Tuesday, December 2, 2008

Museums In Jaipur

Museums In Jaipur

Museums are the reflection of ancient culture, customs and traditions of a place. At the same time, they offer amusement to the visitors.

There are a quite a few museums in Jaipur. The Albert Hall Museum, for instance, is surrounded by flowerbeds, and fountains. This museum is also sometimes referred to as the Government Central Museum. The museum has an exquisite collection of paintings, which are in deed a marvel to watch. It also has some priceless jewelry, earthenware, pottery, natural stones, articles of ivory, metal works, finely carved brassware and other exhibits. There is a special section in the museum which Egyptian mummy and another section displays toys of various countries.

The one next in the line of Jaipur museums is the City Palace Museum. The Diwan-i-Aam section of this museum has great sights to offer. It has a host of collections, which include original ancient manuscripts of the Hindus. The miniature form of the Bhagwat Gita is another interesting object. This was specifically made to hide from the cruel reach of Aurangzeb who was a religious fanatic and destroyed almost everything he found at hand. The ceilings are beautifully decorated and deserve special admiration for the tradional Rajput architechture. Also, there is a special section known as the Diwan-i- Khas, which is meant for private audience. The chandeliers are a beauty to watch.

Jaipur museums also include The Dolls Museum, which is only meant for collection of dolls form various parts of the country and also from abroad. The regional dolls add an extra flavor to the local customs. The dolls in bridal attire are very beautiful to watch.

Hawa Mahal Museum is yet another one of the category of Jaipur museums. Centred on the historical Hawa Mahal, the museum gives you a clear insight of the splendid structure.

Albert Hall Museum
Located just outside the walled city is the sprawling Ram Niwas garden, which has always been a place for recreational activities since the reign of Sawai Ram Singh ji . This exquisitely designed garden with forcentry doors and a huge complex with small pools and fountains, flourishing lawns and beautiful flower beds all around was basically a famine relief project. It mostly attracted the British families where they entertained their guest and families quite often with the lavish gowns of the Men and formal colourful attires of the nobels and the high society club members, this park would come alive with the setting sun.

Their individual 'BAGGIS' were parked outside in a line and the attendants served around as helpers. The children basically had a gala timely playing around in 'JHULAS'(swing) etc. During day time it was opened for the common public and by the evening it was opened for common public and by the evening it was available for exclusive lots. Situated in the middle of the garden as a centre attraction was the exquisitely built structure of Albert Hall, which was designed by sir Swinton Jacob, a British architect who designed many palaces in Rajasthan.

Combining the elements of English and north Indian architecture known as the pride of the New Jaipur opened in 1887 AD, it is a very well maintained and impressive building displaying a rich collection of Art- de- fact like paintings, carpet, ivory, stone and metal sculptures and colourful crystal works etc. Just opposite the Albert Hall is one of the oldest ZOO in the country, harbouring different species of birds and animals. Another piece of attraction near the Albert Hall, is the Ravindra Rang Manch (theatre) with a modern art gallery and an performing art theatre both indoor and open air. Recently added joints of interest are streets dotted with food stalls which promises a delicious variety of Indian fast food certainly relished by the tourists.

Hawa Mahal Museum
The Hawa Mahal, a multi layered palace, was built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II. Famous for it's beehive like structure, the Mahal is an built by red and pink sand stone, carefully and painstakingly outlined with white borders and motifs. The palaces and forts , which is witness to the royal processions and splendours are now living monuments, accepted quite naturally into the lifestyle of the people of the "Pink City".There is, also, a small archaeological museum on the same site.

Behind the beautiful Hawa Mahal (Palace of Winds) in the adjoining Partap Mandir, a museum was set up in the year 1983. Preserved here, is the sculptural heritage collected from Ganeshwar, Virat Nagar, Raid, Sambhar and Museum of Indology, Jaipur Nagar.Exhibits include items of terracotta, antiquities, fish hooks, arrow heads, swords, helmets and belongings of the Maharajas of Jaipur. A big storage vessel of 2nd century AD obtained during archaeology at Naliasar (Sambhar) draws the attention of visitors.

