Darjeeling Hill Stations | Darjeeling Himalayan | Darjeeling Travel | Darjeeling tours

Fact about Darjeeling Hill Station:

District Location:

27 Deg. 13 Min. N to 26 Deg. 27 Min. N Latitude
88 Deg. 53 Min. E to 87 Deg. 59 Min. E Longitude

Area:

3,149 Square Km

Altitude(Darjeeling Town):

6710 Feet

Temperature (Darjeeling Town):

Annual Mean Max. Temperature 14.9 Degree Celsius
Annual Mean Min. Temperature 8.9 Degree Celsius
Lowest Minimum Temperature -5 D. Celsius on 11/02/1905

Rainfall (Darjeeling Town):

Average Annual Rainfall : 3092 MM

Best Season for Visit:

March to mid June & October to December.

Important Roads:

Siliguri-Mirik -Ghum -60 kms
Sevak-Tista bridge –Kalimpong -60 kms
Tista Bazar to Darjeeling -25 kms
Sukna- Pankhabari-Kurseong -25 kms
Siliguri Darjeeling NH 55 -76 kms

Important Rivers:

Tista, Great Rangit, Mechi, Balason, Mahananda, Lish, Gish, Chel,Ramman, Murti and Jaldhaka.

Clothing required:

Light woollens and tropicals in summer (umbrellas and raincoats are useful) and heavy woollens in winter

Language spoken:

Hindi, Gorkha, Bengali, Nepali, Tibetan and English.

Nearest Railway Station:

Darjeeling(Meter Gauge) & New Jalpaiguri(Broad Gauge)

Nearest Airport:

Bagdogra

Length of International & State Borders:

Nepal Border (Partition River Mechi) - 62.75 mile or 101.02 km.
Bhutan Border (Partition River De Chu) - 18.75 mile or 30.18 km.
Bangladesh Border (Partition River Mahananda) - 12 mile or 19.32 km.
Sikkim Border (Partition Rangit, Teesta, Rangpo, River) - 33.75 mile or 54.33 km.
Bihar Border - 30 mile or 48.30 km.

Rainfall((Darjeeling Town):

Average Annual Rainfall : 3092 MM.
Average Number of Rainy Days : 126 Days.

Rainfall(Siliguri Town):

Average Annual Rainfall : 3620 MM.
Average Number of Rainy Days : 113 Days.

Density:

413 Persons Per Square Km.

Sex Ratio:

1:1

Birth Rate:

2.69% Per Annuam

Death Rate:

2.40% Per Annuam

Infant Mortality Rate:

67 Per 1000

Literacy:

57.62%

Geological Layout of Darjeeling:

The Darjeeling Hill area represents a unique geo- environmental perception. The area of study is primarily composed of erosional landforms produced by southerly flowing streams, which have exposed a full cross section of different tectonic units. The form units are, however approximately the same throughout the hill area, having more or less uniform lithology, structure, climate, soil and vegetative covers. According to Mallet (1875), Audent (1935) the tectonic units are found to be in the reverse order of stratigraphic superimposition, and is represented by Siwalik and Gondwana systems. Towards the inner Himalayas, the thrusted sheets of Daling and Darjeeling group of crystalline rocks succeed these. The contact between different groups of rocks is represented by thrusts, dipping at high angles towards north.

A brief description of various formations of the Darjeeling Himalaya is given here under:

Raised Terraces:

A recent to sub recent formation form a fringe along the hills, especially at the confluences of the rivers. These terraces are composed of gravels, pebbles and boulders mixed with sand and clay. The formation is semi-consolidated, stratified along with the evidences of upheaval at places. This type of high-level terraces is also called the Terai. A 40 m high terrace is found in the Tista valley at Kalijhora.

Siwalik:

The Siwalik system in the Darjeeling hill areas is comprised of mudstones, sandstones, shale and conglomerates along with the bands of shale and lignite. In the Hill Cart Road and along the Tista River a few stretches of good exposers of Siwalik are found. The general strike of these rocks is NNE-SSW to NW-SE with dips varying between 30º to 60º.

Damuda Series:

Just after Siwalik, coarse-grained hard sandstone, quartzites, carbonaceous shale and slates belong to Damuda series are found. The Damuda series of Darjeeling hill areas is equivalent to the Gondwanas of Indian peninsular region. The maximum width of the Damuda is about 2.5 km along the Tista valley. The maximum thickness is about 1000m. The general strike of the bed is from ENE to WSW, with a varying dip of 40º to 90º. In this belt coal seams of about 3 mt. are found near Tindharia region, Lish and Gish Rivers.

Daling Series:

This series is comprised of chlorite shales, phyllites and schist associated with quartzite, which rest over Damuda series. Well-developed form of Damuda series is found along the Tista River and the stretches along the Tindharia –Paglajhora on the Hill Cart Road. The rocks are occasionally traversed by quartz and feldspar veins. The most important feature of this series is increasing metamorphism upwards, where slates form the lowest bed.

Darjeeling Gneiss:

In the higher reaches of the Darjeeling hill areas, the Dalings gradually grade into the more metamorphosed rocks, which is known as Darjeeling Gneiss. The dips of the rocks are irregular and vary in between 40º – 70º. Darjeeling gneisses are highly foliated due to metamorphism. There are two prominent sets of joints in the Darjeeling gneiss, one running roughly NW-SE and the other NNW-SSE. The general direction of the hill spurs is in accordance with the joint directions.

Climate of Darjeeling:

The amount of rainfall plays a very important role in causing instability of slopes. A very high intensity of rainfall within a short span of time is not uncommon in Darjeeling hill areas. It is found in the old records; that this natural phenomenon has occurred about 42 times during the period from 1891 to 1975 (Chatterjee 1982).

The isohyets, maps prepared on the basis of average annual rainfall during last 25 years in 3 subdivisions in Darjeeling hill areas, shows that the value increases from west to east, a maximum concentration of landslides fall between 210cm and 410cm of Isohyets.

Besides seasonality, another climatic feature in the Darjeeling hills is created by orographic factor; causing the vertical zonation of temperature and decline of precipitation. Thus the mountain front is exposed to heavy rainfall, especially the middle parts of the southern hills. The mean annual temperature fluctuate from 24ºc in the plains and drops below 12ºc on the ridge. During summer month the temperature reaches 16ºc-17ºc on the ridge and during winter drops at 5ºc-6ºc.

There is no distinct relation between total rainfall and altitude. The southern slopes of the ridges get much higher (4000-5000mm) precipitation than the leeward sides (2000-2500mm). The next main ridge with Tiger Hill gets 3000mm while to the north the Great Rangit valley receives about 2000mm of rainfall. The annual total rainfall in Darjeeling town fluctuates between 1870-3690mm.

In respect of landslide hazards, the duration of rainfall is very important. Long duration along with heavy down pour may cause deeper infiltration and overland flow, which ultimately may result into the occurrence of landslides on weaker slopes. The records show some of the long continued down pours. Amongst them the most remembered ones are in 1787,1789, 1827 (493 mm in one day) and in June 1950 (965 mm). The last such rainfall recorded during 1968 (2nd and 5th Oct - about 1780 mm). Thereafter, 358 mm in Oct 1973, 382 mm in June 1983, 457 mm in September 1986 and 350mm in 1990 were recorded.

