Area: 2193 sq.km
Population:2,938,583
Altitude: Sea level

The city gets its name from the word, Thiruvananthapuram, meaning the city of Anantha or the abode of the sacred serpent Anantha on which Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the Hindu trinity, reclines.
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This is another good beach 50 km from Trivandrum. The Papanasan beach here is not as crowded as the one in Kovalam. The Janarathama temple here is believed to be 2000 years old. Kollam is 31 km from Varkala

Things to See & Do
Varkala is first and foremost a temple town and the Janardhana Temple is on Beach road.

Entertainment
Kathakali performance in the atmospheric surroundings of the old Devaswom building are held.

Shopping
There are numerous craft places- try the Little Tibet Refugee Market. For spices there's Maria Spices.
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Tourist Season
August to March This back water town is well known for its rubber plantations . The religion is a predominately Christian and is dotted with pretty old churches. Thekkady is a major wildlife center 114 km from here. The Hindu pilgrim center Sabarimala is 134 km from here.

An unbelievably beautiful paradise of mangrove forest, emerald green paddy fields and coconut groves interspersed with enchanting waterways and canals adorned with white lilies.

Situated on the Vembanad lake, in this small water world you'll come across plenty of traditional country crafts, boats and canoes which will take you into the heart of the scenic lake. The resorts nearby offer comfortable accommodations and exclusive leisure options like an ayurvedic massage, yoga, meditation, boating, fishing, angling and swimming.

The Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom (16 km from Kottayam town)
Kottayam is a vast network of rivers and canals which empty into the great expanse of water called the Vembanad lake. The lake, an enchanting picnic spot and a fast developing backwater tourism destination, provides boating, fishing and sightseeing experience that are truly exhilarating. The serene lake comes alive during Onam with a spectacular water regatta- the snake boat races. It is indeed amazing to watch oarsmen, at least a hundred in one boat, slice their way through the water to the fast rhythm of their own full throated singing.

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary (16 km from Kottayam town)
Located on the banks of the Vembanad Lake, the Kumarakom bird sanctuary, an ornithologist's paradise, is a favourite haunt of migratory birds like the Siberian stork, Egret, Darter, Heron and Teal. Other common varieties like the Woodpecker, Skylark, Crane, Water hen and Parrots can also be spotted here. A cruise along the Vembanad Lake is the best way to experience the sanctuary. Pathiramanal, an enchanting island on the lake, can be accessed by boat from here.

Pathiramanal
This 10 acer island on the backwaters is home to many rare varities of migratory birds from different parts of the world. According to mythology a young brahmin divided into the Vembanad lake to preform his evening ablutions and the water made way for land to rise from below, thus creating the enchanting island.

Resevoirs at Nattakom and Panchikad

Adding to the charms of these quiet villages are their scenic reservoirs escorted by vivid green all along. Migratory birds come seeking this verdant landscape every summer and frolic in the natural splendour till the end of the season. A boat ride from Kodoorar in Panachikad to Kumarakom is a great way to relax and enjoy nature's bounties. Facilities here carter to the recreation needs of tourists; from soothing Ayurvedic massage to boating, fishing and swimming.
Mannanam Tourist Home An intricate network of shimmering waterways embroider the richly green landscape, making the land charming in every detail.

Anchuvilakku (22 km from Kottayam)
This stone lamp post, a typical example of Kerala architecture, was built near the Changanacherry boat jetty by the renowned freedom fighter Veluthampi Dalwa. The Changancherry market, one of the largest in Kerala, was also established by him. The five lamps on this post are lit using kerosene.

Nadukani
A picturesque location at the top of a hill with endless stretches of meadows grided by huge rocks. A bird's eye view of the low lying place can be enjoyed from here.

Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls (18km from Kottayam town)
2 km down a mud lane from Kumarakom is this beautiful picnic spot where streams tinkle as they way through the landscape and waters roar as they cascade down the mountains from a height of 100 ft.

