Kerala is one of the beautiful states in India, sandwiched between the Western Ghats on the east, and the Arabian Sea on the West. A tropical paradise of waving palms and wide sandy beaches, this thin strip of coastal territory slopes down from the mountain ghats in a cascade of lush green vegetation.
According to Historians "the discovery of Microliths or small stone implements near Kozhikode and Cochin point to presence of man in Kerala as far back as 4000 BC".

Kerala is a land which always encouraged trading and traders. In 1000 BC King Solomon's ship visited "Ophix" (the modern puvar south of Thiruvananthapuram) to trade in Ivory Sandalwood and Peacocks. This fame of Kerala Spices brought the Romans in 30 AD. Who were followed by the Greeks, Arabs, Chinese. The spices trade brought Vascoda Gamma to Kappad (near Kozhikode) in 1498. Which paved the way for a new trading history. Followed by Gamma Europeans opened the way for new trade in spices, Ivory, Sandalwood and Peacocks.

Geographically Kerala is one of the smallest states in India covering merely 1.3% of total area of the country. Karnataka in north and Tamilnadu in East. Physically the state can be divided in to three natural divisions, the sandy costal region with coconut groves, paddy fields, back waters and sea. The midland region made up of fertile reddish hills and valleys that grow most of Kerala's agricultural crops. Peaks extensive ridges and ravines of the Western Ghats. Where sandalwood, tea, coffee, rubber and most of Kerala's exotic spices are grown.

Kerala enjoys balmy whether almost all through out the year. It is neither too cold in the winter months nor too hot in summer. The best time to visit is November to February, where the air bracing and on some morning there is a light mist.

The official language of Kerala is Malayalam but English too is widely spoken. Kerala is one of the most progressive state in terms of social welfare and physical quality of life. The matriarchal system here is a unique social heritage as the women of Kerala enjoy a better status than there counter parts else where in India.

The people of Kerala enjoy a unique cosmopolitan outlook, which is reflected in their tolerance towards other races and religions. So it has been called Kerala as  "God's Own Country"

Government Art Museum

Maharaja Swathi Thirunal Balarama Varma - the King of Travancore, built this magnificent palace. He was a great poet, musician, social reformer and statesman. The palace, built in the traditional Travancore style of architecture depicts excellent craftsmanship and possesses exquisite wood carvings. The palace looks attractive due to its single stone carved pillars and beautifully designed roofs.On the southern portion of the palace there is a beautiful monument of 122 horses which is in position of ready to jump towards the south. Thus the palace got the name Kuthiramalika. Swords, guns etc. of olden ages are also exhibited here. 'Dantasimhasana' is the most prominent sight in this palace. The palace museum has on display, enchanting paintings and other priceless collections of the royal family.

Government Art Museum

Located in a park like complex with the Sree Chitra Art Gallery and Zoological Gardens, it was formerly known as 'Napier Museum', named after a former Madras Governor General, John Napier. It is an absolute gem of architectural exuberance, combining traditional Kerala styles with good doses of Chinese and Mughal influences. It has an excellent collection of bronze images, historical ornaments, ivory carvings and temple-chariots. In the 19th century, an English architect, Chisholm threw in a few torches and ended up with a building that is guaranteed to leave you smiling at its electric charm. The interior is every bit as intriguing as the exterior, with pink and blue stripes, alternating with stripes of yellow and cherry red, scalloped arches of a banana yellow, interpreting elaborately carved balconies, the whole linked together with red ad white lattice work and mock friezes. The collections are a varied and electric as the building and one likes to spend a pleasant few hours browsing through them.

Nehru Children's Museum

Established in 1980, this museum is named after Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, who is remembered for his great love for Children. The museum displays a vast range of objects. On view are dolls, both traditional and from all over the world, a mini aquarium and the fist issue of children's literature in Malayalam are on display.

Science & Technology Museum

Located near Hotel Mascot in Thiruvananthapuram city, the museum is of high educative value for students of Science and Technology.

Zoological Park

This place can be called as one of the first zoos in India. It is strategically placed in a well-planned botanical garden, with huge trees like frangipani and jacaranda dotting the sprawling lawns and wild fowl swimming in the lake, it is like a small jungle in the heart of the city. It also plays abode to a reptile house with different species of snakes. 

Shanmugham Beach

Shanmugham beach is just 8 kms from the city and forms an ideal retreat for sunset watchers. The beach lies adjacent to the Thiruvananthapuram Airport and Veli Tourist Village. An indoor recreation club, the matsya kanya (a gigantic, 35m long sculpture of a mermaid) and a restaurant shaped like a starfish are some of the few eye catchers present here.

