Wednesday 3 June 2015

Wagah border

 

      Location of Wagah Borders




India Wagah Borders



About




The Wagah border is a post between India and Pakistan. It has become famous for the beating the retreat ceremony which includes the closing of international gates and the lowering of the flags of both the countries. Around 5000 people visit the Wagah border, which has become very popular among tourists all over the world.

The flag code of India mandates that the national flag shall be flown only from sunrise to sunset. It is an entertainment ceremony and a highly stylized patriotic display as well as an energetic performance. The guards who perform are chosen carefully among those who have great height, ability to perform and imposing stature.

People from both the sides watch the ceremony. The crowd on weekends is heavy and people watch it from the stands.

There are certain things that one should remember while visiting Wagah border. There are jammers here so no mobile phone service is available here. No covered bags are allowed, including ladies handbags or purses. There are stalls nearby,to buy food and bottled water.


History


The ceremony was started in 1959 and was agreed by the government of both the countries. Since then, the ceremony has been conducted with much pomp and splendor. The ceremony started decades ago as a gesture of good will among the two countries. However, the ceremony took an aggressive turn after a few years.

The border place comprises of a huge arch and has gates of both the countries. Seating arrangements are enabled for spectators to watch the ceremony. Exclusive seats are reserved for women. General seating is allowed only for men. There is also a VIP seating close to the gate and requires a special pass.

Location


The watch is located in Attari in Amritsar in the state of Punjab, India. Located at a distance of around 28 km from Amritsar and around 475 km from Delhi, this is at an international border of Pakistan and India. It is located on NH - 1 in Punjab. The border is situated in Lahore in Pakistan around 25 km from the city.


Timing


The ceremony lasts for 45 minutes and is carried out before sunset. 4:15 pm is the time during winter and 4:45 during summer. The border gate is open from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. However, the ceremony starts only after 4:00 pm. So if you want to watch the ceremony, you have to reach the place not later than 3:00 pm.

Seats are packed on weekends and public holidays. No tickets are needed for the event.

Where to stay

Tourist accommodation is not available at Wagah border. However, Amritsar has all types of stay accommodations and is only 30 km from Wagah border.

Wagha Border - Entry Fee, Timing, Address, Official Website

AddressWagah Border, National Highway 1 PB, Amritsar, Punjab - 143001
Entry Fee :No entry fee
Timings :Visiting Hours - 2:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Phone No (Official) +91-172-2625950
Official Websitewww.amritsarcorp.com
Photography allowed or notNot Allowed
Nearest railway stationAtari Railway Station

Taj Mahal

 

Top Tourist Attraction in India : Taj Mahal 

 

"It appears like a perfect pearl on an azure ground.
The effect is such I have never experienced from any work of art."
- British painter, Hodges


The Taj Mahal is the epitome of Mughal art and one of the most famous buildings in the world. The Taj is the most beautiful monument built by the Mughals, the Muslim rulers of India. Taj Mahal is built entirely of white marble. Its stunning architectural beauty is beyond adequate description, particularly at dawn and sunset. The Taj seems to glow in the light of the full moon. On a foggy morning, the visitors experience the Taj as if suspended when viewed from across the Jamuna river. The construction documents show that its master architect was Ustad ‘Isa, the renowned Islamic architect of his time. The documents contain names of those employed and the inventory of construction materials and their origin. Expert craftsmen from Delhi, Qannauj, Lahore, and Multan were employed. In addition, many renowned Muslim craftsmen from Baghdad, Shiraz and Bukhara worked on many specialized tasks. It is one top tourist attractions of the world. Throughout the year thousands of tourists from different parts of the world visit Taj Mahal. 



      The tomb is the representation of the house of the queen in Paradise, and  its setting was based on the palace gardens of the great nobles. Taj Mahal was built by a Muslim, Emperor Shah Jahan (died 1666 C.E.) in the memory of his dear wife and queen Mumtaz Mahal at Agra, India. It is an "elegy in marble" or some say an expression of a "dream." Taj Mahal (meaning Crown Palace) is a Mausoleum that houses the grave of queen Mumtaz Mahal at the lower chamber. The grave of Shah Jahan was added to it later. The queen’s real name was Arjumand Banu. In the tradition of the Mughals, important ladies of the royal family were given another name at their marriage or at some other significant event in their lives, and that new name was commonly used by the public. Shah Jahan's real name was Shahab-ud-din, and he was known as Prince Khurram before ascending to the throne in 1628.