Dolls Museum
Dolls Museum in Jaipur is perhaps the most famous among all other museums of 'Pink City' and is largely visited by tourists from all over the globe. The museum is home to a large number of lovely dolls representing different cultures across the world. One is sure to be mesmerized with the striking beauty of these dolls clad in the traditional attires of various countries at the Dolls Museum in Jaipur.

Situated about 4 km from the city center, Dolls Museum was built in 1974 with the purpose of providing an insight into the different cultures that are present all over the world. There are a large number of Indian dolls depicting the traditional costumes of different states across India. One can see the local attire of Gujarat, Bengal, Assam, Kashmir, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Punjab and several other Indian states at the Dolls Museum in Jaipur. The most striking are bridal dresses of different states like Mysore, Kerala, Gujarat, Bengal and Punjab. The particular costumes of different classical dance forms in India like Bharatanatyam, Kathakali, Odissi and Kuchipudi have also been beautifully put on display at the Dolls Museum of Jaipur.

There is an equally splendid variety of dolls portraying the culture of both developed nations as well as the Third World. The national dresses of USA, Britain, Mexico, Spain, Sweden, Germany, Ghana, Uganda, Lebanon and Afghanistan are particularly striking. Beautiful dolls dressed up in the bridal wear of Japan, Malaysia, Burma, China and New Zealand look absolutely stunning and add to the beauty of the already magnificent costumes. The Dolls Museum in Jaipur creates a small fairytale world of its own. The way in which dolls have been used to present the varied cultures across the globe is indeed commendable.

City Palace Museum
Walking into the city palace museum of Diwan-I-Am, the hall for the public, one is enthralled by its vast collection of displays. Interesting are the original parchments and ancient manuscripts of Hindu scriptures. The miniature copies of Bhagwat Gita, the holy book of the Hindus, were written to be saved from Emperor Aurangazeb’s intolerance towards other religions, are also found in this museum. Besides the miniature paintings of Rajasthan grace the halls. Paintings on Mughal art and Persian school of art are also on display. The themes on which these paintings have been done are varied and it includes the epic story, Ramayana that is very engrossing. The ceilings of the museum are also painted and are preserved well. T

he elephant saddles known as “haudha” are also displayed. There is a hall for private audience known as the Diwan-I-Khas which displays world’s greatest silver objects, two huge silver vessels. This marble paved hall also has magnificent well-preserved chandeliers. A part of the Palace is still occupied by the royal family but it is worth visiting the ground floor since you can spot the majestic peacock in the courtyard. It is a well-preserved museum maintaining century old legacies with great care.

Fairs & Festivals of Jaipur

Fairs and Festivals in Jaipur

Elephant Festival, Jaipur: The elephant festival gets underway in the month of Phalgun (March) on the eve of Holi, the festival of colours. The festival begins with a procession of elephants, camels, horses and folk dancers. The sight of mighty jumbos striding majestically is a treat to watch. The mahavats or owners proudly decorate their elephants with bright colours, jhools (saddle cloth) and heavy jewellery. Female elephants are made to wear payals or anklets which tinkle as they walk. Prizes are given for the most beautifully decorated elephant. Even more exciting is the Polo match, the Elephant race, the tug-of-war between elephant and 19 men and women. The most colourful being the playing of Holi on Elephant back.

Kaila Devi Fair : The annual fair of Kaila Devi, (Mahalakshmi or the goddess of wealth), is held at the village Kaila (24 kms to the south west) in Karauli district in the month of Chaitra (Mar-Apr), lasting for a fortnight. The temple of Kaila Devi is located on the banks of the Kalisil river in the hills of Trikut, 2 Kms. to the north-west of Kaila village. Another attraction is the small temple dedicated to Bhairon, situated in the courtyard and facing the shrine of Kaila Devi is a temple of Hanuman locally called 'Languriya'.

Gangaur Festival: The Gangaur festival is the most important local festival of Rajasthan and is observed throughout the state with great fervour and devotion by womenfolk who worship Gauri, the consort of lord Shiva. Gan is a synonym for Shiva and Gauri which stands for Gauri or Parvati who symbolizes saubhagya (Marital Bliss). Gauri is the embodiment of perfection and conjugal love which is why the unmarried women worship her for being blessed with good husbands, while married women do so for welfare, health and long life of their spouses and a happy married life.

