tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-209935692024-03-04T04:22:54.489-08:00Kerala TouristKerala Travel Blog: Embark on a journey through God's Own Country...Prince Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10920362374578614296noreply@blogger.comBlogger47125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20993569.post-23530785953145590552012-11-19T17:38:00.001-08:002012-11-19T17:57:11.619-08:00Nature, Adventure and Wagamon<br />
Wagamon, a celebrated, but less frequented destination in Kerala tourist map is a great destination for nature lovers, adventurers, and everyone who loves nature in its purest shape.<br />
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A visit to this place was well worth it because it is one of the tourist destinations, where you can listen to the birds, enjoy the stillness and explore some great adventures, including a climb to one of the tallest peaks in South India.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW_WKm10RxT2ZajFbP5t9W5m3VPnhefddJcE25_jgHdVSQb_psAe7mPO5jIlr7lKIz3Iay8PN5ZdbQxOhGttu2LwP_-jsSKH6jS4aqYCNOtcctmrGwo855Hd-aK8dFWNu5FN67/s1600/4322-Wagamon-Kerala.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="145" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW_WKm10RxT2ZajFbP5t9W5m3VPnhefddJcE25_jgHdVSQb_psAe7mPO5jIlr7lKIz3Iay8PN5ZdbQxOhGttu2LwP_-jsSKH6jS4aqYCNOtcctmrGwo855Hd-aK8dFWNu5FN67/s400/4322-Wagamon-Kerala.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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The main points of interest near Wagamon are the <strong>Pine Valley</strong>, where pine trees grow sky-high in an area of 125 acres, <strong>Mottakkunnu</strong> (bald-headed hills - 14 of them), <strong>Thangal Para</strong> (a rocky mountain perched at 8000 ft above sea level), <strong>Kurisumala</strong>, and a dairy farm.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFrN6U_fYIrHX50so9-lp8E6vCwmCTGSOeXYFdwGnWaa3qGtz3sc2GZk3raLG08klF4sAzoMxZ5HxAEvSdmh681Y_3V_jYIKsbM_1YJrDmxEW6askwqT9M092H6BiyZ3pp84HE/s1600/4205-Lake-at-Wagamon.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFrN6U_fYIrHX50so9-lp8E6vCwmCTGSOeXYFdwGnWaa3qGtz3sc2GZk3raLG08klF4sAzoMxZ5HxAEvSdmh681Y_3V_jYIKsbM_1YJrDmxEW6askwqT9M092H6BiyZ3pp84HE/s320/4205-Lake-at-Wagamon.JPG" width="320" /></a>Apart from them, we stopped at several places on a whim, and
each stop proved to be a great new exploration. Lucky for us, we stopped at
several places and each stop proved to be a fine destination of its own. Sadly,
I can't tell you the names of the places because the places were deserted and
there weren't any sign boards telling what the places are.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I can tell you we stopped by a tea-estate en-route to
Wagamon, from where we could get a good look at the morning rays seeping
through the mist, the long winding roads, the township from a distance, an
abandoned tea-factory, and rolling hills far and near. Again we stopped by a
tiny lake, a meadow with a circular shaped church on one side, and in the midst
of nowhere when a herd of cows blocked our car. The cows walk on the roads;
gives milk to the locals and don't care much when we ask them to move away from
the road.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<strong>Mottakkunnu</strong><o:p></o:p></div>
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This is the only place where you have to pay an entry fee -
Rs 5 per person, known as <strong>Wagamon Meadows and Hideout</strong>, a series of 14 green top
hills. On one side there is a small lake, where several hundreds of tiny fish
will give you company when you bathe there.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<strong>Pine Valley</strong><o:p></o:p></div>
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One of the biggest pine forests in Kerala, Pine Valley
Wagamon offers a special treat. In an area of 125 acres, there are thousands
and thousands of pine trees, each one reaching up to the skies. The air was
still and the sight magnificent as we walked along the trees, taking a fresh
breathe and marveling the beauty of this man-made forest.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I strongly doubt I have seen both the Mottakkunnu and Pine
Valley in several films I have watched. They are beautiful.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<strong>Adventure Point</strong> (Also suicide point)<o:p></o:p></div>
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And, next we stopped by the suicide point, where you will
find hills even bigger than what you find at Mottakkunnu. Green grass blankets
the hills and it is special experience scaling the hills, listening to the wind
and feeling on top of the world.<o:p></o:p></div>
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They say this is the place for paragliding adventures. We
didn't find any gliders, though.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<strong>Thangal Para</strong><o:p></o:p></div>
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It is a mountain. You can reach the top without any steep
climb. You can walk along the marked paths and reach the top of the rocky
mountain. The wind is strong, and you feel like flying. Be extra careful, the
rocks are dangerous. And, you are standing at a height of 7000 to 8000 ft above
sea level.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Keep in mind there is a Mosque, and the place is a pilgrim
center.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<strong>Kurisumala & Murukan Mala</strong><o:p></o:p></div>
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Kurisu (cross) and Murukan (a Hindu deity) hills, face each
other. Climbing them is not an easy task. Trek your way up the Kurisumala and
the rewards are freshness of air, a feeling of on top of the world and the
thrills of adventure.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Dairy Farm Near Kurisumala - Ask for permission to visit
this dairy farm, where you will be amazed at the sights of the cows, bulls and
the place in which they live.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Well, that was all in a day's trip. And, we started our
journey back home.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Travel Tips:<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX-5DGToAkGAOX0237dCNTG1jGzgFVfX_0-fjWAKZC5TZN3EMjzoizBSI5YVnmPcqhmt8Wurj5ayWpCUJtScOlCaZU6GPaz2Hdq5prTyX_10PTga0kh2N-ErPw7aIJm9Uq-A8h/s1600/house1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX-5DGToAkGAOX0237dCNTG1jGzgFVfX_0-fjWAKZC5TZN3EMjzoizBSI5YVnmPcqhmt8Wurj5ayWpCUJtScOlCaZU6GPaz2Hdq5prTyX_10PTga0kh2N-ErPw7aIJm9Uq-A8h/s320/house1.JPG" width="320" /></a>It may be just me, but I found it very difficult locating
restaurants or decent hotels. They are very few. So, it is a nice idea carrying
your food, water and snacks.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I also didn't find a fuel station. There sure will be some
petrol/diesel pumps nearby. Only we didn't see any.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The places described above are the most frequented places
nearby Wagamon. There also are several, little-frequented stops along the way.