        The Taj has some wonderful specimens of polychrome inlay art both in the interior and exterior on the dados, on cenotaphs and on the marble jhajjhari (jali-screen) around them. The mausoleum is a part of a vast complex comprising of a main gateway, an elaborate garden, a mosque (to the left), a guest house (to the right), and several other palatial buildings. The Taj is at the farthest end of this complex, with the river Jamuna behind it. The large garden contains four reflecting pools dividing it at the center. Each of these four sections is further subdivided into four sections and then each into yet another four sections. Like the Taj, the garden elements serve like Arabesque, standing on their own and also constituting the whole.
Where it is
The Taj Mahal is located in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India. The Taj is at the farthest end of this complex, with the river Jamuna behind it. The mausoleum is located on the right bank of the river Jamuna at a point where it takes a sharp turn and flows eastwards.









How to reach
Agra is 200 km southeast from Delhi and is one of the points of the tourist's Golden Triangle of Agra-Delhi-Jaipur. Agra is also very well connected via rail and road with other nearby cities and tourist destinations. Close to 20 trains connect Delhi and Agra each day with journey times varying from 2 hours to 5 hours. Service to Agra's Kheria Airport is seasonal.

Taj Mahal Main Gateway


 


 


15 Top Kerala Attractions and Things to Do

What to See and Do in Kerala

The unique variety of attractions in Kerala ensures that this tropical south Indian state is high on the list of people's places to see in India. Its unique culture and extremely picturesque setting, which contrasts with the fast-paced modern world, make Kerala the perfect destination for relaxing and rejuvenating! Don't miss these top Kerala attractions and things to do.
Looking for things to do around Kochi? Check out these Top Kochi Tours as well.
Visiting Kerala during the Onam Festival? Don't miss these Top 5 Onam Attractions.

1.  Cruise the Backwaters on a Houseboat

South India, Kerala, Backwaters, Kettuvalum (houseboat) - Pierre Cheuva/Photononstop/Getty Images

At trip to Kerala wouldn't be complete without a trip along the Kerala backwaters on a houseboat. The lush green palm-fringed landscape, diverse wildlife, and houses and villages that line the backwaters make a journey along these waterways seem like a journey through another world. It's one of the most tranquil things you can do. The Kerala backwaters are a memorable backdrop for a romantic Kerala getaway as well.

2.  Experience Traditional Village Life

148835671.jpg - Mark Daffey/Getty Images

Kerala's famous backwaters are dotted with small villages where it feels like time has stood still. Visiting them is a very different way of experiencing the backwaters and the life that exists along them. You can even have a meal with a local family there and hear their stories.

3.  Get an Ayurvedic Treatment

144460487.jpg - Visage/ Getty Images.

Ayurveda is the medical side of yoga. It's India's traditional natural healing system, which has been practiced for over 5,000 years. Most places that offer Ayurvedic treatment are located in Kerala, due to the climate and abundant supply of medicinal plants and herbs there. Whether it's a simple massage that you're after, or a treatment for a medical problem, Kerala is the place to get it.

4.  Attend a Temple Festival 

 - Image: Kerala Tourism.
 
Kerala temple festivals are elaborate and exotic, with the highlight being the elephants. The festivals feature large processions of bejeweled elephants, drummers and other musicians, colorful floats carrying gods and goddesses, and fireworks.

5.  Spend a Day with Temple Elephants

 - Getty Images/Martin Child.

Love Kerala's elephants? There are around 650 of them in captivity, and nearly half participate in temple processions. It's possible to have a relaxed and intimate encounter with a temple elephant. You can visit one of the places that houses them, and help their caretakers ride and bathe them. Travspire offers day tours, departing from Kochi and Thrissur.

