Thiruvananthapuram

Thiruvananthapuram, or Trivandrum, the capital city of God's Own Country is the southern most district of Kerala. The beautiful seaside city built on seven hills is an ancienct city that offers all the modern facilities to the traveller and is also a centre of cultural activites. Situated just 80km away from the southern tip of the Indian peninsula, it offers a number of travel options with good facilities in accomodation, connectivity and scenic spots. Apart from the world famous Kovalam Beach, the place has beautiful backwaters, hill stations, temples, palaces, architecture, heritage walk, etc. all of which mesmerise the visitor.

Major tourist attractions here include SriPadmanabha Swami Temple, Kanakakunnu Palace, Vizhinjam, the Science anad Technology Museum, the Government Secretariat, Kowdiar Palace, Senate House, Veli Lagoon, Ponmudi hill station, Vettukad Church, Koyikkal Palace at Nedumangad, Sankhumugham Beach, Aruvikkara, Beema Palli, Anchuthengu Fort, Napier Museum, etc. The city is well connected to all parts of india by road, rail and air. Flights to international destinations are also available.

Varkala

Varkala, one of the most sought after beaches in Trivandrum district, is a upcoming destination in kerala. The main speciality of Varkala its exceptional landscape with high cliffs in front of the beach. Varkala retains a serene, rural atmosphere with rich vegetation. Quality accomodation facilities are available at Varkala as renowned hotel groups have put up properties there. Varkala is an important Hindhu centre of pilgrimage with the 2000 year old Sree Janardhana Swamy Temple and the Sivagiri mutt. More and more development activities are being carried out here taking this destination to higher standards.

Varkala is well connected by road and has a railway station, though the main railway station close to it is at Quilon. The nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport, 50 km away. Prisitine waters, white sandy beaches, clear skies, towering cliffs and array of swaying coconut trees all combine to give travelers to Varkala an unforgettable beach holiday.

Kollam

Kollam, formerly known as Quilon, is famous as the land of cashew nut. The district is situated to the north of Thiruvananthapuram. It is also considered to be the gateway to the backwaters of Kerala. In its past gloy, Kollam was renowned trading port of spices and other commodities. The district is also a fishing centre which provides different provides different types of fishes from both the sea and the backwaters. Kollam provides many tourism options like temples, backwaters, lush landscapes, boat cruises, etc. The largest freshwater lake, the Sasthankotta Kayal. is in this district.

Thirumullavaram Beach, Sasthamkotta Lake, Thenmala, India's first planned ecotourism project, Palaruvi waterfalls, Achencoil, Anchal, Aryankavu, Chavara, Karunagappally, Kottarakkara, Kulathuppuzha, Oachira, Pattazhi, Thangassery Light House, Thazhava, Jetayu Para and Courtallam Falls are the main tourist spots in kollam.

Kollam is easily accessible by road and has a major railhead. the nearest international are Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (75km) and Kochi Airport (150km).

Alappuzha

Alappuzha is a veritable maze of bridges and canals, the presence of which has given it the appellation "Venice of the East". A place immersed in natural beauty, this destination enjoys a unique position in the maritime history of Kerala due to its proximity to the sea. Kuttanad, the Rice Bowl of Kerala, is in Alappuzha district. Alappuzha is also the place of many boat races. Places of interest include pathiramanal, an island on the backwaters; Karumadikuttan, statue of Lord Buddha associated with fascinating legends of 11th century; Krishnapuram palace built by Maharaja Marthanda Varma in Kayankulam which is famous for its 18th century murals depicting the story of Gajendramoksham and Alappuzha Beach, one of the most beautiful picnic spots.The District Tourism Promotion Council regularly offers tour package and backwater cruise packages in the Alappuzha - Kollam - Kumarakonam sectors.

Alappuzha is connected by all means of transportation to other parts of the state and the country. The nearest airports are Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (156km) and Kochi International Airport (106km)

Pathanamthitta

Pathanamthitta district situated beside the Western Ghats is the pilgrimage capital of kerala.The district, with thick vegetation and mountain ranges, offers the travellers unending forests, rivers and landscapes, Sabarimala, situated 72km from pathanamthitta town, is one of the most important Hindhu pilgrim centres in India. The temple is situated amidst dense forests. During the pilgrimage season millions of pilgrims from different parts of the country visit this shrine by foot through the jungle trails.

