Location: Idukki District is located around the south eastern part of Kerela. It shares boundary with Ernakulam and Kottayam district in the east, Thrissur district and Coimbatore district of Tamil Nadu in the north, Pathanamthitta district in the south and Theni, Dindigul and Coimbatore district of Tamil Nadu in the east.

District Headquarter: Painavu

Distance: 132 km from Cochin, 238 km from Kollam, 43 km from Munnar, 240 km from Palakkad, 293 km from Thiruvananthapuram, 205 km from Madurai, 570 km from Chennai, 547 km from Bangalore, 275 km from Mysore, 408 km from Mangalore.

Journey time: Around 9 hrs by road from Bangalore

How to reach there: By train, KSRTC, KSTC, private bus or hired vehicle. Also, one can fly to the nearest airport Nedumbasseri (160 km) or Madurai (204 km). The nearest rail station is Theni (60 km) in Tamil Nadu.

Route: Bangalore -Hosur – Krishnagiri – Dharmapuri – Salem – Thiruppur – Coimbatore – Palakkad – Mannuthy – Chalakkudy – Angamaly – Muvattupuzha – Thodupuzha – Idukki

Where to stay:

Budget:

1. Chandana Annexe
Marayoor P.O, Idukki
Kerala – 685620

2. Chandana Residency
Udumalpet Road, Marayoor P.O
Kerala – 685620

3. Edassery Resorts
Kumily Road, Kattappana
Idukki, Kerala – 685501

4. Madeira Residency
Kattappana, Idukki

5. Green View Home Stay
Thekkady Bypass Road
Hotel Ambadi Junction
Thekkady P.O, Kumliy, Idukki Dist.
Kerala – 685536

Average:

1. Summer Sand Hill Resort & Ayurvedic Centre
Kolahalamedu P.O, Vagamon, Idukki
Kerala – 685501

2. Ananya Hill Resort
Vagamon, Idukki
Kerala – 685531

3. Pepper County
Amaravathy (Ottakathalamedu)
P.O Kumily,Idukki, Kerala

Where to eat: Rapsy Restaurant, Hotel Saravan Bhavan (veg), Guru’s (south Indian), Royal Retreat.

Language spoken: Mainly Malayalam and English. Many people know Tamil and Hindi to an extent.

Recorded history of Idukki started with the Chera kingdom. It was under different rulers like Vembolinad kings, Poonjar Raja. Tea plantation etc started in the late 19th century with the British planters. Idukki is a hill district and has various kind of plantations. The altitude of the hills various from 2500 ft to 6000 ft. It is also a popular tourist destination with beautiful places like Munnar, Thekkady etc. Idukki district was formed on 26 January 1972.

What to See:

Destinations in Idukki can be seen from four destinations. So I will group them under four places as follows:

1. Munnar: Munnar is a beautiful hill station situated around 1600 meters above sea level. The forests here are famous for the Neelkunji flower which once in every 12 years. Now lets check the places we can see in Munnar:

Devikulam: Located around 7 km from Munnar town Devikulam is a nice picnic spot near Sita Devi Lake. The beautiful scenery along with pure water makes a treat here.

Pothamadu: At Pothaamedu you can see plantation of tea, coffee and beautiful hill side. It is located 6 km from Munnar town.

Pallivasal: Pallivasal located around 8 km from Munnar is the site of first hydro electric project in Kerela. At Chithirapuram (10 km from Munnar), you can see old cottages and bungalows.

Attukal: View point for beautiful waterfalls and scenery, located around 9 km from Munnar.

Nyayamakad: Located around 10 km from Munnar at Nyayamakad you can see a beautiful waterfalls descending from 1600 meters.

Mattupetty: Here visit the Indo Swiss Livestock dairy farm.

Time: 0900-1100 hrs and 1400-1530 hrs.
Entry fee: Rs 5
Ph :0486-530389

Do go for Mattupetty lake and dam. Boating facility is available. It is around 13 km from Munnar.

Nearby around 20 km from Munnar is the Kundala tea plantations and Kundala lake. Also, you can watch Aruvikkad waterfalls located nearby.

Eravikulam National Park: Located around 15 km from Munnar this 97 square kilometer national park houses the Nilgiri Tahr. You can also see Nilgiri Tahr at Rajamala .

Chinnar Wild Life Sanctuary: It is located around 60 km from Munnar on the Tamil Nadu border boast a variety of wildlife.

You may visit some other places like Power House waterfalls on the way to Thekkady, Echo point around 15 km from Munnar, Anayirankal Dam around 22 km from Munnar, Top station 32 km from Munnar, Cheeyappara water falls and Lock Heart Gap around 13 km from Munnar.

2. Thekkady:

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: Periyar is one of the best forest reserves in India which boasts of various flora and fauna. The sanctuary was formed in 1978 and extends over 777 square km. The Mullaperiyar Dam and water reservoir is also a treat to watch.

Time: 6 am – 6 pm

Kumily: It is mainly associated with plantation and a trade center of spice. It is located around 4 km from Thekkady. Around 5 km from here, you can visit the beautiful picnic spot of Pandikuzhi. One can also do trekking here.

Mangala Devi Temple: The ancient temple of Mangala Devi is located around 15 km from Thekkedy on top of a hill inside dense forest. Public darshan is allowed on only one particular day in a year. To visit here one need to take permission from Wildlife Wadren, Thekkady (Ph.0486-322027).

Vandanmedu: Located around 25 km from Kumily, Vandanmedu has the largest auction center for candamom. One can also visit candamom plantations here.

You can also visit the hill towns of Pullumedu, Ramakalmedu, Murikkady, Chellarkovil and Vandiperiyar for beautiful scenery of hills, lush green forest and plantations.

3. Peermede: peermede is basically a plantation area of tea, coffee etc. It was also the summer retreat of the then local kings.

Grampi: Located around 5 km from Peermede Grampi overs excellent view.

Pattumala: Pattumala is typically popular for tea plantations. There a church called Velankanni church made entirely of granite stones. It is located around 17 km from Peermede, 28 km from Thekkady.

Vagamon: A beautiful holiday escape located around 25 km from Peermede offers green forest, pure oxygen and much more for peace of mind.

Sahyadri Ayurvedic Centre: This ayurvedic center offers curative and rejuvenate treatment packages. It has a medicinal plant garden and drug museum. To visit the garden one can take permission from the Director, Peermede Development Society, Peermede, Idukki. Phone: 332097, 332247.

Ilaveezhapoonchira: A nice picnic spot with beautiful surrounding scenery located around 55 km from Kottayam, 20 km from Thodupuzha.

Tribal settlements in Peermede: You can visit the tribes of Oorali, Malappandaram and Malayarayan who lives in the hills of Peermede. The main tribal settlement here is at Plakkathadam

You can also visit some other places like Kuttikkanam, Thrissanku Hills,
Peeru Hills which offers beautiful scenery and view points.