6.  Get a Cooking Lesson or Take a Food Tour

200552437-001.jpg - David Sanger/Getty Images

Kerala is renowned for its cuisine, featuring delicious seafood and coconut flavors. If you're not content to simply feast on it and would also like to learn how to cook Kerala style, you'll be pleased to know that there's a wide range of options available. They range from proper residential culinary holidays to casual cooking lessons. You'll find many of the popular ones listed in this article.

7.  Catch a Kathakali Performance

kath.jpg - Image: Kerala Tourism

Kathakali is a very unusual and ancient form of dance-drama that's traditional to Kerala. You won't get to see performers dressed up like this every day, that's for sure! The look, with its red bloodshot eyes, borders on grotesque. The movements of the dance are subtle, yet they tell a meaningful mythological story. Performers are required to undergo intense training, including hours of eye exercises, when learning the art of Kathakali. Try the Cochin Cultural Center or the Kerala Kathakali Center to see a performance. Classes are also offered in Kathakali and other art forms.

8.  Catch a Theyyam Performance

theyyam_2_478.jpg - Image: Kerala Tourism.

The small town of Kannur, in northern Kerala, is known for its secluded beaches, mysterious masked spirit-possession theyyam rituals, and hand loom weaving. The theyyam season runs from October until May and Kerala Tourism has a comprehensive calendar of theyyam events.

9.  Explore Historic Fort Kochi

82225127.jpg - Chris Caldicott/Getty Images

Known as the "Gateway to Kerala", Kochi is an enchanting city that's had an eclectic influence. Arabs, British, Dutch, Chinese, and Portuguese have all left their mark there. The architecture and historical sites in Fort Kochi draw most of the visitors to the area. Fort Kochi is an excellent place to explore on foot or bicycle.

10.  Watch a Snake Boat Race

 - Image: Kerala Tourism

For a few months every year during the monsoon season, Kerala comes alive with colorful snake boat races. Typical snake boats are 100 to 120 feet long, and hold around 100 rowers. Each of the villages in the region has its own snake boat, which they take great pride in. Every year the villagers get together and race the boats along the lakes and rivers. 

 

6 Tourist Places in Kerala that You Must Visit

Enjoy a Vacation at These Popular Kerala Tourist Places

 

Kerala, in south India, is often referred to as "God's Own Country". This coastal state is rich in distinctive traditions and culture, and lush unspoiled tropical beauty. Most of all, Kerala is known for its elephants, elaborate temple festivals, and the tranquil backwaters. The pace of life is slow, making Kerala the perfect place for a leisurely vacation.
Don't miss these top 6 Kerala tourist places.
Prefer to see Kerala on a tour? This seven day small group Beaches & Backwaters backpackers trip from popular G Adventures includes Kochi, the Kerala backwaters, and Varkala on its itinerary. G Adventures also offers this seven day Highlights of South India small group tour to Kochi, Kumarakom, Kerala backwaters, and Marari beach.

      

1.  Fort Kochi

 - Martin Child/Getty Images.

Known as the "Gateway to Kerala", Kochi is an enchanting city that's had an eclectic influence. Arabs, British, Dutch, Chinese, and Portuguese have all left their mark there. The architecture and historical sites in Fort Kochi attract most of the visitors to the area.

2.  Kerala Backwaters

Colourful boat moored on the Kerala backwaters - Martin Child/The Image Bank/Getty Images

One of the most tranquil and relaxing things you can do in Kerala is take a trip in a houseboat along the palm-fringed Kerala canals, known as the backwaters. Freshly cooked Indian food and chilled beer on board the boat make the experience even more enjoyable. You can even spend the night out on the middle of a lake. Stay a few nights at a hotel or resort along the backwaters too. Bliss!

3.  Munnar

505492201.jpg - Bartosz Hadyniak/ Getty Images

If you like tea, a visit to Munnar is a must! The surrounding region is renowned for its sprawling tea plantations. See tea being picked and processed, and try fresh tea straight from the gardens. There's even a tea museum. The area is blessed with the natural beauty of winding lanes, misty hills, and forests full of exotic plants and wildlife. Adventure enthusiasts can trek to Anamudi, the highest peak in south India, explore Eravikulam National Park, or go rock climbing and para gliding.
These 10 Munnar Hotels and Homestays offer a diverse range of accommodations.

