
Kovalam Beach Kovalam beach
is a sheltered natural bay with cool soothing palms and gentle waves. It is located just 10 Kms from the capital city of Thiruvananthapuram.
It is the foremost tourist attraction of the region. True to its name, which means a grove of coconut trees, the palm fringed
bays of Kovalam Beach, awash with the blue waters of the Arabian Sea and endless stretches of white sands seems a fair representation
of heaven.
Location:
Just 16 km from Thiruvananthapuram city, South Kerala.
Best
time to visit: September
to March, though it is an all year-round destination.
Kovalam is an
internationally renowned beach with three adjacent crescent beaches. It has been a favourite haunt of tourists, especially
Europeans, since the 1930s. A massive rocky promontory on the beach has created a beautiful bay of calm waters ideal for sea
bathing. The leisure options
at this beach are plenty and diverse. Sunbathing, swimming, herbal body toning massages, special cultural programmes and catamaran
cruising are some of them. The tropical sun acts so fast that one can see the faint blush of coppery tan on the skin in a
matter of minutes. Life on the beach begins late in the day and carries on well into the night. The beach complex includes
a string of budget cottages, Ayurvedic health resorts, convention facilities, shopping zones, swimming pools, Yoga and Ayurvedic
massage centres. Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala, is just 16 km away from Kovalam and getting there is no hassle.
But if you are on holiday it is better to stay in Kovalam and visit the city. Thiruvananthapuram has interesting places to
see like the Napier Museum, the Sri Chitra Art Gallery, the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Ponmudi hill station etc. SMSM Institute,
a State owned handicrafts emporium, is the ideal place to pick up ethnic curios and other articles.To know more about the crafts on sale here see Treasure Chest from the
Archives dated 14 January '99 to 15 July '99.
Getting there: Nearest railway station: Thiruvananthapuram Central, about 16 km. Nearest airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, about
10 km. |
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Cherai Beach Location: Near Vypeen Island accessible by boat. 30 minutes, journey from
Ernakulam.The lovely beach bordering the Vypeen
Island is ideal for swimming. The sea on the Western side and the backwaters on the East give this upcoming tourist destination
a uniqueness which can be found only in Kerala. Thick coconut groves and Chinese fishing nets on the waterfront are added
attractions. Getting there: Nearest railway station: Ernakulam
Junction, about one km from the main boat jetty. Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport,
about 20 km from Ernakulam town. |

Kappad Beach Kappad beach, locally known as Kappadkadavu is a beautiful rock studded beach. It has a glorious past because Kappad
beach is the very sight where Vasco da Gama, the Portuguese explorer, landed on 27th May 1498, which made him the first European
to sail across the Arabian Sea. Witness this historic sights during your visit while lazing around in the tranquil beach and
hum to the music of the waves splashing about. |
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Muzhappilangad Beach Muzhappilangad beach has something unique that adds to its credit; being one among the few largest of Kerala beaches,
it is the only drive-in beach in the whole of the nation. One can take a stroll along its unending stretch of shore or bring
one's family for a pulsating drive in the beach, splashing water all through. A large accumulated mass of rock prevents the
heavy water currents that may hit the shore, which gives rise to a shallow pool where it is safe for the tourists to get involved
in swimming and other water entertainments. |
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Payyambalam Beach Situated away from the normal hustle and bustle, Payyambalam beach is a perfect destination for a
weary mind to relax and refresh, where one comes face to face with true peace of mind. Quiet, secluded, this beautiful stretch
of sand and surf is the best locale for a relaxed evening. The Payyambalam beach is a popular picnic spot of the local people
and holds much potential for development into a tourist resort.
Location: 2 km from Kannur town, Kannur district, North Kerala.Quiet, secluded, this beautiful stretch of sand
and surf is the best locale for a relaxed evening. The Payyambalam beach is a popular picnic spot of the local people and
holds much potential for development into a tourist resort.The rest of the land - Kannur - is equally fascinating to explore. Being the cradle of ageless folk arts
like Theyyam and folk music, Kannur has always remained a land of ageless charms.However, if you decide to hide away at this beach destination, your stay should be arranged
in the town 2 km away. Comfortable accommodation is available.
Getting there: National Highway 17 passes through Kannur. Nearest railway station: Kannur, about 2 km. Nearest airport: Karipur
International Airport, Kozhikode, 93 km to the South. |
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Varkala Beach Varkala beach combines a religious ambience with a merry atmosphere to provide a unique experience
to pilgrims and tourists alike. The nearby mineral springs at the Varkala beach are said to possess medicinal properties and
you too can take a dip or drink from the beautiful springs. Watch the bewitching sunset from the shore of the Varkala Beach
for a fulfilling vacation. Location: 51
km North of Thiruvananthapuram city and 37 km South of Kollam, Thiruvananthapuram district, South Kerala. Attractions:
Beach, mineral watersprings, the Sivagiri Mutt and a 2000-yea- old Vishnu Temple.
