Hill stations in kerala

Hill Stations of Kerala :

Much of kerala's exotic appeal is centred in the highland area of the western ghats. Rising to an average height of 1520 m, the tropical forests of the ghats house rich flora and fauna. Not to speak of expansive, loamy plantations of tea, coffee, rubber and fragrant cardamom.


Chembra Peak :

14 km west of kalpeta, at 2100 m above mean sea level, chembra is the highest Peak in wayanad and is an ideal area for trekking.


Chithirapuram :

10 kms from munnar, with its sleepy little cottages bungalows, old playgrounds and courts, chithirapuram still exudes an old world charm. Home of the pallyvasal hydel power project, this hill town is also famous for its picturesque tea plantation.

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Devikulam :

7 kms from munnar, this idyllic hill station with its velvet lawns, exotic flora and fauna and the cool mountain air is a rare experience. The sita devi lake with its mineral waters and picturesque surroundings is a good picnic spot. The lake is also ideal for trout fishing.

Devikulam - Hill Stations in Kerala
Idukki :

A landlocked district, idukki is one of the most nature rich areas of kerala . The high ranges and wooded valleys are girded by three main rivers- periyar, thalayar and thodupuzhayar- and their tributaries. The river pamba also has its origin here. As a tourist destination, idukki offers diverse attractions like wildlife sanctuaries, hill stations, spice plantation tours, mountain treks, elephant rides etc. Idukki has a large population of tribals who have unique customs and beliefs and maintain an ethos which is distinctly different from that of the mainstream culture.


Lakkidi :

55 km east of kozhikode / 5 km south of vythiri, lakkidi the gateway to wayanad, is situated 700 m above mean sea level. At the crest of the thamarasseri ghat pass. Lofty peaks, gurgling streams and luzuriant forests add magic to the journey up the winding roads to this hill station.

Tourist Spots in Thekkady

The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (Entry : 0600 to 1800 hrs)
Lying close to the plantations, in the rich jungles of Periyar in Thekkady is one of the world's most fascinating natural wildlife reserves - the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. Spread across 777 sq. km, of which 360 sq. km is thick evergreen forest, the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary was declared a Tiger Reserve in 1978. Noted for its geo-morphological diversity of wildlife and scenic beauty, the Reserve attracts visitors from all over the world. The splendid artificial lake formed by the Mullaperiyar Dam across the Periyar river adds to the charm of the park. This is the only sanctuary in India where you can have the unique experience of viewing wildlife at close quarters from the safety of a boat on the lake. The greatest attraction of Periyar remains the large herds of wild elephants that come down to the lake's edge.

The sanctuary watch towers
There are three watch towers for observing wild life - at Edappalayam and Manakkavala and Thannikudi. Reservations can be made at the Forest information Counter, Thekkady. Tel. : +91-486-322028.
Kumily (4 km from Thekkady)
This plantation town, closely associated with Thekkady, is situated on the outskirts of the Periyar Sanctuary. It is an important shopping centre and spice trade centre, the main bus station and most of the medium range accommodation in the Periyar region is in Kumily.
Murikkady (5 km from Thekkady)
Washed in fresh spice scented air, Murikkady is a panorama of cardamom, coffee and pepper plantations.
Pandikuzhi ( 5 km from Kumily)
This picturesque place is cradled between Chellarkovil and the Tamil Nadu State border is a popular picnic spot. Pandikuzhi offers great opportunities for trekking and is a photographer's delight.
Mangala Devi Temple ( 15 km from Thekkady)
This ancient temple is hidden in the dense woods at the top of a peak 1337 M above sea level. The temple is built in the traditional Kerala style of architecture. Visitors are allowed here only on the Chithra Pournami festival day. The peak commands a panoramic view of the other side of the ghats and the vast plains of Tamil Nadu. Permission to visit the area can be obtained from the Wildlife Warden at Thekkady. Tel. : 91-486-322027.
Chellarkovil ( 15 km from Kumily)


This sleepy little village with its spectacular view of the plains (and cascading waterfalls during the monsoons) is a feast for your eyes. The village slopes down to the famous coconut groves of Kambam in neighbouring Tamil Nadu.