4.  Varkala

 - Sharell Cook

The setting of this Varkala beach is striking enough to take your breath away, with a long winding stretch of cliff and views that extend over the Arabian Sea. A paved footpath runs along the length of the cliff, bordered by coconut palms, quaint shops, beach shacks, hotels, and guest houses. Nestled at the bottom of the cliff is a long stretch of sparkling beach, reached by steps leading down from the cliff top. It's not surprising that Varkala is one of India's best beaches.

5.  Wayanad

175133246.jpg - Tim Draper / Getty Images.

Wayanad is a bright green mountainous region that stretches along the Western Ghats. It has a great deal of scenic appeal. Abundant coconut palms, thick forests, paddy fields, and lofty peaks form the landscape. Due to the nature of its terrain, the area also has much to offer adventure enthusiasts. Popular attractions include trekking to Chembra Peak and Meenmutty Falls, exploring old Jain temples, climbing to Edakkal Caves, and wildlife spotting at Muthanga and Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuaries. Another highlight of Wayanad is the many delightful homestays in the area.

6.  Periyar National Park

491687707.jpg - Mohan Singh / Getty Images

Kerala's Periyar National Park, in the Thekkady district, is one of the most popular national parks in southern India. One of the best things about the park is that it stays open all year round, even during the monsoon season. Periyar is known for its elephants, and 30 minute elephant rides through the jungle are offered. Safaris are carried out by boat, with the lake being particularly captivating at sunset. Visitors can also take part in an excellent variety of eco-tourism activities there

Top 10 Tourist Places in Kerala


kerala tourist places map

1. Munnar

munnar-tea-plantations

Munnar is Known as Kashmir of South India & its situated in Kerala. Munnar is located at an altitude of 1600 feet above sea level. It is one of the attractions that contributed to Kerala’s popularity as a travel destination among domestic and foreign traveler's snuggled in the lap of such an alluring terrain, Munnar is one of the most beautiful hill stations in Kerala.
Main Attractions in And Around Munnar
  • Eravikulam National Park:
Eravikulam National Park is located along the Western Ghats in the Idukki district of Kerala. The Western Ghats, Anamalai Sub-Cluster, including all of Eravikulam National Park, is under consideration by the UNESCO World Heritage Committee for selection as a World Heritage Site.
  • Indo Swiss Dairy Farm:
Mattupetti Indo Swiss farm is open from morning to evening for the tourists to visit it. This farm is well looked after, as it is abundantly rich in nature. In fact, it is believed to be the nature’s paradise with Mattupetti Lake being snuggled close on the Idukki hills, which is extraordinarily a nature opulent district of Kerala. Cochin international airport is the nearest airport at a distance of 130 km, the Kottayam railway station is 142 km from Munnar and Mattuppetti is 13 km from Munnar by road.
  • Chinnar Wild Life Sanctuary:
The Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the rain shadow region of Western Ghats of Kerala, India., and represents a large number of plants and animals unique to the thorny vegetation. Apart from the dry thorn forests, due to the significant variation in altitude and rainfall, it has a wide array of habitat types like deciduous forests, dry thorny forest,riparian types, sholas and grasslands that are interspersed with plains, hillocks, rocks and cliffs which provide micro habitats for varied forms of life.
  • Anamudi:
The highest peak (2695 m) south of the Himalayas, towers over the sanctuary inmajestic pride. The slopes of the hills abound in all kinds of rare flora and fauna.The Atlas moth, the largest of its kind in the world, is a unique inhabitant of the park. Other rare species of fauna found here are the Nilgiri Langur, the lion-tailed macaque, leopards, tigers, etc.
  • Tata Tea Museum:
The museum is located at the Nallathanni Estate of Tata Tea in Munnar and is worth a visit. Munnar has a legacy of its own when it comes to the origins and evolution of tea plantations. Taking account of this legacy and to preserve and showcase some of the exquisite and interesting aspects on the genesis and growth of tea plantations in Kerala’s high ranges, a museum exclusively for tea was opened some years ago by Tata Tea in Munnar. This Tea Museum houses curios, photographs and machineries; all of which have a story to tell on the origins and growth of tea plantations in Munnar.Not only this, but much more about what all you desire for you perfect vacations or honeymoon, can be availed here. The best nature speckled beauty, long natural walks, drives, romance and grandeur will make your trip an ideal one.
  • Idukki Arch Dam:
Idukki Arch Dam is the world’s second and Asia’s first arch dam, constructed across the Kuravan and Kurathi hills. 550 ft. high and 650 ft. wide, the dam lies close to the Cheruthoni barrage. To its west is the Kulamavu Dam. Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary is located close by. This prestigeous project of our nation is situated in Idukki District and its underground Power House is located at Moolamattom which is about 19 kms from Thodupuzha.


