiritual centrefounded by Swami Ramdas in 1939,offers a quiet, peaceful ambience bestsuited for meditation and spiritualstudies.

Chandragiri Fort, one of a chain of fortsbuilt by the same ruler, offers abreathtaking view of the river and theArabian Sea.Ananthapuram Lake Temple (30 kmfrom Bekal): This 9th century temple isthe only lake temple in Kerala and isthe moolasthanam (original abode) ofAnanthapadmanabha, the diety of Sree Padmanabha Swami Temple,Thiruvananthapuram.

Chandragiri Cruises: Boat trips to nearby islands and palm groves. Boarding point:Chandragiri bridge.

Kanwatheertha Beach (3 km from Manjeswaram): A large swimming pool-like formationof the sea on the vast beach is the main attraction.

Kanhangad/Hosdurg Fort: This is renowned for its chain forts built by SomashekaraNayak of Ikkeri dynasty and also for the Nithyanandashram, an internationally recognisedspiritual centre.

Sree Mahalingeswara Temple, Adoor (45 km from Kasaragod): Located in woodedsurroundings on the southern banks of the River Payaswini, this ancient Siva Templecontains a Sanskrit inscription in Kannada script which has been ascribed to the WesternChalukya King Kirthivarman II (745 - 755 AD).

Kottancherry (30 km north east of Kanhangad): This place bears great resemblance tothe scenic beauty of Kodaikanal.

Ranipuram (85 km from Kasaragod town): Ranipuram in its natural beauty is comparableto Ooty Wild elephants can be seen wandering on the top of the mountains.

Edneer Mutt (10 km north past of Kasaragod: The Mutt of Edneer renowned as a seat ofart and learning belongs to the Sankaracharya tradition.


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Possadigumpe (18 km east of Mangalpady in Dharmathadka): This is an ideal picnicspot, located on a hillock 1060 ft. above sea level.

Central Plantation Crops & Research Institute (CPCRI):The Institute was establishedin 1970 by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research and has its headquarters inKudlu, 5 km north of Kasaragod.

Pandiyan Kallu: A rock rising in the sea about 2 km from the Trikkannad Temple, PandiyanKallu is an ideal spot for adventurous swimmers.

Malik Deenar Mosque: The historic Malik Deener Juma Masjid built in the typical Keralastyle is believed to have been founded by Malik Ibin Dinar. The Juma Masjid, which isone of the best kept and most attractive in the district is located at Thalankara.

Nileswaram: The cultural centre of the district, this was the seat of the Nileswar Rajas.The Nileswanm Palace today functions as the folklore centre of the Dept. of Archaeology.The town is also famous for its numerous kavus (shrines), temple festivals and theKavil Bhavan Yoga and Cultural Centre which offers rejuvenation therapy and naturopathytreatments like mud and herbal baths.

ART FORMS

Yakshagana: This classical art form of Karnataka isvery common in Kasaragod. Two variations of thisperforming art are Bayalattu and Bommayattu. KannadaParthy Subba, the father ofYakshagana belongs toKumbla in Kasaragod · Professional agency - KottoorKarthikeya Kalakendra, Kottoor PO, Muliyar, Kasaragod.

HOTELS AND RESORTS(Tariff’s are subject to change)

KASARAGOD (+91-4994)Hotel Highway Castle 1500-2500 226056J K Residency 750-1500 220755Hotel Deiracity Residency 700-1500 224552Seed Way Inn 300-1500 222666Apsara Regency 300-800 220424Bekal (+91-467)Lalit Resort & Spa 2000-55000 2237777Nirvana 3200-3900 2272900Ktees Residency 200-1500 2275633Ranji’s Rest Inn 150-750 2237625Kanhangad (+91-467)Neeleswar Hermitage 16500-20000 2287510Kanhan Beach Resort 5000-24000 9446127539Oyster Opera 3600-6200 2278101Sreegokulam 800-2500 2282662Nalanda resortsHotel Landmark 800-2000 2208071Hotel Bekal International 350-1300 2202017


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W A Y A N A DACCESSING WAYANAD

Telephone access code: +91-4936

Wayanad is one of the districts in Kerala that has been able to retain its pristine nature.Hidden away in the hills Of this land are some of the oldest tribes, as yet untouched bycivilisation. Wayanad is known for its picturesque mist-clad hill stations, sprawlingspice plantations, luxuriant forests and rich cultural traditions. The leading tourist centresof South India like Ooty, Mysore, Coorg, Kozhikode and Kannur are around this region.

Places to visit

Thirunelly Temple : Surrounded by Kambamala, Karimala and Varadiga, the ThirunellyTemple is a marvel of temple architecture. The shrine is shielded with 30 granitecolumn and the ground is paved with huge square pieces of granite. The crystal clearwaters of the Papanisaini River running downhill add to the enchantment of the place.

Waynad Wildlife Sanctuary : Estalished with the objective of conserving the biologicalheritage of the region in 1973, the Sanctuary is a protected area. This is an intergral partof the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve Forest. Very rich in flora and fauna is on the Nagarholeand Bandipur of Karnataka on the northeast and ·Mudumalai of Tamil Nadu on thesoutheast.

Lakkidi : lakkidi is the gateway to W ayanad. Thedramatic scenery of thegreen peaks, glitteringstreams and forest of theregion add magic charm tothe journey up the windingroads to this hill station,situated 700 meters abovesea level begins thevastness and desolation ofthe Outback.

Edakkal Caves : The two caves are located at a height of 1000m on Ambukutty Mala nearAmbalavayal. The new stone age pictorial writings on the walls of these natural cavesat Edakkal are evidence of the civilisation that existed in these regions in prehistorictimes.

MANANTHAVADY

Valliyurkavu Bhagavathy Temple (2 km east of Mananthavady) The temple is dedicatedto goddess Durga.


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Pakshipathalam (7.5 km from Thirunelly): This place can be accessed only by trekking.Rare species of birds can be sighted from the watch tower of this bird sanctuary.

Kuruvadweep (15 km east of Mananthavady 158 km northwest of Sulthan Bathery):This 950 acre, uninhabited island on the eastward bound Kabani River is an idealpicnic spot. The wooded stretch of land is home to rare species of birds, orchids andherbs.

Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary (20 km east of Mananthavady): This sanctuary has a widevariety of animals.

Pazhassi tomb (35 km northeast of Kalpetta; The memorial of the ‘Lion of Kerala’ -Veera Pazhassi Raja - who organised the guerilla warfare against the British East IndiaCompany, is situated at Mananthavady. The Pulpally cave is where Pazhassi took refugeuntil he was captured by the British.

Nagarhole Wildlife Sanctuary (40 km fromMananthavady): This sanctuary in Karnataka stateextends over an area of 643.39 sq. km. The parkhouses diverse species of plant and animal life.

KALPETTAChembra peak (18 km west of Kalpetta: At 2100 mabove mean sea level, Chembra is the highest peakin Wayanad and is an ideal area for trekking.

Banasura Project, Padinjarathara (25 km northeast of Kalpetta: A mini hydrel projectwith the largess earth dam in India and the second largest in Asia is built here. Asprawling sanctuary and park with ever flowering trees are major tourist attractions.

Meenmutty Waterfalls (23 km from Kalpetta): An interesting 2 km jungle trek of the\main Ootty road, Meenmutty is the largest most spectacular water fall in Wayanad.

Sentinel Rock Waterfalls (23 km away from Kalpetta: Locally known as soochipara,the pool at the foot of the falls is ideal for a quick dip. The more restrained can haveequally good fun just taking in the scenery.

Kanthanpara Waterfalls (22 km away from Kalpetta): Smaller than sentinel rock,Kanthanpara and it’s surroundings make for an ideal picnic spot.

SULTHAN BATHERY

Ambalavayal Heritage Museum (10 km from Sulthan Bathery): One of the best heritagemuseums in Kerala, it houses artefacts and belongings of the various tribes of theland.

Pookot Lake (15 km away from Kalpetta): This perennial fresh water lake, nestledamong wooded hills, is the only one of its kind in Kerala. Boating facilities, a children’spark, a handicrafts and spices emporium and a fresh water aquarium are among thetourist facilities available here.


