46 monuments found
Hundreds of years ago, the historical May 20 of 1498 witnessed the emergence of the first European ship at the Malabar Coast of India. Vasco da Gama, along with nearly 170 Portuguese men, stepped at what is today known as the Kappad Beach. A plaque at the beach testifies the event which would completely alter the history of India. The sea route devised by Vasco escorted many European powers to explore and exploit the riches of Malabar for the next 450 years. A beautiful and calm coastal stretch dotted with coconut groves and flanked by rocky outcrops, the beach is a welcome place for those seeking solitude from urban chaos. Fortunately, the beach continues to remain untouched by crowds and urban developments. After exploring the beach, you can utilize the remaining time to visit an 800-year old Hindu Temple perched on a nearby rock and explore the mesmerizing backwaters of the region.
The Alappuzha Lighthouse is India’s first tower to be constructed on the western coast in 1862. It has a great historical significance as it was one of the most popular ports in south India (in older days) and supervised heavy traffic of ships. This beautiful light house is 30 meters high and emits light up to 25 nautical miles. The light house has witnessed all major forms of light sources, from a double wick-oil lamp to a gas flasher, followed by an emergency lantern and finally high voltage Metal Halide light. This magnificent structure of this lighthouse was conceptualized under the guidance of Maratha Varma-II, The King of Travancore and was completed during the reign of King Rama Varma. The lighthouse is a sharp climb up with teak spiral case. Its top provides you with a breath-taking view of the neighbouring countryside converging into the coast line and the majestic setting sun. Adjacent to the lighthouse is a small museum which displays the old lighthouse instruments and is a must watch for tourists interested in antique mechanics. During your visit, other exciting activities which can be explored are house boat rides in the backwaters, visiting archaeological museums, beach side relaxing and snake boat racing. Warning: Steep narrow wooden staircase requires caution for families with small children and people with health issues.
Kochi is home to a number of old European churches and Basilica of Our Lady of Ransom at Vallarapadam is one of them. An extremely popular Christian pilgrimage centre, the church is dedicated to Mother Mary who is worshipped as Vallarpadathamma in the region. According to the popular legends, Mother Mary protected many ships against the violent storms originating in the Arabian Sea. The beautiful church was constructed by the Portuguese merchants and houses the holy picture of Blessed Virgin Mary. Today it enjoys the status of a national shrine and hosts the grand annual festival in the month of September. Masses are held on weekdays and on Sundays in Malayalam and on Saturdays in English and Tamil.
Dedicated to Sree Padmanabhaswamy, a form of Lord Vishnu, Padmanabham Temple is among the wealthiest and most popular Hindu temples. The main attraction of the temple is the huge idol of Lord Padmanabhaswamy in the reclined pose over Anantha, the gigantic five-hood serpent. The idol also features a Shiva Lingam, Lord Brahma in Lotus and goddesses Sridevi and Bhudevi. It is believed that more than 12,000 shaligrams (aniconic form of Vishnu) were used to make the idol. The idol is so large that it can be viewed from three doors. The temple complex also accommodates shrines dedicated to other deities like Ramaswamy with Seeta and Lakshman; Narasimha Swamy, Vishwaksenan, Krishna Swamy, Ganapathi, Hanuman and Garuda. Flaunting superlative architecture, the temple boasts of exquisitely carved pillars, nine entrances, a seven-storey and 35 m. high Gopuram, an 80 ft. high golden flagstaff, a corridor with 365 and a one quarter monolithic pillars, magnificent murals, huge number of bells and a temple tank. Many popular festivals are celebrated at the temple. Only Hindus are allowed entry to the temple. The visitors must strictly follow the dress code (dhoti for men and sari for women).
Known for its length and unadulterated beauty, Muzhapilangad Beach is perfect and safe for swimmers. Stretching across four kilometres, this beach is the largest drive-in beach in Asia. Outlined by black rocks, it protects the beach from strong currents. The beach is heaven for adventure lovers; visitors can enjoy thrilling activities like parasailing, water bike ride, microlite flights, catamaran ride and power boating and paragliding etc. Young visitors can enjoy car stunts performed on the beach. Through Muzhapilangad, one can also capture the gorgeous view of the Dharmadam Island or the Green Island. Calm waters, glittering sands, swaying palm trees and many eateries selling Malabar cuisines, Muzhapilangad Beach is although less explored, it is definitely worth visiting.
