Visiting the Exceptional Dharmadam Island of Kerala as a Romantic Getaway from Kannur

They are neither the Cannon beach of Oregon, the US nor the Pfeiffer Beach of California. But a small beach in the outskirts of Kannur, in Dharmadam. Around 100 meters across them, is situated an adorable islet known as Dharmadam Island or Dharmadam Thuruth regionally or at times Pachathuruth. If you had enough of the lovely days spent in either the Wayanad Hills or Alappuzha backwater situated to the south of Kerala, sojourn and explore the beautiful beaches located to its northern parts. You may pull over your vehicle while traversing via National Highway 66 at Dharmadam and proceed toward the beach.

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Because of the peaceful waves in the flat-surfaced shore, the serene environment of Dharmadam could tempt any romantic newlyweds to detour and head to them and spend their beautiful moments together at its splendid shores and would also make them curious about the wonder island beyond the shallow sea waters. Here, you will be witnessing a spectacular sight of the golden beach with a few occasional reddish-brown rocks erected on them. All of these are lashed over by very small waves, and most astonishingly thing of this entire beach is an islet just a few distances away, called Pachathuruth among the locals. If you are lucky enough to arrive at the shores during low tide, you could walk across the remaining shallow sea waters up to the island, situated 100 meters away from the beach. We would bet you that would be one of the best experiences of an entire honeymoon trip, which you will be enduring along with your partner. Otherwise, you may hire a country boat and sail up to them.

On reaching the charming golden shores lined up with numerous coconut palms, you both will be mesmerized by it arresting rustic beauty. They would seem to be untouched by the human presence by its very first sight, especially by its crystal clear waters that are rarely seen in the beaches of Kerala. But, you are wrong to be prejudging so, as it has been dwelled until 1998 by a sole family. Later, the bountiful land was taken over by the Tourism department of the Kerala government. Nevertheless, when you precede to interiors across the forestry paths, you could get to see a few dilapidated structures of the ancient house where they inhabited for so many years. Moreover, by venturing out to this Dharmadam Island spread over a 6 acres o land, you are also getting a boon to hike across those densely forested regions, and that too with your life partner.

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On hiking further, you would notice an abandoned well that might have been used by the family resided there years ago. However, the surprising part of the ancient bore that lies here. Even though they are in proximity to the sea that obviously holds its salty waters, the water fetched from the well is stunningly clear and pure. Now forget the well, as you are going to be more bewildered by a unique sort of medicinal plants that can be spotted here. To behold at the wonders, you both may get the help of any locals residing nearby and get them chopped. Within no time, some liquid with medicinal properties would be seen oozing out from them. Well, the interesting thing is that sometimes the plant would produce up to 2 glasses of water even during peak summers!!

If you have got interested in this new pursuit, you may resume your hiking in the uninhabited Dharmadam Island. Your effort would be worthy of it, as you will be spotting to find yet another unique tree called Nanjju. Some of the local fisher folks would use their seeds to make the fishes unconscious for a while. So they could now catch them easily. Meanwhile, just like every nuance of this universe the diverse trees growing in the islet too has got its boons and banes. The green covers also pose some poisonous trees. So, due care must be taken while strolling amid those bushy shrubs and tall trees. So, men, do protect your lady when pursuing them, as it is based on this very first trip done together that will be she will be realizing that how much you do concern for her.

When returning to the beaches on the mainland, you will feel more enlightened towards the dusk. Just like any seashores of Kerala, the beach adjacent to Dharmadam Island would attain its bewitching beauty during the twilight. While witnessing the crimson red sun crossing the horizon, a romantic mood will be created in both of you. The large rocks and the peacefully lashing small waves discern a picturesque sight, other than a mesmerizing sunset. Even after that, you may relax over the sands by talking endlessly and counting those beautiful waves. Therefore, in every aspect, Dharamadam Island deserves to be included in your budget honeymoon packages, without any second thoughts.

How to Reach There

The destination is situated on the Dharmadam-Thalassery route(NH 66), so once arriving at Dharmadam them you may take the beach road for around 850m. Although the nearest railway station is barely 1 km away, the most accessible Kannur Railway station is at a distance of 18 km from the beach. Also, from Kannur International Airport, it would take 45 minutes to arrive at the beach, covering around 27 km.

