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Spiced Peas in My Kerala

I have a secret love affair with peas. Yes, I love them in their fresh-from-the-pod form, but during the winter months, I use their frozen cousins. I spice them in my favorite manner, similar to a dish I had in Cochin, Kerala, in Southern India, and eat them up with a large spoon, stopping only for a quick bite of naan or dollop of raita.

 This dish is a perfect accompaniment for something hearty like a braised meat or stewed lentils because of its decided spice and bright lemony flavors. It's dishes like this that I feel best about having up my sleeve, because a plate of these peas can turn even a bowl of pasta into a trip down the backwaters of Kerala. I love being transported by food. I would argue it's one of the best ways to relive exciting journeys or entice yourself into an unknown locale by making some of the country's fare.

Do you do this? Travel with your palate into unknown cuisines? I'd like to make more of a habit of it. For now, I'm happy with a simple recipe great for a weeknight dinner. Taking a familiar ingredient and dressing it in South Indian flavors? A wonderful idea!

                                         

Kerala Spiced Peas
serves 6

2 tablespoons ghee (ghee is clarified butter and imparts a unique flavor here)
2 teaspoons cumin seeds
1 teaspoon mustard seeds
1/2 teaspoon coriander
1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
1 green thai chili, minced (more if you like it really spicy)
1 onion, sliced
One 1-pound bag frozen peas
2 tablespoons fresh ginger
3-4 garlic cloves, minced
salt and pepper to taste
juice from one lemon
cilantro (optional garnish)

Places Worship in my Kerala

Pilgrimage in Kerala

Ernakulathappan Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the prominent shrines in Ernakulam of Kerala. It is believed to have built by a local ruler, Tusath Kaimal

Legend holds that Arjuna, one among the Pandavas, did a severe penance here to propitiate Lord Shiva. Pleased with Arjuna's devotion, Lord Shiva in the form of Kiratha set out from his abode to bless Arjuna. At this juncture, a demon named Mookasura in disguise of a wild boar appears there and both Lord Shiva and Arjuna shoot arrows at the demon. Then the quarrel arises between Kiratha and Arjun, as who killed the demon. Finally, the quarrel leads to a vigorous fight between Arjuna and Kiratha. Later, Arjun, vanquished by Kiratha, makes a Shivling and offers flowers to it. To his surprise, all the flowers fell over Kiratha's head. Then Shiva in his true form along with Parvati appears and blesses him and gifts him the divine arrow 'Pasupathastram'.

Ernakulathappan Temple is located 7 kms from Kochi (Cochin)

Situated in Tripunithura, a tranquil temple town, located about 6 kms from the city of Kochi, Poornathrayeesa temple is presided over by Lord Vishnu, known as Poornathrayeesa. The Lord is the family deity of the erstwhile Kochi dynasty.

Lord Vishnu, here, is worshipped as Poornathrayeesa “thra" means three; 'poorna' means complete and 'isa' means Iswara which means the Lord of Knowledge, or the Lord of the Three Vedas – Rik, Yajus and Sama. It also means the Lord who manifests himself as the essence of the Vedas, who can be attained through inner saadhana

Vishnu, here, is worshipped as 'Santanagopala Moorthy', or the protector of kids. The temple is believed to have come into existence in 'Dwapara Yuga', about 5000 years ago.

Unlike other Vishnu temples, where the Lord is seen as reclining on Anantha, here, the Lord is seen in a unique pose. He is sitting on Anantha, who spreads his majestic hood over the Lord. It is said that, when Krishna and Arjuna reached Vaikuntam, the Lord got up from his serpent bed to receive them.

Sree Poornathrayeesa Temple is located 11 kms from Kochi (Cochin)

Temple is a famous temple of the Hindu mother goddess Bhagawati. The temple is located near Ernakulam in the southern Indian state of Kerala and is one of the most popular temples in the state, along with Sabarimala. Bhagawati is one of the most popular deities in the area, Chottanikkara Devi is worshipped at the temple, in three different forms: as Saraswati in the morning, draped in white; as Lakshmi at noon, draped in crimson; and as Durga in the evening, decked in blue. Lord Shivais also worshiped at the temple.People suffering from mental illnesses commonly visit the temple, as Bhagawati is thought to cure her devotees. One should not miss the 'Guruthi Pooja' in the 'Keezhkkaavu' temple at Chottanikkara. This is a ritual done at late evening to invoke the goddess. Earlier 'Guruthi Pooja' was done only on Fridays. But nowadays, it is performed everyday.

'Chottanikara Makam thozhal' is the famous religious festival in the temple

Chottanikkara Temple is located 17 kms from Kochi (Cochin)

The Vaikom Mahadeva Temple is a temple for the Hindu god Shiva in Vaikom, Kerala. The temple, along with Ettumanoor Siva Temple, Kaduthuruthy Thaliyil Mahadeva Temple is considered a powerful trisome. The belief is that if a devotee worships at these three temples before 'Ucha pooja', all the wishes are fulfilled.

The Vaikom Mahadeva temple is one of the few temples which is held in reverence by both Shaivaites and the Vaishnavaites. Vaikom’s Shiva is fondly called Vaikkathappan. The Shiva Linga here is believed to be from the ‘Treta yuga’ and considered as one of the oldest temples in Kerala where pooja has not been broken since inception

Vaikom Temple is located 33 kms from Kochi (Cochin)

The Malliyoor Sree MahaGanapathy Temple in Kottayam district, Kerala is the sacred abode of the all - encompassing divine presence of Lord Ganesha and also a coveted destination of lakhs of pilgrims from all over India. The endearing elephant - headed Lord Ganesha, the son of Siva and Parvathy, enjoys prime place among all the gods in the Hindu pantheon. He is Parabrahma incarnate, the God of Wisdom and Learning, the Remover of all Obstacles and is worshipped first, any other god. The Malliyoor Sree MahaGanapathy Temple is in comparable in the conception of the presiding deity as Vaishnava Ganapathy, with a young Sree Krishna seated on the lap of Lord Ganesha. This unique and powerful infusion of the Vaishnava spirit in the Ganesha idol is the supreme achievement of the devoted penance of the much-revered main priest of the temple, Brahmasree Bhagavathahamsam Malliyoor Sankaran Nampoothiri. Today thousand of devotees flock to the feet of Vasihnava Ganapthy at Malliyoor seeking eternal salvation form the bonds of Karama and solace from the evils of Kaliyuga.