4. Idukki

Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary: Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary located near Idukki dam extends over 77 square km. There are three dams namely – Cheruthoni, Idukki and Kulamanu which formed a 33 square km reservoir .

Idukki Arch Dam: Idukki Arch Dam is the first arch dam in Asia and the second one in the world.

Hill View Park: This enchanting park of 8 acres offers panoramic of the nearby Idukki dam and water bodies.

Thumpachi Calveri Samuchayam: A nice picnic spot located around 35 km from Thodupuzha. Good for sunset viewing.

Nadukani: It is a nice picnic spot.

Kalliyanathandu: View point along with Cheruthoni, Kalamavu.

Malankara Reservoir: Located around 6 km from Thodupuzha on the Thodupuzha-Moolamattom road is this artificial lake. One can go boating or do fishing there.

Thommankuthu: Beautiful 7 steps waterfalls located around 17 km from Thodupuzha.

Keezharkuthu: Here you can see another waterfalls called rainbow water falls located around 35 km from Thodupuzha.

Location: Ernakulam District is located in the south – west of Kerela. It shares boundary with Thrissur district in the north, Idukki district in the east, Kottayam and Alappuzha district in the south and Arabian sea and Alappuzha district in the west.

District Headquarter: Kochi or Cochin

Distance: Around 533 km from Bangalore, 1919 km from Bhubaneswar, 684 km from Chennai, 2360 from Kolkata, 2594 from Delhi, 3402 from Guwahati, 1095 from Hyderabad, 220 from Thiruvananthapuram.

Journey time: Around 8 – 9 hours from Bangalore and 10 – 11 hrs from Chennai.

How to reach there: By Train, bus and flight from various parts of India.

Route:

From Bangalore: Bangalore – Hosur – Krishnagiri – Dharmapuri – Salem – Coimbatore – Palghat – Trichur – Cochin

From Chennai: Chennai – Tindivanam – Salem – Coimbatore – Thrissur – Cochin

Where to stay:

Luxuary:

1. Hotel Arches
1/341, Rose Street, Next to St. Francis Church,
Fort Cochin, Kerala, India, Pin: 682001
Phone: 91 484 221 50 50
Fax: 91 484 221 57 04
Email: hotelarches@gmail.com
Website: http://www.hotelarches.com/

2. Trident
Bristow Road, Willingdon Island,
Cochin – 682 003
Ph: 91 484 308 1000
Fax: 91 484 308 1002
Website: http://www.tridenthotels.com/

3. Abad Atrium
M.G Road, Cochin-682 035
Ph: 91 484 23811221
Website: http://www.abadhotels.com/atrium/

4. You are looking for heritage stay or theme based stay try Koder House or Victory Dawn
Website: http://www.koderhouse.com/

Budget Hotels

1. Kimansion
Napiers Street,
Opp : St : Andrews Parish Hall
Fort Cochin – 682 001
Ph : 91- 0484 – 2216730
Fax : 91- 0484 – 2215757
Cell : 09847- 032117
Website: http://www.kimansion.com

2. Hotel Luciya
Near KSRTC Bus Stand,
Stadium Road, Cochin – 35
Ph: 91 484 – 2381177, 2382471, 3043179, 3043177
E-mail: lucialuci102@gmail.com
Website: http://www.hotelluciya.com

3. Hotel Cochin Tower
Lissie Junction, Kochi-682 018, Kerala
Website: http://www.hotelcochintower.com/

4. Hotel Saas Tower,
Cannon Shed Road,
Near Main Boat Jetty – 682011
Ph : +91 484 2365319, 2365322, 2368545, 4069999
Fax : +91 484 2367365
Email : saastower@yahoo.co.in
Website: http://www.saastower.com

5. Hotel Aiswarya
MG Road, Cochin-16
Ernakulam, Kerala – 682016
Ph: 0484 2364454
Website: www.aiswaryahotels.com‎

6. ATS Willingdon Hotel
Willingdon Island, Cochin – 682 029
Tel : +91 484 2667643, 2667282, 2669223
Email:mail@atshotelcochin.com
Website: http://www.atshotelcochin.com

Where to eat:

1. Hotel Thali
opposite Little Flower Church, near Kadavanthra

2. Bimbis Foodcourt
Jos Junction, MG Rd
Note: It is a good budget restaurant which offers north Indian, south Indian, continental and Chinese food.

3. Hotel Unnikrishnan
opposite Medical Trust Hospital, Pallimukku

4. Mughal Restaurant
South Railway Station Rd

5. Sree Krishna Cafe
Gujarathi St, Mattencherry.

6. Thai BBQ House
Kunnumpuram Road,
Njaliparambu Junction,
Fort Kochi

7. Khyber Pass
First floor,
Bimbis Restaurants,
Jos Junction, MG Rd

8. Royal Food Court
Near North Railway Station

Language spoken: Malayalam, Hindi, English

Ernakulam is one of the most flourishing district in Kerela. Its headquarter Cochin has been a major sea port and trade center from centuries. Gochin has cultural impressions from various traders from Arabian countries, Chinese, Dutch, Portuguese, British etc. On 01/04/1958 the district of Ernakulam was formed with Cochin (Kochi) as its district headquarters. The word Ernakulam was derived from a Tamil word Erayanarkulam which means abode of Lord Shiva. The Portuguese first established a base in Cochin followed by the Dutch and British. Since 1814 Cochin was part administered by British and the local Kochi Raja (king). In 1947 the parts of British Malabar region and Kingdom of Travancore were merged to form one Malayalam speaking state. In 1948 this merged entity joined the dominion of India.

What to See:

1. Bastion Bunglow: This bunglow built by the Dutch in 1667 was in Indo – European style. Located the end of Church street, Fort Kochi this a beautiful residential place built by the then Dutch traders.

2. Hill Palace Museum: Hill palace museum is located around 12 km from Ernakulam on Hill Palace road, Thripunithara. It is the largest archeological museum in Kerela. The royal family of Kochi kingdom used to stay here. There is also a deer park and a zoo.

Timings: 10 am – 12.30 pm and 2 pm -4.30 pm (Crown gallery closes at 4 pm)
Entry fees: Rs 20 for Indian and Rs 100 for foreigners

3. Chinese Fishing Nets: China has century old trading relation with the kingdom of Cochin. The Chinese fishing nets gifted by then emperor of China can be seen at Beach road near Fort Kochi beach.

4. Bhoothathankettu: Bhoothathankettu dam is located around 50 km from Cochin in the village of Pindimana. The dam is built on river Periyar. Local myth says that the dam was built by demons to submerge the nearby Trikkariyoor (Lord Shiva) temple. But they were not successful and here you can see many different shaped stones. Here river Periyar flows through a thin gorge. However, geologists attribute to huge floods in the past. Also, you can see Bhoothathankettu reservoir, Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary and Idamalayar reservoir (12 km from here).

