ambiance of Kamakhya Devi Temple is an annual festival which is celebrated during the call of monsoon season. It is a 4 days long festival and it is closely knitted with the Kamkhya Devi Puja who is believed to be a sole orgy of universal power.
The festival is celebrated with great ritual aspects and the access to it is observed by performing Tantrik means which is an exclusive feature of the celebration.
According to local people this festival celebrates the fertility of Mother Earth and during such occasion it is believed that Mother goes through the period of menstruation which automatically nurtures the power of menses.
Historical Facts
According to historical accounts or rather say in context of mythology people are of believed that during the time of 4 day celebration Mother Earth goes through the phase of annual menstruation. It is very evident within 3 days the gates of temple are closed to evade impure elements and on 4th day Tantric cult gathers around the temple to celebrate the feast.
When It Is Celebrated
As mentioned above it is an annual festival that comes into picture during the Assamese month of Ahaar and one must understand that it marks the month of monsoon which falls during the month of June.
How It Is Celebrated
As season of monsoon marks it presence in the month of June which according to tantric cult is the month when Mother Earth goes into period of annual menstruation. During three days doors and every spaces of temple are closed and farmers deny ploughing their field to observe the cycle of menstruation. It is believed that water of the pond turns red and in the fourth day devotes dips the cotton into ponds which is said to bring auspicious and prosperity in family.
On the fourth day farmers gathers in their field to plough and seed their land and Mother Earth is dip into water for holy bath and after that doors of the temple are opened where in you can look to offer your prayer and tribute to Mother Earth. During this festival rural craft are put into show and Prasad which is made out of small bits of cloth is distributed amongst devotee.
Main Activities
During the time of festival or say after an elapse of three days Mother Earth is purified by performing holy rituals and then they commemorate the deeds of tantric by inviting sadus and agori from all across the nation. Beside that festival is a grant occasion where rural art is encouraged and to see the same traveler comes from all across the world because it not only reflects the cultural aspect of the people but it infuse the importance of religious festivals.
Where All It Is Celebrated
Traveler must understand that Kamakhya Devi Temple is amongst the 51 Shakti Peethas of Hindu mythology and the festival is officially celebrated within the holy ambience of Kamakhya Devi Temple which is considered as amongst the most venerated temples of Guwahati.
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is a heaven for nature explorers and is one of the most prominent Wildlife Reservoir of Madhya Pradesh, in India. It was declared as National Park in the year 1983 which covers an area of 445.21 hectares. It is a perfect gateway for nature exploration and many more available nature activities. The perfect ambiance of the surroundings and the lush greenery of the park captivate huge numbers of both domestic and foreign tourists all through the weekend. The cool refreshing air crisscrosses you as soon as you reach the park which touches the depth of your heart in no time. The Park plays a vital role in the state’s tourism.
Though it is affirmed as a National Park, the Park is stated as the modern Zoological Park. A visit to the park is a unique opportunity for you to get a closer look to the rich flora and faunas as well as the animals in their natural habitat. The most soothing facts in here are the boundless beauty, verdant greenery, rich natural diversity, nature safari, trekking and more. Such nature belongings fascinates you till the end of your return and make anyone come visit again and again.
Attractions
Flora and Fauna: Van Vihar National Park forest is of tropical moist deciduous type that includes dry Sal bearing forests and moist Sal bearing forests. The park offers you a rich variety of flora like Babul, Doodhi, Tendu, Amaltas, Bel, Lendia, Saja, Amla, Reunjha and many more. When it comes to fauna, the park acts as home to various species of fauna that include White Tiger, Albino Sloth Bear, Nilgai, Black Buck, Lion, Common Langur, Wild boar, Wild dogs and many more. Crocodile, python, Turtle, star tortoise, Ghariyal, mugger are other major attractions. There are more than twice of hundred bird species, butterflies and insects too.
Tourist activities
Tourist visiting the Park is backed up by numerous activities that are truly amazing and worth experiencing. Enjoy trekking in the park exploring the real colors of the nature. Elephant safari provided in here is a superb feeling and you can even enjoy a boat cruise on Upper Lake. Nature exploration and nature experiences are best done in here.