Karimbukayam - Meloram
This quaint spot on the Manimala river that flows between the Kanjirapally and Erumeli panchayats is much sought-after for its natural splendour. How ever what makes the place really popular are the occasional exotic water fiestas on the reservoir organized by the enthusiastic people.

Erumeli
Nestled in the lush green Western Ghats is this nature-rich village. This is also the entrance points to South India's most prominent pilgrim centers - the Sabarimala Temple. At Kanakapalam near by teak plantations dot the landscape.

Bharananganam panchayat. A shrine dedicated to the Pandava brothers of the epic Mahabharatha is found here. As in the famous temple at Sabarimala, only ghee is used to light the lamps here.

St Mary's Church, Bharananganam
The mortal remains of the Blessed Alphonsa are entombed at this church which is now a famous pilgrim center. Thousands gather at this holy shrine during the annual festival. Feast of the Blessed Alphbonsa (July).

Ilaveezhapoonchira
Skirting the Kottayam district are beautiful valleys of Ilaveezhapoonchira, spread over thousands of acre. The verdant landscape punctuates 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. This is also one of the best places in Kerala to enjoy both the sunrise and sunset.

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. 3km from here is the Pazhakakanam Plateau nourished by the Kadapuzha river. Bamboo groves, meadows and wild flowers make this place exotic 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.

Mankallu Mudikal
The three hills in this region lie close to each other, their flat hilltops covered with lush grassland. An aerial view of these resemble a traditional clay oven. With no trees around, the hilltop give you the feeling that you are walking in the clouds.

Illickal Mala
Numerous mountain stream in this peak, 600 ft above sea level, flow down to form the serene Meenachil river. The solitude, the tranquility, the gentle breeze and the star spangled sky here are all enchanting beyond words. Tourist have to trek up 3 km to reach the top of the hill. And if you so wish, you could even spend the night on the heights.

Aranmula (32 km from Kottayam) This town on the banks of the river Pamba is famous for 'Aranmula Kannadi', a mirror made from certain combination of metals and polished to achieve the properties of a mirror. This is a traditional industry and the manufacturing technique is closely guarded. The Aranmula temple is a pilgrim center. The Aranmula snake boat race during Onam is the other major attraction. Aranmula is only 10 km from Chenganur

Illickal Kallu
Three hills, each rising to 4000 ft, and above, together from this huge hill. Each of the hills have a peculiar shape. One of them resemble a mushroom owing to which it gets its name Kuda Kallu (umbrella shaped rock). It is said that the medical herb Neel Koduveli, which bathes the hillside in blue, grows here. This flower is also believed to possess supernatural powers which could increase wealth and ensure a rich harvest. The second hill, has a small hunch on the side and is therefore referred to as Kuunu Kallu. Across this rock is a 1/2 ft. wide bridge called Narakapalam. From the hilltops, the Arabian Sea can be seen in the distant horizon as a thin blue line. The sunset on a full moon day is sensational, when the moon can be seen rising up like another sun, as the orange sun goes down.

Ayyappara
According to legends, the five Pandava brothers- epic heroes of the Mahabharatha - stayed near this rock, 200 ft. above sea level and spread over 20 acres, during their exile. The name of the rock is said to be a modified version of the original term. On one side of the rock is a cave that can accommodate over 15 people. The sunset is beautiful from here.

Kurisumala
3km from Vazhikkadavu is this renowned Christian pilgrim center 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 Monastry 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 rockcut temple dedicated to Murugan. The road to Kurisumala offers some real sightseeing opportunities in a European model house and the beautiful artificial lake, both designed by the renowned architect, Laurie Baker.

Thangalppara
The mausolem of Sheikh Fariduddin found here makes this place a famous Muslim pilgrim center. Nearby is the scenic hill station of Kurathikallu and the beautiful Kottathavalam.

Kottathavalam
Near Murugan hills at Kurushumala, a fight of steps cut in the rock takes one to this magnificent cave. Legends say that the royal family from Madurai rested here on their way to Poonjar. The rock within the cave, carved like chairs and couches and the figures of Madurai Meenakshi, Ayyappa, Murugan, Kannaki and weapon sculpted on them, are all worth exploring.