Forests in Darjeeling Hill Areas:

The principal economy of Darjeeling Hill Area depends on tea production, horticulture, agriculture and forestry. The major portions of the forests are today found at elevations of 2000 mts and above. The area located in between 1000-2000mts is cleared either for tea plantation or cultivation.

The four major forest types according to altitudinal variation found in Darjeeling Hill Areas are:

Tropical moist deciduous forest (300-1000mts)
Tropical evergreen lower montane forest (1000-2000mts.)
Tropical evergreen upper montane forest (2000-3000mts.)
Temperate forest (3000-3500mts.)
Sub temperate forest (above 3500mts.)

About 30% of the forest covers found in the lower hills are deciduous. Evergreen forest constitutes only about 6% of the total forest coverage.

Shora robusta remains the most prominent species of Tropical moist deciduous forest along with heavy under growth. In the slopes on southern portion of the Tista and the Great Rangit valley and in the Goke forests, this type is found. These species cannot thrive in areas of lower precipitation.

Tropical lower montane evergreen forests are found on steep higher slopes, where drainage condition is good; Dhupi (Cryptomaria Japonica) is a known variety. The impact of man on this variety is very conspicuous.

Tropical upper montane evergreen forests are found in the areas where high humidity along with dense fogs and less sunlight is available. Undergrowth is dense and contains Nettles, Raspberries, Ferms and bamboos. On the steep ridges, Rhododendrons and bamboos are abundant.

Present Status of Forests:

Prior to 1863 very little attention was paid to the conservation and afforestation programmes. Darjeeling district had 11,000 hectare of Reserve Forest up to 1879. But, after independence due to rapid urbanization, the upper belt of the forest was taken for commercial use. Much of the natural forests in the Senchal, Ghum-Simana and Takdah ranges have been converted. Some patches of natural forests are still found in Reshop, Bara Senchal, Lopchu, Rongbong and Durbin Gram Panchayats. On the difficult terrains, still a few natural forest patches are found.

The analysis of the deforested areas indicates that landslides are most common in these tracts. Therefore, the areas with intense deforestation may be superimposed on the landslides affected area map in support of this hypothesis.

From the map it appears that the followings are the intense deforested areas, which are again landslide-affected area.

a) The forest area within the tea garden areas.
b) The forest area along the principal thoroughfares including NH55.
c) The forest area at the fringe of the urban centers / settlement.

The hill areas of Darjeeling District is divided into 3 forest divisions, viz,– Darjeeling, Kurseong and Kalimpong. The growing pressure of population during the last two decades has left clear marks on the forest resources of the region. Marked decline in forest cover were observed in Takdah-Ghoom-Simana- area of Darjeeling Sadar, Sukhna, Pankhabari regions of Kurseong, and Chel, Jaldhaka catchments of Kalimpong division.

Land- Use Pattern in the Darjeeling Hill Areas:

The land use practices play the most important role in determining the stability factors in respect of landslide hazards. The land use map of Darjeeling Hill Areas explains that there are agricultural activities, tea and medicinal plant plantations, construction works along with forests, rivers, jhoras etc.

The main problem in respect of land use in the Darjeeling Hill Areas is related to high density of population. There is very limited scope for extension of agricultural land to cope up with increasing pressure of population. As a result pressure on forested and other restricted areas is gradually increasing.

Another problem related to land use and consequent landslide is that in Darjeeling Hill Areas, roads have never been examined with its carrying capacity respect with geology etc. Along with new road construction the vehicular movements have increased to a great extent with the rapid growth of trade and commerce. Heavy traffic movements along with heavy rainfall are responsible for most of the landslide occurrences especially on the roads. In recent years, it has been observed that there is a constant increase in the vehicular traffic, especially heavy vehicles like trucks and buses. The record reflects that at present, the number of registered vehicles in the hill subdivisions are more than 6500.

According to the District Gazetteer of Darjeeling district (1980) the road lengths (in km) in the district are as follows;

i National Highway------------ 100km

ii State Highway--------------- 80km

iii Major district road --------- 37km

iv Ordinary district road------ 516km

(the figure includes Siliguri subdivision)

During the last 50 years, the length or pattern of the roads in the hill subdivision did not change significantly, though there has been at least 5 to 7 times increase in the number of vehicles, especially goods vehicles like trucks etc. It has been observed that even during night times, the traffic movement on the roads continues. As a result, due to constant lateral vibrations, the weaker geological structure has become unstable. Beside the above-mentioned roads, there are many roads, which are maintained by the Forest Department. Mention should be made about some of them like: (1) the Cart Road from Sukhiapokhri to Maneybhanjan and Batasia, (2) Cart Road from Simkona to Lalkuthi in Darjeeling Forest Division (3) Sukna-Sevok Road in Kurseong Forest Division (4) the Rassium – Labha Cart Road, South Boundary Cart Road, Central Cart Road and Dalgaon Tar Cart Road in Kalimpong Forest Division.

Land Slide in Darjeeling Hill Areas:

The Blockwise landslide affected areas explain itself the comparative intensity of landslides in the blocks. It appears that the Kalimpong I, Kalimpong II and Rangli – Rangliot blocks are comparatively vulnerable or severly vulnerable regarding landslides. The rate of vulnerability is also high in Kurseong and some parts of Bijanbari and Gorubathan blocks. But as a whole the condition is critical in Kalimpong sub-division, where the land under agriculture exceeds that of the area under plantation or forests. Moreover, these areas are cultivated with root crops like potato, ginger, cardamom and onions. These root crops are harvested just after monsoon in the months of September – October. This particular practice changes the cohesiveness of the soil and makes it vulnerable to erosion.

The slope instability factors along the main thoroughfares due to heavy vehicular movements is another big problem that causes frequent land slides along the roads, especially during rainy season.

The problem of quarry operation and their effect on environment is also another threatening problem and was studied thoroughly by Prof. S.R Basu. The illegally operated quarries along the Lish and Gish basin and Tindharia region not only disturbs the slope stability but also overburdens the rivers and their tributaries with excessive amount of load that ultimately leads to massive siltation along the river beds and the adjoining plains. Thus they destroy the ecological equilibrium of the area. Other than coal mining, stone quarrying from the slope especially under the road is another way of human intervention that causes occasional slope failure. The recent landslide near Giddapahar may be attributed to the effect of stone quarrying under the main thoroughfare.

The Critical Area Zonation map has been prepared by examining the geology, soil, and climatic factors along with land use pattern. It appears from the map that the Grid no. E4 under Rangli-Rangliot block, G4 and H5 under Kalimpong II Block are the most landslide prone areas, where human intervention is maximum.

Possible causes of Landslide hazards in the Darjeeling Hill Areas

1.The trends of evolution or rising of young mountains is the basic reasons for frequent landslide hazards in the Himalayan region. This includes unstable geological structure, tectonic disturbances, parallel subsidence of Himalayan fore deep of slopes.

2. Soil erosion and its conservation play an important role in the hill areas. Because of the presence of very thin soil cover plays an important role in the socio economic development of the hills and its people. All India Soil and Land use Survey under the Ministry of Agriculture, Govt. of India had carried out studies in some specified watershed areas. Otherwise, no systematic soil mapping has been carried out in the region. As such, there is no database, of how much soil cover has been destroyed.