5. Bolghatty Island: Bolgatty island is famous for Bolghatty Palace built by dutch traders in 1744. It was the residence of the then Dutch governors followed by British. After India’s independence the palace has been concerted into a heritage hotel run by KTDC.

Hotels:

1. http://www.bolgattyislandresortkochi.com/

2. http://www.bolgattypalacekochi.com/

Courtesy: Roshni

6. Chendamangalam: Chendamangalam town is located around 35 km from Cochin. This place is full of natural beauty with rivers, hills, green trees. The most important sightseeing here is the Paliam Palace. This place used to be the residence of Paliath Achans – prime minister of Kochi kings. You can also see some Jewish synagogue, church, mosque and the Hindu temple of Sri Venugopala Krishna Swami.

7. Cherai Beach: Cherai is very popular beach located on Vypin island around 25 km from Cochin. This 15 km beach is clean and not crowded. A perfect place for sun, sand and sea. You stay at some of the following hotels:

1. Cherai Beach Resort – http://www.cheraibeachresorts.com

2. Raja’s Residency

3. Brighton Beach House

4. Sea Line Beach Resort

5. Holiday Hotel

8. Dutch Palace: The Dutch palace is located in Mattancherry and is also know by Mattancherry Palace. This palace was built by the Portuguese and the gifted to the then Kochi king Veera Kerala Varma in 1555. Later the Dutch renovated this palace and it became popular by Dutch palace. The palace houses many works of Kochi kings and their artifacts.

9. Historical Museum: The Museum of Kerela history is located on national highway 47 near Edappally Toll Gate.
Website: http://artandkeralahistory.org/

10. Jewish Synagogue: The Paradesi Synagogue is located besides Mattancherry Palace. It was built in 1568 by the Cochin Jewish community. It has a beautiful design and architecture.

11. Kodanad: This place is popular for its natural beauty and a small elephant zoo – Elephant Kraal . It is located around 50 km from Cochin. It is the only elephant training center in kerela and you go for a elephant safari in Kodanad Park.

12. Marine Drive: Marine Drive in Cochin is a sea front walkway. Here no vehicles are allowed and this area is full of fast food restaurant, malls and shops. The beautiful promenade is a popular hangout place. Sunrise or sunset view is amazing from here.

13. Pallipuram Fort: Pallipuram fort was originally built by the Portuguese and then captured by the Dutch. Later, it came to the hand of Kochi kings. One can also visit the museum there.

14. Parikshit Thampuran Museum: It is also called Pareekshith Thampuran Durbar Hall Art Gallery. It houses the paintings from various era and various artifacts of Kochi kings. This place used to be the darbar hall or court room of the Kochi kings.

15. Willingdon Island: Willingdon island is the largest man island constructed during British time in Kochi. It was constructed with the sand which came out of dredging the sea to deepen the Kochi port. It was named after the then viceroy of India Long Willingdon. The southern Naval command of India Navy, Kochi port and many prominent building and hotels are located here.

16. Santa Cruz Bascillica:  Santa Cruz Bascillica is located near Saint Francis church. This is a Roman catholic church built in 1503 based on portuguese architecture. Located in fork Kochi area.

17.  St.Francis Church: Saint Francis church built in 16th century and built by Portuguese is the first European church in India. Explorer Vasco Da Gama was buried in this church. Located in fork Kochi area.

18. Thrikkakara Temple: In this temple lord Vishnu is prayed as Vamana avatar. It is an old temple built in around 10th century. It is located around 8 km from Cochin.

You also visit other temples like Thirumala Devaswom Temple at Mattencherry, Ernakulam Siva Temple, Chottanikara Devi Temple and Poornathresya Temple around 15 km from Cochin at Thripunithara, Gujarathi Mandir (Jain temple) at Gujarathi street, Mattencherry, Kalady around 45 km from Cochin which the birth place of Hindu preacher Adi Shankaracharya, Kallil Bhagavathy temple around 23 km from Kalady and Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha on MG road.

19. Indian Naval Maritime Museum: Indian Naval Maritime Museum in Cochin is built on the navy ship INS Dronacharya. It is located in Fort Kochi area.

20. Indo-Portuguese Museum: The museum located in fort Kochi area showcase the colonization of Kochi and the Portuguese affairs here.

21. Mastyafed Milky-way Aqua-Tourist Village: Mastyafed Milky-way Aqua-Tourist Village is located in Malipuram Village in Vypin island and located around 12 km from Cochin. It is run by Mastyafed – the Kerela government fishery department. One can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, boating etc. Entry fees is Rs 100 per person which includes breakfast and lunch.

Website: http://matsyafed.org/home.htm

22. Kumbalangi Integrated Tourism Village: Kumbalangi island is a water front village located around 15 km from Cochin. It is promoted as India’s first eco tourist village. One can experience here fishing, country side, mangrove forest etc. for more info visit – http://kumbalangy.com/

One can visit Kanjiramattam Mosque located 30 km from Cochin and Chembittapally Mosque in fort Kochi area. Also there many parks in Cochin and prominent among them is Subhash Park at Park avenue, Children’s Park, Indira Renewable Energy Park, Beach Children’s Park at Beach Rd, Managalavanam onTatapuram-Pachalam Road. You can also visit Poru around 14 km from Cochin to enjoy the serene beauty of the bank of river Periyar. If you are looking for wet day out visit Veegaland Amusement Park in Kakkanad.

Location: Palakkad district is located almost at the center of kerela. It shares boundary with Thrissur District on the south and west, Coimbatore district of Tamil Nadu in the east and Malappuram District on the north and west.

District Headquarter: Palakkad

Distance: Around 55km from Coimbatore, 160 km from Cochin, 383 km Thiruvananthapuram, 366 km from Bangalore, 350 km from Chennai, 247 km from Mysore, 306 km from Mangalore

Journey time: Around 9.5 hrs from Bangalore, 1 hr from Coimbatore

How to reach there: By flight to nearest airport to Coimbatore (55 km) or to Cochin (160 km), by train, by Kerela state bus, Karnataka state bus, private bus and private vehicle.

Route:

1. Bangalore to Palakkad: Bangalore – Hosur – Kathujuganapalli – Dharmapuri – Salem – Bhavani – Avanashi – Thirumalayampalayam – Palakkad

2. Chennai to Palakkad: Chennai – Krishnagiri – Dharmapuri – Toppur-Salem – Sankari – Bhavani – Perunthurai – Avinashi – Coimbatore bypass – Walayar – Kanjikode – Palakkad

Where to stay:

1. Hotel Fort palace
West Fort Road, Palakkad
Kerala, India. PIN – 678 001.
Ph: +91 491 2534621
Fax: +91 491 2534625
Email: fortpalacehotel@gmail.com
Website: http://www.fortpalace.com/

2. Sree Chakra International
Chandrannagar, Palakkad
Ph: 0491 – 2570901 /02/03

3. Hotel Indraprastha
English Church Road, Palakkad
Ph: 0491 – 2534641

4. Hotel Tripenta
Malampuzha, Palakkad
Ph: 0491 – 2815210 / 20

Where to eat:

1. Choice Restaurant
ITL HO Choice Family Restarant
11/385/(2) Robinson Road Palakkad
Palakkad 678001
Ph: 0491-2522786

2. Fortview Restaurant
Jamshi Plaza 18/5/2,
Near Fort Maidan Palakkad
Palakkad 678001
Ph: 0491-2504455

3. Sabla Restaurant
KTDC Beer Parlour Ktdc Ltd
Palakkad 678001
Ph: 0491-2567318

Language spoken: Malayalam is the main language spoken in Palakkad. However, Tamil is spoken in the border areas of Tamil Nadu and understood by large number of people. English is spoken and understood to an extent.