Poonjar Palace
The place is a glorious testimony to the regal opulence of a bygone era. Within the place 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 massage, huge chandeliers, palm leaf engravings, jewel boxes, different varieties of lamps sculptures of Nataraja, grain measure, statues and weapons. A unique conch preserved here is an amazing replica of the Madurai Meenakshi Temple. The walls of this temple bear sculptures which narrate stories from the Puranas.

Thirunakara temple
The Koothambalam (temple theater) is one of the most celeberated in the state. There are some good paintings on its walls. The Phalgunna Ustav (festival) is held in March/ April

St.Mary's Church
(Valliyapalli) This church at Thazathangadi is 3 km from the town bus stand. Built in 1550 AD this Orthodox Christian Church is famous for its 8th century Persian cross with Phalve inscription on it.

St.Mary's Church
(Cheriyapalli) This church is adjacent to the Valiyapalli. There are some excellent murals and paintings depicting Bibical scenes

Ettumannur Shiva Temple
Ettumannur 17 km from Kottayam on the way to Cochin is a few centuries old. The sculptures and carvings inside the temple are very interesting. The festival is during February/ March.

Vaikom
This old town on the banks of the Vembanad lake, has an important Shiva temple. The temple festival is in November/December. The view of the backwaters from the Vaikom boat jetty is beautiful. Cherthala is on the opposite banks. Cochin is 36 km from here

Niranam
(40 km from Kottayam) This is an important Christian pilgrim center. The church here is believed one of the seven churches built by St. Thomas, the apostle

Kaviyoor
(29 km from Kottayam) this small village is on the banks of the river Manimala. The temple here is dedicated to Lord Hanuman. There is an

District Area : 1414 sqkm.
District Population : 19,90,603
Climate : Tropical Humid
Altitude : Sea Level
Temperature : Mean Max. 35 degree C
Mean Min. 20 degree C
Rainfall : 229 cm. (Annual)
Clothing : Tropical
Tourist Season : August to March

Alleppey, one of the best-known ports along the coast of Malabar, is referred to as the Venice of the East, built on the banks of a network of canals. It is a fabled trade center of antiquity.

The beach here is not as big as the others. However, north of Alleppey, the Arthunkal beach in worthy of development as an international holiday resort. Watching rural life at close quarters - the many activities like; toddy tapping, fishing for small fry, coir-making, prawn farming, and scores of other sights by a boat trip in a country

This beautiful hill station is popular for its cool climate and tea plantation. This quiet little town boasts of many colonial bungalows, tea factories, wildlife sanctuaries and many lakes. The accommodation facilities are excellent.

Munnar, literally meaning 3 rivers, is situated on the confluence of three rivers. The average altitude is over 4000 feet above sea level.

The sprawling tea plantations and the cool climate make Munnar a special place.

Reaching Munnar
133 km from Cochin, the journey by bus takes nearly 4 hours. Buses start from near the south Railway station and are mostly run by private operators. Munnar is also accessible from Kodaikanal (110km) and Thekkady(98km).

Eravikulam National Park
Rajamalai in the Eravikulam national Park is about 17 km from Munnar. The sanctuary provides close viewing of the Nilgiri Thar, an endangered species. More than half of the Nilgiri Thar is found in this sanctuary. The other interesting sight is the flowering blooms only once in 12 years. The next bloom is expected in 2006 AD only. The other animal sighting commonly reported are Panther, Sambhar, Barking Deer, Gaur, Giant Malabar Squirrel etc. The sanctuary is 4 km from the Munnar-Marayoor (Udmalpet) Road.

Marayoor(36 km)
This small town is famous for the sandal wood forest in the surrounding region. Permission is required from the forest authorities to venture into the forest.

