kerala Archives - Page 2 of 6 - Best Destinations in the World

A Few Salient Features of Agasthyarkoodam – The Breathtaking Peak in Kerala

February 12, 2020February 19, 2020 admin Leave a comment

Kerala is a gift of the Arabian Sea. The state is abundantly blessed with natural resources. It is also called as ‘God’s own country’ and no wonder why the state has been bejewelled with the title. The marvellous beauty of the state lures travellers from various parts of the world. Words are insufficient to express the beauty of the state. The meandering rivers bubbling over rocks, sparkling waterfalls flowing through the thickly populated woodlands, undisturbed backwaters, avalanching movement of sand in pristine beaches, emerald forest ornamented with wilderness and tweaks of birds, magnificent bowl-shaped valleys and awe-inspiring mountains blanketed with the lush green carpets of tea and coffee plantations and many more. One whole essay would not be enough to beautify the charm of the state. The state is adorned with many historic monuments and herbal rejuvenation centers. Most of the foreigner avails of tour packages for participating in various kinds of Ayurveda treatments. The climate of Kerala is favourable not only to Indians but also to people from other nations. It is being a decade that the state started to give prominence to the tourism sector. And as part of enhancing tourism sectors, many disquieting hill stations and historic streets were being unveiled. Thousands of travellers visit the state by purchasing the packages for a cheap price to explore the magnificent gem hidden in unexplored parts of Kerala. Kerala is a haven for adventure lovers. The breathtaking hill stations and offers immense chances to improve their skills in trekking and rock climbing. It is not possible to describe each and every sparkling destination of the state with its peculiarities. I would like to dedicate this essay to explain the salient features of the famous hill called Agasthyarkoodam.

kerala tour packages with price

Agastyarkoodam hill is the second tallest peaks in Kerala. It is situated in Thiruvananthapuram, the capital of Kerala. It is one of the utterly bare and precipitous hill stations in Kerala. It is situated in the premises of Neyyar Wildlife sanctuary with a height of 1868 m. The hill is known as Pothigai Malai hill in Tamil Nadu. The slopes of the hills are blanketed with purple orchids. The hill shelters to various types of birds. Famously the hill is known for trekking but most of the Hindu believers consider the hill as a pilgrimage. On the top of the hill one could find a statue of Agasthya sage withholding a stone crusher on one hand and a bowl of medicines on other hands. Worshipers climb to the top and offer prayers to him. He belongs to one of the seven sages (Saptarishis) of Hindu ideology. He is considered the father of Indian traditional medicines and Tamil literature. The surroundings of the hill are occupied with a tribal community called ‘Kanis’. They are engaged in various activities conducted by the forest department.

The Story Behind the Agasthyarkoodam Hill

For long years women were not allowed to climb to the top of the hill as the Agasthya muni was celibate i.e. Bhramachary and intervention of women will affect the purity of the mountain. But 2 years ago the ban on women climbing the hill was removed and in January 2019 the first lady to conquer the mountain was Dhanya Sanal. Followed to her 100 women registered their names for trekking to the Agasthyarkoodam hill. There is also a story revolving around the hill is when all the sages (munis or maharishis) went to Himalaya for attending the wedding of Lord Shiva and Lord Parvathi the tilt to one side. Then Lord Shiva insisted Agasthya Muni to go the southern portion and balance the earth. He obeyed the commands. Gradually he liked the place and decided to reside there.

Trekking to Agasthyarkoodam Hills

cheap and best Kerala tour packages

Unlike other hills in Kerala, you can plan out trekking to Agasthyarkoodam hill when you wished to do. As aforementioned the hill is dedicated to Agasthya sage and hence trekking on it is possible only in the month of January i.e. the trekking routes will be opened on Makaravilaku till Shivarathri. Actually there are two routes that lead to the hill. First is through the Neyyar wildlife sanctuary and that is closed and the second route is Bonacaud village. The village is situated 69 km from the Trivandrum International Airport. So travellers coming from Delhi, Punjab, and Bangalore can either travel in local transport or can purchase the tour packages from Dream Holidays and the tour guides will guide you to the village. Trekking the hill will require three days. Before reaching the Bonacaud village trekkers have to avail of an entry pass of INR 500. Per day 100 pass will be issued. The issuing of passes will be started a couple of days before the Makaravilaku. Trekkers can purchase online also.

Itinerary for Trekking

1st-day Bonacaud – Athiramula Base Camp

Travellers will have to reach the Bonacaud base by 7 am. It will take around for registration and verification. Do not forget to carry the necessary identity cards. Collect the food coupons and purchase the water bottles. You can start your trekking by 8 am. It will take 6 hrs to reach the Athiramula base camp. Over there you can rest and encash your coupon and satiate your hunger. After refreshing, you can stroll through the jungle. Do not make a loud noise as it will disturb the animals. You can build a camp and can spend your night in it. The canteen in the base camp works from 6.30 am to 8.30 pm, therefore, collect the food coupons for the next day before you sleep.

2nd-day Athiramula Base Camp- Agasthayrkoodam Hill

After having light breakfast you can continue your trekking to the hill. It will take approximately 5 hrs to reach the top of the hill. On reaching the top of the hill you can capture the pictures of serene nature and soak yourself in nature’s bliss. Don’t forget to pack your lunch. Spend a few hours on the hill and return your journey before the sunsets. You can rest in the tent in the Athriamulla base camp.

3rd-day Athiramulla Base Camp – Bonacaud

Followed to the breakfast travellers can descend to the village. It will take 6 hrs to reach the slope. From there you can return to your hometown. If you are new to Thiruvananthapuram you can visit the historic places of the district before concluding the trip.

cheapest honeymoon packages to kerala

Dream Holidays are one such travel operator in Kerala that curates special packages for adventure enthusiasts. If you have any concerns regarding the same without any hesitation you can contact their customer representatives.

Unveiling the Hidden Gem of Kottayam- Mango Meadows with My Better Half

January 31, 2020 admin Leave a comment

I don’t know how to start writing. I rethink it is the 5th time I am trying to pen down my romantic days in limited words. Don’t think that I wrote one or two words in my last 4 attempts and then deleted it. More than a paragraph I wrote and then I thought the words are inappropriate or the introduction is not good without rethinking I just pressed the backspace key. After refreshing for a while I reattempted the task. I hope this time it may work. It is a normal custom that newly married couples plan an exotic honeymoon trip soon after their wedding. But for us, we planned our honeymoon after a year! Isn’t it strange? Whenever we share our honeymoon stories with our friends they used to wonder and ask what were you guys doing till then. And I hope after reading this you may also have asked the same question in your mind. To quench your anxiety I will explain the reason.