3. The soils of Darjeeling hill areas have developed mainly Darjeeling gneiss, schists and Phyllites. Due to heavy deforestation and excessive cultivation of root crops like ginger, potatoes, onions, cardamoms etc. the extent of soil erosion has increased considerably in the recent times. It is a fact that the entire Darjeeling hill areas do not get any soil deposition. Deposition of soil is only found in the river valleys. Thus, the prevention of soil erosion and conservation of soil is very necessary in the hills.

4. By examining the land use pattern and changing characteristics since the last 150 years, it may be commented that the forest cover is in a precarious condition due to the rapid increase in cultivated land (with the exception of tea gardens), expansion of settlements, construction of roads. The rapid depletion of forest cover is noticeable in the tea plantation area. In most of the tea gardens in the hills, any type of shade tree or trees along the fringe line of the garden for the protection of the soil is more or less insignificant.

5. Rapid expansion of settlements and towns especially along the roads is one of the important causes of frequent landslide hazards in the hills. Multi storied buildings without proper planning along the roads and on the steeper slope increase the load on the already deteriorated slopes.

6. In the rural and inaccessible high hills. Demand for fuel is another important factor, which may be treated as an important cause for slope failure. Unscientific mining of low energetic coal seams and illegal felling of trees to meet the demand of firewood is practically unavoidable in the hills.

7. During the last 2 decades there has been an unprecedented growth of population in the hill areas, especially in the towns. The explosion has been followed by the rapid increase in vehicular movements. The continuous horizontal vibration along the roads gradually destabilizes the already unstable slopes and geological formations.

8. Lastly the demand of water for domestic and commercial purposes has also increased. The forest clearance, dissection of the upper portions of the slopes are reflected in the decrease in ground water level and consequent drying up of the streams during most part of the year.

9. Examining the above mentioned analysis, the future of the Darjeeling hill areas does not look very bright. Systematic and scientific utilization/management of the natural resources is required.

Source: http://darjeeling.gov.in

Accommodation in Darjeeling:

There is no dearth of places to stay in Darjeeling - from charming mansions and modern hotels to homely Tibetan affairs and a youth hostel for budget travellers. Tariffs vary greatly depending on the season and the type of accommodation, but do remember to check the water situation!. You can know more about of place to stay in Darjeeling at 
http://tourismofdarjeeling01.blogspot.com/2011/01/hotels-in-darjeeling-resorts-darjeeling.html.

Weather & Best Season of Darjeeling:

Darjeeling has a moderate climate with all five distinct seasons in a year.

1. Summers (April to June) are mild with maximum temperature never crossing 25 °C. the pleasant climate attracts lots of tourists during this season.

2. Monsoons (July to August) are accompanied with intense torrential rain causing roadblocks.

3. Autumn (September to November) is accompanied with intermiottent showers and Darjeeling looks marvelous during this period.

4. Winters (December to January) have a cool climate within the average range of 5 °C to 7 °C. Minimum temperature this season can be freezing –2 °C. Snowfalls are not common during winters.

5. Spring (February to March) is charming with moderate climate. This season is best with scenic beauties

Best season to visit Darjeeling is from September to June, take woolen clothes in winters and may avoid chilly days in January.

1. September to Novemebr is ideal for sight seeing and outings.

2. December to January is perfect for those like chilly climate and is best period for honeymooners.

3. February to June is ideal for all tourist activities in Darjeeling.

Events & Festivals in Darjeeling:

1. July is the month for celebrations of Buddha Jayanthi, the birth anniversary of Lord Buddha. It is celebrated at various Buddhist monasteries in Darjeeling.

2. October - November is the period of Durgapooja festivals. The festival accompanies with many fairs, celebrations and illuminations.

Flora and Fauna in Darjeeling Hill Station:

The forests in and around Darjeeling have delightful flora and fauna. It is a plantlover's paradise. Four thousand species of flowering plants, three hundred varieties of ferns, including tree fern and countless types of flowerless plants, mosses, algae, fungi, birches, and of course, the prize orchids, wild and cultivated. There are oaks, chestnuts, cherry, maple, birch, alder-all fine and large trees of excellent growth. In the upper hills areas and the alpine zone are the magnolias, buck-landias, pyrus and conifers such as webb, Himalayan firs, English yews, Sikkim spruces, larch, which is the only deciduous conifer, weeping tsuga brunoniana and junipers lvy is common.

The fauna is similarly varied-monkeys, wild cats, tigers, leopards, civets, jackals and foxes, wild dogs, bears, otters, martons, weasels, squirrels(including the Himalayan flying and Assam giant varieties), porcupines, hares, barking deer,sambhurs, chitals and the very rare pangolin. In the foothills and the teria forests, in the sanctuaries (Jaldhapara and Gorumara in the neighbouring Jalpaiguri) can be seen the gaur or Bison, elephants and the single horned rhinoceros.

Darjeeling is the home of six hundred varieties of beautiful birds like flycatchers, fairy bluebirds, orioles, finches, sunbirds, long-tailed broadbills, woodpeckers, rufous piculets, emerald cuckoos, three-toed kingfishers, long-legged falcons, Hoogson's imperial pigeons, emerald doves, besides a large number of seasonal migratory birds on their way to the plains. You can know more about Darjeeling at http://tourismofdarjeeling01.blogspot.com.

Floriculture in the Darjeeling hills:

Darjeeling hills are the natural home for countless orchid species like Cymbidiums, Vandas, Dendrobiums, Paphiopedilums, Lycaste, Odontoglossum, Phaius, Arundina etc. the list being endless.

In the past several decades the nurseries of Kalimpong area was very much involved and buzzing with floricultural activities and developed their own techniques in tissue culture propagation of orchids and other related floricultural plants. In Kalimpong itself we have about four nurseries propagation. Exports from these hills also started 5-6 decade back. For the unlimited scope in the present multi-million dollar floriculture industry, these hills are the natural habitat for innumerable plant species and thus much has been achieved till date by our floriculturists. However, this region still has enormous potential. With the global floricultural trend these hills have limitless scope for production of Gladioli cut flowers to cater to the demand of both the domestic as well as the export market. Cut flower started trade over three decades back. Today other cut flowers, besides Gladioli are anthuriums, Orchids particularly Cymbidiums, bulbous flowers of lilies, ornithogalum and other flowers like gerberas, carnations and greens like ferns are under production.

56 km from Kalimpong and situated at an altitude of 5500ft. panoramic views of Kanchanjunga can be obtained from this point. Fabulous view of Sunrise over Kanchanjunga can be seen from Jhandi Dara. You can know more about Darjeeling at http://tourismofdarjeeling01.blogspot.com.

Darjeeling Teas:

Darjeeling Tea occupies a place of pride for the whole of India. The aroma and taste of Darjeeling orthodox tea is unparalleled in the world. There are a total of 78 tea estates in the hills which have been accorded the status for its produce, as Darjeeling Tea by the Tea Board of India. These estates cover over 17,500 hectares producing over 9 million kg of tea engaging about 50 percent people of the district.

The Darjeeling Tea industry is the mainstay of the economy up in the hills and provides a rewarding life to its workers by way of a steady livelihood and other facilities like housing, statutory benefits, allowances, incentives, creches for infants of working monthers, children's education, integrated residential medical facilities for employees and their families and many more. You can know more about Darjeeling Teas at
http://tourismofdarjeeling01.blogspot.com/2011/01/darjeeling-tea-garden-darjeeling-tea.html.