Such stops offer beautiful sights, fresh air and great opportunities to shoot
postcard perfect photos.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Prince Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10920362374578614296noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20993569.post-81906444055364532842012-03-12T20:42:00.000-07:002012-03-12T20:42:31.574-07:00Weekend Trip to Alappuzha BackwatersI doubt if I am a real traveller because at times I don't go anywhere special for a long time. Last Saturday was different and I decided to take my lovely wife on a trip through the pristine backwaters of Kerala. We stayed inside a boat plying between Kottayam and Alappuzha, for almost the whole day. Travelling from Kottayam to Alappuzha costs only Rs.10/- per person and we had a great day, enjoying the fresh air, greenery and the most relaxed travel experience of quite some time.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXmnzBjaVre4q_jAQigJZlfiIMUVUeunsxieFQWn0MTrZOVdxOWxDyY4Qml3Zfw7s_modOEQQIAyIsxGfa4X3Ous-MZXpYc01xbWgIcjMTQYaxwhWOnZVb4ajCW0eiiyD2Deaf/s1600/water-bird8.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXmnzBjaVre4q_jAQigJZlfiIMUVUeunsxieFQWn0MTrZOVdxOWxDyY4Qml3Zfw7s_modOEQQIAyIsxGfa4X3Ous-MZXpYc01xbWgIcjMTQYaxwhWOnZVb4ajCW0eiiyD2Deaf/s200/water-bird8.JPG" title="A bird in Vembanad Lake" width="120" /></a>Well, the boat left Kottayam (Kodimatha is the place) at 11.30 AM and reached Alappuzha (Aleppey) at 2.00 PM. The boat would return in 30 minutes. <br />
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In between, we fully enjoyed the still waters and felt once again marvelled at the sight of farmlands situated below water levels. I wonder how on earth do they keep water away at the paddy fields of R-Block or Kuttanad stretch. The water, on which the boats ply just don't ooze into the paddy fields. I wonder how they keep it that way.<br />
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The lake (Vembanad Lake) contains several islands, which have day restaurants, from where you can enjoy some Kuttanadan delicacies including 'Karimeen' (pearl spot fish), 'Konchu' (freshwater shrimp), 'Kappa' (tapioca), and a lot more. For boozing, there is 'kallu' (toddy). The abundance of coconut palms make sure there is no shortage of this natural liquor. (Well, my wife is a vegetarian and we had a super quick meal at a vegetarian restaurant near the boat yard in Alappuzha).<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_7mz0fHr7GZYPjbyOTU8t1rB_obIAkJZZAqwEJn-B61yS_-aKuEVl30BvBmKR3DHVUHxXtoPbZMOPqI2ncashAymaLqOTH-PZnTAUZmjx_y4FyWLVi29zePXesIVZPPwsInSM/s1600/a-houseboat.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_7mz0fHr7GZYPjbyOTU8t1rB_obIAkJZZAqwEJn-B61yS_-aKuEVl30BvBmKR3DHVUHxXtoPbZMOPqI2ncashAymaLqOTH-PZnTAUZmjx_y4FyWLVi29zePXesIVZPPwsInSM/s400/a-houseboat.JPG" title="houseboat in Kerala Backwater" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A houseboat near a paddy field in Kuttanadu Backwaters</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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Well, I am posting a few photos of Vembanad Lake, the most famous of Kerala backwaters. The camera was new and I was not used to its function. I could salvage only a few of the 400 plus photos I have taken. So, please bear with me on the quality of the photos.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH-QUFwxlszffW37BJ3MhIjz7MzNi25VuQnMf801MUyq47qvPbjk8uWU7zZtF51yExpOiW6S55Y-lo6W3Py3SQ8_DilwfU5Q3FIg61UmhFhU0JZfXzLE_0pzOHEblVbAeWfp29/s1600/houseboat21.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="141" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH-QUFwxlszffW37BJ3MhIjz7MzNi25VuQnMf801MUyq47qvPbjk8uWU7zZtF51yExpOiW6S55Y-lo6W3Py3SQ8_DilwfU5Q3FIg61UmhFhU0JZfXzLE_0pzOHEblVbAeWfp29/s320/houseboat21.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Houseboats are aplenty in Alappuzha</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgLLKD9EZLMtQI8lVMJJUFZOHnBjlLdycbSomBzGe0X_UIazqsT-N9sRNAkcYgKwAAfMkhSIYmUllX9Ekd09bGSE637Q9EKeOWvVD9vO0ryO6QPpOxrg1gig5p3yCNpyQyvjHv/s1600/church1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="144" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgLLKD9EZLMtQI8lVMJJUFZOHnBjlLdycbSomBzGe0X_UIazqsT-N9sRNAkcYgKwAAfMkhSIYmUllX9Ekd09bGSE637Q9EKeOWvVD9vO0ryO6QPpOxrg1gig5p3yCNpyQyvjHv/s320/church1.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Church as seen from the boat</td></tr>
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OK guys, that is all for today and for a few weeks to come. Special thanks to all my readers who like my little blog called Kerala Traveller.Prince Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10920362374578614296noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20993569.post-49235210302449640042011-12-19T16:26:00.000-08:002011-12-19T17:52:52.774-08:00Bhoothathankettu - A Dam Built by Demons<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh1LpCv4tBZH6SGLaQJfxVRq7xHgFt0Mw-11nv-g-yF5i2jZH5nQftNXJrciujEopLn66zBq4fYaOc_pn8P7Satx42rCXE_da_a0V5PEoHG-dFg73qVD7hf0JMs6O_ExP7UvDI/s1600/bhootathan-kettu-dam.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh1LpCv4tBZH6SGLaQJfxVRq7xHgFt0Mw-11nv-g-yF5i2jZH5nQftNXJrciujEopLn66zBq4fYaOc_pn8P7Satx42rCXE_da_a0V5PEoHG-dFg73qVD7hf0JMs6O_ExP7UvDI/s320/bhootathan-kettu-dam.JPG" width="280" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bhooththankettu Dam</td></tr>
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Bhoothathankettu on Periyar River is a scenic spot, where legends come alive. It was a nice trekking and picnic experience to this scenic spot on the banks of a beautiful river, covered on both sides by thick green forests.<br />
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We reached the spot on Sunday morning and our guide, Thankappan, took us on a short trekking trip through the forest. He explained the forest covers more than 100,000 hectre. The forest is also home to almost all kinds of wild animals, including elephants, bears, tigers, and king of snakes - King Cobras.<br />
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<b>King Cobras' Natural Habitat</b><br />
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King Cobras caught from different parts of the state are let free in this forest and its population is quite high in this area. He reassures there haven't been a single attack by these kings against humans. And, there are a good number of humans inside the forest too.<br />
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Our guide was also an expert of plants & trees, especially climbers. The story of a particular climber named 'Chela' fascinated us. Birds like the fruits of this climber. The seeds would sprout only after going through a bird's intestine. However, the seed doesn't sprout if it falls on land. Its easy stage of life is on top of a tree. From there, there will be several roots running to the ground and branches growing upwards. The sad thing is, the climber will become a tree, killing the tree that has given it the space to grow. The climber will then become a tree, after eating its host.<br />
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Well, another attraction was a mineral water source. The water is tasty and pleasantly cold. I never liked cold water stored in fridge. The water here was cold, but not chilling. This water has medicinal properties too.<br />
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<b>A Cave for Adventurers</b><br />
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We come to expect caves in forests and this forest was no exception. A cave was there. Only one person can pass through the cave at a time. The guide explained there was one path leading directly into the earth. Legend has it, this is the path demons use to reach the nether land. Twenty minutes' crawling along the other path inside the cave is a thrilling experience if you are not afraid of bats and porcupines.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO5ciH-egd0D_6VPOfOF5d77NWVxPKFQU8BHC8xDjSiMyGc1nyQUOSOuzJynHnfM2q9yWXo5VdXbrISFdP17KiP_7WuF5mAE439YDaivYbjCklfZ5Foy4lfBD_0skqj60-YBKS/s1600/bhoothathankettu.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO5ciH-egd0D_6VPOfOF5d77NWVxPKFQU8BHC8xDjSiMyGc1nyQUOSOuzJynHnfM2q9yWXo5VdXbrISFdP17KiP_7WuF5mAE439YDaivYbjCklfZ5Foy4lfBD_0skqj60-YBKS/s400/bhoothathankettu.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Periyar is beautiful at Bhoothathankettu</td></tr>
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<b>The Legend of Bhoothathan Kettu</b><br />
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Legends tell you the natural dam-like structure was built by bhootham (demons, evil spirits, ghosts - I am not sure about the exact translation). Legend has it Lord Shiva and his consort Parvathi lived here. Once Shiva told his consort that he would return to her after one month's meditation. She waited for more than three months and her husband didn't return. So she went inquiring and found out the truth behind her husband's meditation.<br />
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He was having an affair with Ganges. Soon, there was a fight between Parvathi and Ganga. Shiva promptly absconded from the scene. Enraged, belittled and hurt, Parvati planned revenge against Ganga and her village. She conceived an idea.<br />
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He called the bhootas (demons) and gave them a quotation to build the dam across the wide river. This would change the course of the river and sweep Ganga's village, Trikkariyoor. Demons were afraid of Lord Shiva, but they didn't want to estrange the Goddess too. So they agreed to build a check dam across the river on one condition. They will build the dam until it is morning. They will stop working once it is dawn.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Demon Carrying Boulder</td></tr>
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The demons carried boulders from far and near and was building a dam. Lord Shiva understood this plot through his third eye (or was it sixth sense? I am not so sure). The dam was almost finished. Lord Shiva wanted to distract the demons to save his girlfriend's village. He took the shape of a rooster. When the dam was almost complete, he crawed 'cock-le-doo'. The demons thought it was dawn and they fled the scene without finishing the dam.<br />
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You can see huge boulders on both sides of the river (the demons brought them, but left before the dam is finished).<br />
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A few hundred meters down the man-made dam, you can see this 'almost finished' dam built by super human forces. The reality can be, floods brought boulders from atop the hills and dumped them at this place.<br />
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<b>A Nice Picnic All the Way</b><br />
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Believing or not, the legend was much more beautiful than the scientific explanation. Any way, it was a refreshing trip through the forest.<br />
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Later, we ate the lunch we brought with us on the banks of Periyar. The water was crystal clear, everyone took a dip, which lasted hours.<br />
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Boating is also available in the reservoir.<br />
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Nearby places are: Salim Ali National Park (bird sanctuary at Thattekkad), Idamalayar Dam and power house.<br />
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Bhoothathankettu at Google Maps: <a href="http://maps.google.com/maps?daddr=10.139566,76.668177&hl=en&ll=10.13644,76.668799&spn=0.011533,0.021136&sll=10.13606,76.668799&sspn=0.012293,0.021136&vpsrc=0&mra=mift&mrsp=1&sz=16&t=m&z=16">click here</a>!<br />
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<a href="http://www.keralatourism.org/destination/destination.php?id=286">More details</a> at official Kerala Tourism site.Prince Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10920362374578614296noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20993569.post-86575582686340772282011-09-25T09:32:00.000-07:002011-09-25T09:57:02.237-07:00Kumarakom Boating, Bird Sanctuary at Kottayam<br />
Located on the shores of Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary in Kottayam is touted as ornithologists' paradise. It will be a paradise of ornithologists only when the Siberian and other birds start arriving here in late November through late January.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiibR5JC_KxVTvkZzYt8Fw9TlXT4o8m0SxosRMmFLpPRVgrnO-pkZ0sH1OhU5MX0HJgh4p6tpoNe9LFZegC2oq2HN4o-MfraiXMPSUuUal3AlWwOO5sFEwoRXEZysFMABR3ktZu/s1600/inside-kumarakom-bird-sanctuary.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiibR5JC_KxVTvkZzYt8Fw9TlXT4o8m0SxosRMmFLpPRVgrnO-pkZ0sH1OhU5MX0HJgh4p6tpoNe9LFZegC2oq2HN4o-MfraiXMPSUuUal3AlWwOO5sFEwoRXEZysFMABR3ktZu/s400/inside-kumarakom-bird-sanctuary.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzfsAVx1Dsub7pmcG8kw3TtZn-r_koaSqZ5JT9PRLOTu-g4SClGVyv-_wNlk_Kj-tjCNo0Wr0NkbPaPLyYrPqQ2PrmKHtQ9UYHH_BGWttBs1TO0n2Bq8QwVu-FhM6Z_HSSW1wF/s1600/houseboat-kumarakom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzfsAVx1Dsub7pmcG8kw3TtZn-r_koaSqZ5JT9PRLOTu-g4SClGVyv-_wNlk_Kj-tjCNo0Wr0NkbPaPLyYrPqQ2PrmKHtQ9UYHH_BGWttBs1TO0n2Bq8QwVu-FhM6Z_HSSW1wF/s200/houseboat-kumarakom.jpg" width="200" /></a>I have visited the place two times. I haven't seen any birds on both occasions. Then again, I visited the place off season and I reached the place in the afternoon. Avid bird watchers (evidently I am not one) vouch to visit the sanctuary early in the morning to get a glimpse of birds leaving the nests in search of food. Maybe, I will visit this place once again while in season. In any case, the walk the paved path along the 14 acres of mangrove forest is a hearty experience.
