House Boat

House Boats have all the creature comforts of a good hotel but none of those hassles: well-furnished bedrooms, modern hygienic toilets, cosy living rooms, beautiful kitchen and in some cases even a balcony for angling. Most House Boat are powered by remarkably unobtrusive outboard engines: some are poled by experienced oarsmen.A ride in a House Boat is the most stunning experience you could ever float into, or get floated into. And, nothing like it, if it rains while you are cozy inside the luxurious House Boat. It will be the most charming moment of your life. You could watch millions of drops of water splashing and pounding on the rhythm of the falling rain like you never had in all your life.


The Kettuvallam is a large floating structure with high load carrying capacity. Kettuvallam is made completely of jackwood plants tied (ketu) together with strong coir rope to form a huge barge (vallam). The boat is constructed without using a single nail and is coated with a special resin obtained from boiling cashew kernels. Each a masterpiece of intricate craftsmanship, the 'kettuvallam' lasts, not for years, but for generations.

Beaches in Kerala

Kerala offers some of the finest beaches in India. The entire length of Kerala coast almost is lined with sandy beaches, rocky promonotories and coconut palms. The palm-lined beaches of kerala are famous for its gentle surf and azure blue waters. To this must be added the delectable seafood cuisine,abundant sunshine and a friendly people to make an memorable holiday. Visitors throng to these places every year in search of the tranquil, palm fringed beaches that Kerala has in abundance..The finest beaches are at Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Alappuzha, Ernakulam, Malapuram, Kozhikode and Kasargod.

Festivals of Kerala

Every year, in the lush villages around Kovalam (18 km from Thiruvananthapuram), mid January is the time for cultural events. The traditional thatch houses are decorated during this ten day long festival and are the venue for folk dances, music and festivities.

Onam
Onam the harvest festival, is celebrated annually throughout Kerala during August-September. Kerala’s most important festival is celebrated in the honour of the ancient asura king Mahabali. The occasion also heralds the harvest season. The decorating of houses with carpets of flowers, a sumptuous lunch and songs in praise of the golden reign of Mahabali, mark the ten day long festivities. A major attraction of the Onam celebrations are the famed snake boat races along the backwaters at Champakulam, Aranmula and Kottayam.

Onam heralds the harvest festival and is also according to folklore the time of the year when the king Mahabali, the legendary ruler of an ancient golden era in Kerala, returns from the depths of the nether world to visit his beloved subjects. It is an unusual festival, in the sense that it reverses the memory of the local 'asura' (demon) king, Mahabali (who is also affectionately called Maveli or Onathappan), whom Lord Vishnu coming down to earth as Vamanan, a Brahmin boy, cleverly exploited the very benevolence of this great king to oust him from his kingdom.

So attached was the king to his country and subjects, that he asked for and was granted permission to visit his subjects once every year. Onam is considered to be that day on which King Mahabali comes top visit the beloved subjects of his kingdom. Houses are cleaned, everyone wears the new Onam clothes (Onakkodi) they have received and floral decorations are put to give a fitting welcome to the beloved ruler during whose rule the kingdom was said to have been at its glorious.

Legend has it that the gods became envious of the king because he was so well adored and loved by his subjects that Indran, the king of the devas felt that his position was under threat due to the immense popularity enjoyed by Mahabali among his subjects. So he requested Lord Vishnu's help whereby the lord devised a scheme to get rid of Mahabali and sent him into exile in the nether world. Lord vishnu came down to earth in the guise of Vamanan, a poor Brahmin boy and requested the ever benevolent king for three foot measures of land to meditate upon. The king asked Vamana to measure and take the same from anywhere he wanted. On getting the king's permission. Lord Vishnu transforms into his cosmic form and covers the earth and all the other worlds in his first two root measures and asks the king where he should get his third foot measure of space from.

The king being a man of great honour could not even think of going back on his word and offered his own very head whereby lord Vishnu' put his foot over the king's head and pushed him down to 'patalam'. Before being sent down, the king requested Lord Vishnu permission to visit his country and people and was given permission to return to his people one each year. It is this occasion of Mahabali's annual visit that is celebrated as Onam.

Onam is a great time to be in Kerala, as this beautifully lush green region combines a celebration of its warring and seafaring traditions with festivities honouring the ancient asura king Mahabali, Kaikottikkali is a folk dance form performed by the women all over the State during Onam with clapping of hands by the performers.