The history of Palakkad trace to the rule of Chera kings, followed by Zamorins, Hyder Ali, Tippu Sultan and finally in the hands of British in 1872. Palakkad was made a separate district of Kerela in 1956. Palakkad is known as the gateway to Kerela through the palakkad gap which is a huge gap of 32 kms in the Western Ghat hills.

What to See:

1. Palakkad Fort: Palakkad fort is also known as Tipu’s fort. it was built by father of Tipu Sultan, Hyder Ali in 1766. The fort went to the control of British after the fall of Tipu Sultan in 1799. The fort is now a tourist destination and also acts taluk office. The fort also houses a Hanuman temple.

2. Malampuzha Dam Garden: Malampuzha dam garden is located around 10 km from palakkad. Malampuzha dam is built on Bharatapuzha river. It is a popular picnic spot with nice gardens, boating facility at the reservoir.

3. Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary: Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary is located around 135 km from Palakkad and it forms a continues range with Indira Gandhi National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu on the other side of the state border. A wide variety of species are found here and trekking is allowed with prior permission.

4. Silent Valley National Park: Silent Valley National Park has been declared a biosphere reserve and is an ecologically sensitive area. It is a biologists and adventures dream come true with wide variety of tree and animals. The park is located around 80 km from Palakkad town.

pic: Navin singh

5. Nelliyampathi: Nelliyampathi is a small hill resort located around 80 km from Palakkad. It also know as Ooty of kerela.

6. Attappady: If you are interested in seeing the local tribes – Irulas and Mudugars, then you can visit Attappady.

7. Walayar Dam: Walayar dam is located at the border of Tamil Nadu and Kerela at a distance of 25 km from Palakkad. One can visit a deer park 3 km from Walayar.

8. Sholayar Forest: The highest hill of Palakkad – Sholayar hill is located here. This area also has tea and coffee plantations and one can also see Sholayar dam and Athirapally waterfalls.

Pic: Paul Chong

9. Dhoni: Located around 15 km from Palakkad, the trek to Dhoni hill is a good 3 hrs and here one can see a waterfalls in a forested area.

10. Jain Temple of Jainimedu: On the western end of Palakkad this temple is located. It is one of the rare places where influence of Jainism still prevails.

11. Fantasy Park: On your holidays you can have some fun with your family or friends at Fantasy park. It is a water amusement park, located in Malampuzha around 10 km from Palakkad town.

Timings: 10 am to 7 pm everyday
Fare: Rs 250 for adult and Rs 200 for Children (No description given till what age they consider children). They also have special rates for students, College groups and families.

Address:
Fantasy Park
Neo Tech Amusements & Resorts Pvt Ltd.
8/585,  Malampuzha,  Palakkad,  Kerala-678 651
Ph : 0491-2815122/23/24.
Tel/Fax : 0491-2815124
E-mail : info@fantasypark.in
Website: http://www.fantasypark.in/

Kerela has a well developed tourism sector and the state government is very much involved in that. Here I will share Kerela state tourism department contact information:

Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala
Park View, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India – 695 033
Ph: +91-471-2321132 Fax: +91-471-2322279
Tourist Information toll free No:1-800-425-4747
Tourist Alert Service No:9846300100
Email: info@keralatourism.org, deptour@keralatourism.org
Website: http://www.keralatourism.org/

For Kerela state government run hotels and tour packages contact:
Kerala Tourism Development Corporation Limited.
Mascot Square, Thiruvananthapuram – 695 033
Kerala.
Phone: +91-471-2316736, 2725213
Fax: +91-471-2721254
E-mail: centralreservations@ktdc.com
Website: http://www.ktdc.com/

For Kerela Tourism Information Offices in kerela and other parts of India, click here.

Location: Kozhikode district shares boundary with Kannur district in the north, Wayanad district in the east, Malappuram district in the sound and Arabian sea in the west.

District Headquarter: Kozhikode (Calicut)

Distance: Around 354 km from Bangalore, 1838 km from Kolkata, 135 km from Coimbatore, 733 km from Hyderabad, 529 from Chennai, 917 km from Mumbai, 1932 km from Delhi, 101 from ooty.

Journey time: 8 – 10 hrs by bus

How to reach there: By Bus, train or by plane from Karipur airport.

Route: Bangalore – Mandya – Srirangapatna bypass – Gundlupet – Bandipur – Gudalur – Devarshola – Nelliyalam – Pantheeramkavu – Calicut

Where to stay:

Luxuary:

1. Malabar Palace
Manuelsons Jn., G.H. Road, Kozhikode-673 001
Kerala, India.
Ph: 91-495-2721511 (6 lines)
91-495-2720212. Fax: 91-495-2721794.
E-mail:malabarpalacecalicut@gmail.com, mpalace@sancharnet.in
Website:www.malabarpalacecalicut.com

2. Hyson Heritage
P.B. No.114, Bank Road, Calicut -673001
Ph :0495 -2766423 , 2766726 .
Fax : 2766518
Email: hysonclt@satyam.net.in
Web : www.hysonheritage.com

3. Kadavu Resort
N.H.17 Calicut Bye Pass Road,
P.O. Feroke College,
Calicut – 673 632,
Kerala, India.
Tel: +91-483-2830570, 2830023, 2830027
Fax: +91-483-2830575
Email: info@kadavuresorts.com, sales@kadavuresorts.com
Website: www.kadavuresorts.com

4. The Gateway Hotel
P.T.Usha Road
Calicut – 673 002, Kerala, India
Tel: (91-495) 6613000
Fax: (91-495) 6613001
gateway.calicut@tajhotels.com
Website: http://www.thegatewayhotels.com/

Budget hotel:

1. Beach Hotel
Beach Road, Calicut
Pin – 673 032
Tel – 91 495 2762056
Kerala, India
E-mail : info@beachheritage.com
Website: http://www.beachheritage.com/

