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THE RAIN SHADOW VILLAGE | MARAYOOR

2008-06-12T12:16:00.000-07:00

Marayoor | Experience of a lifetime.

Referred to as the heaven on earth, exotic and pristine, Marayoor is a unique place where beauty meets adventure. The enchanting tourist destination of Marayoor offers diversity in every aspect of the land and culture...... hamlets, rocky hills, rivers, brooks, cave temples, paddy and sugar cane fields, waterfalls, sandal wood and bamboo forests.

Marayoor, a Rain Shadow Village on the eastern slopes of the Western Ghats, is 40 kms from Munnar on the Udumalapet road. It holds a lot of nature's blessing to be unfolded before its visitors.It's also a unique place where tourism meets adventure. The fresh mountain air, the mist-clad hills and panoramic view make it worthy of a visit.By travelling either from Marayur to Munnar or from Munnar to Marayur, one can feel the enchanting beauty of nature's blessing to be remembered for life time.

The enchanting beauty of Marayoor offers diversity in every aspect of the land and culture. Hamlets, rocky hills, rivers, brook, cave temples, sugar cane fields, waterfalls,Neolithic period's stone coffins, sandal wood and bamboo forests are all in store for the visitor. It is the only place in Kerala having a natural growth of sandal wood trees. The rare Neelakurinji flower is native to this region.

Situated in the district of Idukki in Kerala whose major portion of the geographical area lies in the high lands and is characterized by high rainfall and a cool climate. Idukki is one of the few districts in Kerala that does not boast of having a sea coast. The total geographical area of the district sprawls over an area of 5150 sq.km., which is 13 percent of the total area of the state.

Marayoor comes under Devikulam block- Several notes are found in history and epics about this area. It is believed that, Lord Sriram and Sitadevi visited this place during 'Vanavasam'. The name 'Devikulam' took its origin from Sitadevi and it is believed that she took bath in a pond here. In the great epic Mahabharatha, this area has also been cited. It is said that, 'Pandavas' had stayed in the area during their 'Vanavasam' and so the place was named as 'Maranjirunnaoor'. Now the place is known as 'Marayur'.

People of Marayoor

PEOPLE: Most of the people migrated from nearby state Tamil Nadu to this area when the Madurai King Thirumalainaicker was defeated by Tippu Sultan. The Migrated people created five villages namely Kanthalloor, Keezhanthur, Karayur, Marayur and Kottakudi. These villages were called 'Anju Nadu'. During the British period this block was under Periyakulam taluk. British administration introduced plantation crops like rubber, coffee, tea, cardamom etc.

Now plantation crops are grown predominantly in Devikulam block. Labourers from Tamil Nadu were brought here to work in these plantations. As a result migration of hundreds of Tamil families took place. A mixture of Tamil and Kerala cultures is prevalent here. Apart from Malayalees and Tamils,hilly tribes can be found in some areas of the block.

ATTRACTIONS: Marayoor -the pristine, heavenly and unexplored tourist spot is comparable to Munnar (the most sought after hill stations in India)in every respect and has now become well known as the real beauty with adventure .

The road from Rajamala to Marayoor is flanked by lush green tea estates. There are occasional waterfalls. Then comes the sandalwood forest. First, the trees come one by one, and then these turn into a sea. The air is cool and one comes under the rain shadow.

Descending the hill, one can see cane crops dancing in the wind. A children’s park formed under the canopy of a single banyan tree spreads across a hectare of land and is a wonderful sight. Then there is the Thoovanam Waterfalls where one can spend endless hours romancing with nature. The Rajiv Gandhi National Park nearby is also an attraction.

Muniyara's at Marayoor

Muniyaras : After reaching Marayoor comes the spot Muniyaras, or the stone coffins, which date back to the Neolithic period. The legendary wanderings of 'Rama and Sita' and the 'Pandavas' are clearly depicted here.Caves, paintings and under ground tunnels are also found here.

Stone Coffins : The stone coffins are everywhere - they are stone slabs resembling crudely-made boxes, resting on vertical rocks. Descending the hill one can see cane crop dancing in the wind.

Children’s Park : A children's park formed under the canopy of a single Banyan tree spreads across a hectare of land and is a wonderful sight. Then there is the Thoovanam Waterfalls where one can spend endless hours romancing with the nature. A park named Rajiv Gandhi National Park is also nearby.

Sandalwood Forest : Marayoor is the only place in Kerala with a natural growth of sandalwood trees. The sandalwood factory run by the Forest Department is of tourist interest.A reduced rainfall is more suitable for the growth of the best types of sandalwood trees from which good quality oil can also be extracted.

Compared to the neighbouring states like Tamilnadu and Karnataka (especially the forests of Mysore), Kerala has less acres of sandalwood forests. Kerala's share of sandal wood trees is confined to Marayoor and a few forest areas in Wayanad hills.

The sandalwood oil otherwise called the "liquid gold" is a popular perfume, especially among the elite.An inevitable cosmetic of the elite, the sandal oil called the "liquid gold" is a popular perfume . Most of the government handicrafts emporium in Kerala have this item for sale. One such is the SMSM Institute, Thiruvananthapuram, where you can buy 50 ml oil for Rs.1243/-. Sandalwood oil produced by a few private agencies are also sold here, after testing its quality by the government's research cell.Sandalwood oil is extracted from the roots and wood of sandalwood (Santalum album).

The Rain Shadow Village,'the heaven on earth',lies in the eastern side of the Western Ghats and is bordered by the neighbouring state Tamil Nadu. Most of the tribals are primarily engaged in agriculture.

Thoovanam Waterfalls : The spectacular thoovanam waterfalls and the Rajiv Gandhi National Park gives its visitors a memorable visit.The rare Neelakurinji is native to this region. Neelakurinji is an exotic flowering plant that paints the hills blue when it blossoms once every 12 years.

Thoovanam Waterfalls

WILDLIFE: Idukki district has at present about 260907 hectars of forest area. However, the sylvan wealth of the district and the animal life are fast disintegrating due to deforestation, indiscriminate felling of trees, encroachment and poaching.

All kinds of wild animals with the exception of lions abound in the forests of Idukki.The grasslands of Peerumedu are a haven of carnivores like the tiger and the leopard. Bison, wild bear, languor and monkeys are a few of the other common denizens of the jungle.

The Thar (striped goat) is peculiar to this region including Marayur and Rajamala and is seldom seen anywhere else in the world. The forests of Idukki resound during day time with the sweet voices of birds. These include the small wild parrots, mynas, red horned sparrows and a host of other nondescript species.

The valuable trees growing in the forests are teak, rosewood, deodars, sandalwood etc.The Forest Department has reared large Eucalyptus Plantations in the hilly tracts.

NEARBY ATTRACTIONS

KANTAHLLOOR LAND OF APPLE CULTIVATION : A veritable land of fruits and vegetables, Kanthalloor sports farms full of ripe apples, plums, pomegranates etc. not commonly seen in Kerala.There is no need for any one to go to Ootty or Kashmir to see the cultivation of apples.

At 5000 ft above sea level, Kanthalloor offers congenial atmosphere for the cultivation of apples. Although its skin is a bit thick, the Kanthalloor apples are rather sweet. The cultivation is done with minimum use of chemical fertilizers.

Guava, gooseberry, orange, eggfruits, peach, passion fruit etc are grown a plenty here. Non-Kerala vegetables like cauliflower, cabbage, carrot, beans, potato, beetroot, garlic etc are also cultivated here. The produce is taken to wholesale centers in Tamil Nadu from where they are distributed to different markets in Kerala.

MUNNAR : At an altitude of 6000 ft, Munnar is the only hill station in south India that lies snuggled in the high ranges of Western Ghats at the confluence of three mountain streams - Mudrapuzha, Nallathani and Kundala. The spectacular vista of cloud kissed rolling hills carpeted with tea plantations, rivulets dancing through green meadows and the colonial British settlements of the town make this place an ideal get away from the rigorous strain of daily life.