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Chellarkovil
Vandiperiyar ( 18 km from Thekkady)
The river Periyar flowing through the centre of this town nourishes its vast tea, coffee and pepper plantations. A major trade centre, Vandiperiyar is also home to a number of tea factories. The Government Agriculture Farm and Flower Gardens have a delightful array of rose plants, orchids and anthurium.
Vandanmedu ( 25 km from Kumily)
This is one of the world's largest auction centres for Cardamom. A walk through the sprawling cardamom plantaions of Vandanmedu is a pleasent experience.
Pullumedu ( 43 km from Thekkady, 26 km from Periyar)
The winding journey to this hill town, along the Periyar river, offers a stunning view of the rolling hills draped in lush greenery. Velvet lawns, rare flora and fauna add to the beauty of Pullumedu which can be accessed from a jeep. The famous Sree Ayyappa temple at Sabarimala and the Makara Joythi illuminations at the shrine are visible from here. Since it is part of the restricted forest zone, special permission to visit Pullumedu has to be obtained from the Wildlife Preservation Officer, Thekkady Tel.+ 91-486-322027 or The Range Officer, Vallakkadavu Tel. :+ 91-486-352515.
IN AND AROUND PEERMEDE
Kuttikanam
A place for adventure tourism and trekking, or even langourous, tranquil break. This picturesque plantation town washed in the fragrance of cardamom is surrounded by lush-green, gentle hills.
Thrissanku Hills ( 4 km from Peermedue, 1/2 km from Kuttikanam)
The rolling hills the lovely landscape and the gentle breeze make this an ideal spot for long walks. The hills offer a breathtaking view of the sunrise and sunset.
Peeru Hills ( 4 km from Peermede; 1 km from Kuttikanam)
This idyllic hill station is a favourite haunt of trekkers and picnic teams. The hill is named after Peer Mohammed. the Muslim sufi saint, who spent his last days here. The masoleum of the saint, the summer palace of the royal family and the residence of the Diwan situated nearby are all worth a visit.
Grampi : ( 5 km from Peermede ; 10 km from Vandiperiyar)
Grampi is also known as Parunthupara (eagle rock) because of the panoramic view from its high peaks. Rocky plains, lush hillsides, forests trekking trails and picturesque views lend charm to this destination. The road to Grampi is flanked by unending stretches of cardamom, tea and coffee plantations.
Pattumala ( 17 km east of Peermede; 28 km west of Thekkady)
Lofty peaks little streams and ever expanding tea plantations are the attractions of this place. Pattumala (which literally means hill draped in silk) is home to the two most famous tea plantations in Kerala - Harrision Malayalam and A V Thomas & Co. The Velamkanni Matha Church, built entirely of granite, at the top of the hill is a famous pilgrim centre. The flower garden nearby is a facinating riot of colours of roses, orchids and anthurium.
Vagamon ( 25 km from Peermede)
Grass covered hills, velvet lawns and the cool mountain air make Vagamon a perfect holiday retreat. A curious blend of religious mysticism and European legacies, this hillside village is haven of tranquility. The chain of three hills - Thangal Hill, Murugan Hill and Kurisumala is a mark of religious harmony. The dairy farm managed by the Kurisumala monks is worth a visit.
Sahyadri Ayurvedic Centre
A well established Ayurvedic Hospital Sahyadri, managed by the Peermede Development Society in Pallikunnu,is well known for its curative and rejuvenating treatment packages. The centre has well appointed treatment and accomodation facilities, a unit for manufacturing Ayurvedic medicines and a well maintained raw drugs museum where more than 200 varieties of rare and endangered herbs are preserved. More than 400 herbs used for medicines are grown in the hospital's own herbal-garden spread over 35 acres. For permission to visit the herb garden , contact The Director - Peermede Development Society, Peermede, Idukki Tel. : +91-486-332097, 332247 Fax : +91-486-332096

Thekkady

Thekkady, is one of India's most fascinating natural wildlife sanctuaries, where you can watch wildlife at close range. The vegetation, the flora and fauna and the birds of Thekkady are uniquely rich, vast and varied that it does not bear semblance to any other wildlife sanctuaries in the world. Even a casual visitor to this place will not fail to observe the special ecological pattern of Thekkady.