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8FwvcC2UyXupaPdcanvJZVnXKv61eScgY6DSMag3PJEiqmukLq3NM6Am33GpFyq09oU_rnU3BjVR-2CjYrTGFH8-rBSreqT8z1R-zNOl0JAWkF81N_IPETPNMkMYo6zhDAVqC/s1600/kumarakom-boating-house-boat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8FwvcC2UyXupaPdcanvJZVnXKv61eScgY6DSMag3PJEiqmukLq3NM6Am33GpFyq09oU_rnU3BjVR-2CjYrTGFH8-rBSreqT8z1R-zNOl0JAWkF81N_IPETPNMkMYo6zhDAVqC/s200/kumarakom-boating-house-boat.jpg" width="200" /></a>If it is not raining, you can enjoy boating along the Vembanad Lake. There is also water routes connected to Kottayam and Alappuzha from Kumarakom. Boating is always a great experience. You can enjoy the cool tropical climate, rich water bodies, and splendid greenery.<br />
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<a href="http://maps.google.com/maps?q=kumarakom&hl=en&ll=9.574345,76.405449&spn=0.191952,0.338173&sll=10.835003,77.51907&sspn=0.005975,0.010568&vpsrc=6&t=m&z=12">Location @ Google Maps</a>Prince Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10920362374578614296noreply@blogger.com10Kumarakom, Kerala, India9.5820677 76.43895499.519439199999999 76.3599909 9.6446962 76.5179189tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20993569.post-66200197798188480302011-09-22T07:08:00.000-07:002011-09-22T07:08:17.152-07:00Tripunithura Hill Palace PhotosHere are a few photos I have taken while visiting Tripunithura Hill Palace, Ernakulam the other day. Read the post on <a href="http://kerala-traveller.blogspot.com/2011/09/tripunithura-hill-palace-kochi.html">Tripunithura Hill Palace</a>.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A view of Garden in front of Hill Palace, Kochi</td></tr>
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Getting out and seeing new places has been my hobby, for which I am dedicating very little time now a days.<br />
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However, when I feel like it, there nothing stopping me from getting out and reaching the place I plan to visit.<br />
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This visit to Tripunithura Hill Palace has been a very unplanned one.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXOSCedLZbKOLnLespffp9RX4biN9PkDztPk37vO926U75st5EptTji_3KJaAaclEOACZ1IQjDak3nDnuLkVxGDihCtIO_ApUWJNOB2jrXoLDQVyVUtunDBXoPA7clD7yR2oAL/s1600/DSC00313.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXOSCedLZbKOLnLespffp9RX4biN9PkDztPk37vO926U75st5EptTji_3KJaAaclEOACZ1IQjDak3nDnuLkVxGDihCtIO_ApUWJNOB2jrXoLDQVyVUtunDBXoPA7clD7yR2oAL/s320/DSC00313.JPG" width="320" /></a><br />
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There seems more than few dozen buildings - all built in the traditional architecture style.<br />
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One of the buildings had a thularithara (a platform to grow a tulsi (holy basil) plant, which is a common sight of old houses in the state.<br />
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The plant has great medicinal values.<br />
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The carpenters would have done a great job, making the frames on which to lay the tiles. Under the tiled roof, you don't need AC to escape from the boiling sun.<br />
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The photograph on the left and the one above that shows the path from inside the palace to the pond, where the palace people used take a bath.<br />
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By the sight of it, the original of this structure was damaged and destroyed, replaced with a relatively new one.<br />
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A scene from the garden. click to see it big.<br />
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Another scene of the garden. It is simply great.<br />
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A side of the palace.<br />
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Tripunithura Hill Palace is welcoming with the exteriors filled with plants.<br />
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A view of the hill palace.<br />
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The terraced garden of Tripunithura hill palace. You can see the place on the background.<br />
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The trees in the compound keeps it cool, even under sun.<br />
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<br />Prince Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10920362374578614296noreply@blogger.com2Tripunithura, Kerala, India9.949587 76.344489.9183075 76.304998 9.9808665 76.383962000000011tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20993569.post-71053513693212324082011-09-20T19:57:00.000-07:002011-09-22T07:37:40.919-07:00Tripunithura Hill Palace, Kochi<br />
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Last Sunday was a nice day with a quick visit to
Tripunithura Hill Palace, the largest archaeological museum in Kerala.</div>
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We reached the place at around 12 noon. Being advised the
museum will be closed at 12.30, we (my wife, Seeja and I) decided to explore
the expansive terrace garden. We could enjoy the interiors at leisure when it
reopens at 2PM.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPcN8NDyV_vpCqheUXWlW5muXHpRb0H5mXb9aKRnKjFcrehbVw7xVFcbElZsCjlJFFonPWUBDUwtR5U4nm3ZKuI5YjjgnjafnyCUCXfKr80RGR1IcC1UgrYWH-mLqTYIW8iesL/s1600/front-of-tripunithura-hill-palace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPcN8NDyV_vpCqheUXWlW5muXHpRb0H5mXb9aKRnKjFcrehbVw7xVFcbElZsCjlJFFonPWUBDUwtR5U4nm3ZKuI5YjjgnjafnyCUCXfKr80RGR1IcC1UgrYWH-mLqTYIW8iesL/s400/front-of-tripunithura-hill-palace.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Front view of Tripunithura Hill Palace, Kochi</td></tr>
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The garden, although showing signs of wear and inattention, is
wonderful with several thousands of plants and hundreds of trees. I think they
have planted several plants of medicinal value.</div>
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There was a place to buy plants too. The claim was you can
buy any variety of plants from here, but was disappointed with the dismal
collection of plants for sale.</div>
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Luckily, you can take photographs of the garden. (You can't
take camera or any electronic gadget inside the museum).</div>
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The compound houses a deer park, where we saw visitors
feeding fallen leaves to the deer. I wonder if feeding the animals is permitted
anywhere else. Then again, it is a nice sight to see the large herd of spotted
deer.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVUdzCbtPrvrbWWJYLZXe2DpbTu49-0Fq47e-IypwHiZcEmcccrB7zWevfgj5Gp3ZlUFlJW_XpnEXUwanrAHOqroTpUNkxWO04qG-2vmiDCesK2LTvju8RkAGi8nehgEYJCbNr/s1600/pre-historic-park.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVUdzCbtPrvrbWWJYLZXe2DpbTu49-0Fq47e-IypwHiZcEmcccrB7zWevfgj5Gp3ZlUFlJW_XpnEXUwanrAHOqroTpUNkxWO04qG-2vmiDCesK2LTvju8RkAGi8nehgEYJCbNr/s200/pre-historic-park.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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The surroundings also include a children's park, a
pre-historic park (displaying a life-size dinosaur, which I doubt is a T-Rex),
a pond (you won't feel like touching the water though), lots of sculptures, and
(I think) more than 40 buildings of traditional architecture.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP-rf2SezXJHH3lzRTY9LPUrdHkKS4OQjWmduhAIg29hcqjJgc8OG8Jw-TmiyzJv3q1cxisQTbq93OwwNghvlE2rh7nWZffwneKjOP6N65YCRK3FXfpAxsPStSq56i21iZy6gt/s1600/DSC00334.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP-rf2SezXJHH3lzRTY9LPUrdHkKS4OQjWmduhAIg29hcqjJgc8OG8Jw-TmiyzJv3q1cxisQTbq93OwwNghvlE2rh7nWZffwneKjOP6N65YCRK3FXfpAxsPStSq56i21iZy6gt/s200/DSC00334.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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The roofs of the buildings are all tiled. Only skilled
carpenters can set the frames for laying the tiles. The roofed walk from the
palace to the pond is a nice sight and offers a cool seclude under the scathing
sun. It is a wonder the insides of the buildings are always cool - without any
AC or fans.</div>
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By 2pm, we have finished checking the gardens and got into
the museum. It was a palace built by the Maharaja of Cochin in 1865, which was
handed over to the Department of Archaeology by the Royal Family in 1980. They
converted the palace into a museum and opened it to the public in 1986.</div>
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Inside the palace, the floors are tiled. The smooth,
colourful tiles feel cold while stepping on. No two rooms appear to have the
same design of tiles.</div>
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The displays include mural paintings, sculptures, chariots,
swords, guns, and several hundreds of equipments that have been in use a long
time ago. It also displays kitchen equipments (like wooden chopping board),
household items, etc that regular people used at their homes.</div>
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The part I liked the most is a vault, guarded by policemen.
