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Some intriguing facts related to Chavittu Nadakam- the ancient art form of Kerala

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Could anyone tell which is the first image that runs into your mind when you hear the name Kerala for the first time? I think it would be the breathtaking hill stations enveloped in mist and fog. The green carpets of tea, coffee and spice plantations add beauty to the deep funnel-shaped valleys situated at an average altitude form the surface. Or is it the enormous collection of various types of fauna and flora. It would be hard for anyone to accurately tell the specific factor that lures thousands of thousands of travellers from various parts of the world. The calm ambience and picture-perfect landscapes always surpass the fascinating natural resources abundantly bestowed by the almighty to the only state called Kerala situated on the bottom sector of the democratic country, India. Describing the marvellous ambiguity of serene Kerala in a single essay would be a little tedious job. Just as the natural resources captivate travellers to purchase the tour packages at cheap prices for their family to Kerala. In the same way, the ancient and undistinguished art forms also grab people not only from foreign countries but also from neighbouring cities such as Chennai, Bangalore and Mumbai. Out of the many art forms, many dance and music of olden days are unfortunately vanishing form the state. The unawareness of the importance of art forms, ignorance of protecting the ancient traditions played a significant role in the disappearance of the mind-blowing art forms. Chavittu Nadakam one of the outstanding art form of Kerala once attracted many national and international tourist to marvel their hearts. The typical dance steps and the unique tone make Chavittu Nadakam a fabulous art form in the state. To know more about it fascinating features about Chavittu Nadakam scroll down the following paragraphs and absorb the valuable facts related to it.

Some unknown facts about the ancient Christian art form, Chavittu Nadakam

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Just like every religion, even the Christians have a unique art form called Chavittu Nadakam. There would be no wrong if one says that ancient art forms especially Chavittu Nadakam gave a new identity to Christianity in Kerala. In colloquial language ‘Chavittu’ means a stamp or huge steps and ‘nadakam’ means drama. Hence Chavittu nadakam means a drama where artists stamp the floor according to the musical beats. There is no proper when and where did the Chavittu Nadakam originate. Some say that during the 16th century a few traders from Portuguese arrive in Kerala and found that the Hindu religion had their own art form called Kathakali. It played a vital role in grabbing many people to their community. Therefore the Portuguese traders together with some local people gave birth to the eccentric and fabulous art form called Chavittu Nadakam. Some say that even before the arrival of European traders the Christians of Kerala practised Chavittu Nadakam. But to them, historians have to say a few steps of the drama resembles the European opera.

 Chavittu Nadakam not only concentrates to Biblical stories but also to…

The amusing composition of dance and song called Chavittu Nadakam mainly portrays the famous stories from the holy book the Bible such as the popular fights between David and Goliath, and so on. Along with it they also inculcate some well-renowned war stories of those times such as the war between Alexander the great and David, Charles the great and many more. The early stages of the drama the artisans mainly focused on the themes such as adventure stories and incidents from the spiritual books. But in the following centuries, they started to emphasize the stories such as Komala Chandrika, Njanasundhari, Karlsman, Sathyapalan and Anjelica. The songs used in the drama are a combination of two languages namely Malayalam and Tamil and sung by the performers itself.

The exquisite attires used for the gorgeous drama attracts many art lovers

Normally the Chavittu Nadakam is performed on the open stages but on rare occasions, it is played in the interior parts of the church. The artisans perform the drama on the wooden planks and when they performers stamps on it; it creates a huge sound and hence the drama was baptised as Chavittu Nadakam in colloquial language. The glittering attires were once imported from the European countries resembled the royal kings and queens of those nations. Along with royal costumes they performers also use eye-catching ornaments.

Kerala Chavittu Nataka Academy – the home of Chavittu Nadakam

Chavittu Nadakam is mainly practised in the southern regions of Kerala especially Thrissur, Ernakulum, Kollam, Alleppey and so on. In order to protect the marvellous art form, Chavittu Nadakam is widely practised and trained in the Kerala Chavittu Nataka Academy. It was established in the year 2005 and trains hundreds of art lovers. It is the perfect place to learn the various aspects of the Chavittu Nadakam. Many art enthusiast flocks to the academy to learn its various factors by purchasing the tour packages from the prominent travel operators. As part of conserving the ancient art form the state government of Kerala included in the school and college youth festival. Day by day our world is changing and many things such as ceremonies and different types of rituals and functions are also being altered. The rituals and functions which prolonged for several days have now been cut short into one or two days. Similarly, Chavittu Nadakam has also been altered into an art form of 2 to 3 hours. Initially, the stage was occupied with more than 100 participants and now been limited to nearly 75 members.