While caparisoned elephants go out in procession, beautifully decorated snake boats races on the backwaters and cultural events lend colour to the festivities.

Pooram

The colourful Pooram festival is held in Thrissur at its fine Vadakkumnathan Temple in the month of May. Processions of beautifully caparisoned elephants provide a magnificent spectacle. The festival is rounded off at night by dazzling firework displays.

Vishu
Vishu occupies a unique position in more than one respect.This day is celebrated in almost all places in India by the Hindus albeit by different names. In Bihar this day is called Bihu, in Punjab Baisakhi and in Tamil Nadu Puthandu.

Though this is not the New Year's Day in the Malayalam Calendar, people of Kerala consider Vishu the beginning of a new year Vishu Kani’ - a display of grain, fruits, flowers, gold, new cloth and money, is viewed early in the morning to ensure a prosperous year ahead. Firework displays and the buying of new clothes are a part of the festivities.

Kerala the land of ayurveda

A perfect ancient science of life-Ayurveda.The literally meaning of the word Ayur means life and Veda means the science or knowledge. Ayurveda briefly explains the knowledge of the do’s and don’ts one has to follow, which favours the well being of each individual to lead a healthy, happy, comfortable and advantageous life both physically, mentally and socially. Ayurveda also emphasizes that prevention is better than cure.

The practice of herbal medicine dates back to the very earliest periods of known history. There is evidence of herbs having been used in the treatment of diseases and for refreshing body systems in almost all ancient civilizations-the Indian, the Egyptian, the Chinese and even the Greek and Roman civilizations. Plants were the mainstay of medicine and credited with spiritual and almost supernatural powers of healing . Herbs are used in many different ways. The ultimate objective of their use is that they should interact directly with our body chemistry.

Kerala with its best natural abundance of forests has very rich source of herbs and medicinal plants, which are best suited for Ayurveda’s curative and restorative programs. In fact, today Kerala is the only state in India, which practices this system of medicine with absolute dedication. Rejuvenate your body, mind and soul by taking Ayurveda treatment atleast once in your life time.

In India, the records indicate, that herbs have been in use for treating diseases since ancient times.

A firmly ample information about herbs has been recorded in Charaka Samhita and Shusruta Samhita -the two most important works on Ayurvedic system medicine.

Wild Life

Kerala are fourteen wildlife sanctuaries. And skirting these exotic destinations are some of the most delightful trails in the country. Thiruvananthapuram, Idukki , Kannur , Palaghat , Trichur ,Kollam and Wayanad offers some of the best wildlife sanctuaries and trekking trails of Kerala.


Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary
Idukki and Kulamavu - extending up to 33 sq. kms - forms part of this wildlife sanctuary.Elephants, Bison, Sambhar, Deer, Wild dogs, Jungle cats, Tiger, Wild boar etc are found here, as also Jungle fowl, Myna, Laughing thrush, Black bulbul, Peafowl, Wood pecker and the King fisher.


KOLLAM – Quilon
Shendurney Wildlife SanctuaryThe Shendurney river is the only Wildlife Sanctuary in Kollam district.. The sanctuary covers a total area of 250 sq kms and is acclaimed the world over for its bio-diversity.accommodation, spices etc.

The Parappar dam has been built across the Shendurney River and serves the purpose of irrigation in Kollam and Pathanamthitta districts.


Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
KottayamKumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Kottayam is one of the best destinations of wild life sanctuaries in Kerala.Main attractions : Local Birds like the water fowl, cuckoo, owl, egret, herons and the water duck, as well as the migratory Siberian duck.

Bird watch - The best time for bird watching in Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is between June and August.(Migratory birds : November - February)


Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary
The Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary was designed by Dr. Salim Ali, the renowned ornithologist . He is reported to have identified 167 birds and his student , Dr. Sugathan, 207. In addition, theBombay Natural History Society has identified 253 species here.Main attractions: Birds: Indians rollers, cuckoos, common snipes, crow, pheasants, jungle nightars, kites, grey drogos, Malabar trogons, woodpeckers, large pied wagtails, baya sparrows, grey jungle fowls, Indian hill mynas, robins, jungle babblers sun birds, and darters.


Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary - Kohikode
The Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary is a Haven for migratory birds. Terns, Gulls, Herons, Sand pipers, Whimbrels and other such migratory birds flock from the month of November and returns only by the end of April. It is 25 kms. from Kozhikode. The ideal season to visit is from December to April in the early hours of the day.


