1. Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary

Elephants, top 5 wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala

Chinnar wildlife sanctuary is located in Idukki district, 60 km from Munnar. Semi-evergreen , deciduous forests , sholas, grasslands, valleys, hills all interspersed together forms the main habitat of the region. The altitude of the region and the rainfall contribute a lot to this. This area gets rainfall 50 days every year. Chinnar wildlife sanctuary is said to be the second home of the endangered giant grizzled squirrel of India. Deep within the sanctuary is the Thoovanam waterfalls.It’s an excellent place for trekking. The Marayoor sandalwood forest is located here. The Chinnar watch tower gives an good view of the sanctuary. The watch tower is accessible with the permission of the forest department.

How to reach:

By Air: Kochi International Airport

2. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (Thekkady)

Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Top 5 wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala

Periyar wildlife sanctuary is both  a tiger and an elephant reserve. It is a protected area and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Kerala. The sanctuary surrounds the Periyar lake. The longest river in Kerala, River Periyar originates from here . It provides water for the local wildlife. It is also one of the twenty seven tiger reserves in India. Herds of elephants are a common side near the lake. Other animals found commonly in the region are bison, deer and fox.

How to reach:

By Air: Kochi International Airport

By Rail: Kottayam Railway Station

3. Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary

Nilgiri Langur, top 5 wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala

Muthanga wildlife sanctuary is located in Sultan Bathery, Wayanad district. This sanctuary is known for its herds of elephants. It was brought under the project elephant in 1991-92. The sanctuary also touches the Mudumalai sanctuary of Tamilnadu in the southeast and the Nagarhole and Bandipur sanctuaries in the northeast. Half the sanctuary is covered with teak and eucalyptus trees.

This sanctuary is also a rainforest reserve. It has lot of endangered species. There are giant watering holes in the sanctuary and you can see the wild animals coming in herds to drink water especially during summer season. There are two watch towers inside the sanctuary and the Chethalayam waterfalls is also inside Muthanga. The typical moist deciduous forests can be experienced here.

How to reach:

By Air: Karipur International Airport, Kozhikode

By Rail: Kozhikode Railway Station

4. Idukki Sanctuary

wildlife, top 5 wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala

This sanctuary is 40 kms from Thodupuzha in Idukki district. It is located at a height ranging between 450m to 748 m above the sea level. This sanctuary attracts a lot of tourists and it lies between the two rivers Cheruthoni and Periyar. The wildlife here is similar to that of Thekkady. This sanctuary lies close to the world famous arch dam of Idukki.

Around 107 species of butterflies live in the sanctuary. Many endangered species of butterflies are found in this sanctuary. Some of the popular butterflies in this sanctuary are the Malabar Tree Nymph, Hampson’s Hedge Hopper, Malabar Banded Swallowtail and Southern Birdwing.

How to reach:

By Air: Kochi International Airport

By Rail: Kottayam Railway Station, Changanasherry Railway Station

5. Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary

Spotted Deer, top 5 wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala

This sanctuary is located in a very picturesque surrounding. What is unique about this sanctuary is that the backwaters lie just behind it. The wildlife enthusiasts can visit the lion park and also boat on the Neyyar lake and take a tour of the Steve Irwin crocodile park. This is what makes Neyyar wildlife sanctuary different from the other sanctuaries. The sanctuary also has a deer rehabilitation center.

How to reach:

By Air: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport

By Rail: Neyyantinkara Railway Station

]]> http://mykeralahotels.in/top-5-wildlife-sanctuaries-in-kerala/feed/ 0 http://mykeralahotels.in/dolmens-of-marayoor/ http://mykeralahotels.in/dolmens-of-marayoor/#comments Fri, 10 May 2013 18:01:35 +0000 Mamta http://mykeralahotels.in/?p=3443 Dolmens of Marayoor and the rock paintings there date back to the Stone Age. Marayoor is located in Idukki district and is the only place in Kerala with natural sandalwood forests. The name Marayoor means hidden village, ‘Mara’ means hide in Malayalam and ‘Ooru’ means village in Tamil. Legend says that the Pandava brothers  stayed there when they were hiding during their vanavasam. It is also said to have got its name because it is hidden due to being surrounded by the Western Ghats.