Inside it, you could see centuries old gold ornaments. There is also a golden
crown that weighs more than 1.5kg, decorated with more than hundred precious
stones of all kinds. The same vault (or is it a locker) has an Odyanam (an
ornament for the waist), which appears to weigh more than 2kg. I wonder how any
woman had worn it.</div>
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The displays also include depictions of scenes from day to
day life, from epics (like Ramayana), and from history.<br />
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<a title="tripunithura hill palace photos" href="http://kerala-traveller.blogspot.com/2011/09/tripunithura-hill-palace-photos.html">click here for more photos</a>.</div>
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For those who like to visit the place:</div>
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Entry fee: Rs.20</div>
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Working hours: 9.30am to 12.30pm, 2.00pm to 4.30pm</div>
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Closed on: Monday</div>
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Location (how to reach): Tripunithura is 12km south of
Ernakulam (Kochi), approachable by road.</div>
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There is a railway station at Tripunithura (passenger trains
and some express trains do stop there).</div>
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I am not sure about spelling the place and I am confused
with variations like Thrippunithura, Tripunitura, Trippunithura, etc.</div>
Prince Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10920362374578614296noreply@blogger.com2Hill palace, Ernakulam, Kerala, India9.9527359 76.36190329.9507809 76.3594357 9.954690900000001 76.3643707tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20993569.post-24143656307770084852011-09-08T23:30:00.000-07:002011-09-10T01:35:22.847-07:00Onam Illumination Works TVM 2011 PhotosThe illumination work is a regular feature of Onam festivities in the city. I have been seeing the illumination works since I was a child. I still find it amusing.<br />
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I have taken a few photos of the illumination works, which I post below. (click on the images to view the pictures in larger size).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaPhzcH6YzPSrZOgAS_Xm4BYEoNB6gPH1fwquEGV6yo1mKMH-PvQ1phTgib2FcG1sqA8HUOLCjY07d8GeQyCwHNA_OD2WBp8fEL5lF9PXTfUHOdEdxkbTcdLD9Bp7w0G5FkQsf/s1600/tvm-road-onam-lighting-4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaPhzcH6YzPSrZOgAS_Xm4BYEoNB6gPH1fwquEGV6yo1mKMH-PvQ1phTgib2FcG1sqA8HUOLCjY07d8GeQyCwHNA_OD2WBp8fEL5lF9PXTfUHOdEdxkbTcdLD9Bp7w0G5FkQsf/s320/tvm-road-onam-lighting-4.JPG" width="320" /></a>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH6u6X3HxHR408017a4wdRziuCagPeEbDefcI6YYsRG-SHX4jlbKQuwIetQK9dOLS_zyNqm7PAHOR1ruw_Y4tFCqHxq1DJ-iBdxXk5HbQKqw42ym3IHz7awZ7QoCkhyphenhyphenEyIltu8/s1600/tvm-onam-lightings.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH6u6X3HxHR408017a4wdRziuCagPeEbDefcI6YYsRG-SHX4jlbKQuwIetQK9dOLS_zyNqm7PAHOR1ruw_Y4tFCqHxq1DJ-iBdxXk5HbQKqw42ym3IHz7awZ7QoCkhyphenhyphenEyIltu8/s320/tvm-onam-lightings.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH6u6X3HxHR408017a4wdRziuCagPeEbDefcI6YYsRG-SHX4jlbKQuwIetQK9dOLS_zyNqm7PAHOR1ruw_Y4tFCqHxq1DJ-iBdxXk5HbQKqw42ym3IHz7awZ7QoCkhyphenhyphenEyIltu8/s1600/tvm-onam-lightings.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH6u6X3HxHR408017a4wdRziuCagPeEbDefcI6YYsRG-SHX4jlbKQuwIetQK9dOLS_zyNqm7PAHOR1ruw_Y4tFCqHxq1DJ-iBdxXk5HbQKqw42ym3IHz7awZ7QoCkhyphenhyphenEyIltu8/s1600/tvm-onam-lightings.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH6u6X3HxHR408017a4wdRziuCagPeEbDefcI6YYsRG-SHX4jlbKQuwIetQK9dOLS_zyNqm7PAHOR1ruw_Y4tFCqHxq1DJ-iBdxXk5HbQKqw42ym3IHz7awZ7QoCkhyphenhyphenEyIltu8/s1600/tvm-onam-lightings.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH6u6X3HxHR408017a4wdRziuCagPeEbDefcI6YYsRG-SHX4jlbKQuwIetQK9dOLS_zyNqm7PAHOR1ruw_Y4tFCqHxq1DJ-iBdxXk5HbQKqw42ym3IHz7awZ7QoCkhyphenhyphenEyIltu8/s1600/tvm-onam-lightings.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH6u6X3HxHR408017a4wdRziuCagPeEbDefcI6YYsRG-SHX4jlbKQuwIetQK9dOLS_zyNqm7PAHOR1ruw_Y4tFCqHxq1DJ-iBdxXk5HbQKqw42ym3IHz7awZ7QoCkhyphenhyphenEyIltu8/s1600/tvm-onam-lightings.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a>
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<a href="http://kerala-traveller.blogspot.com/2008/09/onam-illumination-works-in.html">Onam Illumination in 2008</a>Prince Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10920362374578614296noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20993569.post-77173757404166954332011-09-03T23:31:00.001-07:002011-09-03T23:31:46.020-07:00Onam Festival 2011 Trivandrum<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
The capital city is all set for an extravaganza of Onam
festivities. The seven-day celebrations begin on September 7, with Chief
Minister Sri Oommen Chandy opening the fiesta at the Chandrashekhran Nair
stadium.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The programmes include several traditional and modern
performing arts. The music shows include a conglomerate of traditional artistes
from different states, along with playback singers on 7<sup>th</sup> evening at
Chandrasekharan Nair Stadium. The same venue will witness Ganamela (music
performance) by M.G.Srikumar,Anwar Sadath, and comedy show by Babu Jose and
Biju Jose.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Programmes and venues</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ganamela (M.G.Sreekumar & Anwar Sadath) - 8 Sep
Chandrasekharan Nair Stadium</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Comedy Show (Babu Jose& Biju Jose)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
'Manpazham' (poems recital by various poets)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
'Tharolsavam' (dance and singing programme by serial
artists) 9 sep<span> </span>Chandrasekharan Nair
Stadium</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
'Indradanuss', a programme to honour cine artist Jagathy
Sreekumar</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ganamela by Sujatha Mohan, Swetha Mohan, sreenivas, Lakhmi
priya</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Comedy show by Kottayam Nazeer team - 10Ssep
Chandrashekharan Nair Stadium</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Down to earth (Music Band by Biji
bal and Team), dance (thandra), Comedy Challenge ( Live Comedy reality Show) 11
sep<span> </span>Chandrasekharan Nair Stadium.</div>
<div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 376.5pt; text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Metro Nilav ganamela ( Mano, Anwar,
Akhila, Nishanth), 'Mimicri' (cinimala team), dance ( Shano cazim and team) -
12 Sep Chandrasekharan Nair Stadium</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Onam extreme ganamela ( Rimi tommy,
Afsal and Vidhu Pradhap) 13 sep Chandrashekharan Nair Stadium. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Classical dance forms (various) -
Nishagandhi auditorium</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Classical dance solo - Vylopilli
