January 2019 - Best Destinations in the World

Into Nature, we go to Let Loose the Spirit in Search of the Beauty in Nature

January 30, 2019 admin Leave a comment

andaman nicobar_tour_ packages

Being an MBA student I rarely get chance to travel and explore the travel destinations in and around the country, but this time my idea was to take a one week leave from college so that I could enjoy some time in any peaceful and adventurous destination far from the stress of the exams, studies and college. But the travelling alone to some-place far was not that a good idea so I asked 2 of my friends to join. As we are from Chennai, the 3 of us were looking forward to travelling to someplace with a climate that is blessed, a place with water, adventures, hills, forests and more. We were looking to explore something unique and different. At our home town, Chennai, that entire one could see was buildings, houses and constructions, as we were looking something different we were in hunt of a destination that has the least amount of constructions and rich and more of greenery and nature. It was after debating for about 2 whole days that we finally came to a conclusion. With equal votes, we decided to trip to Andaman exploring the waters and the marine world. filled with pristine beach destinations, water adventures, nature, marine attractions, history, and more, the Andaman and Nicobar and was an ideal destination for the travellers like us from Chennai, where they could travel to so as to escape from the rush and stress of the city lives. Andaman was a completely new destination for us and none of knowing anything about the place, thus travelling alone to an unknown island destination was a real risk which none of us was ready to take up. Like all the other first time travellers the first option that crossed our mind was to plan the trip with the help of a travel operator. Now picking up one that travel partner from a lot of travel operators that offers and looks exactly the same was one hard thing. Here we were looking for a travel operator who would offer us an Andaman tour package from Chennai at a cheap and affordable rate by including all that activities and attractions we like to visit. Finally, after searching for 2 to 3 hours we locked our options on Andaman tour travel, which was a travel operator functioning in the land.

January was supposed to be the peak season for tourism in Andaman and we were planning to explore the destination by the end of the month when the rush to the place has slowed down a bit. We started our trip from Chennai on the 27th of January, as the air tickets were not included in the travel package we choose, we were all on our own until we reach the capital city, Port Blair where we met with the travel representative. As per the itinerary organised we were to explore three main island destinations in Andaman and indulge in some of the best water activities the place offers to the travellers visiting. The one thing that excited us the most in Andaman was the beauty of the beaches with crystal clear waters and white sands. Back at Chennai you never get to see the beaches this clear, or the water so cold and clear. Being at the capital city Port Blair the first destination we were to explore was the capital city, after which we were to explore the Havelock Island. Given below are the description of the places and some of the best things that we enjoyed while at these island destinations.

cellular jail

Port Blair, the Capital City

A light escape exploring the waters and the beaches into nature is one thing that most of the travellers wish for. The capital city of Port Blair is an ideal destination for the travellers from Chennai who wish to indulge in nature by letting loose of oneself in the laps of nature. The place offers the travellers and the tourists visiting with a number of adventure options and sightseeing destinations which hold in the rich history of the place. Port Blair, at Andaman and Nicobar Island, according to me is one of the best and most sought after travel spots in the land that grabs the attention of the travellers with its charm. Being the capital city of the union territory, this fascinating island destination serves the travellers with the best of the phases of Andaman and Nicobar islands. Given below are some of the best destinations in Port Blair that we loved exploring the most.

The Cellular Jail

The cellular jail at Port Blair is one destination that any domestic traveller visiting the island should never miss exploring. Being the travellers from Chennai the place was one of the most fascinating and emotionally connecting destinations for me. The place will remind you of the trials and the nightmares and traumas that most of the Indian freedom fighters had to face during the British rule. The cellular jail was a place that was built by the Britishers with an aim to capture the political prisoners and to punish them in the most inhuman ways. There are a number of things that the travellers, especially the domestic tourist from Chennai and such state visiting the place could enjoy.

Things to do:

Light and sound show
Explore the architectural magnificence of the place
Get a perfect view of the Port Blair lighthouse

The Japanese Bunkers

Even though Chennai had a number of historic destinations I was never fantasized by one, but here the Japanese bunkers did grab my attention to a greater extent. The place did offer a small peek into the era of the World War 2. Located near the Corbyn’s cove these bunkers showed the importance of protection during the times of the war. Along with a visit to the bunkers, the travellers can also make themselves involved in a number of other things.

Things to do:

Explore the rose island
Visit the lighthouse at Port Blair

The Chatham Saw Mill

Set up in the year 1883 by the Britishers, the Chatham Saw Mill is not just a historical destination but is also a place that offers an employment option to a number of people in the area. The place in addition also holds in a museum which exhibits the history of the place. The museum, in addition, holds in a bomb crater that was left behind by the Japanese during the time of the wars.

Things to do:

Forest museum trip
Tour of the factory
Relax at the cafes
Shopping

andaman tour_package

Havelock Island, a Prised Beach Destination

As we are all travellers from a city like Chennai, it was the beach destinations and the different adventures that were offered at the place that fascinated us the most and the Havelock Island was referred to as the beach paradise and the moist explored beach destination in the Andaman cluster of islands. Filled with white sand shorelines and corals the place is a price beach destination that offers the travellers with the best option for adventures. After our first-day tour of the capital city, we moved into the 2nd destination to enjoy and explore the underwater lives in the place. Listed below are some of the main destinations we explored at Havelock Island and the things that we enjoyed at the place.