Witnessing the ancient art forms will help you to study the unique culture and traditions of the particular region in depth. To learn more about the Chavittu Nadakam many travel enthusiast from various corners of the world tour to Kerala by availing of family tour packages from Gogeo Holidays. They are one of the leading travel planners in the state. They draft the packages by inculcating fabulous tourist destinations of Kerala. You can buy the cheapest packages from them either through offline or online mode. To clarify all your doubts regarding the packages contact their customer support team without any hesitation.

Whichever the season be; Madayipara always shines with bright varied colours

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There would be no one who does not like to inhale the aroma of the beautiful flowers. Watching the blooming of varied coloured flowers in the vast area of land will definitely soothe your tired souls and revitalize your mind. There was a time when the majority of the land in the nation was occupied with various types of trees and flowering plants. The aromatic smell and mind-blowing beauty of the flowers attract the birds from different locations and enhance their pollination in a good manner. Such scenic activities really added charm to the untouched beauty of nature. Words are insufficient to express the ambiguity of nature and also its stunning varied activities. Most of the people who feel to take a short break from their busy schedules must definitely choose the most astonishing and abundantly blessed Madayipara situated in Kannur district of Kerala. Hundreds of flower enthusiast and nature lovers with their family gush to the captivating tourist destination with their dear ones by availing of tour packages at cheap prices. It would be hard for any environmentalist to describe the scintillating beauty of Madayipara in mere words. Hence stroll down the following paragraphs and collect the valuable information from the following paragraphs.

Madayipara

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Whether it is small or large there would be no one who hasn’t seen garden at least once in their whole lifetime. But has anyone ever visited a floral area where its colour changes according to the season? If not, avail of tour packages from prominent travel operators and visit the stupendous Madayipara and enjoy its charming beauty. The most popular flat hillock, Madayipara situated in the lush green area of the northern district of Kerala, called Kannur, grabs travellers from different parts of the world. Like any other destination, it would be hard for any traveller operator to tell the exquisite time to visit the marvellous destination. During the summer the auspicious land will be decorated with bright golden grasses that reach up to the knee length. Followed to summer the monsoon will be dotted with lush green shades of awe-inspiring leaves. The outstanding region will be painted with crimson red during the chilly autumn and it will bloom with a compilation of sapphire, white and bright yellow flowers in spring. Famously known as the ‘land of flowers’ Madayipara is also renowned as a perfect foot hillock of the most popular Western Ghats. The captivating tourist destination is embodied with 300 species of flowering plants and 150 types of birds. Along with these natural wonders, you can also spot the insect-eating plants, semi-aquatic plants and aquatic plants. According to the geographical features the vast land could be categorised with wet phase and dry phase of grasslands. Besides the flowering plants, you can also fill your digital camera’s memory with alluring images of cashew plantations. Apart from the fabulous flowers and serene nature, Madyipara is also famous for some outstanding features.

 Some noteworthy attractions of Madayipara

Sprawled in an area of 700 acres Madayipara is also famous for historical events. To escape from the invasion of foreign rules a strong fort was built by the Vallabha King belonging to Kolothu dynasty. Without understanding its historical prominence the fort was destroyed. But its ruins will surely take you to the ancient pages of history. Apart from the ‘land of flowers’ the region is also known as Malik Ibn Dinar Mosque. The famous pilgrim centre was constructed by the popular Muslim preacher called Malik Ibn Dinar. Hundreds of devotees from various regions arrive at the third largest mosque of Kerala to offer their prayers and seek god’s blessings. The region is also well-renowned for sheltering the temple dedicated to goddess Kali called Madayikavu and Vadakunnu temple with presiding deity of Lord Shiva. The 10-day long temple festival of Madayikkavu temple steals thousands of hearts of travellers. While traversing the awe-inspiring lanes of the Madayipara you will come across of another historic instance called ‘Jew’s pond’. Even though it was constructed during 605 BCE and 490 CE the water from the hand-held shaped pond quenches the thirst of not only the local residents but also the countless tourists who flock to the region during scorching summer days. When you get deeply immersed in the interactive conversation with local communities they will rewind your minds to the olden days. During ancient times, Madayipara was an administrative centre for the Ezhimala kings. The flat hillock several times acted as a platform for many coronation ceremonies with watchtowers on 4 different locations. Climbing the zigzag stairs of the watchtower will offer you to the splendid panoramic view of the lush green surroundings.