The festival commences on the first day of Chaitra, the day following Holi and continues for 18 days. For a newly-wedded girl, it is binding to observe the full course of 18 days of the festival that succeeds her marriage. Even unmarried girls fast for the fully period of 18days and eat only one meal a day.

Images of Isar & Gauri are made of clay for the festival. In some families, permanent wooden images are painted afresh every year by reputed painters called Matherans on the eve of the festival. A distinct difference between the idols of Teej and Gangaur is that the idol will have a canopy during the Teej festival while the Gangaur idol would not a canopy.

The ladies decorate their hands and feet by drawing design with Mehendi (myrtle Paste). The figures drawn range from the sun, Moon and the stars to simple flowers or geometrical designs.

Teej Festival: Teej is the festival of swings. It marks the advent of the monsoon month of Sharvan (August). The monsoon rains fall on the parched land and the pleasing scent of the wet soil rises into the air. Swings are hung from trees and decorated with flowers. Young girls and women dressed in green clothes sing songs in celebration of the advent of the monsoon. This festival is dedicated to the Goddess Parvati, commemorating her union with Lord Shiva. Goddess Parvati is worshipped by seekers of conjugal bliss and happiness. An elaborate procession is taken out in Jaipur for two consecutive days on the festive occasion which is watched by people in large numbers. The Teej idol is covered with a canopy whereas the Gangaur idol is open.

Kerala Travel Tips

The ancient land founded by the legendary mythological figure Rishi Parashuram, blessed with emerald backwaters and gold and silver beaches is Kerala- God's own country. With the Arabian Sea on the west and the Western Ghats on its east, Kerala is a treasure trove of indigenous cultural practices and art forms that have mesmerized people all over the world.

Be it the age old Kathakali or the newly rediscovered Mohiniattyam or the knowledge of Ayurveda . Basking in the generosity of the sun and rain the climate of Kerala supports a lush vegetation and a wide array of wildlife unlike anywhere else in the country. This miraculously unspoiled serene wilderness is all nature lovers' paradise and rapidly gaining momentum as a popular tourist hub in and around the country.

Traveling to Kerala is always a rewarding and unique experience. But traveling to Kerala can top the chart of your holiday experiences if you keep a few things in mind. Here is some of the travel tips that will help you make the most of your trip to Kerala.

Travel Tips for Kerala :

Visa
Carry your visa for entry to India/Kerala Travel Tips on your holiday. For further clarifications, contact the Indian High Commission.

Money
There is no limit to the amount of foreign currency that visitors can bring.

Banks
Banks are open for transaction from 10.00 to 14.00 hrs on all days except Sundays (10.00 to 12.00 hrs).

Travel Wear
Cotton outfits, hats, sunglasses, sunscreen lotion etc....

Credit Cards
Main hotels, restaurants and shopping centres honour major credit cards in Tips for Kerala Travel.

Currency
Indian Rupee (INR)

Drugs
Heavy punishments including imprisonment are imposed for possession of narcotic drugs.

Emergency Numbers
» Police control room: 100
» Fire station: 101
» Ambulance: 101

Time
(Hours fast (+), slow (-) on IST)
» USA: -10.30, Germany: -4.30, Canada: -10.30, France: -4.30,
» Australia: +4.30, Spain: -4.30, UAE: -1.30

Water
Tap water is purified and quite safe to drink. It is not advisable to drink water from slow moving streams, lakes or dams. Mineral water is available in sealed bottles.

Temple Codes
Footwear inside the temple and entry into the sanctum sanctorum is banned in all the temples Kerala Travel Places.

Other customs and codes of conduct and dress in temples across the State vary from each other.

Some temples do not permit entry to non-Hindus, while some do. Shirts for men and pants are banned from some temples and allowed in some others. Where they are banned, men have to be in mundus and women, in saris, half-saris or long skirts.

Nudity
Nudity is not allowed in any Kerala Travel Destination beach.