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Other attractions in Wayanad: · Chethalayam Waterfalls: 12 km from Sulthan BatheryPanamaram Jain Temple: 23 km from Sulthan Bathery · Pallikkunnu Church: 12 kmnorth of Kalpetta · Kallianarhum Pallickal Mosque: 10 km southwest of/Mananthavady .Agriculture Research Station: 25 km south of Sulthan Bathery · Karalad Lake: 16 kmwest of Kalpetta · Sunrise Valley at Kadasseri: 20 km south of Sulthan Bathery KaduvaKuzhi at Ambalavayal: 15 km south of Sulthan Bathery · Karappuzha Dam: 13 km northeastKalpetta · Jain Temple, Sulthan Bathery: 25 km from Kalpetta

HOTELS & RESORTS

(Tharrifs are subject to change) Tariff (Rs.) TelVythiri (00 91 4936)Green Magic Nature Resort 8580 0495-2356136Jungle Park 3000-6500 0495-6521163Vythiri Resort 3500-5500 255366Stream Valley Cottages 2875-7000 255860Rain Country Resort 2700-3900 329798Wynberg Resort 1800-4000 320630Sultan Bateri (91 4936)Edakkal Hermitage 3300-3800 221860Orchid Resort 2350-4250 262844Kalpatta (91 4936)Royal Palm Holiday Home 1700-5000 206096Green Gates Hotel 1350-3000 202001Tholpetty (91 4935)Pachyderm palace 2500-3000 0484-2371761

Nelliampathy


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AYURVEDA CENTRESGreen Leaf

Thiruvananthapuram (+91 471) Anandam Travancore Heritage ph : 2267828 CharakaKrishnatheeram Ayur Holy Beach Resorts Ph : 0470 2601305 Bela Ayurvedic Health Centre Isola DiCocco Ayurvedic Beach Resort Ph : 2210008 Manaltheeram Ayurveda Beach Village Ph : 2266222 Nikki’s Nest Ph : 2267822 Soft TouchAyurveda Centre Thre Leela Kovalam Beach .Ph: 2480101 Somatheeram Ayurvedic BeachResort Ph : 2268101 Taj varkala AyurvedicCentre Taj Garden Retreat Ph : 0470-2603000 Thapovan Ayurveda Centre Ph : 2482430

Kollam : (+91-474) Ashtamudi Resort Ph :0476-2882288 Sree Narayana Institute ofAyurvedic Studies and Research Ph : 2417036

Alappuzha : (+91 477) Krishnendu AyurvedaHospital Ph : 0479-2486337 Pambatheeram Ayurvedic Riverside Village Ph: 0479-2450665 Sanjeevani Ayurvedic CentrePunnamada Resorts Ph : 2233690 The MarariBeach Resort Ph: 0478 2863801

Kottayam : (+91-481) Athreya Ayruvedic Centre Ph : 2360789 Ayurmana Kumarakom Lake Resortph : 2524900 Coconut Lagoon Ayurvedic Centre Ph: 2524491 The Taj Ayurvedic Centre Taj GardenRetreat Ph : 2524377 Vedasparsh Backwater Ripples Ph : 2523600

Idukki : (+91 -486) Ayurvedic Health Centre Club Mahindra Lake View Ph : 04868-249224 AyuraCardamom Country Parks and Hotels Pvt. Ltd. Spice Village Ayurvedic Centre Ph : 04869-222316 Sahyadri Ayurveda health Resort Ph : 04869-232247 Taj Garden Retreat Ph : 04869 222403

Ernakulam : (+91-484) Ayur Vaid Hospital Ph : 2311399 Kamyakam Haven Resort Ph : 2432701 Nagarjuna Ayurvedic Centre Ph : 2463350 Softtouch Ayurvedic Centre Hotel Le MeridienPh : 2705777 Tamara Spa Ayurveda Taj Malabar Willingdon Island Ph : 2668010

Thrissur : (+91 -487) Chikilsalayam Kadappuram Resort & Hotels Pvt. Ltd. Ph : 2394988 MajlisHealth Park Ltd. Ph : 2212845

Palakkad : (+91 491) Kairali Ayurvedic Health Resort Ph : 04924-222553 Rajah Healthy AcresPh : 0466-2371441

Malappuram : (+91 473) Kadavu Ayurvedic Health Centre Kadavu Resort Ph : 2830570

Kozhikode : (+91-495) Harivihar Ayurvedic Heritage Home Ph : 2765865 Taj Ayurveda Centre TajResidency Ph : 2765354

Olive Leaf Thiruvananthapuram (91 471) Ayur Asram -Uday Samudra Telefax : 2483111 Coconut Bay Ayurveda Centre - Coconut bay Beach Resort Ph : 2480566 Guruprakash AyurvedaCentre - Ph : 2480352 Ideal Ayurvedic Resort Ph : 2268632 JV Ayurveda Bhavan Ph : 2478517 Keraleeya Ayurveda Samajam Hospital & Nursing Home Ph : 2338145 Linchu Ayurvedic Resort Ph: 2481010 Niraamaya Ayurveda Spa Surya Samudra Holiday Resort Ph : 2267333 Preeth Ayurvedic


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Beach Resort Telefax : 0470 2600942 Ribs Health Care Dr. Franklins Panchakarma InstitutePh; 2480870 Sanjeevani Ayurveda and Yoga Centre Ph: 0470-2603112 Travancore Heritage Ayurvedic Centre Ph: 2267828-32

Kollam

Amruta Ayurveda Hospital Ayurarogya Speciality Centre Ph: 3259132 Sree Shanmukha VilasamHospital Ph: 0475 2222225

Pathanamthitta : (+91 -468) Ayurvedic Speciality Hospital Ph: 04734-224362

Alappuzha : (+91-477) Warriers Hospital & Panchakarma Centre Kayamkulam

Kottayam : (+91-481) Amba Ayurveda Hospital Ph: 2420354 Chamundi Hill Palace AyurvedicResort Ph: 04828-251246 Dhanwanthari Ayurvedic Centre The Windsor Castle lake Village Ph : 2363637

Idukki : Charakas Ayurvea Hospital Ph: 04862 200756

Ernakulam : (+91-484) Anvin Ayurvedic Ph: 2781754 Ayurkendram Dhanwanthari AyurvedicCentre Ph: 2361083 Kerala Ayurveda Ltd. Ph: 2476301 Karma Ayurvedic centre (p)Ltd. Ph :2390738 Merry Land Panchakarma Institute Ph : 2611275 Punarnava Ayurveda Hospital Telefax :2801415 The Kerala Ayurvedic Health Spa Ph; 2608410 Trident Hilton Ayurved centre Island HotelMaharaj Lrd. Ph: 2669595

Thrissur : (+91-487) Ayur Yogaashram Ph:04884-237977 Ashtavaidyan Thaikkattu MoosVaidyaratnam Nursing Home Ph: 2351843 Holy Basil River Retreat Ph: 04884 262244 OushadhiPanchakarma Hospital and Research Institute Ph:2334519 Sitaram Ayurveda Speciality Hospital Ph:2448570 SNA Ayurveda Nursing Home Telefax : 2441947

Kozhikode : (91-496) Nithyananda Ayurvedic Hospital Ph: 2621849

Wayanad : (91-4936) Ayurkendra Ayurveda Hospital Ph: 04936 203953

Kannur : (+91-497) Asoka panchakarma and Orthopaedic Clinic Ph : 2712696

IATA IATO Approved travel Agents / Tour OperatorsTHIRUVANANTHAPURAM

Air Travel Enterprises Ph : 2320710 Aries Travels, Press Road Ph ; 2330964 Akbar Travels ofIndia Ph : 2722466 Butterfly holidays Ph: 2490907 Carmel Travel Pvt. Ltd Ph: 2440561 City

Link Travel Corporation Ph; 2326228 CreativeTours & Travels Pvt. Ltd Ph : 2321475 ChristurajaTours & travels Ph 2500921 Destination DesignersTelefax: 2571021 ITL Tours & travels Ph : 2469555 Jayasree Travels & Tour Company Ph ; 2743603 Kerala travels Ph: 3018610-17

Lawson Travels & Tours (India) Pvt. Ltd. Ph:2329985 Overseas Air Travel & Tour OperatorsPh: 2330075 Olympus Travels Ph: 2321106 PL Worldways Ltd Ph: 2729364 Riya Travels &tours Ph : 4085000 Southernholidays Ph: 2460701 South Park tours & Travels Pvt. Ltd. Ph : 2323974


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Stargate Travel Bureau Ph : 2314698 Swastik Tours & travels Ph : 2331691 The Great India TourCompany Ph : 2331516 The Travel Company Ph : 2436850 United Tours & Travels Ph : 2331657 Universal tours & Tracels Telefax : 2314328

KOLLAM

United Tours & Travels Ph : 2740532

PATHANAMTHITTA

Akbar Travels Ph : 2225040 International Tours & Travels Ph : 0469-2631005 Orion travels Pvt.Ltd. Ph: 0469 2630403