Nearby Tourist Attractions

Muzhappilangad drive-in beach: 4.8 km

Thalassery Fort: 6.2 km

Thalassery Sea Bridge viewpoint: 6.8 km

Thottada beach: 14.6km

Mahe river walkway: 15 km

Just like the unexplored beaches of North Kerala such as the Dharmadam beach, there are numerous hilly tourist destinations toward the north-eastern parts of Kannur that are ideal for your romantic getaways with your significant other. Feel the cool misty fogs hitting on your faces while honeymooning high up these rarely visited verdant hills. For which, you may travel with Dream Holidays to make your honeymoon days eventful and memorable to remember throughout your lives. They arrange exciting trips to any popular or unexplored travel destinations of Kerala on your honeymoon days, which is absolute of your choices and indulge in thrilling activities if you wish so. Book your tour packages today and avail all those limited offers. Also, Happy honeymooning!!

Top 6 Ecclesiastic Temples in God’s Own Country

Kerala being the most-sought tourist destination in India is famous for several alluring factors. Exceptionally beautiful landscapes, wild roars of animals and the melodious chirp of birds from thickly populated forest lands, tranquillizing river waters, breathtaking hill stations, marvellous tea and coffee meadows sprawling misty hill stations and valleys are the few among them. Above all these, the unique and praiseworthy heritage and traditions attract travellers across the globe. Kerala, the god’s own country is popular for its ancient culture and bewitching art forms. Not only foreigners but also local especially people from north Indian cities like Delhi organizes a tour to witness the traditional lifestyles of Kerala. It is said that whatever may be the event each and everything comprises some sorts of music and art. And that is absolutely true. By availing the package travellers can see that people in Kerala show their uniqueness in each and everything. Where people on one side spend a huge amount of money on purchasing plates and glasses Keralites will save the money using the leaves of banana as plates and leaves of jackfruit tree as spoons instead. Another amusing factor of Kerala is the temples. The state is blessed with a large number of temples with different deities in it and the architectural style of the temples makes the travellers speechless. Below is a shortlist of temples with unique design patterns and festivals.

  1.  Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple

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The temple Sree Padmanabahswamy is not only famous for its exemplary Dravidian architectural style but also being one of the richest temples in India. The temple is devoted to Lord Vishnu who resides on the Anantha- the five hooded serpent lord. The temple is situated in the heart of the Thiruvananthapuram district, the capital of Kerala. It was constructed in the 8th century. The presence of the temple is clearly mentioned in Hindu scriptures such as Padma Purana and Skanda Purana. The idol deity – lord Vishnu comprises of 12008 sacred pebbles (Salgramas) from River Gandaki in Nepal. Each sacred pebble represents Lord Vishnu, sanctity, etc. Travellers can also see separate shrines in the flourished temple for Lord Rama, Lord Sita, and Lord Laxmana, Lord Hanuman, Shri Yoga Narasimha, and Shri Dharma Shastha.

When to visit: October and November- Alpashy festival

                               March and April – Panguni festival

2. Sree Krishan Temple, Guruvayoor

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Sree Krishan Temple is more famously known as the Guruvayoor temple in and out of Kerala. The deity of the temple is four-armed Lord Krishna carrying lotus with holy basil grassland, the mace of Kaumodaki, Panchajanya and Sudharshans discuss in each of the four hands. The idol of the lord has been made out of Patalanjana stones ( mainly used for medicinal values). The temple is well-known for marriages and rice –feeding functions ( it is custom prevailing in Kerala of feeding rice to newborn babies). Guruvayoor is termed as Dwarka of South India. Surrounding to the temple is a tank and it is believed that Lord Krishna and family worshipped Lord Vishnu. Now this pond is considered sacred.

When to visit: February and March- Ulsavam

                               Middle of April – Malayalee new year

                                December and January – Kuchela’s day

3. Ambalapuzha Sri Krishna Temple

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Ambalapuzha Sri Krishna Temple was constructed in the 17th century in Ambalapuzha. It is one of the famous temples in the state. The deity of the temple is Lord Krishna ( the childhood version of Krishna more commonly known as ‘Unni Kannan’). There is a myth associated with the temple it is said so that Guruvayoorappan (Lord Krishna from Guruvayoor temple) visits Ambalapuzha while serving the delicious Palpayyasam. People who visit the pilgrim will definitely visit the backwaters which are hardly 8 miles apart. It is also believed that the deity of the temple as bought from the Guruvayoor temple during Tipu Sultan’s administration.