Ayurvedic Treatment
If you wish to undergo Ayurvedic treatment, it is very important to ensure that you go to an authorised centre.

Wildlife Sanctuaries
To visit a wildlife sanctuary, prior permission has to be taken from the concerned authority of the sanctuary Kerala India Travel Tips.

Wildlife in Kerala

Just like green pastures, beaches and backwaters, Kerala is also a wilderness beauty. There are numerous wildlife reserves situated within the state, but the major part is that even if they are wild reserves they present a unique travel experience to every visitor who visit them.

One of the major reasons of a varied wildlife is the breathtakingly beautifully hill range of the Nilgiris. So if you ever get bored of exploring the wilds, there's always an option of touring the hill resorts and destinations as well as tea estates of Kerala. More of all while exploring the wilds you can always go for a trek or a hike towards the tea estate regions that usually surround the hill stations of Kerala.

Kerela's wildlife sanctuaries, are home to some of the highly endangered species of flora and fauna. The main wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala include Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary and Thekkady Bird Sanctuary. The well maintained wildlife sanctuaries and national parks of Kerala are teeming with exotic wildlife.

Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary :

Access :Nearest Airport - Coimbatore and Cochin.
Nearest Railway Station - Pollachi (60 Km) And Aluva (200 Kms).

Area : Total - 90.422 Sq.Km.

Climate :Rainfall - 100 Mm. Unlike Other Regions In Kerala, Chinnar Gets Only 48 Days Of Rain ( Northeast Monsoon : October - November) Annually.

Located in the rain shadow region of the western ghats, the sanctary occupies the forested region on either side of the Marayoor - Udumalped road. This is the second habitat of the endangered giant grizzled squirrel of india. The location of sanctuary offers the unique advantage of watching its fascinating wildlife at close quarters from the road without venturing deep into the jungle. The Marayoor sandal forest and the beautiful Thoovanam waterfalls are located here.

Vegetation :Forest Types - Thorny Scrub Forest With Xerophytic Species. Dry Deciduous Forests, High Sholas And Wetlands.

Wildlife Population :Mammals - Elephant, Gaur, Spotted Deer, Panther, Sambar, The Endangered Giant Grizzled Squirrel, Hanuman Langur, Rabbit Etc

Eravikulam National Park :

Access : Nearest Airport - Cochin (155 Kms)
Nearest Railway Station - Aluva (114 Kms) From Munnar.

Area :Total - 97 Sq.Km. Core: 350 Sq.Km. Periyar Lake 26 Sq. Km, Forest Cover : 360 Sq.K.M.

Climate :This is one of the wettest regions of the world. Rainfall : 4500 mm. Frost is common in the winter months - december to february. 15 Km North Of Munnar. Established In 1975 To Protect The Nilgiri Tahr, The Eravikulam Sanctuary Was Declared A National Park In 1978 Considering Its Ecological, Faunal, Floral, Geomorphological And Zoological Significance. The Park Is Breathtakingly Beautiful And Comparable To The Alpine Ranges. This Land Of The Neelakurinji Is 7 Km From The Rajamalai Hills.

Vegetation :Forest Types - Rolling Grasslands and on a Higher Level, Shola Forest.

Wildlife Population :Mammals - Tigers , Panther, Wild Dog, Civet Cats, Sloth Bear, Nilgiri Langur, Wild Boar, Nilgiri Tahr etc

Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary :

Access :Nearest Airport - Madurai (143 Kms)
Nearest Railway Station - Kumarakom (114 Kms).
Nearest Town - Kumily (4km), the entry point to the Reserve is Thekkady, Which is Accessible by Good Roads from Madurai, Cochin & Thiruvananthapuram.

Area :Total - 77 Sq.Km.

Climate :Monsoon : June - November
Rainfall : 2200 Mm. 40 kms from Thodupuzha town. Spread over the Thodupuzha and Udumpanchola taluks of Idukki district, the sanctuary was formed in 1976. The Idukki arch dam, the first major hydroelectric project in Kerala, is situated here. The 33 sq.km scenic lake around the santruary - the Idukki reservoir - is formed by the three dams Cheruthoni, Idukki and Kulamavu.