Malliyoor Temple is located 56 kms from Kochi (Cochin)

The ancient Siva Ettumanoor Mahadevar Temple here has brought glory and fame to the place. Myths have it that the Pandavas and the sage Vyasa had worshipped at this temple. The name of the place had its origin from the word 'manoor', which means the home of deer.

The present temple building, with its gopuram and the fortress around it, was reconstructed in 717 ME (1542 AD). There are Dravidian mural paintings on the walls inside and outside of the main entrance. The fresco of Pradosha Nritham (Dance of Shiva) is one of the finest Wall painting in India. There is a golden flag staff inside the temple. On the top of it is the idol of a bull surrounded by small bells and metal leaves of the banyan tree. The temple roofs are covered with copper sheets and it has 14 ornamental tops. Bhagavati, Sastha, Ganapathy and Yakshi are installed here as subordinate deities. It is believed that the great philosopher, Sankaracharya wrote the 'Soundaraya Lahari' staying in the temple.

The famous Ettumanoor Mahadevar Temple hosts the arattu festival celebrated on a grand scale on the Thiruvathira day in February–March every year. Lot of people come to this temple on the 8th and 10th day of the festival when seven and half elephants (in Malayalam: ezharaponnaana) made of gold (nearly 13 kg) will be held in public view.this statue was donated to the temple by a travancore maharaja. The temple, the wealthiest Devaswom in Kerala, has many valuable possessions.

Ettumanoor Temple is located 57 kms from Kochi (Cochin)

Situated very near Alappuzha (Alleppy), the Ambalapuzha Sri Krishna temple is believed to be one of the seven great Vaishnava shrines in the former Travancore State .

This temple is full of legends and stories regarding the origin of the main diety of the Shrine. According to local legend, when Vilvaman Swamy, as ardent devotee of Sri.Krishna and a scholar, and the Maharaja of Travancore, the Pooradam Thirunal Thampuran, were cruising in the Kuttannadan backwaters, they heard sweet music to the accomplishment of a flute from the top of banyan tree. Peering anxiously, the thampuran could not see anything, while Vilvamangalam was astonished to behold a bright glow and the form of Bala Murali Krishna.

Overwhelmed with joy, the sage forgot himself, enjoyed the melodious music till the bright glow disappeared. As desired by the Swamiyar, a beautiful temple of architectural grandeur was constructed on the spot by the Maharaja. A beautiful idol of Bala Gopala Krishna was also made of solid stone. Thantri Kudiyakkol Namboodiri, was chosen as the priest for the occasion.

To the surprise of every one present, Puthumana Valiya Namboodaripad, another Thantri, Vehemently objected to the consecration of the idol and shouted that it was defective and unfit for installation for worship as the deity. When the arguments reached the climax to prove the defect in the idol, Thantri Puthumana struck mildly on a scar found on the left side of the idol. As if it was a strong miracle, that particular part struck split into a cavity and streams of dirty water and a good number of frogs began to flow out form the part. Thus, the installation and consecration ceremony of the idol had to be abandoned.

Ambalapuzha Temple is located 69 kms from Kochi (Cochin)

one of the ancient temples of South India, is popularly described as Sabarimala of the Women, as women form the major portion of devotees. The Goddess in the temple of Attukal is worshipped as the Supreme Mother, creator of all living beings and the mighty preserver as well as destroyer of them all. The pilgrims from all over the country, who visit Sree Padmanabha Swamy Temple and worship the Lord, do not consider their visits complete without the visit to the shrine of the supreme Mother Attukalamma. Vishnumaya took the incarnation of Bhagavathy to annihilate the evil and protect the good in the world in the present Era namely Kaliyuga.

The Pongala Mahotsavam is the most important festival of Attukal Bhagavathy Temple. The offering of Pongala is a special temple practice prevalent in the southern part of Kerala and some parts of Tamilnadu. It is a ten-day programme commencing on the Karthika star of the Malayalam month of Makaram-Kumbham (February-March) and closing with the sacrificial offering known as Kuruthitharpanam at night. On the ninth day of the festival the world famous Attukal Pongala Mahotsavam takes place. The entire area of about 5 kilometre radius around temple with premises of houses of people of all caste, creed and religion, open fields, roads, commercial institutions, premises of Government offices etc. emerges as a consecrated ground for observing Pongala rituals for lakhs of women devotees assembling from different parts of Kerala and outside. The ceremony is exclusively confined to women folk and the enormous crowd, which gathers in Thiruvananthapuram on this auspicious day is reminiscent of the Kumbhamela Festival of North India.

Attukal Temple is located 209 kms from Kochi (Cochin)

Sri Padmanabhaswamy temple is a famous Hindu temple of Lord Vishnu, located inside the Fort in the city of Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India. The temple is one of the 108 divya desam,the holiest abodes of Lord Vishnu. The main deity, Padmanabhaswamy, is a form of Vishnu in Anananthasayanam posture (in eternal sleep of yognidra).This is an ancient temple and the city of Thiruvananthapuram derives its name from the name of the presiding deity enshrined in the temple.

Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple is located 229 kms from Kochi (Cochin)

Thrikkakkara temple, one of the oldest temples in Kerala and celebrated in the writings of ancient travellers and Tamil Sangam literature is the centre stage of legends surrounding Onam. More than 13 centuries old, it is the only temple in the country dedicated to Vamana, the fifth incarnation of Vishnu who sent Mahabali to Pathala.