 How to reach Madayipara?

To enjoy the emerald beauty of the countryside purchase the train tickets to the nearest railway station, Pazhyangadi railway station and hire private or public transport services to Madayipara. The nearest airport to the captivating tourist destination is Calicut International Airport and Kannur International airport. From the airport, you can hire private taxis at affordable rates. To enjoy the majestic beauty of Madayipara popularly called as ‘tulips of the garden’, do not forget to carry binoculars and high-resolution camera with you.

 To know more about the fascinating features of the luring destination, Madayipara avail of tour packages at reasonable rates from GoGeo Holidays in Kerala. They provide the services by including all modern amenities to you and your family. They will accommodate you in one of the classy hotels. As they give prime importance to the customer’s opinion, they are ready to customise the packages. To make your trip into a remarkable one they will add some sort of adventure events and also fun games. To clarify your queries regarding the tour services contact their customer support team working 24 X 7. Or you can also send messages either through WhatsApp or email. To avoid the last moment rush garb the packages as soon as possible either through online or offline mode. So, hurry up.

Things Nobody had told you about Kalpathy Ratholsavam of Palakkad in Kerala

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Celebrating the grandeur of a festival is very much linked with the traditions of the enchanting state of Kerala. So is the Kalpathy Ratholsavam organised every year in the month of November in the beautiful small village of Kalpathy in Palakkad. Yet they are far more different from the traditional temple festivals with the procession of half a dozen well-adorned elephants. Even if you are not an admirer of the neighbouring state, Tamil Nadu’s typical temple festivals that are usually followed, you will inevitably feel astounded of its unique features. Given below are the things you never knew about Kalpathy Ratholsavam of Palakkad in Kerala.

The prominent temple associated with the Chariot festival was built around 7 centuries ago

Visalakshmi Sametha and Sri Vishwanatha Swamy Temples are believed to be built in 1425 AD that is being regarded as the major spot where the entire festival is conducted. You should not expect a huge architectural structure made of ancient stone with those intricate carvings in them, as they are way much smaller than its counterparts in the south of India. Yet, you could catch a glimpse of the major deity, Lord Shiva at its very interiors of the shrine. The idol placed here is assumed to be brought from Kaashi.

There is an old story that describes the naming of the village as Dakshin Kashi

The reason behind such a sobriquet for this temple is concerned with a story that date backs to several centuries back. An old Brahmin lady who had been on a pilgrimage to Kaashi had requested the then erstwhile ruler Itikombi Achan to build a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva after returning from Kaashi. Furthermore, she had also brought an idol along with her. She wanted this to happen so badly, as she had even gifted some gold to the ruler. Henceforth, due to all these reasons, the entire village was later addressed as Dakshin Kaashi or ‘Half of Kaashi.’

The chariots are pulled over by about thousands of devotees

As cited earlier, while you are witnessing the magnificent festivity you are certainly going to be awestruck by the sight of hundreds of people pulling the huge rathams, besides the thousand others. Moreover, the origin of such a custom dates back to several years ago and no one exactly knows since when the rituals are being followed so here in this part of Kerala. Anyhow, for these 10 days long festivities, you could look over by those streets when the devotees are seen chanting the Vedic prayers and moving together.

Centuries-old temples are situated on the banks of River Nila

With reference to the old story stated here, it was the wish of the Brahmin lady to build a temple on the banks of River Nila, otherwise known as Bharathapuzha. The significant temple to Lord Shiva and Parvathi are most adjacent to them and the particular spot had been deemed as a crucial point of this grand procession. So while you are visiting Kalpathy Ratholsavam in your tour packages never skip to reach up to them during the festival season along with your family.

On auspicious days, you could witness more number of chariots

Even though the major part of the festivities are centred around the Shiva temple, many more chariots dedicated to Lord Ganesha, Lord Subramaniyam and others can be seen approaching towards and back the major temple. However, you could find the extra chariots decorated with huge tomb-like structures and garlands only on the final days of the ten-day-long festival. Mostly, there would be around 6 chariots that are brought from Viswanathaswamy Temple, Maha Ganapathy Temple of Chathapuram, Manthakkara Maha Ganapathy Temple and Lakshminarayana Perumal Temple of Old Kalpathy.