Radhanagar Beach

Famed as the best beach destination in Asia, the Radha Nagar beach is one of the most explored beach destinations in the Andaman cluster of islands. Unlike the beach destinations in Chennai, the Radhanagar beach had clear and clean shore with crystal clear water the facility and offers you with the best view of the coral reefs. The place offers the travellers with a number of best water adventures given below are the best of water adventures we enjoyed at the place.

Things to do:

Enjoy snorkelling
Relax at the shack
Enjoy the view of the sunset explore the blue lagoons at the beach destination

Elephant Beach

Known for the magnificent coral view that the place offers, the elephant beach is one famous beach destination in Andaman and Nicobar islands. The place holds in a number of best diving and snorkelling centres that offers the travellers with the best opportunity to explore and enjoy the best view of the marine world. The place offers the best of adventures from the adrenaline junkies like travelling from places like Chennai and such cities.

Things to do:

Diving
Snorkeling
Kayaking
Jet Skiing
Glass Bottom Boat Rides

Kalapathar Beach

Located a bit too far from the main town, the Kalapathar Beach is one must explore destination by the travellers visiting the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. As its name suggest this fascinating beach destination is home to black colored rocks that are lined in the coastal line of the beach destination. Being an isolated travel destination far from the main city the place is an ideal destination for couples and honeymoon travellers, in addition, a number of best tour packages are also being organised to this fascinating black rock beach destination of Andaman and Nicobar islands. Apart from just exploring the beauty of the place, there are a number of other best things travellers love to do at Kalapathar Beach.

Things to do:

Picnic at the Beach
Explore the Pace
Enjoy Eating from the Shacks

The trip to Andaman was the best most memorable in our whole life, the beaches, the waters, the marine world all offered us with the best memories of a lifetime that we wrapped back home as we traveled back to Chennai.

The Beach Destinations of Kerala, an Escaper’s Paradise with Pristine Beauty

January 17, 2019January 17, 2019 admin Leave a comment

kerala beach

When it comes to enjoying a trip exploring the best travel destination to the south at cheaper rates it is always the best to look into the nature-friendly travel destinations. One of the main reasons for this is the availability of cheaper tour packages to the best nature destinations to the south as in at Kerala. Located to the southernmost tip Kerala is one of the most fascinating and charming travel destinations in India that is filled with the beauty and the richness of nature and greenery. It is mainly due to the popularity of the state as a fascinating destination filled with beaches that attracted me the most and thus planned my holiday trip to Kerala with Dream Holidays, a travel operator functioning in the land. The travel packages that they offered were both cheap and well planned or organised but as the travel package that I choose don’t include the travel expenses or the flight ticket from my home town to Kerala, I was all on my own while flying to the Kochi international airport. After a bit tiring long flight, I met the travel representative at the airport who briefed me with my travel plans and the destinations to explore for the day. It was just an escape trip to explore the beach and to enjoy the silence in the area so that I could get some alone time with myself. Plus exploring the beach destinations in Kerala at cheaper rates was an actual fun for nature lovers and solo travelers like me. After reaching the airport and meeting the travel representatives, my first preference was to check-in at the hotel, refresh and then take rest so after reaching the airport I checked- in at the hotel and took a small nap and woke up at 4 at the evening. As my first day organised was just meant for refreshing and relaxing I didn’t have much of a plan for the day but by evening I moved out of the hotel to take a walk around the place. I went walking through the marine drive just visited the Mangalavanam bird sanctuary enjoyed the view at the place and the magnificent sunset at the drive. One thing that I actually noticed while exploring the place was that most of the destinations in the area don’t even charge an entry fee or the entry charge is very cheap and affordable. It is mainly due to this reason that most nature-friendly travel packages organised to Kerala at affordable and cheap. The next day I started with my tour of the place and listed below are some of the best beach destinations in the land that I explored at cheap and affordable rates.

Cherai Beach, Kochi

cherai beach

Located a bit too far from the Ernakulam town, which is the place where I stayed the day before, the Cherai beach is one fascinating beach detonation in Kerala. As the placed is least explored by the travelers and tourist the travel rates to the place was cheap and in addition, the accommodation that the place offers are also at pocket-friendly and affordable rates. Located close to the Vypin side this beautiful beach destination on short could be referred to as the swimmer’s paradise. The beach is one of the best spots for travelers and water lovers like me who are in search of a swimming detonation with the backdrop of coconut groves. The Cherai beach, in addition, is also known to offer the best views of the well known Chinese Fishing Nets or Cheena Vala as said by the locals. The place holds in a number of shacks that offers you with the best cuisine that fills you with the best taste and flavors of the land.

This fascinating beach destination also holds in a number of other attractions like the hells found in the area and the availability of dolphins in the waters of the beach. The Cherai beach is a blend of both backwaters and the sea water making it one unique destination to the south. Accommodation around the area is one easy thing as the place houses in a number of best resorts offering accommodation at cheap and affordable rates.

Getting there:

Nearest railway station: Ernakulam Junction railway stations is the nearest and is about one km from the main boat jetty

Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport which is about 20 km

Chavakkad, Beach

Chavakkad

Thrissur, mostly referred to as the educational hub is not just the land of educational institutions but is also a place that holds in the best beaches in Kerala. The Chavakkad beach located at the Thrissur district is one of the well-known beach destinations in the place that is known for the Azhimugam, the confluence of both river and sea. Most of the travelers including me visited the place just to witness these fascinating phenomena of nature. This fascinating beach is one of the clean beaches in Kerala and this is the best spot where the travelers could swim and relax. Even after being a well-explored travel spot the tour price and the rate are cheap and affordable to the place. Apart from the Arumugam, this beach destination holds in a number of other attractions that the travelers could explore at cheap and affordable rates. The lighthouse, the Ramachapadam, which is very vast farmland of the Ayurvedic herb named Ramacham, the fish market are all some of the best destinations and attractions at the Chavakkad, beach which makes it one of the best tourist spots in Thrissur.