Kerala tour packages with price

The main obstacle for our honeymoon was our ‘job’. We both were working in a reputed multinational company. Soon after marriage like an ordinary couple, we weaved many destinations for our romantic trip but fate betrayed us. Suddenly my husband was assigned to do a project in the United States of America. With a broken heart, we accepted our destiny. The project was only for 6 months. After 184 days my hubby returned and we again started planning our pending romantic trip. But again destiny started testing our patience this time I got an assignment in the United Arab Emirates for half a year. For securing my job I was forced to accept the order. It was very hard for us to live without each other. I moved to the UAE. I started to countdown each day. Finally, I returned back. Each time when we successfully pass the tests given by destiny, destiny itself will reward us with precious gifts in return and it was true in our case.

As I am friendly in nature I never felt any kind of difficulty interacting with people whom I have never met before. When I was in the United Arab Emirates one of my colleagues who hailed from Kerala, a state in south India (NB: The majority of the population of the UAE is Malayalee), was very friendly to me. We shared all our personal stories. One day accidentally I got a chance to view her honeymoon pictures. To be very frank the pictures were really awesome. For a moment I thought the place will be somewhere outside India. I inquired her about her honeymoon destination. She with little shy told me that it was none other than Kerala. According to me, Kerala was a state comprised of only tranquil backwaters and breathtaking hill stations. It was hard for me to believe they celebrated their first love in a park. They mainly concentrated the Mango Meadows of Kottayam district of Kerala for sowing their first seeds of romance. I also asked her does she had any relatives or friends over there. They don’t have anyone in Kerala it was through the travel agency called Dream Holidays that helped them to make their honeymoon trip fabulous. They availed of their tour packages online. On returning to Delhi I discussed the same to my husband. He was very happy and agreed to purchase the packages.

cheapest kerala tour packages

The best time to visit the Mango Meadows is from September to March. By mid of January, we purchased the package. On reaching Cochin International Airport from Delhi Airport our tour representative greeted us with a garland made of lotus and also they applied a paste made out of sandalwood on our forehead. For a moment we thought after a year of marriage we again became bride and groom. From the airport, it took more than an hour to reach Kottayam district. On reaching Mango Meadows our tour representative guided us to lake resort. As we were very hungry we had lunch first and then we moved to our room. Words are insufficient to describe the relishing taste of food. Till then I had only seen varieties of cuisines in luxurious hotels but it was for the first time I am seeing this in the resort. By the evening we started our excursion. We first selected the shikari boating. We had already booked for the same while purchasing the packages, therefore, we didn’t have to waste our time getting the passes. Boating through the mangrove forests gave us a scintillating experience which we never had experienced before. Apart from boating, there were many couples who were engaged in various activities like shooting, cycling, badminton and archery and so on.

cheap and best kerala tour packages

There are many interesting things to enjoy and see. Our tour guide told us that the Biodiversity Park sprawls in an area of 30 acres with more than 4,800 varieties of flowering plants, 780 types of trees, and 174 species of fruits. The man-made park was constructed under the leadership of Mr. M Kurian. He is a true nature lover and took 14 years to build this park. In the park, we could not only see honeymoon couples but also many families and youngsters who come there to explore the serenity of the park. Most of the family bring their kids to the park for a picnic. It is the only place in Kerala where parents and children could enjoy their time in their own way. As the parks consist of amusement parks for children and secluded areas for adults both can discover the gem hidden in nature in their way. As we wanted to spend a night in treehouse we asked our tour guide to make slight changes in the packages. And he agreed for it. Words are insufficient to express the feeling of spending a night in the midst of forests. we began our next day by hearing the meticulous chirp from birds.

kerala honeymoon packages with airfare

We also rowed in ‘Kotta vanchi’ (basket boat). We were afraid of whether it will break. But it was strong as a pillar. We also did fishing and fed food to the fishes while we were in the lake resort. It is the belief of Hindus that feeding fishes are like feeding to Lord Vishnu. We then moved to ‘Sarppa Kavu’. It is a place where serpents rest. It regarded as a sacred place by Hindus. People from various places come here to worship the serpents. It is believed that serpents have the magical power to cure wounds and illnesses of all kinds. There are many more places in the park. The park is actually divided into various sections such as Bird sanctuary. Over here we captured the beautiful images of varieties of birds in our camera the authorities have allocated special benches to sit and mesmerize the beauty of birds. Animal husbandry and Plant nursery is another place that helps to study more about nature. Nakashtraval is the place where people can find trees related to their Malayalam Zodiac sign. Bible Statute is another eye-catching place. The Bible is placed on a long wooden structure with its centre page opened.

After spending two days in Mango Meadows we moved to other places to explore the beauty of Kottayam. Places like Bay Island Drift Museum, St. Mary’s Orthodox Church (it is built-in Hindu architectural style), Poonjar Palace, and many more. After 4 days we departed to Delhi by carrying sweet memories and sweet gifts for our relatives and friends.

Eleanor’s Tomb as the Epitome of Love in the Old Munnar of Kerala

January 28, 2020 admin Leave a comment

The hill station of Munnar was even more beautiful and pristine in the late 19^th century when the colonial powers did annexe many regions and started farming. You might have been to the CSI church at the hilltop of Munnar casually on your vacationing in Idukki. Moreover, the ancient spiritual structure built by the British in the early 20^th century can be appreciated for its distinctive stained glass windows laid very beautifully amid the large primitive stone by which it was constructed. Nevertheless, the nearby laid tomb of Eleanor has got various touching stories behind it that are almost unknown to the present world. Below given are some intriguing facts which prove that the mysterious tomb for Eleanor was indeed an epitome of love.

Eleanor could predict her death

kerala tour packages from ahmedabad by air

The British deemed the place as a hot honeymoon destination and a young couple of Henry Knight and his young bride Eleanor Isabel May visited them. On reaching the picturesque location, Eleanor was very impressed by the impeccable beauty of Munnar. So on their casual talks, while they were strolling in the hills, she requested him that if she had breathed her last in this beautiful land, she must be buried here itself. It is believed that she was having an intuition that her final days were approaching hurriedly. Even an unlikely death at such a young age due to Cholera was quite tragic.

