Kerala Backwater Destinations – Ashtamudi Lake in Kollam
A tour aboard a traditional houseboat at the stretch of the lake lets you admire the lush surroundings, coconut palm trees and is a treat to your eyes.
The 8 arms or channels of the Ashtamudi Lake are what gave it its name. It is the entrance to the famous backwaters of Kerala and the houseboat rides here are extremely famous. The Kollam to Alappuzha route is considered among the best in the backwaters. Cruises here give you a deeper look at the heart and spirit of the backwaters. Let the local oarsmen take you on a special journey to rediscover your soul. The lush greenery and exotic biodiversity shall enchant you forever.
You will Soak-in the beauty of the lush surroundings by opting for Ashtamudi Backwaters tour. Get close and personal to the scenery of Kollam while cruising on the placid waters of Ashtamudi Lake. This water stretch is one of the most popular and also the biggest freshwater lake of Kerala. A tour aboard a traditional houseboat at the stretch of the lake lets you admire the lush surroundings, coconut palm trees and treat your eyes to the picturesque beauty of the place.
Kappad Beach Kerala- the historic beach where Vasco-da-Gama landed!
Locally known as Kappadavu, Kappad beach is one of the main attractions of Kozhikode. A lush, serene beach shaded by inland palm trees, it has golden sands.
Things to do in Kappad Beach
Tourists can partake in a number of activities on Kappad beach. Enjoying a boat ride to the placid backwaters is one of such interesting activities. If you love swimming, you will love being here. Enjoy different kinds of beach games such as volleyball, with your loved ones. Indulge in leisure walk here.
Another highlight here is a houseboat cruise on the waters of Kapapd River, sailing down to the backwaters for some peaceful moments. Indulge in shopping, sunbathing, and sightseeing. The shops and stalls near the beach sell garments and other interesting knick-knacks. Do not forget to get your hands on special wafer-thin Banana chips. The beach shacks here serve sumptuous vegetarian and seafood delicacies.
Sightseeing in and around Kappad Beach
Kappad beach is an ideal getaway for honeymooning couples, family vacationers and water sports lovers. There are a number of places in and around the beach that are worth visiting:
Kappad Backwaters – The backwaters of Kappad are a labyrinth of canals, lakes and lagoons with placid waters and immense natural beauty. Opt for a houseboat ride here, along with a cruise down the river Kallai and Elathur Channel for some wonderful views.
Pookot Lake – Located just half a km away from the main city, Pookot is a freshwater lake, surrounded by the thick trees, making the views green and soothing.
Short rides at Kappad – The beach is enveloped by a peaceful village where the fishermen of the region have their houses. Enjoy a ride to this village to interact with the locals, to enjoy the sight of white lotus floating in ponds and their daily lifestyle. The village also has 800-yr old Hindu temple.
Thusharagiri Water Falls – Around 50 km away from Kozhikode, Thusharagiri waterfalls is a popular attraction of the region. A wonderful picnic spot, the surroundings are blessed with greenery.
Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary – Equally amid locals and tourists, Kadalundi bird sanctuary is home to both resident as well as migratory birds. The sanctuary is just km away from Kappad. Sand piper, whimbrels, gulls, and terns are some of the avifauna species that can be spotted here.
Enjoy Backwater Tours in Kerala with Chithari Backwaters
Popular for its backwaters, this place is a visited by hordes of tourists. Chithari Beach is immensely beautiful with wide sandy shores lined by lush trees.
Chithari is a picturesque place located 5 km from Kasargod, the land of Mosques, Churches, and temples. It is placed in the north of Kerala. The place is among the most beautiful in the state with beaches, hills, backwaters, and forts. Chithari is famous for a tiny tropical island, a wide sandy beach, and the emerald lagoon.
Popular for its backwaters, this place is a visited by hordes of tourists. Chithari Beach is immensely beautiful with wide sandy shores lined by lush trees. It is unbelievably immaculate, making you feel as if you have entered an enchanted land. If you are in for some peaceful time away from urbanization and crowds swarming beaches, this place will satisfy you. It is yet to be fully explored so there won’t be too many tourists.