ThiruvananthapuramAgasthya Vanam Biological park
Agasthya Vanam Biological park has been set up for the regeneration, conservation, and propagation of a variety of wild animals, birds and plants. Though the area selected has negligible tree growth and wildlife, it has water sources in abundance and the soil is suitable for large scale afforestation.

Hillstations

The hillstations in Kerala offers some of the best magnificent views of the nature. Almost in all the district the hills gives the tourist an energising atmosphere.Trekking, rock climbing and other adventures activities can be liven up in ones journey to these hills stations of Kerala.

SOME OF THE HILLSTATIONS ARE AT
Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, Idukki, Palakkad, Malapuram, Kozhikode, Wayanad, Kannur, Kasargod.

Kerala-Overview

Kerala - The Gods Own Land, on India's southernmost tip is the latest spot to open up to mass tourism and judging by the number of repeat bookings for next year, its future as a winter sun holiday hot spot is assured.Kerala, retaining the distinctive charm of India, differs from the rest of the sub-continent in a number of ways. Its population of 26 million has the highest literacy rate in India, the landscape is lush and fertile, supporting coconut, mango, papaya and all manner of exotic fruit. Its history is different too having been colonized by Chinese traders, Portuguese settlers and finally the British, resulting in a cultural blend in India.

South India Tour-Overview

South India is one of the most amusing tourist destinations on earth for the discerning globe trotters. South India has fascinated the world with its mystical culture, a civilization divided and united by its diversity, a land enhanced by the richness of its culture. Filled with utter excitement and thrill, South India is a must travel destination for any holiday-lover! South India offers- Cultural Tours, Religious Tours, Temple Tours, Spice Tours, Tribal Tours, Rail Tours, Bikes Hikes Tours, Boats Tours Backwater Tours.It offers wonderful experiences - irresistible beauty of the hills of Munnar and Ooty, exotic wildlife at the sanctuaries of Periyar, Mudumalai, Bandipur and Nagarhole. Each segment of travel has its own peculiarities. A fantastic mix of adventure and sightseeing, this is a fun-filled holiday!

Kanchipuram

Kanchipuram-the city of thousand temples, is popular for its renowned crafted world famous silk sarees, a traditional home industry. The pilgrimage city of Kanchipuram is filled with reminders of an ancient history while further down the coast is one of India's rare French colonial possessions,Pondicherry, where Auroville has found a new role in the 'New Age'. The road south from Pondicherry puts one back on the temple trail, leading to Chidambaram. Kancheepuram is popular for its Kancheepuram is also known for its culture and civilisation. Kancheepuram is easily accessible from the state capital Chennai. It is a place to visit for everyone.

Government Museum

The first Government-sponsored Museum in the country opened in Chennai in 1851. Government Museum is located on Pantheon Road in Egmore, Chennai. Established in 1857, Government Museum is one of the best museums of India. Government Museum originally belonged to the Pantheon Committee that comprised of a group of British citizens that were in charge of improving the social life of the British living in Chennai at that time. It is known for the finest bronze collections in the world.

The most impressive bronze statue of Lord. Ardhanarishwra, an incarnation of Lord Shiva, the relics from the 2nd century AD Amravati Buddhist site and the prehistoric South India are some of the most priced collections of Government Museum in Chennai.

Government Museum is an amalgam of various sections like the ones devoted to geology, anthropology, numismatics, botany, zoology, archaeology and sculpture. Watch out exquisite carvings, a good collection of arms, armour, a collection of South Indian musical instruments, jewellery and exhibits from the Stone and Iron ages. Get to know more about the Government Museum during Chennai Tours. This Museum is worth visiting. It is open for public on all the days from 9:30am to 5.00pm.

Valluvar Kottam

Established in 1976, Valluvar Kottam , a unique bit of modern building in the city is the huge auditorium that draws its inspiration from the great temple builders of Tamil Nadu's past located on Kodambakkam High Road and Village Road in Chennai. It was built as a memorial to the poet-saint Tiruvalluvar, whose most famous for his classic work, the Kural. Designed in the temple car of Thiruvarur, Valluvar Kottam is a shrine worth paying a visit during Chennai Tours.

The beauty of the life-size statue of Thiruvalluvar is captivating with its pure expressions. The 133 chapters of his famous work Thirukkural have been depicted in bas-relief in the front hall corridors of the chariot. The auditorium at Valluvar Kottam is said to be the largest in Asia and can accommodate about 4000 people. It stands as a modern memorial to the great poet who represents the glorious culture of the Tamils.