Chinnar Wildlife | Lion-tailed Macaque

CHINNAR : Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is a well-known reserve that extends over an area of 90 sq km. Recognized as a wildlife sanctuary in 1984, it lies in the rain shadow region of the Western Ghats. As a result, Chinnar gets only about 48 rainy days in a year during the months of October and November when Northeast monsoons are at work.

Chinnar is located 60 km from Munnar in the direction of Udumalpetta. From Marayur jeeps, scooter rickshaws or buses can be boarded for the sanctuary visit. Once past Marayur, the organised neat looking plantations give way to more wild and natural surroundings.

Wildlife at Chinnar includes elephants, gaurs, spotted deer, sambar deer, leopards, langurs, peacocks, and many other species of animals and birds. Tigers are also present in these forests but are rarely seen. The most spectacular of all the animals here is the Giant Grizzled Squirrel which is on the verge of extinction in most parts of India.

GEOGRAPHY : Marayoor is situated in the district of Idukki in Kerala. The major portion of the geographical area of Idukki district lies in the high lands and is characterized by high rainfall and a cool climate. Idukki is one of the few districts in Kerala that does not boast of having a sea coast. The total geographical area of the district sprawls over an area of 5150 sq.km, which is 13 percent of the total area of the state.

TEMPERATURE

Winter (can go down to 8 oC)
Summer (can go up to 30oC)

It is a rain shadow village,reffered to as the heaven on earth and it lies in the eastern side of the Western Ghats and is bordered by the neighbouring state Tamil Nadu.The place is occupied by tribals most of whom are primarily engaged in agriculture.

REACHING MARAYOOR: Marayoor is one of the main towns in the district of Idukki. This place can also be accessed from Pollachi / Palani in Tamilnadu and from Munnar. Tourists can find a good number of accommodation facilities at Marayur or in Munnar. Shopping facilities are rather basic at Marayoor but better at Munnar.

Munnar - Marayoor is 40 km
Munnar-Idukki is 55 km by road

The district is accessible only by road. The total extent of road mileage in the district is about 8000 Kms. of which only less than 1750 Kms are black topped. About 80% of roads are of lower type. National Highway NH 49 passes through the district.

Railway Station: Aluva railhead, is 120 km away. Ernakulam railhead is 173 km away.

Airport:Kochi international airport, about 150 km away.

KUMARAKOM | SERENE BEAUTY OF BACKWATERS

2008-06-06T14:04:00.000-07:00

Houseboats at Kumarakom

Kumarakom is a location of fascinating insights and attractions. The natural friendliness of the Kerala is best extracted through a luxurious cruise the backwaters of Virgin Kerala villages.It is a cluster of little islands on the Vembanad Lake in Kerala.Tucked away at the southern tip of peninsular India, sandwiched between the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea, is a piece of tropical paradise called Kerala. The National Geographic Traveler has listed it among the top ten must see destinations on earth. Kerala, as the cliché goes, is God's own country; and Kumarakom is its sanctum sanctorum.

Seemingly afloat on the placid waters of the Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom is a quaint little hamlet of tiny islands about 85 kilometers from Cochin International Airport.

Relish nature’s glory on wings with the world-famous sanctuary at Kumarakom.Taste a touch of rustic Kerala village life with the R-Block and Kainagiri, small islands on the Vembanad Lake. Witness farming of a different kind, farming below water level. Dip your toes in the warmth of the sand stretches of Pathiramanal.

Serene beauty of Kerala Backwaters is best enjoyed here. Take a pensive moment before the Buddha statue dating back to 300BC at Karumadikuttom or at the equally ancient St. Kuriakose Church. Savourstrokes of brilliant traditional architecture at the famous temples of Ambalappuzha or partake in the crafting of Kerala’s renowned ‘Snake Boats’ at Chempakkulam. Or just be Fascinated with women expertly fishing with their mere bare hands. And the million other fascinations that Kerala is known for around the world.

The placid waters of the Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom is a quaint little hamlet of tiny islands

Environment : Kumarakom is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a noted bird sanctuary where many species of migratory birds visit. The Vembanad Lake, the largest backwater in Kerala, is habitat for many marine and freshwater fish species and it teems with 'Karimeen' (Pearl Spotted Fish), shrimp (chemmeen in the local language) and prawns. The bird sanctuary extends over 14 acres (57,000 m²), and came into existence following preservation efforts from the government. It is a major tourist attraction.

Economy : Agriculture, fishing and tourism are the major economic activities. The place has expanses of mangrove forests, paddy fields and coconut groves. This rich agricultural environment is mainly irrigated using interspersed waterways and canals of the Meenachil river. Kumarakom's perfectly balanced tropical climate is conducive to cultivation.

Tourism : There are several activities for visitors, depending on how much time, money and local language skills they have.The Bird Sanctuary can be visited by canoes, which can be arranged with local fishermen at the entrance to the sanctuary. A two-hour rowing canoe trip may cost about INR 200-250, and is best undertaken in the evening or early morning to avoid the afternoon sun. House boats or speed boats can cover longer distances but cost more to hire.

Houseboat at Kumarakom Lake

Houseboats : Embark on a voyage of dreams in our exquisitely built houseboat. Surrender your senses to the pastoral beauty of Kumarakom, one of God’s own country’s renowned picture-book locales and be inspired by the timeless glory of the Vembanad Lake.

Experience the simple joys of life amidst the delicate embrace of mists, enhanced by the pleasant harmony of singing birds. Green stretches of paddy fields surround the rustic charm of tiny islands fringed with long rows of swaying coconut trees, as time seems to stand still while you drift along.

Strongly built as per every rule and norm of tradition, held together by coir ropes without a nail in sight, the houseboat redefines luxury with its shining wooden floors and luxurious amenities. Moreover, immerse in the amazing, never-ending, display of nature’s magical performances on the sundeck. Holiday with a differance.

With cool air-conditioning even in the dining-room, yet fully glass-fronted to offer the view in all its glory! Each houseboat has spacious rooms furnished in ethnic style that bespeaks higher levels of comfort.The elegant interiors are enhanced with impeccable luxury and every modern amenity at the tip of one’s finger.

South Indian Cuisine

Two experienced boatmen navigate you through tranquil stretches of Kerala’s favourite backwaters. A personal chef well-versed in tantalizing Kerala delicacies and seafood delights will be at your beck and call with choicest gourmet delights.

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary : Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary (also known as Vembanad Bird Sanctuary) is situated at Kumarakom in Kottayam district in the Indian state of Kerala, on the banks of Vembanad Lake. Set in the Kerala Backwaters the bird sanctuary is an ornithologist's paradise and a favourite haunt of migratory birds.

History : Developed in a rubber plantation as a bird sanctuary by an Englishman, the sanctuary was formerly known as Baker’s Estate.

A Resort at Kumarakom

Geography : The sanctuary is spread over 14 acres on the southern bank of the Kavanar River.It has well laid out paths for moving around within the sanctuary. Beyond the sanctuary one can take a boat ride in Vembanad Lake or along the Kavanar River.

Kumarakom is 14 km (8.7 mi) from Kottayam. State Highway No. 1 leads to Kochi and Thiruvanthapuram in opposite directions. Kochi International Airport at Nedumbassery is 106 km (66 mi) from Kumarakom.

Neighbouring areas such as Kaipuzha Muttu, Pathirmanal, Narakathara, Thollairam Kayal, and Poothanpandi Kayal are also good locations for spotting birds.

Bird Watching : The main attractions are local birds like the waterfowl, cuckoo, owl, egret, heron, cormorant, moorhen, darter, Brahminy kite and the duck, as well as the migratory Siberian crane. Parrot, teal, lark, flycatcher, and other birds are seen here during their respective migratory seasons. Some of the migratory birds come from the Himalayas, and a few from far away Siberia.

Dawn is the ideal time for bird watching when the birds prepare to leave their forest homes and fly over the lake. An early morning trek, well before sunrise, is recommended for avid bird watchers.

The WWF-India organised a two-day bird watching programme in 2008 at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary in connection with World Wetlands Day.Kerala Tourism Development Corporation, which owns the largest chain of hotels in Kerala, including a resort at Kumarakom, has plans to introduce guided bird watching trails and to open an interpretation centre.