Time to visit
The best suited time for your visit is from the beginning month of July till the end of September. The weather remains pleasant and is favored for all type tourist activity in the Park.
Visiting hours and fee structure
Van Vihar national Park remains open all through the weekend except Tuesday and the timings are from 07.00 am to 11.00 am and from 03.00 pm to 05.00 pm. Pet animals are strictly prohibited inside the Park. Tourists from abroad has to pay Rs 200/- per head as an entry charge and to Indians it is Rs 15/- . An extra charge for other equipment like camera is charged Rs 40 and for videos it is Rs 300.
How to reach
Being nestled in the heart of Bhopal, you can make your travel easier as Bhopal is well connected to all the major cities of the state as well as to other states. You can easily access up to the National park. The travel routes to Bhopal are by airways, by railways and by roadways. Raja Bhoj Airport is the nearest airport to Bhopal located at a distance of 10 kilometers. Bhopal Habibgan railway station is the nearest train station. Several luxurious with all facilities like AC/ sleeper buses ply to Bhopal from different cities. Numbers of taxis are available outside the station and airport which you can take on hire up to the National park.
and is located on the east bank of the Hooghly River. It is a very old city of India and is the third most populous metropolitan city. Bandel church is one of the most prominent and oldest churches in India. The name Bandel comes from the Bengali word ‘Bandar’ meaning port. It is 43 kms from Kolkata, West Bengal. This religious monument also stands as a symbol of Portuguese settlement in India in 1599, dedicated to Lady of Rosary. The Bandel Church also acts as a pilgrimage for the Roman Catholics from all over the world.
It was during the 16th century Portuguese used Bandel as a port and later on around 1571 the Mughal Emperor Akbar gave them permission to build a town for their benefit. As a result by 1598 there was lots of Catholic around Hooghly having both native and mixed races. In 1579 they also built a port and a fort as well. The Portuguese then asked for permission to preach christanism and erect churches there thus the Bandel Church was built in 1599. In 1632 it was burnt by the Moors and then in its place a newer church was constructed in 1660 by Gomez De Soto. The oldest and the most attractive church of India welcome you through an arched gateway on the banks of the Hooghly River. The entrance is copulated with a statue of Mother Mary and Jesus standing in a boat. The church has altogether three altars, a small organ and many tomb stones. It also has a shrine of Mother Mary and has a statue of Our Lady of the Happy Voyage on the balcony of the church. It is said that the statue reappeared itself back after it was drowned for several days. There is also a garden area in the church which has many beautiful flowers with distinctive colors. It is said by many people who have visited the church that Mother Mary fulfills one wish. The Bandel Church is visited by people from all over the world
Places nearby
Tarakeswar
It attracts large number of tourists every year and houses the Taraknath temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and also houses the shrines of Lakshmi Narayan and Kali nearby. During Shivratri thousands of devotees comes to offer prayers in the temple and on regular days Mondays is almost crowded with devotees. 6 kms from there is also a Buddhist temple located.
Imambara
The famous Imambara is the two storied building having a mosque and a graveyard of Haji Mohammad Mahasin who built it in 1861. The wall has been beautifully decorated with the writings of the Holy Koran and is located on the bank of the river Ganges.
Kamarpukur
Kamarpukur is a birthplace of Sri Ramakrishna Paramhans. In 1951 a temple was built here. There are a number of other temples and old buildings here also including the ancestral home of Swami Ramakrishna. Yogi’s Siva temple and Raghubir temple are the two nearby temples that is also been widely visited by the tourists.
How to reach
By air: The nearest airport is the Netaji Subhash Chandra Airport which is 36 km away from the destination.
By train: Trains are easily accessible to Bandel from any other major cities of the country. The nearest railway station is the Bandel Junction.
By road: through road it takes 1hour and 50 mins to reach Bandel from Kolkata with a clean traffic which is a hard thing to ask for.