When to visit: July – Ambalapuzha temple festival

                                 March – April – Arattu festival

4. Chaottanikara Temple

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Chottanikara temple is situated in Ernakulam district. Positioned in the hilltop it is one of the most popular temples in Kerala. The deity of the temple is Chottanikara Devi. It is worshipped in three different ways. In the morning it is devoted as lord Saraswati, at the noon as lord Laxmi and in the evening as lord Durga. Along with Chottanikara Devi, Lord Vishnu is also worshipped. It is believed that Devi has curing powers and removes all mental illnesses.

When to visit: October – Navarathri Aghosham

                             Vrishichika Mandala Mahotsavam and the annual festival of the temple.

5.  Aattukkal Bhagavathy Temple

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Located at a distance of 2 km from the famous Padmanabha Swamy temple, Aattukakal Bhagavathy temple is situated in Thiruvananthapuram. The deity of the temple is goddess Kannaki or incarnation of goddess Parvati, believed as a supreme mother, the creator of the whole universe, etc. The temple holds the record of the largest gathering of women for temple festivals. Devotees who visit the Padmanabha Swamy temple will surely visit the Aattukkal temple also.

When to visit: February- March- Aattukal Pongal

6. Sabarimala Temple

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Sabarimala temple is not only famous in Kerala but among all the Ayyappa devotees in the country. Located in Pathanamthitta district in Kerala the presiding deity of the temple is Lord Ayyappa. Closely situated to Periyar tiger reserve the temple is surrounded by rocky hills and thickly populated forest areas. The temple mainly remains open during two major festivals ie. Mandala Pooja and Makara Sankranti Pooja celebrated during the months from November to mid of January. The temple also opens during the first 6 days of every Malayalam month. Men of all ages visit the temple by wearing either black or blue dresses with chandanam (sandal) smeared on their foreheads. Till the end of the pilgrim, the devotees remain unshaven.

Key point: Females during the menstruating period are exempted from entering the temple.

 The above are the most prominent temples in Kerala which not only pull the Hindus from the state but also from various parts of the world. The temples in Kerala are not only worship centres but also a place to study ancient architecture styles and the colonial ruling system prevailed in India. So don’t waste your precious time couples enjoy the tour with Dream Holidays at affordable package rates. They are one among the few travel partners who are ready to customise their price. So pack your bags and prepare yourself to seek the blessings from ‘God’s own country’.

TOP 4 BEAUTIFUL CULTURAL DANCE FORMS OF KERALA

Kerala is blessed with various kinds of resources. The state boasts of its pristine beaches, tranquil waters, traditional ‘kettuvalloms’ or houseboats which float in the lakes, distinct species of flora and fauna, pleasant climatic conditions and etc. There are also Ayurveda centres for refreshing mind and soul. Every year lakhs of people visit the state to enchant its mesmerising beauty and to be part of it. Kerala always has something new to treat its visitors. People irrespective of their age and sex enjoy every inch of the beautiful nature. Apart from the beautiful environment, there are many more to see. Like the modern industrial developments, universities, educational institutions, hospitals and research centres. To understand more about the culture and traditions of a state or country either people have to visit museums or study various art forms both ritual and cultural. Kerala also has unique art forms. The state has given birth to many eminent talented artists to the world. An art institution named Kerala Kalamandalam is home to various art forms. Malayalees and Non-Malayalees across different parts of the world take admission in the institution to learn deeply about various dance forms. Kerala Kalamandalam is located on the banks river Bharathapuzha in Cheruthuruthy in Thrissur. Famous Malayalam poet Vallathol Narayana Menon along with Mukunda Raja took the initiative to form Kerala Kalamandalam.