2. Asma Tower
Mavoor Road, Calicut.
Phone: +91-495-40-88-000
Fax : +91-495-40-88-088website: http://www.asmatower.com

3. East Avenue Suites
Nadakkavu, Wayanad Road, Calicut-673 006
Phone : 0495 2367173/174/175
Fax: 0495 2367153
Email: mail@eastavenuesuites.com
Website: http://www.hoteleastavenuesuites.com

4. Hotel Thushara International
Kodenchery, Kozhikkode- 673580
Kerala, South India
Phone: 91 495 2236909 , 91 495 2238267 , 91 495 2238689
Fax: 91 495 2238267
E-mail: thushara@thusharainternational.com, reserve_thushara_intl@yahoo.co.in
Website: http://www.thusharainternational.com

5. Sea Queen Hotel
Beach Road, Kozhikode,
Calicut-673001, Kerala, India.
Tel +91 495 2366604, 804, 904, 054
Email: mail@seaqueenhotel.com
Website: www.seaqueenhotel.com

Where to eat: Khyber, Malabar Mansion, Paramount Tower Hotel

Language spoken: Malayalam, Hindi and English

Kozhikode also know as calicut was prominent center of trade for spices since ancient times and was once the capital of the Zamorin kingdom. Calicut has been visited by various foreign travelers from countries like China, Middle east etc. In 1766 Hyder Ali of Mysore captured Calicut and most of northern Malabar coast. However, conflict of interest with the British who have established themselves in the then Madras presidency. In the third Anglo – Mysore war Calicut was ceded to the British. Kozhikode (Calicut) district was formed in 1st January, 1957.

What to See:

1. Mananchira Maidan (Square): Mananchira maidan is located besides Mananchira water tank at the center of Calicut. It has nice park with trees, artificial stream, musical fountain, open theatre etc. The periphery of the water tank is flanked by various important building like Zamorin’s palace, Town hall, C.S.I. Church, Basel Mission Complex etc.

2. Calicut Planetarium: The 250 seater planetarium is a great attraction for childrens and space buffs.

Address: Regional Science Centre & Planatarium, Near Jaffarkhan Colony, Calicut – 673006. Ph : 0495-2770571
Website: http://www.rscpcalicut.org/
Timmings: 10.30 am to 6 pm

3. Kadalundi: Kadalundi is famous for the recently declared bio reserve for birds and is a destination for migratory birds. Mangrove forest, Pulimoodu, lighthouse are some of the things you can go sightseeing. It is located around 25 km from Calicut.

Nearby you can visit the fishing harbour and port town of Bypore located at the mouth of Beypore River. It is located around 10 km from calicut.

Chaliyam near Bypore is a scenic place featuring an ancient Portuguese fort and Feroke bridge.

Also, in nearby Vallikkunnu you can visit Azhimugham where Kadalundi river joins Arabian sea and is popular for migratory birds. Another popular attraction is kadalundi kadavu bridge. You can visit temples like Niram Kaitha Kotta Temple of Lord Aiyappa and Mekkotta Bhagavathi Temple.

4. Kozhikode Beach: Kozhikode Beach is a serene white sand beach with popular recreation parks like Lion’s children park and a marine aquarium. Amazing sunsets can be captured from here.

5. Sarovaram park: Sarovaram park is a bio park located near to Canoly canal.

6. Tali Temple: Tali Shiva temple built around 12th century was patronized by the Zamorin kings.

You can view two others temples – Panniyankara Bhagavati Temple and Thiruvannur Siva Temple. Bhagavaty temple located near Kallayi river is built before 10th century that is even before Calicut was established. Thiruvannur Siva Temple is another 10th century temple which was earlier Jain shrine which was later converted into a Shiva temple.

7. House of Kunjali Marakkar: Kunjali Marakkars were the naval chief of the Samoothiri Raja who fought the Portuguese.

8. Kuttichira Mosque: Zamorins built the Kuttichira Mosque with Hindu architectural influence with many mosques with a tank in the center.

9. VK Krishna Menon Museum: This museum is located near to Pazhassi Raja Museum. Here you can get a peek on the life of VK Krisha Menon.

10. CSI Church

11. Kappad: Kappad beach is the place where Vasco Da Gama landed on 27 May 1498 in India. A monument has been erected in this regard there. It is located around 16 km from Calicut on the Kannur road. It is a beautiful beach and is ideal for picnic.

12. Thusharagiri Waterfalls: Thusharagiri waterfalls is located around 50 km from calicut. Here two hilly streams meet to form the river Chalippuzha. Here the river splits into three parts and plunges as a falls. The name Thusharagiri means snow capped mountains as the falls gives a feeling of snow capped hills.

13. Kirtads: Kirtads located around 7 km from Calicut features ancient tools and devices of Kerela tribal.

One may visit the Ghat section bordering Wayanad to view amazing scenic beauty. If you have time you can vist Kallai termed as one of the largest timber trading center in the world. For shopping in Calicut town do visit SM street.

Location: Malappuram shares boundary with Thrissur district in the south, Palakkad district in the south and east, Kozikode district and Wayanad district in the north, Nilgiri district of Tamil Nadu in the east and Arabian sea in the west.

District Headquarter: Malappuram

Distance: 334 km from Bangalore, 296 km from Thiruvananthapuram, 105 km from Wayanad, 98 km from Coimbatore

Journey time: Around 7 hours by bus

How to reach there: KSRTC bus, KSTC (kerela) bus, By train via Kozhikode (Calicut) Railway Station, by flight via Karipur Airport (calicut) 36 km away

Route: Bangalore – Mandya – Mysore – Gundlupet – Gudalur – Manjeri – Malappuram

Where to stay:

1. NC Gardens & Beach Resort
Ariyailur, (vallikkunnu)
Malappuram dist. Kerala state, India-676 312
Tel-91494-2471480, 81, 82
E-mail : ncgardens@sify.com
Website: http://www.ncbeachresort.com/

2. Embassy Hotel
1/377 Makkara Paramba,
Malapuram, Kerala, India
Phone:04933-282086

3. Downhill Hotel
14/239 C Down Hill Po,
Near Register Office Malappuram,
Malapuram, Kerala, India
Phone:0483-2736418

4. Emarald Hotel
2/777 Kottakkal Nr Bus Stand,
Malapuram, Kerala, India
Phone:0483-2740374

5. Golden Palace Hotel
19/162, Jubilee Road,
Malapuram, Kerala, India
Phone:0483-2735487

6. Hill Top Hotel
3/243 Wandoor Po,
Malapuram, Kerala, India
Phone:04931-248387

7. Hill Fort Hotel
UP Hill, Malapuram, Kerala, India
Phone:0483-2732025

8. Malabar Hotel
5/708 Kollarathodika House
Nilambur Chungathara. Po. Edakkara,
Malapuram, Kerala, India
Phone:04931-230479, 04931-231808

Where to eat:

1. Hotel Delicia
Delicia Complex
Near Municipal Bus Stand
Malappuram, Kerala – 676 519
Mobile :+919605 500500
Phone : 0483 2734432
E-Mail : info@deliciacaterers.com
Website: http://www.deliciacaterers.com

2. Metro Restaurant
Star Malappuram Restaurants – Metro Restaurant
2/380 Aravankara Pallippadi Pookkottur Po
Malapuram, India – 676517
Phone: 0483-2774425

and 19/462H Metrosquare Pandikkad Road Manjri
Malapuram, India – 676121
Phone: 0483-2766358

Language spoken: Mappila dialect of Malayalam, Hindi and English

Malappuram district was formed on 16th of June 1969. It was earlier a part of the large Malabar district of the Madras presidency of British India. Malappuram is popular for various art and cultural forms. Geographically too it is very rich with green forest, rivers, hills etc.