Trekking In Darjeeling:

One of the famous Darjeeling trekking route taken by the trekkers is that of the Darjeeling-Sandakphu / Phalut trek. This trekking route is best during the months of April, May, October and November. As during these seasons the visibility is clear and the weather is also hospitable. For trekking on this route one does not have to carry much luggage as the Gorkha Hill Council has provided trekkers hut and other facilities all along the route. But it is advisable to carry your own sleeping bags. On this route the trekker must be prepared for all kinds of weather and high altitude mountain sickness. The trek passes through low areas and very high ridges so temperature varies a lot be prepared for all types of weather. There surroundings may be very attractive but there are some areas which have long stretches without any water, so carry water with yourself. Regular meals are available. Guides and porters can also be arranged.

Phalut is also called the view point of the Himalayas and is one of the most important & famous treks in the region. The trek starts with a small bus trip to Manaybhanjang. From here the trek passes through the mountains to Sandakphu. From here you can proceed further up or you can return via Rimbik then to Darjeeling by Bus. One can also take a short cut and not go to Ohalut. From Sandakphu backtrek to Bikhay Bhanjang and cut across to Rimbik. But keep in mind that this trek is a difficult one with no water or food in between. You can know more about Darjeeling treak at
http://tourismofdarjeeling01.blogspot.com/2011/01/sandakphu-trek-darjeeling-darjeeling.html.

Darjeeling Hill Stations, Darjeeling Information, Darjeeling Weather, Darjeeling Treakking, Darjeeling Teas and more

Trip to Kerala | Kerala Travels | Kerala travel tourism | Tourist Places in Kerala | Tourist Attractions in Kerala

Tourist Places in Kerala - South India Tourist Attractions

Kerala, located on the Southwestern tip of India, enjoys unique geographical features that have made it one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in Asia. Fondly referred to as ‘God’s Own Country’, Kerala was selected by the National Geographic Traveller as one of the 50 destinations of a lifetime and one of the thirteen paradises in the world.

An equable climate, serene beaches, tranquil stretches of backwaters, lush hill stations and exotic wildlife are the major attractions of this land. A unique advantage of Kerala is that most of the destinations here are just two to four hour drive from the other.

Classical art forms, colourful festivals, unique cuisine are some of the cultural marvels that await travellers. Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine and Panchakarma, the rejuvenation therapy in Ayurveda have also helped Kerala to gain a pan-global reputation as a top of the line destination.

And in Kerala, the season never ends, thanks to the year-long moderate climate and numerous festivals and events.

How to Reach Kerala:

Referred to as God's own Country, Kerala is a major tourist destination in India and is well connected with other parts of the country. Also being a popular destination in India and the world tourism map, Kerala is well accessible by air, rail and road.

Air:

There are three airports in the state - Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi and Kozhikode. Thiruvananthapuram is also an international airport, connecting the state to many places in India and the world.

Thiruvananthapuram International Airport

• Domestic flights (direct): From/To: Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai
• International flights (direct): From/To: Colombo, Maldives, Dubai, Sharjah, Bahrain, Doha, Ras-al-Khaimah, Kuwait, Riyadh, Fujairah and Singapore.

Karipur Airport, Kozhikode

• Domestic flights (direct): From/To: Mumbai, Chennai, Coimbatore
• International flights (direct): From/To: Sharjah, Bahrain, Dubai, Doha, Ras-al-Khaimah, Kuwait, Riyadh, Fujairah

Cochin International Airport, Nedumbassery

• Domestic flights (direct): From/To: Mumbai, Chennai, Goa, Agathi, Bangalore
• International flights (direct): From/To: Sharjah, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Riyadh, Muscat

Rail:

There are around 200 railway stations in Kerala connecting most of the places in the state to places in the other parts of India and inside the state. Long-distance express trains connect important places in the state to places outside Kerala like Mumbai, New Delhi, Chennai and Kolkata.

Road:

An extensive network of metalled roads connects most of the places in the state. National highways 47, 17, and 49 connect Kerala with other parts of India.

Kerala at a Glance:

Kerala, a State in the Republic of India, has 14 districts or administrative divisions. The major cities are Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi and Kozhikode. There are three airports in the state which provide international and domestic connections.

Here is some quick information on Kerala which will be useful for travellers visiting the Kerala State.

Location : Southwestern tip of India.
Area : 38,863 sq km.
Population : 31,84,1374
Capital : Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum)
Language : Malayalam. English is widely spoken.
Religion : Hinduism, Christianity, Islam
Time : GMT +5:30
Currency : Indian Rupee
Climate : Tropical
Summer : February - May (24 - 330C)
Monsoon : June - August (22 - 280C), October - November
Winter : November - January (22 - 320C)

Climate of Kerala:

The climate of Kerala is tropical monsoon with seasonally excessive rainfall and hot summer. Kerala doesn’t have distinct seasons. The region experiences two rainy seasons: The Southwest monsoon from June to August and the Northeast monsoon during October / November. From January to February, Kerala experiences pleasant and cool weather conditions.

The summer months from March to May are marked by high temperature and humidity. March is the hottest month with a mean maximum temperature of about 33°C. During the peak of rainy season in June and July, the temperatures would hover around 28°C. Kerala is extremely humid due to the existence of Arabian Sea towards its West.

The diversity of Kerala's geographical features of the state has resulted in a corresponding diversity in climate. The High Ranges have a cool and bracing climate throughout the year, while the plains are hot and humid.

The Southwest monsoon (June to August) is the principal rainy season, when Kerala receives about 70% of its annual rainfall. This rainfall as percentage of annual rainfall decreases from North to South. On the other hand, the relatively less Northeast monsoon rainfall as percentage of annual rainfall increases from North to South. In the local language – Malayalam, rainfall during Southwest monsoon season is known as Edavapathi while that of Northeast monsoon season is known as Thulavarsham.

The average level of annual rainfall is quite high when compared to other Indian states.

Experience in Kerala:

God's Own Country offers splendid options to make your holidays an experience of a lifetime. Here we present the specialties of this land for travelers to explore and experience.

Pooram:

Poorams, the annual festivals at the temples of North Kerala are splendid celebrations which follow the harvest season. Spectacular elephant pageantry and traditional percussion ensembles are the highlights of pooram festivals. Thrissur Pooram, the most popular among them has been attracting travelers from various parts of the world for the past several years. Other important poorams include the Arattupuzha Pooram, Peruvanam Pooram, Nenmara Vallangi Vela, Uthralikkavu Pooram, Pariyanampetta Pooram and Chinakkathoor Pooram.

Houseboat Cruise in Alappuzha, Kottayam and Eranakulam:

Cruise through Kerala in a houseboat!

Present day houseboats are huge, slow moving exotic barges used for leisure trips, and are in fact reworked version of kettuvallams of olden times. The original kettuvallams were used to carry tons of rice and spices. A standard kettuvallam can hold up to 30 tons from Kuttanad to the Kochi port.

The kettuvallam or ‘boat with knots’ was so called because the entire boat was held together with coir knots only. Not even a single nail is used during the construction of the boat.. The boat is made of planks of jack-wood joined together with coir. This is then coated with a caustic black resin made from boiled cashew kernels. With careful maintenance, a kettuvallam can last for generations.