Vegetation :Tropical Dense Evergreen Forest : White Pine, Kuntherekka Pine, Punnappa, Bhadraksham, Palai, Vediplavu, Maravuri, Vayana Etc.

Wildlife Population : Reptiles - Elephant, Deer , Bear, Leopard Tiger, Wild Pig Etc.
Mammals - Cobra, Viper, Python, Rat Snake, Etc.
Reptiles - Hornbill, Kingfisher, Woodpecker.

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary :

Located on the banks of the vembanad lake, the kumarakom bird sanctuary, an ornithologist's paradise, is a favourite haunt of migratory birds like the siberian stork, egret, darter, heron and teal. Other common varieties like the woodpecker, skylark, crane, water hen and parrots can also be spotted here. A cruise along the vembabad lake is the best way to experience the sanctuary. Pathiramanal, an enchanting island on the lake, can be accessed by boat from here.

Best Time :Between June And August. (Migratory Birds : November - February)

Pathiramanal :This 10 acre island on the backwaters is home to may rare varieties of migratory birds from different parts of the world.

Kerala Temples

When it comes to temples, probably Kerala's temples are not that well known as other South Indian states of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. But they are still every bit worth a visit and carry their own way of expressing the depth of religious faith.

Dedicated to various Gods and Goddesses from the Hindu mythology, the temples of Kerala are architectural delights. Built in the traditional architectural style the significant temples in Kerala include the Guruvayoor Temple, Kalpathy Temple, Sabrimala Temple, and Thriprayar Temple. Some huge and richly decorated while other small with simple decor, all speak volumes about the highly religious temperament of the people.

Traditional Hindu temples in Kerala are simple structures made of wood, brick and laterite stone. Often, from afar, the only sign that marks the presence of old temples is a tall, ceremonial flag-mast. The main sanctum hosting the deities - “Sreekovil” - is invariably a single storied building of a circular or square plan.

Inside the temples, use of oil lamps in contrast to electrical lights lends an air of serenity and mysticism. Walls of the Sreekovil are rarely left bare and are instead, covered with intricate, beautiful mural paintings or wood carvings. The sloping roof buildings are able to cope very well with the almost year-round torrential rains that are a hallmark of Kerala's climate.

Ambalapuzha Temple
The ancient Sree Krishna Temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna is situated 8 miles south of Alappuzha. This temple is famous throughout Kerala for the milk porridge, 'Palpayasam' served here.

Chottanikkara Temple
Chottanikkara temple, located near Ernakulam enshrines Bhagawati - the mother Goddess, one of the most popular deities in Kerala. Enroute is the Poornatrayesa temple at Tripunittura. The Devi is worshipped along with Lord Vishnu. Together, they are known as Lakshminarayana.

Sri Padmanabh Swamy Temple
A famous pilgrimage centre and one of the major attractions in Thiruvananthapuram city, the Maharaja of Travancore built this famous temple with its seven-storey carved gopuram in the Dravidian style in 1733. There are innumerable pillars, intricate carvings and mural paintings of natural pigments. The temple is dedicated to Vishnu who reclines on the sacred serpent Ananda. The image of Vishnu is 18 feet long and a lotus grows from Vishnu's navel and Brahma is seen in the lotus. Several arts forms like Krishnanattam, Koodiyattom, Pavakkoothu, Nokkuvidya, Velakali, Kathakali and others thrived under the patronage of Sree Padmanabha Swamy Temple.

Vadukkumnathan Temple
The Vadakkunnathan Temple at Thrissur is one of the famous temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is one of the largest temples in Kerala. Adi Sankaracharya is supposed to have spent his last days in this temple. This temple is a classic example of the Kerala style of architecture. The shrines and the Koothambalam (Temple theatre), display exquisite vignettes carved in wood. Legend says that Parasurama built this temple. This temple is famous for its Pooram Festival, which includes colorful and magnificent processions, brightly decorated elephants and fireworks.