History and myth lay inseparably intertwined at the Thrikkakkara Temple which has about 18 important stone inscriptions dating back to 10-13 A.D. The inscriptions which were published in the Travancore Archeological Series in 1916 by Mr. T.A. Gopinatha Rao (1916) and Mr. K.V. Subramania Iyer (1923) are in 'Vattezhuthu,' the prototype of Malayalam

Considered one of 13 'divyadesams' of Malanadu, Thrikkakkara or Thirukalkarai, as it was known in the days of the Kulasekharas, was the capital of Kalkarainadu, a fiefdom under the Kulasekharas, it is believed. But there is no documentary evidence to prove it. Nammalvar, Vaishnava saint and the author of 'Thiruvaimizhi,' who lived around 9th Century, had sung praises of the temple and the beautiful countrysides surrounding it. It was a important pilgrimage centre for the Sri Vaishnavas, who were slowly gaining ground over Buddhists and Jains. The temple also finds mention in Sukasandesam, an ancient literary work in Malayalam


Thrikkakaray Temple is located 15 kms from Kochi (Cochin)

Kalady-the very name is synonymous with that of Adi Sankaracharya, the founder of the Advaita philosophy who was born here in the 8th century AD. Kalady, otherwise a sleepy little village, is visited by thousands of pilgrims today who wish to have a glimpse of the sacred spot where the Acharya is reputed to have been born. The name ‘Kalady’ has a story behind its origin. Once young Sankara’s widowed mother fainted while on her way to the river Poorna. Sankara prayed fervently to Lord Krishna who answered him saying that the river would originate from the point where Sankara’s feet (Kaladi) stood. Even today, it can be seen that the river Poorna takes an unusual turn towards the Sringeri Mutt.

Kalady Temple is located 51 kms from Kochi (Cochin)

The Bhagawati temple at Kodungallur is of great renown throughout the state of Kerala. Kodungallur situated on the west coast, was once a great port of the Chera rulers of Tamilnadu, It was known by the Greek as the musris. Tiruvanchikkulam, now a suburb of Kodungallur was a center of great historic significance during the chera period. Cheran Senguttuvan is said to have built the temple to Kannagi - a manifestation of Kaali or Kotravai or Durga, here (Silappadikaaram)

It is believed to have been a Shiva temple originally, as worship is offered first to Shiva before being offered to Bhagawati, and there is a mandapam in front of the shiva shrine, and there is none infront of Bhagawatis. The image of Bhagawati is believed to have been carved out of a jack fruit three. The face of the image is covered with a mask, and the image is decorated with several pieces of jewellary. created Bhramani, Vaishnavi, Maheswari, Kaumari, Varahi and Indrani from Bhrama, vishnu, Mahadeva, Kumara, Yama and Indra, and they were defeated by Daaruka, however Shiva created Kaali and she killed Daaruka.The image of Kali faces east. This image is believed to be a personification of Kali, who had killed the demon Daaruka. Daaruka is said to have worshipped Bhrama, and harassed the devas. The goddesses

The Bharani festival at the Kodungallur Bhagawati temple is one of the grandest in Kerala. It is a month of festivities from the Bharani asterism in the month of Aquarius to 7 days after the Bharani asterism in the month of Pisces. Traditionally the temple (especially during the Bharani festival) has been associated with a lot of animal sacrifices. These customs have been done away within the 20th century. The blood of the sacrificed used to be spilled over two stones in the prakaram, and as mentioned above, this practice is now stopped.

Kodungallur Bhagawati Temple is located 32 kms from Kochi (Cochin)

Thriprayar Temple, located south of Thrissur is one of the important temples dedicated to Lord Rama.The exquisite wood carvings, sculptures and Mural Paintings are an interesting sight. During the Onam festival in the months of August / September, there is a snake boat race.

he Triprayar temple was originally under the domain of the Zamorin rulers of Kerala. It later came under the posession of the Dutch, the Mysore sultans and the rulers of Cochin The namaskara mandapam which faces the circular sanctum (srikovil) has 24 panels of wood carvings and several ancient murals. The circular sanctum has several sculptural representations of scenes from the Ramayana.The Ekadashi festival in the month November - December is also a festive occasion, along the lines of the Guruvayur temple. The day preceding Ekadashi witnesses a procession of Saasta, while the Ekadasi festival is marked by a procession of Rama flanked by 21 elephants and royal paraphernalia. Every day of seven days the procession starts from Triprayar for a certain place where the arattu (bathing ceremony) is hold, giving- opportunity to thousands outside Triprayar to offer Worship to the deity

Thriprayar Temple is located 52 kms from Kochi (Cochin)

Guruvayoor Temple of Thrissur is a very important and famous pilgrimage. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, who is worshipped as Lord Krishna, an avatar of Lord Vishnu. The town where this temple is located is known by the name of Thrissur Guruvayoor. The temple of Guruvayur in Trichur, Kerala is worth a visit and just a mere sight of the Lord's idol in its grandeur is enough to make you feel pure and blessed. The temple follows a strict decorum and only Hindus are allowed inside. The temple is said to have been built by Guru (preceptor of Gods) and Vayu (God of winds). The idol is built out of a rare stone called Patala Anjana.

Guruvayoor Temple is located 43 kms from Kochi (Cochin)

In a land crowded with several better-than-the-last temples, The Vadakkumnathan temple stands out as one of the oldest temples in the state of Kerala. A classical example of the Kerala style of architecture, the Vadakkumnathan Temple contains many decorative murals and pieces of art.