Nearby Attractions : There is a driftwood museum at Chakranpadi, Pathiramanal approachable by boat,and imaginary Ayemenem of Arundhati Roy’s The God of Small Things is set in the area.

Modes of Access : One can access Kumarakom by many means:

By Air: via Cochin International Airport and the Trivandrum International Airport.
By Rail: via Kottayam By boat: From Muhamma (near Alappuzha) to Kumarakom Jetty.
By Road:(16 kilometres) Buses and taxis are easily available at all times of the day from Kottayam.

Boats Anchored in a Resort

God of Small Things : Arundhati Roy's The God of Small Things is set in Ayemenem or Aymanam village, which adjoins Kumarakom. The explosive success of this novel has given some added touristic impetus to this area. The Taj Garden Retreat hotel complex is centered around a building that is called "History House" in the novel; it was built by British missionary Alfred George Baker, whom the locals called "Kari Saipu" (possibly an elided form of "Baker Sahib"), as in the novel. Four generations of Bakers lived in the house until 1962, speaking Malayalam, and even wearing the mundu. The Baker Memorial School, Kottayam, was started by a daughter of this family in 1925. The Baker family's house is in ruins in the novel, as it was in reality before was developed into a hotel and has been restored by the Taj group. The Ayemenem house, where Arundhati Roy spent part of her childhood (like the twins in the story), can also be visited in the village, which can be reached by boat along the Meenachil river that figures prominently in the story.

ALAPPUZHA | VENICE OF THE EAST

2008-05-28T17:06:00.000-07:00

Vembanad Lake | Alappuzha

Alappuzha, also known as Alleppey, is a town in Alappuzha District of Kerala state of southern India. A town with picturesque canals, backwaters, beaches, and lagoons, it was described as the List of places known as Venice of the East by Lord Curzon. It is the administrative headquarters of Alappuzha District. Alleppey has a wonderful past. Though the present town owes its existence to the sagacious Diwan Raja Kesavadas in the second half of 18th century, district of Alappuzha figures in classical Literature.

Kuttanad, the rice bowl of Kerala with the unending stretch of paddy fields, small streams and canals with lush green coconut palms , was well known even from the early periods of the Sangam age. History says Alappuzha had trade relations with ancient Greece and Rome in B.C and in the Middle Ages, as well as with other parts of India. Alappuzha has a lighthouse, which is a major tourist attraction.

Alleppey/ Alappuzha is the hub for backwater tourism in Kerala. House boats locally called "Kettuvallam" are available on hire on a daily basis as well as for longer duration to take visitors on the old waterways. These house boats in general have 2 bed rooms and attached bath rooms. Some of the boats have the bedrooms fitted with air conditioners. A routine trip includes food cooked on board in the traditional Kuttanad style. The leisurely cruises show a microcosm of life on the water side with breath taking views of the water, land, birds and human habitations. Alappuzha is a centre for coir industries. The unique distinction of Alappuzha is that, it is the only district in Kerala without forest.

Houseboat Cruise in Vembanad Lake | Alappuzha

Washed by the silvery waves of the Arabian Sea, Alappuzha, the Venice of the East welcomes you to the backwaters of kerala. The Palm fringed canals and shores bustling with glimpses from the day to day life in the country side, the mirror still lagoons, picture book lakesides and its long sandy beach has blessed Alappuzha, the water locked district, to become one of the best Backwater tourism destinations in God's Own Country.

The large network of canals provide Alleppey its lifeline. Water carnivals using the gigantic snake boats and the country canoes of varying sizes have an important role in the community life of the people of the district.

The month of August holds the prime attraction to the civilians and the tourists as it is the time of the spectacular event -the Nehru Trophy Boat Race that is held on the second saturday of August every year. A cruise on an elegant houseboat offers a rare chance to view the attractive dense palm groves that are so characteristic of Kerala's landscape.

This district is also notable for its numerous pilgrimage centres that draw vast crowds on the festival days and also boasts of having some of the best ayurvedic rejuvenation centres in Kerala. This Venice of the East is also famous for its coir and carpet industries in addition to featuring many other attractions of tourist importance.

ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO

Alappuzha Light House

Alappuzha Lighthouse : The Alappuzha Lighthouse is situated in the coastal town of Alappuzha, Kerala. It was built in the year 1862 and is a major tourist attraction. Vistors are allowed between 1500 hours and 1630 hours on every weekday at an admission fee of ten rupees.

Alappuzha Beach : Alappuzha beach is one of the most popular spots in the district of Alappuzha. Its beautiful garden on the shore gives an exclusive sight. Imposing buildings of a colonial past overlook the shore. The pier, which extends into the sea is more than 140 years old and is a rare sight. Dense Palm groves at one end and an ancient towering light house at the other, Vijay Park and Sea view park are all spectacular sights one should never miss. Boating Facility is available in both Parks.

Facilities at the Vijaya Beach Park: Boating, a children’s park with toy train and bicycles. Open from 1500 - 2000 hours.

Backwater Cruise : View the landscape beauty , monuments, temples,churches and industries of Alappuzha by cruising through its rivers,canals and backwaters.The starting point is from Alleppey and the finishing point is at Jetty .

The backwaters act as a vital waterway for the transport of goods, people and their produce are often the only link between isolated villages and crowded towns. In Kerala, the total expanse of backwater stretches over 1500 kms, with a network of 44 rivers, lagoons and lakes from north to south. Alleppey which forms the main part of this network has the peculiar geographical feature of having the water in level with the land. This gives the advantage of getting a closer look at the village life on shore while on a backwater ride.

House Boat in Alappuzha

A glide in a "Kettuvallam" (Houseboat) through the enchanting backwaters of Alleppey is sure to rob your heart. Palm fringed narrow canals winding through the vast expanse of paddy fields and the neat tiny hamlets lined up along either sides of the canals are panoramic sights one can never forget. The Chinese fishing nets, the reminiscent of our past trade links, are also found on the way. Flocks of ducks swimming around the banks and tiny birds flying across the sky remains as enduring pictures reflecting the charm of this unique land.

The sparkling water and the caressing cool wind is a temptation too strong to resist. Country boats of various types crisscross the path with passengers from all walks of Kerala's rural life ranging from milkman and newspaper boy to local politicians, priests and wedding parties. It is a unique experience as this is as close as one can get to feel the vibrant life in the countryside of god's own country.

The boat cruise along the backwaters of Alleppey give one first hand experience of the life style; toddy tapping, fishing for small fry, Coir-making, prawn farming etc., which remains more or less unchanged over the years.

Luxury Sitout of a Houseboat

Houseboat : A house boat is about 67 feet in length and has a width of around 13 feet in the middle. The materials that go into the making are all local and Eco friendly bamboo poles, coconut fiber ropes, bamboo mats, coir carpets etc. The main wood used is "Anjili". The house boats have fully furnished single and double rooms with sundeck, private balcony with comfortable chairs, kitchen and toilet with WC. In addition there is also separate rest room for the crew. Traditional lanterns are used as lights. The crew includes a chef and two oarsmen.The cuisine is traditional Kerala flavour with the local specialities; delicious fish and prawns. There are single bedroom houseboats for two people and two bedroom houseboats for four people. Kettuvalloms or Houseboats (Riceboats) are country boats that were used in the early days for the transport of goods from the isolated interior villages to the towns. With the advent of roads, bridges and ferry services, gradually the Kettuvalloms went off the scene. Now these kettuvalloms are back again as a major tourist attraction. A ride on a Kettuvallom is a fabulous way to explore the fascinating beauty of the backwaters.

Palace on Water (Static Houseboat) : This static luxury houseboat has two bedrooms which can accommodate four persons. There is a balcony on top quite convenient to get a feel of the panoramic nature around. A similar balcony is also there below. Another feature is the sundeck for sunbaths. Canoes are always connected to the static houseboat which takes the visitors for backwater cruises.