The graveyard was constructed well before the Church

kerala trip plan

The popular spiritual centre of CSI Church of Munnar was only built 17 years later the graveyard was constructed where the young couples had been roaming in the hills. It was for the first time ever in the history that such as act was happening. Moreover, the church does follow the ancient architectural style of large Gothic buildings. The structure situated in the hilltop of this part of Munnar is laid out by hewn granites and marbles that were brought from England. At present, the British Association for Cemeteries of South Asia had included the tomb and graveyard in the ‘International Directory of Cemeteries.’

Presence of Fresh flowers every day

People on tour to Munnar would inevitably get mesmerized of the aesthetic beauty of the place created by lush green shrubs, flowers and large trees. They can even be found hanging in every old structure quite adorably. However, quite strangely, the fresh flowers spread on this particular tomb of Eleanor that is being watched by a dog on most of the days are still a mystery. One could realize the true spirit of real love at such a sight. Henceforth, tourists who are travelling to this part of Kerala and those who believe in the concept of true love should never skip their visit to the ancient church and longing tomb, even if they are not readily included in their tour packages.

Eleanor used to be mourned by her husband at the tomb almost every day

best tour packages in kerala

Her fond husband Mr Henry Mansfield Knight could not accept the sudden death of his wife at such an early age. Furthermore, there was only a 3 days gap since she had informed him about her last wish. Fulfilling her final demands, a graveyard was built in the same spot where they had spent their last romantic moments together. Before arriving at this particular spot, they had already strolled alongside the large Eucalyptus trees and expansive tea plantations. So the sweet memories that they cherished about the place were very close to their heart. The separation of Henry from his dear wife made him desperate and was seen breaking down every day near her tomb.

The adjacent CSI church was a place of refuge in the 1924 deluge

When you are travelling up to Munnar in any tour packages, once reaching up to Kochi by air, you would never feel that you are on tour in a disaster-hit region that had even fought back in 2018 Kerala floods. However, in the onset of heavy monsoon in 1924 was absolutely unpredicted in these high range parts. The mighty river of Periyar was in brimming with floodwaters. By the heavy shower, even the sleepers of Kundala Valley Railway (as it was called then) were washed off. In that gruesome instant, both the displaced locals and foreigners rushed on to the CSI church situated in the uphill. In the strongly built church was a place of refuge for them, just as the people from different communities stayed safe in the churches, temples and mosque, gurudwaras of Ahmedabad in the major floods of 2017.

Remnants of past histories like the Eleanor’s Tomb are quite many in the scenic hill station of Munnar, as it was a hot destination among the British. It was them who introduced and further expanded the cultivation of the major crop of tea in the vast slopes of Munnar and the nearby regions. In addition to the tea factories built by them, they had constructed many other monuments that are spread in various other locations in the state. So to travel up to those historically significant spots smoothly, you may contact Gogeo Holidays. The reputed tour company had set many varied kinds of tour packages to fulfil the travel requirements of each of the tourists to its fullest. Moreover, the popular travel firm had gained a remarkable customer satisfaction after working efficiently for all through these years of experience.

The Best Ever Houseboat Cruise across Ashtamudi Lake in Kerala: A Soothing Travelogue from Delhi

January 27, 2020 admin Leave a comment

It was the first time ever that both me and my younger brother watching such a vast experience of water in such a serene environment. And we were in happiness that knew no bounds watching such a sight. When mom said that Kerala was the God’s Own Country, all of us thought that she has got biased opinions for her native place. But once we had reached that beautiful destination, we realized that what she was saying was indeed true. Although she is a Bhojpuri, she was born and brought up in Kochi, as our Naana used to work there during those years. She has always got boundless words when appreciating about the aesthetic beauty of Kerala.

So when we thought of a perfect place for our tour in puja holidays, it was she who suggested Kerala. Moreover, my younger brother Chotu was having asthma issues so we could not choose any cold hill stations. Once the main location was confirmed, both I and dad were busy searching about the possible tourist sites in the place, where we could visit on our vacation. We got to know about the tour packages offered by a popular travel firm of Kerala called Dream Holidays as they had good ratings and attention-grabbing ads on the web. They had one of the best ratings among all other companies. Moreover, they had the packages to varied locations such as those based in hill stations, backwaters, beaches and whatnot. Quite surprisingly, most of them were at the cheapest rates.

cheap and best kerala tour packages

So on the very next day after Chootu’s school exams, we were at the airport in Delhi. I was also having semester break at my college and I never had to worry about the number of days that would take for our trip. Dad had also taken his weeklong leave from the office. From the Indira Gandhi International Airport on the scheduled date and time, all of us boarded a flight and reached the Trivandrum International Airport within a flying time of 3 hours and 20 minutes. Since we had boarded an early morning flight, we were not feeling much hungry but were thirsty. The moment when we were moving out of the main building, we saw somebody standing with a placard showing ‘Gupta and family.’ Dad went up to him and confirmed that it was our tour guide. His name was Somadev.

As per the instructions given by him, we had to travel for around 2 and a half-hour of the journey. After moving some distance, we saw a roadside vendor selling tender coconuts. We pulled over the car and all of us sipped the natural drink. It was truly refreshing. Later in the journey when we had covered the urban spaces of Kollam city, we crossed over numerous bridges and sights on both sides were indeed scenic. I didn’t know whether that was a lake or river, anyways there were just too many water bodies whichever directions we turned our heads at. The next striking factor that I noted was that the greenery here can be seen nowhere else in the country! Chootu missed all of this, as he had slept after sipping that natural drink. Finally, we arrived at our resort where we to stay for our holiday in Kerala.

There were many smiling faces around us. All of them seemed friendly right from the very first moment. The staffs there welcomed all four of us with a flower garland and adorned with a pinch of Kumkum on our foreheads. Quite strangely, Chootu was getting intimidated at this friendly gesture for which all of us burst out laughing. As the resort was on the banks of the lakeside, it already had natural landscaping. Chootu was with dad when they went for checking-in, meanwhile, both I and mom took many selfies. Our guide was back to us when we were settling in. Later he informed was what we were badly waiting for. The houseboat ride across the Ashtamudi Lake!

cheapest kerala tour packages

The boat that we were to cruise was already moored at their private jetty. It looked classy and elegant. They were owned and maintained by the same resort that we had relied on our tour. We quickly rushed into the massive houseboat. Just then I got realized that we were provided with a boat with all the facilities that a suite room of a hotel is comprised. It had a living area, two bedrooms, one kitchen and a balcony. Everything was set beautifully and was spacious. The materials from which they were made were even more exciting. Out of curiosity, I enquired this to the guide. He said that they were made in traditional Kerala architecture with natural materials such as coir, bamboo and woods of coconut and areca nut trees.