Thekkady - The very sound of the name conjures up images of elephants, unending chains of hill and spice scented plantations. In the crisp, cool air of the Western Ghats you will experience the most enchanting holiday. With the animals of the wild and the simple mountain people. In the Periyar forest of Thekkady is one of the finest wildlife reserves in India, and spread across the entire district are picturesque plantations and hill towns that hold great opportunities for treks and mountain walks. The Thekkady sanctuary is one of the best in the country for watching and photographing wild life. Thekkady is on the border with state of Tamil Nadu , in fact just 5 kilometers from the border town of Kumily which is very well connected by bus to both Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Notable among the denizens of Periyar are the tigers, the majestic Asiatic wild elephants and the distinctive Nilgiri langur. Other animals include the wild boar, wild dog, bison, bear and leopards. Amongst the avifauna, the most profuse are herons, egrets, darters, kingfishers and the great Malabar grey hornbill. A cruise through the waters of Periyar lake around which the wild -life sanctuary is situated, offers a soul - stirring pleasant experience.

THEKKADY - FACT FILE
Location Idukki District
Latitude 9° 15' and 9° 40' North
Longitude 76°55' and 77°25' East
Boundaries North and East : Madurai, Ramanad and Thirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu.
South : Pathanamthitta District.
West : Pampa and Azhutha Rivers.
Altitude 700-1900 M above sea level.
Climate Tropical
Temperature 11° - 27° C
Rainfall 2500 mm
Best time to visit September to March
Clothing Woollen and cotton
Languages spoken Malayalam, Tamil, Hindi and English.

Backwaters in kerala

Backwaters are the main specialty of Kerala. This main feature is always topped on the tourist list of the visitors coming here. Amazing in appearance, but too beautiful to be true, this place will take you to the voyage of lifetime. 44 rivers that flow throughout the state are intricately connected by a network of canals. Kochi houses the Vembanad Lake, which is the largest backwater stretch (83 kms in length). These watercourses are sailings by boats and provide awesome voyage throughout the lands of Kerala.


Popular Backwater Destinations of Kerala :
» Kumarakom : While sailing through the Kumarakom backwater, catch a glimpse of the rare wildlife of The Vembanad Sanctuary. Watch terns, gulls, herons, lapwings, kingfishers, stilts and Brahminy Kites at their own den.

» Kozhikode : Kozhikode was also known as Calicut. Kozhikode is situated in the northern part of Kerala. Blessed with many rivers, Kozhikode boasts many picturesque backwaters. Beautiful temples on the shore are worth watching during sailing.

» Alappuzha Backwaters : Alappuzha Backwater is a perfect destination for tourists who are looking for serenity, while experiencing new age luxuries and amenities. The beach resorts are other prime attractions of this back water.

» Kollam Backwaters : The tranquil backwater of Kollam is made up of water channels from Vembanad Lake. With its amazing natural beauty, this is a must visit on your Kerala backwaters tour.

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Backwater Cruises :
To enjoy Kerala's natural beauty to the fullest nothing can be better then the Backwater cruises. Kettuvalloms, the massive houseboats, will take you to a fascinating journey through the backwaters. Enjoy wondrous aquatic world, lush vegetation and a rich avian world all during your trip.

Famous beaches in kerala

With over 600 kilometres stretched coast line, Kerala boasts some of the outstanding beaches of the world. Some of the finest, most charming beaches of the world are waiting for you with coconut groves, natural harbors, lagoons and sheltered coves. The popular beaches of Kerala are the Kovalam Beach and Varkala beach. Beaches of Kerala offer an array of options for accommodations ranging from luxury to economical. The beaches of Kerala are well equipped with the best of facilities. Multi-cuisine eateries, Ayurveda and spa facilities add to the enjoyment on the beaches of Kerala.