Getting there:

Nearest railway station: Guruvayoor railway station is the closes and is about 5 km. The Thrissur railway station can also be an option that is at a distance of about 29 km

Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport at about 79 km

Kappil Beach, Kasargod

Kappilbeach-1

One of the best parts of the beach trip to Kerala is that you get to feel your own heart beating as the place coffers with such serenity and beauty of nature. Kappil Beach located at Kasargod is on charming beach destination in Kerala that I suggest all the beach lovers should visit. Being a destination that is known for its seclusion, the spot is one best destination where the travelers who are in search of peacefulness could trip to. Filled with pristine sands and coconut plantation this drive-in beach is one best where the travelers could have some alone in nature. In addition, Kappil Beach is one of the cleanest beaches in Kerala and a perfect spot for travelers like me who seek solitude. The beach holds in a number of hops and resorts nearby that offers the best cheapest accommodation, thus making the place as one of the cheapest drive-in beach destinations in Kerala.

Getting there:

Nearest railway station: Kasargod railway station located about 14 km

Nearest airport: Mangalore airport which is about 50 km from Kasargod town; Calicut International Airport which is at about 200 km from Kasargod town

Kollam Beach

Kollam-beach (1)

Kollam is mostly seen as an offbeat travel destination or a stopover destination in most of the backwater and beach tours organised to Kerala. The Kollam beach is one of the most explored travel destinations in the land but being an off-beat spot the travel rates and the accommodation charges at the place is very less and cheap. This beach designation offers the travelers with an array of beach activities that attract the attention of a number of travelers from around the world annually. This fascinatingly beautiful beach destination offers the travelers with the most enchanting view of the Arabian Sea. Apart from the beaches, the place holds in a number of other attractions which includes the collection of Chinese fishing nets, Chinese water pots, sampan-like boats and even more. A joy ride exploring the waters would be one thing that the travelers would love in the place.

Getting there:

Nearest railway station: Kollam Junction Railway Station which is about 4 km

Nearest airport: Trivandrum International Airport which is about 68 km

Chowara & Azhimalathara Beach

chowara beach

A very beautifully charming and pristine beach in Thiruvananthapuram, the Chowara & Azhimalathara Beach is well known among the travellers for its isolated location and the availability of fishing spots that attract the attention of the travelers on a regular basis. The Chowara Ayyappa Temple that is located close by is one of the best attractions of the place and offers the travelers with the best and most fascinating view of the Chowara beach form the hilltop. The Azhimalathara Beach is located close to the Chowara beach and is said that the sea water recedes from the coast during the Monsoon.

Getting there:

Nearest railway station: Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway which is about 20 km.

Nearest airport: Trivandrum International Airport which is about 24 km.

The tour package price to almost all of the beach destinations in Kerala is cheap as compared to the travel rates to the hill stations of the land. Offering the travellers with the best of attractions and solitude, most of the best beach destinations in Kerala could be taken as the escape spots for the travellers from around the world that they could explore at cheaper rates.

My Rejuvenating Ayurvedic Experience in the Misty Hills of Kerala

January 16, 2019 admin Leave a comment

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It was mainly through the yoga class, friendly chats and online search that I came to know of the Ayurvedic treatments and herbal packages offered in Keralaand their magical results. As I was already planning to travel to India, in thought this could be the right time for me to visit Kerala to enjoy the magical rejuvenating touch of Ayurveda in the land. According to internet surveys, thousands of foreign travellers visit Kerala just to enjoy the Ayurvedic tradition of the land. To the south, Kerala is the land with an Ayurvedic tradition which dates back to the 5000 years and is mostly referred to as the herbal hub in the country. After collecting enough information regarding Ayurveda and Ayurvedic treatments offered in Kerala, I booked myself in for a herbal treatment therapy of Panchakarma treatments at Aura Spa, an Ayurvedic treatment centres to the western ghats of Kerala which was to last for 2 weeks. My main aim in booking myself into the herbal treatment was to detox myself, to relax and to sort out my digestive issues. In literal words, I was in very bad shape as I reached the treatment centre. After taking a 5 am a flight from Delhi to the Cochin international airport and after getting the news of a 3 hr travel to reach to the Ayurvedic destination, I was so in the mood to abort the whole mission, but then a step taken for the good is to be kept forward.

On my arrival at the Ayurvedic centre, I met a number of other guests. Some of them were at the place for short-term herbal treatment whereas some of them were there for long-term herbal treatment which would last to a month or more and aim to heal serious ailments. the very first girl with whom I talked at the Ayurvedic centre who was staying at the Ayurvedic treatment centre for a month had already gone through a set of herbal treatment which includes 3 weeks of Panchakarma treatment and 1 week of rejuvenation treatment. The first thing that runs to my mind at the moment is that look on the face of that girl when I asked her of the experience she had at the place. As an answer to my question, ‘do you feel better now? ‘Her reply was something like ‘not really’. I was really in shock after hearing her. I was all in a confused state with a number of questions flooding my mind. How can that be right? Wasn’t Ayurveda herbal treatments suppose to be effective and useful? Over the time my herbal therapy at Aura Ayurveda and Spa began and I had enough and more time to think on what that girl said to me. at the Ayurvedic treatment centre, I was actually not that sure of my treatment duration as the normal Panchakarma treatment would take a month to finish but I didn’t have so much time in hand, so after consulting with the doctor, he confirmed my 2-week Panchakarma treatment and I no longer had to do the complete therapy but only need to undergo a number of main therapies that are a must for me. after revealing my work schedule to the doctor which included one 6 week travel right after the treatment, he expressed concern as in his words it would take a minimum of one month to for myself to get back to the “normal’ stage and that statement explained it all.