Perched on a beautiful hillock at the center of Thrissur, overlooking the town, the vast ground around the temple is called Tekkinkadu or Forest of Teak Wood. The massive stone wall enclosing an area of nearly 9 acres forms a strong fortification around the temple. The four lofty gopuras around the main shrine indicate the four cardinal directions-North, South, East and West. A complex having three principal shrines dedicated to Shiva or Vadakkumnathan, Sankaranarayana and Rama are in the center of this enclosure.The most striking feature of the temple is the Kuttambalam, which is the theatre hall for staging kuttu, an ancient dramatic form of art famous in Kerala.

Vadakkunnathan Temple is located 63 kms from Kochi (Cochin)

The Lord Ayyappa temple at Sabarimala, 80 kms. from the Pathanamthitta district head quarters, is a National Pilgrim Centre. This famous shrine of Lord Ayyappa is surrounded by hazardous hills like Karimala and Neelimala. Devotees visit Sabarimala after undergoing 41 days of ‘Vritha’ i.e., self-imposed devotional penance. They, with irumudikettu (bundle with offerings to Ayyappa) on their head, climb the mountain ranges and cross the forest bare footed repeatedly chanting ‘Saranam Ayyappa’ which means we seek refuge in Ayyappa. This is probably the only famous temple in Kerala, which does not restrict anybody from visiting it for not being a Hindu.The Lord Ayyappa temple at Sabarimala is located 209 kms from Kochi (Cochin)

Velankanni can be traced to the mid-16th century and is attributed to three miracles: the apparition of Mary and the Christ Child to a slumbering shepherd boy, the curing of a lame buttermilk vendor, and the rescue of Portuguese sailors from a violent sea storm
Although all three apparitions resulted in the erection of a shrine to our Lady, it was the promise of the Portuguese sailors that caused a permanent edifice to be built at Velankanni. The chapel was dedicated on the feast of the Nativity of Mary (8 September), the day of their safe landing. More than 500 years later, the nine-day festival and celebration is still observed and draws nearly 2 million pilgrims each year. The Shrine of Our Lady of Velankanni, also known as the "Lourdes of the East",[2] is one of the most frequented religious sites in India. Velankanni church (Our Lady of Good Health) was built in the late 16th century CE with modifications by Portuguese and further expansions later on due to influx of pilgrimages

The Gothic style of architecture is a unique feature of the church. The church itself is an imposing building with inspiring architecture. While the buildings have been painted white, roof of the church is made by the tiles with striking red in contrast to the colour of the walls. The environment around the shrine is spic and span radiating rays of hope and pietyAs a token of gratitude to Mother Mary, Portuguese sailors who escaped from a severe cyclone, built the chapel 24 feet to 12 feet with a dome overhead. In their possible subsequent visits, perhaps they brought porcelain plates, which could be seen even now illustrating bible scenes and other cultural arts of the time, to beautify the Church they had built earlier. The main statue that they had brought to the altar of the Shrine was Our Lady holding the Baby Jesus, standing majestically on the globe!!!

Velankanni is located 340 kms from Kochi (Cochin)

India's first Masjid is believed to be built in 628 AD at the behest of legendary ruler Cheraman Perumal, who died in Arabia after embracing Islam.Legend has it that before he died, Cheraman Perumal sent an emissary to Kodungalloor to seek the help of his descendant there to propagate Islam along the Kerala coast.The original Hindu architectural scheme of the mosque has been retained intact to a great extent, though essential additions have been made over the yearsMore important is the fact that this is the world’s second oldest Juma mosque, where the Juma (Friday) prayers have been held for the last 1375 years, since the days of Prophet Mohammed (570-634 A.D.). The first Juma mosque in the world is the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah, which is also his memorial tomb

Kodungaloor was the capital of the kings of Kerala, and in 622-628 A.D. (Hijra 1 to 7) the ruler was a great savant, by name Cheraman Perumal Bhaskara Ravi Varma. In those days, the seniormost of the rulers of Kerala was called as Cheraman Perumal......!!!!! :)


എല്ലാ യാത്രകളും പുതിയ  കലത്തിലെ പുതിയ  വൈവിധ്യങ്ങള്‍ തേടിയുള്ളതാണ് ..!!!!

Ayurveda In My Kerala

Ayurveda stresses on the prevention of ailments in addition to curing them. Ayurveda was evolved in India around 600 BC and this is a complete natural healing system that depends on the diagnosis of the person's body humours to achieve the right balance and thus regain immunity and good health. Ayurveda is a perfect ancient science of life.

Making it the natural way to perfect health and harmony of life. Kerela's natural abundance with its equable climate is best suited for Ayurveda's curative ad restorative programmes. Kerala is the only place on earth where it is practiced with absolute authenticity and dedication. The word AYUR literally means ' life ' and VEDA means ' the science of knowledge '. Ayurveda briefly explains the knowledge of the do's and don'ts one has to follow, which flavors the well being of each individual to lead a healthy, happy, comfortable and advantageous life both physically, mentally and socially!!!!

Kerela's natural abundance with its equable climate is best suited for Ayurveda's curative ad restorative programmes. Kerala is the only place on earth where it is practiced with absolute authenticity and dedication ....!!!!! :)


Rejuvenation Therapy ( Rasayana Chikilsa )

Duration: 1hour 30 minutes a day for 7 or 14 days
This is complete rejuvenation therapy comprising of synchronized special massage. Herbal steam bath, Njavarakizhi etc. This carefully planned health program is directed towards improving vigor and vitality. It will also go a long way to tone up the skin and improve complexion. That is, it is a return to the eternal youth

Body Immunization / Longevity Treatment ( Kayakalpa Chikilsa )

Duration: 1 ½ hour a day for 7 or 14 days
This is a complete immunization therapy comprising of the relevant rejuvenation therapy and panchakarma therapy, which changes person to person. The Ayurveda doctor in the centre will suggest the suitable program. This carefully planned health program is directed towards strengthening the immunize system in order to achieve ideal health and prevent seasonal diseases