Kovalam Beach

A beautiful, curving, palm-fringed beach of golden sands and safe bathing have made India's major beach resort. It is an internationally known holiday destination. This natural bay is a safe sea-pool free from high waves and surges - ideal for swimming, surfing and skiing. The more adventurous can ride out into the sea on a catamaran. Besides the ITDC's  luxury hotel complex, several other hotels and guest houses have sprung up on the hillsides overlooking the beach, taking advantage of the Kovalam boom. Among the many other attractions here are water sports, a theatre that stages traditional Kathakali dance dramas, a yoga center and facilities for traditional oil bathing and massages according to the ancient Kerala Ayurvedic system.

Papanasam Beach

41 kms from Thiruvananthapuram
Papanasam is a holy beach which means 'Destroyer of the sins'. Mineral water springs come gushing out from the cliffs bordering the beach  and are known for their medicinal qualities. The narrow road leading to the beach from Varkala is flanked by paddy fields and tall palm trees, on both sides. A Nature Cure Center and a Jagannath Swamy (Vishnu) Temple are situated near the beach. Visitors can pay homage to Kerala's saint and reformer Sree Narayana Guru. 

The Marari Beach (Mararikulam)

160 kms from Trivandrum
Right in the heart of the "spice coast" just an hour from Cochin and even less to  Alappuzha  is the most fabulous stretch of soft sandy beach fringed with palm, an idyllic retreat for those who want to "get away from it all". Marari originates from "mararikulam", one of the local fishing villages, where life still goes on much as it did a hundred years ago, with the men going out to sea each day to earn a living bringing in the daily catch. Completely new to the holiday maker. Marari offers endless miles of superb sand beaches backed by swaying palms, virgin territory where you can experience to local charm and traditional hospitality at its best.

Vizhinjam

Kombaikani & Meenmutti Waterfalls

These are two magnificent waterfalls on the upper reaches of the Neyyar Reservoir. A trek of 2 kms through dense forests, would take one to Meenmutti waterfalls and a further 2 kms, to the Kombaikani waterfalls. The waterfalls and forecasts around them are worth experiencing.

Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary

About 32 km from Thiruvananthapuram
The Neyyar reservoir is easily navigable and extends 9.06 sq. km. The vegetation varies from tropical wet evergreen to grasslands. The Agasthyakoodam hill, 1890 meters high, lies in the premises of the sanctuary. Elephants, gaur, sloth bear, Nilgiri tahr, jungle cat, wild boar, Nilgiri langur etc. are seen.  A crocodile breeding center, lion safari park, deer farm are the main attractions.

A repository of some of the rarest medicinal herbs, the Neyyar Dam is a popular picnic spot with a lake and a picturesque dam site. The lake formed by the dam across the Neyyar river is the bluest of blue, making boating irresistible for tourists.

The Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary of which the dam is a part is the habitat of over a hundred rare species of fauna including elephants, wild buffaloes, wild boar, porcupines, tigers and a variety of snakes.

Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary

About 50 km from Thiruvananthapuram.
Lying on the outskirts of the capital city, the Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary is spread over an area of 53 sq. km. on the Western Ghats and was established in 1938. The place is fascinating for its dam site, thick forest areas, eucalyptus plantations, crystal clear streams and rocky terrains ideal for adventure expeditions.

The sanctuary has a rich population of mammalian fauna and is emerging as a big attraction to wildlife enthusiasts and ornithologists. Elephants, sambar, leopard, lion-tailed macaque and cormorant are commonly seen here.

Recently, a joint effort has been made by Kerala Tourism with the State Forest Department and the Kerala Water Authority to beautify the dam site and provide more entertainment/leisure facilities here.

Thiruvallam Backwaters

6 km from Thiruvananthapuram
The stunningly beautiful and serene stretch of the Thiruvallam backwaters is temptingly close to Thiruvanthapuram. The renowned canoe rides make Thiruvallam popular with the tourists. You may even enjoy the water sports in the lagoon and the move to the beach from the village using the floating bridge in the waterfront park. The short village cruises using the country boats are the perfect ways to enjoy the backwaters of Thiruvallam, the meeting point of two rivers - Killi and Karamana.

Veli Tourist Village

8 km from  Thiruvananthapuram city
The Veli Tourist Village is sandwiched between the Veli Lagoon and the Arabian Sea. The lagoon here is separated from the sea by a narrow sand bar. Facilities at the village include water sports in the lagoon and an 18-acre waterfront park with a floating bridge that connects the village to the beach.