2.  Thekkady
periyar tiger reserve
Thekkady
 
Thekkady is probably the best place in Kerala to observe wildlife and hence its a dream destination for any tourist visiting Kerala.From the mighty Indian elephant to the Great Indian Tiger ,this place  has it all.Elephants, Deers,boars,bisons and lion tailed macaques are a common sight in the reservoir area.
Main Activities Near By:
  • Nature Walk in Periyar Tiger Reserve:-
Nature Walk is an interpretive sandal protection trekking programme offering excellent opportunity of watching birds, butterflies and other wildlife through a range of habitats during the 4-5 km 3-hours walk.

3.Alappuzha Backwaters

alappuzha backwaters
A B
Alappuzha is an important backwater tourist center, attracting several thousands of foreign tourists each year. The intricate networks of canals that snake their way through the vast expanse of  paddy fields, through the lanes give Alappuzha the sobriquet of Venice of the East. The district is famous for its boat races houseboat holidays, beaches , marine products and coir industry.
Main Attractions in Allappey
  • Statue Of Karumadikuttan:
The small village near Ambalapuzha is known for the black granite statue of Lord Buddha known as Karumadikuttan. The statue dates back to 10th century. Karumadikuttan is located in Karumadi, a small village near Ambalapuzha. Karumadikuttan statue is located 3 kms. East of Ambalappuzha, in Alapuzha district. When you travel 15 Km from Alappuzha enroute NH 47 between Kollam and Alappuzha, you can reach the Karumadikuttan statue. Buddhism came to Kerala in the 3rd century B.C. Renaissance in the 8th century B.C. saw the decline of  Buddhism.
  • Mannarasala Sri Nagaraja Temple:
Mannarassala Sree Nagaraja Temple is a very ancient and internationally-known centre of pilgrimage for the devotees of serpent gods. The temple is located about three kilometers to the south-east of the bus station in N.H.47 at Haripad, in Alleppey district of Kerala.Haripad, a culturally renowned ancient town with prominent role in the history of Central Travancore, is rich with its exquisite green paddy fields, towering coconut palms and serene atmosphere of the adjacent hamlets.
  • Revi Karuna Karan (RKK) Memorial Museum:
The Revi Karuna Karan (RKK) Memorial Museum is an architectural marvel. There is a lush lawn with a large kidney shaped pond with full of exotic varieties of water lilies. And the other side a beautiful gazebo with 6 statues made by Italian marbles.entrance of the museum has a curved shiny tined glass. area of museum is 28000 sqft including 10000 sqft for exhibition purpose.

4. Vagamon

Vagamon is a hill station situated 1,100 meters above sea level. located in Kottayam-Idukki border of Kerala. It has a cool climate with the temperature between 10 and 23 °C during a summer midday. Vagamon also known as the ‘Scotland of Asia’, was discovered by the Britishers who found the place ideal for tea plantations and they were followed by Christian missionaries who built their abode of service at Kurisumala in Vagamon.