Chinnar wild life sanctuary (70 km)
This sanctuary is further on the Munnar-Udmalpet road. This road cuts through the sanctuary. The best time for animal sightings is in the evenings and early mornings. Common wild life sightings are Elephants and Gaur besides some rare birds. There are watch towers erected in the forests, with permission from the authorities one can use it to spend a night watching wildlife.

Mattupetty (13 km)
The Indo Swiss Project here attracts a lot of domestic tourists, the exotic cattle, rose gardens, lush green meadows and the dam with boating facilities are the major attractions. Top station (14 km) and Kundale (12 km) are the other attractions in the area.

Devikulam (16 km)
This is another hill station 30 minutes from Munnar. The lake and the tea plantations are the major attractions.

Suryanelly (27 km)
This hill resort is 40 minutes from Munnar. The lake and the tea plantations are the major attractions. The route to Suryanelly winding through the hills is a delight. There is excellent accommodation facility here.

Thattekkad bird scantuary
This sanctuary is 12 km from Kothamangalam which is on the Cochin-Munnar route.

Kodanadu
This is a forest elephant care center, here you can see baby elephant rescued from the forests being cared for. The elephants are also trained here. Kodanadu is 15 km from Perumbavoor which is on the Cochin Munnar route.

Pothamedu
Pothamedu offers an excellent view of the tea, coffee and cardamom plantations in Munnar. The rolling hills, the lush mountain and the breathtaking scenery here is ideal for trekking and long mountain walks.

Rajamala
This is the natural habitat of the NIlgiri thar. Half of the world population of the rare mountain goat which is fast becoming extinct, is now found here. The Nilgiri thars are today reduced to small herds found in Eravikulam - Rajamala region. Today number of Nilgiri Thars in Rajamala is estimated at 1317.

Sanctuary Visit
The park is divided into three regions - the core area, the buffer area and the tourism area. Visitors are allowed only to the tourism area which is in the Rajamala region. The Nilgiri thar can be observed at close quarters here.

Kundala
Kundala is a picturesque town on the way to top station. The golf course which belongs to Tata Tea Ltd is located here. The Kundala artificial dam is another attraction. Aruvikkad waterfall is also near Kundala.
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A landlocked district, Idukki is one of the most nature rich areas of Kerala. High ranges and wooded valleys are grided 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 station, spice plantation tours, mountain treks, elephant rides etc. Idukki has a large population of tribals, the main tribes being Muthuvan, Malayareyan, Mannan, Paliyan, Urali, Ulladan, Malavedan, Malampanddaram . The tribes of Kerala have unique customs and beliefs and maintain an ethos which is distinctly different from that of the mainstream culture.

Thekkady
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 plantation and hill town that hold great opportunities for treks and mountain walks.

The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
Lying close to the plantations, in the rich jungles of Periyar in Thekkady is one of the world’s most fascinating natural wildlife resaves – the Periya Wildlife Sanctuary , spread across 777 sq, km, of wich 360 sq. km is thick evergreen forest, the Periya Wildlife Sanctuary was declared a Tiger Reserve in 1978, noted for its geomorphology, diversity of wildlife and scenic beauty, the Reserve attracts visitors from all over the world. Entry to the Periya Wildlife Sanctuary : 0600 – 1800 hrs

Population Flora

Over 1965 flowering plants including 171 grass species . 143 species of orchids . the only South Indian conifer Podocarpus Wallichianus
Fauna
Mammals: Thirty five species including * the wild elephant, gaur, sambar deer wild boar which can be sighted from the boats * the Nilgiri Tahr in the higher rocky areas. The endangered lion – tailed macaque confined to the evergreen interiors . the bonnet macaque , Malabar giant squirrel, flying squirrel, tiger, jungle cat, sloth bear etc..

Birds
265 species including migrants. The hornbill, stork, woodpecker, kingfisher, raptor, cormorant, grackle, darter ect.

Reptiles: Cobra, viper, krait, a number of non poisonous snakes, and the monitor lizard.
Amphibians: Frogs, toads and limbless caecilians include the colorful Malabar gliding frog, common Indian toad, Fungoid frog and Bicoloured frog.