After the meeting with the doctor, I went through 3 sets of main treatments as listed in the Panchakarma treatments. As I can’t go deep into the list and details of the treatments listed below are the main herbal treatments that are being included in the Panchakarma treatments.

ABHYAGANM

Abhyangam

This is one of the most important herbal therapies from those listed in the sets of Panchakarma treatments. As per the Ayurvedic practitioners, the treatment offers the patients with an effect that is similar to the one that is received when a person is being saturated with love. The treatment is supposed to soak the body with vital force as the treatment mainly includes whole body massaging by including warm oil that is mixed up with a number of essential oils and healing herbs. In Ayurveda, one of the main aims of Abhyangam is to increase the flow of vital force within the body which would, in turn, result in the vitalizing and nourishment of the body. It helps in removing the toxic elements of the body and stimulated the blood circulation.

podikizhi-

Podikizhi

This is a herbal technique for fomentation where the body of the patient or the certain body parts of the patient is made to sweat with the help of applying different herbal powders. Podikizhi is prepared by mixing up warm herbal powders that are tied in pouches and is introduced to the body in a soft manner. The therapy is brought to conclusion by a simple message with herbal oils. According to the Ayurvedic practitioners, this treatment is said to be very effective in treating the conditions where the ‘Kapha-Vata’ are predominant as in ailments like paralysis, arthritis, muscular pains and back pain. Podikizhi is also said to be useful in a number of other ways as in increasing the blood circulation, loosening the toxic elements, building up the muscles and more.

peralisais-1

Elakizi

This rejuvenation therapy that is being practised most commonly in the Ayurvedic treatment centres of Kerala makes use of the medicinal plants and the fresh herbal leaves available in the land. A number of best effective Anti Vata plants and herbs are being used in this therapy. Some of the most commonly used plants include Eranda, coconut leaves, Arak, Rasna, lemon, Nirgundi and curcumin. Most of these herbs are fried along with a number of other medicinal ingredients and are tied into a pouch which is now ready to use. The pouch before use is dipped in warm medicated oil and then is massaged over the body of the patient in a slow rhythmic manner. According to the Ayurvedic practitioners, this treatment induced liberal sudation which in turn accelerates the process of fomentation. Elakizi is an Ayurvedic treatment in the list of Panchakarma treatment that is very effective in treating ailments like back pain, inflammation and joint pains. In addition, the therapy promotes blood circulation which in turn helps the body with the elimination of the waste materials.

Virechanam-inner

Virechanam

This is yet another important Ayurvedic treatment offered in Kerala that helps in cleaning the Pitta and thereby purifies the toxic elements in the blood. The treatment mainly concentrates on eliminating the toxins from the body are seen accumulated in the gallbladder, the liver and the gastrointestinal tract. The treatment is mostly prescribed in the morning sessions after treating the person with Snehapanam” and “Swedanam after which they are given a particular dose of herbal medicine on an empty stomach. Within a maximum of 2 hrs, the toxic elements from the body are eliminated. This treatment is mostly used in treating ailments that are related to indigestion, hypertension, gastrointestinal disorders, gynaecological disorders, skin ailments, headaches, and a number of stress-related ailments.

nasyam

Nasyam

This is an Ayurvedic treatment offered in almost all the herbals treatment centres of Kerala for any ailment that is related to the head. According to Ayurveda, the nostrils are considered to be the doorway to the brain. In this herbal therapy a number of medicated oil, along with medicated powder and herbal liquids are being administered through the nose for a particular time. The main aim of the Nasya treatment is to remove the excess amount of mucus from the head region of the body. The treatment is very helpful in treating different ailment like sinus, migraine, paralysis, hormonal imbalances, mental disorders, loss of smell and taste, premature greying of hair and much more. The treatment helps in cleaning the cavities in the body which instead helps in increasing the process of oxidation thereby improving the functioning of the brain. Ayurveda offers the patients with a number of different Nasya treatments depending on the number and the types of medicinal oils that are being used. This herbal treatment not just remove the mucus and the toxic elements from the head, neck, brain, eyes, ear, nose and throat region of the body but would also improve immunity and strengthen the functioning of the senses

Most of the Ayurveda packages offered in the treatment centres of Kerala would have the above-listed treatments as the main set of herbal therapies. One of the main reasons for this is as these treatments are best prepared for almost all the basic ailments in a human body. Being one of the most sought-after Ayurvedic travel destinations to the south, Kerala is now home to a number of tests Ayurvedic treatment centres in the country. My Ayurvedic experience at aura spa was one of the best and most rejuvenating. For all the travellers who wish to enjoy the magical touch of Ayurveda by indulging the nature and the beauty of the cool climate, Kerala would be the best preferable destination to the south.