Aranmula village is pathanamthitta district has been declared as an international tourism destination and is also included in the cultural tourism programme.

The biosphere created by the mountains and rivers supports a wide variety of flora and fauna. The exotic wildlife of this region is an added attraction for visitors to the region. Trekking and adventure sport options are also available. The main places of interest include Aranmula, Charalkunnu, kakki, Konni, Mannady, Muloor Smarakom, Pathanamthitta, Thiruvalla, Pamba, Parumala, Pandalam, Manjanikara, Mannadi, Cherukolpuzha, Kadamanitta, Kodumon Chilanthiyambalam, Perunthenaruvi Falls.

Thekkady

Thekkady Wildlife Sanctuary, one of the 27 tiger reserves in india, is spread over an area of 777sq. km. Situated in Idukki district, it is one of the most beautiful and picturesque places in Kerala. Today it has turned into one of the favourite locations for cinematography with its scenic beauty. Thekkady lies 4,000 - 5, 000ft above sea-level on the Western Ghats. The sanctuary showcase a large variety of flora and fauna like deers, monkeys, tigers, elephant herds and others. The place can be viewed best by taking a boat ride in the lake surrounding the sanctuary. Partially submerged tree-trunks can be seen in this charming artificial lake. Adventurous activities like jungle trekking are also among the options available visitors.

Kumili, Kurisumala, Murukady, chellarkovil, Vandanmedu, Pandikuzhya and Panchalimedu are the main tourist attractions around Thekkady. The nearest railway station is kottayam and the nearest airport is cochin International Airport 190km away. Road transport is available for the travellers to reach

Thekkady.

Kannur

Kannur, a land with great history and traditional charm, is one of the Malabar districts having rich tourism potential. It is reputed for its folk art forms, especially 'Theyyam'. The areas coming under the district have a significant place in the historical, cultural and political life of Kerala.

Kannur has always been a favoured destination for travellers for both trade and leisure. Its many attractions include the mouthwatering Malabar cuisine.

Payyambalam Beach, Baby Beach, Meenkunnu Beach, Thottada Beach, Mappila Bay, St. Angelo's Fort, Azhikkal Ferry, Muzhappilangad Beach, Kizhunna Beach, Parassinikkadavu Muthappan Temple, Kottiyur Temple, Madai Mosque, English Church at Thalassery, Dr.Hermann Gundert's house at Illikunnu, Sri Rama temple at Thiruvangad, Odathil Palli and Overbury's Folly are some of the tourist highlights of Kannur.

Kannur is well connected with roadways to other parts of the country and has a main railhead in the town. The nearest international airport is at Kozhikode.

Wayanad

Wayanad is one of the undiscovered destinations of Kerala offering numerous of options to the travellers. This hill station is rich in wildlife, tribal life and heritage, all complemented by a cool climate. The unique hilly terrian of Wayanad gives the options for trekking and adventurous experiences too. Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, a part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, located 18km East of Sultan Bathery. Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary, and situated on the northern boundary of the district bordering Coorg, Showcases a wide variety of flora and fauna.

Chembra Peak, Neelimla View Point, Meenmutty Falls, Chethalayam Falls, Pakshipathalam, Banasura Sagar Dam, Sultan Bathery Jain Temple, Edakkal caves, Wayanad Heritage Museum, Pazhassi Raja's Tomb, Valliyoor Temple, SeethaLavaKausha Temple, Thrissilery Shiva Temple and Thirunelli Temple are the other main tourist attraction here.

The nearest airport and railhead is at Kozhikode. Regular bus services are available to Wayanad and the journey to this destination is an excited one.

Kozhikode

Kozhikode, the third largest city in Kerala, is of great historical importance. The main port and city in Malabar, Kozhikode became famous in the new era after Vasco da Gama, the first European to sail directly from Europe, landed at Kappad Beach. The temples and mosques with the unique architecture of the region are attractions.