Inside the Dolmens, Dolmens of Marayoor…

1. Kovalam Beach

Kovalam – View from top of lighthouse

Kovalam is one of the most developed beaches in Kerala.  There are 3 beaches in Kovalam – the Hawah Beach, Lighthouse Beach and Samudra Beach. The most famous is the Lighthouse Beach. The red and white striped lighthouse is open for two hours in the afternoon for visitors to climb up to the observatory platform.  Surfboards are rented out at the beach resorts for tourists looking for adventure and the traditional catamaran is also there. The best time to visit Kovalam beach is from November to March.

How to reach:

By Air: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport – 15 kms

By Rail: Thampanur Railway Station, Thiruvanathapuram – 15 kms.

2. Varkala Beach

 Varkala Beach, Top 5 beaches in Kerala

 Varkala beach is located in Varkala , 50 kms. north of Thiruvananthapuram. It is also known by the name Papanasam beach. ‘Papanasam’ means washing away the sins. It is believed that a dip in the waters here will wash away one’s sins. It is a very popular tourist destination. The long winding stretch of cliffs that extends to the Arabian Sea is the what makes the beach unique. There are beach shacks and quaint little shops that border the cliffs. The sunsets here are known to be stunning. The mineral spring that flows from the cliffs at the southern end of the beach is known to have medicinal properties.

The beach is divided into two – one is the tourist beach, then there is also the black beach. It is called the black beach because of the black sand. The other one is the Papanasam beach where people come to perform the last rites. The best time to visit this beach is from late November to March.

How to reach:

By Air: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport – 66 kms

By Rail: Varkala Railway Station

3. Payyambalam Beach, Kannur

Payyambalam Beach, Kannur, Top 5 beaches in Kerala

Payyambalam beach is again another hotspot of the tourists. Located 2 kms. from Kannur, there is a beautiful garden near the beach. A part of the garden is specially designed for children. The sculpture of Mother and Child in the garden is an added attraction. It is a quiet and secluded beach. The best time to visit this beach is from October to May. The beach is clean and safe.

How to reach:

By Air: Karipur International Airport, Kozhikode – 90 kms.

By Rail: Kannur - 2 kms

4. Kappad Beach, Kozhikode

Kappad Beach, Kozhikode, Top 5 beaches in Kerala

This is the beach where the Portugese explorer Vasco De Gama landed. This established the searoute between India and Europe. Hence this is a beach of historical significance. A stone monument is built there in remembrance of his arrival.

Stone Monument in Kappad Beach

This beach is the gateway of the Malabar coast. It’s a small fishing village. The beach is full of rocks and the locals call it Kappakadavu. The tourists can take a ride through the backwaters of Korappuzha river and reach the beach. The beach is really wide and beautiful with two piers extending into the sea.

How to reach:

By Air: Karipur International Airport, Kozhikode – 23 kms

By Rail: Kozhikode – 16 kms

5.  Bekal Beach, Kasargod

Bekal Beach, Kannur, Top 5 beaches in Kerala

Bekal beach is another famous tourist destination. It is 15 kms from Kasargod. The sandy beaches, rising waves and swaying palm trees are enough to attract any tourist. The beach near the Bekal fort is shallow and has been developed for tourists. This beach again has historical significance because of its proximity to the Bekal fort. There are piles of granite stones on the shallow areas of the beach. That makes a good sitting place for the visitors.

There is a Bekal Aqua Park 2 kms from the beach. There are some exciting rides like horse cart, paddle boat, camel ride , water cycle etc. The best time to visit this beach is from September to February.

How to reach:

By Air: Mangalore International Airport, Karipur International Airport, Kozhikode

By Rail: Kasargod Railway Station

1. Cycling Trails

 One of the best ways to explore Kerala is by going on a  cycling trail. These trails are being promoted to spread the awareness of bio-diversity, fauna and flora of the State.The essence, greenery, exotic landscape, diversity and the natural charm of Kerala can be experienced properly if one goes on a cycling trails.  Kerala with its aromatic plantations, sandy beaches and misty hills provide a lot of adventure for many tourists.  The Western Ghats in Kerala is an adventure playground for bikers and cyclists. The natural bumps and curves of the Ghats give them a lot of exhilaration.