Our houseboat started moving slowly. The sun was scorching then, but we were not at all feeling warm, as a cool breeze was hitting us from the lake waters. Coconut palms were lined all across the banks of the lake as most of them were seen slanting towards the water. A staff was there to help us with the cooking in the kitchen. After moving some distance it was halted and to our surprise, we saw him fishing with a traditional net. And for the first time ever, both I and my brother saw live fishes. Our guide later announced that those were pearl spots and large lake shrimps. Meanwhile, we saw various country boats and most of them were paddled manually. I thought for a moment that, the oarsmen would be healthy and the process would be fruitful during fuel price up.

cheapest kerala tour packages

According to our packages, the caught fishes will be cooked live and served to us. Those tempting aromas from the Kitchen made us hungrier. Within no time, the delicacies were at the table. They were ‘Karimeen Pollichathu’ and ’Konju Roast,’ which had to be savoured along with rice. They were supposed to be eaten with bare hands. Expect mother, all of us had a tough time in the venture. However, the distinctive taste of the spicy recipes made us forget all such difficulties. Once satisfying our tummies, we dozed off for some time. Our tour guide already informed us, the sunset viewed from these parts of the lake will be beautiful. He was right, they were indeed enticing. Witnessing the beauty of the lake, my mom revealed that it was her long lost wish to arrange my destination wedding on the beaches of Kerala! I was dumbstruck for her words. Anyways thank you Dream Holidays for making this trip beautiful and memorable and at the end of the confusing!

The Miraculous Stories that Made Me a Strong Believer of St. Sebastian of Kanjoor

January 11, 2020 admin Leave a comment

Don’t ever think that lying at the bottom of the country; Kerala will remain unpopular among the Indians. More than any other Indian state Kerala has made a special place in the hearts of not only Indians but also of foreigners. I have been always surprised by what may be the reason behind such large popularity? Later I realized that it may be the colourful festivals and unique culture and traditions. And it is true. The state is blessed with 14 districts and each district is known for its dazzling festivals. Irrespective of the religion and creed all the natives together celebrate the occasions in a grand way. Thus make the state different from other places in the country. It is being a long time since my mother was wishing to attend the famous church festival of St. Sebastian at Kanjoor church located in Ernakulum district in Kerala. I just asked her where she heard the name and what the peculiarity of the church is. She asked me whether I remember the day when my cousin (i.e. my mom’s nephew) told me about the church and the miracles happened over there. I said I don’t exactly remember what he said but I know that he is permanently settled in Kanjoor with his family for years. She said every year the St. Sebastian’s festival takes place in the month of January in St. Mary’s Church at Kanjoor. She also said that the saint is very powerful. I was amazed at how he could be powerful when the main deity of the church is Mother Mary. And I also asked her to share any of the stories if she was able to recollect from her memory. Oh! Why not I will definitely she replied (from her words I understood she was desperately waiting for someone to share the stories as she got me she was very happy).

kerala tour packages from delhi

The famous St. Mary’s Church at Kanjoor which is located on the banks of Periyar River was built in the year AD 1001. Even though it is a Christian pilgrim centre the church was constructed in an ancient Hindu archaeological style. It also has copied the designs from Indian, Persian and Portuguese artworks. The sanctum of the church was made out of gold dust, fruit pulp, and rare plant leaves. The mural paintings of the Nativity, the Annunciation, Blessed Virgin Mother, the offering of Lord Abraham, the presentation of the Lord in the Temple and the Ten Commandments to Moses add beauty to the church. Apart from this the church also has a rare collection of paintings, manuscripts, and antiques. I asked her how could she describe the beauty of the church has she ever visited the famous pilgrim. She said during her school days, she visited this mesmerizing church with her siblings. During those days the travel to the church was a little horrible and it took long hours to reach the destination. The journey has now become easy. Nowadays people from various parts of the world visit the splendid pilgrim shrine by availing of tour packages from the famous Dream Holidays travel operators in Kerala. They curate the packages by inculcating the price of air tickets for travellers to visit the Saint of Kanjoor also known as Kanjoor Punyavan.
cheap kerala packages

There were many incidents took place in the history of Kanjoor that highly reflected the miraculous power of the St. Sebastian. Out of the several incidents, only two stories have gained much popularity. She started explaining the story. Years back on the day of the festival the famous ruler of the local kingdom named Sakthan Thampuran made a visit to Puthiyedam Kovilakam in Kanjoor. He was deeply immersed in a conversation with family. At that time the fireworks from the church interrupted his conversation and made the ruler furious. Angry ruler commanded his warriors to throw all the saluting mortars (Kathina Vedi) into the river. The warriors did accordingly. After returning to the mansion the mortars started bursting. The furious ruler scolded his disciples for not obeying his commands. They said they never disobeyed his words and asked him to go near to the river. By seeing the mortars bursting in the river he realized his mistake and went to the church and paid obeisance. He offered Elephant Lamp (Ana Vilakku) made out of from an alloy of five metals (Pancha Loha).

cheap kerala tour packages

Followed to it one more incident also took place. Years later the ruler asked to demolish the gatehouse (padipura) of the church. As soon as the demolishing started the elephant of the palace (Kovilakam) started destroying the gatehouse of the palace. Understanding his mistake the ruler apologized and donated a perpetual lamp (Keda Vilaku) to the church and for meeting the expense of the oil the ruler gave permission to possess the paddy filed of the palace without paying tax.

Another miracle that took place during the colonial period in the 18th century. Tipu Sultan visited Kanjoor and decided to destroy the St. Mary’s church. People over there begged the Tipu Sultan to not to demolish the church. If he attempted to do so the saint will punish him. But he didn’t hear anyone’s words. He even tested the power of the saint. He looked at the statue and asked ‘if the statue has divine powers let it speak to me’. Soon the statute replied ‘won’t you allow me to rest’. Hearing the voice Tipu Sultan left the place without destroying the church. And the incident has been mentioned on the walls in front of the church.

cheap and best kerala tour packages

After hearing the inspiring stories of Saint Sebastian, I now became a great devotee of him. More than my mom it is now me who desperately wants to visit the church. I told her to avail of the cheap and best tour packages to Kerala as soon as possible so that we could visit the church. But she asked me to wait until January. I asked why to wait for January. She told every year on January 19th and 20th the festival of St. Sebastian commences. And on 20th January after 2nd Holy mass, an eagle flies and it is considered as a glorious moment. I told her that I am going to book the packages for January in advance.