Varkala, a calm and quiet hamlet,
lies on the outskirts of Thiruvananthapuram district. It has several places of tourist interests like a beautiful beach, a
2000-year-old Vishnu Temple and the ashramam- Sivagiri Mutt a little distance from the beach. At the serene Varkala beach
is a quiet sea resort rich in mineral water springs. A dip in the holy waters at this beach is believed to purge the body
of impurities and the soul of all sins; hence the name 'Papanasam beach'. A two thousand year old shrine the Janardhanaswamy
Temple stands on the cliffs overlooking the beach, a short distance away. The Sivagiri Mutt, founded by the great Hindu reformer
and Philosopher Sree Narayana Guru (1856 - 1928) is also close by. The Samadhi (the final resting place) of the Guru here
attracts thousands of devotees every year during the Sivagiri Pilgrimage days - 30th December to 1st January. Sree Narayana
Guru propagated the ideology: "one caste, one religion and one god", in a society torn by the taboos
of caste system. Varkala offers excellent accommodation facilities for tourists and is fast becoming a popular health resort
with many Ayurvedic massage centres. Getting there: Nearest railway station: Varkala, 3 km away. Nearest airport:
Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, nearly 57 km away. | ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Bekal Fort Beach
Beaches
Alappuzha Beach Alappuzha beach is quite a popular
tourist spot, known to provide relaxation. The pier, which extends into the sea here, is around 140 years old. Blessed with
nature's green beauties such as lagoons, vast lakes and numerous fresh water rivers, it is a natural marvellous and spectacular.
The long sandy beach is decorated with dense palm groves. The old lighthouse nearby adds to the beauty of the beach. Beypore BeachLocated at the mouth of the River Chaliyar, the Beypore beach will engulf
you in the web of peace and tranquillity as you enjoy the dreamlike vistas in front of you. Gaze into the huge expanse of
the Arabian Sea and be lulled to sleep by the gentle sound of waves as you let go of yourself in the fairytale environs of
the Beypore Beach. Walk bare feet on the stone bridge that makes a pathway into the sea for nearly 2 kms and bask in the glorious
sunshine. Dharmadam BeachDharmadam beach is located 17 km from
Kannur, this small 5 acre beautiful island is dotted with coconut palms and green bushes. The island is about 100 metres from
the mainland of Dharmadam and a special permission is required to enter this privately owned island. Once you enter the beach,
you will be spellbound with the works of nature. What one needs to do over here is to set oneself free in the lap of mother
earth. Ezhimala BeachEzhimala beach is a major tourist attraction.
The charming view of this serene and secluded beach is enticing. It is also known for the rare view of Dolphin jumping. Carved
stone pillars, an ancient burial chamber and an ancient cave can be seen at the foot of the hills. The combination of high
hills and sandy beaches, make Ezhimala a beautiful picnic spot. Enjoy doing nothing while your body soaks in the fragrance
of this beach. Fort Kochi BeachFort Kochi beach is a favourite
hunt for tourists. Enclosed by coconut palms and dense bushes, it is a viewer's delight. Its historic essence has not been
overlooked or forgotten by the overlapping waves of the sea and have not erased the colourful past associated with the beach.
It is also undoubtedly one of the best locations to spend and evening amidst nature's finest creations. Kappad BeachKappad beach, locally known as Kappadkadavu is a beautiful rock studded
beach. It has a glorious past because Kappad beach is the very sight where Vasco da Gama, the Portuguese explorer, landed
on 27th May 1498, which made him the first European to sail across the Arabian Sea. Witness this historic sights during your
visit while lazing around in the tranquil beach and hum to the music of the waves splashing about. Kovalam
BeachKovalam beach is a sheltered natural bay with cool soothing palms and gentle waves. It
is located just 10 Kms from the capital city of Thiruvananthapuram. It is the foremost tourist attraction of the region. True
to its name, which means a grove of coconut trees, the palm fringed bays of Kovalam Beach, awash with the blue waters of the
Arabian Sea and endless stretches of white sands seems a fair representation of heaven. Muzhappilangad
BeachMuzhappilangad beach has something unique that adds to its credit; being one among the
few largest of Kerala beaches, it is the only drive-in beach in the whole of the nation. One can take a stroll along its unending
stretch of shore or bring one's family for a pulsating drive in the beach, splashing water all through. A large accumulated
mass of rock prevents the heavy water currents that may hit the shore, which gives rise to a shallow pool where it is safe
for the tourists to get involved in swimming and other water entertainments. Payyambalam
Beach Situated away from the normal hustle and bustle, Payyambalam beach is a perfect
destination for a weary mind to relax and refresh, where one comes face to face with true peace of mind. Quiet, secluded,
this beautiful stretch of sand and surf is the best locale for a relaxed evening. The Payyambalam beach is a popular picnic
spot of the local people and holds much potential for development into a tourist resort. Pathiramanal
BeachPathiramanal - meaning sands of the night - is a cornucopia of biodiversity. Pathiramanal
beach is a long clean beach. Its enchanting ambience invites one to swim, sunbathe or just lounge around. While the myriad
flora and fauna are a naturalist's delight, the canals around Pathiramanal complete the picture of romantic idyll. It is a
favourite natural hub of hundreds of rare migratory birds that reside over here from different parts of the land. In fact,
it is a remarkable conjunction of beach and island. Sankhumugham BeachSankhumugham
beach is a favourite hunt of sunset watchers. The beach is adjacent to the Thiruvananthapuram Airport and Veli Tourist Village.