Cycling, Top 3 Adventure Activities in Kerala

The cycling trail is a very different way of seeing Kerala and it makes lot of difference on how the places are perceived. And it takes you through the Kerala village life where the rustic charm can be felt naturally. Whether it’s the cardamom trail or the spice trail or beach and backwater trail, it rides you through the sheer beauty of Kerala and its unique culture.  All cycling  tours are fully guided. The support vehicles carry the luggage. They provide you with a place to rest and also first aid if required. 

2. Water Sports 

Water Sports, Top 3 adventure activites in Kerala

Catamaran Sailing

Catamaran sailing is completely different from other sailing. It is much more thrilling and adventurous than any other sailing. The word Catamaran means ‘wooden logs’. Catamaran is a boat with twin hull. This small wooden yacht is used for sailing near the beach waters. Nowadays, both motorized and sail driven boats are available in the main beaches. The backwaters and beaches of Kerala provide an excellent sport for catamaran sailing. Alappuzha, Varkala, Kovalam are the main beaches currently providing the thrills of catamaran sailing. Most of these are conducted from Kochi to Alappuzha. This an adventure sport that is catching up among the tourists coming into the State.

 Kayaking

The International Canoe Federation defines kayaking as a  boat where the paddler faces forward, legs in front, using a double bladed paddle to paddle along the waters. These kayaks have closed decks, although you can find many sit on top kayaks as well as inflatable which do not have decks but air chambers surrounding the kayaks. The areas around Alappuzha and the beaches of Varkala and Kovalam are hotspots for this adventure sport. They have programs for a day and for five days. The tourists also have the maximum opportunity to experience the village hospitality of Kerala.

 Canoeing

Canoeing is the new face of Kerala tourism. It is a great way to explore Kerala. The canoe trip lets you explore the beautiful lagoons, meandering rivers, the unique backwaters and canals. A canoe can accommodate two people. There are more and more tourists who want to experience the sheer enchantment of Kerala by canoeing through the backwaters. The relaxed life of Kerala villagers can be experienced .  The main canoeing destinations in Kerala are Alappuzha backwaters, Kollam backwaters and Kovalam beach.

 Parasailing

Parasailing

Parasailing is again another adventure sport that is gaining popularity especially amongst youngsters. Kerala has a lot of water bodies, beaches, backwaters, lakes and rivers that has made this sport popular. Parasailing can be done any time except monsoon. Many beach resorts and sports club arrange parasailing for tourists. It can be done by anyone except that they should know swimming. The Varkala beach and Alappuzha beach offer parasailing. The best season to enjoy parasailing in Kerala would be from October to March.

3. Trekking

Kerala has 12 wildlife sanctuaries and two national parks. These sanctuaries  national parks and the Western Ghats is an ideal place for trekkers. Trekking through the lushness and greenery of Kerala is a beautiful experience. Trekking along the Western Ghats is very adventurous  because of the thick green forests. Some of the important places for trekking are:

Chembra Peak, Wayanad, Top 3 Adventure Activities in Kerala

Agastyarkoodam Peak: Cone shaped, this peak has an altitude of 1868 m above the sea level. It 61 kms. from Thiruvananthapuram. They can trek from Neyyar Dam and Bonacaud.

Chembra Peak, Wayanad: It is located 2100 m above the sea level. What makes this peak unique is the lake at the top. This peak is one of the finest places for trekking in the State.

Pythal Mala, Kannur: Located 4500 m above sea level, it’s a beautiful view from this place. This is a very popular hill resort for tourists who come for trekking.

Tips for Trekkers:

Choose the correct footwear

Start trekking early. Trek at your own pace

Do not leave the group and wander on your own

Always wear a hat

Take extra pairs of socks

Keep yourself hydrated. Drink lots and lots of water

 Top 3 adventure activities in Kerala, trekking through the mist

1. Munnar

Tea Garden, Munnar

Munnar is also known as the Kashmir of the South. It is a beautiful hill station. The calm and serene ambiance coupled with the scenic beauty makes it a top destination for honeymoon couples. There are a lot of ways to spend the time in an idyllic manner – nature walks, boating, trekking, etc. The Munnar resorts provide the setting to make it a memorable honeymoon destination.