The Finest Tourist Destination of Thrissur and Idukki

January 10, 2019 admin Leave a comment

I have often heard people say that heaven exists on Earth, it is no distant place far away from the world. Well, I wouldn’t have agreed to it a few weeks back, until I went to Kerala. That place is a heaven on Earth, no wonder the state is called ‘God’s own Country’. This tiny little state is truly a wonder. You see Nature’s creations flourishing in this state. The region is literally a display of various shades of green, blue and brown. I can still feel the light breeze that tours the luscious green coconut groves and the chill that surrounds the hills of Munnar. I had the best time of my life in Kerala. I went as a tourist and came back as a traveller from Kerala. Moreover, our travel planner, SeasonzIndia Holidays provided us with a tour package to Kerala at the best possible price. This was indeed icing on the cake. The package was worth every penny, for we could tour almost all the popular tourist destinations of Kerala within a few days time. We covered almost 6 districts during our trip and each district was unique from the other and provided us with an experience to be preserved for an entire lifetime. Of all these places I found Thrissur and Idukki very much interesting. Idukki is the abode of greenery and majestic hills while Thrissur, the cultural capital of Kerala is home to beautiful palaces and ancient temples. I have listed out some of the very best tourist spots in both Idukki and Thrissur. Don’t forget to visit these amazing tourist spots while in Kerala.

Guruvayur Sree Krishna Temple: Guruvayur Sri Krishna temple is undoubtedly one of the best 3 popular temples of Kerala. There is not one day in the temple, that is not crowded with devotees, which is the absolute proof to the fact mentioned before. In fact, one could say that it is the most popular destination in Thrissur. The temple has an enchanting architecture. The engravings on the wall and the sculptures of the Hindu Gods are simply spectacular. The temple is worth a visit. Your visit to Thrissur becomes incomplete without visiting Guruvayur Sree Krishna Temple.

Shakthan Thampuran Palace: Shakthan Thampuran Palace is undoubtedly one of the best tourist spots in Delhi. The palace was built by Raja Rama Varma in the year 1791. Both history and art lovers are going to fall in love with the place, its Dutch architecture is definitely a sight to behold. The palace is open on all days except Mondays from 9:30 am to 4:30 PM. The palace is home to some amazing relics and antique pieces that once belonged to the King. No visit to Thrissur is complete without visiting the Shakthan Thampuran Palace.

Thrissur Zoo and State Museum: Thrissur Zoo and State Museum located in Chembukkavu which is the heart of Thrissur city. The Zoo houses a large variety of flora and fauna and is one of the best places to take your children. If you are a wildlife enthusiast, then you should definitely visit the zoo when in Thrissur. The museum displays a collection of wonderful artefacts and relics that are said to have a lot of historical significance. There is a story behind almost all the artefacts stored in the museum and the details about each artefact will be given next to it. Such a visit helps in updating your knowledge too. The Thrissur Zoo and State Museum will open on all days of the week except on Mondays. The timings for visiting are from 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM. Include this spot into your tour itinerary while you are in Kerala.

Vintage Vauxhall Velox Car Club: If you ever pay a visit to Thrissur, do not miss this extraordinary museum of cars. It is going to gift you with a whole new experience. Vintage Vauxhall Velox Car Club exhibits cars from the late 50s and 60s. This is the perfect place for car enthusiasts as you can happily do the thing that you do best over here, which is to study cars. Vintage car lovers should not miss this place at any cost. When you get there you can see an array of cars displayed in a very attractive manner. As said always, the vintage never goes out of style and people are loving this museum. If you ever feel like visiting the museum head to Pallikulam in Thrissur. Vintage Vauxhall Velox Car Club is open all weekdays except Sundays. The visiting hours are from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Painavu: If sightseeing is what you love, then you must head to Painavu. The vast expanse of captivating scenery where the lush green hills overlook the crystal clear lake that flows beside them is a sight that travellers look forward to when they include Painavu in their tour package to Kerala. Painavu is a wonderful hill resort situated in Idukki. Painavu is often called the headquarters of Idukki district and is also a popular tourist destination. Painavu is located in the Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary at an altitude of 3900 ft. Adventure lovers are going to love Painavu as it is a great destination for trekking.

Ilaveezha Poonchira: Ilaveezha Poonchira is a unique destination located in the Idukki district. Ilaveezha Poonchira is a valley that is situated at the foot of three hillocks namely, Mannakunnu, Kudayathoor Hill, and Thonippara near a place called Kanjar. Any idea how Ilaveezha Poonchira got its name? Ilaveezha Poonchira, in the native language, means’ the valley where leaves never fall’. There are no trees in the valley which is why it was named so. Ilaveezha Poonchira offers great views of both the sunrise and sunset. One can also try trekking in Ilaveezha Poonchira which is a wonderful experience as well. Ilaveezha Poonchira is gradually turning into one of the best tourist destinations in the state and is included in almost all the tourism packages to Kerala.

Thommankuthu Waterfalls: The Thommankuthu Waterfalls is one of the best waterfalls in the entire state. Situated about 25km away from the main town of Idukki.the splendid waterfalls attracts loads of visitors every year. The magnificent waterfalls fall from a height of 300 feet and is a seven-step cascading waterfall which creates a pool at every step. The greenery surrounding the fall is a mesmerizing sight. You can indulge in some fun time near the waterfalls and swim in the pool. The spray of water as it juts out is an experience that is worth everything. The area is also an amazing trekking spot as well. Thommankuthu Waterfalls is one of the best waterfalls in Idukki and it ought to be added to your travel itinerary for a fantastic experience.