A portion of the kettuvallam was covered with bamboo and coir to serve as a restroom and kitchen for the crew. Meals would be cooked onboard and supplemented with freshly cooked fish from the backwaters.

When the modern trucks replaced this system of transport, some one found a new way that would keep these boats, almost all of which were more than 100 years old, in the market. By constructing special rooms to accommodate travelers, these boats cruised forward from near-extinction to enjoy their present great popularity.

Now these are a familiar sight on the backwaters and in Alappuzha alone, there are as many as 500 houseboats.

While converting kettuvallams into houseboats, care is taken to use only natural products. Bamboo mats, sticks and wood of the areca nut tree are used for roofing, coir mats and wooden planks for the flooring and wood of coconut trees and coir for beds. For lighting though, solar panels are used.

Today, the houseboats have all the creature comforts of a good hotel including furnished bedrooms, modern toilets, cozy living rooms, a kitchen and even a balcony for angling. Parts of the curved roof of wood or plaited palm open out to provide shade and allow uninterrupted views. While most boats are poled by local oarsmen, some are powered by a 40 HP engine. Boat-trains – formed by joining two or more houseboats together are also used by large groups of sightseers.

What is truly magical about a houseboat ride is the breathtaking view of the untouched and otherwise inaccessible rural Kerala that it offers, while you float! Now, wouldn’t that be something?

Ayurveda - harmony of body, mind and soul:

Ayurveda evolved around 600 BC in India. This new system of medicine stressed on the prevention of body ailments in addition to curing them. Followed by the Dravidians and Aryans alike, Ayurveda has been practised ever since. Today, it's a unique, indispensable branch of medicine - a complete naturalistic system that depends on the diagnosis of your body's humours - vata, pitta and kapha - to achieve the right balance.

Ayurveda believes in the treatment of not just the affected part, but the individual as a whole. Making it the natural way to refresh you, eliminate all toxic imbalances from the body and thus regain resistance and good health.

Kerala, the land of Ayurveda

Kerala's equable climate, natural abundance of forests (with a wealth of herbs and medicinal plants), and the cool monsoon season (June to July and October to November) are best suited for Ayurveda's curative and restorative packages.

In fact, today, Kerala is the only State in India which practises this system of medicine with absolute dedication.

Monsoon, the ideal time for rejuvenation

Traditional texts reveal that the monsoon is the best season for rejuvenation programmes. The atmosphere remains dust-free and cool, opening the pores of the body to the maximum, making it most receptive to herbal oils and therapy.

Rejuvenation Therapy (Rasayana Chikitsa)

Therapeutic Programmes

Ayurveda Hospitals

Yoga Centres

Kathakali:

Kerala owes its transnational fame to this nearly 300 years old classical dance form which combines facets of ballet, opera, masque and the pantomime. It is said to have evolved from other performing arts like Kootiyattam, Krishnanattam and Kalarippayattu. Kathakali explicates ideas and stories from the Indian epics and Puranas.

Presented in the temple precincts after dusk falls, Kathakali is heralded by the Kelikottu or the beating of drums and to the accompaniment of the Chengila (gong). The riches of a happy blending of colour, expressions, music, drama and dance are unparallelled in any other art form.

Kathakali Make-up:

Costume is elaborate with the face painted up. Great importance is laid on the Vesham or make-up which are of five types - Pacha, Kathi, Thadi, Kari and Minukku.

The pomp and magnificence of Kathakali is partly due to its décor, part of which is the kireetam or huge headgear and the kanchukam the over sized jackets, and a long skirt worn over a thick padding of cushions. The identity of the actor is completely mutilated to create a super human being of larger-than-life proportion.

Pacha (Green):

Pacha Vehsam or the green make-up portray noble protagonists.

Kathi (Knife):

Kathi Vesham portrays villainous characters.

Thadi (Beard):

There are three types of bearded or Thadi Veshams.

"Vella Thadi" or White beard for superhuman monkeys like Hanuman.
"Chuvanna Thadi" or Red beard meant for evil characters.
"Karutha Thadi" or Black beard for the hunter.

Kari(Black):

Kari Vesham is used for she-demons.

Minukku (Prettying Up):

The "Minukku Vesham" is used for female characters and sages.

Mudra:

Mudra is a stylized sign language used to depict an idea, a situation or a state of being. A Kathakali actor enacts his ideas through mudras. For this the actor follows a systematic sign language based on Hastalakshana Deepika, a treatise on the language of hand gestures.

Kathakali Music:

Kathakali orchestra is formed of two varieties of drums - the maddalam and chenda; the chengila which is a bell metal gong and the ilathalam or cymbals.

Kathakali Training:

Students of Kathakali have to undergo rigorous training replete with oil massages and separate exercises for eyes, lips, cheeks, mouth and neck. Abhinaya or expression is of prime importance as is nritya or dance and geetham or singing.

Together with highly evocative facial expressions, the mudras and the music both vocal and instrumental, Kathakali unfolds stories from a bygone era in a lofty style reminiscent of the Greek plays. Kerala Kalamandalam is the prominent institution imparting Kathakali training in the traditional way.

Theyyam:

Theyyam also known as Kaliyattam, is a ritual dance popular in North Kerala or the erstwhile Kolathunadu. Theyyam incorporates dance, mime and music and enshrines the rudiments of ancient tribal cultures which attached great importance to the worship of heroes and the spirits of ancestors. Of the over 400 Theyyams performed, the most spectacular ones are those of Raktha Chamundi, Kari Chamundi, Muchilottu Bhagavathi, Wayanadu Kulaveni, Gulikan and Pottan. These are performed in front of shrines, sans stage or curtains, by persons belonging to the Vannan, Malayan and other related castes.

Thudangal (the beginning) and Thottam (the invocation) are the introductory rituals of the Theyyam or the Thira, as it is known in south Malabar. The headgear and other ornamental decorations are spectacular in sheer size and appearance. Karivalloor, Nileswaram, Kurumathoor, Cherukunnu, Ezhom and Kunnathoorpadi in North Malabarare places where Theyyams are performed annually from December to April. At theParassinikadavu Sri Muthappan Temple in Kannur, Theyyam is preformed on all days.

Kalarippayattu:

Kalarippayattu, considered to be the mother of all martial art forms in the world, is a priceless asset to Kerala's heritage. An intricate blend of physical prowess, mindset, martial techniques and indigenous medical system, this form of armed, close quarter, hand-to-hand combat is unique to this State.

Kalarippayattu is both an art and a science, which has the ability to transform its practitioners to become adept in fighting techniques as in treatment modes.

Kalari means arena and Payat means skill training. This unique martial art form is taught in two styles; Northern and Southern, which were formulated by masters of yore. Kalarichikilsa, a medicinal system specialising in the treatment of wounds and bruises has its roots in Ayurveda.

The North Malabar region of Kerala is renowned for its legendary warriors whose heroic deeds are praised in the northern ballads, popularly known as Vadakkan Pattukal.

Jewelery in Kerala:

From time immemorial, people of Kerala have been fascinated by the charm of ornaments, especially in gold and silver. Majority of the traditional ornaments here are simple, bright and elegant designs making them suitable for all occasions. Jewels are often gifted as a token of love.