ALAPPUZHA

Associated Air Travels Anu travels Ph : 2253637 Blue Lagoons, West of Zilla Court BridgeTelefax: 2260103 C.V. Travels DTPC Ph : 2253308 Emu Tours & Travels Ph : 2252392 GulfIndia travels, Civil Station Rd. Ph: 2251043 Garuda Travels Ph: 2263035 Indira TravelsPh : 2251159 Karavel Travels Ph: 2253033 Panicker’s Travels Ph : 3290490 Pooja Tours &Travels, Mullackal Ph : 2238857 Vinod Travels Ph: 2262138 VIP Travels Ph : 2253164

KOTTAYAM

Akbar Travels of India Pvt. Ltd Ph: 2583612 Concord Tours & Travels Ph : 2560350 Falcon AirTravels Ph: 2561112

IDUKKI

Thekkady

Global Tour Operators & Travel Agents, Kumily Telefax : 223467 Mickey Travels, KumilyPh: 222196 Tourmark Ph: 224332 Thekkady Tours and Travels, Kumily Telefax:222988

Peermedu

Happy Holidays Telefax : 230283

ERNAKULAM : (91-484)

Air Travel Enterprises Ph:2369246 Akbar Travels of india Ph: 2373788 Anna Maria Travels &Tours Fax:2358963 Admiral Travel Bureau Ph: 2360811 Alhind Tours & Travels Telefax: 2351679 Atlanta Travels Ph: 2384538 Al Ban Travels Pvt. Ltd. Ph: 2371428 Austin International TravelsPh: 2362345 Chakiath Air Travels & Cargo Ph: 2459247 Creative Travel & Tours Ph: 2372160 Concord Tours & Travels Ph: 2318002 Coastline Holiday Ph: 2372826

Ebenezer Holidays Ph: 2383733 Euro Airvoyages & Tours Ph: 2363435 Forvol InternationalTravels Ph: 2668446 Galilee Travel and Cargo Agency Pvt. Ltd. Ph:2318655 Govan Travels Ph:2380775 Gulf India Tours & Travels Ph : 2360788 Green Wave Holidays Ph: 2323123 ITL Tours& Travels Ph:2374555 Jai Hind Travels Ph: 2353249 Kerala Travels Interserve Ltd. Ph: 2370760 Lawson Tours & Travels Telefax: 2382862 Libran Tours & Travels Ph: 2356287 Marvel Tours (p)Ltd. Ph: 2323652 MB Travels Ph: 2667612 Peacock Tours & Travels Ph : 2361320 New AlledTours & Travels Telefax : 2316692 New Travel Mart Ph: 2350189 NPK Tours & TravelsPh:2353650 Omega Travel & Tourist Agency Ph: 2369417 Oasis Tour India Ltd. Ph:2361343 Olympus Travels Ph : 2373630 Osaka Air Travels Ph:2455216 Paradise Tours & Travels Ph:2218050 Pioneer Travels Ph : 2666148 PL Worls Ways Ltd. Ph: 2354373 Planners Group Fax:


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2370459 Royal Tours & Travels Ph: 2381761 Skyworld Travels Pvt. Ltd. Ph : 2394669 SkylineAir Link Ph: 2370869 Speed Link Tours & Travels Ph: 2353353 Sita World Travel (India) Pvt. Ltd.Ph: 2374121 Travel Corporation of India Ph: 2358667 Trade Wings Fax: 2352594 The GreatIndia Tour Company Ph: 2317004 Thomas Cook (I) Ltd. Ph : 2369729 Trinity Air Travel & ToursPh: 2453954 Viceregat Travels Ph: 2381663 Week Tours Ph: 2220168

THRISSUR

Trinity Air Travel & Tours Ph: 2331172 Olympus Travels Ph: 2422760 Supersonic Travels Ph:2422027 Josey Tours & Travels Pvt. Ltd. Ph: 2444467 Akbar Travels Ph: 2426198 Trichur Cars& Travels Ph: 2446036 P.A.Travels Ph: 2331288 Green Line Travels Ph: 2382150 Francis TaxisPh: 93877 54065 Dakshin Holidays Ph: 0487-2421224 Benzyleo Holidays Pvt.Ltd. Ph: 2336888 Bay Watch Tours & Travels Ph: 0487-2320788 Namasthe Kerala Holidays Ph: 0484-3201121

PALAKKAD

Akbar Travels of India Ph: 2546546 Jet Travels Ph: 2537833

MALAPPURAM

Akbar Travels of India, Malappuram Ph: 2734606 National Tours & Travels Ph: 0494-2460935 SK Associates Ph: 2738655 Thaibah Travels Ph: 2743126 Tirur Safia Travels Ph: 0494-2422093 UT United Travels Ph: 0494-2424547

KOZHIKODE

Air Travel Enterprises Ph: 2723693 Ph: 2723693 Akbar Travels of India Ph: 2765085 Altima AirTravels Links Telefax: 2720877 Al Hind Tours & Travels Pvt.Ltd . Telefax : 2720405

KANNUR

Air Travel Enterprises Ph: 2766393 Akbar Travels of India Ph : 2766805 Naveen TravelsPh: 2701514 Star of Asia Tours & Travel Agent Ph: 2700814 Sansui Travels Telefax : 2769471 Kalpaka Travels Ph : 2709760

KASARAGOD

Moulavi Travels Ph: 230338 Akbar Travels Ph:221799 Bekal Holidays Ph: 0467-2310777


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ESSENTIAL KERALAWorld’s Best Breakfast: Kerala wakes up to one of the best breakfasts in the world– both in terms of taste and nutritional value. Some of theitems that usually occupy the morning table are the puttu(made of rice flour and coconut) and kadala (gram) curry;idiyappam (noodle-like rice cakes) and egg/vegetable curry;appam (soft centered lacy pancakes) and mutton/vegetablestew. Little wonder that Travel & Leisure chose Kerala’smorning spread as one of the best breakfast of the world!

Sumptuous Sadya: Served on a plantain leaf and eatenwith the hand, the sadya is the traditional feast of Kerala. A five-course meal, the sadya

includes an amazing variety of up to 27 vegetarian delights.Crispy pappadoms (wafers deep fried in coconut oil) anda variety of pickles accompany this sumptuous spread. TheSadya is rounded off with different varieties of payasams(sweet deserts).

Seafood Delights: With a long coastline, over 44 rivers,innumerable lagoons and lakes, Kerala has abundantmarine wealth. Among the seafood delicacies are prawns,

lobsters, crabs, mussels etc. all enticingly cooked with exotic spices. Karimeen or pearlspot, a backwater fish, is famous for its great taste.

Irresistible Delicacies: The Moplah cuisine of Malabar and the Syrian Christian cuisineof Central Kerala are unique in its rich flavor. While the former show clear Arabic influences,the latter has been influenced by Syrian, Dutch, Portuguese and the British. Extensiveuse of fish, red chilies and kudampuli, a souring agent sets apart Syrian Christan cuisine.The lightly flavored aromatic Malabar Biriyani is a treat for the taste buds.

Poorams

Spectacular among the festivals of Kerala arethe poorams held in the temples of CentralKerala. The poorams are marked by theirimpressive procession of caparisonedelephants and Panchavadyam, the traditionalpercussion ensemble. Thrissur Pooram,often referred to as the Mother of all Pooramsis noted for this spectacular display offireworks.

Elephant Pageants

No celebration in Kerala is complete withoutan elephant pageant. This gentle giant is accorded the privilege of escorting the numerousgods and goddesses of this land. The elephant pageants feature colorfully decked-up


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pachyderms, with mahaouts atop them holding aloft tinseled silk parasols, swaying whitetufts and peacock feather fans.

Boat Races

The largest team sport in the world, the snakeboat races of Kerala are held in connection withOnam, the harvest festival. A snake boat isusually manned by four helmsmen, 25 singersand 100-125 oarsmen who row in unison to thefast rhythm of the vanchipattu (song of theboatman).

Classical Arts

The traditional of classical arts existed in Kerala for more than a thousand years.

Koodiyattam: The Sanskrit theatre of Kerala, Koodiyattom is believed to have originatedtwo millennia ago. This art form was declared by UNESCO as one among ‘themasterpieces of the oral and intangible heritage of humanity’.

Kathakali: The spectacular dance drama of Kerala, Kathakali integrates dance, music,poetry and histrionics, Referred to as the ‘first theatre of imagination’ in the world, itcombines both lasya (gentle, graceful dance) and thandava (powerful, energetic dance)

elements.