It is a storehouse of numerous temples and is one of the major pilgrimage sites of the Hindus. Also famed as Ujjayini or Avanti, Ujjain is positioned on the bank of the river Shipra, it is the dwelling place of one of the twelve shrines of Jyotirlinga of Lord Shiva. Hence, it is an important hub for religious activities. Situated in the Ujjain District of Madhya Pradesh, Ujjain also houses the Kumbh Mela
Places of tourists interest in Ujjain
Bade Ganeshji Ka Mandir
Bade Ganeshji Ka Mandir is one of the most important sacred temples of Ujjain. It is an ode to the very auspicious Lord Ganesha. Located near the reservoir of the Mahakaleshwar temple, the Bade Ganeshji Ka Mandir also houses the panchmukhi idol of Lord Hanuman. The Mandir consists of the largest sculpted idol of Lord Ganesh ever known.
Gadkalika Temple
Pinpointed at a distance of about 2 miles from the holy city of Ujjain exists the very famous Gadkalika Temple. Situated in close proximity with the Bhartrihari Caves, the temple is devoted to Goddess Kali, as can be seen from the name. It is said that the legendary poet Kalidasa glorified the image of Kali present in the temple.
Kaliadeh Palace
Constructed by the Sultans of Mandu in the year 1458, the Kaliadeh Palace uplifts spontaneously on an island in the Shipra River. The building was built over an antique Sun Temple with the blend of Persian architectural approach. The masterpiece was damaged and reconstructed in 1920 and is hence an important tourist centre of Ujjain.Observatory (Veda Shala)
Ujjain holds a dignified position in the arena of astronomy since time immemorial. One of the live demonstrations of this progression can be seen in the form of Veda Shala. Constructed by the Rajput King, Jai Sungh II, the Veda Shala is one of the most antique places of India. A must visit place for the astronomy lovers. The place is now a major research centre.
Harsiddhi Temple
The Harsiddhi temple is an extremely important temple as it is one of the prestigious Shaktipeeths of India. The temple encompasses the vermilion shaded pin-up of Goddess Annapurna, positioned amid the idols of Goddess Lakshmi and Goddess Saraswati. As per the Hindu myths, when Lord Shiva was carrying his burnt beloved Sati, this was the place where her elbow dropped. Hence, it is a very sacred place for the Hindus which witness numerous pilgrims every year. Besides this, the architecture of the temple is also breath taking with Marathi tints in it.
Mahakaleshwar Temple
The Mahakaleshwar Temple is another temple dedicated to Lord Shive, it is actually one of the twelve jyotirlingas in India. The architecture of the temple is awe-inspring. Ranging from the grand Shikhara to the highly trendy frontals, the temple is extremely victorious in invoking religious sentiments among the people. The Mahakaleshwar Temple is blessed with heavenly powers produced from powerful mantras and shlokas.
Thus it can be seen that Ujjain, being one of the most ancient cities of India has a lot of store in it. Widely known as Shiva’s land, Ujjain is must visit place for all the Hindus as well as the followers of Shiva. If one wants to get immersed in the devotion of the Almighty, then Ujjain is quite a place. Not only this, tourists also visit the visit the place in huge amounts from state, national and international level.
It is located in Alappuzha district of Kerala and is world famous for its backwaters and houseboat cruise. It is one of the most important tourist attractions in the country attracting tourists from round the world. It has a vast internetworking of canals,lakes and rivers giving the place an unique ecosystem of its own and is blessed with pristine beauty and lush greenery.
The backwaters of Allepey are best explored on a houseboat cruise and a ride in houseboat is considered to be an unique experience and is very famous amongst tourists, specially newlywed honeymoon couples.Allepey is the hub of backwater tourism in India and any vacation or holiday in Kerala is incomplete without a visit to Allepey.It is also famous for Coir production and has an active Coir research Institute functioning.Allepey is also sometimes referred as Alappuzha.
Attractions
Main attractions in Allepey areBoat ride/Houseboat Cruise in the backwaters of Allepey:Allepey is also referred as “Venice of the East” in popular media and the best way to explore the beautiful backwaters is by hiring a houseboat.Houseboats also known as traditional kettuvallams are boats with all modern amenities required for living onboard and cruising facilities are provided.