An indoor recreation club, the matsya kanyaka (a gigantic, 35meter long sculpture of a mermaid) and a restaurant shaped like
a starfish are some of the attractions here. Surfing in calm and peaceful waters of the beach is rejuvenating. Tanur BeachTanur beach is a marvelous place to roam about as it gives you immense exposure
to the nature. If you are a nature lover, this beach is made for you where you can relax under the cool shades of the palm
trees, or you can stroll for hours amidst sun, sand and sea. Tanur Beach is located is in Malapuram. Tanur was one of the
oldest Portuguese settlements. It was visited by St. Francis Xavier in 1546. Thangassery BeachThangassery beach is located 5 km far from Kollam town. Thangassery beach seems to be living memories of Portuguese
and Dutch settlements. It is a sea side village of historic importance. Tourist attraction near the beach is the Old Portuguese
fort and churches built in the 18th century which is in ruin stage now. Here is another tourist attraction is Thangassery
lighthouse, 144 feet heights open to visitors every day. Thirumullavaram BeachSituated 6 Kms from Kollam, Thirumullavaram beach this beach is a beautiful picnic spot. This beach is dotted with
coconut palms grooves is ideal for an early morning walk. The beach has good bathing facilities. About one and a half kilometre
into the sea is the Nyarazhcha Para, literally Sunday Rock that can be seen from the shore at low tide. Varkala BeachVarkala beach combines a religious ambience with a merry atmosphere to
provide a unique experience to pilgrims and tourists alike. The nearby mineral springs at the Varkala beach are said to possess
medicinal properties and you too can take a dip or drink from the beautiful springs. Watch the bewitching sunset from the
shore of the Varkala Beach for a fulfilling vacation.
Hill StationsAttappadyA
beautiful synthesis of mountains, rivers and forests, Attappady is of great interest to anthropologists. This is the habitat
of many tribes like the Irulars and Mudugas. The Malleeswaran peak is worshipped as a gigantic Sivalinga by the Adivasis who
also celebrate the Sivarathri festival with great fervour. A PWD Rest House, a VIP Guest House and a few private hotels offers
accommodation at Agali. MunnarMunnar, one of the most popular hill
stations in India is situated at the confluence of three mountain streams - Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala. Located at
1600meter above sea level, this was once the summer resort of the erstwhile British Government in South India. Sprawling tea
plantations, picture book towns, winding lanes, trekking and holiday facilities make Munnar a unique experience. It's a lush
green carpet of tea plants. A trip on the splendid reservoir is an unforgettable experience. The Anayirangal dam is surrounded
by Tata Tea plantations and evergreen forests.
VagamonIf beauty, privacy, serenity are your ideas of a well deserved
holiday, then Vagamon is the place for you. Located among the lofty mountains of the Western Ghats in the border of Kottayam
and Idukki districts of Kerala at an altitude of 1100 metres above sea level, Vagamon is a lovely hill station in South India.
Also known as the Scotland of Asia, Vagamon remained hidden till the British discovered it nearly a century ago, and they
used the place for tea plantations, followed by Christian missionaries who built here their abode of service. Vagamon remains
cool during most part of the year. WayanadSituated at a height
of 2100 meters above sea level in Kerala, Wayanad hill station is one of the most charming and calm hill stations of Kerala.
The lush green vegetation, along with mist-clad hills and pure air will make your travel to Wayanad an unforgettable experience.