Gold is considered as an auspicious metal and Keralites have a special love forornaments in gold. One can find several jewellery stores selling traditional as well as most modern designs in all medium and big towns.

Elephants in Kerala:

Impressive elephant pageantry is an important part of the famous festivals of Kerala. Pachyderms are considered auspicious in the State. Elephants have an important role in the cultural life of Kerala. There is hardly any place in the world where elephants are loved, revered and groomed like Kerala. Several temples in Kerala groom one or more elephants for ritualistic purposes.

In olden times a ‘pet elephant’ was quite common in aristocratic families. Since elephants are inevitable for the festivals of Kerala, tamed ones are reared at several temples. In major temples pachyderms are also needed for some daily rituals.

Elephants are titled in Kerala as the State animal and treated with much respect.

The Guruvayoor temple in the Thrissur district of Kerala runs an elephant sanctuary where elephants donated to the temple by devotees are housed. Punnathoorkotta, the centre, attracts large number of pachyderm lovers and tourists.

Travellers to Kerala can also visit Kodanad and Konni, two villages where baby elephants are domesticated.

Tourist Places in Kerala - tourist place in kerala

There are many places of visit in Kerala like:

Thiruvananthapuram:

The capital of Kerala lies on the southwest coast of India. The city extends from latitude 8°29' N to longitude 76°59' E. The place is well connected to most of the other major cities of India through rail, road, and air network. The capital city of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram is a district surrounded by the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats. During the British period and till a few years ago, it was known as Trivandrum, a name that suited the English to pronounce. A quiet, neat and clean city, it has a rich cultural heritage too.

Kochi:

Kochi is a busy port city in Kerala. In ancient times most of the foreign sea travelers had been to Kochi and foreign influence is till date found in their lifestyles and architecture. The Vembanad Kayal, Kerala's largest lake that spreads full bosomed and silver gray in the sultry sun is in Kochi. In Kochi (Cochin), dawn is not often a thing of breathtaking beauty, but just a careless smear of tinted light where sea and sky unite. Daybreak is full of indeterminate promise. A slow lividness at the mist-obscured harbor mouth meets the swelling untamed surge of the ocean. Cargo-laden barges and vallams or country boats move, ponderously slow, over the sprawling vastness of the Vembanad Kayal, Kerala's largest lake that spreads full bosomed and silver gray in the sultry sun.

Kottayam:

The word Kottayam is a composition of the words Kotta (meaning fort) and Akkam (meaning inside). Kottayam is one of the exotic backwaters sites attracting tourists throughout the year. Being a mountainous region with scenic landscapes, backwaters, bird sanctuaries, temples and churches make this a place of tourist attraction. Lying below the sea level, some of its nearby places are also a treat to the eyes.

Kovalam:

Kovalam, meaning "a groove of coconut trees," is just 10 km from the state capital of Kerala- Thiruvananthapuram. Kovalam is actually a combination of three small beaches. Among these, the southernmost beach, named Lighthouse Beach, is the most frequented beach in Kovalam. Earlier this beach of Kovalam was an anglers' paradise. It still has some small villages, just a few kilometres away, which belong to the fishing community. Gradually, this beach of Kovalam has been transformed to a tourist spot of great interest.

Kayamkulam:

Kayamkulam is a small village on the western coast of India in the state of Kerala. Washed by the waters of the Arabian Sea, the place is almost equidistant from Alleppey and Quilon, both of which connect the Kerala backwaters.

Kozhikode/Calicut:

Calicut or Kozhikode is situated in the south Indian state of Kerala on the southwest coast of the Arabian Sea. The district extends from latitude 11°15' N to 75°49' E. Basking in the idyllic setting of the serene Arabian Sea on the west and mesmeric peaks of the Wayanad hills on the east, this district has all the required ingredients to fascinate a tourist.

Palakkad:

The tourist destination of Palakkad, known as the granary of Kerala, is a land of valleys, hillocks, rivers, forests, mountain streams, dams and irrigation projects. Situated at the foot of the Western Ghats, Palakkad is the gateway to Kerala from the north. Palakkad derives its name from the Malayalam words Pala (the Alsteria Scholaris tree) and Kadu (forest), which goes to prove that this place was once a beautiful stretch of forests covered with the sweet-scented flowers of the Pala tree.

Munnar:

Munnar is a small hill station set amongst the Kannan Devan hills. It is famous for its lush green surroundings, lakes, reservoirs, forests, and tea estates. The quiet environs of Munnar attract the traveler to relax in the lap of Mother Nature. Munnar is one of the highest tea estates in the world.

Alappuzha:

Alappuzha (Alleppey) is one of the exotic backwater sites of India's southern state Kerala. Washed by the Arabian Sea, interlocked by a number of canals and bridges, this tiny marketplace is also famous for its Nehru Trophy boat race or the snake boat race is held every year. The temperature ranges from 22 to 35°C in summer and 20 to 32°C during winters.

Kumarakom:

This group of islands in Vembanad Lake attracts thee tourists by the beauty of the swaying palm trees, green paddy fields, waterways. The village of Kumarakom is a cluster of little islands on the Vembanad Lake, and is part of the Kuttanad region. The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is spread across 14 acres is a favourite haunt of migratory birds and an ornithologist's paradise. Egrets, darters, herons, teal, waterfowl, cuckoo, wild duck and migratory birds like the Siberian stork that live in flocks, in Kumarakom, are a fascination for visitors. The best way to watch the birds of the Kumarakom sanctuary is a boat trip round the islands.

Kannur:

Cannanore or more appropriately Kannur as it is known today is a place with a rich history right from the time of the Aryan migration. The word Kannur may have evolved from a village named Kannathur around which the modern town of Kannur grew. Or according to some it is a combination of Kannan (Lord Krishna), a deity in the Hindu pantheon and Ur meaning a place or an abode.

Ponmudi:

A mere one and a half hour's road journey separates the beaches of Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum) from the invigorating climate of Ponmudi Hills. The name Ponmudi, a hill station so close to the sea, in Malayalam means golden crown.

Wayanad:

Wayanad is situated in an elevated picturesque mountainous plateau in Western Ghats.

Thekkadi:

Thekkadi - The very sound of the name conjures up images of elephants, unending chains of hill and spice scented plantations.

Kollam/Quilon:

Quilon (also Kollam) is situated in the southwest corner of India in the state of Kerala. The district is encircled by Alappuzha in the north, Pathanamthitta in the northeast, Thiruvananthapuram in the south, Tirunelveli (Tamil Nadu) in the east, and the Arabian Sea in the west. It extends latitude 9°28' and longitude 76°17' north.

Varkala:

Varkala is one of the famous beaches in South India. The Papanasam beach in Varkala is known for its mineral springs and rocky cliffs. A relatively new destination in Kerala, Varkala is for those who prefer to do absolutely nothing while holidaying. Due to a spillover resulting from the over saturation of Kovalam, foreigners started coming to the town about six years ago. The trend that started as a trickle became a steady flow within two years. Today, there is a constant stream of visitors.

Nilambur:

Nilambur is a beautiful town in the Malappuram district situated on the banks of the Chaliyar River. It is at a distance of about 70 km from Calicut and 100 km from Ooty (Uddagamandalam). Nilambur is a small sleepy town has a surprise in store for its visitors.