Tourist Village At Akkulam

10 km from  Thiruvananthapuram
Akkulam is one of the first picnic spots in the suburbs of Trivandrum City. This place is only 10 kms away from the Central Railway Station. The spot is developed on the banks of Aakkulam Kayal (lake), which is an extension of the Veli Kayal (lake). The calm and serene atmosphere and its unique natural beauty is fascinating for the tourist. The village consists of the Boat Club, Swimming Pool, Children's Park, an Anthurium Project and a Snack Bar.

Padmanabha Swamy Temple

Located inside the east fort, this fascinating temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple portrays both Kerala and the Dravidian styles of architecture. The mural paintings and the stone-carvings here are intricate and worth a dekko. The deity reclines on Anantha, the holy serpent. This is one among the 108 sacred Vishnu temples. Only Hindus are allowed to enter the temple and they too have to strictly follow the dress code, which is dhoti for the men and a saree for the women.

Thangasseri

Located 5 kms from Kollam town, is Thangassery, a seaside village of historic importance, which has the ruins of an Old Portuguese fort and a church, built in 18th century. The beautiful beach nearby has the lighthouse of 144 feet high.

Thenmala

The area is covered by dense forest, rubber and tea plantations.  An Eco Tourism Development Project is under implementation here. Thenmala is also a dam site.

Thirumullavaram Beach

Thirumullavaram Beach is a secluded beach and forms an ideal picnic centre and has frequent bus connections to the town. Mayyanad (10 km) is noted for its shrines and temples.  The most important of the nine temples here is the Subramanya Temple at Umayanallor.  There are frequent buses form Kollam to Mayyanad. 
(29 km) is a vast fresh water lake surrounded by hills on three sides. It is the largest of its kind in Kerala. The ancient Sastha Temple is an important pilgrim centre. 

Alumkadavu

23 kms. from Kollam
Gliding along the calm and serene backwaters flanked by green leaves and palms, seeing a rural Kerala preserved through the ages and completely hidden from the road is an enchanting experience to any visitor, more so while sailing a slow-moving, spacious Kettuvallam. Alumkadavu, a quiet spot in the town of Karunagapally,  has become a hot point of Kettuvallam building, with more than a hundred people involved. These huge, long and tapering barges were traditionally used to move tones of goods across kingdoms, with a portion covered with bamboo and coir serving as a rest room and kitchen for the crew. A familiar sight on the waters, these vessels are built entirely without using nails. Planks of jack wood are joined together with coir rope and coated with a caustic black resin made from boiled cashew kernels with careful maintenance they last for generations.

Palaruvi waterfalls

Located near the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border, 5 kms from Ariankavu is the lovely waterfalls at Palaruvi, at a height of 300 feet. Being the pristine spot, the waterfalls give the impression of following milk, which falls steeply down into a small shallow pool which is ideal for swimming nearby there are also smaller cascades, which gives a beautiful sight.

Kottukal Rock Cut Cave Temple

Kottukal Rock Cut Cave Temple is a magnificent temple, situated on the Thiruvananthapuram - Kottayam MC Road. Jatayupara is a huge rock at Chadayamangalam and takes its name form the mythical bird Jatayu in the epic Ramayana, who is believed to have collapsed on the rock after failing in his attempts to thwart Ravana's kidnapping of Sita. The crafts festival is held annually during December-January. It features the work of craftsmen from all over the country.

Mayyanad

Mayyanad  is noted for its shrines and temples. The most important of the nine temples here is the Subramanya Temple at Umayanallor. This shrine is said to have been consecrated by the great Hindu Philosopher Sree Sankaracharaya. There are frequent buses from Kollam to mayyanad.

Sasthamkotta

This vast fresh water lake surrounded by hills on three sides, is the largest of its kind in Kerala. The ancient Sastha Temple which lends its name to the town, is an important pilgrim centre.

Jatayupara

A huge rock at Chadayamangalam takes its name from the mythical bird 'Jatayu' in the epic Ramayana, who is believed to have collapsed on the rock after failing in his attempts to thwart Ravana's kidnapping of Sita.

Matha Amrithanandamayi Ashram

Vallikavu is the residence and headquarters of Matha Amrithanandamayi Devi, situated at Amrithapuri near Vallikavu.  The ashram is accessible both by road and boat. Picnic Village, located at Ashramam, along the backwater front, is the main centre of recreational activities in Kollam.  A 200 year old Government Guest House, and Adventure Park, a Tourist Boat Club, a Children's Traffic Park and a Yatri Nivas are all housed in this vast tourist complex. 

Perunthenaruvi

The Perunthnaruvi waterfalls on the banks of the Pamba River is a favourite picnic spot for both domestic and foreign tourists.