Mohiniyattom: The gracefully elegant classicaldance form, Mohiniyattom is the dance of theenchantress and has lasya as the predominantelement.

Folk Arts: Kerala has a vast repertoire of folkperforming arts, folk songs and folk drama thatshowcase man’s overpowering rapport withnature and his constant desire for communication

with the unknown.

Theyyam: One of the most outstanding folk arts of Kerala. Theyyam has its originsin the northern parts of the State. The oldest ritual art form, there are about 45 differenttypes of Theyyams including the Agni Theyyam where the dance walks on fire.

Thira, Mudiyettu, Kaduvakali, Velakali, Kakkarissinatakam, Chavittunatakam, Margamkali,Kolkali, Parichamuttukali, Bhadrakalipattu, Pulluvanpattu and Thiruvathirakali are someof the other folk art forms of Kerala.

Martial Arts

Kalaripayattu : The comprehensive system of martial arts of Kerala, Kalaripayattu isregarded as one of the oldest and most scientific in the world. Even Kung-fu is believedto have originated from it.


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ACCIDENT SERVICE 24 HRSAccident Police helpline 3245000 / 3243000Highway Police helpline 9846100100

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Chamber of Commerce 2317555

ELECTRONIC MEDIA

ACV 2355353Asianet 2378407City Channel 2451456Dooradarshan 2730661Jeevan 2318219MM TV 2328198Surya 2313177Amrita 2338981Bharath 3261119CTV 3092009India Vision 2325100Kairali 2572250Panorama 24661160

ELECTRIC SUPPLYBeach 2502562Control Room 2461399Candonment 2314280Control Room 2461399Fort 2461040Kazhakuttam 2414999Kulathur 2593023

Nalanchire 2531686Peroorkada 2433142Poojapura 2342964Sreekaryam 2598591Thirumala 2353136Thycadu 2321346Vattiyoorkavu 2360854Vydhuthi Bhavan 2448989

GOVERNMENT OFFICES

Agricultural Departments 2304481Civil Supplies 2321152Commercial Taxes 2321252Education Director 2303548Fisheries Department 2303160Govt. Press 2331458Land Revenue 2320376KSIDC 2318922PSC Office 2448165

DISTRICT ADMINISTRATION

Corp. of Trivandrum 2320821Enquiries 2320821District Collector 2462471Mayor 2322470

HELPLINE

Abhaya 2462620Friends 2338652Women Helpline 2465627Children Helpline 2339160Red Cross 2478106

HOSPITALS

Samad 2474203Sat hospital 2444270Span 2477090Sree dhari aryavaidyasala 2320304St jude 2345513Taluk 2222235Valsala nursing home 2320982

PUBLIC UTILITY SERVICES - THIRUVANANTHAPURAM


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Vasudeva vilasom 2451636Pankajakasthuri 0472-2895391Al-arif 2381715Arumana 2451439Govt hospital 2390276Homeopathic hospital 2472600Medical college 2444270Nirmala 2445320Regional cancer centre 2442541Santhwana 2432121S P fort 2450540Sree chithira med. centre 2443152TB hospital 2442041Vanchinad 2443829W & C hospital 2323457

KSRTC

Attingal 0470 - 2622202East fort 2463029Neyyattinkara 2222243

TAMILNADU ROAD TRANSPORTPappanamkode 2491609Thampanoor 2327756Peroorkada 2433683

Police Control room 100DGP 2721601Adgp head quarters 2728415DIG (Inteligence) 2554452AC 2460352Cantonment 2331794DCPA & crimes 2322682Crime stopper 1090Kovalam 2480255Museum police station 2315096Peroorkada 2433243Police head quarters 2721547Poonithura 2380729

Traffic police helpline 1099SP (railway police) 2320619Valiyathuraya 2501833

Postal ServicesCPMG 2308060RMS 2331866GPO 2473071PRESSBusiness line 2502013Deepika 2461845Economic times 2321420Kerala kaumudi 2461050Madhyamam 2459013Malayalam news 2326575Mathrubhumi 2461617PTI 2324926South indian news 2571504Thaniniram 2467618The new indian express 2729759Tourism india 2315256Chandrika 2336955Deshabhimani 2331206Janmabhumi 2470382Kerala sabdam 2751010Malayala Manorama 2328198Mangalam 2320328Press club 2331642Siraj 2576333Sakal 9447025045The Hindu 2502001The Times of India 2321420Veekshanam 2321049

RAILWAYS

Central 2323066Neyyattinkara 22222341Reservation enquiries 132Genl info 131Pettah 2470181Train arrival 133Telephone serviecesBSNL enquiry 2544040Hutch 98460 98460Reliance 30333333


76

PUBLIC UTILITY SERVICES - KOTTAYAM

AMBULANCEBharat Group 0482 2214234Dhanwandari Service Socity 0481 2598935District Hospital 0481 2563611Medical College 0481 2597311BLOOD BANKSCaritas Hospital, Thellakam 0481 2597325Tndo-American Hospital, Vaikom 0481 2621701Rotary Blood Bank 0481 2301110Do 0481 2567504Medical College 0481 2597311Medical college hospital, Gandhinagar 0481 2597316Rotary Blood Bank, Kottayam0481 2301110CHANNELSAsianet, Kottayam 0481 2569910Jeevan T.V., Kottayam 0482 8272459Kairali T.V. Kottayam 0481 2583318Surya T.V., Kottayam 0481 2552079Do... 0481 2301616DAILYChandrika 0481 2580030Desabhimani 0481 2583315Janmabhumi 0481 2302006Kerala Kaumudi 0481 2585212Madyamam Bureau 0481 2568897Malayala Manorama 0481 2563646Mangalam Publiucations 0481 2560324Mathrubhumi Printing & Publishing Ltd. 0481 2560485Rastradeepika 0481 2566706ELECTRICITY OFFICESAccounts Officer Exe Eng. 0481 2361765KSEB PallomAsst. Eng. 66 KV sub Stn. 0481 2597695KSEB GNRAsst. Eng. SE Transmission 0481 2342942Circle, Pvntruth

Asst Exe Eng, Ele. section Off, 0481 2562937Baker HillAsst Exe. Eng. Relay Sub Div. 0481 2360266KSEB PallomChanganacherry 0481 2420093Res. NattakomElectrical Division Off ice, Pallom 0481 2360323Exe Eng. Res Electrical Division 0481 2362317KSEB, PallomExe Eng. transmission Division 0481 2597358KSEB GNRJunior Engineer Electrical 0481 2597358Section GNRKanjikuzhy 0481 2578412Kanjirappally 0482 2202308Kottayam (Central) 0481 2568050Kottayam (East) 0481 2562937District AdministrationO.E.O., Kanjirappally 0482 2221357D.E.O, Kottayam 0481 2566750O.E.O., Pala 0482 2212351D.E.O., Kaduthuruthy 0482 9282998D.I.C. 0481 2570042D.M.O. Health 0481 2562778DMO Homeo 0481 2583516D M O I S M 0481 2568118Dr. DA 0481 2578802Deputy Collector (Election) 0481 2560085Deputy CollectoR (LA) 0481 2562650Deputy Collector (LR) 0481 2563425Deputy Collector 0481 2563425(Revenue Recovery)District Animal Husbandry Office 0481 2563726District Collector 0481 2562001District Co-operative bank 0481 2563603District Employment Office 0481 2560413


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District Food Inspector, 0481 2421077ChanganacherryDistrict Forest office 0481 2562276District Ground water office 0481 2572436District Informatics Officer. NIC 0481 2565485District Information Officer/Centre 0481 2562558District Insurance Office 0481 2572176District Insurance Office 0481 2572176district Labour Office 0481 2564365District Legal Services Authority 0481 2563496District Literacy Mission 0481 2302055District Lottery Office 0481 2560756District PSC Office 0481 2578278District Planning Officer 0481 2561638District Registrar 0481 2563822District SC Development 0481 2562503District Sainik Welfare Office 0481 2570287District Sanitaion Mission (Nirmal) 0481 2301366District Sericulture Office 0481 2566805District Social Welfare Office 0481 2569980District Soil Conservation Office 0481 2568519District Sports Council 0481 2563825District Stationery Office 0481 2342175District Statistical Office 0481 2562073district Supply Office 0481 2560371district Town Planner 0481 2564160District Treasury Office 0481 2562281District Veterinary Centre 0481 2564623Government Press, Vazhoor 0481 2457040R.T.O., Kottayam 0481 2560429RDO Pala 0482 2212212DISTRICT OFFICESAnert, Kaduthuruthy 0482 9283052Anert, Kanjirappally 0482 2247687Assistant Conservator, 0481 2560412Social ForestryAssistant Deve. Commissioner0481 2560645(General)