Guruvayoor Temple
Guruvayoor, where the famous Sree Krishna Temple is situated, is one of the most sacred and important pilgrim centres of kerala. The walls of the sanctum sanctorum are inlaid with exquisite mural paintings and carvings.

Kalpathy Temple
he Vishwanatha Swamy shrine, the oldest Shiva temple is situated 3 kms from Palakkad. The annual chariot temple is a gala event. The annual 'Ratholsavam' or Chariot Festival at Sree Viswanantha Swamy temple lasts for seven days.

Mangla Devi Temple
Mangala devi temple, the ancient temple is located 15 kms from Thekkady. It lies hidden in the dense woods at the top of a peak 1337 m above sea level. The temple is built in the traditional Kerala style of architecture.

Oachira Temple
Oachira Temple, Kerala Temple Travel PackagesOachira is unique place of worship with neither a structure to house an idol nor an idol around which temples are usually built. The presiding deity at this sanctum-sanctorum is the abstract principle of the 'Parabrahmam' or the 'Divine Omnipresence' or 'Universal Conciousness'.

Thali Temple
Thali Temple, located downtown is an important temple of the erstwhile Zamorin Kingdom of Kozhikode. The temple is famous for the 'Revathi Pattathanam', an annual competition of pedagogic skills.

Thirunavaya Navamukunda Temple
Thiruvanaya Navamukunda Temple, near Ponnani in Malappuram district is situated on the banks of the river Bharathapuzha. Holding immense historical importance, this is the place where 'Mamangam', a grand assembly of the rulers of Kerala was held here once every 12 years, in olden times.

Thiruvalla Temple
Thiruvalla Temple is one of the largest temples of Kerala and a fine specimen of its traditional style of temple architecture. The temple has many shrines though it is mainly dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

Vaikom Temple
Parasurama, the mythical founder of Kerala, is said to have built a temple here dedicated to Lord Shiva. The twelve-day festival of the temple falls in November -December, and is celebrated with classical dance and music performances.

Sabarimala Temple
Sabarimala is a renowned pilgrim center crowning the rugged hills of the Western Ghats. This holy shrine here is dedicated to Lord Ayyappa. The Village of Sabarimala is named after Shabari who did severe penance in order to meet Rama. As the legend goes, touched by her devotion and faith, Lord Rama lovingly ate the half-eaten 'ber' (kind of berries) that she offered. In her simplicity, she had preferred to taste them first to ensure that they were sweet and tasty.

Kerala Honeymoon Tour

Duration: 6nights - 7days
Destination: Cochin - Munnar - Thekkedy - Kumarakom - Alleppey

Day 01 : Cochin
On Arrival at Cochin Airport/Ernakulam Railway station you will be welcomed by our tour representative and transfer to hotel .Afternoon proceed for a local tour of Cochin .You will be transferred to Cochin Harbour to board a speed boat which takes you to the gate way of the Arabian Sea .On arrival fort Cochin transfer to the island and proceed for a local tour which covers Dutch Palace, Jewish Synagogue, St. Francis Church, Chinese Fishing nets .Evening return back to Cochin Harbour .Evening visit Cochin beach and 6.30pm proceed for a Kathakali show Kerala's own classical dance drama program later return back to hotel and over night stay at Cochin .

Day 02 : Cochin - Munnar
After an early morning breakfast, check out from the hotel & embark on a fascinating journey to Munnar covered with unending expanse of tea plantation. The panoramic view of the Cardamom hills & green carpets of tea plantation is an un forgettable experience. On arrival check in resort and rest of the day is at leisure at resort and you can make use of all resort facilities like health club ,Gym , out door games ,etc and over night stay at resort.

Day 03 : Munnar
Morning after breakfast at resort proceed for an exciting local tour of Munnar. Visit Eravikulam National Park where you can see the very rare mountain goats locally called the Nilgiri Tahr, Pothamedu (view of tea, coffee &cardamom plantation&breath taking hills &lush mountains) the Echo point, Thoovanam falls, Top station Diary farm, Mattupety Lake &dam etc and over night stay at Munnar.