Cheraman Juma Masjid is very unique as it is the first mosque to be built in Indian subcontinent for Juma prayers. It is a spectacular structure which was inspired from Hindu art and architecture. One of the remarkable factors of this mosque is unlike other mosques face the direction of the Mecca, this one faces the East. This elegant mosque displays the strong bond between Hindus and Muslims in olden days since it follows the Hindu tradition of lightening a brass oil lamp. The oil for the lamp is however, contributed by different visitors on auspicious occasions. This remarkable structure can be visited by people from any religion but only male visitors are allowed to enter the mosque with prior permission. In this thousand years old mosque, lies a marble block which is considered to be sacred since it has been brought from Mecca.
Sree Kurumba Bhagavathy (or Bhagavati) Temple is located in the holy town of Kodungallur in the Thrissur District of Kerala. Dedicated to Goddess Bhadrakali, a form of Goddess Kali and known in the region as Kodungallur Amma, the temple holds great religious significance and is a popular pilgrimage site. Spread over 10 acres and surrounded by the huge trees of banyan and peepal, the temple has the sanctum sanctorum accommodating a hypnotic image of the goddess with 8 arms, each carrying a different weapon or symbol. According to the popular legend, the temple was established by Lord Parshurama (an incarnation of Lord Vishnu) to honour Bhadrakali who freed the region from the terror of demon Daruka. The temple also houses the images of Lord Shiva, Lord Ganesha and Veerbhadra. Devotees offer red-dyed dhotis (a kind of traditional cloth) and turmeric to the goddess. Pushkarini, the holy pond within the premises, is where the pilgrims take bath before praying at the temple. The temple hosts many festivals and celebrations like Bharani Festival and Thalappoli Festival. The town is also home to many other holy temples, apart from mosques, churches, forts and colonial structures.
One of the most popular temples of Kerala, Chottanikkara Rajarajeswari Temple is denoted as Adhiparasakthi Temple. One of the most notable Hindu shrines of Kerala, the temple houses an impressive 5 ft. idol of Rajarajeswari a.k.a. Durga Bhagavathy. The Bhagavathy Devi in this temple is believed to have healing powers that cures mental disorders. Stationed in a hilly region and embellished with lush green farms, the temple is blessed with utmost serenity and gives mental peace. One of the biggest attractions of the temple is the idol that has four arms and decorated with jewels, fresh garlands and glittering lights make it appear spectacular. Makom Thozhal is the important festival celebrated in this temple in the month of February and March. Another is the Navaratri, which is held during October to November. As the temple is brought from Mookambika Temple in Kollur, it is believed that Mookambika Devi resides in this temple till 7 a.m.
Guruvayur temple is an ancient Hindu temple in South India which is dedicated to Lord Krishna. This extraordinary place is believed to be holy abode of God Vishnu on Earth and therefore is one of the most important places for worship in South India. The architecture of the temple is incredible with detailed designing at all places. The central icon of Lord Krishna is carrying the Sudarshan Chakra. As per the legends, the deity worshipped here is 5000 years old. The daily rituals of the temple are strictly followed. The head priest is present at all the times to ensure that all the routines and customs are properly followed by all. A proper dress code is adhered by men and women to enter the temple. This beautiful temple is a must visit for all and it is believed to be the lifeline of this town.
One among the three popular temples dedicated to Lord Krishna in the state of Kerala, the Sri Krishna Temple Ambalapuzha is a revered pilgrimage site. Constructed somewhere around 15th to 17th century, the temple flaunts the heart-warming Kerala architecture and houses the Krishna idol, carved out of black granite and holding a whip and a conch in its arms. Krishna is worshipped here as Parthasarthi which means the charioteer of Arjuna (Partha), one of the five Pandavas from Mahabharata. The major attraction of the temple is the special prasada called payasam (a sweet made of milk and rice) cooked and served to the devotees on everyday basis. The temple is also famous for hosting a number of grand festivals like Ambalapuzha Temple Festival, Aaraattu Festival, Chambakulam Moolam Water Festival, Pallipana and others. One can find beautiful all paintings depicting ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu at the temple. Put on display is Mizhavu, a huge percussion instrument made of copper in the shape of a drum.