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Travellers who are planning to visit the state must definitely find some time to enjoy the beauty of cultural art forms which are popular not only within the country but also in foreign nations. Some dance forms are practised only during festival seasons like Theyyam, Arjuna Nritham, Mudiyettu etc. Some others perform dances on a competition basis or merely for entertainment like Thiruvathirakali, Kathakali, Mohiniyattom etc. People who are availing the Cheapest Kerala package from Dream Kerala tour partners will get an opportunity to view the dance forms directly. Dance is an art form which helps the beings to express their sorrows, joy and fury. A dancer’s performance will be successful only when his or her soul and body unite to give mind-blowing steps. Each dance is based on some mythological stories or epics. There will at least 2 singers to narrate these stories in musical form. Here, is the list of few popular cultural art forms of Kerala.

  1. Kathakali

Kerala Kathakali

Kathakali is one of the popular classical dances of Kerala. Kathakali can be split into two words ‘Katha’ means ‘story’ and ‘Kali’ means ‘play’. In short, Kathakali means ‘story play’. It is also known as an ’eye dance’. Kathakali always emphasises on gestures of hands, legs and palms and also eye movements. The dance performance was performed only by males and they used to enact the role of female characters. But now, females also started to participate in the dance. Usually, the theme of Kathakali used to be the mythological stories from Hindu religious book like The Mahabharata, The Ramayana. Present generations have started to take stories from English plays like from Shakespeare’s collections. These stories are narrated to the public by 2 or 3 singers. It is done so as to inculcate the western with Indian. In olden days, Kathakali performances prolonged till 3 days now it has been cut short to 5 hours. The performers appear on the stage with exotic make-up, colourful costumes which include swirled skirt. They also wear heavy ornaments and headgears. It takes long hours to dress up for the programme. People who are able to understand the gestures and facial expressions can really enjoy the classical dance. In olden days, Kathakali was practised in royal palaces, where Kings and others enjoyed the dance and in return rewarded the artists with excellent gifts. Later Kathakali was moved to temples so those common people irrespective of their creed and caste can enjoy the art. Now, the art form can be seen in various stages. The main musical instrument used for the dance is a drum known as ‘Chenda’. It takes 12 years for an artist to learn Kathakali completely. It is the main art form taught in the Kerala Kalamandalam. It is believed that Kathakali was originated from Kalaripayattu, Krishanattom and Kuttiyattom.

      2.  Mohiniyattom

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Mohiniyattom is one of the eight classical dances of India mentioned by Sangeet Nataka Academy. It also the second popular dance of Kerala. It is believed that the dance was originated in the 16th century and has flourished in the 19th century by the King of Travancore Swathi Thirunal. The origin of Mohiniyattom was mentioned in the chapter ‘Vyavaharamala’ from the book ‘Ghoshayatra’ written by ‘Mazhamagalam Namrayanan Namputhiri’. It was later rewritten by the great poet ‘Kunjan Nambiar’.  The word ‘ Mohiniyattom’ when splitting into two exactly tells what the dance means. Mohini means ‘maiden ’or devotee of Lord Vishnu and Attam means ‘seductive and graceful body movements’. Initially, this dance was performed only in palaces and temples and now it has been moved to different stages. There is a myth revolving around the dance that Lord Vishnu disguised himself as ‘Mohini’ to defeat the demons and to rescue lord Shiva. The delicate movements of the body and charming facial expressions are more suitable to females and therefore the dance is performed only by women. The song used for Mohiniyattom is written ‘Manipravalam’. It is a combination of Sanskrit and Malayalam. Mohiniyattom was performed by females called ‘Devadasis’.

Interesting Facts:

  •  The makeup for the Mohiniyattom is little exotic yet elegant. It involves red lips and dark kohled eyes.
  •  The language used for the dance performances is Manipravalam, is the fusion of Sanskrit and Malayalam.
  • The performer uses only gold ornaments since it is a symbol of beauty and prosperity.
  •  Only Jasmine flowers are used to adorn the hair.
  •  Initially, it was performed only in temples as a tribute to God especially Lord Vishnu.
  • The main attire for the dance is Kerala Kasavu saree.