How to reach:

By Air: Nearest airport is Kochi international airport – 125 kms.

By Rail: Aluva – 110 kms. and Theni in Tamil Nadu – 60 kms.

By Road: Connected well by government and private bus services

2. Kumarakom

 Kettuvallom (house boat), Kumarakom

Kumarakom is a small village located on the banks of Vembanad Lake. It’s picturesque and has a lot of activities for tourists. The cruise in the backwaters in the house boat is a romantic as well as a very unique experience. The lifestyle in the villages on the banks of the lake can be witnessed while going in the house boat. The serenity and the calmness of the backwaters can be addictive. And for couples on a honeymoon , they are wrapped in a world of their own. The local fishermen arrange canoes to go the bird sanctuary in Kumarakom. It is again a tryst with nature , experiencing the blissful surroundings.

How to reach:

By Air:

Nearest Airport: 

3. Kovalam Beach

Kovalam Beach, Thiruvananthapuram

Kovalam Beach is one of the finest beaches in the world. It is one of the favorite beaches for honeymooning couples. It’s beauty of this crescent and shallow beach is spectacular and it is now a global destination thronged by millions of local as well as international tourists. The lighthouse beach is the most popular of the three beaches here. The lighthouse located there flashes its light intermittently and that add up to the surreal charm of the night sea. Catamaran cruising and surfing are two activities that attract tourists apart from swimming and sun bathing.

How to reach:

By Air: Nearest airport is Thiruvanthapuram – 15 kms. from Kovalam beach

By Rail: Thampanur Railway Station , Thiruvanthapuram - 15 kms. from Kovalam beach

By Road: Thiruvanathapuram is easily accessible by road

4. Kochi

Cheenawala (Chinese Fishing Nets), Kochi

 Termed as the Queen of the Arabian Sea, Kochi is again on the global map for tourists. It’s got an old world charm coupled with scenic beaches and beautiful backwaters. That gives the  tourist a lot of options to choose from while visiting Kochi. And that also makes it a top honeymoon spot. The water birds, wild flowers, swaying coconuts trees make the backwater cruise exotic.

How to reach: 

By Air: Kochi International Airport – 20 kms.

By Rail: Ernakulam Town Station – 9 kms.

By Road: Kochi is connected well by road.

5. Thekkady

Thekkady

Thekkady is an perfect destination sport for couple on honeymoon who are looking for some action and adventure. The main attraction there is the Periyar wildlife sanctuary and the Periyar Tiger Reserve. The  rich fauna, wilderness, gushing streams, plantations and elephant herds make Thekkady a great honeymoon destination.

How to reach:

By Air: Madurai Airport – 140 kms., Kochi International Airport – 190 kms.

By Rail: Kottayam Railway Station – 114 kms.

By Road: KSRTC buses operate from Kumily to Thekkady.

Where else could you get your Ammachy to give you a great massage with pure coconut oil, where else could you get smoked fish fry and where else could you get to climb the cocoa tree in search of ripe cocoa pods.These and much more have played a deep bonding in my love for Kerala and a yearning to be out and experience the country-side.

A bi-cycle like any other kid was my favorite time-pass as well. Tuitions, loafing and flirting were a part and parcel of the same. It was a single-speed (gear-less) in the beginning which helped me be that much more fit and happy. Geared bi-cycles were seldom seen, they were rare and expensive but quick and impressive. I yearned to have one for quite sometime.

Sooner although later, when friends at work took loans to buy their first motor-bike here was a bi-cycle lover opting to take a loan to buy his first multi-speed bi-cycle. Of course it created a hue and cry around. And yes, I enjoyed the ‘hoop-la’ all the more. There has been no stopping since and the bi-cycle has changed the way people see me and indeed helped me enjoy our beautiful land in peace and harmony.