sansikriti bhavan</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ganamela (madhu balakrishanan,
Gayanthri, Jassi Gift, Najeem arshad, Raja Lekhmi, Ravi Shankhar, Jose Sagar,
etc) - Poojappura Ground</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Nadan kalakal (folk-art) -
kanakakunnu mini stage</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Painting exhibition - Kanakakunnu
Palace</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Karnatic music - Kanakakunnu
Palace</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Drama VGT hall</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Drama N.Krishan Pillai Foundation
auditorium</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Panchavadyam - Kanakakkunnu gate</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Magic & comedy show - Museum
auditorium</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Women and children programme - Institute
of Engineers Hall</div>
Prince Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10920362374578614296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20993569.post-15597429696278152132011-08-30T20:11:00.000-07:002011-08-30T20:11:18.841-07:00Athapoo 2011 Welcome to OnamToday is Atham (a day in Malayalam calender) and on the tenth day of today is Thiruvonam (Onam).<br />
<br />
Athappoo (also called athapoo, athappookkalam, onapookkalam, etc), is certain floral arrangement that people create based on certain athapoo designs. Pookalam designs remained a simple affair for several decades.<br />
<br />
Then came athappoo competitions and we started seeing complex athappoo designs.<br />
<br />
Children make this athapoo in front of their homes or on the roadsides to welcome Onam. When you see flowers everywhere, you know Onam is at the door.<br />
<br />
Dear friends, I wish you smashing Onam celebrations :)<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG6t_xohkSwq7V2v3P9Xjlo7Dd5LsdgNtBAgx4_-gjO9zNHp8xX6rFh3ISCWDRU_nPBcX9bCjgiObNIjw67PtvGoerid8NVTeAi91_XYn4mZBgx2Sym_XjEytR3vTFakkt7izj/s1600/onappookkalam-design.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="139" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG6t_xohkSwq7V2v3P9Xjlo7Dd5LsdgNtBAgx4_-gjO9zNHp8xX6rFh3ISCWDRU_nPBcX9bCjgiObNIjw67PtvGoerid8NVTeAi91_XYn4mZBgx2Sym_XjEytR3vTFakkt7izj/s320/onappookkalam-design.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Athapoo -(click on image for larger size)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiafswF6iDmE67KZMVj7FCfMtRA1bVMIcfSc5KwcLysUv-CENPQtrrCqo6ueo98mpHzVuZpUvfdqhDHXOIuCpdCwBrZ6eO0jfD1OmsXiot_iHO352U98HOWD_oz14-ITuh9uY5O/s1600/athapoo-design-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiafswF6iDmE67KZMVj7FCfMtRA1bVMIcfSc5KwcLysUv-CENPQtrrCqo6ueo98mpHzVuZpUvfdqhDHXOIuCpdCwBrZ6eO0jfD1OmsXiot_iHO352U98HOWD_oz14-ITuh9uY5O/s320/athapoo-design-1.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNQOxlGBlrejnxSet0J-qrP9WV0KfarWYnQPdevGTT9KpE_UBQeXghnIOO_Crxwk9t7VV8ODs9L-JJ8OeDzOPuuC356ZL5SSksv9TRwM1vCpVeO9-JOEh5nDV4dpWC4OvcI6HF/s1600/athappookalam-design-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="177" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNQOxlGBlrejnxSet0J-qrP9WV0KfarWYnQPdevGTT9KpE_UBQeXghnIOO_Crxwk9t7VV8ODs9L-JJ8OeDzOPuuC356ZL5SSksv9TRwM1vCpVeO9-JOEh5nDV4dpWC4OvcI6HF/s320/athappookalam-design-1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Prince Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10920362374578614296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20993569.post-40701118739450262992011-08-29T22:48:00.000-07:002011-08-29T22:48:13.121-07:00Tamarind Hotel, Restaurant at Neyyar Dam<br />
After several hours of boredom at home, my wife and I set out and reached <a href="http://kerala-traveller.blogspot.com/2007/11/neyyar-dam-trivandrum-kerala.html">Neyyar Dam</a> for a relaxing afternoon.<br />
<br />
The crocodile breeding center had an off day, but we could see a small herd of spotted deer at the Deer Rehabilitation center. We also spent some hours walking over the dam, spending some time at the park, and climbing the observation tower.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDv2i4Dfz_o2Vxb6LWS5TGyd9oNa0cdm6Gg9kDRd_JmIFc6dMYL8o8ulhuWUVigKO8qD9xxnslYS2suF7qfcZnvJO6lUOz5mSTx9e6pmRmeg5SBjUB-UyryoL0ee9vgET4n3wS/s1600/tamarind-hotel-neyyar-dam.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="tamarind ktdc hotel neyyar dam" border="0" id=":current_picnik_image" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDv2i4Dfz_o2Vxb6LWS5TGyd9oNa0cdm6Gg9kDRd_JmIFc6dMYL8o8ulhuWUVigKO8qD9xxnslYS2suF7qfcZnvJO6lUOz5mSTx9e6pmRmeg5SBjUB-UyryoL0ee9vgET4n3wS/s320/tamarind-hotel-neyyar-dam.jpg" width="185" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">KTDC Hotel Neyyar Dam</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
When we thought about tea and some refreshments, I felt like there isn't any decent hotel at all. I have seen the Tamarind Restaurant run by KTDC (Kerala Tourism Development Corporation), but haven't tried it till now. It is a budget hotel and with a decent restaurant.<br />
<br />
While waiting for our food to arrive, we could watch motor boats taking off in different directions in the reservoir, while a cool breeze from the lake caressed our faces.<br />
<br />
And, the food is nice and not very costly, we enjoyed a nice eating experience after quite some time.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Q1eGpFaoQgYrH75QVFJ2ZZUB91cL3v5sULUg-lAvoehRQMCQNPIKz7512EtXnmm-nxzyjvCV48GdUkea-csrYjkNU1Lpl1n-bv0GW-ieW_be43TMc_TtOl7uiSN9mi3G5IJG/s1600/tamarind-ktdc-restaurant-neyyar-dam.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Q1eGpFaoQgYrH75QVFJ2ZZUB91cL3v5sULUg-lAvoehRQMCQNPIKz7512EtXnmm-nxzyjvCV48GdUkea-csrYjkNU1Lpl1n-bv0GW-ieW_be43TMc_TtOl7uiSN9mi3G5IJG/s320/tamarind-ktdc-restaurant-neyyar-dam.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Food is Nice</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Prince Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10920362374578614296noreply@blogger.com2Neyyar Dam, Kerala8.5344026 77.17296058.5029971 77.1334785 8.5658081 77.212442500000009tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20993569.post-22219077336573128262011-07-04T07:09:00.000-07:002011-07-04T07:09:30.358-07:00National Treasure Now in Kerala CapitalReading reports of treasure trove at Padmanabhaswami Temple in Thiruvananthapuram is as incredible as watching the film National Treasure, starred by Nicholas Cage. Oh, WSJ calls it: <a href="http://blogs.wsj.com/indiarealtime/2011/07/04/a-kerala-temples-indiana-jones-moment/">A Kerala Temple’s ‘Indiana Jones’ Moment</a>.<br />
<br />
Go through a few news reports from around the world. I can't tell anything about the discovering without sounding exaggerated.<br />
<br />
Daily Mail UK: <a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2011015/Treasure-trove-jewels-coins-valuables-worth-billions-unearthed-Indian-temple.html?ITO=1490">Treasure trove of jewels, coins and other valuables 'worth billions' is unearthed in Indian temple</a><br />
<br />
Reuters: <a href="http://blogs.reuters.com/faithworld/2011/07/04/huge-treasure-trove-discovered-under-southern-indian-hindu-temple/">Huge treasure trove discovered under southern Indian Hindu temple</a><br />
<br />