Valluvar Kottam is constructed on a land that was filled with the city’s garbage and debris in Chennai. Eliminating the pillar support, the auditorium in Valluvar Kottam was built with grid type roofing. Stone in the corridor running inside and outside the auditorium are engraved with couplets from the Tirukkural. The auditorium in Valluvar Kottam is considered as one of the largest auditoriums in Asia. Valluvar Kottam is a memorial that was created with over 3000 blocks of stone. Valluvar Kottam is open for the public on all days except Fridays and National Holidays. Timings are from 8am to 6pm.

Dakshina Chitra

DakshinaChitra is a center for the living traditions of art, folk performing arts, craft and architecture of India with an emphasis on the traditions of South India. It is a depiction of the way of life prevalent in South India. A trip down Dakshinachitra takes you back to traditional home architecture from Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Karnataka. Started with the objective to revive, preserve and promote the arts and crafts of South India, it also serves as heritage education for visitors from outside South India and also for children who have never had the opportunity to experience their culture. More than four years old, Dakshinachitra was founded by the Madras Craft Foundation. Conceived by its Chairman Deborah Tyagarajan, it is has been brought to life by the British Architect, Lawrie Baker.

Birla Planetarium

Known as the most modern planetarium in India, Birla Planetarium is located between Adyar and Guindy at Kotturpuram. Birla Planetarium was built in the memory of B.M. Birla, the famous industrialist and visionary and is therefore known as B.M. Birla Planetarium. Birla Planetarium is a voyage of discovery for the young and the old. Birla Planetarium is a part of the Periyar Science and Technology Museum. This air-conditioned modern planetarium with a seating capacity of 236 brings to life celestial phenomena replete with special effects. It also conducts courses in astronomy and night-sky observations for public on every second Saturday.

The main attraction of Birla Planetarium includes the sophisticated and versatile GM II projector. Get to see the most inspiring heavenly phenomena on the aluminum inner dome of the special effects projector at none other than the Birla Planetarium in Chennai. In the planetarium, you will also find a classroom, studio and a seminar hall. Eminent professionals in the field of astronomy conduct workshops and discussions at the Birla Planetarium in Chennai. Birla Planetarium also show programs on the cosmic world that gives the audience an unforgettable experience making them feel one with the mysterious universe. These shows are held both in English and in Tamil. English show timings are like 10:45am, 12:15pm and 4:35pm. On the other hand the Tamil show timings are 12:00 noon and 2:30pm. Apart from these shows, there is night sky watching arranged on second Saturdays between 7pm and 9pm. Get to know more about the Birla Planetarium during Chennai Tours.

Crocodile Bank

Spread over an area of 3.2 hectares, Crocodile Bank is a place established with an aim to protected and conserve the endangered species of African and Indian crocodiles. . This crocodile bank is on the way to Mahabalipuram and is run by Romulve Whittaker. India is the main attraction of the Crocodile Bank in Chennai. Crocodile Bank plays an important role in spreading awareness that crocodiles play an ecological role in feeding on the weak and sick fishes. Crocodiles are considered one of the most horrifying and unloved creatures and the Crocodile Bank is an endeavor in spreading love for these creatures. About 5,000 species are kept in their natural surroundings in open pools. They can be viewed from a safe distance. It was in 1976, when herpetologist Romulus Whitaker, inaugurated the Crocodile Bank in Chennai. Another attraction of the Crocodile Bank is its snake farm, where visitors can see the demonstration of venom extraction from the snakes. Crocodile Bank is also famous for conducting researches on turtles and lizards, these both species are found in the same habitats as that of the crocodiles. Get to know more about Crocodile Bank in Chennai during Tours to Chennai

Santhome Cathedral

Built over the tomb of apostle St. Thomas, the Santhome Cathedral is an important pilgrimage centre. According to legends, St. Thomas arrived in India from Palestine in AD 52 and died after 26 year. The church was built after a millennium, probably by the Persian Christians, and his remains were moved inside. The church was rebuilt again with the satatus of a cathedral by the British in 1893. . The British version still stands today. It was designed in neo-Gothic style favored by British architects in the late 19th century. In the mid-20th century, it was upgraded to the status of a Basilica.