Doesn’t it take more than words to explain the boat races in Champakulam, flooding canals of Pindimana, the birds’ chirp of Thattekad, the trees of Neriamangalam, the hillocs of Devikulam, tea pickers in Chinnakanal, spices in Vandiperiyar, the fresh air in Kattapana, wildlife in Thekkady, plantations in Peermade, rubber trees of Teekoy, rolling hills of Vagamon, paddy-fields of Kuttanad, coir factories at Muhamma, fisher folk at Azheekal, elephants at Guruvayoor, Chinese nets of Kochi, monuments at Kodungaloor, estates of Konni, butterflies in Thenmala and yoga in Aranmula.

Do all this on a bi-cycle and be sure to feel and see a different Kerala, a Kerala that’s rustic, pure and real. Get personal and talk to the fisherman, wave out to women making lunch on an open fire, take pictures with tea pickers, dine with planters, get tips from Ayurveda specialists, fascinate your senses with the aroma of fresh spices, search the wild for rare species, make your own blend of tea, learn coir making from locals in their make-shift tents, enjoy the fragrance of the eucalyptus and play in the warm surf and sand.

For similar experiences join us on a bi-cycle journey offering you a holiday that’s not only amazing but enchanting and enthralling as well.

By: Ashwin Thomas Polachirackal

KERALA BICYCLE TRIPS

1. Munnar

 Tea Garden, Munnar

Munnar is also known as the ‘Kashmir of the South’ due to it’s enchanting beauty. There are some waterfalls and trekking paths for the adventurous tourists. The tea and coffee plantations coupled with the lush mountains add to the beauty of the  place. Located at 1600m above sea level, this was once the the summer resort of the erstwhile British administration in south India. The famous ‘Neelkurinji’ flower blooms here once in 12 years

How to reach:

Nearest Airport -  Cochin 105Kms

Nearest Railway Station – Aluva

2. Wayanad

Ghat Road, Wayanad

Wayanad with its winding roads flanked by thick forests is nature at its very best. There are many areas in Wayanad that attracts tourists.The Muthanga wildlife sanctuary located at the heart of Wayanad has animals like the Indian elephant, spotted dear, bison, tiger and leopard can be seen in their natural habitat if you are lucky. For adventure tourists there are a lot of trekking spots. The resorts give you an opportunity to experience oneness with nature. The Edakkal caves, bamboo forests, ,Muthangal and Pakshipathalam are places to be visited on one’s trip to Wayanad.

How to reach:

Nearest Airport :  Calicut 109 Kms

Nearest Railwaystaion : Calicut

Road : NH 212 (Kozhikode-Mysore) passes via Kalpetta and Sulthan Bathery.

3. Thiruvananthapuram

Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Thiruvananthapuram

Thiruvananthapuram is the capital city of Kerala. It’s a must visit for any tourist visiting the State. One of the finest beaches in India , Kovalam is an hour’s drive from the city. Varkala another pilgrimage center and beach is easily accessible from Thiruvananthapuram. .Kanyakumari is the only place in India where you can see both sunrise and sunset. It is only a two hour ride away from Trivandrum. Apart from these places , Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple and the hill station are also places of tourist interest.

How to reach:

By Air: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport. Direct flights connect Thiruvananthapuram to major Indian cities like Bangalore, Mumbai, Chennai and Delhi, and those in neighboring countries such as Colombo, Malé, and Singapore.

By Rail: The main railhead is the Central Railway Station at Thampanoor, which links Thiruvananthapuram to important cities of the state as well as the country.

By Road: An excellent network of roads connects Thiruvananthapuram to all major towns and cities in South India, especially to Kollam, Alleppey, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Chennai, Madurai and Pondicherry. The Central Bus station is situated adjacent to the Central Railway Station at Thampanoor.

4. Kumarakom

Kumarakom

Kumarakom is known as the Venice of the East. The mangrove trees, covered lagoons and house boats excite any traveler visiting there. Staying in the ‘Kettuvallom’ is an experience for anyone. One can taste the typical Kerala cuising while on a houseboat. Life slows down in Kumarakom and one has a relaxing holiday away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Kumarakom is an ideal place for bird watchers and for tourists looking for ayurvedic treatments. Vembanad Lake one of the longest lakes in Kerala is also here.