All houseboats are usually built in the same pattern and principle using Anjili wood and coir ropes.Houseboats have played a very important role in establishing Kerala in world tourism map.
Krishnapuram Palace:is a palace and museum of architectural importance in Allepey.Bulit in 18th century,it is maintained by archeological department of the state of Kerala.It is built in typical Kerala style architecture and is located in Kayamkulam in Allepey district.It is one of the most prominent tourist spots in Allepey and draws scores of tourists both domestic and international.
Allepey Beach:is a popular beach in the resort town of Allepey.It has a lighthouse and shares a glorious maritime history.It has resorts and hotels in its proximity and is quite famous amongst both domestic and international tourists alike.
Mullakkal Temple:is one of the most prominent temple in the state of Kerala and is structured in Old Kerala architectural style.It is approximately 500 years old and is open to people from all caste and religions.The temple is devoted to Goddess “Mullakkal Devi” or referred as Mullakkal Amma.
Edathua Church:is a place in Kuttanad,Allepey district.It is famous for St George Catholic Church which is also known as Edathua Church.It is one of the most famous churches in the state of Kerala and attracts people from all walks of life.
Accomodation:
Allepey caters to all kinds of accommodation,starting from luxurious resorts to basic homestays and youth hostels.Houseboats:
It is most famous for its stay and cruise in houseboats which is an unique experience in itself.Plenty of options are available for hiring houseboats according to budget and requirements.One can hire a basic or a luxurious/deluxe houseboat al Allepey to explore the pristine backwaters and lush greeney.
Some of the more popular resorts in Allepey are:
4 star properties:
The World Backwaters:is located at Thanneermukkom in Allepey district in the state of Kerala.Major amenities in this luxurious resort include Ayurveda treatment centre,spa,multi-cuisine restaurant,travel desk,ample parking,wi-fi,conference hall and board room,water sports and outdoor activities,gymnasium and swimming pool.
Kayaloram Resort:is a heritage resort situated beside the banks of Vembanad Lake.Major facilities in this heritage property include currency exchange,laundry service,swimming pool,concierge,ayurveda centre,boat ride and multi-cuisine restaurant.
3 star properties:
Pagoda Resort:is located at Chungam, Old Thirumala Road, Mullakkal, Allepey in the state of Kerala.It is a three star property and major amenities include multi cuisine restaurant,ayurveda and yoda centre,swimming pool,out door activities,internet facility,conference hall,spa,currency exchange,travel desk and laundry service to name a few.
Coir Village:is located at a place known as Thrikunnapuzha in Allepey district in the state of Kerala.It is an island resort providing major facilities such as comfortable accommodation,room service,ayurveda centre,foreign exchange,satellite television and multi cuisine restaurant.
Other Facts/Details:
Climate:Allepey has a moderate climate through out the year but summer months can be warm and humid. It receives the bulk of its rain from the south-west branch of monsoon during the months of June to September also gets substantial rainfall from north east branch of monsoon in the months of November and December.
Best Time to Visit:
Allepey is best visited through out the year but becomes very attractive and beautiful during monsoon’s on account of its lush greenery.Summer months are warm and humidity is on the higher side.
The town is also alternatively known as “Cape Comorin”.The town of Kanyakumari shares a rich cultural heritage and history and the name of the town is derived from the Hindu Goddess “Devi Kanya Kumari”. It is considered to be the most southern most point in Mainland India and is extremely famous amongst domestic and international travelers on account of its geographical importance, temples And historical structures.Kanyakumari is an important tourist spot and is quite often clubbed as an extension for tour packages to Kerala.The town has recently witnessed a spectacular tourism growth and has developed quality tourism infrastructure to cater to all needs of tourists from round the country and world.
Attractions
Main attractions in Kanyakumari are:Vivekanda Rock:is an extremely popular tourist attraction in Kanyakumari.The structure is located at Vavathurai,Kanyakumari and is dedicated to Hindu Spiritual Leader known as Swami Vivekananda. It is said that Swami Vivekananda attained enlightenment in this rock.