Mirror UK: <a href="http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/top-stories/2011/07/04/treasure-found-hidden-beneath-indian-temple-115875-23245363/">Treasure found beneath Indian temple</a><br />
<br />
Irish Times: <a href="http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/world/2011/0704/1224300032237.html">Indian treasure worth €1bn recovered from vault unopened for 140 years</a><br />
<br />
The Australian: <a href="http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/world/indian-temple-yields-treasure/story-e6frg6so-1226086710732">Indian temple yields treasure</a><br />
<br />
Voice of America: <a href="http://www.voanews.com/english/news/Treasure-Worth-Billions-Found-in-Indian-Temple-124937579.html">Treasure Worth Billions Found in Indian Temple</a><br />
<br />
China.org.cn: <a href="http://www.china.org.cn/business/2011-07/04/content_22916282.htm">Treasure trove discovered in Indian temple</a><br />
<br />
The Voice of Russia: <a href="http://english.ruvr.ru/2011/07/04/52731991.html">Multibillion-dollar treasure found in Indian temple</a><br />
<br />
It appears press around the world is celebrating the National Treasure. Treasures in Pyramids of Egypt may be bigger. Haven't heard anything comparable in recent times.<br />
<br />
Will they display all the finds in a museum so that tourists from around the world can be mesmerized? I wish so. We may not be like Indiana Jones. But, we surely like to see a treasure.Prince Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10920362374578614296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20993569.post-28568510181816452892011-05-23T18:22:00.000-07:002011-05-24T07:30:38.757-07:00Somatheeram Beach PhotosSomatheeram is a beautiful beach near Kovalam in Kerala. It is a secluded and laid back beach, known for the famous <a href="http://somatheeram.in/">Somatheeram Ayurvedic Beach Resort</a>.<br />
<br />
The rocks, the sands, and the sunlight are beautiful. Relax on the sand or climb the rocks. Watch the beautiful sunset from atop the rocky terrains. This beach retains its pristine beauty.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiquTX3ucddfei2BiSFvM6_vkd1_Et8VBuo5tqpdpGdCAdsJrZpsH9c8QVXdpTp3ZeTmgOUH9_vUpS8xUoWEIjmahwjdYH7FG9VerI0O1Gh3TBjyMvmaa7i6zuVdqVeqnTP6LqV/s1600/somatheeram-7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="207" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiquTX3ucddfei2BiSFvM6_vkd1_Et8VBuo5tqpdpGdCAdsJrZpsH9c8QVXdpTp3ZeTmgOUH9_vUpS8xUoWEIjmahwjdYH7FG9VerI0O1Gh3TBjyMvmaa7i6zuVdqVeqnTP6LqV/s320/somatheeram-7.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
The Ayurvedic beach resort is one of the oldest in India. You can get authentic Ayurvedic treatments at the resort, which the beach is known for. I saw a few foreigners at the beach, who were all there for the treatment.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPD4FN95hfVAou2GXVYdOhsVNWKMTVl8u2jtuGWs9S2PCgJOJIyJe6DWsfDQiwMPCqf_11RrsSWEJueMHg2TqwOMCO_oOCyHMuPr0ESS6rLcfckHQaveAy5VHTgU3sCmd-yFj3/s1600/somatheeram-3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPD4FN95hfVAou2GXVYdOhsVNWKMTVl8u2jtuGWs9S2PCgJOJIyJe6DWsfDQiwMPCqf_11RrsSWEJueMHg2TqwOMCO_oOCyHMuPr0ESS6rLcfckHQaveAy5VHTgU3sCmd-yFj3/s200/somatheeram-3.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>The rocky beach also is filled with coconut palms. They shade the beach from the hot sun.<br />
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There were only a few visitors to the beach, offering it an almost deserted look.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCPOf-ConLQhxUw-g9ggP0cfB3Fm3TnLwnXWiKKgZPxwKoy0VH9OM_3ruQMg6RLDhJHX3-CkR3fkGDQ-6K-Xs3i80Ovoh0ztLiU-Fq3BpS7UoDkwHQMVmS5IWrqGp5jIi-pWY5/s1600/somatheeram-10.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCPOf-ConLQhxUw-g9ggP0cfB3Fm3TnLwnXWiKKgZPxwKoy0VH9OM_3ruQMg6RLDhJHX3-CkR3fkGDQ-6K-Xs3i80Ovoh0ztLiU-Fq3BpS7UoDkwHQMVmS5IWrqGp5jIi-pWY5/s200/somatheeram-10.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8SljDoUQFmWwLzWRm_n5OHXAiLGjQ_9iJfLhOLYio3KIuDuQDVJMWUCF4mTymGlbZKA2JanFess7WBI_afZIkNS8K7GIMX1e-dA1W4x4kYohpTAGExMVixCn5rU9Fuwk_1kmu/s1600/somatheeram-11.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8SljDoUQFmWwLzWRm_n5OHXAiLGjQ_9iJfLhOLYio3KIuDuQDVJMWUCF4mTymGlbZKA2JanFess7WBI_afZIkNS8K7GIMX1e-dA1W4x4kYohpTAGExMVixCn5rU9Fuwk_1kmu/s320/somatheeram-11.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
How to Reach:<br />
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Somatheeram Beach is just 21 KM from Trivandrum City. It is very near to the hallmark of Kerala Tourism, Kovalam. The place is Chovvara.Prince Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10920362374578614296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20993569.post-75527237921706088912011-04-21T05:56:00.000-07:002011-04-21T05:56:15.757-07:00Thommankuthu Waterfalls and Eco-TourismThommankuthu in Idukki district of Kerala welcomes visitors with its wild beauty. Located 17 km from Thodupuzha, Thommankuthu offers a great opportunity for jungle trekking.<br />
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You can trek up hill, up till you reach the source of the river. There are also some tribal settlements, which you can reach via Thommankuthu.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a alt="thommankuthu waterfalls and eco tourism kerala" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPUU0z3tSdniLiOq18E8HL4IReBFHe8Jm-uGNYLlzVBNsk8gXWZ1UaUEtYJE06FBw-YgzLxzZX0_ntkJhZBRXrj2LkUpvxgL1Pa1-_8AbFxreOqXKMXyLP0-Y5wrSaVTkrdeRr/s1600/IMG0128A.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPUU0z3tSdniLiOq18E8HL4IReBFHe8Jm-uGNYLlzVBNsk8gXWZ1UaUEtYJE06FBw-YgzLxzZX0_ntkJhZBRXrj2LkUpvxgL1Pa1-_8AbFxreOqXKMXyLP0-Y5wrSaVTkrdeRr/s320/IMG0128A.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Scene from Thommankuthu</td></tr>
</tbody></table>The rock-filled river offers a mesmerising experience. On our way up, we saw a steep, well-shaped rock. My friends challenged me to climb the rock. I said climbing the rock is no problem, but climbing down will certainly be a big problem. Such is the shape of the rock. If you run from top of the rock, you will lose control, unless someone else can catch and stop you. Then again, I challenged myself to climb the rock. You feel like running down, but the slope is steep and you cannot stop running until you fall into the river in front. I came down slowly, as if crawling down.<br />
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The enormous rocks challenge you and intimidate you. You feel like climbing every rock. Behind the rocks are some caves, some of them accessible only through the river.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6zl0BFLW-bFM3L10Lsk-qiS5w_XfeH-ef0BhTQye1DQvKCUUxUU5koEIUyuiqlZ8izhJcwUkbY1PRoQfm5nm9hqEnpcWD66WXKcn4SqiWSVywf1UVOmTAZLfiYbwpeNcWRjKy/s1600/IMG0133A.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="thommankuthu waterfalls, kerala eco tourism" border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6zl0BFLW-bFM3L10Lsk-qiS5w_XfeH-ef0BhTQye1DQvKCUUxUU5koEIUyuiqlZ8izhJcwUkbY1PRoQfm5nm9hqEnpcWD66WXKcn4SqiWSVywf1UVOmTAZLfiYbwpeNcWRjKy/s1600/IMG0133A.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From atop a waterfall in Thommankuthu, Kerala</td></tr>