The beach is known for the historical fort placed at its borders, called Bekal fort. Although it is now ruined, it is still the perfect place for some calm moments in nature’s arms. You can reach the island via boats and you might even find boatmen sitting there ready to escort you towards the island. The area is being endorsed as part of the Bekal Tourism Project. It will soon become one of the hottest tourist spots.
Cruises from Chithari
Valiyaparamba and Chandragiri are the major cruise alternatives in the state and both can be reached from this place, thus making it a frequently visited backwater area.
The Chandragiri backwater cruises begin near Chandragiri Bridge.
Prime Attractions
Kappil Beach
It is at a distance of 2kms from the Bekal Fort. Kodi Cliff close by offers panoramic glimpses of the picturesque Arabian Sea, 2 km from Pulikunnam Temple.
Tejaswini-Valiyaparamba Backwaters
These are only 20 km away from the Bekal fort. They are among the most picture-perfect backwaters in the state. This backwater stretch is contributed by 4 rivers and spotted with many small islands. The popular location offers magical boat cruises.
Kanwatheratha Beach
Three kilometers away from Manjeeswaram, what makes this beach so appealing is the formation of the sea that resembles a giant swimming pool.
Possadi Gumpe
It is at a distance of 15kms from Bekal. It is ideal for picnics, with its location being on a little hill 1060 feet above the sea level.
Kanhangad/Hosdurg: Popular for its forts constructed by Somashekkara Nayak, this is a must-see location. Another famous landmark here, the Nithyananda ashram, is an internationally acclaimed spiritual center. It is only 15kms from Bekal’s south.
Cheruvathur
Remains of a Dutch Fort which was constructed in the 1700s can be viewed on the Veeramal Hills.
Kottancherry
It is 30kms from Chithari. Placed near the Cauvery this tranquil area is a favorite among nature lovers and environmentalists. The nearby region of Konnakkad is the ideal place for trekking, with the rainforest and leafy surroundings found there.
Tulur Vanam
This is also called Kekulom, or the eastern place. It is located 4 km in Panathur’s east. The temple found here sanctifies Bhagavathi and Kshetrapalan. The annual festival that lasts 8 days starting from Sivarathri, welcomes huge crowds from across the district and from Coorg.
Pandiyan Kallu
It’s a rock rising out of the sea around 2 km away from Trikkannad Temple. It is the perfect spot for swimmers. If we go by the legends, the ship of a Pandiya King who assaulted the temple was transformed into a rock.
Nileswaram
It is the artistic center of Kasaragod. It was Nileswar Rajas’ seat. The place is also popular for its plenty of temple, shrines, festivals and most of all the Kavil Bhavan Yoga and Cultural Center that offers renewal therapy along with naturopathy treatments such as herbal baths and mud baths.
Bekal Fort
The fort is 14kms away from Kasargod’s south. This place is 3 centuries old and is among the biggest and most preserved forts of the state. This prominent circular formation rises 130 feet above sea level. It is placed on a 35-acre cape which runs into the Arabian Sea. A beach called Bekal Beach is a km away. It offers fascinating glimpses of this fort and also has lots of facilities for relaxation and recreation.
Kerala Backwater Destinations: Alappuzha – Kochi Cruise
Cruise leisurely through the canals in Kuttanad, popularly known as the Rice Bowl of Kerala, which is fringed by palm groves and paddy fields.
Are you a tired of exploring God’s Own Country on foot? How about enjoying the comforts of a luxurious backwater cruise? You can hire a houseboat in Alappuzha, also known as the ‘Venice of the East’. Cruise leisurely through the canals in Kuttanad, popularly known as the Rice Bowl of Kerala, which is fringed by palm groves and paddy fields.
From Kumarakom, one of the prime tourist attractions of Kerala to Vaikom, you witness a veritable world of wonders. Here this cluster of islands, has a life of its own, with its own slow, serene rhythm. The sights, sounds, and fragrances will simply surround and captivate you.