Thiruvalluvar Statue:is a stone structure dedicated to Tamil Poet named Tiruvalluvar.The statue is located at a small island nearby Vivekananda Memorial.It is a top tourist attraction and draws tourists from round the country who come to cherish this magnificent man made structure. The statue was opened on 1st January in the year 2000 for tourists.
Kanyakumari Beach:is a beautiful beach with multi coloured sands. The sea shore is rocky and there is a lighthouse to enhance the beauty of the place. The beach is famous for its breathtaking views of sunset and sunrise.
Accomodation:
Kanyakumari has developed a well established tourist infrastructure and has the option of many mid budget and budget accommodation.Some of the well established hotels in Kanyakumari are:4 star hotels
Sparsa Resort:is a 4 star property located at Beach Road near Sunset Point, Kanyakumari in the state of Tamil Nadu. Major facilities in this resort include conference centers, swimming pool, health club, travel desk, foreign exchange,24 hours room service, same day laundry and dry cleaning service, internet, luggage storeroom, multi cuisine restaurant, bar and well appointed accommodation.
3 star hotels:
Sea View: is situated at East Car Street, Kanyakumari. Amenities in this hotel include 24 hours room service, laundry service, direct dial telephone, free parking, travel desk, multi cuisine restaurant,bar and comfortable accommodation.
Singaar International:is located at Main Road, Kanyakumari in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Major facilities includes swimming pool, banquet halls, conference facility, multi cuisine restaurant, bar, business centre, valet car parking, in house laundry, ayurveda, internet facility, travel desk, safe deposit lockers and deluxe accommodation.
Other Facts/Details:
Shopping:There are plenty of antique shops in and around the town.Sea shells local handicrafts can be easily purchased from any of the shops/shopping centre.Activities:Major activities include pilgrimage and witnessing sunset and sunrise at Kanyakumari Bach.
and is approximately at an altitude of 1700 metres above sea level. It is one of the most popular hill station in southern part of the country and frequented by visitors from round the country and other foreign countries. Munnar is well renowned for its tea plantations,fabulous climate,dams and wildlife sanctuaries in the vicinity. It is a must see destination and is compulsory in a traveller’s itinerary visiting Kerala
Attractions
Mattupetty Lake and Dam: It is a hydro-electricity dam in Idukki district and a very popular tourist attractions in Munnar.Echo Point:is famous for its echo phenomenon and is located on way to Top Station (Highest Point in Munnar)
Kundale Lake:It is a beautiful lake situated at an altitude of around 1700 metres above sea level and is located around 20 kms from Munnar on way to Top Station.Boating and other tourist facilities are available in this scenic spot.It also houses an artificial dam which is a major tourist attraction and has the provision of a golf course near-by.
Rajmalai and Eravikulam Wildlife Sanctuary:is a national park famous for Nilgiri Tahr,an endangered wildlife species and is situated at an altitude of around 2000 metres above sea level.It is a very famous tourist landmark in Munnar and also has the distinction of having the highest peak in Southern part of India,i.e Anamudi.
Amenities and Infrastructure
Road: Munnar is extremely well connected with Kochi and other parts of Kerala through a wide network of national and state highways.The surface distance between Munnar and Kochi is around 150 kms and takes around 5 hours to cover.Railways: Munnar does not have it’s own railway station and the nearest railwayhead is at Kochi,i.e Ernakulam Junction at a distance of 140 kms away from Munnar town.
Airport: Munnar does not have it’s airport and the nearest airport is at Kochi,i.e Cochin International Airport at a distance of 140 kms away approximately from Munnar town.
Munnar does not have it’s airport and the nearest airport is at Kochi,i.e Cochin International Airport at a distance of 140 kms away approximately from Munnar town.
Accomodation:
Munnar caters to all kinds of accommodation,starting from luxurious resorts to basic homestays and youth hostels. Some of the famous resorts/hotels in Munnar and vicinity are:4 star properties:
Silver Tips-Considered to be an upclass hotel offering world class hospitality and ambience. It is located in Old Munnar along Aluva-Munnar highway.Amenities in Silver Tips include conference hall,gym,ayurvedic centre,laundry,24 hours room service,wi-fi internet service and travel services specially pertaining to outdoor activities such as trekking,para gliding and camping.