Amritapuri Ashram:

At the Mata Amritanandamayi Math in Amritapuri near Quilon, South Kerala, there is a beautiful temple that houses more than seven hundred full-time residents. The day dawns early in Amritapuri Ashram (monastery) located in the backwaters of Kerala.

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Ernakulam Town | Ernakulam Map | Ernakulam Travel

Ernakulam refers to the eastern part of the mainland of Kochi city in Kerala, India. Ernakulam is the most urban part of Kochi and has lent its name to Ernakulam District. The Office of the Corporation of Cochin, and the Kerala High Court are situated here. The name 'Ernakulam' is derived from the name of a very famous temple of Lord Shiva called the Ernakulathappan Temple. It is also said that the word Ernakulam was drawn from Malayalam words 'Ere naal Kulam', which mean 'Pond for a long time'. Ernakulam is the commercial capital of the state of Kerala.

Kochi, the commercial and industrial capital of Kerala, has one of the finest natural harbours in the world. Ancient mariners from Arabia, China, Holland, Britain and Portugal have all left their mark on this beautiful island city.

One of the finest natural harbours on the Arabian Sea coast, Kochi, earlier known as Cochin has been a port of call for foreign traders from early times. Its cosmopolitan character is reflected in the buildings and structures representing different regions of the world. A city of peninsulas and islands, today it is Kerala's commercial hub.

Kerala's prime tourist destination, it spreads across islands and promontories in a stunning location between the Arabian Sea and Backwaters. Its main sections: modern Ernakulam in the east and the old districts of Mattancherry and Fort Cochin on a peninsula in the west are linked by a complex system of ferries.

How to Reach Ernakulam:

Telephone access code:

+91-484

Air:

International airport at Nedumbassery (32 km from the town)

Airline offices:

Air India, MG Road Ph: 2380700 2351295

Indian Airlines, DH Road Ph: 2370238/2353826

Jet Airways, Atlantis, MG Road Ph: 2369879

Oman Air (RL Travels), Atlantis, MG Road Ph: 2357093

Cathay Pacific (Spencer & Co. Ltd.), MG Road Ph: 2362064

Saudi Arabian Airlines (Arafat Travels), MG Road Ph: 2352689

Singapore Airlines (Aviation Travels), MG Road Ph: 2358127

British Airways (Nijhawon Travels), MG Road Ph: 2364867

Kuwait Airways (National Travels), MG Road Ph: 2359133

Air Sahara Ph: 2365508

Srilankan Airlines Ph: 2361263

Emirates Ph: 2382860 Fax: 2384612

Qatar Airways Ph: 2381063

Rail:

Ernakulam is a major railhead of the Southern Railway Main station: Ernakulam Junction

Ph: 131 Other stations: Ernakulam Town Ph: 2390920; Kochi Harbour Terminus Ph: 2666001

Road:

The KSRTC Central Bus Station is near the Junction Railway Station Ph: 2372033. Private buses operate from High Court Junction, Railway Station and Kaloor Junction Tamil Nadu Road Transport bus station Ph: 2372616

Inter-State private bus services to Bangalore, Coimbatore, Mangalore, Chennai and Madurai: Indira Travels, near Jos Junction Ph: 2360693 Yesbee Travels, near Jos Junction Ph: 2375080 Princy Tours, Opp. Sealord Hotel Ph: 2354712 Sharma Transports, Grand Hotel Ph: 2350712 Ashirwad Travels, Jos Junction Ph: 2367709

Ferry Services: There are two ferry stations in Ernakulam. The main Boat Jetty is 1 km from the Junction Railway Station and the other is near the High Court.

Ferry timings (From the main boat jetty):

Vypeen : Frequent services (1/2 hour journey)

Mattancherry : Daily 6 ferries (1/2 hour journey) at 0910, 0940, 1100, 1400, 1520, 1740 hrs

Fort Kochi : Daily 30 services (20 minute journey). First trip at 0600 hrs and the last at 2110 hrs

Varapuzha : Daily 6 boats (2 hour journey)

Willingdon Island : Frequent services (15 minute journey)

Tourist Information Office:

Tourist Information Officer, Dept. of Tourism, Ph: 2360502, Fort Kochi Ph: 2216654

Govt. of India Tourist Office, Willingdon Island, Ph: 2668352 / 1913

Airport Information Counter, Dept. of Tourism, Kerala, Ph: 2610115, Ext. 2105

Tourist Reception Centre - KTDC, Shanmughom Rd., Ph: 2353234, 2382199

DTPC Tourist Information Centre, Old Collectorate Bldg., Park Avenue, Ph: 2367334/2383988

Tourist Desk, Main Boat Jetty, Ph: 2371761

Entertainment in Ernakulam:

There are over twenty cinema halls that screen movies in Malayalam, Tamil, English and Hindi. A film festival, known as the Cochin International Film Festival (CIFF), is held in the city every year.

Media:

Major Malayalam newspapers published in Kochi include Malayala Manorama, Mathrubhumi, Madhyamam, Deshabhimani, Deepika, Kerala Kaumudi and Veekshanam.

Popular English newspapers include The Hindu, The New Indian Express and The Pioneer. A number of evening papers are also published from the city.

Newspapers in other regional languages like Hindi, Kannada, Tamil and Telugu are also sold in large numbers.

Being the seat of the Cochin Stock Exchange, a number of financial publications are also published in the city. These include The Economic Times, Business Line, The Business Standard and The Financial Express.

Prominent magazines and religious publications like the Sathyadeepam, The Week and Vanitha are also published from the city.

Television:

Television stations in Kochi include Ernakulam Cable Television, Asianet Cable Vision, Indiavision, Kairali TV, Jeevan TV, Amrita TV, JaiHind TV and Manorama News. Satellite television services are available through Doordarshan Direct Plus, Dish TV and Tata Sky.

Radio:

All India Radio has two FM stations in the city, operating at 102.3 MHz and 107.5 MHz. Private FM radio stations are Club FM 94.3, Radio Mango 91.9 which plays music 24 hours a day, and 93.5 S FM. Private satellite radios such as WorldSpace, are also available.

Telephone

Ernakulam has the highest density of telephones in India (based on its population). Telephony services are provided by various players like Airtel, Idea cellular, Vodafone, Reliance Infocomm, Tata Indicom and the government owned BSNL.

Places To Stay - Ernakulam (Kochi)

• Choice Sea Side Hotel, Cantonment.
• Centaur Tourist Home, M A Road.
• Kamala International, S M Road.
• Kavitha Tourish Home, S N Park.
• Motel Aram, Kalliassery.
• Omars Inn, Station Road.
• Yatri Nivas (KTDC), Near Police Club.
• Bharat Hotel, Ernakulam.
• Casino Hotel, Willingdon Island.
• Dwaraka Hotel, Ernakulam.
• Ganam Hotel, Ernakulam.
• Grand Hotel, Ernakulam.

Historic Zone of Ernakulam:

Inside Ernakulam - Fort Kochi:

Access: Backwater ferry / bus / auto rickshaw

Loafer’s Corner / Princess Street:

One of the earliest streets to be constructed in Fort Kochi, Princess Street with its European style residences still retains its old world charm. The best view of this quaint street can be had from Loafer’s Corner, the traditional meeting place and hangout of the jovial fun loving people of the area.