Boatrace in Vembanad Lake

Boatraces : Alleppey is also known for its spectacular snake - boat races held on the second Saturday of August, every year. Snake boat races are the most significant traditional event in Alappuzha. These spectacular regattas are usually held between August and October, and involve long thin boats powered by up to 120 oarsmen. The most famous snake boat race is the Nehru Trophy Boat Race. This competition - the Nehru boat race takes its name from India's first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru, who inaugurated in 1952. It is excitement all around as snake - boats , each manned by over a hundred oarsmen, cut through the waters like wind. The event is a tremendous success with tourists and the local population alike.

Alappuzha district is proud of being the cradle of boat races. Other important boat races, namely the Payippad near Haripad, the Thiruvandoor, Neerettupuram, Karuvatta and Thaikkoottam boat races are held at different parts of the district during August-September . Thousands of people from all parts of the world come and witness these races.

Krishnapuram Palace : Located at a distance of 47 km from Alappuzha on the way to Kollam, this palace was built in the 18th century during the reign of Marthanda Varma. This palace is noted for its typical Kerala architecture, with gabled roof, dormer windows and narrow corridors. Here you will find the famous mural kept in the western end of the ground floor, called ‘Gajendra Moksham’ which is the largest mural in Kerala. There is also a museum of antique sculptures, paintings and bronze articles in the palace.

Paddy Field in Kuttanad

Kuttanad Region : The region is known as the 'Rice Bowl of Kerala'. It is perhaps the only region in the world where farming is done below sea level. The boat trip to Changanacherry passes through this beautiful and fertile region.

Mullakkal Rajeswari Temple : It is dedicated to the Goddess Rajarajeswari. The nine day 'Navarathri' festival is celebrated twice a year and is of special significance to the people of Alappuzha. Another important festival of the temple is 'Thaipooyakavadi'.

A Hut at Pathiramanal

Pathiramanal : This is a small captivating island in the Vembanad Lake. Situated between Thaneermukkom and Kumarakom, this island is the favourite spot for hundreds of rare migratory birds from different parts of the world.

Ambalapuzha Temple : Constructed in the typical Kerala architectural style, this temple is famous all over India, and is renowned for the Palpayasam, the daily offering of sweet milk porridge. This temple witnesses the performance of Pallipana by Velans (sorcerers) once every twelve years. Paintings of the Dasavatharam (the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu) are displayed on the inner walls of the temple. The 'Ottanthullal', a satiric art form based on social themes was the brain child of the poet Kunchan Nambiar who performed it for the first time in the premises of this temple.

Arthunkal Church : This christian Pilgrim centre near Sherthalai is 22 km. north of alappuzha. The St. Andrews Church here was built by Portuguese missionaries. The annual feast of St. Sebastian is held here in the month of January.

Champakulam : The water logged village is also the place of oldest angadi (market) known as Kalloorkkadu angadi. The St. Mary Forane Church built in 427 A D is another major attraction famous for its beautiful mural paintings for both tourists and believers. In Champakulam you can see Nadubhagum and Champakulam snake boats which take part in the annual snake boat races.

Champakulam Church : The St. Mary's Church is one of the oldest church in Kerala. It is said to be one of the seven churches established by St.Thomas. Tha annual feast is held on the 3rd Sunday of October. The feast of St. Joseph is celebrated on March 19th.

Chavara Bhavan : The ancestral home of the blessed Kuriakose Elias Chavara, lies 6 km. from Alappuzha. Thousands of devotees gather at this shrine. It can be reached only by boat from Alappuzha.

Chettikulangara Bhagavathy Temple, Mavelikkara : The shrine is known for the Kettukazhcha festival, which attracts a large number of devotees. The festival is held in Feb./Mar. and colourful procession is taken out.

Edathua Church : This church, dedicated to St. George is of special significance as it is believed that prayers and offerings here help in healing all kinds of mental disorders and other ailments. The annual feast is held from 5th - 7th May and attracts devotees from all parts of south India. The Church is just 24 kms. from Alappuzha.

Karumadikkuttan : Situated 3 km east of Ambalapuzha, this village is known for its 10th century Karumadikkuttan statue, a black granite figure of the great Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. There are many interesting legends connected to this idol.

Mannarsala : It is 32 kms. from Alappuzha near Haripad and is famous for the ancient temple of Sree Nagaraja, the King of Serpents. Pilgrims from all over the country assemble here during the two day annual festival.

Q S T and R Block Kayal[Lake] : These regions are famous for farming over reclaimed land from the backwaters. The area is protected by dikes built all around and reminds visitors of the famous dikes of Netherlands. A cruise along the canals here is quite a memorable experience.

Punnapra : A short distance from Alappuzha is Punnapra, a village which has gone down in history as the scene of a bitter and heroic fighting between the communists and Travancore State Police during the Punnapra Vayalar Communist uprising of 1946.

Mararikkulam Beach

Mararikulam : Situated on the coast south of Alappuzha,12 Kms. from Alappuzha, it houses a quiet beach and has an adjoining fishing village. Pool, tennis, water sports and Ayurvedic treatments are the leisure time activities one can avail of.

Ambalapuzha : It is situated 14 kms. away from Alleppey. In its architectural features, the Sreekrishna Temple confirms the typical Kerala style. The temple is famous through out Kerala for 'Palpayasam' a milk porridge of exceptional sweetness offered to the deity.

BACKWATERS & HOUSEBOATS | MADE FOR YOU!!

2008-05-26T14:28:00.000-07:00

The Kerala backwaters are a chain of brackish lagoons and lakes lying parallel to the Arabian Sea coast (known as the Malabar Coast) of Kerala state in southern India. The network includes five large lakes linked by canals, both manmade and natural, fed by 38 rivers, and extending virtually half the length of Kerala state. The backwaters were formed by the action of waves and shore currents creating low barrier islands across the mouths of the many rivers flowing down from the Western Ghats range.

Kerala has over 900 km of interconnected waterways, rivers, lakes and inlets that make up the Kerala backwaters. In the midst of this beautiful landscape there are a number of towns and cities, which are the starting and end points of backwater cruises.National Waterway No. 3 from Kollam to Kottapuram, covers a distance of 205 km and runs almost parallel to the coast line of southern Kerala facilitating both cargo movement and backwater tourism.

The backwaters have a unique ecosystem - freshwater from the rivers meets the seawater from the Arabian Sea. In certain areas, such as the Vembanad Kayal, where a barrage has been built near Kumarakom, salt water from the sea is prevented from entering the deep inside, keeping the fresh water intact. Such fresh water is extensively used for irrigation purposes.

Many unique species of aquatic life including crabs, frogs and mudskippers, water birds such as terns, kingfishers, darters and cormorants, and animals such as otters and turtles live in and alongside the backwaters. Palm trees, pandanus shrubs, various leafy plants and bushes grow alongside the backwaters, providing a green hue to the surrounding landscape.

Vembanad Kayal is the largest of the lakes, covering an area of 200 km², and bordered by Alappuzha (Alleppey), Kottayam, and Ernakulam districts. The port of Kochi (Cochin) is located at the lake's outlet to the Arabian Sea. Alleppey, "Venice of the East", has a large network of canals that meander through the town. Vembanad is India’s longest lake.

Small Boat in the Backwaters

HouseBoat in the Backwaters

Scenic View of the Backwaters

Lakeside View I

Lakeside View II

Sunset by the Lake I

Houseboat in Backwaters

Sunset by the Lake II

Houseboat in the Lake

Houseboat Anchored in the Lake

Sunset by the Lake II

Kollam Boat Jetty | Ferry

Houseboat in the Shore

A House by the Shore

Houseboat in the Lake

Connected by artificial canals, the backwaters form an economical means of transport, and a large local trade is carried on by inland navigation. Fishing, along with fish curing is an important industry.

Kerala backwaters have been used for centuries by the local people for transportation, fishing and agriculture. It has supported the efforts of the local people to earn a livelihood. In more recent times, agricultural efforts have been strengthened with reclamation of some backwater lands for rice growing, particularly in the Kuttanad area. Boat making has been a traditional craft, so has been the coir industry.