Tea Valley-Located amidst lush green tea gardens,it is a luxury resort famous for its ambience and amenities/services which it provides to it’s guests. It is located in Pothamedu,Munnar.Main facilities available in Tea Valley are bon fire facility,convention hall,indoor games room,internet,ample car parking,multi cuisine restaurant,travel desk and credit card facility.
3 star properties:
Deepwoods-Located in serene and plush surroundings of tea gardens,it offers comfortable staying options within a reasonable budget. It is located near Letchmi tea factory at Mankulam road,Munnar.Major facilities are independent bungalows,travel service,open air theatre,amphitheatre,butler service,travel desk,laundry service,spacious parking,campfire,outdoor games and banquet hall.
Spice Country:A well known resort located in Chithirapuram area of Munnar,it offers excellent service with stunning scenery and world class amenities.It is located at Chitirapuram,Munnar.Major facilities in the resort include spacious individual balconies attached with each room,play area for children,coffee shop,multicuisine restaurant,conference hall,medical help on request,travel desk and internet facility.
2 star properties:
Forest Haven:Located in the outskirts of Munnar,it offers comfortable accommodation and amenities within a reasonable budget.It is located at Vattiyar at Mankulam Road,Munnar.Major amenities in the resort includes coffee shop,room service,provision for outdoor parties and recreation/games.
Other Facts/Details:
Climate: Climate of Munnar is classified as subtropical highland and usually has less difference in temperature readings between different seasons though in monsoon monthos of June till September, the average daily maximum temperatures are usually less in comparison to other months of the year.Best Time to Visit: Munnar is blessed with a fabulous climate and is considered to be a round the year destination
in the state of Kerala. It was officially declared as a wild-life sanctuary in the year 1950.It is also known as Thekkady and famous as a Tiger and Elephant reserve but also includes other protected species such as Nilgiri Langur,Sambar,Jungle Cat and Travancore Flying Squirrel to name a few.It is a famous tourist attraction and one of the most famous wild life reserves in India and frequented by both foreign and domestic tourists alike.
Attractions
Main attractions in Periyar are:
Periyar National Park and Tiger Reserve:Periyar Wildlife Reserve is the principal attraction in the area.It houses many protected species of wild animals and birds and is world renowned for its pristine surroundings,flora and fauna.The wildlife of Periyar National Park is well explored through a boat ride in Periyar lake.Murikkady:It is located at a distance of around 5-7 kms away from Periyar Wildlife Reserve and is famous for its spice plantations,namely cardamom and pepper.It can be easily visited on way to Periyar Wildlife Reserve.
Mangala Devi Temple:is a very ancient temple located very deep inside Periyar Wildlife Reserve.The temple is dedicated to a deity called Mangaladevi.The temple is considered to be more than thousand years old and commands an astonishing view of Western Ghats and villages in near by state of Tamil Nadu.The temple has an influence of typical Kerala style architecture in its construction pattern.On account of its ecological sensitivity,prior permission is required from forest department to visit this place and is open to devotees only once during the year,i.e for Chitrhrapournami celebrations in the month of April and May.
Vandanmedu:is situated at a distance of 25 kms from Periyar Wildlife Reserve.It houses one of the world’s largest auction centre for cardamom.
Pullumedu:is a famous hill station located around 45 kms away from Periyar Wildlife Reserve.It is famous for its lush greenery and natural beauty.Special permits/permission is required from the forest department to visit this spot.
Kumily:is a town which is situated almost at the outskirts of Periyar Wildlife Reserve.Most of the tourism accommodation and logistical support is available at this town.It has a well developed shopping centre which is frequented by tourists to avail/purchase local handicrafts and other accessories.
Accomodation:
Some of the prominent resorts/hotels in Periyar are:4 star properties:
Wild Corridor:It is located at Murikkady,Kumily.Major amenities include multi-cuisine restaurant,banquets,ayurvedic spa,outdoor and indoor activities,bar-beque,coffee shop.