Each of the chariots is dedicated to different Hindu gods

The chariots or the rathams as they are called regionally are mad to make large processions alongside the ancient streets of Kalpathy. Furthermore, you would already know of the fact that there are about a million Hindu gods. So from the few of the other temples located nearby the major Shiva temple, that is dedicated to different gods will set up each of the chariots. Therefore, in the festival, along hundreds of devotees, these multiple rathoms will also be proceeding. In its appearance, each of them will be having a nuanced alteration.

Kalpathy is the only heritage village of Kerala

The basic setting of this old village had offered such a status to it, as each household are arranged in such a way one is connected to another. These homes in the region are known as ‘Agrahaarams,’ which do possess sloped roofs and their front areas will always be decorated with ‘Koolams.’ Moreover, the people who are dwelling in these unique settlements were emigrated from the neighbouring state and largely follow their native traditions.

Population residing in the hamlet are Tamil Brahmin settlers

These early settlers with Tamil origin had migrated to Kerala from their homeland and had started living in Kalpathy since 12 century. Such a step could be because the standard of living here in Kerala could have been cheap, rather than supporting the huge families in an expensive place. Also, in most common cases, the people residing in neighbouring households would most probably be an extended part of a single-family.

As mentioned earlier, festivals celebrated in the state of Kerala are just too many, while the most popular being the Onam. The very essence of these engaging festivities could be experienced only when you are witnessing them in real. So why are you waiting for?? Plan your very next vacation to this amazing land once contact the popular tour operator Gogeo Holidays. They have got some exciting tour packages for you to check out, as they are covering the most prominent travel destinations of the state including Munnar, Alappuzha, Wayanad, Varkala, Gavi, Kochi, Vagamon and Thekkady. You could avail their services at extremely lower prices.

7 Delightful Things You Could Look Out for at E3 Theme Park of Wayanad in Kerala

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Wayanad is already blessed with nature, whether it is pristine rivers, verdant hills, dense forests and mesmerising waterfalls. To this fascinating list is added the recently launched environment-friendly park known as E3 Theme Park, which is Wayanad, near Neelome. Also, the engaging family tourist spot can be reached from a 20 km drive from Manathavadi. The delightful things that are offered to you in this eco-friendly park are very diverse and fascinating as they could engage you for an entire day. Even the very concept behind the three ‘E’s that this nature park portrays are Environment, Entertainment and Education. The very approach in which the entire park is set up is also commendable, as they are very much in sync with the dignified surroundings and is certainly built without harming the environment. Given below are the delightful things you could look out for at E3 Park Theme Park of Wayanad in Kerala.

Tribal Village

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This concept is nothing new to a tourist destination like that of Wayanad, which has got a sizeable number of tribal populations. However, at this portion of the park, you could get to watch a live performance of tribal dance and if you wish to try a step along with them, you may do so. The dancers will be seen performing in a primitive kind of hut built in the premises of the park. Adjacent to them has located an art gallery where you could watch the ancient household equipment made from bamboos and woods. Nearby them is yet another place known as Herbal Museum that should not be missed. Pot making in the traditional charkas is yet another interesting thing to do here.

 Action Zone

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While sightseeing in this park, you are getting that wonderful opportunity to burn out some calories that you could have gained by consuming those traditional Kerala meals. At this place, various indoor activities are being set up, such as net cricket, mini basketball and many more. Your entire family can have so much fun here, and it is not only the kids. Indulging in all such fascinating things at such a cheap price would truly be economical, even the engaging 12D shows. Henceforth, including E3 Theme Park in your tour packages would turn out to be one of the best decisions that you would ever take on this vacation.

Aviary

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It’s a happy time for all the bird lovers out there! Macaques, parakeets and Gala cockatoos will be spotted to be flying around freely in these large enclosed spaces. And you could have a walk alongside the wooden walkway built from one end to another. You may feed these spectacular birds and capture that in photos. Some of you might be wondering whether you are vacationing in either Thailand or Malaysia, where these sorts of aviaries are a popular crowd puller. However, this particular aviary in Wayanad could is only of its kinds in the entire state.

 Dino World

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While trekking through the Dino World, you would feel like this is straight out of a scene in the popular Jurassic Park movie serious. Moving statues in the shape of dinosaurs are installed most suitably in the wild spaces of the park. Only if you are looking at them closely, you will be able to figure it out that they are artificial creatures, as they even make spooky sounds when they are moving. Visitors could touch and take photos just beside these live looking statues that even close and open their eyes. Never skip getting into the Fossil Hunting museum of this Dino World.