Audio Visual & Reprographic Centre0481 2362433BSNL Directory Enquiry 0481 2565334Backward Classes Development 0481 2303925CorporationCentral Excise Assistant Collector 0481 2566847Civil Supplies Corporation 0481 2567216Reg. ManagerCollegiate Education Deputy Director0481 2563317Common Facility Service Centre, 0481 2420311ChnryConservator of Forests 0481 2563448D.C. Books 0481 2563114D.I.E.T, Velloor 0481 2506013D.S.P. 0481 2564700Dairy Development Deputy Director0481 2562768Director of School of Letters, 0481 2731041M.G. universityDistrict Panchayat President 0481 2565966Education Deputy Director 0481 2583095Election Deputy Collector 0481 2560085Election Deputy Collector 0481 2560085Executive Engineer Housing Board 0481 2570410Ececutive Engineer, Buildings 0481 2563783Executive Engineer, Local Works 0481 2564213Executive Engineer, M.I. 0481 2562662Executive Engineer, R&B 0481 2563212F.C.I. District Manager Chingavanam0481 2430660Factories & Boilers Inspector 0481 2562131Field Publicity Office 0481 2578699Government College, nattakom 0481 2563116Government polytechnic, Nattakom 0481 2561884I.T.D.P. kanjirappally 0481 2802751Income Tax Deputy Commissioner 0481 2567841Indian Rubber Research Institute 0481 2353311Jawahar BalaBhavan 0481 2583004Joint Register Co-operative Societies 0481 2562069K.S.E.B. Deputy Chief Engineer (Pallom)0481 2562613


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Trains from Ernakulam Towards North (Trichur, Calicut, Palghat Side)Includes departures from Ernakulam South (Junction) and North (Town) Stations

Time From Station Service Days Train No: Train Name To00.25 Town (North) Sunday 12698 Chennai Weekly Chennai01.25 Town (North) Daily 16347 Mangalore Express Mangalore03.00 Town (North) Daily 16343 Amritha Express Palakkad03.50 Jn. (South) Daily 16127 Guruvayoor Express Guruvayur03.59 Town (North) Daily 16127 Guruvayoor Express Guruvayur05.15 Jn. (South) Tue, Fri 12519 Pune SF Express Pune06.00 Jn. (South) Daily 56370 Guruvayoor Passenger Guruvayoor06.07 Town (North) Daily 56370 Guruvayoor Passenger Guruvayoor06.50 Jn. (South) Daily 16305 Kannur InterCity Cannanore07.15 Jn. (South) Daily 13352 Dhanbad Express Dhanbad07.30 Jn. (South) Daily 56606 Shoranur Passenger Shornur07.37 Town (North) Daily 56606 Shoranur Passenger Shornur08.10 Jn. (South) Daily 16606 Ernad Express Mangalore08.30 Jn. (South) Saturday 16332 Mumbai Weekly Mumbai CST08.30 Jn. (South) Sunday 12788 Bilaspur Express Bilaspur09.10 Jn. (South) Daily 12678 Bangalore Intercity Bangalore09.20 Jn. (South) Daily 12076 Janashatabdi Express Calicut09.55 Jn. (South) Daily 16302 Venad Express Shoranur10.04 Town (North) Daily 16302 Venad Express Shornur10.10 Jn. (South) Saturday 16326 Ahalyanagari Express Indore10.10 Jn. (South) Friday 12522 Raptisagar Express Barauni10.10 Jn. (South) Sun, Tue, Wed 12512 Raptisagar Express Gorakhpur10.15 Town (North) Mon, Thu 16328 Korba Express Korba10.45 Jn. (South) Daily 12617 Mangala Express Delhi H.Nizamuddin11.10 Town (North) Daily 16650 Parasuram Express Mangalore11.50 Town (North) Daily 17229 Sabari Express Hyderabad12.50 Jn. (South) Saturday 12217 Sampark Kranti Express12.50 Jn. (South) Wednesday 12483 Amritsar Express Amritsar12.50 Jn. (South) Mon, Tue 12997 Hapa Express Hapa12.55 Town (North) Sun, Thu 12202 Mumbai Garib Rath Mumbai LTT12.55 Town (North) Friday 12287 Dehradun Express Dehradun13.25 Town (North) Daily 16382 Jayanti Express Mumbai CST14.00 Jn. (South) Daily 16346 Netravati Express Mumbai LTT14.35 Jn. (South) Monday 10216 Madgaon Express Madgaon15.45 Jn. (South) Daily 12625 Kerala Express New Delhi16.20 Jn. (South) Thu, Sat 16313 Executive Express Kannur16.20 Jn. (South) Sun, Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri 16307 Executive Express


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16.27 Town (North) Thu, Sat 16313 Executive Express Kannur16.27 Town (North) Sun, Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri 16307 Executive Express16.40 Jn. (South) Mon, Tue 16309 Patna Express Patna17.00 Jn. (South) Sunday 22607 Bangalore Weekly Banglore17.00 Jn. (South) Mon, Wed 12683 Bangalore SF Banglore17.15 Town (North) Thursday 12778 Hubli Superfast Hubli17.15 Town (North) Sunday 12515 Guwahati Express Guwahati17.20 Jn. (South) Daily 16042 Chennai Express Chennai17.27 Town (North) Daily 16042 Chennai Express Chennai17.30 Jn. (South) Daily 56608 Shornur Passenger Shoranur17.37 Town (North) Daily 56608 Shoranur Passenger Shornur17.55 Town (North) Daily 16525 Island Express Bangalore18.13 Town (North) Sun, Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri 1208218.55 Jn. (South Tuesday 12643 Swarna Jayanthi Nizamuddin18.55 Jn. (South) Saturday 12645 Millennium Express Nizamuddin19.15 Town (North) Daily 12624 Chennai Mail Chennai19.50 Jn. (South) Sunday 12977 Marusagar Express Ajmer19.50 Jn. (South) Wed, Fri 16338 Dwarakapuri Express Okha20.00 Town (North) Saturday 16312 Bikaner Express Bikaner20.00 Town (North) Monday 16334 Veraval Express Veraval20.00 Town (North) Tuesday 16336 Gandhidham Express Gandhidham20.15 Jn. (South) Daily 56376 Guruvayur Passenger Guruvayoor20.22 Town (North) Daily 56376 Guruvayur Passenger Guruvayor20.35 Jn. (South) Tue, Thu, Sat 16316 Bangalore Express20.35 Jn. (South) Wednesday 16322 Bangalore weekly20.40 Town (North) Friday 16317 Himsagar Express Jammu Tawi20.40 Town (North) Sunday 12659 Gurudev Express Kolkata21.05 Jn. (South) Tuesday 12507 Guwahati Super Fast Guwahati21.05 Jn. (South) Thu, Sat 16323 Shalimar Express Kolkata21.15 Town (North) Mon, Wed, Fri 12258 Yesvantpur Garib Rath21.35 Jn. (South) Daily 16342 Guruvayoor InterCity Guruvayur21.45 Town (North) Daily 12696 Chennai Superfast Chennai22.05 Jn. (South) Daily 16866 Tea Garden express Nagore22.12 Town (North) Daily 16866 Tea Garden Express Nagore22.25 Jn. (South) Tue, Thu, Fri 12431 Rajdhani Express22.45 Jn. (South) Saturday 16359 Patna Weekly Patna23.30 Jn. (South) Monday 11098 Poorna Express Pune23.35 Jn. (South) Daily 16604 Maveli Express Mangalore23.50 Town (North) Daily 16629 Malabar Express Mangalore