5 Romantic Things to do in Kozhikode of Kerala

January 2, 2020 admin Leave a comment

The calm and historic colonial small town of Calicut is not only about its popular ‘Kozhikodan Halwa’ and ‘Dum Biriyani’, but also for its scenic locations and verdant hilly regions. The ancient city and its heart was a major centre for trading spices, tea and other traditional clothing. Besides that, the place is otherwise known for its generous living community. So, these are the natural wonders of the place. Here we are discussing few romantic things to do which may sound off-beat to some. Yet we are now into exploring the place as honeymoon destination rather than a hideaway to satisfy your tummies and relish them wholly.

Below listed could be some of the romantic things to do in Kozhikode of Kerala that can be implemented if you had chosen to honeymoon here.

Stroll through the beaches of Kappad

cheapest honeymoon packages in kerala

It was on the serene beach of Kappad where the first-ever European had set their foot in the land of Kerala. When the Portuguese traveller Vasco da Gama was here for trading spices, you may reach here for your honeymooning and experience the natural aesthetics of the location. They can make a good frame to the honeymoon picture you are about to click along with your partner. Moreover, they are quite different from other beaches of the state as you get to see the large black boulders scattered along its shores washed off by calmer waves. The orderly planted Casuarina trees erected on the long stretch of seashore gives a refreshing new look to this already alluring oceanfront. Hence, when you are at Kappad for a romantic getaway, you may stroll along the beach with your loving partner.

2. Go for a Romantic Cruise Along the Backwaters

Kerala honeymoon packages from delhi

The state of Kerala is already known for its serene backwaters worldwide. However, most of them are of the backwaters of either Allepey or Cochin. You may go for boating once catching the traditional canoe alongside the Kallayi or Elathur River on any sunny day on your Honeymoon. When researched more, you may avail various engaging honeymoon packages that could fulfil your this dream. Houseboat cruises could be the next best alternative for you as a newlywed couples do to voyage through the backwaters of Kozhikode. For the very same purpose, you may also request your partner to enquire and confirm whether any boating services are plying through the historic Canolly Canal and Kalipoika. While sailing you may behold at the real aesthetics of nature alongside the banks of these beautiful water bodies and the beautiful sight of the large varieties of flora and fauna residing at their natural habitat.

3. Click your Honeymoon Picture from Thikotti Lighthouse beach

kerala tour packages with price

The lovely moments between you and your better half spent during the honeymoon can be captured from this picturesque beachside of Thikotti. Moreover, the tourist spot at Velliyamkallu is more popular for a majestic lighthouse that stands as a saviour perched at the top of the beach cliff. Built almost a hundred and fifty years ago, the lighthouse is currently not operating, yet a sizeable number of tourists do visit the site. Not far from the large structure, you could find the remnants of an old shipwreck. So if anyone of you is fond of photography, you are inevitably going to have a great time. Try visiting in either early morning or late evening to capture the best photographs, as you will also be witnessing the lively flying sessions of numerous migratory birds all along with the premises.

4. Picnicking at Kariyathumpara

kerala honeymoon packages with airfare

For a moment, you would get confused whether this bewitching location does exist in the state of Kerala. Travelling around 47 km from the main city, the spectacular sights of Kariyathumpara can never be skipped by any nature lovers. So when you are honeymooning in Kozhikode, spare a single day for picnicking at this beautiful site in Kariyathumpara. Also, on the route to this, you may also stopover at Kakkayam Dam that would inevitably gift you with mesmerizing views. Amid your picnic time, you could have some fun by playing in the pristine waters of Kariyathumpara along with your partner. As they are not much popular to a large number of tourists, the location is not at all polluted. The breathtaking scenery all around cannot resist you from clicking pictures of your partner in the most alluring backdrop you had seen recently.

5. Do some Bird watching at Kadalundi Sanctuary

Kerala Tourism honeymoon packages

Located to the south-western part of Kozhikode district, Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary could be of its kind that welcomes the largest number of migratory bird in the entire state of Kerala. You may readily visit the place with your beloved to this coastal region on your honeymoon, which is an adorable estuary where the Kadalundi River makes confluence with the Arabian Sea. Yet another striking factor of the location is that it has been conserving as a community reserve where the visitors are given the basic concepts of environment conservation. As the birds that are coming to the sanctuary had started from foreign regions, you don’t have to spend extra airfare for watching them. However, the packages that would take you to Kadalundi would be rare; as they can be easily accessible by both train and road you may visit the sanctuary by yourselves. Accompanying your partner, you may catch the beautiful glimpse of trains plying to Kozhikode city and back just above the railway bridge across the estuary. The thick stretches of mangrove forests at Kadalundi are also an adorable sight to relish.

Every newlywed would be longing for a moment to spend along with each other in any sort of circumstance or at any honeymoon destination. It is a calm and good atmosphere around you that creates the perfect setting for you to have a peaceful honeymoon. So to relish a peaceful honeymooning at Kerala, you may book your most appropriate tour package with Dream Holidays who could fulfil your dream of a hassle-free honeymooning at your favourite holiday destination at the most affordable prices. They have the best travel deals that nobody else would provide you.

An Exquisite Honeymoon Trip to Wayanad in Kerala from Delhi

December 18, 2019 admin Leave a comment

We wanted some fresh air! This was one of your basic conditions that we had when the time for choosing our honeymoon destination was fast approaching. Satisfying this very criterion, we shortlisted the common and nearby hill station from Delhi such as Manali, Shimla and Dalhousie. However, we soon left that thought when my wife urged that she had already been to these locations several. Even in the last summer, she was with her friends holidaying in the hills of Kullu. Furthermore, when she was sharing her same travel experiences with me, one point just stroke me. One of her friends is from Kozhikode in Kerala. On their travel, she had no words to express the beautiful experiences she had acquired while holidaying in their nearby hilly district of Wayanad.

kerala tour packages with price

Before this particular instance, when I get to hear about Kerala, the first things that come to my mind are the Kathakali, Idli and Dosa, houseboats and Kalaripayttu. However, when I surfed about the glorious South Indian state more, I realized that they are more than the ‘Idlis and Sambhars’. Truly speaking, I was regretting that I never made myself to know more about or tour Kerala. I was craving to visit Kerala since then. So when I shared this thought with my beloved wife, she was in all praise for my decision. However, she was doubtful whether we have to rely on any direct tour packages to Kerala. Later I saw myself surfing about the private tour package that would take us to the beautiful state of Kerala and book from the best tour company that we could find.