Elephant Court:It is located in Thekkady,Idukki District,Kerala.Major facilities include indoor games,health club,conference facilities,wi-fi,ayurveda centre,multi-cuisine restaurant and 24 hours coffee shop.
3 star properties:
Jungle Park:It is located at Lake Road,Thekkadyin the state of Kerala.Major facilities in the resort include multi-cuisine restaurant,room service,travel desk,doctor on call,kids play area,camp-fire,internet service.
Rangerwoods:It is situated near Entrance-Gate,Lake Road,Thekkady,Kerala.Major amenities include conference hall,camp fire facility,ample park space,health club,ayuveda centre and outdoor activities.
Grand Thekkady:It is located at Lake Road,Thekkady.Major facilities in the resort include ample parking,wi-fi,medical assistance on request,foreign exchange,travel desk ,coffee shop and roof top restaurant.
2 star properties:
Ambadi Hotel:It is located at Thekkady Junction,Periyar.Major facilities include multi-cuisine restaurant,comfortable rooms,room and travel services.
Other Facts/Details:
Climate: It is usually comfortable through out the year with temperatures being on the lower side during the winters.Periyar receives the bulk of its rainfall from the southwest branch of monsoon and the remaining rainfall from north east branch of monsoon.Best Time to Visit: Periyar is best visited during the months of October till March.
referred as Cashew Capital of the world.Situated along the banks of Ashtamudi lake,Kollam is fast becoming a famous backwater destination and a main beach destination on account of Kollam beach.It has recently established itself in tourist map of Kerala as an attractive destination and is gaining a lot of popularity amongst both foreign and domestic tourists alike.Kollam is fast also an attractive honeymoon destination and is trying to encash the booming tourism market in the state of Kerala.
Attractions
Main attractions in Periyar are:Thangassery Lighthouse:is a prominent tourist attraction in Kollam.The structure was built in the year 1902 and commands a breathtaking view of the sea.The beacon in the lighthouse is believed to be seen from a distance of thirteen kilometers away in the sea.
Ashtamudi Lake:is a wetland ecosystem located in Kollam district in the state of Kerala.It has a vast internetworking of canls,rivers and lakes and makes it a hub for backwater tourism.Numerous resorts and luxury houseboats are found along the banks of the lake and tourism is an important economic activity.The wetlands of Ashtamudi are of international importance on account of its ecology as defined by Ramasar Covention.
Kollam Beach:is a famous beach attraction in the south Kerala.It also has one of the oldest ports in Kerala which was established to facilitate cashew trade.Ruins of Dutch and Portuguese forts are also an added tourist attraction in this beautiful spot.
Thirumullavaram Beach:is a very beautiful and unspoilt beach located at a distance of around 5 kms away from Kollam city.It is famous for its sandy beach, beautiful surroundings and Mahavishnu Temple.
Accomodation:
Kollam caters to a wide range of accommodation, starting from luxurious resorts to basic homestays and guest houses. Some of the more popular resorts in Kollam are:4 star properties:
Quilon Beach Hotel: is located at Kollam Beach in the state of Kerala.Major amenities include 24 hours room service,laundry service,convention centres,muti cuisine restaurant ,Wi-Fi on request,bar,fitness centre and swimming pool.
Hotel All Season:is located at Mathilil,Kollam in the state of Kerala.Major facilities in this hotel include 24 hours room service,executive lounge,coffee shop,health club,banquet facility,discotheque and comfortable accommodation.
Fragrant Nature Hotel:is located at Nedungolam,Paravur in Kollam district in the state of Kerala.Major amenities in this hotel includes room service,credit card payment facility,laundry service,24 hours security,baby siting,foreign exchange,internet,yoga and ayurveda.
3 star properties:
The Vaidya: is a mid budget hotel located at Residency Road,Asramam,Kollam in the state of Kerala.Major facilities in this hotel include room service,restaurant,business centre with internet access,gym,parking and comfortable accommodation.
Nila Palace:is a luxury hotel situated at Cheerancavu, Ezhukone, Kollam in the state of Kerala.Major facilities in this hotel include indoor swimming pool,laundry service,safe at reception,business centre,travel services,parking,credit cards accepted,health club,restaurant,bar,coffee shop and well appointed rooms/accommodation.