Arnmula

The famed Arnmula boat race is held on the last day of the week long Onam festival. The Vijnana Kaladevi at Arnmula impart straining in the traditional arts like Kathakali, classical dances, classical music, as well as Kalaripayattu. Foreign tourists stay here for long periods to get a first hand knowledge of the culture of Kerala.  The Parthasarathi Temple here has fine murals from the 18th century.

Arnmula Boat Race

This famous water fiesta is held during Onam (August-September).  The snake boats assemble near the Sri Parthasarathy Temple before the grand procession.  Each boat is 100 ft. long and accommodates 4 helmsmen, 100 oarsmen and 25  signers. The snake boats move in pairs to the rhythm of full throated singing and shouting, watched by an excited crowd.

Sabarimala  

72 km from Pathanamthitta
Sabarimala  is one of the most famous pilgrim centres in India, situated on the mountain ranges of the Western Ghats at an altitude of 914 m above sea level and is accessible only by foot from Pamba (4 km).  The temple is dedicated to Sree Ayyappa  Pilgrim season:  November to mid January.  Mandalapooja and Makaravilakku are two main events of the pilgrim season.  The temple stays closed during the rest of the year except for the first days of every Malayalam month and during Vishu (April).  Nearest railway station: Thiruvalla (102 km).  People of all castes are permitted into the temple.  However, entry is not allowed to women between 10 and 50 years of age.

Omallur

Omallur  is famous for the Rakthakanta Swamy Temple and the annual cattle fair held in the Malayalam month of Meenam. People from both within and outside the State participate in the fair. Malayalapuzha houses the Bahagavathy Temple and the goddess here is believed to grant boons to devotees and help them realize dreams.  The temple has beautiful wall paintings and artistic stone carvings. Kadamanitta holds the Kadamanitta Devi Temple, famous for the ten day long Padayani performances held in connection with the annual festival in April/ May. Konni is an agricultural region, rich in cash crops like rubber, pepper, coffee, ginger etc.  It was once the centre for training elephants and is now known for its elephant rides and the Anakoody where elephants are tamed and trained for work.

Boat Races

Alappuzha Nehru Trophy Boat Race at Punnamada (2nd Saturday of August). Pulinkunnu Rajiv Gandhi Boat Race (last Saturday of August). Champakulam Moolam Boat Race. (Moolam day of Midhunam- July). Payippad Jalotsavam (4th Onam day - August/ September). Neerettupuram Boat Race (Onam - August/ September).

Alappuzha beach

This is one of the most popular picnic spots in Alappuzha.  Referred to as the Venice of the East, Alappuzha has always enjoyed a unique place in the maritime history of Kerala. Today, it is famous for its boat races, backwater holidays, beaches, marine products and coir industry. Alappuzha beach is a popular picnic spot. The pier, which extends into the sea here, is over 137 years old.  Entertainment facilities at the Vijaya beach park add to the attractions of the beach.  This  beach has a long stretch of shore that is laden by dense palm groves. The landscape around the beach is very fascinating as is the rest of Kerala. A towering lighthouse overlooks the beach which is greatly fascinating to visitors.

Pathiramanal

14 Kms from Alappuzha
According to the mythology a young brahmin dived into the Vembanad lake to perform his evening ablutions and water made way for land to rise from below, thus creating the enchanting island of Pathiramanal (sand of midnight). This little island on the backwaters is a favourite haunt of hundreds of rare migratory birds from different parts of the world. The island lies between Thaneermukkom and kumarakom and is accessible by boat.

Kuttanad  Backwaters

Kuttanad lies sandwiched between the sea and the hills. The 75 kilometers long sparkling network of rivers, canals, lakes, lagoons and tiny streamlets between Kollam and Cochin and beyond to Thiruvananthapuram, of which the Kuttanad (Backwaters) comprises of, are akin to a tropical land of canals. Kuttanad, called the rice bowl of Kerala because of her wealth of paddy crops is at the heart of the backwaters. The scenic countryside of Kuttanad with its shimmering waterways also has a rich crop of bananas, yams and casava which accompany the rice bowl as "side dishes". This is one of the places in the world where farming is done below sea level. Inland waterways which flow above land level is an amazing feature of this unique land.

Q S T and R Block Kayal

These regions are wonders of the indigenous agricultural engineering know-how of Kerala and remind the visitor of the famous dikes of Holland.  Extensive areas of land has been reclaimed from the backwaters and are protected by dikes built all around.  Here cultivation and habitation are made possible four to ten feet below sea level.  A leisurely cruise along the canals that surround these kayals is a memorable experience.