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Palakkad Train StationTrain name (no.) Arrives Departs Stop timeKochuveli Express (06313) 02:05 02:10 5 minNzb Qln Special (07601) 15:55 16:00 5 minBkn Cbe Ac S F (22475) 02:50 02:55 5 minQln Vskp Express (08570) 03:35 03:40 5 minNzb Qln Special (07613) 15:40 15:45 5 minQln Bza Express (07214) 12:35 12:40 5 minMadgaon Express (06003) 05:30 05:35 5 minNs Qln Special (07217) 17:15 17:20 5 minHyb Qln Special (07115) 20:08 20:10 2 minKrmr Qln Special (07113) 20:30 20:35 5 minAdb Qln Special (07509) 20:30 20:35 5 minMs Mangalore Express (16859) 13:10 13:20 10 minErnakulam Superfast Express (12684) 02:45 02:50 5 minNarsapur Express (07218) 08:45 08:50 5 minChennai Express (06018) 18:05 18:10 5 minSkzr Qln Special (07111) 20:30 20:35 5 minAhilyanagari Express (22645) 08:57 09:00 3 minKochuveli Express (06339) 21:40 21:45 5 minWest Coast Express (22638) 05:05 05:10 5 minMaq Kcg Express (07605) 02:45 02:50 5 minBangalore Express (06347) 03:25 03:30 5 minChennai Express (06316) 01:50 01:55 5 minChennai Express (06340) 00:20 00:25 5 minErnakulum Express (06345) 00:02 00:05 3 minBza Qln Special (07213) 20:35 20:40 5 minTvc Kyq Premium (00642) 18:43 18:45 2 minVskp Snsi Special (08567) 21:50 21:52 2 minVlnk Vsg Express (07324) 07:55 08:00 5 minGhy Kcvl Special (06335) 14:05 14:10 5 minSnsi Vskp Special (08568) 16:05 16:25 20 minBangalore Superfast Express (12683) 19:40 19:45 5 minBza Qln Special (07219) 16:40 16:45 5 minMas Kcvl Express (06337) 00:02 00:05 3 minKorba Express (22648) 14:00 14:05 5 minVijayawada Express (07220) 08:45 08:50 5 minPnbe Ers Express (22644) 13:05 13:10 5 minSantragachi Express (02852) 12:15 12:20 5 minTvc Mas Premium (00602) 20:35 20:37 2 min


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Maq Chennai Express (16860) 14:25 14:30 5 minChennai Express (06338) 00:20 00:25 5 minErs Src Premium (02854) 11:25 11:27 2 minKyq Tvc Premium (00641) 22:40 22:42 2 minHyb Qln Special (07166) 15:35 15:40 5 minDhn Alappuzha E (13351) 12:10 12:15 5 minMangaloreexp (16565) 10:20 10:25 5 minNagercoil Express (06309) 21:35 21:40 5 minChennai Express (06016) 23:15 23:20 5 minChennai Express (06060) 18:20 18:25 5 minAk Qln Special (07507) 20:30 20:40 10 minErnakulam Superfast Express (22608) 02:45 02:50 5 minYpr Ers Express (06543) 08:35 08:40 5 minChennai Mail (12624) 22:20 22:25 5 minSolapur Express (06553) 03:25 03:30 5 minGurudev Express (12659) 23:50 23:55 5 minHyderabad Express (07106) 06:30 06:35 5 minKochuveli Express (06315) 00:02 00:05 3 minKochuveli Express (06011) 05:30 05:35 5 minMao Mas Special (06002) 02:48 02:50 2 minMangalore Express (06015) 00:40 00:45 5 minGhy Tvc Express (12508) 14:35 14:40 5 minNavyug Express (16687) 23:05 23:10 5 minCct Qln Special (07211) 18:05 18:10 5 minGuwahati Express (12507) 23:50 23:55 5 minNizamuddin Express (12643) 21:40 21:45 5 minErs Millenum Express (12646) 02:30 02:35 5 minGuwahati Express (06336) 19:30 19:35 5 minTvc Bnc Premium (02660) 20:08 20:10 2 minChennai Express (06346) 21:45 21:50 5 minChennai Express (06004) 21:10 21:15 5 minVsg Vlnk Express (07323) 02:25 02:30 5 minKrba Tvc Express (22647) 08:57 09:00 3 minChennai Express (22640) 20:40 20:45 5 minKcg Maq Express (17606) 03:25 03:30 5 minVsg Vlnk Express (07325) 21:45 21:50 5 minTrivandram Express (16331) 20:05 20:10 5 minGuwahati Express (12515) 20:00 20:05 5 minMaq Vivek Express (22851) 02:32 02:35 3 minTvc Mas Premium (00601) 20:35 20:37 2 min


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Bsp Ten Express (22619) 18:25 18:30 5 minAhilyanagari Express (22646) 14:00 14:05 5 minMumbai Express (16332) 12:10 12:15 5 minPnbe Ers Express (16360) 20:05 20:10 5 minHyb Qln Special (07109) 16:35 16:40 5 minBnc Tvc Premium (02659) 02:14 02:16 2 minErs Bilaspur Express (22816) 12:10 12:15 5 minYesvantpur Express (16528) 22:00 22:05 5 minSabari Express (17230) 09:45 09:50 5 minAmritha Express (16343) 07:15 07:35 20 minBangalore Express (16525) 21:15 21:20 5 minRaptisagar Express (12512) 14:00 14:05 5 minPatna Express (22643) 20:00 20:05 5 minHyderabad Express (07110) 08:35 08:50 15 minWest Coast Express (22637) 20:47 20:50 3 minAlleppey Express (22639) 05:15 05:20 5 minTata Allp Express (18189) 12:10 12:15 5 minTrivandrum Express (12697) 23:25 23:30 5 minKochuveli Express (12777) 23:25 23:30 5 minTrivandrum Mail (12623) 04:00 04:05 5 minYesvantpur Express (16566) 02:30 02:35 5 minQln Vskp Express (18568) 03:25 03:30 5 minMaq Kcg Express (17605) 02:30 02:35 5 minTen Dr Express (22630) 16:10 16:15 5 minHimsagar Express (16317) 23:52 23:55 3 minRapti Sagar Express (12521) 08:57 09:00 3 minAmritha Express (16344) 22:00 22:10 10 minKacheguda Express (07116) 03:40 03:45 5 minGhy Tvc Express (12516) 14:35 14:40 5 minSabari Express (17229) 15:15 15:20 5 minYpr Cannanore E (16527) 04:50 05:00 10 minShm Tvc Superfast Express (22642) 13:05 13:10 5 minNavyug Express (16688) 16:12 16:15 3 minKochuveli Gr (12257) 05:30 05:35 5 minHubli Express (12778) 19:40 19:45 5 minNizamuddin Express (12645) 21:40 21:45 5 minPuducherry Express (16856) 23:05 23:10 5 minSuper Ac Express (22207) 00:10 00:15 5 minBangalore Superfast Express (22607) 19:40 19:45 5 minBangalore Express (16316) 23:25 23:30 5 minKochuveli Express (16315) 01:30 01:35 5 min


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Himsagar Express (16318) 11:05 11:10 5 minPuducherry Express (16858) 23:05 23:10 5 minDhanbad Express (13352) 10:35 10:40 5 minMangalore Express (16855) 02:30 02:35 5 minKerala Express (12626) 06:20 06:25 5 minVskp Qln Express (18567) 07:40 07:45 5 minRapti Sagar Express (12511) 08:57 09:00 3 minRaptisagar Express (12522) 14:00 14:05 5 minMangalore Mail (12601) 04:40 04:45 5 minChennai Mail (12602) 20:20 20:25 5 minKerala Express (12625) 18:40 18:45 5 minSwarna Jayanti (12644) 02:20 02:35 15 minTen Bilaspur Express (22620) 12:10 12:15 5 minMangalore Express (12685) 01:45 01:50 5 minChennai Express (12686) 22:40 22:45 5 minTvc Chennai Express (12696) 00:40 00:45 5 minErnakulam Express (12677) 14:18 14:20 2 minKanyakumari Express (16381) 01:10 01:15 5 minCape Mumbai Express (16382) 16:45 16:50 5 minTrivandrum Express (12695) 00:27 00:30 3 minKochuveli Acex (16561) 23:52 23:55 3 minKcvl Ypr Ac Express (16562) 19:40 19:45 5 minDadar Ten Express (22629) 21:00 21:05 5 minGurudev Express (12660) 12:35 12:40 5 minYesvantpur Express (12258) 00:10 00:15 5 minBangalore Express (12678) 11:40 11:42 2 minErs Patna Express (16359) 02:00 02:05 5 minShalimar Express (22641) 23:50 23:55 5 minIntercity Express (22609) 17:35 17:40 5 minIntercity Express (22610) 07:25 07:30 5 minVivek Express (15906) 23:52 23:55 3 minDbrg Vivek Express (15905) 08:10 08:15 5 minSrc Vivek Express (22852) 05:25 05:30 5 minBikaner Ac Express (22476) 16:15 16:20 5 minSuper Ac Express (22208) 03:10 03:15 5 minErnakulam Express (16187) 03:05 03:10 5 minErs Karaikalexp (16188) 01:40 01:45 5 minMangalore Express (16857) 03:25 03:30 5 minKanyakumari Express (16526) 04:25 04:35 10 minBsp Ers S F Express (22815) 18:25 18:30 5 minTvc Chennai Express (12698) 03:25 03:30 5 min


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IMPORTANT ADDRESS AND PHONE NUMBERS