Some important beaches in Kerala are :
» Marari Beach : The picturesque Marari Beach got its name from the neighboring Mararikulam village. Covered with silvery sand and lined with endless coconut palms, Marari Beach is a sight not to be missed. Surf, do para sailing or water skiing, simple strolling on the beach you can get enjoy a number of activities here. » Bekal Beach : Situated just 14 km from Kasaragod in Kerala, Bekal beach is famous for its beautiful golden sands, swaying palm trees, emerald waters and the serene environs. Apart from the other activities, the major attraction of the place is the majestic Bekal Fort. » Kovalam Beach : Kovalam beach, which means a groove of coconut trees, derives its name from the large number of coconut trees that are seen all along the shores. The wonderful permutation of the sun, sand and sea add an inimitable charisma to this coast.

» Alappuzha Beach : The Alappuzha beach boasts of golden sands, swaying palm trees, emerald azures and a festive environment. This exquisite Gateway to Kerala offers sufficient opportunities of gratification for the guests. Beautiful lakes, lagoons and fresh water lakes beautify this coast to its fullest.

Kovalam tourist spot

FACT FILE
Altitude Sea level
Latitude 8' 05'
Longitude 77' 15"
Rainfall 170 cm
Season Throughout Tropical
(Best September to May)
Languages Malayalam, English, Hindi, Tamil
Temperature Summer 20.6c(mean min)
Winter 18.0c(mean min)

Thirty years ago, Kovalam was a hippy idyll: a picture perfect tropical beach; a traditional fishing village providing fresh fish, fruits and toddy (coconut beer). Today this tiny beach is the focus of a multi-million dollar business, drawing thousands of tourists for a week dose of ozone, UV and a refreshing Indian Experience. Kovalam was brought to the public eye by the Maharaja of Travancore. Over the past three decades, the place has been well developed, and now figures prominently on the world tourism map. Kovalam is just 16 kms away from Trivandrum.Today Kovalam beach is 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. The crescent-shaped beach has three parts. The southern most beach, and the most popular, is light house beach. It offers an amazing sight of Vizhinjam mosque. The northern Samudra is a laidback one and time seems stands still here. The middle, hawah, in the early day, is a beehive of activities with fishermen setting out for sea. With a high rock promontory and a calm bay of blue waters, this beach paradise creates a unique aquarelle on moonlit nights.

Azure water and favorable climate make Kovalam a favorite year-round spot for swimming. Sea here is pacific and shallow where you can take a dip in the saline waters. The clean white sandy beach will arouse a temptation irresistible: to lie idle on the sands and tan your body.You could get into any of the Ayurvedic massage centre and indulge in a rejuvenating herbal, body-toning massage and holistic therapies

Tourism kerala

Kerala's backwaters and lagoons stretch over 1900 km. Kerala lives along these backwaters......more

Lose your heart to the mesmerizing charm of the tropical beaches such as Kovalam,Vizhinjam,....more




Inhale the bracing mountain air, relax in peace, stroll down winding paths ....more

A picturesque spot adjacent to thick green forest land, Vazhachal is just 90 Kms from Cochin.....more




Elephants, tigers, wild dog, flying squirrel and lion-tailed macaque are found here...more

Manor of erstwhile Venad kings, Padmanabhapuram palace is a 16 the century marvel on wood.....more




Kerala is an enchantingly beautiful, emerald green land, flanked by the Western Ghats on one side, the Arabian Sea on the other, and strewn with rivers, lagoons, backwaters and rich vegetation in between.

For tourist, Kerala offers Nature on a platter. Sandy beaches of Kovalam, blue Lagoons at Veli, Hill stations at Ponmudi and Munnar, backwaters of Kollam and Alappuzha, greenland plantations in the highranges, wildlife, high mountain peaks, picturesque valleys, magnificent forts and intricately decorated temples - Whatever one can ask for.

What's more, everyone of these charming destinations is only maximum a two-hour drive from the other. A singular advantage, which no other destination offers.