</tbody></table>There are 10 or 12 waterfalls in the river. With proper precautions, you can take a bath above or below the waterfalls. The water is fresh, cold and inviting.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisAgxVjA1edC9TX-wQiudkZYxpngfAb0ePTZKCCsYv7pO7PPDPVejOrgPcXi5cbLCQ4W_8_OkrdWA2rxr2gD8jelnSCK0n7FKxYPZRmKo8-KVA08OVMzvke30qOcO01Te2nR5D/s1600/IMG0134A.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisAgxVjA1edC9TX-wQiudkZYxpngfAb0ePTZKCCsYv7pO7PPDPVejOrgPcXi5cbLCQ4W_8_OkrdWA2rxr2gD8jelnSCK0n7FKxYPZRmKo8-KVA08OVMzvke30qOcO01Te2nR5D/s320/IMG0134A.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Big rocks - an attractive feature of Thommankuthu falls</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Prince Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10920362374578614296noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20993569.post-22485227383651514702009-07-24T18:07:00.000-07:002009-07-24T18:20:15.665-07:00Kovalam Beach PhotosKovalam, the beautiful beach of Kerala attracts tourists from all parts of the world.<br />
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It used to be dominated by foreign tourists. It still does in the months October to February. Now it is time for the local tourists to enjoy the beauty of <a href="http://kerala-traveller.blogspot.com/2006/03/silver-sand-beach-among-palm-groves.html">Kovalam</a> beach, which attracts people from far away.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiynQs8Gpr7wiv0WyzzuBAAJd96zzuwHbr9NmRWeo-NJ7q8VPgmyqUxhTmOVA5AjcAZZeNugZmy-hooachjgfYGjEm4waWaO-qo2o3k3hnPuXVI_MX1axV9hZ4Ry_17WC2IUh1F/s1600-h/Kovalam.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiynQs8Gpr7wiv0WyzzuBAAJd96zzuwHbr9NmRWeo-NJ7q8VPgmyqUxhTmOVA5AjcAZZeNugZmy-hooachjgfYGjEm4waWaO-qo2o3k3hnPuXVI_MX1axV9hZ4Ry_17WC2IUh1F/s320/Kovalam.JPG" style="cursor: move;" /></a></div>Here are a few pictures from Kovalam beaches - Eve's Beach and Adam's Beach, which is also known as Light House Beach. The Light House beach is a changed lot. The beach used to be the venue for several hundreds of white-skinned people to take a sunbath and to tan their skins. Now, the sea (Arabian Ocean) has eaten most of the beach.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggpkdxOy8AzQ-u1YZpUwQwY7_5y5sFryrRgcjz9d4v1bRItfuuLZuGJEhuHpBtV2S-LwThwCt2gqJe2wbZHx4jDOiKDfCI4MQAh2SZdsnFdfaCBMTCGhHef3n8lHOvQ0u8uXPh/s1600-h/Kovalam+%281%29.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggpkdxOy8AzQ-u1YZpUwQwY7_5y5sFryrRgcjz9d4v1bRItfuuLZuGJEhuHpBtV2S-LwThwCt2gqJe2wbZHx4jDOiKDfCI4MQAh2SZdsnFdfaCBMTCGhHef3n8lHOvQ0u8uXPh/s320/Kovalam+%281%29.JPG" /></a><br />
A group of youngsters from Thirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, enjoying the evening at Eve's Beach Kovalam.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhThdT7XKlTcb3wpYV8HxXO3izEBY66FQGo8rLhbkYQOORR1R0hS-dFICcLjKa-cfmc1e55uaye_bAWrBsjoZKKFUp9r_TWuv2gi8R3-vzHLRivw-rgYwrPwaIiknoEU1l5jkgA/s1600-h/Kovalam+%282%29.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhThdT7XKlTcb3wpYV8HxXO3izEBY66FQGo8rLhbkYQOORR1R0hS-dFICcLjKa-cfmc1e55uaye_bAWrBsjoZKKFUp9r_TWuv2gi8R3-vzHLRivw-rgYwrPwaIiknoEU1l5jkgA/s320/Kovalam+%282%29.JPG" /></a> Young men enjoying the sun and the waters.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM2zpchByojQohru6VWT7rp9woMI9BFvgXPxlWCfr6aKSvL2b5aUwXkDCMBC0bNlCXJIV6qcnXh_qgjW0rWUUn2IdIqabxn_1utLjBQ2e9iZWqoWbn65TC7h2_lMChWn2GOrtQ/s1600-h/Kovalam+%283%29.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM2zpchByojQohru6VWT7rp9woMI9BFvgXPxlWCfr6aKSvL2b5aUwXkDCMBC0bNlCXJIV6qcnXh_qgjW0rWUUn2IdIqabxn_1utLjBQ2e9iZWqoWbn65TC7h2_lMChWn2GOrtQ/s320/Kovalam+%283%29.JPG" /></a> Majority of local visitors prefer staying back at the shore and enjoy the sporting activities of people who don't mind some salt water in their mouths.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfOG5Auo_2Hj1R9aRbWTpO2IVydaS-D8QYIw8GeCblTZ7tUxnHWhF27XaXLowMWNKAhgTO4ptIPSLvcK-Wobkk4v9zYYDnDCeFsvS6UGiP5KBEicJsRUEgQ2KqQRw6Gw3OtYTK/s1600-h/Kovalam+%284%29.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfOG5Auo_2Hj1R9aRbWTpO2IVydaS-D8QYIw8GeCblTZ7tUxnHWhF27XaXLowMWNKAhgTO4ptIPSLvcK-Wobkk4v9zYYDnDCeFsvS6UGiP5KBEicJsRUEgQ2KqQRw6Gw3OtYTK/s320/Kovalam+%284%29.JPG" /></a> A little sporty of act, without which, life can get boring.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1v5g-fXZ7kyi4m0xnes-Gi3H7nAvoWjmwPQKCSNLZjZqgHpxnAc3t_okq5Bfw8BlQJ5fhxoFA7Xz7h59NJgDCk2P4sWxACN2CJ1Czgut6GQqNhn7oT9wYxocbtuFfiIdl3jAG/s1600-h/Kovalam+%285%29.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1v5g-fXZ7kyi4m0xnes-Gi3H7nAvoWjmwPQKCSNLZjZqgHpxnAc3t_okq5Bfw8BlQJ5fhxoFA7Xz7h59NJgDCk2P4sWxACN2CJ1Czgut6GQqNhn7oT9wYxocbtuFfiIdl3jAG/s320/Kovalam+%285%29.JPG" /></a> Every sunset is different. Here, I enjoyed the silhouette.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ71nHfnnJcqdan8owf4U4QjWQNbHD7qxKFXHRguQD52ZR8oeF0VFZHwBabDdUajm7D_YjIegcrMtEF7-2oxn8RzFnlS7TeYSxdFxkgIQyv_6eF1S-bH46wImZ8ZPFYq7KuW47/s1600-h/Kovalam+%286%29.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ71nHfnnJcqdan8owf4U4QjWQNbHD7qxKFXHRguQD52ZR8oeF0VFZHwBabDdUajm7D_YjIegcrMtEF7-2oxn8RzFnlS7TeYSxdFxkgIQyv_6eF1S-bH46wImZ8ZPFYq7KuW47/s320/Kovalam+%286%29.JPG" /></a> Sun saying goodbye to another day. Maybe, just going to lighten up other parts of the earth. My camera got this sunset at Kovalam beach on Friday.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilqkPpyQA2XP8bpbjgVmz8PgJTeFq5Uz5fqT4ZiCVWQCoYTghVz8oBK-l-NrECN5tSb2ZQzrpttdbVFbpGUGlQ04sVq8P6GUcGBcyAe4rPoBHSYh-mx9fDSFK74cm_XM0d-Dqp/s1600-h/Kovalam+%287%29.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilqkPpyQA2XP8bpbjgVmz8PgJTeFq5Uz5fqT4ZiCVWQCoYTghVz8oBK-l-NrECN5tSb2ZQzrpttdbVFbpGUGlQ04sVq8P6GUcGBcyAe4rPoBHSYh-mx9fDSFK74cm_XM0d-Dqp/s320/Kovalam+%287%29.JPG" /></a>The lighthouse beach, Kovalam. Mostly deserted. </div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg8f2Yg3M3T8YhhzEmRV2AYmo0G3KZT1xXz_zrRjWVk7GmQznAoYYKfQ8nF6dshAyyI7h0MIqYxB95cNKrK8O5QzqoS34dFYk5LkQnfGm46D9q7R_NrMcQcSyjaFklen34GdVg/s1600-h/Kovalam+%288%29.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg8f2Yg3M3T8YhhzEmRV2AYmo0G3KZT1xXz_zrRjWVk7GmQznAoYYKfQ8nF6dshAyyI7h0MIqYxB95cNKrK8O5QzqoS34dFYk5LkQnfGm46D9q7R_NrMcQcSyjaFklen34GdVg/s320/Kovalam+%288%29.JPG" /></a>Another silhouette, but the sun has already left. </div><div style="text-align: left;"></div>Prince Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10920362374578614296noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20993569.post-77325480505267591052009-07-20T19:58:00.000-07:002009-07-20T20:01:44.212-07:00Thenmala Tour PicturesA few pictures from <a href="http://kerala-traveller.blogspot.com/2008/04/thenmala-place-for-freshness-serenity.html">Thenmala </a>and from the road to the destination. Thenmala Ecotourism Project built around Thenmala Dam is an experience for the nature lovers.<br />
<div style="clear: both;"></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX-Q7ihnIETPK5B5RfcdDdZDzamHHWIVZkmyGabg6wS3k9WlI3KU783ZdZz69RMkNstPSNaU-04pI9WTOZ4Gm_iGQHuBIe2BQTNsK65F_AW1Hnvv4pAZ1m-mfn3EWuXUVLmh4p/s1600-h/DSC03827.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="butterfly safari at Thenmala, Kerala" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX-Q7ihnIETPK5B5RfcdDdZDzamHHWIVZkmyGabg6wS3k9WlI3KU783ZdZz69RMkNstPSNaU-04pI9WTOZ4Gm_iGQHuBIe2BQTNsK65F_AW1Hnvv4pAZ1m-mfn3EWuXUVLmh4p/s200/DSC03827.JPG" /></a><br />