5.  Cochin / Eranakulam

fort kochi kerala
COCHIN
Fort Kochi
Kochi located in Ernakulam district formerly known as Cochin is one of the important seaport in India. Ernakulam is a wide choice for recreation and tourist interests in the Kerala. And an immense scope for shopping. The famous 13th century Italian traveler aptly remarked: “if China is where you make money, then Cochin surely is the place where you spend it!”
Main Tourist Attractions In and Around Cochin
  • Jewish Synagogue: The Jewish synagogue built in Jew Town in 1568 is a beautiful structure. This place of worship attracts numerous visitors every year because of its impressive furnishings. There are splendid Chinese tiles and impressive Belgian chandeliers that have been used to decorate throughout the entire synagogue.
  • Cherai Beach: Vypin Island was formed after the great floods of 1341. The Island is 25 kilometers long and has an average width of 2 kilometers.
  • Marine Drive: Marine Drive is considered to be one of the most beautiful parts of the Kerala Tourism. It is also called Shanmugham Road. The marine walk is the main hangout for the local populace as the view of the backwaters and the harbor from here is excellent. At night the lights from the various ships anchored at the harbor is just breathtaking.
  • Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica: The Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica Is situated at Fort Kochi & it is one of the Eight Basilicas in India. Counted as one of the heritage edifices of Kerala, this church is one of the finest and impressive churches in India and visited by tourists the whole year round. It is a place of devotion as well as a center of historic significance, endowed with architectural and artistic grandeur and Colours of the Gothic style.
  • Fortkochi & Chinese Fishing Nets: The eventful history of this city began when a major flood in AD 1341 threw openthe estuary at Kochi, till then a land locked region, turning it into one of the finest natural harbours in the world. Kochi thus became a haven for seafaring visitors from all over the world and became the first European township in India when the Portuguese settled here in the 15th century.
  • Mattancherry Palace: Mattancherry palace (Lat: 9°57′N Long: 76°15′) is located at a distance of 12 km from Ernakulam in Kerala State. The nearest airport is Nedumbaserry international airport. Mattancherry palace is one of the oldest examples of the Portuguese architecture with oriental influence and is unique from the historical and architectural point of view.
  • Kodanad Elephant Sanctuary:  Kodanad Elephant Sanctuary is a rural riverside village in the Ernakulam district of the state of Kerala . Its a popular picnic spot and tourist destination in kerala too. It is the only elephant rescue and training center in Kerala specialized for rescuing and training stranded adult and baby elephants from the forest regions across Kerala.
  • Ezhattumugham Nature Village : Ezhattumugham is a country village in the Ernakulam .It is situated 11.8 km from the Kochi Airport and 40 km from Cochin. You can get there hiring a taxi from the nearest town Angamaly as there is no public transport to the location.Ezhattumugham is yet to enter the tourist’s itinerary for one very good reason.
  • Athirappally Falls Athirappally falls which sashayed into celluloid history with Raavan, starring Aishwarya and Abhishek Bachchan. Film crews, both from the north and the south, often camp in its precincts to exploit its raw appeal. Therefore the quiet charm of Ezhattumugham, through which Chalakkudy flows leisurely, remains eclipsed by the glamour of Athirappally
6.  Kovalam
kovalam beach
KOVALAM
 
Kovalam is a beach town on the Arabian Sea located around 16 km from Thiruvananthapuram city, Kerala. It is also known as the paradise of the south. Kovalam means a grove of coconut trees and true to its name the village offers an endless sight of coconut trees. Kovalam has three beaches separated by rocky outcroppings in its 17 km coastline, the three together form the famous crescent of the Kovalam beach.