cheapest honeymoon packages in kerala

We set out for our dream honeymoon from the hometown by the last week of October. As there was only a limited number of direct flights from Delhi to the destination (there is no airport in Wayanad!), our tour company booked us a ticket straight to Cochin International Airport and from there to Kannur Airport. Later, I got to know that the latter was the latest and the fourth airport built in the state. When we shared our demands that we were more into adventure, and had chosen this particular destination to catch a glimpse of vast forest cover of Kerala. So they customized our package according to our wishes. They also informed us that even the path leading to Wayanad from Kannur Airport situated in Mattanur is a delight to watch.

cheap kerala packages

Once reaching the airport at Cochin in the afternoon, we had to wait until evening to catch the next flight to Kannur International Airport. In that particular time gap, I and my wife were transformed into our own sweet world. We did not even feel that we had spent the whole of 3 hours just by chatting about our travel ambitions. Then after savouring our delicious traditional Kerala lunch from the Cafeteria there, we were on the venture of catching our next flight to Kannur. Along with us, there were quite many foreign tourists in the gatehouse of the airport. Moreover, we met an American Vlogger, who was on his tour to Kannur. He said that he had already made many travel videos based in Wayanad on his last visit. So he suggested some beautiful destinations where we could have the best holidaying as the loving newlywed couples.

cheap and best kerala tour packages

When we reached the airport at Kannur within 1 and a half hours of flight, we saw the tour guides of the company we had relied on. With our names written in the placard, he was waiting for us in the arrival gate itself and showing that friendly Kerala gesture. He looked polite and welcoming. So within waiting much, he followed him up to the cab that would take us to our dream destination of Wayanad. After moving a few kilometres I saw my already sleeping. She might have got tired of flying and waiting in the airport for such long hours. Just then I was feeling relieved of the fact that we had planned our trip to a new place like Kerala with special honeymoon packages. Without the passing of much time, I too dozed off.

kerala honeymoon packages with airfare

When I woke up after an hour, I saw some signboards indicating that we were travelling in the scenic Malabar Hill Highway. Without much time lag, I was creating a rapport with the guide. His good name was Sumesh and was from Kozhikode. He said that the accommodation for us had been set in the central part of Wayanad. So we were heading to a small town of Manathavady. Since it was already late evening and approaching towards night, we were beginning to feel cold. However, the entire atmosphere and chill were of a different kind here in Wayanad than that of Delhi.

In the very next morning, we were ready to head up to the Kurava Islands which is almost nearby our hotel. The picturesque scenic of the petite rocky terrains amidst the serene Kabani River was rather ravishing. When my beloved wife was playing in the shallow waters, she indeed seemed childlike. We had great fun in Kuruva. Next destination in our bucket list was Chembra Peak. Later, Sumesh too thought that we were heading up to the hills in the most favourable time. When we reached the foothills of Chembra, we realized that he was very accurate. It seemed that the majestic hills were having great fun by hiding behind the clouds. Once reaching halfway through the trek, we witnessed the remarkable heart-shaped pond. The moment when the climate was clear, we clicked our epic honeymoon snap in the backdrop of the romantic pond.

kerala honeymoon packages from delhi

Without getting much late, we descended the peak, as the natural lights were gradually decreasing. In the chilling night, we drove back to our hotel and just fell off to our beds. As we only got to realize, we were indeed exhaustive after the eventful trek. Even then we had a great time in Wayanad along with the aid of Dream Holidays, which was with us all through the journey. As mentioned before, we had our personally customized honeymoon tour packages, when we shared about our dreams of a perfect honeymoon.

An Amazing Trip to Kerala Trees

December 16, 2019 admin Leave a comment

Travellers often love to visit Kerala. The reasons may vary among travellers for visiting the state. Some visits the state to witness the charming beauty. Others visit the place either for business or educational purposes. Whatever may be the reason travellers are always lured by the beauty of the serene nature of Kerala. Many people believe that Kerala got its name due to the presence of coconut trees (also known as ‘Kera’ in the Malayalam language). And is true. People always feel amused by seeing the splendid view of trees oscillating in accordance with the cool air. The state is known for its thickly populated forest trees with coconut trees in abundance. Many people have a myth that a trip to Kerala may be wastage of time. There would be anything apart from many trees and animals. But such myths should be removed from your mind. Kerala is not like the past. It has changed completely. It is one of the most popular tourist and fastest-growing destinations in India. Nearly ten thousand tourists visit this amazing state to enchant its glory as part of their honeymoon, and family travel packages. The amusement parks, national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, bird sanctuaries, hill ranges, plantations of spices, tea and coffee, boating, houseboat rides and many more are the highlighting features that grab the tourists to the state. Availing a tour package to Kerala will never make the travellers disappoint. There many travel agencies that curate packages for not only nature lovers but also for adventure lovers at cheapest rates. The state is also famous for a plethora of enthralling activities such as paragliding, bamboo rafting, boating, trekking, canoeing, kayaking, mountaineering, and so on. However, sitting under a tree and tasting delicious traditional foods will present a marvellous experience to each and every traveller that no five-star hotel could provide. Trees have always become an inevitable part of Malayalees. The state is blessed with different varieties of trees. Let us go through the kinds of trees seen in the state and their uses.

Coconut Tree

cheap and best kerala tour packages

Coconut tree or ‘thengu’ known in the Malayalam language is the state tree of Kerala. The tree is branchless and it is known as ‘Kalpavriksha’. Coconuts, the fruit of the tree is big and oval in shape. The hard shell of coconut comprises of edible material of sweet taste with tasty water. It is protected inside the hard shell which is encircled with thick fibre. Coconut is one of the main ingredients of Keralite foods. Coconuts are used in different forms in the traditional foods of Kerala. Coconut oils are popular not only in South India but across the world. It used for multi-purposes. It is the main ingredient of shampoo, soap, cosmetics, candles, cooking, and so on. The coconut oils are extracted from the dried form of coconut called ‘kopra’. After the extraction of oils, this kopra is given as food to cattle and fowls. The fibre is used for the formation of ropes and mats which are resistant to saltwater. The coconut water is a natural health drink good for dysentery and vomiting. Toddy of coconut is also used as a beverage. The leaves of the trees are used for thatching roofs and trunks are used for bridges. The hardest part of the coconut is used for the preparation of vessels and cups.

2. Golden Shower Tree

cheapest honeymoon packages in kerala

The Golden Shower tree is also known as ‘Kanikkonna’. It is the state flower of Kerala. The tree got its name due to the presence of golden-yellow coloured leaves. The tree gains more importance during the festival of Vishu. A garland made up of golden flowers is adorned on the lord Krishna’s idol on the day of Vishu and it is also considered as the first sight. The tree blooms in the months of April and May. When the flowers bloom it is a treat to the eyes. One would find difficult to identify leaves from the flowers. The tree is also a kind of messenger. It tells the arrival of monsoon. The parts of the tree such as fruit pulp, roots, and barks are also considered for medicinal purposes. Due to the presence of tannins in the barks of trees, it is used for fabric colouring and leather processing.