En route to Vaikom, the Vembanad Lake offers you sights of the rustic backwater village life. Your eyes will never tire of feasting on the green shores on both sides, throbbing with vigor and pure natural beauty. The soft sunlit water enchants you as the palm trees on both shores beckon you with gentle whispers in the wind. You know in your soul that this magnificent sight will remain with you for the rest of your life.
Then comes, Pathiramanal, seemingly afloat in the middle of the backwaters has many interesting myths surrounding this region. Next is Thanneermukkom, a village known for its Salt Water Barrier, popularly known as Thanneermukkom Bund. It is the largest mud regulator in India. Travelling through this region and savoring some delicious Kerala snacks is a marvelous experience.
Then to Kumbalangi via Thykkattussery, a small village surrounded by coconut groves and paddy fields, enchanting components of the backwater life. The first sight that welcomes you to Kumbalangi is that of the majestic Chinese fishing nets lining the sides of the backwaters. Pokkali cultivation, a traditional indigenous method of cultivation in which the practice of harvesting paddy is followed by prawn filtration, is a unique farming practice followed in Kumbalangi.
Having journeyed through the breezy backwaters of Kumbalangi, the cruise proceeds to Fort Kochi, known for its share of Chinese fishing nets and numerous historic sites. The place is worth exploring on foot if one is up for it. However, the sights from on board the houseboat are also fascinating. Bidding adieu to Fort Kochi, let us steer towards the Bolghatty Island.
The panoramic view of the mainland of Ernakulam city, its skyline and the shipyard on the eastern side makes you unwind. Lose yourself to the soothing breeze and the reassuring touch of sunlight.
The memory of this cruise will definitely be etched in your mind and will surely tug at your heartstrings and stir your soul for all the years to come.
Kerala Sightseeing – Kerala Sightseeing Tour Packages.
Kerala Destinations, not to be missed scenic locations & natural beauty!
Kerala, famous for hills, backwaters, beaches, waterfalls, wildlife, ayurvedic treatments and delicately spiced, taste-bud-tingling cuisine.
Kerala has an endless list of tourist destinations that will interest any traveler. Renowned for its scenic locations and natural beauty, Kerala is sure to enchant any nature lover with its hills, backwaters, beaches, waterfalls, and wildlife. The state also has a rich heritage and thriving culture one can explore by visiting the various forts, palaces, museums, monuments and pilgrim centers. Both natural and manmade brilliance await you at every turn.
Wedged between the Western Ghats on the East and the Arabian Sea on the West, the narrow strip of land known as Kerala is truly a destination of a lifetime.
Amer Fort- the best tourist attraction of Jaipur with unexpected beauty and charm.
The Amer fort stands on the rocky hill of Cheel ka Teela (Hill of Eagles) that overlooks the Jaipur and situated next to the Maota Lake.
India is a land of rich cultural heritage. The nation has been ruled by many rulers who have left their mark in the history of our nation. You can find big forts and other monuments that are an emblem of ancient architecture and also showcase the strength of the rulers of that era. When we are talking about forts then Amer Fort holds its own significance. This fort was built in 16th century by Maan Singh, who was the trusted general of Akbar. Amer Fort is also popularly known as the Amber Fort and is an important tourist destination. This magnificent fort comprises an extensive palace complex, built from pale yellow and pink sandstone, and white marble, and is divided into four main sections, each with its own courtyard.
The fort has been carved out of white and red sandstone and is exemplary when it comes to construction. The Fort exemplifies the amalgamation of Rajput and Hindu style of architecture and the embellishments implicate the amalgamation of the Hindu and Muslim style.
The key source of attraction in this fort is the carving on the roof. You can easily find paintings of ancient hunting styles, large and small portraits of the Rajput rulers. Apart from having picturesque architecture, the fort also has many other buildings that perfectly complement the fort construction, some of the popular parts of the Amer Fort include Diwan-e-Aam, SukhMandir, Sheesh Mahal and many others.