7.  Thiruvananthapuram

trivandrum


Thiruvananthapuram  also known as Trivandrum, is the capital of the Indian state of Kerala and the headquarters of the Thiruvananthapuram District. It is located on the west coast of India near the extreme south of the mainland. Referred to by Mahatma Gandhi as "Evergreen city of India",the city is characterized by its undulating terrain of low coastal hills and busy commercial alleys.
Near By Major Tourist Attractions
  • Priyadarshini Planetarium
  • Vizhinjam Rock Cut Temple
  • Kuthiramalika
  • Kanakakunnu Palace
8.  Thrissur

trissure pooram

Thrissur is also known as the Cultural Capital of Kerala because of its cultural, spiritual and religious leanings throughout history. It houses the Kerala Sangeetha Nadaka Academy, Kerala Lalithakala Akademi and Kerala Sahitya Academy. The city hosts the Thrissur Pooram festival, the most colourful and spectacular temple festival in Kerala.
Attractions
  • Athirappally Waterfalls & Vazhachal Waterfalls: Athirapally Waterfalls is the most prominent getaway from Cochin and attracts millions of visitors every year. Together with Vazhachal and the picturesque route through Western Ghats presented Athirapally a prominent seat in World tourist Map. The most beautiful waterfalls in Kerala, a must visit spot for anybody who would like to enjoy the beauty of Kerala is Athirapally Waterfalls. 
  • Anakkayam:Anakkayam is Located near Chalakudy en route to Sholayar Peringalkuthu, Anakkayam is famed for its sparkling sylvan lakes that shimmer like a mirage of quicksilver, the beautiful and tranquil waters that present a spectacle with the nimble movements of the diamonds of sunshine dancing on their surface and its fascinating range of cascading waterfalls that enrapture the tourists. Anakkayam is shrouded in history. 
  • Koodal Manikyam Temple
9.  Wayanad

wayanad

Wayanad
Wayanad is the 12th District in Kerala was formed on 1 November 1980  by carving out areas from Kozhikode and Kannur districts. Kalpetta is the district headquarters as well as the only municipal town in the district. The region was known as Mayakshetra (Maya's land) in the earliest records. Mayakshetra evolved into Mayanad and finally to Wayanad.[1] The Folk etymology of the word says it is a combination of Vayal (paddy field) and Naad (land), making it 'The Land of Paddy Fields'. There are many indigenous tribals in this area. It is set high on the Western Ghats with altitudes ranging from 700 to 2100 m
Attractions in wayanad
  • Kalpetta: It is the district headquarters of  Wayanad, is the only municipality in this hilly region. The town has hotels, bars, restaurants and shops, making it a convenient base to visit this place while at the same time enjoying these facilities.
  • Pookot Lake
  • Edakkal Caves
  • Pakshipathalam
  • Lakkidi: The gateway to Wayanad, Lakkidi is situated 700 m above sea level, at the crest of the Thamarasseri Ghat Pass. Lofty peaks, gurgling streams and luxuriant forests add magic to the journey up the winding roads to this hill station. (5 km south of Vythiri)
  • Sulthan Bathery: This Place is situated at about 930 meters above mean sea level. One can find beautiful folded hills across the horizon. This town was part of Kidanganadu Village, which got its name because the presence of the Kidangans the tribes. Later, it came to be known as Sultan Bathery, the Malayalam version of its name.
  • Banasura Sagar Dam: This project is the largest earthern dam in India and the second largest in Asia. It is located in the midst of lovely, mist-clad hills with a wildlife sanctuary and park full of flowering trees.
  • Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is an animal sanctuary It is spread over 344 km² & It is Situated on the way from Mysore to Sultan Battery in Wayanad, Kerala.Wild animals such as Indian Bison, Elephant, Deer and Tiger can be spotted here.Peacocks and Peafowl tend to be very common in the area. This is the second largest wildlife sanctuary in Kerala.
  • Neelimala view point : Closer to Vaduvanchal, Neelimala is an excellent venue for trekking with lots of stimulating trails. The summit of this hill affords a great view of the cascading Meenmutty fallsand the beautiful valley in its foreground.
  • Meenmutty falls: An interesting 2 km jungle trek off the main Ooty road, Meenmutty is the largest and most spectacular waterfall in Wayanad. A unique feature is that water drops about 300 metres over three stages.
10.  Thenmala