Parade Ground:

The four acre Parade Ground was where once the Portuguese, the Dutch and the British colonists conducted their military parades and drills. The buildings around the ground housed their defence establishments. Today, the largest open ground in Fort Kochi, the Parade Ground is a sports arena.

St. Francis Church:

Built in 1503 by Portuguese Franciscan friars, this is India’s oldest European church. This was initially built of timber and later reconstructed in stone masonry. It was restored in 1779 by the Protestant Dutch, converted to an Anglican church 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.

Bastion Bungalow:

Built in the Indo-European style way back in 1667, the Bungalow gets its name from its location on the site of the Stromberg Bastion of the old Dutch Fort. The building blends beautifully into the circular structure of the bastion, has a tiled roof and a typical first floor verandah in wood along its front portion. Though it has been said that a network of secret tunnels runs beneath the bungalow, none have been found. Today, the Bungalow is the official residence of the Sub Collector.

Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace) (Open 1000 - 1700 hrs. Closed on Fridays):

Built by the Portuguese in 1557 and presented to Raja Veera Kerala Varma of Kochi, the palace was renovated in 1663 by the Dutch. On display here are beautiful murals depicting scenes from the epics, Ramayana and Mahabharata, and some of the Puranic Hindu legends. The palace also houses Dutch maps of old Kochi, royal palanquins, coronation robes of former maharajas of Kochi as well as period furniture. The three dimensional portraits of the Maharajas are also noteworthy.

Synagogue (Open 1000 - 1200 hrs; 1500 -1700 hrs. Closed on Saturdays and Jewish holidays):

Constructed in 1568, this is the oldest synagogue in the Commonwealth. Destroyed in a shelling during the Portuguese raid in 1662, it was rebuilt two years later by the Dutch. Known for mid 18th century hand painted, willow patterned floor tiles from Canton in China, a clock tower, Hebrew inscriptions on stone slabs, great scrolls of the Old Testament, ancient scripts on copper plates etc.

Jew Town:

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

The Hill Palace Museum:

The Hill Palace, the official residence of the Kochi royal family, is today the largest archaeological museum in Kerala. Built in 1865, the palace complex consists of 49 buildings in the tr tional architectural style of Kerala, sprawled over 52 acres of beautifully landscaped terraced land which houses a deer park and facilities for horse riding. Numerous species of flora including rare medicinal plants grow here. On display in the full-fledged Ethno-archaeological museum are oil-paintings, murals, sculptures in stone and manuscripts, inscriptions, coins, belongings of the Kochi royal family and royal furniture including the simhasana (throne).

Also exhibited are over 200 antique pieces of pottery and ceramic vases from Japan and China, Kudakkallu (tomb stone), Thoppikkallu (hood stone), menhirs, granite, laterite memorials, rock cut weapons from the stone ages, wooden temple models, plaster cast models of objects from Mohanjodaro and Harappa of the Indus Valley Civilisation. The museum also houses a gallery of contemporary art.

Events

Utsavam at Mahadeva Temple:

Highlights: Ritual procession, Kathakali, Classical music recitals, Ashtami (November)

Utsavam at Sree Poornathrayeesa Temple:

Highlights: Kanikka edal (offerings placed in a golden pot), Kathakali, Chakyarkoothu, Ottanthullal, Music concerts (December)

Mahotsavam at Mahadeva Temple:

Highlights: Deepakazhcha, illumination of traditional lamps, Ottamthullal, Chakyarkoothu, Kurathiyattam, Elephants pageants (December)

Tourism Week Celebration:

A secular festival that brings together the thirteen communities living in Kochi. Highlights: Food festival, Procession of theme floats, Gajamela (elephant pageants), Music concerts, Jalamela (water fiestas), Cultural programmes, Boat race (December)

Indira Gandhi Boat Race on the Kochi backwaters. (December)

Utsavam at Siva Temple:

Highlights: Seeveli, Panchavadyam, Pakalpooram, Kathakali, Music concerts, Arattu (January)

International Contemporary Dance Festival:

Assemblage of artistes from India, Europe and the Far East. (January)

Gramam:

An entire Kerala village is recreated during this ten day long festival. Highlights: Arts and crafts fair, Kathakali, Thiruvathirakali, Mohiniyattom, Oppana, Kalaripayattu, Sarpapattu, Theyyam, Panchavadyam, Chakyarkoothu, Ottanthullal (February)

Utsavam at Sree Rajarajeswari Temple:

Highlights: Arattu, Makamthozhal (special rite)-Chottanikkara Makam, Pooram on the eighth day, Grand fireworks, Art forms, Cultural performances (February)

Kakkoor Kalavayal:

A traditional post harvest festival of the peasants of Kakkoor. Highlights: Exhibition of agricultural products, implements, and other traditional crafts, Folk arts, Music concerts, Elephant processions, Bullock race (March)

Bharani festival at Sree Kurumba Bhagavathy Temple:

Highlights: Cultural programmes, Devotional rites (April)

Athachamayam:

Marks the beginning of the Onam festival. Highlights: Elephant procession, Colourful floats, Musical ensembles, Ritual and folk art forms (September)

Aluva Sivarathri at Siva Temple:

Highlights: Night long reading of the puranas, Rural trade fair, Cultural programmes, Vavubali (ritual in honour of the forefathers) at dawn (March)

Leisure Zone in Ernakulam:

The United Club:

Once upon a time one of the four elite clubs of the British in Kochi, the United Club today serves two roles - as classroom for the nearby St. Francis Primary School by day and as card room for the current members by evening. Until 1907, the building housed the offices of the Fort Kochi Muncipality.

The Cochin Club:

The club, with its impressive library and collection of sporting trophies, is housed in a beautifully landscaped park. In the early 1900s, when the club had just become operational, admission was restricted to the British and to men only. Today, though the club retains its traditional English ambience, its rules are more liberal and the membership of 250 includes women as well. Strangely enough, alcohol is not served on the premises.

Cherai Beach:

This lovely beach bordering Vypeen island is ideal for swimming. Dolphins are occasionally seen here. A typical Kerala village with paddy fields and coconut groves nearby is an added attraction.

Bolgatty Island:

This island is famous for its palace of the same name. The Bolgatty 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 small golf course and special honeymoon cottages.

Willingdon Island:

Named after Lord Willingdon, a former British Viceroy of India, this man-made island is surrounded by beautiful backwaters. The island is the site of the city's best hotels and trading centres, the Port Trust and the headquarters of the southern naval command.

Kodanad:

Kodanad, set on the southern banks of the Periyar river amid the beautiful high ranges near Perumbavoor, is one of the largest elephant training centres of Kerala. Earlier elephants captured from the Malayatoor forests (the forests in the east and north of Kodanad) were trained here. Since the introduction of a ban to elephant capture Kodanad has been reduced to a training centre. The famous Malayatoor Church is near Kodanad.

Kumbalangi:

Kumbalangi Integrated Tourism Village project is a unique initiative to transform the tiny island as a model fishing village and tourism spot. Here at the Kumbalangi Tourism Village one can fully savour a variety of natural splendours, and paramount to a model tourist village the outstanding ecological balance of the location. The village, the first of its kind in the country is located near the port city of Kochi in Ernakulam District. The model village is a veritable treat to its visitors with the famous Chinese fishing nets and many other sights to savour.

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