One of the most popular temples of Kerala, Chottanikkara Rajarajeswari Temple is denoted as Adhiparasakthi Temple. One of the most notable Hindu shrines of Kerala, the temple houses an impressive 5 ft. idol of Rajarajeswari a.k.a. Durga Bhagavathy. Bhagavathy Devi in this temple is believed to have healing power that cures mental disorders. Stationed in a hilly region and embellished with lush green farms, the temple is blessed with utmost serenity and gives mental peace. One of the biggest attractions of the temple is the idol that has four arms and is decorated with jewels, fresh garlands and glittering lights making it appear spectacular. MakomThozhal is an important festival celebrated in thetemple in the month of February and March. Another important festival celebration isNavaratri, which is held during October to November. As the temple is brought from Mookambika Temple in Kollur, it is believed that Mookambika Devi resides in this temple till 7 a.m.
Malayattoor Church is located in Ernakulam district of Kerala and is one of the most important Christian pilgrim centres in Kerala. Situated atop the 609 m. high Malayatoor Hill, this church is dedicated to St. Thomas. The church that has now been accorded an international pilgrimage station gets visitors from all over the world. Legends surrounding the shrine speaks of how St. Thomas, the apostle of Jesus Christ came here in AD 52. He is believed to have prayed at this spot and drew a cross dedicated to Jesus. He spent his life helping the poor and died here. Many years later the locals found that the cross he drew had turned into a gold cross with his footsteps on the hill. The church is a renowned Christian pilgrim destination and many people come climbing the mountain on foot carrying gold crosses as an offering. During the Lenten season the believers pray for hours and many volunteer groups are set up to provide a feast for them.
Backwaters in Alleppey endow the city with beauty comparable to Venice. The serpent backwater canals are extremely picturesque and tranquil and encourage tourists to enjoy delightful holiday retreats. Traditional houseboats that allow backwater trips and onboard stays arrange for an exclusive holiday experience. Ayurvedic massages and treatments and authentic spicy food of Kerala are offered to the houseboat guests. The backwaters are popular among honeymoon couples, family tourists and nature lovers. Tourists get to explore the palm-fringed banks, exotic birds, churches and monuments and unique rural lifestyle from houseboats. A high level of relaxation can be achieved on the most famous Alleppey Backwaters tours to the destinations like Kumarakom, Kottayam, Mankotta and Alumkadavu. Nearby tourist places include Alleppey Beach and Sreekrishna Swamy Temple. Snake boat races and temple festivals are the most popular events here. Houseboat stay must be booked in advance especially during peak tourist season. Choose backwater packages only from reputed tour operators. Houseboat package prices may vary between INR 7,000 and 15,000 per day.
The Mattancherry Synagogue popularly called as the ParadesiSynagogue is located in Fort Kochi, Kerala. Built in 1568, it is one of the oldest synagogues and is functioning even today.The central piece of interest in the Mattancherry Synagogue is the Scrolls of the Law written in ancient writingencased in silver and gold. The synagogue has many features that are rare including the Belgium glass chandeliers hanging from the ceiling dating back to the 19th century. The copper plates dating back to the fourth century are written in mirror image writing. The synagogue houses an oriental rug gifted by the last Ethiopian Emperor and even the hand painted floor tiles which boasts of each design being unique from the rest.The floor of the synagogue showcases exquisite hand-painted blue willow patterned floor tiles, imported from China in the 18th century by Ezekiel Rahabi, a renowned Jewish businessman. The speciality of these tiles is that no two tiles are the same.
Famous for its picturesque beauty and perfumed fragrance of tea, Munnar Tea Gardens presents to you a wonderful opportunity to capture the process of picking tea leaves. Visited by thousands of tourists each year, Munnar Tea Gardens is the finest attraction of this hill station. While walking through the mesmerizing tea gardens, visitors can spot Neelakurinji - a flower that blooms every 12 years. One may also encounter elephants, tigers, rare species of Nilgiri Tahr and flying squirrel along with the tea gardens. Tourists can see TATA Tea Company that has a museum at the Nallathani estate. The tea leaves from these gardens are considered as the best souvenir. Early morning is the best time to explore the unadulterated beauty of Munnar Tea Gardens. Visitors can explore the nearby attractions like Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, Mattupetty Lake, Top Station, Eravikulam Park and Kolukkumalai tea estate - believed to be the highest tea garden, with a height of 8000 ft.