thenmala

Thenmala reservoir
Thenmala is the meeting point of kollam-Shencottah road and Trivandrum-Shencottah road, surrounded by dense forest, 66 kms east of kollam. There are a large number of rubber and tea plantations in Thenmala. Timber of all varieties are exported from here to all parts of the country. Themala Dam site is open for tourists. Eco tourists centre is situated at Thenmala.
Main Tourist Attractions
  • Thenmala Eco Tourism Centre: Thenmala Eco Tourism is India’s first planned eco-tourism destination, which is gaining popularity due to its unique vistas, bio-diversity and functioning. Situated about 72 kms from Thiruvananthapuram, in the District of Kollam, the Thenmala Eco-Tourism shares its resources with the famous Shenduruney Wildlife Sanctuary at the foothills of the Western Ghats.
  • Thenmala Reservoir
  • Deer Rehabilitation Centre:  This deer park of Thenmala is a distant part of Thenmala eco tourism and is built within the Kallada river side forest. Apart from various varieties of deers what you can see interesting here is a Tree House and a small Childrens park with  some ecologically blended resting places.

Top Tourist Places in Kerala

kerala tourist places map





1. Munnar

munnar-tea-plantations






Munnar is Known as Kashmir of South India & its situated in Kerala. Munnar is located at an altitude of 1600 feet above sea level. It is one of the attractions that contributed to Kerala’s popularity as a travel destination among domestic and foreign traveler's snuggled in the lap of such an alluring terrain, Munnar is one of the most beautiful hill stations in Kerala.
Main Attractions in And Around Munnar
  • Eravikulam National Park:
Eravikulam National Park is located along the Western Ghats in the Idukki district of Kerala. The Western Ghats, Anamalai Sub-Cluster, including all of Eravikulam National Park, is under consideration by the UNESCO World Heritage Committee for selection as a World Heritage Site.
  • Indo Swiss Dairy Farm:
Mattupetti Indo Swiss farm is open from morning to evening for the tourists to visit it. This farm is well looked after, as it is abundantly rich in nature. In fact, it is believed to be the nature’s paradise with Mattupetti Lake being snuggled close on the Idukki hills, which is extraordinarily a nature opulent district of Kerala. Cochin international airport is the nearest airport at a distance of 130 km, the Kottayam railway station is 142 km from Munnar and Mattuppetti is 13 km from Munnar by road.
  • Chinnar Wild Life Sanctuary:
The Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the rain shadow region of Western Ghats of Kerala, India., and represents a large number of plants and animals unique to the thorny vegetation. Apart from the dry thorn forests, due to the significant variation in altitude and rainfall, it has a wide array of habitat types like deciduous forests, dry thorny forest,riparian types, sholas and grasslands that are interspersed with plains, hillocks, rocks and cliffs which provide micro habitats for varied forms of life.
  • Anamudi:
The highest peak (2695 m) south of the Himalayas, towers over the sanctuary inmajestic pride. The slopes of the hills abound in all kinds of rare flora and fauna.The Atlas moth, the largest of its kind in the world, is a unique inhabitant of the park. Other rare species of fauna found here are the Nilgiri Langur, the lion-tailed macaque, leopards, tigers, etc.
  • Tata Tea Museum:
The museum is located at the Nallathanni Estate of Tata Tea in Munnar and is worth a visit. Munnar has a legacy of its own when it comes to the origins and evolution of tea plantations. Taking account of this legacy and to preserve and showcase some of the exquisite and interesting aspects on the genesis and growth of tea plantations in Kerala’s high ranges, a museum exclusively for tea was opened some years ago by Tata Tea in Munnar. This Tea Museum houses curios, photographs and machineries; all of which have a story to tell on the origins and growth of tea plantations in Munnar.Not only this, but much more about what all you desire for you perfect vacations or honeymoon, can be availed here. The best nature speckled beauty, long natural walks, drives, romance and grandeur will make your trip an ideal one.
  • Idukki Arch Dam:
Idukki Arch Dam is the world’s second and Asia’s first arch dam, constructed across the Kuravan and Kurathi hills. 550 ft. high and 650 ft. wide, the dam lies close to the Cheruthoni barrage. To its west is the Kulamavu Dam. Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary is located close by. This prestigeous project of our nation is situated in Idukki District and its underground Power House is located at Moolamattom which is about 19 kms from Thodupuzha.