3. Sandalwood Tree

cheap kerala tour packages

The Sandalwood tree is also known as Chandanam in Malayalam. The tree is famous for it’s cooling and healing properties. The tree consists of purple and black in colour succulent fruits with purple flowers in small dull in bunches. The tree is a solution from the scorching heat, inflammation problems, and excessive sweating. To get rid of the sweating one uses sandalwood in the form of paste, dry powder or mixed with oil and others. The powder of sandalwood is used as a treatment of gonorrhoea. The paste of sandalwood regularly applied to foreheads will increase the level of concentration. It also has the ability to reduce the temperature and headache during fever. It is also a medicine for painful urination problems and inflammation of the bladders. It is one of the prominent ingredients in Hindu rituals. The incense from the sandalwood is used to pacifying the minds.

I hope you have got a clear idea about the trees seen in and around Kerala. The trees are protected as part of the conservation of the earth. Some people export the woods of trees to other states. After reading the above-mentioned information don’t you feel to taste yummy and scrumptious fruits from the tall and thick trees? So what are you waiting for? Buy the Kerala tour packages at affordable prices from the eminent travel operators like Dream Holidays. They always try to inculcate places such as sanctuaries, forest areas with tourist spots in the itineraries of Kerala packages. While on your Kerala trip don’t forget to carry a camera and a notebook to note down the important points about the trees. You can also record the videos or audio of your tour guide while explaining the trees and their uses. If you are planning to visit the state during monsoon don’t forget to carry an umbrella and raincoats. Also, you can accompany your dearest friends to explore the state in an adventurous way.

Top 6 Ecclesiastic Temples in God’s Own Country

November 27, 2019November 27, 2019 admin Leave a comment

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.

Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple

kerala tour packages from delhi

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

kerala tour packages with price

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

cheapest kerala tour packages

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

kerala honeymoon packages

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

honeymoon packages in kerala

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

kerala packages

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’.

5 Prominent Wild Homes in Kerala

November 21, 2019 admin Leave a comment

Kerala is always being home to exotic species of various kinds of birds and animals. The cerulean seas, crystal clear waters, bewitching dusks, coconut-palm fringed trees oscillating in accordance to the cool puff of air, moderate tropical climate, thickly populated forests lands, funnel-shaped valleys blanketed with emerald tea and coffee meadows etc are the few fascinating features which lure nature lovers across the globe to Kerala. Every year thousands of tourists visit the beautiful state with their dear ones only to enchant the mesmerizing glory of Kerala. There may be different reasons for each traveller to put their feet in the coastal land. Some may visit the state to spend quality time with their dear ones others may visit the land for business or education purposes. There another group of people who visit the Malabar region to revitalize themselves in Ayurveda centres.

Kerala tour packages with price

There are many travel operators who organize frequent trips to the state. Some grab travellers with exciting offers. Some formulate a tour package to exotic Kerala at an affordable price and even they are ready to customize the packages on traveller’s request. People often plan a tour to the state with an aim to explore the wondrous collections of fauna and flora. The state is blessed with 16 fascinating national parks where endangered species of birds and animals are protected. You might have a small idea about the serene beauty and hot tourist spots in the state but you might not be aware of the distinguished wildlife sanctuaries in the state. A few prominent national parks are briefly studied below.

Anamudi Shola National Park

Anamudi Shoal Park is located in the Idukki district, Kerala. The amusing national park is spread over 7.5 km square. It was nominated as a World Heritage site by UNESCO world heritage programme. It was declared as a national park in 2003. Since then it has been under the control of Munnar wildlife division and Kerala wildlife forest department. The park assures cent per cent solitude and is popular for its bewildering nature and excellent biodiversity. Unlike other national parks here you can see the endangered and unknown creatures wandering here and there. Travellers can closely examine and learn the typical lifestyle of them by interacting and clicking photographs. As you ascend to the top you can come across most of the hilltop regions being occupied with vegetation. The park consists of 38 kinds of climbers, 60 types of trees and 175 varieties of shrubs and herbs. Travellers can spot jungle cat, wild dogs, leopards, sloth bear, civet cats, Indian Bison, wolves, wild boars, flying squirrels, elephants, Panther, tigers, and more. Don’t think that only wild animals are ruling the park, there a wide collection of birds are also seen here such as 100 types of butterflies and 200 varieties of moths and more than 76 species of rare birds. Travellers can also enjoy the beauty of nature by drenching in Thoovanam waterfalls, Chinnar River and Pambar River located near to the park.

Kerala tour packages with price

Best Time to Visit the Park: Although visitors can visit the park throughout the year the best time to explore the sanctuary is during the months from October to March.

2. Silent Valley National Park

With its green meadows, cool environment, pleasant climate and amazing views of flora and fauna make Silent Valley national unique and distinguished parks in Kerala. The park is spread across 89 square kilometres of land. It is situated in the Kundali Hills in Palakkad. Even though smaller in size what makes the park unique is it’s Sylvan environment, lofty hills and misty peaks and sapphire waters running along. One could find numerous kinds of plants and animals residing inside the park unharmed by the outer world. The park is home to 1000 various kinds of flowering plants, 200 types of liverworts, 108 varieties of orchids and 200 types of algae. The park is sheltered to 22 species of amphibians, 13 species of fishes, 292 species of birds, 31 species of reptiles, 500 species of moths and butterflies. The most commonly seen species are the lion-tailed macaque, Indian Pangolin (Scaly anteater), Nilgiri Langur, elephant, sambar, Flying Squirrel, Stripe-necked Mongoose, Porcupine, wild pig, Barking Deer, panther, Otter, Sloth Bear, Mouse Deer, tiger, Small Indian Civet, Fishing Cat, Common Palm Civet and gaur. One could quench their thirst by drinking pure crystal water from Kunthi River passing through the region after descending from the Nilgiri hills. The Silent Valley National Park is also famously known as ‘Sairandhrivanam‘. It is so-called because the place where the park is residing was once considered as hiding abode of Sairandhiri, the secret identity undertaken by Draupadi, the wife of Pandavas from their cruel cousins (Kauravas). The Kunthi river is named after the mother of Pandavas. The entry fee to the park is INR 50 and for guide is INR 150.