Moss Garden

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The very first thing that could catch your attention would be adorable fountains set up in the garden. When you are continuing your nature walk, you would meet up to various unique breeds of plants and flowers grown here in the Park. If you are wishing to know more about them scientifically, you may enquire about them with the staffs working there, they would be very pleased to explain it to you. In addition to that, there is even a life-like statue of an elephant on the side of a lake, on the top of which are grown few shrubs. Furthermore, walking in the shelters of large trees could refresh you and could tempt to live your lives more efficiently, by being much closer to nature.

Boating

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Even though the water body present within the premises of the E3 Park is not that vast as its popular counterpart in Pookode, a peddle-boat riding across the large pond will really be worth it. Green spaces are the things that you are going to find all across you. In addition to that, some unique trees are grown on its banks, which can only be found in these regions of Wayanad. At the end of this artificial lake is built an artificial waterfall. If you have got tired by doing all these activities, you may energize yourselves by eating out some mouth-watery dishes at the restaurants functioning here.

Adventure Zone

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The things that you find here are indeed going to make your adrenaline rush. At this zone, you will be introduced to some thrilling activities such as Zip-lining, Archery, Rifle Shooting, Rock climbing, magnetic fall and Rappelling. Also, the zip-ling made available to the tourists visiting here are around 300m long, so you may catch a glimpse of the dense vegetation and greenery beneath you. Adventure enthusiasts are going to have a great time here by trying out all these by sparing such a lower price. Moreover, places like them are quite rare in Kerala. So you are not supposed to miss them even though you are visiting along with your family.

Location: Vellamunda, Vanjode Post, Neelome, Wayanad, Kerala – 670731.

Opening Hours: 9.30 am to 5.00 pm

Entry Tickets: Rs.550 for adults and Rs. 450 for children and senior citizens

 Engaging places like these that are set up with the concept of Responsible Tourism are quite many in touristy regions of Wayanad in Kerala. If you are travelling to them along with your family, you are going to witness and experience yet another side of nature that can be found nowhere else other than the enchanting state of Kerala. So while you are planning to travel to these splendid locations, never skip making a call to Gogeo Holidays. The popular tour operator had created diverse tour packages on which you could sojourn to various locations most meaningfully, yet enjoyably. They will let you know about the preferable tourist places, accommodations facilities and notably an appropriate travel deal based on your preferences. To book them you may ring up or chat with them online.

7 Engaging Things to Do in Alappuzha of Kerala Other than Boating

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Alappuzha, the tourist capital of Kerala is seldom defined along with backwaters and the boating along with them. Moreover, if you had already been to this alluring destination, very deservingly called the Venice of the East, you would probably have regarded of them only as a backwater destination and everything is centred on them. However, there is a lot more to be explored at Alappuzha, even though, a boat cruise through its serene backwaters is quite irresistible to the tourists plying to the place. Here, in this blog, you are to get acquainted with the place more as a local and will avail certain holidaying ideas to explore them more than its backwaters. The following could be the engaging things to do in Alappuzha other than boating.

Admire nature’s beauty at Mararikulam beach

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 With these many backwaters in the outskirt of Alappuzha, you could get to predict the existence of beach destinations in the proximity. And you had been almost accurate with your predictions as you could get to drop into a beachside without travelling much from the backwaters. One such noteworthy destination could be the Mararikulam beach. The white sandy beach lined up with numerous coconut palms is already a refreshing sight to look at. Moreover, this less crowded beachside can be easily accessed on the way to Kochi from Alappuzha town.

Dine at any Rooftop Restaurant

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For this interesting thing to do, you have to take a break from the programmes enlisted in your tour packages and arrange for a dinner at a rooftop restaurant.  They are already a loveable activity to be engaged in even if you are a family or a couple. Metropolitans such as Mumbai and Chennai have got numerable options to choose from. However, the one that makes such activity amazing here in Kerala is the scenic views in the backdrop. The lights illuminated from different sources get reflected on the backwaters providing a mesmerizing view and also savouring some unique dishes.

Set out for a road to Ernakulum from Alappuzha

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Having a cool straight national highway traversing through these two important districts, you could plan for a road trip from Alappuzha where you could get to get introduced to the cultures and traditions followed in these places. Yet another boon of this particular travel route is that you could get to witness the beautiful sight of several gorgeous water bodies and the bridges built across them. And on other parts, either side of the roads will be grown with large shady trees. So you are experiencing lush greenery of Kerala for which they are known for. Furthermore, it would be joyous to watch those unique products produced from both the regions sold by the streets.