What to See:

1. Padinharekara beach: Padinharekara Beach, also known as Padinjarekara Beach is located at the end of Tippu Sultan road near poonnani. Here one can view the confluence of river Bharathapuzha, the Tirur puzha and the Arabian sea.

2. Kadampuzha Bhagavathi temple: At the Kadampuzha Sree Parvathy Temple the presiding deity is Sri Vana Durga. For more info, click here.

3. Thirunavaya: Thirunavaya is a small pilgrimage center located around 8 km from Tirur near Ponnani. Here the famous Mamankam festival takes place. Also, the popular Thirunavaya Temple is located here on the banks of Bharathapuzha river dedicated to lord Navamukundan Vishnu, Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi.

4. Nilambur: Nilambur taluk in Malappuram district is rich in wildlife, forests, climate etc. It is located near to the Nilgiri hills and on the banks of river Chaliyar around 40 km from Malappuram town and 24 km from Manjeri on the Kozhikode–Ooty road.

It offers various sightseeing options:

1. Conolly’s Plot: It is a teak plationation area near Chaliyar river. This called as Conolly’s Plot as the then British collector of malabar district planted this teak plants. It is said to be the oldest teak plantation.

2. The Teak Museum: Located around 4 km away from Nilambur town on the Nilambur-Ooty state highway, you can find various information on Teak trees and experience first hand information at the world’s first teak museum.

3. Bio Resources Park: Near the Teak museum, is the Bio resource park and a butterfly park.

4. Nedumkayam: Nedumkayam is located around 18 km from Nilambur on the way to Karulai. It is famous for its rain forest and wildlife and panoramic views one can get of the surroundings.

5. Adyan Para: Adyan Para waterfalls is located at Kurmbalangod village on the other side of Chaliyar river around 14 km from Nilambur.

6. Aruvacode: Located near Nilambur, it is popular for pottery works.

7. Central Forest Nursery: It was established the Kerela forest department in 1997 at Valluvassery for culture of seeds and saplings of various trees.

8. Primitive Tribes of Valamthode - Cholanaickers: It is located around 27 km from Nilambur at Valamthode.

9. Kovilikakams: These are residence of the earlier kings of this place.

Nilambur is also popular for the Nilambur Pattu festival which showscase the drawings with power (rongoli).

One can eat at restaurants like Vazhiyoram, wild Bine, Chicken Broast Hut and stay at KTDC Tamarind Easy Hotel, Forest Rest House and Dormitory, Nasar’s Hotel, Peevees Nilambur Manor or Hotel Redfort.

5. Kottakkal Arya Vaidya Sala: Late Vaidyaratnam P.S. Varier established Arya Vaidya Sala in 1902 at Kottakkal. It is a Charitable Institution engaged in the ancient Indian medicinal practice and propagation of Ayurveda.

website: www.aryavaidyasala.com

6. Kodikuthimala: Located around 1500 meters above sea level, Kodikuthimala is know Ooty of Malappuram.

7. Kondotty: It is popular for the Pazhayangadi Mosque

8. Tirurangadi: Here one can visit Mampuram mosque.

9. Kadalundi Nagaram: At Kadalundi Nagarm, Kadalundi river meets the Arabian sea. Here hordes of migratory birds visits every year during February to March. It is also popular for Pooram festival.

14. Tanur: Tanur located around 8 km from Tirur is said to be the oldest Portuguese settlement. 3 km from Tanur is the Keraladhesswarapuram temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

15. Ponnani: Ponnani is unique as it is the only port in Malappuram district. This town has large number of mosques. Biyyam Kayal near Ponnani is a beautiful backwaters.

Pic by sandep

Location: Thrissur District shares boundary with Ernakulam and Idukki district in the south, Palakkad district in the east and north, Malappuram district in the north and Arabian sea in the west.

District Headquarter: Thrissur

Distance: 478 km from Bangalore, 2515 from Delhi, 318 from Mysore, 367 from Mangalore, 303 from Madurai, 2281 km from Kolkata, 1017 from Hyderabad, 602 km from Chennai

Journey time: 10 – 12 hours from Bangalore

How to reach there: By Train, KSRTC bus, KSTC bus and private vehicle

Route:

1. Bangalore – Krishnagiri – Salem – Coimbatore – Palakkad – Thrissur (478 km)

2. Bangalore – Mysore – Gundulpet – Sultan’s Battery – Calicut – Edapal – Kunnamkulam – Trissur (520 km)

3. Bangalore – Mysore – Gudlepet – Gudalur – Nilambur – Shornur-Thrissur (420 km)

Where to stay:

1. Trichur Towers,
T.B. Road, Thrissur 680 021
Kerala
Phone: +91 487 425290
Fax: +91 487 425390
E-mail : trc_tcrtwr@sancharnet.in
Website: http://www.hoteltrichurtower.com

2. Love Shore Inn
Opp.Railway Station, Poothole, Thrissur
Phone : +91 487 2386606, 2386616
Fax : +91 487 2383707
E-mail : info@loveshoreinn.com, loveshoreinn@gmail.com
Website: http://www.loveshoreinn.com

3. Hotel Elite International,
Chembottil Lane, Thrissur, Kerala
Phone: +91 487 2421033
Fax: +91 487 2442057
E-mail : mail@hoteleliteinternational.com
Website: http://www.hoteleliteinternational.com

4. Kadappuram Beach Resorts,
Nattika Beach, Thrissur, Kerala
Phone: +91 487 2394988
Fax: +91 487 2394988
E-mail: info@kadappurambeachresorts.com, Kadappuram@sancharnet.in
Website: http://www.kadappurambeachresorts.com

5. Tamarind KTDC Easy Hotel
Near Indoor Stadium, Thrissur 650 020, Kerala
Phone: +91 487 2332333, 2332122
E-mail: tamarindthrissur@ktdc.com
Website: http://www.ktdc.com/tamarind-thrissur.php

6. National Tourist Home,
MG Road, Thrissur, Kerala
Phone: +91 487 3954447, 2424543, 2441961, 244151
E-mail: mail@nationalthrissur.in
Website: http://nationalthrissur.in