Paddy fields in the Kuttanad region at a level lower than that of water in the canalKuttanad is crisscrossed with waterways that run alongside extensive paddy fields, as well as fields of cassava, banana and yam. A unique feature of Kuttanad is that many of these fields are below sea level and are surrounded by earthen embankments. The crops are grown on the low-lying ground and irrigated with fresh water from canal and waterways connected to Vembanad lake. The area is similar to the dikes of the Netherlands where land has been reclaimed from the sea and crops are grown.

Vembanad Kol Wetland and Ashtamudi Wetland were included in the list of wetlands of international importance, as defined by the Ramsar Convention for the conservation and sustainable utilization of wetlands.

Kumarakom, which was a sleepy town for years, has been transformed into a busy tourist destination with plush resorts around the Vembanad Kayal and the backwaters.

A Resort At Kumarakom

Houseboat at Kumarakom

COMING NEXT : THE JEWEL OF MIDDLE KERALA | KUMARAKOM

HOUSE OF AYURVEDA | KALARI KOVILAKAM

2008-05-21T19:14:00.000-07:00

Kalari Kovilakam

A REGAL REVOLT | THE LEGEND : The Palace for Ayurveda originated in a royal lady's protest. By the closing years of the 19th century, the old kingdom of Vengunad (part of central Kerala's Malabar region) had become a loose affiliation, ruled by quarrelling chieftans.
They were all joined by blood, separated by discontent and had vastly varying degrees of loyalty to the British East India company.

The pleasant little town of Kollengode, in the Annamalai foothills, had by now it's own Raja (King) who held title to the crescent of fertile farmlands beyond. By all accounts, he had a wasteful and arrogant temperament.

When his niece, Dhatri, at age 20, become the senior lady of Kollengode, she wanted what most people of that age want. A little space. And so, Kalari Kovilakom was born, as a reaction to her uncle's tyranny. Here was a place of seclusion and serene vistas, where the daughters of the family could grow, away from the whims and vagaries of kings.

The palace (or 'kovilakom') that Dhatri built came to be known as 'Kalari', because it was built on a site that contained a ritual space for 'Kalari Payattu', Kerala's ancient martial art. Kalari Kovilakom is the Palace for Ayurveda, perhaps the first and only one of its kind. Its face is the face of the warrior-king, elegant and expansive. But its heart is that of a sage, offering a deep healing, a doorway to the union of the mind, body and spirit.

If the old legends are to be believed, healing is part of Kalari's very soul. Stories are told of a Prince who came to the foothills of Kerala's Annamalai Hills around the 10th century. It seems he was afflicted with a particularly troublesome skin ailment. So he came to cure himself in the healing spring waters of this land. Possibly, he also sought the medicinal Venga tree that grew here in profusion.

Dharmavarman stayed on to found a kingdom, Vengunad, 'The Land of the Venga Tree'. And for all the days to come, his descendants held sway over these silent and green foothills. It was in the 19th century that they built Kalari Kovilakom.

Ayurveda Ingredients | Tools

A New Life : Today, Kalari Kovilakom has been restored and recreated into a unique experience in wellness. Combining the healing experience of India's ancient medicinal system, Ayurveda, with the grace and scale of palace living.

So is it a spa? A Palace hotel? An ayurvedic hospital? An ashram? Kalari is beyond these simply because it is a little of all of these.

The intent and purpose of Kalari Kovilakom is to give you a chance to start your life all over again. Ayurveda, if correctly followed, promises not only a new body and mind, but a deep connection with the spirit. To the ancient Indians, this was a cosmic connection. A chance to be reborn in this life itself.

Shoeless Indulgences : To stay true to the traditions of the palace, no meat, leather footwear or alcohol are allowed at Kalari. You will see echoes of Ashram-like austerity. Yet, enjoy a rare level of amenities and service, part 21st century comfort, part 19th century romance. The original dwellings of the lords and ladies of Vengunad are still yours to delight in, unchanged from times past.

The kovilakam is restored as authentically, adding many modern facilities, without compromising the Palace's original character. The air-conditioning, the luxury bath fittings and the four - poster beds will certainly lull you, but they shouldn't mislead you. For Kalari offers unvarnished ayurveda, administered in its purest form, in accordance with millennia-old texts and traditions.

The Healing Touch of Pure Ayurveda : At Kalari, every therapy is personal. Treatments are customised for you doctors, often combined with yoga and other methods to provide deep healing from within and without. Every treatment is based on your needs and your ayurvedic body type. Even the food you're served is individual, with health drinks and herbal preparations that vary with your treatment.

The result is nothing less than a return to the womb. There are no game rooms, no shopping expeditions, no television sets. The evenings are alive with chanting and hymns, unsullied by the sounds of the city. In fact, apart from these post-dinner gatherings where guests and staff alike participate, there is nothing, absolutely nothing, to disturb your new-found inner silence.

You are in a space like no other on earth that we know of. An atmosphere that makes you conscious only of the potentials within, being slowly unlocked as your therapies progress.

Performing Dhara

Below given are the current programmes available in KALARI KOVILAKAM.

Anti Ageing | Rasayana Chikitsa : Aims at keeping the enzymes in the tissue cells in their normal functioning condition. The cells are revitalized and their composition is changed. The nerves and bones are kept soft and smoothened; tranquility of the mind is promoted. This prevents the process of ageing and makes the individual free from diseases even at an advanced age.

Ayurveda is not only a science, but also an art of appropriate living, which helps to achieve longevity. It can guide every individual in the proper choice of diet, living habits and exercise to restore balance in the body, mind and consciousness, thus preventing disease.

According to authentic Ayurvedic textbooks, rejuvenation must be done only after detoxifying the body. Keeping this principle, Kalari Kovilakam developed a special treatment programme, which goes well with the present lifestyle.

In this Anti ageing programme, the first 2 weeks are reserved for a cleansing treatment to eliminate the toxins. Then, the rejuvenation treatments start, with medicines and diet. Our programme is based on the prime treatment in ayurveda for reducing the aging processes, arresting the degeneration of the body cells and increasing the immunity of the system.

Anti Stress Programme | Manasanthy : It is a proven fact that the mind plays an important role in governing not just the actions we take, but their qualitative nature, ie, how well or badly we act. Anything which manipulates the mind will thus reflect on the body. People facing a lot of stress from their hectic lives thus end up with not only mental, but a host of physical problems too, usually called 'lifestyle diseases'.

Treatment in Ayurveda

Ayurveda, combined with Yoga offers the perfect answer for this. At Kalari Kovilakam, they have developed a special 14 days programme called 'Manasanthy', based on these two ancient systems of wellness. This programme is beneficial for those who are physically and mentally stressed, and/or suffer from conditions like insomnia, lack of concentration, fatigue, tension headaches and so on.

General Rejuvenation - Pancha karma : Panch karma is the classic 5-point revitalisation treatment that's gaining worldwide fame these days Although Panchakarma is often thought of as the entire procedure, it really is one part of a group of therapies belonging to a class of cleansing procedures called 'shodhana'. At Kalari, the Panchkarma process is more intensive, following closely the early texts of Ayurveda like the Charaka Samhita and the Sushruta Samhita.

Poorva Karma | Pre Purification Measures : Before the actual processes of purification begins, there is a need to prepare the body in prescribed methods and encourage the body to let go of the toxins.

Pradhana Karma - Main Procedure : There are five basic Shodhanas, or cleansing methods.

Nasyam [ Elimination of toxins through the nose.]
Vamanam [ Therapeutic vomiting.]
Virechanam [ Purgation.]
Vasthy [ Enema.]
Rakthamoksham [ Detoxification of the blood.]

Paschat Karma | Post Purification Measures : It is important to follow a diet and lifestyle that is harmonious with one's constitution. If not patients could worsen their condition by suppressing the renewed healing energies. The toxins may then directly enter cleansed tissues and go deeper than before.

Slimming Programme | Thaulyakna Chikilsa : Diet pills lower the body's fat set points by speeding up the organism, making both body and brain work faster. This increases Vata, which makes both body and mind crave for more sweets to balance.