Location-
The fort is based 11 kilometers from the city of Jaipur. The gate of the fort opens at 8 AM and remain open until 6 PM.
You can also enjoy elephant ride from 7:30 to 12:30 in the afternoon. The fort is also a hub for light show which is again a key source of attraction of Amber Fort. The light show in Hindi begins from 8 PM whereas the English light show starts at 7:30 PM.
What you should not miss at Amer Fort-
- Elephant ride is a must if you are visiting this place.
- Light show in English and Hindi
- Char garden- you can see the entire city from here
- Classical dance program organized at the Sukh Mahal in the evening.
- Food at Surabhi restaurant located within the fort
- Puppet Show
Nearby Tourist Attractions
- Jaigarh Fort
- Aravalli Hills
- Vijay Garh
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2 hours transfer
Excluding Hotels : The Oberoi Raj Vilas/ Le Meridein / Fairmont / Crowne Plaza / Umed Haveli / Indiana Palace / Shiv Niwas / Tree of Life / Cambay Resort / Regenta Central Jhotawara / Sarovar Portico & Royal Heritage Haveli
2 to 4 hours transfer
Excluding Hotels : The Oberoi Raj Vilas/ Le Meridein / Fairmont / Crowne Plaza / Umed Haveli / Indiana Palace / Shiv Niwas / Tree of Life / Cambay Resort / Regenta Central Jhotawara / Sarovar Portico & Royal Heritage Haveli Private Departure Transfer : Jaipur Hotel to Airport
Excluding Hotels : Transfer to The Oberoi Raj Vilas/ Le Meridein / Fairmont / Crowne Plaza / Umed Haveli / Indiana Palace / Shiv Niwas / Tree of Life / Cambay Resort / Regenta Central Jhotawara / Sarovar Portico & Royal Heritage Haveli
Darjeeling, fondly called “Queen of the Hills”!
Nestled among the rolling mountains with the glistening Mt Kanchenjunga towering over the azure sky, Darjeeling fondly called “Queen of the Hills” provides a perfect gateway for those seeking to be in harmony with nature.
Darjeeling, the one land that all men desire to see, and having seen once-by even a glimpse would not give that glimpse for the shows of the rest of the world combined.
-Mark Twain.
Most of us know this place for tea but, wait let me tell you that Darjeeling is more than just tea estates. It is also popularly known as the Queen of Hills. Based in the Shivalik hills of the Himalayas, this place is bestowed with nature’s most beautiful colors. Similar to the other hill stations in India, Darjeeling was developed by Britishers as a respite from the scorching summers of India. Darjeeling is a complete holiday package deal offering a panoramic view, excellent weather, scented pines and golden brew or the very famous Darjeeling tea.
Darjeeling is a heaven for tea lovers. Another popular thing which makes this place gain a global recognition is the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, it connects the town with the plains, and it was in 1999 when Darjeeling Himalayan Railway was declared the declared a World Heritage Site. It is one of the few places to have an active steam engine. The city still has a strong impact of the British-style of living, from the public schools to hotels and houses, many constructions in the city still have a strong British influence.
If you have planned a trip to this city you must not miss on places like Kanchenjunga snow peaks, churches, temples, tea estates, Buddhist monasteries, temples, museums,park and garden, cable car ride which will give you perfect view of the city and many such awe-striking things which this place has to offer. It is certainly that Darjeeling in the postmodern era comprises of six T’s -Tea, Teak, Tourism, Toy Train, Tiger Hill and Trekkers’ paradise.
Flowers are everywhere. The days are cold and the sun almost seems to play hide and seek with us.
– Rabindranath Tagore.
The city of Darjeeling is more than just picturesque views, it’s more than snow-capped mountains; you can explore the local market and buy handmade crafts & jewelry, woolen clothes, jackets etc. You can keep on filling your shopping bag with the great stuff which this market has to offer but, one thing which should not be missed at all is the golden brew- TEA. You cannot afford to miss the tea from the tea’s paradise. But, make sure that you start your shopping spree a bit early as most of the shops here get closed by 8 PM.