Hill View Park: Hill View Park is located at a very convenient spot where travellers can reach it easily. It is situated 500 meters away from the Idukki Dam. So, on your way back from Idukki Dam you can also visit the park. In fact, you must visit the place, it is simply beautiful. The park offers great views of the scenery that surrounds it. While here, you can even get an opportunity to spot a wild elephant as well. Do add the Hill View Park in your travel itinerary and rest assured you are not going to regret it.

Vandanmedu: Vandanmedu is a very popular tourist spot of the Idukki district. Often called the spice centre of Idukki, Vandanmedu is one of the largest auction centres for cardamom in the world. Vandanmedu is located 34km away from Idukki city. Vandanmedu is situated at a height of 4000m on the Thekkady-Munnar route. Vandanmedu can make a proper getaway from the busy city life and tensions of daily lives. Honeymoon couples love the destination a lot. Every year a number of honeymooners come flocking into the destination every year. Vandanmedu is a place that should not be missed especially by those who loves serenity and quietness. A trip to Vandanmedu will help you forget all worries.

FOUR MUST VISIT PLACES IN ERNAKULAM

January 7, 2019 admin Leave a comment

Kerala is a wonderful destination to relax and rejuvenate yourselves. Each and everything about Kerala intrigues and excites me. The land is so unique and beautiful. If you are a person who is so involved in a busy work life then you should definitely take a vacation to Kerala, God’s own Country. Once you reach this stunning destination you will forget every worries and tension haunting you. Such is the power of this tiny coastal state of India, Kerala. Well, this destination is a true enchantress in every aspect. As heath of greenery surrounds this state and is absolutely pleasing to the eyes. This time I took my family along with me to Kerala and guess what they were extremely happy with the entire trip. They literally fell in love with Kerala. In such a short period of time, we were taken to almost all the popular tourist destinations of Kerala like Munnar, Ernakulam, Thekkady, Alleppey, Wagamon, Fort Kochi, Trivandrum etc. Thanks to our travel operator, Gogeo Holidays for making our trip so beautiful. They have a remarkable range of family tour packages to Kerala that comes at very reasonable prices. We did have our doubts first about the quality of our deal due to such low prices but our travel operators proved us wrong and we are so glad that we choose a package from Gogeo.

Of all the places that we visited, Ernakulam was our personal favorite. The place is a complete package in itself. A traveled is provided with everything. Be it dance bars where you get to party all through the night, the heavenly lush green landscapes where you can unwind yourselves and relax amidst the serenity offered or even the historical forts narrating intense tales of history, Ernakulam has everything that you desire. You should not miss visiting Ernakulam while in Kerala. Here are some of the places that you ought to visit in Ernakulam:

Mattancherry Palace: Often called the Dutch Palace, the Mattancherry palace is one of the most intriguing tourist spots of Fort Kochi. The Mattancherry Palace was built by the Portuguese in 1557 and was presented to the erstwhile ruler of Cochin. Till to this date, the Palace attracts a large number of travelers. The Mattancherry Palace depicts a great blend of Portuguese, Dutch and Keralite architecture. Though the mansion is styled in Portuguese, the interiors architecture is done in the Keralite manner. The Dutch influence in the architecture is a result of renovation done by the Dutch a few decades after building the palace in the 16th century. The courtyard of Mattancherry Palace is extremely attractive. A temple for the Goddess Bhagavathy, which is considered as the protective deity of Kochi can be seen on the beautiful courtyard. Moreover, there are temples for Lord Siva and Lord Krishna inside the palace. The biggest attraction of the Mattancherry Palace is definitely the mural paintings depicting the Hindu Mythological tales. The paintings arouse your curiosity as every painting is narrates a tale in the most beautiful manner. The Mattancherry Palace is open for visitors on all days except on Friday from 10 am to 5 pm.

Indo-Portuguese Museum: The Indo-Portuguese Museum displays a wonderful blend of both Indian and Portuguese architecture. Even the relics and artifacts housed by the museum is an amalgamation of both the cultures. The museum is located near Fort Kochi. It is said to have been built by the former Bishop of Kochi, Joseph Urethra. When you visit the museum you will be able to see that the museum is divided into 5 wings namely, Cathedral, Altar of Furniture, Treasure, Civil Life and Procession. The most priced and attractive possessions of the Indo-Portuguese Museum include the Coat of Arms of the Francis, Indo-Portuguese Monstrance and the Processional Cross made from precious metals like silver and gold. The museum is open for visitors from Tuesdays to Saturdays from 10 am to 5 pm. The museum remains closed on all the public holidays. The entry fee is Rs 10 for the natives and Rs.25 for foreigners. Well, if you are planning to visit on Thursday, you don’t have to carry any money to the museum, as the entry is free!

Jewish Synagogue: The Jewish Synagogue is one of the most famous attractions of Kochi. The Jewish Synagogue also called the Paradesi Synagogue, was built in 1568 and is considered as one of the oldest Jewish Synagogues in India. The Synagogue was built by the Malabar Yehudan People (the Jewish Community of Kochi) and is situated in the Jew Town of Kochi. The synagogue is home to some very important and sacred relics and artifacts like the teak ark which consists of four scrolls of Torah, chandeliers made using Belgian glass, ancient copper plates, crowns made of gold and silver, a clock tower and carpets which are hand woven. Jewish Synagogue still stands as a mesmerizing wonder. The synagogue is open all days of the week from 10 am to 5 pm. It will be closed from 12 to 3 in the noon. There is no entry fee to the Synagogue. Due to its popularity, most of the tour packages to Kerala both the cheapest and the best include the Jewish Synagogue in it.