The main tourism spots here are S.M Street, kallai, Kappad, Beypore, Thusharagiri, Kirtdas, Mananchira, Planetarium, Ghat Section, Kadalundi, Backwater, Kozhikode Beach, Thali Temple, Kunjali Marakkar's House, House of Othena, Kuttichira Mosque, V.K. Krishna Menon Museum, Thiruvannur Temple, Azhokodi Temple, Valayanadu Temple, Varakkal Temple, Bilathikulam Temple, Bhairagi Madam Temple, Lokanarkavu Temple, Thusharagiri Falls.

This district is famous for many things including the folk songs known as Vadakkan Pattukal, Mappilapattu and Oppana, Ghazals, Football craze, non-vegetarian cuisine and the special sweet called 'halwa'

This district is well connected by rail, road and air to the other parts of the country.

Malappuram

One of the major areas in tha Malabar, the beaches, backwaters, hills and valleys, ancient pilgrimage centres and other attractions of Malappuram district offers traveller a unique experience of culture and cuisine. It is considered to be the birth place of Malayalam literature and the centre of Ayurvedic treatments. Malappuram has a rich and eventful history. Along with historic monuments, natural attractions and a collection of ritual art forms makes this destinationis really worth visiting.

The place is also home to many festivals like Thirumandhamkunnu Pooram, Kottakkal Pooram, Nilambur Pattu, Kondotty Nercha, Puthanpalli Nercha, Omanur Nercha, Malappuram Perunnal. The main places of interests are Padinharekara Beach, Kadampuzha Temple, Angadipuram, Thirunavaya Temple on the banks of the Bharathapuzha, Trikandiyur Temple, Mumburam, Valiya Juma Masjid, Pazhayangadi Mosque, Kottakunnu, etc.

The nearest international airport is at Kozhikode 26km away. The railways and the roadways cover connect the district to the rest of the state.

Palakkad

Palakkad, the Granary of Kerala, is also the Gateway of Kerala as it connects the state to the rest of the country though one of the biggest mountain passes of the world on the Western Ghats. The land of paddy fields offers picturesque landscapes. The district with mountain, forests and fertile valleys support rich flora and fauna.

The main spots of tourist potential are Nelliyampathy Hill Station, Tippu's Fort, Malampuzha Gardens, Snake Park, Fantasy Park, Palakkad Fort, Chittur Gurumadam, Jain Temple of Jainmedu, Dhoni, Loknayak J.P Smrithi Vanam and Deer Park, Kanhirapuzha Dam, Mangalam Dam, Mayilladumpara, Cholanoor Peacock sanctury Pothundy Dam, Seetharkundu Water Falls, Meenkara Dam, Parambikuam Wild life Sanctuary, Chulliar Dam, Killikurissimangalam, Meenavallam, Siruvani, Silent Valley National Park and Attappady.

The nearest airport is located at coimbatore 52km from palghat. The railway junction at palakkad is one of the major railheads in the region. Palakkad is also well connected by road.

Guruvayur

 Guruvayur, a small town in Thrissur district, is one of the most important pilgrim centres of South India, attracting thousands of people every day from different parts of the country. Located 29km north-west of Thrissur, Guruvayur is famous for the temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, known here as Guruvayurappan or the Lord of Gurvayur.

The temple is many centuries old and a cultural centre where literature and art forms flourish. The Chembai Sangeethosavam, the Carnatic music festival held for 11 days, attracts music lovers from different parts of the world. One of the main attractions of Guruvayur is the Elephant Sancturay at Punnathur Kotta, a few kilometer away from the temple. More than 60 elephants offered by devotees named Guruvayur Kesavan, near the temple, is another attraction.

Quailty accommodation facilities are available here. Road transportation and railways offer services to the destination. The nearest airport is Nedumbassery International Airport, Kochin, 80km away.