Ayurveda believes in speeding up organism in healthy natural ways, with treatments to increase fat metabolism, exercise, herb-based diet supplements and the use of light non-kapha producing foods, which control vata while relieving the system of excess kapha.

Food Served in Kalari

Food For The Inner You : 'You are what you eat' isn't just granny's favourite saying. It's one of the key underlying principles of Ayurveda. Ayurvedic diets, contrary to common belief, do not prohibit meats or wines. Rather, they stress moderation, and selection of foods in harmony with your body type.

Ayurveda also gives us the unique idea of food as medicine. The ancients believed that a person's diet had the power to cure many ailments, large and small.

A Dispensary of Taste : Kalari Kovilakom's pure Ayurvedic kitchen is a shrine to ideas first outlined by the ayurvedic physicians of more than a thousand years ago. Foods are prepared in brass, iron or clay vessels only. And chef Nayaranan Kutty weaves his pure vegetarian magic with only the minimum of oil and almost no chillis.

You may find your first meal at Kalari somewhat bland, specially if you're a curry lover or a steak-eggs-ketchup-and-mustard kind of person. But within a day or two, something strange happens. Your palate softens, becomes more sensitive. Suddenly, the subtle flavours of pure spices and fresh tropical vegetables begin to come to the fore. Each meal becomes a medley of subtle textures and aromas, rather than the taste assaults most of us are used to. Even better, you need to eat less and less to feel completely sated!

Fresh Air for Starters : A meal in Kalari's pillar-framed, breezy dining area usually begins with tumblers of lukewarm, herb-medicated waters, your serving being based on your body type and our physician's recommendation. This helps to prime the stomach, readying it for the food to follow.

The highlight of the meal is next, a gleaming brass thali. It arrives covered in a banana leaf section, sliced to fit, and offset by rows of glistening katoris, or cups.

Working with your treatments in mind, chef Narayanan conjures up a harmony of tastes. A raw sprout and onion salad may be balanced with a creamy dish of the local bitter gourd. And a mound of the steaming, fibre-rich red rice could be complemented with a thick lentil and dry jackfruit combo. Whole wheat chapatis or dosas (Indian unleavened breads) could be served up with a piquant, low-spice sambar.

As with all the treatments at Kalari, our diet programmes are designed to stay with you long after you leave. Based on your ayurvedic body type, our physicians create comprehensive lists of foods that favour you and those that don't. So if you can choose to be a little more conscious, you can easily carry your new-found sense of well- being into all your future meals.

GETTING THERE : Kalari Kovilakom Palace is located in the old princely capital town of Kollengode in the foothills of the Annamalai range, Kerala, India.

The nearest International Airport is Cochin, 105 km, or about two-and-a-half hours drive away. Coimbatore Airport. is 75 km away and Palghat is the nearest railway station (on the Mumbai-Trivandrum route), a mere hours' drive.

Seasons

Jan - Mar | These months are cool (well, 28-34 C) and dry
Apr - May | Peak summer.
June - Aug | These are the Monsoon (rainy) months. In ayurveda, this is considered a specially good time for healing.
Sept - Dec | A pleasant and dry period, usually the main tourist season.

Accommodation

18 palatial suites that offer the experience of authentic palace living.
The Old Guest Wing, with '20s colonial Western-styled rooms.
The Palace Wing, which has traditional Kerala architecture reminiscent of the 'zenana'.

Culinary Experience : Ayurvedic vegetarian food, prepared in a pure Ayurvedic kitchen. The food served to you is based on your therapies, constitution & treatments and varies accordingly.

Healing and Wellness

Ayurvedic Rejuvenation Therapy: 14-, 21- and 28- day Ayurveda experiences.
Rejuvenative and therapeutic programmes.
Anti-ageing.
Beauty and skin treatments.
Anti-stress therapies.
Personalised yoga.
Training and demonstrations of Kalaripayattu.
Kerala's traditional Martial Art.

For more details visit
www.kalarikovilakam.com

KERALA WILDLIFE -II | SILENT VALLEY

2008-05-20T19:19:00.000-07:00

Silent Valley National Park : Situated in the Palakkad district of Kerala. Silent Valley in Kerala is considered India's last area of tropical evergreen rain forest and is a precious biodiversity resource, which you can visit on tours with Kerala Backwater. Threatened by the construction of a dam across the Kunti River, which flows out of Silent Valley National Park, during the 1970's, Silent Valley was rescued as a result of an agitation by environmentalists and conservationists in Kerala.

Situated in the Kundali Hills, 40 Km from Mannarkkad, in the Western Ghats in Kerala, Silent Valley National Park is one of the few remaining pristine forest areas in the Western Ghats. It was declared a National Park in 1980 and is the core area of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Called Silent Valley because the loud calls of Cicadas heard elsewhere in this region are not heard here, Silent Valley has an amazing range of wildlife.

Tigers, deer, and mammals native to the South Indian Peninsula, such as the Nilgiri Langur, Malabar Giant Squirrel, Lion-Tailed Macaque, Flying squirrel and Civet Cat are found in Silent Valley National Park. You can enjoy observing these rare animals and many more in Silent Valley National Park on a tour with Kerala backwater.

Silent Valley is home to the largest population of Lion-tailed Macaque.
Public controversy over their habitat led to establishment of Silent Valley National Park.

FLORA : The flora of the valley include about a 1000 species of flowering plants, 108 species of orchids, 100 ferns and fern allies, 200 liverworts, 75 lichens and about 200 algae. A majority Of these plants are endemic to the Western Ghats.

In addition to facilitating recharge of the aquifer, water retention of the catchment basin and preventing soil erosion, every plant in the park from the smallest one celled algae to the largest tree in the forest has unknown potential for beneficial innovations in biotechnology.

More than 100 butterflies species and 400 moth species have also been observed in Silent Valley National Park. Birds such as the Malabar Hornbill, Great Indian Hornbill, hoopoes, tree pie, barbets, crow pheasant, woodpeckers, rollers, drongoes, kingfishers and parakeets can be seen in abundance in Silent Valley National park. Many varieties of snakes, amphibians and lizards can also be seen in Silent Valley.

There are more than 110 species of plants in Silent Valley National Park, including many plants that are known for their medicinal properties. The best time to visit Silent Valley is from September to March, during the pleasant winter.

Flowering Plants : Angiosperm flora currently identified here include 966 species belonging to 134 families and 599 genera. There are 701 Dicotyledons distributed among 113 families and 420 genera. There are 265 Monocotyledons here distributed among 21 families and 139 genera. Families best represented are the Orchids with 108 species including the rare, endemic and highly endangered orchids Ipsea malabarica, Bulbophyllum silentvalliensis and Eria tiagii, Grasses (56), Legumes (55), Rubiaceae (49) and Asters (45). There are many rare, endemic and economically valuable species, such as cardamom Ellettaria cardamomum, black pepper Piper nigrum, yams Dioscorea spp., beans Phaseolus sp., a pest-resistant strain of rice Oryza Pittambi, and 110 plant species of importance in Ayurvedic medicine.[34] Seven new plant species have been recorded from Silent Valley, including in 1996, Impatiens sivarajanii, a new species of Balsaminaceae.

Trees : Occurrence of lion-tailed macaque is dependent on the flowering of Cullenia exarillata in the forest. Six distinct tree associations have been described in the valley. Three are restricted to the southern sector: (Cullenia exarillata & Palaquium ellipticum), (Palaquium ellipticum & Mesua ferrea(Indian rose chestnut) and (Mesua ferrea & Calophyllum elatum). The remainder are confined to the central and northern parts of the Park: (Palaquium ellipticum & Poeciloneuron indicum), (Calophyllum elatum & Ochlandra sp.) and (Poeciloneuron indicum & Ochlandra sp.).

A study of natural regeneration of 12 important tree species of Silent Valley tropical rain forests showed good natural regeneration of all 12 species. The species studied were Palaquium ellipticum, Cullenia exarillata, Poeciloneuron indicum, Myristica dactyloides, Elaeocarpus glandulosus, Litsea floribunda, Mesua nagassarium, Cinnamomum malabatrum, Agrostistachys meeboldii, Calophyllum polyanthum, Garcinia morella and Actinodaphne campanulata.