Hill Palace: Hill Palace, situated in Tripunitura, is also an important tourist attraction of Kochi. Hill Palace is an archaeological wonder. It is a heritage museum that houses many important relics and artifacts that belonged to the Maharaja of Kochi. The splendid palace was constructed in 1869 and houses almost 49 rooms. The artifacts of the museum have a significant history to it. The gardens and the ponds of the Palace is a major attraction in the region. The museum houses an art gallery which is a hub of art lovers and painters. The major attractions of the Palace include Kudakkallu which is the tombstone, Thoppikkallu and various prototypes of objects that are believed to be from Mohenjodaro and Harappa of the Indus Valley Civilisation. Historians and history lovers are going to find this place extremely interesting. Children are also going to love Hill Palace as it houses a children’s park and zoo as well. It is indeed a good place for families to tour. The palace will be open on all days except on Mondays. The entry fee is Rs.30 per person.

Andaman, the Island Cluster with Ravishing Beauty as in a Paradise

January 3, 2019 admin Leave a comment

Trust me; travelling from Chennai to Andaman is one of the best and easiest ways in which you could reach the capital city of Port Blair. Even after being a traveller from Delhi the one main reason for me to choose a tour package to Andaman from Chennai is due to the cheaper travel rates and availability of cruises from the city to the island at cost-effective rates. My holiday trip to Andaman was organised by Andaman tour travel, one of the best rates travel operators functioning in the field. As the travel package that I choose did not include the travel expenses I was all on my own until I reached Chennai, where I met the travel representative of Andaman tour travel. From Chennai, I took the cruise that was pre-booked for me and started my trip to Andaman with my travel guide who was to accompany me while at Andaman. The package that I choose included 2-night and 3-day and included almost all the best travel destinations in the island where I indulged in a number of best adventure activities offered at the place. Given below are the best travel destinations that I explored at Andaman and the must-visit attractions at the islands.

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Port Blair, the Capital City:

The very first place that was listed in the package choose from Chennai was port Blair, being the capital city of Andaman and Nicobar islands the place is one of the most sought-after travel destinations in the island clusters. Apart from being the capital city the place also holds within a number of best travel attractions where most of them are the historic attractions. Port Blair is one of the best destinations in Andaman that domestic travellers and tourists like those from the states like Chennai should explore as the historic destination in the island like the cellular jail which is an evident reminder of the freedom struggle against the Britishers.

Best places to visit:

The Cellular Jail
The Mahatma Gandhi Marine National Park
Chatham Sawmill
North Bay Island
Jolly Buoy Island
Mount Harriet
Chidiya Tapu
Anthropological Museum

andaman tour kolkata

Have-lock, the Beach Capital:

Andaman, being an island destination, most of the travel spots in the area is filled with fascinating beach destinations, but then the Have-lock Island is one of a kind. The place is mostly referred to as the beach capital due to the innumerable number of beaches available at the place. One of the most known beach destinations in the Have-lock Island is the Radhanagar breach which is well explored by travellers from around the world. Taking in the ratio of the domestic travellers tripping to the island, the rate at which the travellers from Chennai are comparatively high. This is mainly due to the ease of the travel that most of the domestic, as well as foreign travellers, choose to trip from Chennai.

Best places to visit:

Kala Pathar Beach
Radhanagar Beach
Elephant Beach
Vijayanagar Beach

andaman tour

Baratang, the Island of Uniqueness:

Located not too far from the capital city, Baratang Island is one of the most unique travel destinations in Andaman. The place I would say as a must visit for all the travellers who are in search of the unique elements of the land. This picturesque island offers the travellers and the tourists with a number of unique attractions which includes the beaches, the caves and even the tribal settlements in the island. The Baratang island is known to be home to the tribal settlements in Andaman which makes the place the best unique among the Andaman cluster of islands. It mainly the presence of the tribal settlement in the island that makes it the most explored places among the domestic travellers especially the tourist from Chennai and such cities.

Best places to visit:

Limestone Caves
Mud Volcano
Parrot Island
Baludera Beach

andaman tour chennai

Neil Island, the Adventurer’s Paradise:

Mostly referred to as the adventurer’s paradise, Neil Island is one of the best spots for all the adrenaline junkies and adventure lovers. The place is mostly known for the different underwater adventures like deep sea diving, sea walking, snorkelling and more. This magnificent island is best known for its coral reefs and white sand shorelines filled with palm-fringed. It is mainly due to the wider availability and popularity of the corals the island is referred to as the coral capital of Andaman. Most of the traveler’s and the tourists from Chennai traverse Neil Island to enjoy and explore the beautiful coral world under the waters of Neil Island.

Best places to visit:

Bharatpur Beach
Sitapur Beach
Laxmanpur Bridge
Natural Bridge

andaman tour packages

Ross Island, the Land of Memories:

The rose island is one perfect destination for the travellers who are loved to explore the ruins and the olden constructions in Andaman and Nicobar Island. This picturesque island holds in the memories of the colonial periods that fascinates and attracts the travellers to a greater extent. Most of the travellers from Chennai who visits the ruins mainly aim at exploring the history and the story that each ruin hold within. The place is most known for the penal colony that precedes the cellular jail, the place was once used to incarcerate the political prisoners and the ruins of the constructions can be spotted at the rose island even now.