Other Facts/Details:
Shopping:Kollam city is the best place for shopping.Some of the prominent shopping places are KC Market,K Mall and H&J Complex to name a few.One can purchase souvenirs, handicrafts and other locally made items.Activities:Some of the major tourist activities in Kollam are canal cruise,houseboat cruise,shopping,yoga and ayurveda.
is world famous for its beautiful and serene beaches and Ayurveda.It has a magnet for tourists who wish to spend their leisure time in peaceful surroundings and sandy beaches.It is a must see destination for any tourist visiting Kerala and is one of the most prominent d rated as one of the best honeymoon destination in India for newly married couples and is quite often frequen by them.
Attractions Main attractions in Kovalam are:
Lighthouse Beach:is the southern most beach in Kovalam and is one of the most visited and popular beaches out there. It is famous for its clear waters, sandy beaches, numerous shacks along the beach,water sports and a man made lighthouse structure which is still operational.Hawah Beach:is also sometime’s referred as Eve’s Beach,it is less frequented and is more often used by local fishermen to carry out fishing activity.It is famous for its calm blue waters and rocky formations.
Samudra Beach:is primarily a fishing village and very less commercialized. It is famous for its peaceful and serene surroundings as tourism activities are very limited here.
Chowara Beach:is a very beautiful sandy beach dotted with coconut trees located at a distance of around 10 kms from Kovalam. Aazhimala Temple and Vizhinjam harbor are added tourist attractions here worth visiting.
Poovar: is a small coastal village famous for its isolated and unspoiled beaches, it is very close to Vizhinjam harbor and Tamil Nadu border. It has recently developed into a very well established tourist destination with many tourism infrastructure projects in the area.
Padmanabhaswamy Temple:is one of the most famous temples in India.The temple has been dulit on the patterns of Dravidian architecture and is considered to be a rich source of information about culture,social customs for the state of Kerala. The temple is dedicated to the Hindu deity of Sree Padmanabha and is frequented from pilgrims and tourists from all round the country.
Accomodation:
Kovalam is a world class beach destination and has ample tourist infrastructure to cater the needs of tourists.Some of the more prominent hotels/resorts in Kovalam are:5 star hotels:
Turtle on Beach Resort: is a 5 star luxurious tourist resort located at ITDC Road, Kovalam in the state of Kerala. Major facilities in this resort include ayurveda centre, spa, swimming pool, health club,business centre, recreation, high speed internet and luxurious accommodation with all modern amenities.
Travancore Heritage: is located at Chowara in the state of Kerala. Main facilities in this luxurious resort include swimming pool, ayurveda centre, travel desk, shopping, conference, multi cuisine and beach side restaurant, well appointed and comfortable accommodation.
4 star hotels:
Uday Samudra:is a 4 star property located at GV Raja Road, Samudra Beach, Kovalam in Kerala.Major amenities include beauty parlour, shopping, health club,swimming pool, muti cuisine restaurant, bar, lounge bar, Wi-Fi and marriage hall.
Isola di Cocco:is a luxurious resort located in Poovar, Kerala. Major amenities in this resort include banquet facility, swimming pool, backwater cruises, valet parking, ayurveda centre and muti cuisine restaurant.
3 star hotels:
Sagara Beach Resort: is located at Light House Road, Kovalam in the state of Kerala .Major facilities includes swimming pool, multi cuisine restaurant, ayurvedic spa, Yoga centre, travel desk, safe deposit box, foreign exchange, room service and accommodation.
Samudratheeram Beach Resort: is a resort located at ITDC Grove Beach, Kovalam, Kerala. Major facilities in this 3 star resort include swimming pool, multi cuisine restaurant, room service, housekeeping, travel desk and well appointed rooms/accommodation.
Other Facts/Details:
Shopping:There are plenty of shopping options/souvenir shops around beach area in Kovalam. Many shacks around beaches in Kovalam sell local handicrafts, costumes and several other accessories.Activities: Major activities include backwater cruise, water/aqua sports, ayurveda, yoga, boat rides and pilgrimage
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