Body Seudation
Duration: 1 hour a day for 7 days
This package comprises synchronized massage and Herbal steam bath. This is meant for improving physical consistency, better eye sight, inducing sound sleep, reduces high blood pressure, elimination of impurities in the system. It improves the complexion and texture of the skin and provides shinning and softness to the skin

Body Slimming

Duration: 1 hour a day for 7 days
This package is deep dry massage using herbal powders. This reduces obesity, imparts mobility to joints, strengthens muscles and refreshes the bod

Panchakarma



Duration: 2 hours a day for 7 or 14 days
The package contains the famous panchakarma (5 therapies) and some of the sub therapies. We call it the completeness as it is a total and integrated health pack meant for both the healthy and sick. This is indicated in diseases like paralysis, arthritis, rheumatism, skin diseases and mental disorders the five fold purification therapy (Panchakarma) is employed. This includes medicated oil enema (Snehavasti) decoction enema (Kashayavasti), purgation with medicines (Virechana), induced vomiting with medicines (Vamana) and nasal medication (Nasya). Panchakarma is a prerequisite of Rasayana therapy (formal rejuvenation therapy) and also is useful is cases of subfertility and impotence



1 . Vamana :- This is induced vomiting and is done by giving emetic drugs orally along with a large quantity of liquids. The subject is allowed to vomit all contents of stomach. Indicated for bronchial asthma, cough, psoriasis, epilepsy, anaemia, insanity etc.

2 . Virechana (Purgation) :- It is done by oral administration of purgative drugs. Indicated for skin diseases, urinary disorders, fistula in ano, flatulence, anaemia, stomatitis, insanity, arthritis etc.

3 . Snehavasthi (Oil enema) :- This is a special enema where the main ingredient is a medicated oil

4 . Kashays Vasthi (Special enema) :- It is a enema with medicated mixtures. Indicated in rheumatism, arthritis, low back pain, sciatica, fistula in ano, flatulence, pain in hip joints, hemiplegia etc.

5 . Nasya (Errhines) :- This is done by administering medicines generally medicated oil into the nostrils. Indicated in headache, bronchial asthma, neuralgia, ear ache, sinusitis, facial paralysis etc.....!!!!!! :}

എല്ലാ യാത്രകളും പുതിയ  കലത്തിലെ പുതിയ  വൈവിധ്യങ്ങള്‍ തേടിയുള്ളതാണ് ..!!!!

Hill Stations In My Kerala

Kerela has a long chain of lush, mid-clad hill stations that are home to exotic wildlife. All the hill resorts in Kerela offer the most enchanting experience of nature in all its virgin beauty. The major Hill stations in Kerala are Munnar, Ponmudi, Peerumade, Neliyampathy, Peruvannamuzhi, Tusharagiri, Wayanad, Ezhimala, Ranipuram, Devikulam, Wagamon etc....!!! 

Munnar

Munnar is situated at the confluence of three mountain streams - Mudrapuzha, Nasllathanni and Kundala. 1600 m above sea level, this hill station was the summer resort of the British Government in South India.

Sprawling tea plantations, picture-book towns, winding lanes and holiday facilities make this a popular hill station. Among the exotic flora found in the forests and grasslands here is the Neelakurinji. This flower which bathes the hills in blue once every twelve years, will bloom next in 2006 AD. Munnar also has the highest peak in South India, Anamudi, which towers over 2695 m Anamudi is an ideal spot for treakking. Tea factory visits: Permission to visit any of the 26 factories of Tata Tea Ltd. Can be had from the Regional Office at Munnar....!! <3

Idukki

Idukki literally means a narrow gorge. It is a small hill town surrounded by a spread of beautiful, wooden valleys and meandering streams. Idukki is 121 km. away from Kottayam, along the way to Munnar.A landlocked district, Idukki is one of the most nature rich areas of Kerala. The high range and wooded valleys are girded by three main rivers - Periyar, Thalayar and Thodupuzhayar - and their tributaries.

The river Pamba also has its origin here. As a tourist destination, Idukki offers diverse attractions like wildlife sanctuaries, hill stations, spice plantation tours, mountain treks, elephant rides etc.

Idukki has a large population of tribals who have unique customs and beliefs and maintain an ethos which an ethos which is distinctly different from that of the mainstream culture.```!!

Wayanad 

The hills of Wayanad are blessed with luxuriant plantations of coffee, tea, cardamom, pepper and rubber. This north eastern tip of Kerala has the fast flowing rivers Panamaram, Mananthavady and Kabini giving the whole region a picture-postcard look...,,:))))

Nelliyampathy

Nelliyampathy is a range of hills cut off from one another by valleys of dense evergreen forests and orange plantations. The height of the hills range from 467 metres to the tallest peak Padagiri looming at 1572 metres. It is two and a half hours drive from Palghat. The journey is a sensation of its own with a dozen hairpin curves on the ghat road passing through the fascinating jungles of the Sahya Ranges. On the way is the Pothundi reservoir, an ideal stop over.!!! :)

Wagamon 

Surrounded by the greenery of tea gardens, beautiful meadows, valleys and dales lies Wagamon at an altitude of 1100 metres. This, trekker's paradise, is only 64 km. from Kottayam. Thangal para, Indo-Swiss project and Kurisumala Ashram are other attractions...!! :)

Lakkadi

Lakkadi, one of the highest locations in Wayanad, with picturesque hills, streams and luxuriant vegetation, registers the second highest degree of rainfall in the world. It is surrounded by meadows and hills on all sides. The natural fresh water lake, Pookode Lake, is only 3 km. from here. Mattupetty

Thirteen km. away from Munnar lies Mattupetty, at an altitude of 1700 m. above the sea level. The Indo-Swiss Dairy Project with the green meadows and the exotic cattle and the rose garden also attracts tourists.!!!        