Krishnapuram Palace

Built by Marthanda Varma, this palace at Karthikaplly in Kayamkulam is famous for its mural depicting the story of Gajendramoksham.  Dating back to the 18th century, this exquisite piece of art is one of the larges murals in Kerala. The palace museum houses antique sculptures, paintings and bronzes.

Champakulam Church  

One of the oldest churches in Kerala, the St. Mary's Church is believed to be one of the seven established by St. Thomas.  The annual feast at this church falls on the 3rd Sunday of October every year. The feast of St. Joseph is celebrated on March 19th.

Chavara Bhavan

Chavara Bhavan is the ancestral home of the blessed Kuriakose Elias Chavara.  It is now a holy shrine and spiritual resort where thousands of devotees gather for prayer, receive favours and feel amply gratified. Here, a 250 year old historically important beacon of light is preserved intact in its original and primitive form.

Ambalappuzha Sree Krishna Temple

Built in the typical Kerala architectural style, this temple is famous all over India for the Palpayasam, the daily offering of deliciously sweet milk porridge. It is also in this temple that Palipana is performed by Velans (sorceres) once every twelve years.  Paintings of the Dasavatharam (the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu) are on display on the inner walls of the Chuttambalam. Ottanbullal, a satiric art form originated by the poet Kunchan Nambiar, was first performed on the premises of this temple.

Arthunkal

The St. Sebastian's Church here is an important Christian pilgrim centre.  Annual festival - Arthunkal Perunnal - the feast of the patron saint. (January).

Edatya Church

It is believed that prayers and offering s at this church help to heal all mental disorders and other ailments.  During the annual feast (5th, 6th, 7th of May) pilgrims from all parts of South India, irrespective of caste and creed, visit the church and seek the blessings of the saint.

Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple

Situated near Harippad, this is a serpent shrine under the patronage of a Brahman family, headed by a priestess. The ancient shrine is an internationally renowned pilgrim centre dedicated to the Serpent God Nagaraja. Sarpa Yakshi and Naga Yakshi are the beloved consorts of Nagaraja. It is believed that Nagaraja as the installed deity is endowed with the form of Hari (Lord Vishnu) and the spirit of Lord Shiva.  legend has it that the first priestess of Mannarasala gave birth to a five-headed snake, which is believed to reside in the ancestral house to safeguard the family. At Mannarasala barren women are believed to be blessed with children and a special turmeric paste available at the shrine is credited with powers to cure even leprosy.

Chettikulangara Bhagavathy Temple

The Kettukazhcha festival at this temple draws large crowds of devotees. Processions of all decorated structures on chariots, brightly decorated effigies of horses and bullocks and cultural performances make a spectacular pageant. (Festival - February / March).

Kumarakom (Backwaters)

10 km from Kottayam
A voyage north of Alappuzha takes you to the rich green, sleepy little village of Kumarakom on the Vembanad Lake. An enchanting picnic spot and a fast developing backwater tourism destination, Kumarakom provides boating, fishing and sightseeing experiences that are truly exhilarating. At Kumarakom, you could sail the backwaters in rented houseboats, which are poled by local oarsmen and are simply furnished with a living room, a bedroom and bath, together with a raised central platform creating a private sit-out for the passengers. Sections of the curved roof of wood or plaited palm open out to provide shade and allow uninterrupted views. Boat trains - formed by joining two or more houseboats together - make for a convenient mode of sightseeing when the company is large.

Kumarakom Tourist Village

Kumarakom Tourist Village that offers houseboat cruises and holiday packages. The otherwise quiet and peaceful lake comes alive bustling with joy at the arrival of Onam. It forms the centre of attraction during that time as the snake boat races are held there. The vigour of the boatmen, their cheerful and competitive spirit and the enthusiasm of the silent watchers is worth the bucks spent on a trip to this place. 

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

12 kms west of Kottayam town is this small village Kumarakom, which has a beautiful bird sanctuary on the banks of the Vembanad Lake and is an ideal place for backwater cruises. The 14-acre sanctuary is an ornithologist's paradise and a favorite haunt of migratory birds like Siberian stork, Egret darter, Heron and Teal. There are also different varieties of local birds like waterfowl, wild duck, cuckoo, owl, water duck etc. The sanctuary is open from 10.00 am to 6.00 pm and the best months to bird watch are between June and August. Close to the sanctuary, in the beautifully wooded ground near the backwaters, is coconut lagoon heritage resort, which is one of India's most discrete holiday destinations. Guests stay in genuine 'Tharawad' (traditional wooden) cottages and love this unique culture.