How to reach:

By Road: From the Cochin International Airport it is an 85 Km delightful ride by road to the Muhamma boat Jetty.

By Rail: Nearest Railway station- Kottayam – 16Kms

5. Thekkady

Thekkady

Thekkady is again one of the places where one can observe wildlife. It is one of India’s largest wildlife sanctuary. This place is ideal for wildlife photography.Thekkady forests are home to tigers, elephants, sambar and many other endangered species. If one is lucky enough, one can spot a tiger or a leopard. Boating through the lake is a very pleasant experience. One can observe many waterbirds at close range. This sanctuary is spread over an area of 777 Sq.Kms, surrounded by an artificial lake over an area of 25 Sq.Kms. Boating in the lake is an enjoyable experience. Thekkady is considered a heaven for natural spices such as clove, cinnamon, cardamom and black pepper.

How to reach:

Nearest Airport:  Cochin -190 Kms

Nearest Railway station: Kottayam-110 Kms

6. Kochi

Chinese Fishing Nets, Kochi

Kochi is the financial and commercial capital of Kerala. It is also known as the Queen of Arabia. It is one of the main places of tourism for foreigners in Kerala. It is connected by rail, road and air to all the major towns and places. You can experience both the backwaters and sea here. The famous Bolgatty Palace and the Jewish Synagogue are situated on the banks of the lagoons.

The Chinese fishing nets are found only here in India. The old towns Fort Kochi and Mattancherry also attract a lot of foreign tourists. These old towns are popular for its spice markets, Chinese fishing nets, a synagogue, a Portuguese palace, India’s first European church and seventeenth-century Dutch homes. The Thripunithura Palace is one of the biggest of its kind in the whole of Kerala.

7. Thrissur

                                    Thrissur Pooram, Thrissur

Thrissur is the cultural capital of Kerala and the fourth largest city of the State. Thrissur Pooram , one of the biggest festivals in India happens here in April/May. It starts with the ceremonial flag hoisting (Kodiyettam) by various participating temples. The city is also famous for the traditional Kerala art forms like Kathakali. The two major waterfalls of Kerala, Athirappally and Vazhachal are only a few hours ride from the city.

Thrissur is one of the major manufacturing centers of rolled gold and plain gold jewelery in South India. 70% of Kerala’s jewelery is manufactured in Thrissur. It is also the largest hub of Ayurveda drug manufacturing in Kerala.

 How to reach:

The city is well connected by road and rail.

By Air:  Cochin Airport -60Kms

8. Vagamon

Vagamon

Vagamon is located on the Kerala – Tamil Nadu border in Kottayam district. It is an ideal place to spend vacations. It is 1000m above sea level and a cool place. The beauty of the place is the long stretch of hillocks with grass and a lake in the middle. The pine forests nearby are hotspots for honeymooning couples. The Kurishumala church atop a hill is a famous pilgrimage place and the trekking to the church is a very adventurous task.

How to reach:

By Air: Cochin International Airport – 120 kms, Thiruvananthapuram International Airport – 267 kms., Madurai – 210 kms.

By Rail: Kottayam – 64 kms., Madurai – 149 kms

By Road: Direct bus links to/from Thiruvananthapuram, Cochin, Kottayam, Munnar & Madurai

9. Kollam

Kollam

Kollam is famous for being known as the leading trade capital of the Old World. It is also the center of the country’s cashing trading and processing industry. Thirty percent of this town is covered by the Ashtamudi lake. That makes it the gateway to the backwaters of Kerala. Boating in the Ashtamudi Lake is a great experience. The momentous decision to introduce the new Malayalam era was convened at Kollam. Hence the name ‘Kollavarsham’.

How to reach:

By Air: Thiruvananthapuram – 70 kms

Kollam town is well connected by rail and road

10. Agastyarkoodam

Agastyarkoodam

Apart from being a thrilling place to visit, Agastyarkoodam has an interesting historic past. It is also known as Agastya Malai. Agastyarkoodam gets its name from the legend and the Great Sage Agastyar who meditated from this peak, where a small temple stands in remembrance and devotion to this great saint. Positioned in Western Ghats, Agastyar Biosphere Reserve is spread over two States and three districts – Thiruvanathapuram and Kollam Districts in Kerala and Thirunelveli District in Tamil Nadu. Agastyarkoodam attracts both trekkers and pilgrims. The peak remains open in the name of pilgrimage for a short span of about one and a half months that falls anytime between the period of December and April, as decided by the forest department. The forest officials fully regulate the trek.