Devikulam 

With its irresistibly green slopes touching the sky at a thousand metres and the silent clusters of slender red and blue gum trees, Devikulam creates its own space in the tourist map of Kerala. It is 16 km. southwest of Munnar.Devikulam, meaning the lake of the goddess, has a lovely little lake hidden within the rolling hills. According to legend, Sita Devi, the holy consort of Lord Rama, came down to frolic in the lake and the place came to be known as the present name ever since.!!!!

Peerumade

On the way to Thekkady lies this small hill station at an altitute of 914 metres. Peerumade was one the summer palaces of Tranvancore Rajas. This fertile land is full of rubber, tea, coffee, pepper and cardamom plantation, interspersed with waterfalls and open grasslands.....!!!! ;)))

എല്ലാ യാത്രകളും പുതിയ  കലത്തിലെ പുതിയ  വൈവിധ്യങ്ങള്‍ തേടിയുള്ളതാണ് ..!!!!

Beaches In My Kerala

Kerala “Gods own Country” is known for its beautiful beaches and extensive backwaters, and is one of the major tourist attractions in India, both for Indians and foreigners. The famous and most alluring Kerala beaches areKovalam beach, Poovar Beach, Varkala Beach, Marari Beach, and Kappad Beach etc. Kerala has a 600 km long shoreline dotted with some of the finest, charming beaches of the world, coconut groves, natural harbors, lagoons and sheltered coves. All these are as peaceful as the rest of the land, washed by the pleasant tropical sun and as pristine as ever...!!! ;))) Kerala Beaches are : Alappuzha Beach : Alappuzha Beach is one of the most popular picnic spots in Alappuzh a. The pier, which extends into the sea here, is about 140 years old. Visit during sunset and you'll find the same sea quietly jostling against the pure white sands, its waters abundant with catch for the fisher folk. After meeting the roaring sea, you can enjoy a lifetime boat cruise on the emerald backwaters by a romantic night, the famous attractions of Alappuzha beach. The beach houses the famous, ancient pier that is about 140 years old and the age- old lighthouse that was built by Captain Hugh Crawford in 1862 lies almost in ruins. This lighthouse helped to increase the trade in the past by transporting commodities and people through boats. These historic remnants add a colonial air to the place that reminds us of its bygone days. !!!! ':) Kappad Beach: This is the historic beach located at a distance of 16 km from the Kozhikode town, the Kappad beach is wrapped in a sheet of history. Uncover it to know that this was the land where the famous Portuguese sailor, Vasco da Gama set his feet in the year 1498 along with 170 men. This marked the beginning of a new era and new relationship between the Indians and the Portuguese which lasted for 4 to 5 centuries later. On the rocks nearby is a temple believed to be 800 years old!!!! :) Kovalam beach:  This internationally renowned beach of Kerala comprises of three adjacent crescent shaped beaches. The southernmost, known as the Lighthouse beach, is the most popular. The amazing Arabian Sea, the golden glowing sands and the coconut canopies all come together as a package for the picture perfect holiday. The Beach is just 16kms. from Trivandrum. A sheltered natural bay with cool soothing palms and gentle waves. Where when you are tired of aquatics, swimming or sunbathing, you can explore the handicrafts, jewellery and cloth shops spread along the waterfront. Not to speak of the delightful sea-food fare including lobsters available at the beachside restaurants. The middle beach is called Hawah. Each morning this beach acts as a base for the local fisherman. The northern most beach, Samudra, is least affected of all by the changing times. It is dotted with few rudimentary wooden fishing vessels. Shanghumugham Beach: This beach of Kerala is a favorite haunt of sunset viewers. This Beach has an indoor recreation club, the Matsya Kanyaka ( a giangetic 35m long sculpture of mermaid), a restaurant shaped like a starfish and a traffic training park for children. A star-shaped restaurant is also seen here. The Thiruvananthapuram International Airport and a flying club are located near by. Fishing is an attractive scene in Shanghumugham Beach. Shanghumugham beach wears a festive look during the temple festivals. The beach is more crowded during the weekends and local holidays. Sunset at this beach is sight worth seeing. The Chacha Nehru Traffic Training Park here attracts children and helps them to learn the traffic rules. Poovar Beach : Poovar Beach in Kerala is one of the most picturesque Beaches in India. Poovar Beach is approximately a 45 minutes drive away from Kovalam. Beach of Poovar a beautiful location in Kerala. This stunning location has been successful in attracting many tourists over the years. This charming Kerala beach is considered as one of the leading tourists spots in Kerala. Poovar Beach is a place where life goes on as it did hundred years ago, nonchalant of the worldly transformations. Poovar is one among the natural wonders where the Lake, River, Sea and Beach meet the land. A rare find in Kerala, the southern state of India. Poovar is unspoilt and unexplored, enveloped by the most serene backwaters, and opening out to the sea and a dream golden sand beach. Marari Beach: Marari Beach is an endless vista of sand and surf, but it is more. An authentic experience of the world Kerala's traditional fishing villages, and a recreation of an ancient, harmonious way of life. Marari originates from “Mararikulam ", one of the local fishing villages. Here life still goes on much as it did a hundred years ago, with the men going out to sea each day to earn a living bringing in the daily catch. Marari offers endless miles of superb sand beaches. The tourists can experience the local charm and traditional Kerala Hospitality at its best. Cherai Beach: This Lovely Kerala Beach bordering Vypeen Island is ideal for swimming. Dolphins are occasionally spotted here. A typical Kerala Village nearby with paddy fields and coconut groves is an added attraction. The beach is just 23kms. from Cochin. 15 Kms long Cherai Beach is the best clean golden beach of Kerala and is rightly called “The Princess of the Queen of the Arabian sea". Dolphins are occasionally seen here. A typical kerala village with paddy fields and coconut groves nearby is an added attraction. The newly beautified 400 Meters of the main beach with the walkway adds to the charm and the High mask lamp makes the beach enjoyable even at night. Cherai is well known for the mouth lingering fresh sea food. Varkala Beach: Vakala Beach of Kerala is a seaside resort and spa, as well as an important Hindu centre of pilgrimage. High cliffs with rich mineral springs rise majestically from the coastline. The 2000 year old Sree Janardhana Swamy Temple and the Nature Care Centre are the two main attractions there. The sight of the sun melting into the sea would blossom your poetic sense. The mineral water gushing from the hill is believed to have medicinal properties. Nattika Beach: This lovely beach of Kerala is 24kms. from Thrisssur. Stroll the beach with fascinating fantasies, reminding you of nature, the surroundings are gifted with backwaters surrounded by palm grooves; relax in the beach huts or unwind in the hammocks. The picturesque beach at Nattika village in Thrissur district is an ideal place to spend leisure time. It remains virgin, as the place is not much explored by visitors. This wide and virgin Kerala beach is blessed with an endless stretch of golden sand and graciously swaying palm trees. This picturesque place is suited for beach holidays and package tours. Nattika beach is the place to experience the love of nature. The beach is clean and long. You can walk any long to left or right. Deep sea fishing is an optional attraction. Kozhikode Beach: This beach is favorite haunt of sunset viewers. Adding to its natural beauty is the old – world charm retained by the ancient lighthouse and the two crumbling piers each more than a hundred years old that run into the Sea. It was here at Kappad that Vasco Da Gama landed in his search for the spices of the Orient. Today the serene beaches, lush green countryside, historic sites, all combine to make this a popular tourist destination filled with a warm ambience. Its natural beauty and old world charm makes it a dreamy place to visit. The beach has an old lighthouse and two crumbling piers running into the sea, each more than a hundred years old. Children can be entertained at the Lions Park and the Marine Water Aquarium. One can drag from the beach the city of Calicut or Kozhikode awaits you with its unique culture and other treasures. Beypore Beach: The Beach is just 10kms. from the south of Kozhikode. The Beypore beach is located at the mouth of the River Chaliyar and