Kerala Sate Human Rights CommissionMP Appan Road, vazhatakad,Thiruvanathapuram - 695014Ph : 0471 - 2337263, 2331221

Kerala Women's CommissionTC No. : 12/38/92, Near Lourds ehurehPMG Road, Pattom P.O.Thiruvanathapuram - 4Ph : 0471 2307589, 2300509

Kerala Littiraey MissionGandariyamman Kovil Road, PuthanchandaP.O.Thiruvanthapuram - 695001Ph : 0471 2322253, 2322254Kerala High CourtErnakulamPh : 0484 2393901 - 06 (0) 2391720 (F)

Railway Divisional OfficerThyeadu, Thiruvanthapuram - 14Ph : 0471 2325828 (0)

Railway Divisional Officerolavakode, palakkadPh : 0491 255965

Chief Post Master GeneralKerala Circle Thiruvanathapuram - 33Ph : 0471 - 2308060

Regional Cancer CentreMedical College P.O.,Thiruvanathapuram - 11Ph : 0471 2442541

Kerala LokayukthaNiyamasabha complex, Vikas Bhavan,Thiruvanathapuram - 33Ph : 0471 2300494

UPA LokayakthaPh : 0471 - 2300497, 2300496

OmbudssmanSaphallyam complex, 3rd Floorm Trida Building,Palayam, Thiruvanathapuram - 34Ph : 0471 2330543Medical CollegeThiruvanathapuramPh : 0471 - 2443095, 2528386

TD Medical CollegeVandanam, Alappuzha - 688005Ph : 0477 - 2282611Medical College, Kottayam - 08Ph : 0481 2597284

Vigilance And Anti Corruption BureauDirector : 0471 2303220I.G.P. : 0471 2306706D.G.P. : 0471 2302605A.D.G.P. : 0471 2300786S.P. (special) : 0471 2346686

Investigation UnitS.P. : 0471 2304118Vigilance Tribunal : 0471 2462359

Vigilance And Anti Corruption OfficeThiruvanadapuram : 0471 2305393Kollam : 0474 2795092Allapuzha : 0477 2251997Pathanamthitta : 0469 2223270Kottayam : 0481 2585144Idukki : 0486 2222727Ernakulam : 0484 2402044Thrissur : 0487 2334200Malappuram : 0483 2734910Palakkad : 0491 2502510Kozhikode : 0495 2382034Wayanad : 0493 2647310Kannur : 0497 2707778

National Consumer Dispute Redressal Commis-sion5th Floor, A wing, Janpatr Bhavan, New Delhi -110001Ph : 011 - 3317690


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Kerala State Consumer DisputeCommissionThiruvanadapuram - 699003Ph : 0471 2329451

Medical College, ThrissurPh : 0487 2201355Medical College, KozhikodePh : 0495 2356531Kerala UniversityThiruvanadapuram - 695044

Vice ChancellorPh : 0471 2306634

Air India VellayambalamPh : 0471 2310310Reservation OfficePh : 0471 2316870Airport Manager, ThiruvanathapuramInternational Ph : 0471 2501269Domestic Ph : 0471 2500419Airport Enquiry Ph : 0471 2501269Domestic Ph : 2501537

KochiAirline House, DH Road,Kochi InternationalPh : 0484 2351260Domestic Ph : 0484 2371141Airport Enquiry KochiInternational Ph : 0484 2610050Domestic Ph : 0484 2610041

KozhikodeAirine House, Bank Road, KozhikodeReservation InternationalPh : 0495 2766669Domestic Ph : 0495 2771974

Airport EnquiryInternational Ph : 0483 2715005, 2715646Domestic Ph : 0483 2710100

Chief Minister's Public GrievancePh : 0471 2338430Redressal Cell Ph : 0471 2518940Legislaative Hotel Estate OfficerPh : 0471 2512206

Hi Tech Crime Enquiry Ph : 0471 2722768Information Officer Sutharya KeralamPh : 0471 2518867Kerala Sports Council Ph : 0471 2333729Legal Service Society Ph : 0471 2328249Kerala State Library CouncilPh : 0471 2325925Pollution Control Board Ph : 0471 2318152Kerala Water Authority ChairmanPh : 0471 2327994Legislative Hotel Ph : 0471 2512299Passport Office ThriuvandapuramPh : 0471 2461001Railway Police Help line Ph : 9846200100S.A.T. Hospital ThiruvandapuramPh : 0471 2443216PRD Ph : 0471 2518471Telecom Costomer Service CenterPh : 0471 2544040

Friends Janasevana KendramThiruvanadapuram Ph : 0471 2338652Kollam Ph : 0474 2767451Pathanamthitta Ph : 0469 2228491Kottayam Ph : 0481 2567741Allapuzha Ph : 0477 2238541Palakkad Ph : 0486 2232532Thrissur Ph : 0487 2321606Palakkad Ph : 0491 2540803Malappuram Ph : 0483 2732929Wayanad Ph : 04936 202580Kozhikode Ph : 0495 2721233Kannur Ph : 0497 2709100Central Government Offices

Akashavani ThiruvanadapuramPh : 0471 2324406Dooradharshan ThiruvandapuramPh : 0471 2730128International Airport NedumbasseryPh : 0484 2610050Kozhikode Airport Ph : 0483 2710100


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DISTRICT AT A GLANCE THIRUVANATHAPURAMDistrict : Thiruvanathapuram (1949 July 01)Square : 2.197 Square kilometersPopulation : 33.07.284Density : 1,509Female : 17.23.084Male : 15.84.200Male & Female ratio : 1088 female / 1000 maleTaluks : Thiruvanathapuram, NeyyattinkaraCo-operation : Thiruvanathapuramconstituency : 14Municipality : 4Blockpanjath : 11Gramapanjath : 73Village : 116Important Roads : NH - 47, MC RoadCollectorate : 0471 2462361Police Suprend : 0471 2315803

KOLLAMDistrict : Kollam (1949 July 01)Square : 2,491 Square kilometersPopulation : 26.29.703Density : 1.056Female : 13.84.888Male : 12.44.815Male & Female ratio : 1113 female / 1000 maleTaluks : Karunagappally, Kunnathur, Pathanapuram, Kottarakara,KollamCo-operation : Kollamconstituency : 11Municipality : 2Blockpanjath : 11Gramapanjath : 70Village : 104Important Roads : NH - 47, NH - 208, MC RoadCollectorate : 0474 2793473Police Suprend : 0474 2764422

PATHANAMTHITTADistrict : Pathanamthitta (1982 November 1)Square : 2,642 Square kilometersPopulation : 11.95,537Density : 453Female : 6,33,917Male : 5,61,620Male & Female ratio : 1129 female / 1000 maleTaluks : Thiruvalla, Mallappally, Ranni, kozhencherry, Adoor


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Municipality : 3Blockpanjath : 8Gramapanjath : 54Village : 68Important Roads : MC Road, Thiruvalla-kumbazha RoadCollectorate : 0468 2222515Police Suprend : 0468 2222636ALAPPUZHADistrict : Alappuzha (1957 August 17)Square : 1,414 Square kilometersPopulation : 21,21,943Density : 1,501Female : 11,11,691Male : 10,10,252Male & Female ratio : 1100 female / 1000 maleTaluks : Cherthala, Ambalapuzha, kuttanad, karthikappally,chengannur, MavelikkaraMunicipality : 5Blockpanjath : 12Gramapanjath : 73Village : 91Important Roads : NH-47, AC Road, KP RoadCollectorate : 0477 2251675Police Suprend : 0477 2251326

KOTTAYAMDistrict : Kottayam (1949 July 01)Square : 2,208 Square kilometersPopulation : 19,79,384Density : 896Female : 10,09,244Male : 9,70,140Male & Female ratio : 1040 female / 1000 maleTaluks : Meenachil, Vaikom, Kottayam, Changanacherry, Kanjirappally,Municipality : 4Blockpanjath : 11Gramapanjath : 73Village : 95Important Roads : K.K. Road, MC RoadCollectorate : 0481 2562201Police Suprend : 0481 2564700

IDUKKIDistrict : Idukki (1972 January 28)Square : 4,358 Square kilometersPopulation : 11,07, 453Density : 254Female : 5,55,509Male : 5,51,944Male & Female ratio : 1006 female / 1000 maleTaluks : Devikulam, Udumbanchola, Thodupuzha, Peerumedu


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Municipality : 1Blockpanjath : 8Gramapanjath : 53Village : 64Important Roads : NH-49, Munnar-Utti, Munnar- CoimbatoreCollectorate : 0486 2233101Police Suprend : 0486 2233006