Recent selective felling of three trees per acre, has led to the cutting of 48,000 m³ of timber from about 20 km². There is a huge hollow Kattualying tree here which can fit 12 people inside.

FONA

Birds : Birdlife International lists 16 bird species in Silent Valley as threatened or restricted: Nilgiri Wood-pigeon, Malabar Parakeet, Malabar Grey Hornbill, White-bellied Treepie, Grey-headed Bulbul, Broad-tailed Grassbird, Rufous Babbler, Wynaad Laughing Thrush, Nilgiri Laughing Thrush, White-bellied Shortwing, Black-and-rufous Flycatcher, Nilgiri Flycatcher, White-bellied Blue-flycatcher, Crimson-backed Sunbird and Nilgiri pipit.

Rare bird species found here include Ceylon Frogmouth and Great Indian Hornbill. The 2006 winter bird survey discovered Long-legged Buzzard, a new species of raptor at Sispara, the park's highest peak.

The survey found 10 endangered species recorded in the IUCN Red List including the Red winged crested cuckoo, Malabar Pied Hornbill, Pale harrier. The area is home to 15 endemic species including the Black-and-orange Flycatcher. It recorded 138 species of birds including 17 species that were newly observed in the Silent Valley area. The most abundant bird was the Black bulbul.

GAUR

Mammals : Gaur, largest of all wild cattle.There are at least 34 species of mammals at Silent Valley including the threatened Lion-tailed Macaque, Niligiri Langur, Malabar Giant Squirrel, Nilgiri Tahr, Peshwa’s Bat (Myotis peshwa) and Hairy-winged Bat. There are nine species of bats, rats and mice.

Distribution and demography of all diurnal primates were studied in Silent Valley National Park and adjacent areas for a period of three years from 1993 to 1996. Fourteen troops of lion-tailed macaque, eighty-five troops of Nilgiri langur, fifteen troops of bonnet macaque and seven troops of Hanuman langur were observed. Of these, the Nilgiri langur was randomly distributed, whereas the lion-tailed macaque troops were confined to the southern sector of the Park. Bonnet macaques and Hanuman langurs were occasional visitors. The Silent Valley forest remains one of the most undisturbed viable habitats left for the endemic and endangered primates lion-tailed macaque and Nilgiri langur.

The tiger, leopard (panther), leopard cat, jungle cat, fishing cat, Common Palm Civet, Small Indian Civet, Brown Palm Civet, Ruddy Mongoose, Stripe-necked Mongoose, Dhole, clawless otter, sloth bear, small travancore flying squirrel, Indian pangolin (scaly anteater), porcupine, wild boar, sambar, spotted deer, barking deer, mouse deer and gaur also live here.

Insects : There are at least 730 identified species of insects in the park. The maximum number of species belong to the orders Lepidoptera and Coleoptera. Many unclassified species have been collected and there is a need for further studies. 33 species of crickets and grasshoppers have been recorded of which one was new. 39 species of true bugs (six new) and two species of Homoptera (both new) have been recorded. 128 species of beetles including 10 new species have been recorded.

Over 128 species of butterflies and 400 species of moths live here. A 1993 study found butterflies belonging to 9 families. The families Nymphalide and Papilionidae contained the maximum number of species. 13 species were endemic to South India, including 5 species having protected status. 7 species of Butterflies were observed migrating in a mixed swarm of thousands of butterflies towards the Silent Valley National Park.

In one instance an observer noted several birds attempting to catch these butterflies. The bird species included the Pied Bushchat Saxicola caprata, Nilgiri Pipit Anthus nilghiriensis, Tickell's Warbler Phylloscopus affinis, Greenish Leaf-Warbler Phylloscopus trochiloides and the Oriental White-eye Zosterops palpebrosa.At least 500 species of earthworms and leeches have also been identified in the park.

Climate : Silent Valley gets copious amounts of rainfall during the monsoons, but the actual amount varies within the region due the varied topography. The mean annual rainfall ranges from over 5000 mm in the Neelikal area in the west to around 3200 mm on the eastern side of the park. The park being completely enclosed within a ring of hills, has its own micro-climate and probably receives some convectional rainfall, in addition to rain from two monsoons. In general the rainfall is higher at higher altitude and decreases from the west to east due to the rain shadow effect.

Eighty per cent of the rainfall occurs during the south-west monsoon between June and September. It also receives significant amount of rainfall during the north-east monsoon between October and November. The mean annual temperature is 20.2 °C. The hottest months are April and May when the mean temperature is 23 °C and the coolest months are January and February when the mean temperature is 18o C. Because of the high rainfall, the relative humidity is consistently high (above 95%) between June and December.

The nearest airport to Silent Valley National Park is Coimbatore in Tamil Nadu, which is 55 Km away. By road Silent Valley is 40 Km from Mannarkkad and there are regular bus services. Enjoy a trip to the biodiversity rich Silent Valley National Park with Kerala Backwater.

KERALA WILDLIFE - 1 | IDUKKI

2008-05-19T05:25:00.001-07:00

IDUKKI WILDLIFE SANCTUARY : This sanctuary extends over the Thodupuzha and Udumpanchola taluks of Idukki district spreading over 105 Sq. Km. at 450 - 748m above sea level. The Idukki reservoir formed by three dams-Cheruthoni, Idukki and Kulamavu-extends to 33 sq km.

Animals : Elephants, Poorcu Pine, Sambar Deer, Wild dogs,Jungle cats, Malabar Gaint Squirrel, Wild boar etc.

Snakes : Cobra, Viper, Krait and a large number of non- poisonous snakes

Birds : Jungle fowl, Myna, Laughing thrush, Black bulbul, Peafowl, Wood pecker, King fisher etc.

CHINNAR WILDLIFE SANCTUARY : Lying in Devikulam Taluk of Idukki district, chinnar was declared as a wildlife sanctuary in 1984. It is located in the rain shadow region of Western Ghats. It is the second habitat for the endangered Giant Grizzled Squirell in India. With an area of 90.422 sq kms, Chinnar has the unique thorny scrub forest with Xerophytic species.

The undulated terrain with rocky patches increase the scenic splendour of the sanctuary. As the altitute varies from 500 to 2400 metres within a few kilo metre radius, there is a drastic variation in the climate and vegetation. The highest peaks are Kottakombumalai (2144 metre), Vellaikal malai(1863m), Viriyoottu malai(1845 metre). Unlike in most forests of Kerala, Chinnar gets only about 48 rainy days in a year-during October - November (North - East Monsoons). The forest types comprise thorny scrub forests, dry deciduous forests, high sholas and wet grasslands

Flora : The following species are found in the thorny scrub forests : - Acacia arabica (Karivelam) Acacia leucofolia (Velvelam) Acacia concinna (Cheevaka) Prosopis juliflora (Prosopis) Opuntia dillenii (Kallimul)

Dry Delicious Forests : Santalum album (chandanam), Anogeissus latifolia (Mazhukanjiram), Tamarindus Indica(Puli), Terminalia arjuna (nirmaruthu), Pongamia glabra (pongau) Largerstoemia lanceolata (Ventheku), Dalbergia latifio(Rosewood), Tectona grandis (Teak), Cassia fistula (Konna), Terminalia bellerica (Thanni), Emblica officianalis (Nelli) etc. are the common species.

High Sholas And Wetlands : Rhododendrom Nilagiricum (Kattu chemparathi), Elaeocarpus recurvatus (Bhadraksam), Strobillanthus kunthianus (Neelakurunji) grow in these areas.

Fauna : Elephant, Gaur, Panther, Spotted deer, Sambar, Giant Grizzled Squirrel, Hanuman monkey, Rabbit etc. inhabit the Chinnar forests. The Giant Grizzled Squirrel is an endangered species. It is dull gray in color.