Vembanad Lake

16 kms from Kottayam
Vembanad Lake is an intermingled and immense network of rivers and canals, it is so to say, just another paradise. It incidentally forms the joining point of all the rivers. The lake is an enchanting picnic spot and a fast developing backwater tourist destination. It provides boating, fishing and sight seeing experiences that are truly exhilarating. The Kumarakom tourist village also offers houseboat cruises and holiday packages.

Anchuvilakku

Anchuvilakku is a stone lamp post, from the times when the Kerala architecture reigned supreme. It lies near the Changanacherry boat jetty, where the famous Changanacherry market also exists. Five lamps adorn this post and are lit using kerosene.

Aruvikkuzhi

Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls is a beautiful picnic spot where streams snake through the landscapes that house fascinating rubber plantations and the gushing waters make gurgling noises that are a treat to the ears. The waters splash down the mountains from a height of 100 ft.

Karimbukayam

Karimbukayam is a tiny area on the Manimala River. The river flows between the Kanjirapally and Erumeli. This place is bountiful in natural treats but what makes it so popular are the occasional exotic water fiestas on the reservoirs organized by the fervent people. 

Ilaveezhapoonchira

Ilaveezhapoonchira  Skirting the Kottayam district are beautiful valleys of Ilaveezhapoonchira, spread over thousands of acres.  The verdant landscape punctuated by four gigantic hills, each rising to around 3200 ft, is an ideal place to unwind.  During the monsoons when the valley fills up to form a scenic lake, this place unveils yet another beautiful slice of nature. Ilaveezhapoonchira means valley where leaves don't fall and is named so because the place has no trees. 

Kannadipara 

As the name suggests, the valley of this rocky mountain reflects the morning sun with a mirror like perfection. This is also the highest point in Ilaveezhapoonchira. 3 km from here is the Pazhakakanam Plateau nourished by the Kadapuzha River. Bamboo groves, meadows and wild flowers make this place exotic. An added attraction  here is the Kazhukankulimali Waterfalls that playfully cascade down the mountain and greet the river below with a magnificent splash.  On the eastern side of Kannadipara is a natural fort set amidst steep rocks.

Koottickal

Situated in the western ghats, 5 kms north of Mundakayam in Kottayam district, is Koottickal .The majesty of the mountain ranges combined with the beauty of the forest and the artificial lake created by the check dam of the River Manimala makes the spot linger in ones mind. Amruthameda, which is famous for medicinal plants, is nearby.  The waterfall at Vadakkemala, near Kootickal is another attraction.

Poonjar Palace

Poonjar Palace - Within the palace walls is an extraordinary royal collection of antiques and exquisite furniture which include a palanquin, a thoni - carved out of a single piece of wood - for Ayurvedic massages, huge chandeliers, palm leaf engravings, jewel boxes, different varieties of lamps, sculptures of Nataraja (dancing Lord Shiva), grain measures, statues and weapons. A unique conch preserved here is taken out once a year for ritualistic purposes. Near the palace is an amazing replica of the Madurai Meenakshi Temple. The walls of this temple bear sculptures which narrate stories from the Puranas (the legends of ancient India). However, the most fascinating thing here is the Chuttuvilakku (row of lamps) carved out on stone walls of the Sastha Temple nearby. 

Illickal Kallu 

This magnificent hill comprises of three different hills each rising to 4000 ft and above. The hills have a rather peculiar shape, closely resembling the mushroom or an umbrella. Hence the name Kuda kallu (umbrella shaped rock). The hill houses a medicinal herb Neel Koduveli believed to possess supernatural healing powers. One can have a look at the Arabian Sea from the hilltops. The sunset is an exceptionally rare treat to the eyes.

Wagamon  (Trekker's Paradise)

Situated at an elevation of 1100 metres above sea level, Wagamon is called the trekker's paradise because it is an ideal place for trekking and a beautiful tourist spot surrounded by the greenery of tea plantations, meadows, valleys and dales. It is about 60 km from Kottayam. The other attraction of this place is Kurisumala, a sky-scraping mountain with a small church on its peak. There is also a monastery on this hill, called Kurisumala Ashramam, which has a small community of ascetics who follow Christian faith but combines with it the Indian spiritual traditions and Gandhian thoughts. People of all faith are welcome to visit this place.

Vavarambalam

Vavarambalam is a mosque dedicated to Vavar, a companion of Sree Ayyappa. The Pettathullal festival is held here in January every year.

Thazhathangadi

The Mosque at Thazhathangadi is one of the ancient mosques in India which is made in the old Kerala style. It is believed that malik Dinar had built this mosque about 1000 years ago. Now it is an important pilgrim centre at Kottayam. The artistic value of this mosque is of special interest to the tourists.