ERNAKULAMDistrict : Ernakulam (1958 April 01)Square : 3,608 Square kilometersPopulation : 32,79,860Density : 1069Female : 16,62,258Male : 16,17,602Male & Female ratio : 1028 female / 1000 maleTaluks : Kunnathunadu, Aluva, Paravoor, Kochi, Kanayannur,Muvattupuzha, kothamangalamMunicipality : 11Blockpanjath : 14Gramapanjath : 84Village : 117Important Roads : NH-17, NH-49, NH-47, MC RoadCollectorate : 0484 2422292Police Suprend : 0484 2623550

THRISSURDistrict : Thrissur (1949 July 01)Square : 3,032 Square kilometersPopulation : 31,10,322Density : 1026Female : 16,35,662Male : 14,74,665Male & Female ratio : 1109 female / 1000 maleTaluks : Thalappilly, Chavakkad, Thrissur, Kodungallur, MukthapuramMunicipality : 6Blockpanjath : 16Gramapanjath : 88Village : 254Important Roads : NH-17, NH-47,Collectorate : 0487 2360130Police Suprend : 0487 2361000

PALAKKADDistrict : Palakkad (1957 January 01)Square : 4,480 Square kilometersPopulation : 28,10,892Density : 627Female : 14,50,825Male : 13,60,067Male & Female ratio : 1067 female / 1000 maleTaluks : Ottapalam, Mannarkkad, Chittoor, Alathur


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Municipality : 4Blockpanjath : 13Gramapanjath : 91Village : 158Important Roads : NH-17, NH-213Collectorate : 0491 2505309Police Suprend : 0491 2504011

MALAPPURAMDistrict : Malappuram (1969 June 16)Square : 3,550 Square kilometersPopulation : 41,10,956Density : 1158Female : 21,49,942Male : 19,61,014Male & Female ratio : 1096 female / 1000 maleTaluks : Eranad, Nilambur, Perinthalmanna, Tirur, Thiroorangadi,PonnaniMunicipality : 7Blockpanjath : 15Gramapanjath : 100Village : 135Important Roads : NH-17, NH - 213Collectorate : 0483 2734922Police Suprend : 0483 2734938

KOZHIKODEDistrict : Kozhikode (1957 January 01)Square : 2,344 Square kilometersPopulation : 30,89,543Density : 13,18Female : 16,16,515Male : 14,73,028Male & Female ratio : 1097 female / 1000 maleTaluks : Vadakara, Koyilandy, KozhikodeMunicipality : 2Blockpanjath : 12Gramapanjath : 75Village : 117Important Roads : NH-17, NH - 212, NH - 213Collectorate : 0495 2370518Police Suprend : 0495 2734983

WAYANADDistrict : Wayanad (1980 November 01)Square : 2,131 Square kilometersPopulation : 8,16,558Density : 383Female : 4,15,244Male : 4,01,314


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Male & Female ratio : 1035 female / 1000 maleTaluks : Mananthavady, Sulthan bathery, VythiriMunicipality : 1Blockpanjath : 4Gramapanjath : 25Village : 49Important Roads : NH - 212Collectorate : 04936 202251Police Suprend : 04936 202525

KANNURDistrict : Kannur (1957 January 01)Square : 2,996 Square kilometersPopulation : 25,25,637Density : 852Female : 13,41,625Male : 11,84,012Male & Female ratio : 1133 female / 1000 maleTaluks : Taliparamba, Kannur, ThalasseryMunicipality : 6Blockpanjath : 11Gramapanjath : 81Village : 129Important Roads : NH-17Collectorate : 0497 2700243Police Suprend : 0497 2763330

KASARAGODDistrict : Kasaragod (1984 May 24)Square : 1,992 Square kilometersPopulation : 13,02,600Density : 654Female : 6,75,953Male : 6,26,617Male & Female ratio : 1079 female / 1000 maleTaluks : Kasaragod, HosdurgMunicipality : 3Blockpanjath : 6Gramapanjath : 38Village : 75Important Roads : NH-17Collectorate : 04994 255010Police Suprend : 04994 230401

Kerala Sate Human Rights CommissionMP Appan Road, vazhatakad, Thiruvanathapuram - 695014Ph : 0471 - 2337263, 2331221


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Kerala Women's CommissionTC No. : 12/38/92, Near Lourds ehurehPMG Road, Pattom P.O.Thiruvanathapuram - 4Ph : 0471 2307589, 2300509

Kerala Littiraey MissionGandariyamman Kovil Road, Puthanchanda P.O.Thiruvanthapuram - 695001Ph : 0471 2322253, 2322254Kerala High CourtErnakulamPh : 0484 2393901 - 06 (0) 2391720 (F)

Railway Divisional OfficerThyeadu, Thiruvanthapuram - 14Ph : 0471 2325828 (0)

Railway Divisional Officerolavakode, palakkadPh : 0491 255965

Chief Post Master GeneralKerala Circle Thiruvanathapuram - 33Ph : 0471 - 2308060

Regional Cancer CentreMedical College P.O.,Thiruvanathapuram - 11Ph : 0471 2442541

Kerala LokayukthaNiyamasabha complex, Vikas Bhavan, Thiruvanathapuram - 33Ph : 0471 2300494

UPA LokayakthaPh : 0471 - 2300497, 2300496

OmbudssmanSaphallyam complex, 3rd Floorm Trida Building, Palayam, Thiruvanathapuram - 34Ph : 0471 2330543Medical CollegeThiruvanathapuramPh : 0471 - 2443095, 2528386

TD Medical CollegeVandanam, Alappuzha - 688005Ph : 0477 - 2282611Medical College, Kottayam - 08Ph : 0481 2597284


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Vigilance And Anti Corruption BureauDirector : 0471 2303220I.G.P. : 0471 2306706D.G.P. : 0471 2302605A.D.G.P. : 0471 2300786S.P. (special) : 0471 2346686

Investigation UnitS.P. : 0471 2304118Vigilance Tribunal : 0471 2462359

Vigilance And Anti Corruption OfficeThiruvanadapuram : 0471 2305393Kollam : 0474 2795092Allapuzha : 0477 2251997Pathanamthitta : 0469 2223270Kottayam : 0481 2585144Idukki : 0486 2222727Ernakulam : 0484 2402044Thrissur : 0487 2334200Malappuram : 0483 2734910Palakkad : 0491 2502510Kozhikode : 0495 2382034Wayanad : 0493 2647310Kannur : 0497 2707778

National Consumer Dispute Redressal Commission5th Floor, A wing, Janpatr Bhavan, New Delhi - 110001Ph : 011 - 3317690

Kerala State Consumer DisputeCommissionThiruvanadapuram - 699003Ph : 0471 2329451

Medical College, ThrissurPh : 0487 2201355Medical College, KozhikodePh : 0495 2356531Kerala UniversityThiruvanadapuram - 695044

Vice ChancellorPh : 0471 2306634

Air India VellayambalamPh : 0471 2310310Reservation OfficePh : 0471 2316870


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Airport Manager, ThiruvanathapuramInternational Ph : 0471 2501269Domestic Ph : 0471 2500419Airport Enquiry Ph : 0471 2501269Domestic Ph : 2501537

KochiAirline House, DH Road,Kochi InternationalPh : 0484 2351260Domestic Ph : 0484 2371141Airport Enquiry KochiInternational Ph : 0484 2610050Domestic Ph : 0484 2610041

KozhikodeAirine House, Bank Road, KozhikodeReservation InternationalPh : 0495 2766669Domestic Ph : 0495 2771974

Airport EnquiryInternational Ph : 0483 2715005, 2715646Domestic Ph : 0483 2710100

Chief Minister's Public GrievancePh : 0471 2338430Redressal Cell Ph : 0471 2518940Legislaative Hotel Estate OfficerPh : 0471 2512206

Hi Tech Crime Enquiry Ph : 0471 2722768Information Officer Sutharya KeralamPh : 0471 2518867

Kerala Sports Council Ph : 0471 2333729Legal Service Society Ph : 0471 2328249Kerala State Library CouncilPh : 0471 2325925

Pollution Control Board Ph : 0471 2318152Kerala Water Authority ChairmanPh : 0471 2327994

Legislative Hotel Ph : 0471 2512299Passport Office ThriuvandapuramPh : 0471 2461001

Railway Police Help line Ph : 9846200100S.A.T. Hospital ThiruvandapuramPh : 0471 2443216

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keralatourismenterprises.inkeralatourismenterprises.in/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/...Thiruvallam (7 km): This 2000 year old temple on the bank of river Karamana, is the only one in