Pisces (fish)
The Periyar Lake and streams have several species of fish including the masher, the famous and endangered game fish of India. The otter, the only mammal of the lake, can be frequently spotted from the boat.

Plantation
Tea, Cardamom, Pepper and Coffee plantation surround the periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.

Kumily
4 km from thekkaddy this plantation town, closely associated with Thekkaddy, is situated on the outskirts of Periyar Sanctuary. An important shopping center and spice trade center, the main bus station and most of the medium range accommodation in the Peroyar region are 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 kumali : this picturesque spectrum of exotic flora, fauna and gurgling streams is cradled between Chellarkovil and Tamil Nadu border. A popular picnic spot, Pandikuzhi offers great opportunities for trekking and is a photographer’s delights.

Munnar
Munnar is situated at the confluence of three mountain streams – Mudrapuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala. 1600 m above sea level, this hill station was once the summer resort of the erstwhile British Government in South India. Sprawling tea plantation, picture- book towns, winding lanes and holiday facilities make this popular resort town. Among the exotic flora found in the forests and grasslands here is the Neelakurinji. This flower which bathes the hills in blue every twelve years will bloom next in 2006 AD. Munnar also has the highest peak in South India, Anamudi, Which tower towers over 2695 m Anamudi is an ideal spot for trekking.

Pothamedu
6 km from Munnar : Pothamedu offers an excellent view of the tea, Coffee and Cardamom plantation in Munnar. The rolling hills, the lush mountain and the breathtaking scenery here is ideal for trekking and long mountain walks.

Devikulam
7 km 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.

Pallivasal
8 km from Munnar : This is the venue of the first Hydro Electric Project in Kerala and a place of immense scenic beauty

Attukal
9 km from Munnar : A panorama of waterfalls and rolling hills, Attukal, Located between Munnar and Pallivasal, is a feast for the eyes. The place is also ideal for long treks.

Nyayamakad
10 km from Munnar : located between Munnar and Rajamala, Nyayamakad is a land of breathtaking waterfalls. The3 waters cascade down a hill from a height of about 1600 meters. The enchanting surroundings make an excellent picnic spot and trekking point.

Chithirapuram
10 km from Munnar : With its sleepy little cottages, bungalows, old playgrounds and courts, Chithirapuram still exudes an old world cjarm. Home of the Pallyvasal Hydel Power Project, this hill town is also famous for its picturesque tea plantations.

Mattupetty
13 km from Munnar : Situated at a height of 1700 m , mattupetty is known for its highly specialized dairy farm – the Indo Swiss Livestock Project. Over a 100 varieties of high yielding cattle are reared here. A visitor allowed into 3 of 11 cattle sheds at the farm.

Mattupetty lake and dam, jest a short distance from the farm, is a very beautiful picnic spot. The sprawling Kundala tea plantation and the Kundala Lake are other attractions in the vicinity. DTPC Idukki

provides boating facilities in the Mattupetty dam. Speed launch, Slow speedboat and motorboats are available on hire.

Lock Heart Gap
13 km from Munnar : This is the ideal place for adventure tourism and trekking. The fresh mountain air, the mist –clad hills and panoramic view if worthy of a visit.

Rajamala
15 km from Munnar : This is a natural habitat of Nilgiri Tahr. Half the world population of the rare mountain goat(hemitragas hylocres ) which is fast becoming extinct. Is now found here. The Nilgiri Tahrs are today reduced to small herds found in the Eravikulam – Rajamala region. The total number of nilgiri tahrs in Rajamala is estimated at 1317.

Echo Point
15 km from Munnar : This scenic place gets its name from the natural echo phenomenon here. Echo Point is on the way to Top Station from Munnar.

Eravikulam National Park
15 km from munna : The 97 sq.km. Park is situated in the devikulam taluk and is home to the nilgiri Tahr. The Anamudi peak (2695 m) is located in the southern region of the park.
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