     3. Thiruvathirakali

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Thiruvathirakali is one of the popular cultural dances of Kerala. Thiruvathirakali is also known as ‘Kaikottukali’. The cultural dance is mainly performed in the month of Dhanu in Malayalam almanac. Or it can also be said that it is practised in the month of December and January. In ancient days, the dance was performed during the Thiruvathira festival in order to please Lord Shiva to seek his blessings. There is a myth revolving around the dance that this dance bought Kamadeva, the God of love back to life after he was burnt into ashes by Lord Shiva. Therefore the dance is performed mainly by women irrespective of their ages to gain marital happiness and female energy. For the dance, women wear typical Kerala sari, which is white in colour with a golden border. Or two-piece is known as ‘mundu’ and ‘neriyathu’. Mundu is attire which is worn around the waist. Neriyathu is worn over the blouse along with it they wear golden ornaments. They adorn their hair with jasmine flowers. This ancient dance form mainly survives through school competitions and college youth festivals. Some people say that dance form was been in practice during the Sangham period.

The dance consists of 8-10 members arranged in a circular manner around a lit lamp known as ‘vilaku’ or floral carpet. They move in both clockwise and anti-clockwise directions. Moreover the hand movements it is the body movements which make the dance more graceful. It is also believed that the dance has been originated from Kathakali. The song sung for Thiruvathira dance is mainly based on some mythology or some folk tales. Sometimes devotional songs are also sung. During Onam, the song would be mainly related to King Mahabali. The leader of the team will sing the first two lines of the song and other members repeat it as a chorus.

In ancient days, only on Thiruvathira, women were allowed to mingle with others without any fear of social restrictions. As part of the festival, women were allowed to go out to village ponds or temple ponds for bath and other rituals. The group was one of the best ways to keep the females engaged as they have to stay awake for the whole night.

Various forms of Thiruvathirakali:

As aforementioned Thiruvathira is famous among Malayalees and it is practised in different ways in southern and northern regions of Kerala. The southern region of Kerala has various forms of Thiruvathira dance.

  • Kolaattam – Women hold small sticks in their hands and used them to strike against each other.
  • Thaalam Vechattam – Females carried small plates made up of brass in their hands. These plates are known as ‘Thallam’ in Malayalam.
  • Kudam Vechattam – Dancers carry small pot in their hands known as ‘Kudam’ in Malayalam.
  • Pinnalaattam – It is performed under temporary sheds or under trees. In this type of dance form, strings are tied from the poles of the sheds or from the branches.

     4. MargamKali

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Margamkali is one of the famous dances among St.Thomas Christians in Kerala.  Markamkali can be split into two words, Markam means ‘path’ and Kali means ‘dance’. The dance consists of 12 members which denote 12 apostles of Jesus Christ. In ancient days, the dance was performed by men by wearing peacock feathers in their heads and a red dhoti. Also a red silk cloth around the hip. They stand in a circular arrangement with a traditional lamp at the centre. Now, this dance is mainly practised by females by wearing ‘Mundu’ and ‘Chatta’. They wear bangles on hands and ankles. The song for Markam kali comprises of miracles of St.Thomas and it either was sung by the singer or by the dancers. Kallisserry Itti Thoman Kathanar wrote these songs in the 17th century. It has a small resemblance of ‘Yathrakali pattu’ of Namboothiris. The song is written in 4000 lines in different sections. The dance is performed on special occasions like church feasts or wedding ceremonies. But now it is been practised in various stages of schools and colleges.

Travellers will be thrilled after reading the information on various dance forms are seen in Kerala and would be planning to avail the tour packages. As a seasonal offer, Dream travel operators have decided to give reasonable discounts for the first 10 travellers. The packages are available at affordable price. Including the travel expenses the package range up to Rs.35000/- for a family consisting of 4 members including 2 children. Additional each person will have to pay Rs.10000/-. Try to grab the package as soon as possible and avail their discount offers.

While planning a trip to Kerala don’t forget to pack the bag with a high-resolution camera with good storage memory cards. Also, don’t forget to take a notebook and pen to note down some important information given by famous artists regarding their dances. This book can also be used to take an autograph from the eminent artists. If they allow, travellers can take their costumes and other accessories as part of souvenirs. If travellers are interested to take an interview with the famous dancers must discuss with the tour operators beforehand. In some cases, people will be forced to sit late night to watch some special performances. So travellers must be ready for the same. Dream holidays ensure travellers safety by providing the safe and best accommodation in reputed hotels and resorts. On special request from the travellers, the tour operator is ready to provide cab facility for their personal needs.