Take your kids to Vijaya Park

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They are yet another point adjacent to the city centres where the younger ones of your family could entertain themselves and have fun. Several interesting rides had been installed in the premises of the park, including toy train. Just like every significant point of Alappuzha are positioned close to any sort of water bodies, the Vijaya Park can also be reached by walking a few a distances from the major starting point of a waterway. So you may witness the aesthetic side of this region while your kids are playing in the park.

Wander around the downtown of Alleppey

People had been settling down on the coastal towns of Alleppey ever since they had got to realise the potential of bustling waterways and the cheap mode of transport across them. These towns had flourished to become happening commercial hubs within no time. Most of the shops, eateries and other such places had managed to remain in the same shape for many years and can still be found to be operating in the banks of those bustling canals.  So when you are holidaying in Alappuzha, never skip strolling through the ancient streets. You could also get to meet many friendly locals there to help you if you had lost your way.

Savour some mouth-watering spicy delicacies

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Once you had reached to these southern parts of Central Kerala, returning to your native without tasting those spicy Kerala fish curries would be a dumb thing to do. Each of the recipes served to your plates will be having the flavours that are different from one another. The chefs of Alappuzha are experts in cooking those mouth-watering seafood cuisines, so the non-vegetarians are going to have their day when holidaying in these regions. To savour them, you always do not have to order from those five-starred hotels, instead, you may pull over your vehicles in the restaurants that you see notice straight from the roads are going to serve you the traditional foods containing the real flavours and order the same.

Get yourself refreshed at Ayurveda spas

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The age-old curing methods of Ayurveda had been synonyms with the healthcare system of Kerala. Alappuzha does host a lot of Ayurveda spa centres in not only the touristy regions but also in other places. The most popular among them could be the panchakarma centre, to which even people from all across the state would visit. Getting yourself treated with their medicated herbs, oil, milk and other such natural products would be very refreshing for you. It would make both your body and soul prepared for your next trip. So it would become a mandatory thing to do while you are vacationing in these parts of Kerala. Lately, the prominence of such spa centres had also been prospering in other major cities of the country like Chennai.

Now that you have got various ideas of holidaying here in the land of backwaters other than boating, you and your family could also get engaged in those enjoyable experiences that are exclusive to Alappuzha. We bet that you could reminiscence the family vacations spent at this part of God’s Own Country forever with the memories acquired from each of the trips here.

Gogeo Holidays arranges exciting trips to various parts of the state that various other noted tour operators had missed to include in their travel itinerary.  Moreover, they are always ready to pay heed to your suggestions and offer the provision to customize their already set tour packages. So what are you waiting for? book your travel deals today and head to the location with your family on your very next vacation.

Vellikkeel: A Lesser-Known Eco-Tourism Centre of Kannur in Kerala

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Spending a day out with your family could bring you happy, no matter whichever place you are a, whether it is your home or a beautiful family picnic spot. Nevertheless, if the chosen spot for your family picnic is Vellikkeel in Kannur, the things you are going to experience would something exceptional. The picnic spot is an Eco-Tourism centre that has been set up at the marshy areas at the base of a small hill by the Tourism Department of Kerala. Vellikkeel is situated around 17 km distances from the Kannur, away from the hustles and bustles of everyday stressful life. In addition to that, in this recently renovated Eco-tourism centre, the visitors could get engaged in numerous exciting activities. All characteristics make the perfect ingredients for labelling Vellikkeel as a full-fledged family tourist spot.

Scenic views around

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The small hills bordering the water bodies is a common sight when are travelling to the coastal regions of Northern Kerala.  Vellikkeel is situated at one such scenic location, where there are both the marshy areas meant for the purpose of rice cultivation and small hills surrounding them at a distance. You could also get to spot several fishermen folks catching fish in the most traditional methods.

 So when you are visiting eco-tourism park along with your family, you could adore the natural beauty of this lesser-known destination. Even being at such tranquil destinations could rejuvenate you. Henceforth, Eco-tourism Park deserves to be visited once booking any reliable tour packages. Furthermore, the path that takes your family to the Vellikkeel Park is also brimming with lush greenery on either side of the road and those occasional small bridges across the offshoots of major rivers flowing through these regions of Kannur.

Peddling amid the Mangrove creeks

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Boating across the mangrove creeks spread on a larger part of its area is one of the most highlighting factors made available for the tourists visiting the park. Your family could also go paddling on these water bodies to experience that rustic beauty of these coastal hamlets. When approaching closer to the mangrove vegetation, you could even touch the rooted outside the surface waters. The mangroves found in some parts of Vellikkeel are fruit-bearing. Like the mangrove vegetation grown at different locations of Kannur. Astonishingly, the district is known for its least disturbed mangrove covers and also being the largest in the state.