Agastyar bio-reserve is a natural herbal garden, home to thousands of rare herbal plants. Agastyar Munni, considered as the father of Siddha system of medicine, the first Siddhar(Siddha Practitioner is also known to have contributed highly to martial art forms like Silambam and Kalarippayattu, both oldest forms of martial arts that are still practiced. Even today, some martial art practitioners and certain people of Tamil Nadu worship him.

How to reach :

Nearest Airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport is about 70 km away from Agastyarkoodam.

Nearest Railhead: Thampanur railway station in Thiruvananthapuram is an important rail head of the Southern Railway and is well linked to major towns up country is just 70 km away from Agastyarkoodam.

Road: There is motorable road to the Agastyarkoodam which is well connected by regular bus services from Thiruvananthapuram city.

Wildlife, Western Ghats

Over 5000 species of flowering plants, 139 mammal species, 508 bird species and 179 amphibian species are said to be there in the Western Ghats. Many endangered and undiscovered species are also said to be found here. This  mountain borders and runs through five States in India. It covers approximately 1,60,000 sq km and runs nearly 1600 km.

Pamba River

40% of its ranges lie in Kerala.  Among the 44 rivers of Kerala 41 originate from the Western Ghats. Kerala has the highest point (Anamudi in Idukki District) in the Western Ghats.  Anamudi is also the highest peak south of the Himalayas in India. Coffee, tea and cardamom plantations are found around these moist-deciduous and evergreen forests. India’s largest elephant population is seen here.

Mist, The Western Ghats

 The lush greenery of the Western Ghats is home to many sanctuaries. These wildlife reserves are home to many species of birds and animals. The Begur Wildlife Sanctuary, The Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary, The Eravikulam National Park,  Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary, Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, Peechi Vazhani Wildlife, Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary, Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary, The Silent Valley National Park, Shenduruny Wildlife Sanctuary and Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary.

Wildlife Sanctuary, Western Ghats

This flower is immortalized in the Tamil poem, Red Earth and Pouring Rain written during Sangam literature. The flower is used as a metaphor for the union of lovers. This flower grows abundantly in the Shola grasslands of the Western Ghats. The Nilgiri Hills got its name blue mountains from this flower because of it’s purplish blue shade.

Neelakurinji, Munnar

Not many people get a chance to see the flower when it’s in full bloom. It bloomed last in the year 2006 in Munnar. It is said that around ten lakh tourists visited Munnar when the flower bloomed. The next time Munnar will be carpeted with mauve will be in 2018. This flower has become a symbol of bio-diversity of the Western Ghats. The flowering season ranges between August and November with a peak period of late September and October.

Swarms of bees appear when these flowers bloom. The flowers are actually pale blue when they bloom. Later on they turn into purplish blue when they get aged. Though the massive flowering happens only once in twelve years, Neelakurinji flowers are found in small amouts here and there in the Western Ghats.

The most important features of this fort are the water tank with its flight of steps, wide steps leading to the Observatory, the opening of the tunnel towards the south and the magazine for keeping ammunition. The moats around the fort and the zigzag entrance throws light on the defense strategy prevalent during those days. Sea viewing is done from the observatory tower. The fort was built exclusively for defense purposes. Bekal fort served as an important military station for Tipu Sultan’s army when he led his military expedition to capture Malabar. The fort later on fell into the hands of the British.

The view of the Arabian Sea from the fort is beautiful. The stretch of beach is for 2 kms and it has been developed as a beach resort. The fort area is quiet except for the sound of waves from the sea.

Photo Credits: Vishak Abraham

How to reach:

Nearest major railway stations are Kasargod and Kanhangad, both are about 14 and 16 km km away from Bekal. Nearby Kottikulam and Pallikere have railway stations with stops only for local trains.