Introduction If seclusion and solitude are your ideas for a fulfilling holiday experience, Kizhunna Ezhara Beach of Kannur coastal belt is the ideal location for you. Tow separate beaches of Kizhunna and Ezhara constitute this splendid crescent stretch of golden sand along calm and charming Arabian Sea. Rocks in black colour and crimson-shaded cliffs create an alluring combination with the green waving coconut palms and the visitors get to enjoy deep intimacy with unspoiled nature. While relaxing at the beach is the most heart-warming activity, one can also indulge in bathing and swimming (not recommended during monsoons). Take leisurely walk over the soft sand or sit down to enjoy the warming sun. Book accommodation at one of the homestays offered near the beach and you will relish unparalleled peace and serenity. It can also be a great opportunity to explore the rural lifestyle of the region. Many popular and worthwhile tourist locations near the beach include Kannur Fort (St. Angelo Fort), Arakkal Museum, Thalassery Fort and Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary among others.
Continuously washed by the playful ocean waves, Bekal Fort is the largest fort in Kerala and is known for its strategic defensive construction. Designated as a special tourism spot by the Indian Government, the fort has been the venue for shooting many popular Bollywood movies, songs and music albums. Some of the spellbinding highlights of the fort include stairways eloping into the ground, huge walls and ramparts, water tank accessible by steps, tunnels, observation tower and a magazine that was used to store ammunition. Many amazing structures inside the fort complex include palaces, Hanuman Temple, mosque, Durbar Hall and some outstanding monuments. Bekal Fort offers mesmerizing views of Bekal Beach which spreads in front of the fort. Majestic sunset views can leave anyone speechless. It is indeed a fantasy direct from the fairy tales.
The Marthoma Pontifical Shrine is located in the village of Azhikode in Thrissur, Kerala. The church lies on the banks of the River Periyar and is part of the Muziris Heritage Project. The Marthoma Pontifical shrine is built to replicate the St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome and covers over 3500 sq. ft. The significance of this church is that it was the very first church set up the apostle St. Thomas in Kerala and it was followed by six others. The legends surrounding the church speak of how St. Thomas came here in 52 A.D and is believed to have settled in Kerala and later his bones where brought from Italy and where placed in the shrine for worship. The MarthomaSmruthiTharangam Mansion built in the Indo-Persian style depicts the life of St. Thomas. When tracing the roots of Christianity in India, this shrine is said to have been the source of the spreading of the belief. This shrine is one of the major Christian pilgrim centers that are frequented by thousands of devotees worldwide.
Mata Amritanadamayi Math is an internationally recognized charitable organization. Founded in 1981by Mata Amritanadamayi, the main aim of this organization is spiritual awakening and enlightenment. The organization is highly involved in various causes like removal of poverty, disaster relief, healthcare for the poor, environmental programs and educational facilities and scholarships for students from economically weak segment. Mata Amritanandamayi has millions of followers and believers across the world and is lovingly addressed as Amma. The residents here are dedicated to spend their life in serving God and society. Mata Amritanadamayi Math is located in Amritapuri-a village in Kollam district, Kerala.The Math was awarded the esteemed Dharma Khadgam Award by the President of India for its various charitable involvements. Mata Amritanadamayi Math is an organization that encourages people from all walks of life to participate in its various activities and the students of the Amrita Vishwapeetham schools are often involved in various activities like women empowerment, meditation programs and Sanskrit classes. This is an organization that beckons to all those who want to bring a change in the world by helping others. The headquarters of Mata Amritanadamayi Math is home to more than 3,000 people, comprising of people from all sections including students and monastic disciples. Believers visit the math to receive the blessings of Mata Amritanandamayi and to participate in the bhajans (spiritual songs) and other community programmes.
Kerala’s smallest national park, called Pampadum Shola National Park, has gained recent recognition for its exotic natural beauty and impressive biodiversity. Located at the eastern face of the southern Western Ghats, the park is home to the endangered Nilgiri marten and many other wild species like tigers, elephants, gaur, leopards, Indian wild dogs, wild boar, sambar, barking deer and many more. Many varieties of birds and butterflies add to the park’s exquisiteness. Usually covered with mist and clouds, the park enjoys pleasant weather and offers remarkable views of luxuriantly green grasslands and forests. Apart from many varieties of trees and climbers, there are several herbs with medicinal qualities. Trekking is the best way to explore the amazing treasures of the park. Many eco-tourism activities like adventure trekking and night camping are arranged for the tourists by the combined efforts of forest authorities and local tribes.
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