gives you an opportunity to enjoy dreamlike vistas. One of the prominent ports and fishing harbours of ancient Kerala was an important trade and maritime centre. Ancient Beypore was much sought after by merchants from Western Asia, for its ship building industry. Here, the time stands still as the specialist craftsmen design and shape "Uru" (the traditional Arabian trading vessel). The Beypore Beach has a bridge built nearly 2 kms into the sea. It is actually made up of huge stones piled together for nearly 2 kms making a pathway into the Arabian Sea. Gaze in wonderment at the serene water world, listen to the natural music of the sea waves and feel the quiet and calm of this lovely tour destination in Kerala, South India. Payyambalam Beach: Payyambalam beach of Kannur is a vast stretch of golden sands dotted with coconut trees. The adjacent Baby Beach through the Burnassery Cantonment is delightfully quiet. The beautiful Beach is just 2kms. from Kannur. This secluded beach is an ideal getaway for you if you want to spend a relaxed and laidback evening amidst calm surroundings. Take a Tour to Payyambalam Beach and experience the beautiful Arabian Sea from the sandy shores of the Payyambalam Beach. The well laid out garden and the massive landscaped sculpture of mother & child erected by noted sculptor Kanayi Kunhiraman makes it extremely captivating. The beautifully landscaped garden next to the beach is also a major crowd puller. It is a popular hang out among young and old alike. This beach is an alluring place where many popular Indian movies have been picturised. It is definitely worth the visit if you go to Kannur. Kizhunna Beach: This beach is just 11kms. from Kannur . The beautiful stretch of sand is one of the most secluded beaches in Kerala. Kizhunna Ezhara Beach is palm-fringed stretch of sand where in seclusion you will find peace and retreat from daily drudgeries. The surrounding coconut groves strewn all along the beach promises a relaxed stay. In the evening the quiet atmosphere of the place is enlivened by Kathakali performances. Kizhunna Beach is an alluring place where life goes on as it did hundred years ago, unperturbed by the worldly commotion. This beach has a beautiful location where people come for picnic or visit the place as a favorite weekend Getaway where you can bath in the cascading waves and get the pleasure of being pampered by nature. The Beach is ideal location for relaxation and rejuvenating your spirits, as you will have plenty of peace and solitude for yourself in this place. Aqua-Tourism is one of the most significant characteristic of Kerala and Kizhunna Ezhara Beach is a distinctive spot to substantiate on this pivotal feature. Meen Kunnu Beach: This beach is an uncrowded beach and a tourists' paradise. It is with golden sand and surf and attractive one. It is 12 km from Kannur. The beach is a tourist paradise with golden sand & surf. The beach is 12kms. from Kannur. The name of the beach is derived from the Malyalam Language where Meen means fish and Kunnu means hill. This beach attracts a lot of tourists with its beauty. Meen Kunnu beach is an expansion of Payyambalam Beach which is located two kilometers from the new rewritten of Kannur. Bekal Fort Beach: The beach is just 1kms away from Bekal Fort in Kasargod. The sobriquet name of the beach is Pallikere Beach this scenic seaside offers a spectacular view of the historic fort and has ample facilities fro recreation & relaxation. Beautification of the beach includes installation of two sculptures of Theyyam created using laterite at the beach and a shed with walls adorning murals created by artisans from Nilambur. Apart from these a rock garden at the parking area has been developed where laterite boulders of various size has been utilized. Under the social forestry scheme planting trees has been done in the beach area. The imposing circular fort at Bekal is one of the largest and best preserved forts in Kerala. The beautiful expanse of the shallow beach is near the Bekal Fort Beach. The beach has been illuminated during the evening hours so that tourists can more spend time at the beach even after the sun set. Multi shed and Eru madam would provide the tourist enough facility to take rest and enjoy the sea breeze. By using locally available materials seating arrangements has been provided for the tourists at the beach. A park has been developed here for children below 14 years. Kappil Beach: Kappil Beach stretches along for more than 25 acres of land. The beach is just 2kms. from Bekal fort , a winding lane meanders through Palm – fringed landscape to this totally unpolluted Secluded beach. The Kodi Cliff close by offers a panoramic view of the Arabian Sea. 2km. away from the Pallikunnam Temple. For those who prefer Thoreau to Harold Robbins, the secluded and relatively unexplored Kappil Beach should prove idyllic. This sun-drenched beach is a perfect getaway after a hectic tour of the nearby Bekal Fort which is 6kms away. Besides the natural beauty of the beach, adventure-loving souls can even ascend the nearby Kodi cliff to get a panoramic view of the Arabian Sea. Kappil Beach of Kerala is a beautiful place where life goes on as it did hundreds of years ago, unperturbed by the worldly din. Kappil Beach is a lovely place where people come for picnics or visit the place as a favorite weekend Getaway where you can bath in the cascading waves and get the pleasure of solitary saunters along the beach. Kappil Beach is an ideal location for relaxing and rejuvenating your spirits, as you will have plenty of peace and solitude for yourself in this place. Payyoli Beach: The shallow water of this beautiful Kerala beach is ideal for swimming. During November – December hordes of the endangered Olive Ridley turtle come to lay eggs. Payyoli is one of the most outstanding tourism spot which has a good crowd of visitors. Payyoli is well-renowned for its famous Payyoli Beach, which is merely 45 kilometers away from Kadavu and 14 kilometer all the way through the Sea. Payyoli Beach of Kerala will never fail to visit the Trikkottur Perumalpuram Temple in Kozhikode District. Ardent followers of lord Shiva will never fail to visit the temple during their visit. This Kerala Beach offers a golden stretch of sand and queued up swaying coconut palm trees which enliven it further. A quiet and well groomed place for swimming, this remote village is creditable for its serenity and down to earth qualities. During the months of November and December, Olive Ridley turtles, an endangered species come on shore to lay eggs.!! :) Vizhinjam Beach: This Kerala beach is lying just 15 kms from Trivandrum; this is a historic spot, which was left unnoticed for a long time. The capital of Ay-Vel kings of the 8th - 9th century, the only thing that has withstood time is a rock temple, assigned to the period of the Cheras because of a strong influence to die Pallava Pandya architecture. The rock temple is just a little off the main junction, and is a protected monument under the Archeological Survey of India. Vizhinjam Beach of Kerala was once a commercial centre for the Europeans, Portuguese and Dutch who had trade ties with the local kings. The attractions at Vizhinjam are the ruins of rock-cut temples. The beach offers everything that is associated with seaside destinations of Kerala. There are fishing boats jostling for space, fishermen repairing their fishing nets and women haggling over the price of the day's catch. All around is the sound of the waves crashing on the rocks. It is a pleasant sight to see fishermen pushing their boats into the sea at dusk. !!! TRAVEL TIPS FOR KERALA BEACHES Ø Putting on hat is an intelligent step as that will cover up whole of head region of the body. Ø Sunglasses of dark shades prevent eyes from sun rays. Also, sunglasses must have glasses composed of material that do not affect the eyes. Ø Do not expose whole body to the sun and sands. It is recommended that one should put on and cover up upper region of the body as well. Also, knickers and lowers are useful in the beaches. Ø Slippers or shoes are also required for the beaches. LOTION AND OTHER GELS - Sun lotions or gels safeguard the body parts and coat the epidermis. However; one must be selective for the kind of gels and lotions used. Lip guard and other gels prevent skin from tanning and drying up of the skin. OTHER PREVENTIVE MEASURES - Especially kids and old age people must be very cautious as they are overt to the beach hazards. One should be always prepared for any kinds of injuries like bruises and even sand getting into the eyes. Also, one must avoid going to the beaches when sun rays are direct and winds are blowing at high speed....!!!!!!!!!! :))))) എല്ലാ യാത്രകളും പുതിയ  കലത്തിലെ പുതിയ  വൈവിധ്യങ്ങള്‍ തേടിയുള്ളതാണ് ..!!!!