Ayyappapara

The Pandavas, of the Mahabharata fame are believed to have stayed near this rock, 2000ft. above sea level, during their exile. The land is spread over an area of 20 acres. The name is believed to have its origination from the Ayyappa temple situated here. Standing on four pillars and placed below a flat but huge piece of rock that forms the roof, The temple, or so to say, a rock cave, can accommodate jus around 15 people. Thousands throng to this place to get the deity's blessings and more than anything, to watch the pleasing sunset. 

Kurisumala

3 km from Vazhikkadavu is this renowned Christian pilgrim centre where hundreds of devotees from far and near converge during the holy week and after, to climb the hill in faith, carrying small wooden crosses.  The peaceful Jewish Monastery at the top of the hill, the silence of the hills, the cool mountain air and the lush green landscape are all soothing to the soul. On the eastern side of the hill is Muruganmala housing a rock cut temple dedicated to Murugan (son of Lord Shiva).  

Thangalppara

The mausoleum of Sheikh Fariduddin found here makes this place a famous Muslim pilgrim centre.  Nearby is the scenic hill station of Kurathikallu and the beautiful Kottathavalam. Kottathavalam Near Murugan hills at Kurushumala, a flight of steps cut in the rocks takes one to this magnificent cave. The rocks within the cave, carved like chairs and couches and the figures of Madurai Meenakshi, Ayyappa, Murugan, Kannaki and weapons sculpted on them, are all worth exploring.

Vaikom

This town, located on the bank of the Vembanadu lake, is famous for its Siva temple, which is one of the oldest Siva Temple in the world. During the Sabarimala season pilgrims alight here to worship the 'Annadanaprabhu (Load Siva)'. Vaikom gained prominence during the Indian freedom struggle, as it was the venue of the famous Satyagraha staged in 1925 for the admission of Harijans into this temple. Vaikom is situated about 40kms from Kottayam town. Two Ashtami festivals are held annually, one in Kumbham (Feb -Mar) and the other in Vrischikam (Nov-Dec) of which the latter is more famous. The celebrations last for 12 days and end with an 'Aarattu' at the Subramanya Swami Temple at Udayanapuram, on the day after Ashtami. Prathal (feast) is the main Vazhipadu here. There is a school teaching temple arts, known as Kshethrakalapeedhom, attached to the temple.

Vimalagiri (Angathattu Palli)

Vimalagiri (Angathattu Palli) is the cathedral of the Dioceses of Vijayapuram.This church, constructed in Gothic style. The main steeple has a height of 172 ft., which is considered as the highest church steeple in the state. Vimalambika is the deity here. The main feast is in December. This church is situated near Kottayam railway station. The chief ecclesiastical dignity of the Orthodox Syrian Church, the Catholics of the East, has his head quarters in Devalokam Aramana at Muttambalam Catholic Church, Latin Catholic Church and the Church of South India have their Head quarters in Kottayam. The Arch Bishop of Changanassery who follows the Syro-malabar rite, has his Head Quarters in Changanassery. The Bishops of Knanaya Jacobite and the Church Mission Society have their headquarters at Chingavanam and Kurichy respectively.

St.Mary's Church

St. Mary's Church is another attraction here and now forms a famous pilgrim centre. An annual festival is held here named the Feast of the Blessed Alphonsa (July). Thousands flock to see the major event. 

Mankallu Mudikal

The three hills in this region lie close to each other, their flat hilltops covered with lush grasslands. 

The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary

About 4 km from  Kumili
The most renowned destination is the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary at Thekkady, one of India's major sanctuary areas. The pride of Kerala and a testimony to nature's splendor and human innovation, the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is situated on the banks of the Periyar lake - an artificial lake, at Thekkady. Here the high ranges of the Western Ghats are clothed in dense evergreen, moist deciduous forests and savannah grasslands. Below this thick green canopy roam herds of elephants, sambars, tigers, gaurs, lion tailed macaques and Nilgiri langurs.

The sanctuary offers a lovely and comfortable way to see the animals via boat rides on the man-made lake, which the wildlife areas encircle. In addition to the wild life, there are water and land birds galore here, and one can sometimes find dedicated bird watchers setting in for one or two weeks of serious observations. This sanctuary offers the unique opportunity to watch and photograph wild elephants at close quarters.