It is a paradise and a must visit if you are traveling to Kerala. The hill station is covered with plantations of tea and
spices, which gives a mystical touch to the place. Traveling to Wayanad will definitely be an experience of a lifetime for
you. DevikulamDevikulam is located at a height of 1800 meters above
sea level and is around 16 kilometers from Munnar in Kerala. The hill station is famous for its unique flora and fauna. The
hill station has a paradise like feel to it and nature blooms in its best form here. Nothing can beat the experience of taking
a walk in the early morning mist along the softly gushing waterfalls that cascade from steep heights. All this creates a magical
atmosphere to the place and adds to the romantic beauty here. All we can say is come to devikulam to feel the natural beauty
yourself. No words can describe the serenity of this wonderful hill station. PonmudiPonmudi hill station, Trivandrum is a beautiful hill station located at a distance of 61 kilometers from the city.
An unexplored destination, Ponmudi, Kerala is a tranquil spot located atop hills and is a must visit if you to experience
true bliss and feel rejuvenated once again. The place is located at a height of 600 meters above sea level and is called the
Golden peak. Ponmudi hill station is a welcome break from the hustle - bustle of the city life and one can relax without being
disturbed in the lap of nature. PeermadeOn the way to Thekkady,
Peermade is a small hill station. It is a fertile land at an altitude of 914 meters. Formerly the summer palaces of Travancore
Rajas this tiny and cool hill station is full of rubber, tea, coffee, pepper and cardamom plantation, interspersed with waterfalls
and open grasslands. IdukkiIdukki, the beautiful hill station of
Kerala derives its name from a Malayalam word 'idukku', which means narrow gorge. Idukki is known as the land of massive mountains,
variegated valleys and splendid streams. Located in the southern portion of Kerala, Idukki offers diverse tourist attractions
like hill ranges, mountain treks, spice plantations, virgin beauty of nature and wild life sanctuaries.
Wildlife Sanctuaries Periyar National
ParkThe Periyar Tiger Reserve spreads over 777 sq km of tropical evergreen, semi- evergreen
and moist deciduous forests. It was declared a Project Tiger Reserve in 1978 under the famous scheme, Project Tiger. The Periyar
Tiger Reserve, named after the Periyar River, is one of our prestigious possessions on the High Ranges of Western Ghats. Noted
for its geomorphology, wildlife and scenic beauty, the Periyar Tiger Reserve attracts travellers from all over the world.
It also harbours an aquatic eco system within itself. Numerous small islets in the large 50 year old artificial lake remind
us of the intricate, inherent interrelationship among the terrestrial aquatic and subterranean life forms. This is the only
sanctuary in India where the elephant can be observed and photographed at close quarters from the safety of a boat. The evergreen forests have lofty tree and the canopy is closed. The varied habitat naturally supports a variety of
species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and fishes. Tiger, panther and wild dog, elephant, gaur, sambar, barking deer,
wild boar, sloth bear, Nilgiri tahr langur, lion tailed macaque, otter, Malabar giant squirrel, civets etc. are generally
sighted. There are several kinds of poisonous and non-poisonous snakes including the king cobra. Tortoise may often be seen
asking on rocks and tree-trunks by the lake. The Masheer, the most famous game fish of India exists in large numbers. The
common aquatic birds are the Indian darter, little cormorant kingfisher, and the black-necked stork, the great Indian hornbill,
peafowl, brahminy kite and black winged kite. Effective measures to eliminate grazing, prevent poaching and encourage tourism
have been taken. Eco development is also a thrust area.
Eravikulam National ParkA sanctuary for the endangered mountain goat
of South India, the Nilgiri Tahr (Hemitragus hylocrious), the Eravikulam National Park stands out for the stark beauty of
its rolling grasslands and sholas, spread over 97 sq km in the Rajamalai hills. Anamudi, the
highest peak (2695 m) south of the Himalayas, towers over the sanctuary in majestic 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. Idukki National ParkLocated in the southern state of India, Kerala, Idukki National
Park is one of Kerala's finest havens for wildlife and is home to vast herds of Elephants, bisons, bear, wild boars, sambar
wild dogs, jungle cats, tiger, wild boar and has a very large concentration of various species of snakes including cobra,
viper, kraits and numerous non-poisonous ones. The bird life in the sanctuary is equally impressive. Important birds include
myna, jungle fowl, black bulbul, laughing thrush, woodpecker, peafowl, kingfisher etc. Wayanad
Wildlife SanctuaryEstablished in 1973, the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is contiguous to the protected
area network of Nagarhole and Bandipur of Karnataka on the north-east and Mudimalai of Tamilnadu on the south-east. Rich in
bio-diversity, the sanctuary is an integral part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reservem, which has been established with the specific
objective to save the biological heritage of the region. The animal population of the sanctuary
is varies. Elephant, tiger, Panther, jungle cat, civet cat, monkeys, wild dog, bison, deer, bear, etc. inhabit the sanctuary.
Reptiles like monitor lizard and a variety of snakes are seen. Peacock, babblers, cuckoos, owl, wood pecker and jungle fowl
are only a few among the different types of birds seen in the area.
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