7. Nilayoram Resorts,
Painkulam PO, Cheruturuthy, Thrissur 679 531, Kerala
Phone: +91 487 2384788, +91 4884 262788-9
E-mail: mgmenon@sancharnet.in
Website: http://www.nilayoram.com

8. Hotel Palace Tower,
Near North Bus stand,Thrissur-680 020, Kerala
Phone: +91 487 2331666, 2338334
E-mail: mail@hotelpalacetower.com, hotelpalacetower@yahoo.com
Website: http://www.hotelpalacetower.com

Where to eat:

1. Hotel Bharath (Veg)

2. Hotel Palace Tower
North Bus Stand

3. EFC
Cemetery Road, Thrissur, Kerala

4. Essan Restaurant
High Rd, Thrissur

5. Mothimahal Multi Cuisine Restaurant
M. G Rd, Nr. Overbridge, Thrissur

6. Mayura Residency
Guruvayur, Thrissur

7. Ming Palace Chinese Restaurant
Thrissur

Language spoken: Malayalam and English

Thrissur district has come into being in July 1, 1949. The district headquarter also by the name Thrissur is known as the cultural capital of Kerela. One can find there bountiful of temples, mosques and churches. Thrissur in Malayalam means the city of Lord Shiva. It was earlier ruled by the Chera Empire of the present Tamil Nadu.Thrissur is famous for many festival and prominent among them is Pooram festival. The first church and Masjid was built here.

What to See:

1. Athirapilly Water Falls: Athirappilly Falls is formed by Chalakudy river falling from a height of 80 feet. It is located 60 km from Thrissur, 70 km from Cochin and 30 km from Chalakudy town. Around 5 km from here you can see Vazhachal falls. This area is full of wildlife and green forest. It is better to visit during day as during night roads are also used wild animals. Best time to visit is in between June and October.

Nearby two amusement parks are located – DreamWorld and SilverStorm. Many Tamil movies and one song of Hindi movie Guru was shot here.

2. Punnathur Kotta Elephant Sanctuary: It is located around 23 km from Thrissur city and is a elephant park. Punnathurkotta used to be a palace of a king but now houses elephants of Guruvayur Krishna temple. Located around 3 km from Guruvayur temple, it houses around 55 elephants now.

visiting hours: 9.30AM to 5.30PM
Entry fees : Rs. 5 per adult
Camera fees: Rs 25

3. Peechi Dam: Peechi Dam is built on Manali river around 15 km from Thrissur city. It is good picnic spot and one can go boating the reservoir. Around this area is the Peechi Wildlife Sanctuary formed in 1958. If you are lucky you can spot wildlife like elephants.

4. Chavakad Beach: Chavakad is a popular and beautiful beach located around 4 km from Guruvayur town. One can bask in coconut lagoons, virgin blue waters and a clean beach. One can see a confluence of river here.

5. Vazhani Dam: Vazhani Dam built on Vadakkancherry puzha in 1962 is located around 23 km from Thrissur city and is the biggest clay dam in Kerela. It is a popular tourist destination for its amazing garden.

6. Chimmony dam: Chimmony is built on Chimmony river in Chimmony Wildlife Sanctuary. It is located around 40 km away from Thrissur city in Mukundapuram taluk and was established in 1984. The heighest peak here is Punda peak rising more than 1000 feet. On its periphery are Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary and Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary. One a see various kinds of flora and fauna here in the evergreen and semi evergreen forests. One can halt at the Inspection Bungalow by obtaining permission from the warden, Peechi Wildlife Division.

7. Kerala Kalamandalam: Kerala Kalamandalam is a training center of various art and culture and now deemed as an university. It was formed in 1930 by some of the most renowned artists of that time.

8. koodalmanikam temple: It is a very old temple with historical references dating as back as 854 A.D. It is a beautiful architecture and deity here is Lord Sangameswara.

Website: http://www.koodalmanikyam.com/

9. Guruvayur Krishna Temple: Guruvayur Temple is located around 29 km from Thrissur city. This is one of the most important temple in Kerela and the deity here is Lord Guruvayurappan in the form of Balagopalan. If you would like you can stay there.

Website: http://www.guruvayurdevaswom.org/

One can view some other temples like Vadakumnathan temple, Paramekkavu temple, Thiruvambadi Sri-Krishna temple, Poonkunnam Shiva Temple etc.

10: Sakthan palace: It was built by the then king of Cochin state Ramavarma Thampuran in 1795 in Anglo – Dutch style.

11. Museum and Zoo:

Visiting hours : 10am to 5pm and on Wednesdays upto 1pm.
Entrance fee : Adults – Rs. 5, Children – Rs. 3 (upto 14 yrs.)
Still Camera : Rs. 5, Video Camera – Rs. 500. Open on all work days except Mondays, from 10 a.m. to 6:30p.m

12: Vilangankunnu or Vilangan Hills: It is a nice amusement and leisure park maintained by the Kerela tourism department. This 50 acre park is located around 5 km from Thrissur city.

Kerela was one of the first states in India which made a concerted effort to showcase Kerela as a tourism brand called God’s own country. Check some of the videos created by kerela Tourism to showcase that essence.

Kerala Tourism’s international campaign, Your Moment Is Waiting is a film that goes far beyond the realm of a commercial, to capture the soul of Kerala like no destination hitherto has. Stark Communications, which has been handling the Kerala Tourism brand for almost two decades, conceived, scripted and then assigned the task of creating this film to the renowned ad film maker Prakash Varma.

Chavittu Natakam, a theatre art form popular among the Christians of Kerala.

Kathakali the classical art form of Kerala is a spectacular blend of dance drama. Performed here is an excerpt from the play – Kalyansougandhikam.

To view more videos created by Kerela Tourism department, visit the Kerela Tourism Channel on YouTube.

Location: Alappuzha District shares boundary with Ernakulam district in the north, Kottayam district and Pathanamthitta District in the east, Kollam District in the south and Arabian sea in the west.

District Headquarter: Alappuzha (Earlier known as Alleppey)

Distance: 37 km from Kottayam, 63 km from Ernakulam, 159 km from Trivandrum, 64 km from Cochin, 593 km from Bangalore,

Journey time: Around 9 hrs by Bus

How to reach there: By KSRTC bus, private bus, train or by flight upto Kochi and then 54 km of road travel to Alleppey

Route: Bangalore – Hosur- Dharmapuri – Salem – Coimbatore – Palghat – Ernakulam – Alleppey

Where to stay:

1. Lemon Tree Vembanad Lake Resort
Jana Sakthi Road, Kayippuram
Muhamma, Alleppey 688525, Kerala
Telephone: 91 478 2861970
Email: hi.al@lemontreehotels.com

2. ALLEPPEY PRINCE HOTEL
A.S Road (N.H.47)
P.B. NO . 2613, Alleppey – 688007
Phone: 0477 224 3752 to 224 3757
FAX : 91-477-2243758.
E-mail : princehotel@satyam.net.in
Website: http://www.alleppeyprincehotel.com/

3. Pagoda Resorts
CCNB Road, Chungam
Alappuzha

4. Alleppey Beach Resort
Beach Road, Alappuzha

5. Royale Park
Y.M.C.A.Road – Alleppey

6. Villa Brook Heritage Home
Near Cullen Bridge – Alleppey

Where to eat:

1. Thaff Restaurant

2. Aryas Vegetarian Restaurant
Palace Road, Alapuzzha,

3. Vijaya Restaurant, Jetty Rd (veg)

4. Indian Coffee House, Mullakal Rd

5. Annapoorna Restaurant, Jetty road (veg)

Language spoken: Malayalam. Hindi and English is spoken and understood to an extent

Alappuzha was know as Alleppey during the British rule and the name was changed to current one only in 1990. It is the smallest district in kerela but has the highest population density. Alappuzha has been visited by foreign travelers since ancient times. It has large number of temples, mosques and churches.