Marina Beach

Marina Beach,the pride of Chennai, is the second largest beach in the world. The beach extends from Fort St. George all the way to Mahabalipuram. The beach looks spectacular at dusk when the setting sun casts iridescent glow and peddlers sell everything from ice creams to roasted peanuts to balloons. You can also read your future from the fortune tellers and palm readers who lure the visitors by various means. Don't try to show your swimming skills here as the sea can get quite rough here. On the sea- front, lie memorials dedicated to political leaders and freedom fighters. The Aquarium, Light House and Boulevard of Walks, gardens and drives make the beach one of the best attractions of the city. It looks like a festive ground on weekend evenings.

Fort St. George

Fort St. George Presently used as the state secretariat, the St. George Forte is another landmark of Chennai. Built in 1640, the fort stills retains its large walls, massive wrought iron gates and deep moats. The fort has a grey granite exterior unlike the Mughal forts that has lavish ornamentation and luxury. It housed barracks for the British army, a parade ground, and the oldest church of Chennai-the St. Mary's Church.Fort St. George has grown into George Town, the commercial heart of the city throbbing with life from dawn to dusk. Walk to The Fort St George over the lovely grassy expanse of Midsummer Common and take a seat on one of the many picnic tables arrayed in its courtyard, from where you can gaze back over the common. Even better, wander round the back to the outside tables in spitting distance of the calmly flowing River Cam, with its many boat houses and passing rowers. The sight of men and women out on the river straining to pull their oars makes you feel happier to be taking it easy.

Mamallapuram

Mamallapuram or Mahabalipuram is the best place to start a temple tour is Mamallapuram, a seaside village. It is situated at the outskirts of Chennai and is approximately 61 km from the main city. The artisanship of this place is beyond parallel. The world-famous town of Mahabalipuram or Mamallapuram is a must visit from Chennai. The 'Descent of the Ganga', which is another interpretation of the bas-relief, is a brilliant composition in stone. Myriad ornamental figures of celestial beings are shown adorning the divine spectacle.

Chennai

Chennai, the gracious capital city of Tamil Nadu is one of India’s major port and the commercial hub of South India. Chennai, formerly known as Madras is the gateway to southern India, established in 1639 by the East India Company, is one of the oldest cities of the country. It became a metropolitan city and emerged as fourth largest city in the country. Located on a 17km stretch of the Coramandel coast, the city is trisected by the waterways of Cooum and Adyar and the Buckingham Canal.

Chennai is a city of charm, courtesy and culture. It is a vibrant city ever growing, expanding and changing every year. On your Chennai tour you will discover that Chennai's culture is distinct from that of north India. Explore the music, dance and other art forms of the South, on tours to Chennai. Experience the gracious beauty with a wide range of tourist attractions Chennai with its long sandy beaches, parks and historical landmarks has all the ingredients for being a successful tourist attraction. While there are many magnificent temples that are not only notable for their religious value but more for the archaeological and beauty of construction, the city also hosts numerous churches. The city is believed to have been the place of St. Thomas and there are numerous churches that are believed to have connection with the life and times of this apostle.

Chennai is a city where the traditional and the modern blend in life everywhere. From traditional vegetarian fair to fast food, from nine-yard saris to the latest in fashion, from ancient temple architecture to modern high-rises, from classical music and dance to discos throbbing to heady beats, Chennai has them all and many more vivid contrasts that you can discover on your tour with Chennai Hub. The world-famous town of Mahabalipuram or Mamallapuram is a must visit from Chennai. The shore temple, the largest bas-relief in the world called Arjuna's Penance and mandapams are the main attractions here. The golden triangle of southern Indian comprises of Chennai, Mahabalipuram and Kanchipuram. The Kanchi weaves are known to produce the finest silk fabric. The world-renowned shrine of Tirupati draws innumerable devotees all through the year. It is abode of the legendary Lord of the Seven Hills. Many of the Indian languages are spoken in Chennai, though the main language of Chennai is Tamil. For travellers with an interest in the colonial history of India, Chennai has much worth exploring and abundant transport operations make other parts of the country readily accessible.

Chennai has served as an important administrative, military, and economic centre dating back to the 1st century. It has been ruled by South Indian kingdoms, notably the Pallava , the Chola, the Pandya and Vijaynagar empires. The town of Mylapore, now part of the metropolis, was once a major port of the Pallava kingdom.The South Indian culture is distinctly different from that of all other parts of India and is probably experienced at its best in Chennai. You will get to experience the very best of distinct South Indian culture at Chennai. With time, though Chennai has increasingly been modernized and industrialized it still preserves traditionalism and is pretty much conventional in many ways.