Moreover, the sailing would also be enjoyable and create excitement for the kids in your family. You could catch a glimpse of varied sort of migratory birds flying across you and perched at the brims of those narrow village paths. Hence the location can be cited as an ecologically significant location. Even otherwise, the chirping of birds could be only sounds that are going to break the silence of the picturesque location.

Savouring those mouth-water dishes

Tourists who are coming to the Ecotourism park could also relish traditional recipes of Kerala at the eatery set up in its premises. They would serve you with all sorts of seafood and mouth-watering recipes cooked from the fish caught from the lake. Each member of your family may order for their favourite seafood cuisine, which they would love to eat on this one-day trip. So there is nothing wrong in making some corrections in your tour packages, as the food menu ranges from snack called Uruliyappam to the spicy non-vegetarian dishes such as traditional fish curry, puttu (yet another steam cooked rice cake) flavoured with crabs and squids. You may have them by sitting on those specially arranged seating by watching the beauty of the place. This is going to satisfy both your tummies and your soul. In addition to that, the aroma emerging out from the food court serving the local dishes would make you hungry, just like the food streets adjacent to the Marina beach in Chennai.

Nature-walk amid the lakeside

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Further, the later parts of the day can be spent at beautifully paved walkways on the banks of this tranquil lake, by taking a nature walk. Your entire family will feel refreshed after venturing out for such a relaxing evening stroll. Once proceeding to some distances, the views of the silent rivers flowing in these virgin lands of Kerala would be seen right in front of you. The first one that you notice flowing elegantly below the bridges is the Vellikkal River. Then at some points, they will be merging with Pazhayangadi River and finally to the Vallapatanam river.  That major river and a crucial source of drinking water for the entire Kannur district join the Arabian Sea near Azhikkal Ferry at Azhikode.

In the walks, you will inevitably rush into the locals indulged in fishing by plying in the traditional country boats. Shrimps, crabs and other small fishes are the most common catches for them. If you are interested in those activities, you may readily enquire them about their fishing and other cultivation methods. Adorable benches and long swings where 2 or 3 people can sit together are installed at the banks of the lake for the visitors to take rest. Later the day can be ended on a good note by watching a pleasurable sunset from these walkways. Unlike the horizon spotted at the sea, where you could gaze the sun getting veiled very gracefully behind the mangrove bushes that are going to look darker in the twilight.

 The above-described eco-tourism centre is one such beautiful destination that can be preferred by families for a day out, also if their liking is on boating and relishing those spicy dishes. However, if you are more of a ‘mountain person’ and wishing to take your family for an engaging adventurous trip, Kannur has in store for you with such numerous options to pick out from. You may explore them and get astonished. However, that venture is not supposed to end up there. Instead, travel with Gogeo Holidays, who would arrange engaging family trips to such sort of beautiful locations. Book their family tour packages and have that fun and excitement.

That Awesome Trek to Vellarimala of Kozhikode in Kerala with Family

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It’s damn true that one could not resist those gooseberries and slices of mangoes dipped in those salty waters and watching the enjoyable sunset moments in the famous Kozhikode beach. On the previous day, we did pull over our vehicle at some parking areas and were walking through those aromatic streets known as Mittayi Theruvu that directly translates to ‘Streets for chocolates’ in the local language of Malayalam. Aah…, then most notably, after returning from the top-notch tourist destinations of Wayanad, which are the neighbouring district and the gateway to the place if travelling from any other parts of Kerala. We were holidaying in the plateau district for an entire week and we did not really feel like returning, as everything was so nice and fun. Each tourist spots of the place were just the perfect ones to choose for a family vacation, just like we had felt and experienced.

1_iqbecoRY-dNS7RHqyWvuGwThis happened when we were to go back to Chennai after our holiday in Wayanad. But luckily, we had one more day left on which we planned to do so something thrilling and exciting. With this motive, we contacted our tour operator and suggested the awesome place, Vellarimala. From the Kozhikode city, the hilly region is at a distance of around 50km en route to Wayanad, but at the bordering village of Thiruvambady. Moreover, we were also happy for the fact that we were again going back to the hills that were similar to those of Wayanad via those alluring forestry yet well-paved roads. Quite surprisingly, our guide was a native of Nellipoyil which is only a few distances from our major destination, so he could direct us efficiently those wild paths. At many instances, we felt that we were fortunate to have booked this particular one from other tour packages. Or otherwise, we would have had to grope for yet another local guide all of a sudden. Proceeding to those dense forest covers of Vellarimala could have been indeed hazardous.