Thrissur

Thrissur, the cultural capital of Kerala, is situated in Central Kerala and is one of the must see places for most tourists visiting kerala. Thrissur Pooram is the biggest highlight of this place. The most colorful temple festival of kerala celebrated in April-May attracts large masses of devotees and spectators from all parts of the country. Foreigners are also seen in large numbers to witness this grand event. It consists of processions of richly caparisoned elephants from various neighbouring temples to the Vadakumnathan Temple, Thrissur. The Pooram Festival is also well known for the magnificent display of fireworks. Fireworks start in the early hours and the dazzling display last three to four hours.


Anakkayam, Art museum, Athirapally and Vazhacal Waterfalls, Cheruthuruthy, Peechi Dam, Punnathur Kotta, Vadakkumnathan Temple and Zoo are the main tourist attractions.

Thrissur is wrll connected by road and rail. The nearest airport is the International Airport at Nedumbassery, Kochin.

Kochi

Kochi, the commercial capital of Kerala, is a vibrant city situated almost at the centre of Kerala. It is called the Gateway to Kerala as it was a famous port from the historical times with trade relations with many foreign countries. Today it is one of the world class seaports. Kochi is situated in Ernakulam district. Accomodation and other facilities of all models are available here.

It is home to India's oldest chruch, the St. Francis Church. Other tourist sights in Kochi include Bolghatty palace, Chinese fishing nets, Dutch palace, Pierce Leslie Bungalow, Santa Cruz Basilica, Hill Palace, Jew Town, Jewish Synagogue, Museum of Kerala History, Pallipuram Fort, Parikshit Thampuran Museum, Cherai Beach, Vasco Da Gama Square, VOC Gate and Bastion Bungalow.

It has two main railway stations, Ernakulam Junction and Ernakulam Town, connecting the place to all major regions in the country. The Nedumbassery International Airport is about 20 km from the city centre.

Kumarakom

Kumarakom, the backwater paradise and an upcoming destination on the world tourism map,  gives the tourist an out of the world experience in a rural backdrop. The village of kumarakom is a cluster of little islands on the Vembanad Lake.  Being a part of the Kuttanad region, Kumarakom offers spectacular views. The destination with unending paddy fields is called the Rice bowl of Kerala. The main highlight of this post on the shores of the vast and enchanting Vembanad Lake is the bird sanctuary spread over 14 acres. Taking a boat trip round the islands is the best way to watch the birds here.

The country cuisine rich with sea and backwater fishes especially the ‘Pearl Spot’ is just irrestible along with the toddy or the coconut beer.  This backwater destination offers its visitors many other options like sight seeing, boating, fishing part from the houseboat stays. It is located 14km away from kottayam and easily accessible by road and rail.

Munnar

Munnar, a tea town with unending tea plantations spread over miles of the lofty Western Ghats, is one of the most popular hill stations in Kerala. Munnar was brought to public attention after the British givernment made it their summer resort. Munnar offers the traveller a variety of options like boating,  riding, trekking, angling, paragliding, and many more. The abundant variety of flora and fauna in and around this destination is fascinating. The picturesque hillocks, valleys, ravines, misty peaks, the serene atmosphere and ambience and the excellent climate make Munnar different from other hill stations.

Different varieties of vegetables and spices including cardamom, vanilla, pepper, cinnamon, clove and nutmeg are cultivated in and around Munnar. All of these given a special ambience to this wonderland and a visit here makes one feel like coming back again.

Vagamon

Vagamon, an upcoming hill station with vast meadows and forests, is attracting lot of travellers and tourists with its scenic beauty and cool climate. Situated 3,500ft.. above sea level among the rich green vegetation off the Western Ghats, this tourist spot is 60km away from kottayam and 80km from cochin.

The Ministry of Tourism, Governament of india, has identified Vagamon as the best eco-tourist destination in india. The hill slopes of vagamon are turning out to be a favourite spot for trekkers. Many trekking routers are already being identified. The hill station offers other activities apart from trekking, like paragliding, mountaineering and rock climbing, etc.

Located on the idukki-kottayam border, vagamon is considered as a base camp for tourists to explore locations like Thekkady, Kurisumala, Thangalpara, Muruganmala and Kulamavu. Accomodation and other facitilites have been adequatley improved here after this place at tracted the attention of the international travel community.