Nestled among the rolling mountains with the glistening Mt Kanchenjunga towering over the azure sky, Darjeeling fondly called “Queen of the Hills” provides a perfect gateway for those seeking to be in harmony with nature.
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Wagah Border, a witness to the true military showmanship!
For all Indians & Pakistanis, Beating Retreat Ceremony at Wagah border is an endorsement of the pride for their country and a great attraction for tourists.
Few places don’t need an introduction, Wagah Border is one such place. Lying between India and Pakistan, this place holds its own importance when it comes to nationalism. Wagah border runs along the Grand Trunk Road between Amritsar India, and Lahore, Pakistan. Apart from being the border between India and Pakistan, Wagah Border has also become an important tourist point for people. The very famous Beating Retreat Ceremony involving military showmanship takes place at the Wagha border. This ceremony is held every day before sunset.
What does the Beating Retreat Ceremony include?
As mentioned above, you can witness this ceremony every day before sunset at the Wagah Border. It begins with the closing of international gates and lowering the flags of both India and Pakistan. This ceremony is conducted under the vigilance and guidance of Indian Border Security Force and Pakistan Rangers since 1959.The ceremony was started in the year 1969 and still continues. The rage and passion of the armed forces here is a must watch and is a key point of attraction. Once the ceremony starts the entire ambiance is filed with the raucous sound of patriotism. Patriotic songs rent the air as you wait for the confrontation to begin when tall sentries from each country raise their leg high enough for their boots to touch their headgear and stamp the ground hard enough for the impact to be heard over the cheers of spectators.
As the flags are lowered and folded with respect, the audiences watch in an awed hush. The sound of the pounding boots, the murderous looks exchanged by the soldiers, the brisk handshakes and the loud clang as the gates shut for the day is typical sub-continent showmanship. For all Indians and Pakistanis there, it is an endorsement of the pride they feel for their country.
No one seems to be sure when exactly the flag-lowering ceremony began attracting tourists, but today, galleries constructed on either side can hold up to 20,000 people — the border crossing turns into a full-fledged stadium at sunset.
The border is 22 kilometers away from Lahore 29 kilometers from Amritsar. The military showmanship of the armed forces of both the nations continues for 30 minutes, during which the soldiers of both the nation meet at the border post. The objective behind this ceremony is to officially close the border for the night. But, it has become a great point of attraction for the tourists.
Both sides of the border have a gargantuan gate which is emblazoned with “Swarn Jayanti Dwar”. The national anthem, military showmanship and applauds of the nation completely fill with you immense pride and feeling of patriotism. There is a complete seating arrangement for the visitors so that they can come and enjoy the entire show.
Time Required: 1-2 hours
Cost: No entry fee, but, it will be good if you reach before time to grab your seat.
Open Time: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM. During winters, the ceremony starts at 4:15 PM and 5:15 PM in summers.
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THINGS YOU SHOULD DO EVERY TIME YOU TRAVEL
Just put your explorer’s cap on and get curious because here is list of ‘what to do’ every time you travel to transform your trips from ordinary to extraordinary.
It doesn’t matter if you’re an expert wanderer, a seasoned solo adventurer, a novice traveler, or a group tour enthusiast; it takes a lot of courage and determination to travel. The secret to traveling well is the curiosity to experience the cultures and countries in full. Traveling is so much more than just visiting the touristy highlights. You’ve booked your transportation, you’ve arranged a place to stay, you’ve packed your stuff, and you’ve finally arrived at your destination. Now what…?
Just put your explorer’s cap on and get curious because here is list of ‘what to do’ every time you travel to transform your trips from ordinary to extraordinary-
1. Venture the unexplored
Apart from the itinerary, there must be plenty of adventures to be experienced by venturing off the beaten path. If you’re navigating a new city with a group, ask the guide for off the beaten path recommendations for your down time. And if alone, then find a neighborhood and explore it on foot and don’t forget to make sure you tell someone where you’re going ahead of time, for safety’s sake.