Day 04 : Munnar - Thekkedy
Morning have breakfast at resort later check out resort and drive to Thekkedy .Thekkedy is a world famous wildlife sanctuary and it is also called as Periyar. On arrival check in resort afternoon proceed for a game viewing cruise on the Periyar Lake. Here you will be able to see a large variety of wildlife, which include elephants, monkeys, deer, wild boar etc evening you can take a Elephant ride at Periyar wild life and rest of the day is at leisure and over night stay at resort

Day 05 : Thekkedy - Kumarakom
Morning have breakfast at resort later check out resort and drive to Kumarakom a place best known for the honeymooners. It is a cluster of little islands on the Vembanad Lake. The lush green vegetation and the climate attract a number of tourists to this place. On reaching Kumarakom check in the backwater resort and later on move out for the local tour. Visit the Kumarakom bird sanctuary, and rest of the day is at leisure at resort and you can make use of resort facilities ,Swimming pool ,Health club ,out door and indoor games and you can also take a Ayurveda Massage at resort and over night stay at resort.

Day 06 : Kumarakom - Alleppey
Morning after breakfast transfer to deluxe houseboat to enjoy the 22 hours of backwater cruise from Kumarakom to Alleppey. The House boat will reach Back water resort were you will be staying previous night This journey is considered to be one of the best attractions. The house boat is fully furnished with single and double bedrooms, sundeck, private balcony and a kitchen. It also comprises a chef, Oarsmen & cabin assistant. The materials that go into the making are all local and Eco friendly bamboo poles, coconut fiber ropes, bamboo mats, coir carpets etc. Over night stay at House boat .

Day 07 : Cochin
Morning have breakfast at house boat and check out by 9.30am and drive to cochin and as per your Flight/Train schedule you will be dropped at Airport/.Railway station to return back home with happy memories.

Kerala Houseboat Cruises

Kerala Houseboat Cruises

Kerala Houseboat Cruises are one of the highlights of your Kerala Tour. For those who would prefer to avoid the frenzied activity on a vacation, who wish to rest and relax in the very lap of nature, to enjoy luxury in the privacy of a cabin and yet not remain pent up in a hotel, for those who wish to experience the beauty of rural life combined with the advantages of an urban living, a houseboat cruise is the perfect answer. Kerala, with its 900 km of tranquil, emerald backwaters offers the perfect opportunity for such quintessential tranquility and an enchanting holiday.

Kerala is crisscrossed by 5 major lakes, innumerous canals and lagoons and the estuaries, and deltas of forty-four seething rivers and these make up the famed backwaters where the majestic houseboats ply. The favored districts for houseboat cruises in Kerala are Kollam, Alappuzha, Kottayam and Kochi. The Ashtamudi Lake being the second longest backwater stretch in Kerala offers a long idyllic siesta in your houseboat cruise. The tourist season lasts through the winter months and it is advisable to book your cruises well in advance.

The Houseboats:
A luxury houseboat or Ketuvallom offers 5 star luxuries in the middle of the calm backwaters. Enjoy modern amenities such as an AC, a Jacuzzi, a lavish bed, separate dining quarters and an open deck well equipped with board games such as Chess, Scrabble and Playing Cards. Pursue your favorite activities such as fishing, painting, reading (from the well furnished houseboat library) and listening to the romantic numbers on a high-tech music system available onboard. Maps Of India brings you complete information on the various Houseboats In Kerala.

The Attraction:
Sail through the quaint fishing hamlets and revel in the rustic charm of their simple lives. From the plush cushions of your houseboat, view the beauties of the world around you; the sheer pink lotus that flowers at dawn and the white water lilies that bloom at moonrise; the lush green paddy fields on either side and the farmers humming rhythmically as they work; come nightfall, a sleep under the starry skies fanned by the cool breeze of the sea as the faint notes of the fisherman’s songs induce the most charming dreams; life seems almost perfect.

Meals on these houseboats are a special attraction. Freshly caught fishes and other sea food, cooked by an in-house cook and served steaming hot in an authentic traditional style promises to be a gastronomic delight you would love to indulge in. Breakfast, lunch and dinner in the sunlight deck or the luxuriant dining quarters of these opulent vessels is an amazing experience..