Eravikulam National Park

130 km from Ernakulam
This sanctuary was established specially for the preservation of Nilgiri Tahr, one of the most endangered animals on the planet. Now the number of tahrs has increased and they constitute the largest known population of tahrs existing in the world. In addition to tahr, the park houses elephants, sambars, gaurs, lion-tailed macaque, Nilgiri langur, tigers and leopards. Accommodation and board facilities are available at Munnar, the nearest town, which is connected to Kottayam (148 km.) and Ernakulam (130 km.) by road. There is a motorable road up to Rajamally. Further, travel is on foot which makes for some great trekking.

Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary

Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary extends over the Thodupuzha and Udumpanchola taluk of Idukki district, spreading over 77 sq km and is about 450-748 m above sea level. The Idukki Reservoir formed by three dams - Cheruthoni, Idukki and Kulamavu - extends to 33 sq km. Fauna:  Elephant, bison, sambar deer, wild dog, jungle cat, tiger, wild boar, cobra, viper, krait... Birds:  jungle fowl, myna, laughing thrush, black bulbul, peafowl, woodpecker, kingfisher. 

Chinnar Wild life sanctuary

About 60 km from Munnar, Idukki district.
Proximity to Eravikulam National Park and Anamalai Wildlife Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu makes Chinnar rich in wildlife. This sanctuary is easily accessible from Udumalpet in Tamil Nadu and Munnar in Kerala.
A unique thorny scrub forest with xerophyte species, Chinnar is the habitat for the endangered Giant Grizzled Squirrel of India. The last world count of these squirrels was less than 200. Located in the rain shadow area of the Western Ghats, unlike other sanctuaries in Kerala, Chinnar gets only 48 days of rain every year. Rich in wildlife, the mixed deciduous forests here are ideal for trekking.
An extensive Sandalwood forest nearby is an added attraction. This is also an ideal place to watch herds of Bisons march past. Dry deciduous forests, high sholas and wet grasslands add to the diversity of the sanctuary. As one travels from Karimuthi to Chinnar, Elephants, Spotted Deer, Sambar, Hanuman monkey and even Peacocks can be spotted on either sides of the road.

Thattekad Bird Sanctuary

About 58 km from Kochi
Thattekkad is made up of dense tropical evergreen and deciduous forest and grassland patches, housing a population of over 500 species of exotic birds. This globally acclaimed bird sanctuary owes much of its fame to Dr. Salim Ali, the internationally renowned ornithologist. It is the exotic microcosm of India's bird population that brought Dr. Salim Ali to this place. His efforts were instrumental in the formation of this sanctuary to a large extent Spread across 25 sq. km. the sanctuary lies between the tributaries of the river Periyar like a peninsula. Rare birds like the Crimson-throated Barbet, Bee eater, Sunbird, Shrike, Black Winged Kite, Night Heron, Falcon, Grey Jungle Fowl, White-Breasted Water Hen, Hornbill, Ceylon Frogmoth, Rose-billed Roller and Blue-winged Parakeet live here.
Thattekkad also has extensive plantations of teak, rosewood, mahagony, etc. The dense forest is also the home of nearly 28 varieties of animals and nine varieties of reptiles.

Thekkady

Lies at an altitude of 900-1800 m above sea level. Rainfall:  2500 mm. The very sound of the word Thekkady conjures up images of elephants, unending chains of hills and spice scented plantations. 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.

Idukki Arch Dam

Idukki Arch Dam is the world's second and Asia's first arch dam, constructed across the Kuravan and Kurathi hills.  550 ft high and 650 ft. wide, the dam lies close to the Cheruthoni barrage.  To its west is the Kulamavu Dam. The Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary is located close by.

Cheeyappara Waterfalls

The Cheeyappara and Valara waterfalls are located between Neriamangalam and Adimali on the Kochi - Madurai highway. The Cheeyappara Waterfalls cascade down in seven steps. It is a real feast for the eyes. This is also a great place for trekking. It is noted for two acres of evergreen forests upon a huge rock. The rock is more than 500 acres in area and an ideal spot for mountaineering.

Nyayamkad Waterfalls

10 Kms from Munnar
Located between Munnar and Rajamala Nyamkad is a land of breathtaking waterfalls. The Waters cascade down a hill from a height of about 1600 meters, the enchanting surrounding make an excellent picnic spot and trekking point. 

Thommankuthu

28 km from Thodupuzha
Thommankutthu is famous for its numerous waterfalls. This place is ideal for natural lovers as the seven-step waterfall here is a much loved picnic spot. At each step, there is a cascade and a pool beneath to enjoy the panoramic beauty; the best way is to undertake a trek that takes one to the top of the mountain, a 12 km. climb.

Peerumed  

On the way to Thekkady, Peerumed 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 plantations. Surrounded by rolling hills and valleys, Peerumed is well known for its waterfalls, open grasslands and delightful trekking trails.