Kerala honeymoon packages

Best Time to Visit the Park: The ideal time to visit the Silent Valley National Park is from December to April.

3. Eravikulam National Park

Eravikulam National Park is also known as Rajamalai Wildlife sanctuary is termed as a world heritage site by UNESCO. It takes hardly 45 – minute drive from Munnar to reach the park. In 1978 it was declared as a national park. It is spread over 97 sq km in the Kannan Devan hills. The park is popular for protecting the endangered mountain goat known as Nilgiri Tahr. Along with it is also shelter to Elephant, leopard, Nilgiri langur, Indian bison, Nilgiri marten, lion-tailed macaque, Atlas moth (largest in the world), small-clawed otter and a rare tiger or leopard are the few of the main animal species that can be seen here. Next to the park, one could see Neelakurunji flowers which bloom once in 12 years.

Kerala Honeymoon Packages from Delhi

The park offers numerous activities to its visitors. They are as follows.

Tea Museum: A good portion of the park is occupied by the green meadows of tea. Adjacent to the tea plantations one could see a tea museum which has to share many tales related to the construction of the museums and types of machinery and equipment used then and now the struggles faced by the workers in initial days and so on. By visiting the museum’s travellers will get a clear picture of the ancient days.

Rajamala: Rajamala is the prominent tourist hub of Eravikulam National Park where travellers can view the famous Nilgiri Tahr. Except in the months of February and March, tourists can visit Rajamala at any time. While visiting Rajamala one could enchant the beauty of Kurinji and Shola grassland ecosystem. The park is a paradise for shopaholics as it has restaurants, eco shops and an amenity centre to buy basic items of requirements.

Visiting time: 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM

Entry Fee: INR 90 (Adult), INR 65 (Children), INR 360 (Foreigner);

Reservation fee: INR 50

Lakkom Water Falls: The cascading and marvellous Lakkom Water Falls originates from the Evarikulam Park and flows to river Pambar, the east-flowing river in Kerala. The milky water descending from the crevices of the hills offers stunning experiences to each traveller. The waterfall is located in between Munnar and Marayoor route and there also lies an eco- shop cafeteria and refreshing centre to help the visitors.

Entry Fee: INR 20 per visitor.

Lakkom Log House: Very adjacent to Lakkom waterfalls is the log house where travellers can spend quality time with their dear ones without any hustle-bustle of the outer world. Travellers can avail the accommodation if they report the office before 3 PM to the office. Overnight stay in the log house will definitely provide remarkable experience especially to honeymoon couples.

Rate: INR 3000 for two Indians; Additional person: INR 1000

Marayoor Sandal Division: Marayoor Sandal Forest Division is the only place in the state where travellers could find a large natural population of sandal trees. Strolling down through the forest will definitely help you to learn more about the trees and its habitat.
Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary: The Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the Western Ghats in Kerala. This region is richly populated with a wide range of indigenous flora and fauna. The sanctuary houses myriad types of medicinal plants, and its animal species such as grizzled giant squirrel, wild elephant, gaur, tufted grey langur, crocodile, spotted deer, star tortoise, slender loris, tiger, leopard and many birds.

Best Time to Visit Eravikulam National Park: September to November and from April to June is the ideal time to visit Eravikulam National Park.

4. Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary

Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary is the second largest wildlife sanctuary in Wayanad. It is home to large varieties of wild animals. It is a part of the Nilgiri Bioreserve. The sanctuary was established in 1973, it is an amalgamation of semi-evergreen, dry deciduous forest and moist. The sanctuary is proud to say that it has declared as Project elephant site. As it is situated in the dense forests one could spot various kinds of animals like Panthers, civet cats, jungle cats, Indian Bison, tigers, elephants, deer, monkey, wild dogs and bears. With the scenic landscape and the excellent wildlife, the sanctuary lures wildlife and photographers enthusiasts. With Wayanad’s pleasant climate, a combination of bison, civets, wild dogs, monitor lizards, monkeys, varieties of snakes and elephants are seen widely in the sanctuary. Blessed with avifauna, the sanctuary is not only famous for owls, peacocks, fowls, and cuckoos but also for red-head vultures and white ramped-vultures. Unfortunately, these vultures are termed as endangered because they are used to kill to develop an anti-inflammatory drug called diclofenac.

Entry Fee: The entry fare to the Muthanga wildlife sanctuary is very cheap. Indian adults will have to pay INR 10 and children below 12 and students with valid ID card have to pay only INR 5, while foreigners are requested to pay INR 100.

5. Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary

The Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the Western Ghats in Idukki District. It is flourished over an area of 90.44 km². The sanctuary is abundantly blessed with a wide range of exotic species flora and fauna which makes it a stunning tourist destination. It is a shelter to a wide range of medicinal plants. It’s animal family comprises of species such as wild elephant, slender loris, tufted grey langur, gaur, crocodile, spotted deer, grizzled giant squirrel, tiger, leopard and many birds. The sanctuary is completely under the control of the government and hence travellers can enjoy the natural habitat without any disturbances. Small kind of trekking is well appreciated by the authorities. Deciduous forests are seen in large number over here. Chinnar wildlife sanctuary is also termed as world heritage site along with the Western Ghats and Anamalai. The other attractions of the park are the few famous peaks such as Nanadala Malai, Vellaikal Malai, Viriyoottu Malai, Kottakombu Malai and Kumarikkal Mala peak. The sanctuary receives water from Chinnar and Pambar rivers. It is also home to Thoovanam waterfalls. Travellers can also interact with 11 tribal settlements inside the sanctuary. Due to its unique topography and amazing varieties of flora and fauna the sanctuary is termed as a biodiversity hotspot. It is a paradise for nature and wildlife lovers. The sanctuary has a unique and spectacular facility for its visitors – treehouse stays. Treehouses are perfect stay home for nature lovers. Travellers can rent the treehouses for an overnight stay and witness the bewildering sunset and sunrise. The melodious chirp of birds will wake you in the morning. Overall the experience will be really awesome.

cheapest kerala tour packages

Don’t think these national parks are exclusively meant for school children or families. Even newlywed couples are visiting these parks to enjoy the awe-inspiring beauty of the serene nature. These parks not only shelter various species of birds and animals but also turn out to be the perfect backdrop for romantic photos of honeymoon couples. As Kerala is proudly known as ‘Garden of Eden’, honeymooners avail tour packages at cheapest rates from travel operators like Dream Holidays in the state. Hope the above-mentioned articles might have helped you to enlighten your minds the need to preserve these species and obey the instructions issued by the concerned authorities.