2. Say YES to Public transport
The fastest way to live like a local is to take public transport. Buses especially help you grasp neighborhoods. Here you will engage with everyday people going about their everyday lives. This is a great one for travelers who love to “people watch.” Be sure to pick a window seat!
3. Avoid the tacky souvenirs
Take the time to go into local shops and have a browse. If something catches your eye and stirs your soul: buy it! Trust me, a homemade hand woven rug in a market from an old lady who had been making them all her life would be cherished more than those shoes from a gift shop.
4. Don’t miss a moment
Don’t get caught up in taking photos – yes, they are wonderful keepsakes to remind you of your travels when you get home, but often travelers get so busy taking a photo that they miss the magic moments.
5. Document your journey
Keep a diary/journal. Not only is it a great way to document your trip, it’s a great way to preserve your trip memories for the ones you love back home. It is really helpful to look back on the trip and remember the most wondrous of details, big and small.
6. Eat somewhere local
While you’re chatting up the locals, ask them what their favorite neighborhood restaurant is. If you’re adventurous, follow their recommendation without a Google search.While you’re at it, ask them for their favorite menu item as well.
7. Be local, learn local
This is my favourite thing you should do every time you travel. At least one day in each destination, live like a local – get up early and grab a cup of coffee from the local coffee shop, catch public transport, go to the supermarket and buy ingredients to make lunch, enjoy the afternoon walking around a local park, and relax in the evening by treating yourself to dinner at a locals-only restaurant. Learn a few key phrases and strike up a conversation.
8. Challenge yourself
After all, you didn’t travel miles to do the “same same ” that you do back home, did you? So just challenge yourself and step out of your comfort zone, each and every day you’re on your trip. Do something you haven’t/couldn’t do back home like trying a food item you’ve never had before or Go on a tough hike and Face your fears.
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Amritsar- a city for peaceful and tranquil visit!
If you are looking to head to a calm and serene place which can induce tranquillity and peace in your mind and soul then Amristar is the right place.
If you are looking to head to a calm and serene place which can induce tranquillity and peace in your mind and soul then Amristar is the right place. It is one of the largest city of Punjab and is known to be a religious hub for the Sikh’s who come and worship at the Golden Temple located here. Amritsar is known for its introverted planning system which has unique areas called as Katras.
Although the city has many relics but is best known for Golden Temple. The Golden temple is renowned for its golden dome and is one of the most sacred pilgrimages of the Sikhs. This temple has been carved on 67-ft square marble and is built with 400 kg gold leaf.
If you are visiting Amritsar, then be geared up to visit other places in its vanity. The Golden Temple is surrounded by various famous temples like Durgiana Temple. Here are a few places that you must visit if you visit this holy city-
1. Jallianwala Bagh – If you visit Amritsar, you should never miss a chance to visit this historical place where so many people died in the British era. Although it’s a tragic monument, yet it holds a lot of historical significance. This is the place where Amritsar Massacre of 1919 took place. You can still see the marks of bullets on the walls of Jallianwala Bagh.
2. Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum – One of the most renowned and popular kings of Punjab, Maharaja Ranjit Singh has a museum in his name. The palace of Maharaja Ranjit Singh has been converted into a museum and is a must visit if you wish to see how glorified and brave this king of Punjab was. The museums display articles, paintings, coins, manuscripts related to the Maharaja.
3. Wagah Border – If you are in Amritsar, save the date and day for a visit to the Wagah Border which is around 29 km from the city. From shouts of patriotism to the powerful show put up by the BSF and Pakistan Rangers, Wagah border will surely add to the enthusiasm of your trip.
Apart from these places, you can also visit, Gurdwara Bibeksar Sahib, Chand Baori, Dukh Bhanjani Ber Tree, ISKCON Amritsar Sri Sri Radha Gokulananda.
So, what are you waiting for? Come be a witness to the city of serenity. Book with us.
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