What to See:

1. Pathiramanal: Pathiramanal is an island in Vembanadu lake in between Thaneermukkom and Kumarakom. This island houses scores of migratory birds and can be visited by a boat.

2. R-Block: These are reclaimed land for cultivation and habitation from the backwaters protected by dikes. Boat cruise in the canals here is a must.

3. Karumadikuttan: An 11 century statue of Lord Buddha is located here.

4. Kumarakodi: Great Malayalam poet Mahakavi Kumaranasan’s grave is located here around 20 km from Alleppey.

5. Saradha Mandiram, Mavelikkara: Saradha Mandiram was the residence of Travencore king Rajaraja varma. It has now been converted into a museum by the Kerela state government in his memory.

6. Krishnapuram Palace: Built in the 18th century by Travamcore royal Marthandavarma, this place has extensive architecture of murals and paintings based on the story of Gajendramoksham. It is located at karthikappally, Kayamkulam.

7. Alappuzha Beach: Here a pier extends into the sea so that one can get an all round view of the sea. The pier is over 100 years old. Entertainment facilities are available at Vijaya beach park, a small light house etc makes it a good picnic spot.

8. Sea View park: It offers boating and a swimming pool.

camera fee: Rs 15
Video camera: Rs 100

9. Revi Karunakaran Memorial Museum: Revi Karunakaran Memorial Museum is located on NH 47 near power house bridge.

Timings: Tuesday to Sunday (Monday holiday), 9 am to 2 pm
Website: http://www.rkkmuseum.com/

Lastly you should experience various boat cruise on the backwaters by the District Tourism Promotion Council.

Location: Kottayam shares boundary with Alleppey district in the west and south, Pathanamthitta district in the south, Idukki district in the east and Ernakulam district in the north.

District Headquarter: Kottayam town

Distance: Around 616 km from Bangalore, 760 km from Chennai, 266 km from Coimbatore, 1904 km from Mumbai, 2421 from Kolkata, 476 km from Mysore, 1556 km from Hyderabad, 225 km from Kodaikanal, 96 km from Kollam, 161 km from Thiruvananthapuram

Journey time: Around 8 hrs from Bangalore, 2.5 hrs from Thiruvananthapuram

How to reach there: By train, bus or private vehicle. Nearest airport at Nedumbassery.

Route: 1. Bangalore – Hosur road – Krishnagiri – Dharmapuri – Salem – Madurai – Teni – Kumily – Kottayam

2. Bangalore – Hosur road – Krishnagiri – Dharmapuri- Coimbatore–Palaghat-thrissur – Ernakulam(cochin)- Kotayam

Where to stay:

1. Orchid Residency
Pulimoodu Junction,
Kottayam, Kerala,
India – 686001
E-mail: mail@orchidresidency.com
Telephone: +91 481 2563141, 2564141, 2565141
Fax: +91 481 2564343
Website: http://www.orchidresidency.com/

2. HOTEL ARCADIA
TB Road, Kottayam,Kerala, India
Tel: +91 481 2569999, Fax: +91 481 2569999
E-mail: info@arcadiahotels.net, sales@arcadiahotels.net
Website: http://www.arcadiahotels.net/

3. Hotel Aida
M.C. Road, Kottayam
Kerala – 686 039, India.
Tel: +91-481-2568391
Fax: +91-481-2568399
E-mail: aida@asianetindia.com
Website: www.hotelaidakerala.com

Budget Hotel:

1. Hotel Anjali Park
K.K Road, Kottayam,
Kerala,India
Phone : 0481 – 2563661/2563668.
Fax : 91-481-2563669
E-Mail:: anjalipark@gmail.com
Website: http://www.hotelanjalipark.com

2. Whispering Palms Resort
New Nazarath Road

Where to eat: Coming soon

Language spoken: Malayalam, Hindi and English spoke and understood to an extent.

Kottayam was earlier ruled by independent local kings but later came under the rule of the princely state of Travancore. Kottayam district was formed in July, 1949. It is a major center of print media and education. Kottayam town was the first to achieve 100% literacy in India in 1989. It is located on the bank of Meenachil River and basin of Vembanad backwaters. It is also an important trading center for rubber.

What to See:

1. Kumarakom: Kumarakom is a small village located around 14 km away from kottayam town. It comprises a group of islands. Surrounded by backwaters it offers unimaginable beauty in the form of mangrove forests, paddy fields, coconut groves, boat rides etc. A stay at the Taj Garden Retreat, would be an amazing experience. Kumarakom hit national and international headlines when then Indian Prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee visited here in December 2000. Kerala State Tourism Development Corporation also runs cottages here.

2. Vembanad Lake: The huge Vembanad Lake is around 84 km in length and 14 km in width. Ride or stay on the popular house boats are a must here. In Vembanad Lake there are some beautiful islands along with Pathiramanal ( Midnight sand in Malayalam). Along the periphery of the lake, there is a bird sanctuary. It features over 91 species of birds including both local and migratory birds. The best time to bird watch is June-August and migratory birds during November-February. A cruise along the Vembanad Lake is the best way to experience the sanctuary.

4. Elaveezha poonchira: Elaveezha poonchira in Malayalam means a valley where leaves do not fall. poonchira valley is located around 60 km away from Kottayam town and is surrounded by three hills Mankunnu, Kudayathoormala and Thonippara. The kerela tourism department is developing this place as a trekking spot.

5. Poonjar Palace: The Poonjar Palace is located in Meenachil taluk. It features old artifacts of Kerela and beautiful sculpture like rock cut lamps. Nearby you can see a replica of Madurai Meenakshi temple.

6. Wagamon: Wagamon is small but beautiful hill station on the Kottayam – Idukki border. The maximum summer temperature is in between 10 – 23 degree. Located around 65 km away from Kottayam, it is around 1100 meters above sea level. Good for trekking and one can see tea estates, pine forest, shola forests among others.

7. Vaikom: Vaikom also know an southern Kashi, is famous for Vaikom Mahadeva Temple.