Best places to visit:

The Rose Island Penal Colony
British Colony Ruins
Japanese Bunkers
Barren Island
The Forest Department Museum

Most of the tour package organised to the Andaman Nicobar covers almost all of the above-listed travel destinations as they are being the most explore in the island clusters. With fascinating beauty, charm and uniqueness the place is listed as one of the most explore travel destination in the world by the national geographic travellers. Dotted in the Bay of Bengal the Andaman Islands offers the travellers with all that one needs to enjoy a memorable holiday. Starting from a number of unique attractions, natural attractions and wonders, beach destinations, adventures, history, ruins and much more the island holds in the best of treats that any traveller would love to explore. Listed under the union territory of India, the Andaman cluster of islands is one fascinating paradise to explore.

Ultimate Travel Guide: Explore the Fascinating Destinations in Kerala at Pocket-Friendly Rates

January 1, 2019January 1, 2019 admin Leave a comment

kerala

To south Kerala is one of the well explored and most sought after travel destination which is one main reason for the place to be the costliest travel destination to the south. Filled with the true beauty of nature, the place is well explored by travelers from different parts of the world. But according to the latest statistic reports the rate at which the travelers visiting the state have declined to a greater extent and the main reason for the same is listed as the increasing travel rates. To solve this issue the travel and tourism department with travel operators like Dream Holiday have organized a number of tour packages to Kerala at cheaper rates. Bu then if it is to plan a cost-effective and pocket-friendly trip exploring the nature and the best travel destinations of Kerala, there are a number of other tips that the travelers could make use of. Listed below are some of the main tips by which the travelers could enjoy and explore the beauty of the travel destinations in Kerala at cheaper rates.

Choose the Best Offbeat Travel Destination

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It is mostly the choice of travel destination that brings a change in the travel price when planning a trip to Kerala. The state is the most sought-after travel destination to the south holds within a number of best travel destinations with fascinating natural beauty and charm. Most of the travel destinations in Kerala are classified into two like the off-beat travel destinations and the most explored travel spots. The travel rates to the off-beat travel destinations in Kerala are mostly cheap and pocket-friendly whereas the travel rates or the travel package rates to the best rates travel spots in Kerala like Munnar, Alleppey and more would be very high. Some of the best off-beat travel destinations in Kerala that the travelers could explore at cheap and pocket-friendly rates include Kollam, Kottayam, Thrissur, Trivandrum and more. Like all the other best travel destinations in Kerala, the off-beat travel spots in the land offers and holds within the best beauty of nature and wild.

Choose the Off-Season for the Trip

kerala trip

Apart from the travel destination, the one thing that influences or contributes to the travel rates or the increasing package rates is the choice of season for the trip. Even though Kerala is a state with a moderate climate that is prevailing throughout the year, some months in the year are supposed to be the peak period or season of travel to certain travel destinations. And during the peak seasons, the travel rates and the travel package rates to the beat and most of the off-beat travel destinations of the state would be at its best hike as compared to the travel package rates and the travel price during the off-season. One of the best ways in which the travelers could save the maximum amount on a trip to Kerala is by booking any travel package during the off-season to the off-beat travel destinations in Kerala. With this choice, the travelers get to enjoy the best of the beauty of nature in Kerala at cheap and cost-effective rates.

kerala accomadation

Accommodation mode is another element of travel that eats up most of the travel expense when it comes to exploring the travel destinations in Kerala. The state is the most sought-after travel destination to the south offers the travelers with a number of best options for accommodation which are both cheap and luxurious. If it is to enjoy a budget trip to the best travel destinations of Kerala, it would be more preferable that you choose the budget modes of accommodations which include homestays, budget hotels, dorm rooms, camping options and more. By choosing the best cost-effective and budget modes of accommodation the travelers tripping to explore the fascinating destinations of Kerala could save a large sum from the travel price. Even if you are choosing a travel package make sure that the hotel booked or the mode accommodation made is cheap and cost-effective and would meet all your basic needs.

Travel in Public Transports

RAILWAY

As Kerala is one of the most explored travel destinations to the south and is one of the developing states almost all the best travel destinations in Kerala are well connected by public transports which include public bus and train. If it is for a town to town travel it is the best that you choose a public transportation like a bus as the ticket rates for the bus are much cheaper as compared to all the other modes of transportation. In addition, the travelers also get a chance to mingle up with the locals in the area and know their lifestyle from a closer angle and if it is a long journey the railways are always the best choice.

Avoid Un-Necessary Expenses

kerala tour

When it comes to a trip exploring the travel destinations in Kerala, most of the expenses are of purchases and shopping. It is true that shopping is an unavoidable part of holiday tours but it is important that you know your needs. It is advisable that the travelers while tripping to Kerala buys less from the place of attraction at the rates would be high at the place, in such situations, it is beneficial to buy the same from places closer to the town where the rates of the material would be cheaper.

kerala

The travelers who are more interested in availing the tour packages are free to do the same by choosing the best price, effective budget trips organized to Kerala. Filled with the fascinating beauty of nature and a blessed climate, Kerala is one of the most enticing states with great charm. It is not just the natural beauty of the place that attracts the travelers, but the historic destinations in the land, the cultural art forms and the pilgrim centers of the land all attract the travelers to a greater extent. With best unique attractions Kerala to the south is a must explore spot to the south.