Backwaters Heaven On In My Kerala Earth

Kerala is gifted with lovely beaches, hill stations,

stunning backwaters, mind blowing greenery, wildlife,                          

bird sanctuaries and rich culture. Kerala Backwaters are the
                                                                                                                   
most popular tourist attraction in India. From elephants to

colourful butterflies, Kerala is overflowing with the wonders of nature.                      

Some of the scenic Kerala backwater destinations that you can

see on Kerala tours with Kerala Backwater are:

Cochin: This historic port city called "the Queen of the Arabian

Sea," is known for its natural harbor.!!!!!! :))))

Alappuzha: This Kerala Backwater destination is also known as the

"Venice of the East," because of its surrounding waterways and canals.

Kasargod: Kasargod a town in North Kerala is known for the Valiyaparamba

stretch of backwaters, an incredibly beautiful and green corridor along

the coast of Kerala.!!! ;0)

Kollam: Situated just over 70 Km from the capital of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram,

Kollam is an ancient seaport on the banks of the Ashtamudi Lake. The cruise from

Kollam to Alappuzha, which lasts eight hours, is a magical ride along the scenic

backwaters of Kerala.

Kottayam: Kottayam in Kerala is known for its fascinating backwaters on the

seacoast and beautiful hills further inland. 

Kozhikode: Kozhikode in North Kerala, is an important port, previously known as Calicut.

Calico - a variety of checked cotton cloth derives its name from Calicut.

Kumarakom: Situated in the beautiful Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom is a paradise on Earth.

The bird sanctuary, the scenic beauty and the tourist resorts along the backwaters

make Kumarakom one of the most sought after Kerala Backwater destinations.!!!!! ;))))


എല്ലാ യാത്രകളും പുതിയ  കലത്തിലെ പുതിയ  വൈവിധ്യങ്ങള്‍ തേടിയുള്ളതാണ് ..!!!!