WildLife Tourism : The Chinnar sanctuary is accessible by good roads from the Airports of Coimbatore and Kochi. The nearest railway stations are Aluva(200 km) and Pollachi(60km)

As you travel along the road from Karimutti to Chinnar, you can spot elephant, spotted deer, sambar, hanuman monkey and even peacocks on either side of the road . This is a unique experience because generally one has to go deep into the jungle to see wildlife as in the case of most other sanctuaries.

PERIYAR TIGER RESERVE : Getting to Thekkady is as sublime as the destination itself. A Scenic journey past mistcapped Mountains, spice plantations and open grasslands lined with spectacular waterfalls and delightful trekking trails forms the access to your hideaway here. Perched amidst dense greenery in the outskirts of the Periyar Tiger Reserve; Throwing up pleasant surprises like wild boars scuttling across the road in front, as you near the sanctuary. Which, sprawling across 777sq.kms, is one of the largest in India. With its matchless scenic beauty and the facilities offered by the Periyar lake formed by the damming of the Periyar river attracts a lot of tourists every year.

The sanctuary spreads over an area of 673 sq.km and is situated at a height of 900 to 1800 meters above mean sea level. Facilities are available for cruising in this lake. Wild animals seen here include elephants, bisons, sambar, monkeys and wild bear. Fortunate visitors can have a glimpse of the tigers foraging in the area. How ever on sunny summer days one can sight herds of wild elephants bathing in the lake. However the bisons are a wary and hardy lot and usually never allow any intruder to approach them.

The sound of the motor boats scare them away. But a keen animal lover can stay in the few observation towers for a few days and luck will surely come in their way. Some of the famous tea gardens are located around this place. Further Peermade 43 k.m below Thekkady offers a golf-course and Peermade offers excellent facilities for stay.

Thekkady-the very sound of the name conjures up images of elephants, unending chains of hills and spice scented plantations. Here 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 unsophisticated 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.

FASCINATING CULTURE OF KERALA - II

2008-05-19T04:44:00.000-07:00

The EVERGREEN paradise Land that sprung from the oceans!

Kerala is believed to have sprung up from the depth of the Arabian sea when lord PARASURAMA, the incarnation of Vishnu heaved his axe in remorse to the wanton destruction and cruelty he had wrought upon the KSHATRIYA's in a war. The Brahmin had offered severe penance atop the mountains of the Western Ghats.

Man has inhabited this land from time immemorial. Like many other civilizations, the origin of culture of in Kerala is shrouded in the mist of time. Many theories exist as to its development but none have confirmed with any substantial merits the anthropology of the state. But what is most distinct is the fact that Kerala has been the most cosmopolitan and peace loving state in India. It has served as a melting pot for the cultures from the orient and the occident.

A flourishing market of spices, she was called upon by the ships from all continents to collect the valuables and riches that made them. Ancient roman statesmen even chided their citizens for the extravaganza they showed in procuring luxuries from Kerala. Nowhere else in the world, not even in the most urban centers of the developed world would you find people with such divers cultural and religious background living together in friendly and peaceful manner. When the Jews were driven out of central Asia during the BC's, they came to Kerala.

When St.Thomas came here, he was amazed at the religious liberty given by the state to all its people. He established a church in Kerala in the year 52 AD when even Constantinople did not have a church. When prophet Muhammad founded Islam, Keralites embraced it and the kings here invited Arabic architects to raise mosques out of the sand.

This tolerance of cultural values have persisted through the ages precisely for the reasons of antiquity, unity, continuity and universality of its nature. In its widest sense it embraces the highest achievements of the human spirit in every sphere of life. Thus, in its totality, it represents the quintessence of the collective achievements of a people in the fields of religion and philosophy, language and literature, art and architecture, education and learning and economic and social organization.

In fact, all through its history the genius of Kerala has blossomed forth in all its vigor and vitality and has helped its people to reach the peak of excellence in all their endeavors.

Life in Kerala : A festival of COLORS and FLAVORS!

Life in Kerala is one of the finest in the world. The social indices in Kerala point to a figure of excellence that envies even states from Europe. Its festivals and festivities have woven together an intricate pattern of colors, flavors and the spirit of life. Kerala has a wealth of folklore, folktales, folk songs, folk arts, folk beliefs, taboos and superstitions. You will come to read more about them in the ensuing links.

KERALA : A MURAL from the HEAVENS...

Kerala is blessed with the natural bounties like air water and fertile land. Sandwiched between the mountains on the east and the vast oceans in the west, she has 44 rivers cutting across her length of 500 kms. 41 of them are west flowing and 3 of them are east flowing. They are rain fed by the monsoons every year, which paints a fresh coat of green on everything that springs from her surface. Waterfalls like the silver ornaments on a woman’s hair daunt the mountains and down below, her palm-fringed shores are kissed by the waves from the Arabian ocean.

The coastal state of Kerala lying on the Southwestern tip of India has commonly been called the tropical paradise of India. Bounded by Arabian Sea at one side and the Western Ghats on the other, the beautiful land with stunning beauty has an equable and tropical climate offering a pleasing atmosphere throughout the entire year. This coastal state has hot and humid climate during April-May and pleasant, cold climate in December-January.

Summer extends from the month of April to June when the temperature reaches to a maximum of 33 degrees centigrade. Summer is followed by South West Monsoon that starts pouring in the month of June and continues till September. With the arrival of winter there is certain drop in the temperature and you can feel a slight chill due to the cold wind. Winter in Kerala lasts from from November to January or February.

The topography and the geographical relief features are marked by distinct changes from east to west and consists of-
The Western Ghats- The mighty Western Ghats, a sequence of Rocky Mountains, edges the eastern boundary of Kerala and ascends roughly up to 1,500 m above sea level with the lofty peaks rising up to 2,500 m.

Hill and Valleys- The narrow piece of land on the eastern border, close to the Western Ghats, encompasses precipitous hills, deep valleys and gorges which are covered with thick woods. Almost all the rivers of the state originate here.

Midland Plains- These plains which lie along central Kerala, are located in the west of the hills and mountains.

Coastal Belt-The narrow belt of coastal land along the Arabian Sea is characterized by paddy fields, rows of coconut trees and serene, and backwaters internally linked by rivers and inland waterways.

Backwaters and Rivers-The Backwaters consists of lakes and inlets of oceans which straggle out in the land. The largest backwater is the Vembanad Lake which stretches out into the Arabian Sea at Cochin Port. There are 49 river/lakes flowing in the state of Kerala, among them 46 flows to the west and the other 3 flow to the east. They evolve from Western Ghats and rush towards the west into the Arabian Sea.

Rivers, Lakes and Backwaters - Kerala, the South Western state of Indian Peninsula can be rightly called the land of water bodies with numerous majestic waterfalls and calm backwaters, 34 lakes with sparkling azure and emerald waters, and 49 rain-fed river/lakes with copious tributaries and distributaries flowing through the land. A large number of lakes form superb destinations for backwater tours in Kerala.

The still waters of the serene lakes offer a feeling of tranquility amidst nature and one seems to get lost in the world of his own thoughts. Some of these lakes are Sasthamkotta Lake, Vembanad Lake, The Ashtamudi Lake, Pookot Lake and Akkulam Lake.

Soil and Vegetation-The state of Kerala with its wide array of topographical features such as coastlines along the Arabian Sea, hills of the Western Ghats, valleys, abundant water bodies ,is the reserve of diverse types of soil such as red, ferruginous, sandy, black, peat and loamy soil. There are an assortment of flora and other plantation crops which grow in these soils. The natural vegetation of Kerala comprises 3,872 flowering plants including 900 plants of great medicinal value.

The forested regions with an area of 9,400 km comprises tropical wet evergreen partly-evergreen forests with thick undergrowth in the lower and mid altitudes, tropical damp and arid deciduous forests in the middle altitudes plus mountainous subtropical and temperate (shola) forests in the precipitous hills. Kerala basically thrives on agriculture.

The main crops are paddy, coconut, pepper, cashew, cassava and plantation crops like rubber and cash crops are tea and coffee, spices, nutmeg, vanilla and cashew nut.