Vellarimala is a reserved forest area, so anyone who wishes to enter and trek to these regions should get permission from the State Forest Department prior to trekking. Our guide made all of those legal formalities easier for us, as before getting to the place we never knew that it was a restricted area and without their permission, encroachers would be imposed with fines. He also informed us, these particular hills are also known as Camel’s hump mountains. We were trying to figure them out that why were they called so. Eventually, while we were moving nearer to the major destination, we got to know about its solution.

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The cab in which we were journeying from the downtown of Kozhikode was halted at a point called Muthappanpuzha. I guess that was the base camp of this challenging trekking station situated towards the Sahayadri ranges and sharing its border with Meppadi of the neighbouring district Wayanad. Every time, when I get to hear the name of ‘Wayanad’ it would consistently bring a smile to my face. I still exactly don’t know why it is so. It might be my love and concern I do have for the travel destination, other than my hometown Chennai. So once crossing the entry points of the place, we started our trekking. We were well equipped with all the required essentials like some refreshments, as obviously there will not be any stores in the middle of dense forests even if we were to pay a heavy price. Furthermore, along with them, we had even carried a portable tent so that we could camp at any safer spots.

We continued our trekking across the forestry paths through dense jungles. For many distances, we only got to jaunt via numerous thick bushes with wildflowers and really tall trees. Also, moving in those trails with the occasional chirpings of some birds and squirrels were indeed rejoicing and gave that sheer ambience of wilderness. I guess, even the sunlight was not able to hit the grounds, such as the density of shades provided by those huge trees in this forest covers. In between the walks, we got to rush into several small streams gushing through the slippery rocks and making their own ways. They truly accentuated the very beauty of Vellarimala in rather an elegant way. Nevertheless, the most stunning of them was near Anathenni. I knew it earlier that Aaana in Malayalam meant elephant and just when I was about to clarify this to our guide, he replied that long back even an elephant had lost it balanced and got slipped across these rivulets, and was named so.

After moving across the charming small streams, we got to meet some north Indian couples who were also travelling by their Kerala tour packages. From that point, all of us were trekking together until we reached a viewpoint. When glancing from that point, some valleys could be seen at a distance. Fortunately or unfortunately, the misty fogs did veil those panoramic views. Anyhow, those miniature versions of clouds high up the sky were now right in front of us!! That did bring an ethereal feel in all of us, especially the kids were getting so thrilled that they started literally jumping out of joy. Sadly, the youngest lad of our family did fell and later he was to be carried off in shoulders, as he had bruised knees. In the time being, we asked the honeymooning couple to resume the journey and assured that we will be joining them later.

Once giving the naughty one with the first aids, we also continued. Then we were in front of the slanting waterfalls of Olichuchattam. It was indeed a unique shape that we had never seen before. The beautiful cascading falls were the first point to be captured in every high-definition cameras coming through this way. We had our limitations to spend much time in this particular spot as the guide was warning us that, they are frequented by wild elephant herds passing by to drink waters. Besides, we had a bruised kid with us who cannot be tempted much. He might become more dangerous than the largest land animal if the former is irritated more. Later in the trails, at Ketanpara we spotted some more footprints of animals. Some other travel groups were busy clicking its images in their cameras, so did we.

Then the most exciting part of this entire trip was Vavul mala. They are known to be the highest hill of both these forest region and also in the whole Kozhikode district. It was almost late evening and perfect for sunset by the time we reached there the time. The views from the point were inevitably breathtaking and spectacular. All nearby regions could be seen in a bird eyes view and by this time, our lad was gradually recovering and started moving with his legs again. In addition to that, a cool breeze was hitting our face bringing out that beautiful sensation of roaming high up the hills. These views were had relieved all our exhaustions of covering those risky forestry paths. So finally, after moving some distance downhill, we got to find some plains. Few colourful tents were already hitched there. We started assembling ours and rested the later hours of the day at that mesmerizing hilltop.

The risky and adventurous trip was made simpler due to concerns and supports provided by our ever-reliable tour operator Gogeo Holidays, who had been accompanying us from the moment we stepped our foot in this God’s Own Country and also for our Wayanad trip. Thank You Gogeo!