Travel Tips:<br />
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The road is lonely. You will not find many shops on the route. At the destination too, there are few shops that accept credit/debit cards. There aren't any ATMs either.So take enough cash with you.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4aG75Ffy1wRpDYBWpBgMHUW-VH7zHGntAqA9eXifMMD2f_g9vtnOMucKvtalliXnkjG2YuDuuPT3Qh7VD36IAFOfkPQFiiT-u2HKiPmXj5Njl1jmuH2lwN4kZqL2_1WAj_ZDf/s1600-h/DSC03845.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4aG75Ffy1wRpDYBWpBgMHUW-VH7zHGntAqA9eXifMMD2f_g9vtnOMucKvtalliXnkjG2YuDuuPT3Qh7VD36IAFOfkPQFiiT-u2HKiPmXj5Njl1jmuH2lwN4kZqL2_1WAj_ZDf/s320/DSC03845.JPG" /></a></div>Butterfly Watching: The <a href="http://kerala-traveller.blogspot.com/2008/02/kerala-butterfly-safari-park-thenmala.html">butterfly safari park</a> is a great location to watch rare butterflies. The best time to watch variety of butterflies is pre-monsoon - before the monsoon lashes Kerala.<br />
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The best time to watch abundance of butterflies is September-October. Only two or three dozen variety, but an abundance of them waits for you. I prefer abundance to rarity and variety - at least in butterflies' case.<br />
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The road is long and lonely. It may be better to take your own vehicle - preferably an SUV. Stock enough snacks and drinks, as it will come handy.<br />
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It is a plastic-free zone. So don't take plastic to this place. Paper carrier bags preferred.<br />
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<div style="clear: both;"></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhajjSzD9M_RHlyT3wY5tBsvbX9Rh1Gzep5DdzQBbhNw7UJ8GeBKMOWubW_A1o0JB-bhl8GmsYHoWixHXmw00VodKwt1jYXACrPlqW3LpSCfsjjWH4EQmnkj6iTxtAWJgMcDnXA/s1600-h/DSC05829.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhajjSzD9M_RHlyT3wY5tBsvbX9Rh1Gzep5DdzQBbhNw7UJ8GeBKMOWubW_A1o0JB-bhl8GmsYHoWixHXmw00VodKwt1jYXACrPlqW3LpSCfsjjWH4EQmnkj6iTxtAWJgMcDnXA/s320/DSC05829.JPG" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZKIEwFUbFLVxj0bdIsc7n1Re5WKDaPfg-KIpID_rmVGvd8QuAui09V5tKFV1bTVnjJtoVqTCQa0GQWOdh7zQsiKuHWcVqsRBEIqwFZQ1XEZKr79kIsLW-OnIi_zXoyUM2gMxd/s1600-h/DSC05813.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZKIEwFUbFLVxj0bdIsc7n1Re5WKDaPfg-KIpID_rmVGvd8QuAui09V5tKFV1bTVnjJtoVqTCQa0GQWOdh7zQsiKuHWcVqsRBEIqwFZQ1XEZKr79kIsLW-OnIi_zXoyUM2gMxd/s320/DSC05813.JPG" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCLqaKcMLMkq2i30kB3rt1e6_9MBkjVA33Y7kdhtwcB3UqO1VHLU212hT-6mHc03LC9n8kbNvrF2K_lJKrDZWQC_Nsc0GJvMpfhktRieKQZnYz3856C64bvKv2zcW5hNNx91Xe/s1600-h/DSC05868.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCLqaKcMLMkq2i30kB3rt1e6_9MBkjVA33Y7kdhtwcB3UqO1VHLU212hT-6mHc03LC9n8kbNvrF2K_lJKrDZWQC_Nsc0GJvMpfhktRieKQZnYz3856C64bvKv2zcW5hNNx91Xe/s320/DSC05868.JPG" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpTOeTInSoZcSg9XME2Y2Eq3nSXOZYf4I-Klrw3bDnWzWzh9SrVMGz_IjrAb-GAiIla68uib07mh3hrnvOIubkKEEogBSzuSrA7HQcYk98V3QpcCrHtICF2xc_CLNKsvjI-EYo/s1600-h/DSC05860.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpTOeTInSoZcSg9XME2Y2Eq3nSXOZYf4I-Klrw3bDnWzWzh9SrVMGz_IjrAb-GAiIla68uib07mh3hrnvOIubkKEEogBSzuSrA7HQcYk98V3QpcCrHtICF2xc_CLNKsvjI-EYo/s320/DSC05860.JPG" /></a><br />
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How to reach Thenmala:<br />
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Thenmala is near Punalur in Kollam dist.<br />
From Trivandrum (76km): KSRTC buses are available once every hour from Trivandrum Central bus station (buses are Thenkasi, Aryankavu and Thenmala).<br />
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Visitors from northern parts of Kerala can reach via Punalur.<br />
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Visitors from Tamil Nadu can reach via Thenkasi.Prince Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10920362374578614296noreply@blogger.com1Thenmala, Kerala, India8.9538386 77.066528.9326426 77.037337499999992 8.975034599999999 77.0957025tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20993569.post-17012707248464090202008-10-15T08:11:00.000-07:002008-10-18T18:37:15.812-07:00Kanyakumari (Cape Comerin) Tamil NaduKanyakumari (Cape Comerin) is the southern most tip of peninsular India. The location is so special in many ways. It is the meeting point of three seas – Bay of Bengal in the East, Indian Ocean in the South and Arabian Sea in the west. This place also offers you see sunrise and sunset (over the sea) at the same location.<br /><div style="clear: both;"></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja9wEYNcxX4t-r9mukroUlQJEG9w2zzavDve3iBchsmFn-rrTsYewCw5qCNdN-MXEYwZ0aZ7HSTjFerNjd-HAJK7LxBpGMkOCV53bGvcZVcfEaIY0LstoGQLuAdX6pUOhsiyGp/s1600-h/thiruvalluvar-vivekananda-rock-kanyakumari-1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja9wEYNcxX4t-r9mukroUlQJEG9w2zzavDve3iBchsmFn-rrTsYewCw5qCNdN-MXEYwZ0aZ7HSTjFerNjd-HAJK7LxBpGMkOCV53bGvcZVcfEaIY0LstoGQLuAdX6pUOhsiyGp/s320/thiruvalluvar-vivekananda-rock-kanyakumari-1.jpg" alt="Thiruvalluvar statue & Vivekananda Rock Memorial, Cape Comerin, Kanyakumari" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5258144874924099538" border="0" /></a>In addition to the sunrise and sunset, the main attractions are the Kanyakumari Temple (Devi Kanyakumari is the deity), Vivekananda Rock (where Swami Vivekananda meditated) and Gandhi Memorial (the place where Mahatma Gandhi's ashes was briefly kept before submersing in the holy spot).<br /><br />The architecture of Gandhi memorial follows Indian temple architecture style. A unique distinction of the memorial is that on October 2 (Gandhiji's birthday), the rays of sun fall on the place, where the urn with Gandhi's ashes was kept. Sun rays don't fall at the place on other days of the years.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB407TvX33EdJtXyg30k4EoycYC27cEkkhHk5Gjt0terUR_h4WvqjGaYZLEF_TtdSglj9DeHcZB4mTeHPlnJoc9emRa-zWN8Sq4wJ9FhzT5RzlqDqIgyk9ge-AQZkQ0bsQOAlL/s1600-h/kanyakumari-cape-comerin.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB407TvX33EdJtXyg30k4EoycYC27cEkkhHk5Gjt0terUR_h4WvqjGaYZLEF_TtdSglj9DeHcZB4mTeHPlnJoc9emRa-zWN8Sq4wJ9FhzT5RzlqDqIgyk9ge-AQZkQ0bsQOAlL/s320/kanyakumari-cape-comerin.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5258543521300792866" border="0" /></a>The Vivekananda Rock Temple has a dhyana mandapam (a meditation place), which offers you the most peaceful atmosphere, even as the outside is buzzing with big crowds.<br /><br />You can't miss the 133 ft tall statue of Tiruvalluvar, an epic Tamil poet and the Vivekananda Rock memorial, which are both seen just off the shore towards south east.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn6Vmn787xRzFGqUMygfjHsS4ZbuLokTAt8VxmhD4HA5LR8GYesvn1Rkx6XdQkgFcii2g7GyckyrrwgBY8wjpaiO2SUGGNpvGGZgKkuc_ytiYLwPz87rzfNMMor-sj7AJKrs0Z/s1600-h/ABCD0018.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn6Vmn787xRzFGqUMygfjHsS4ZbuLokTAt8VxmhD4HA5LR8GYesvn1Rkx6XdQkgFcii2g7GyckyrrwgBY8wjpaiO2SUGGNpvGGZgKkuc_ytiYLwPz87rzfNMMor-sj7AJKrs0Z/s320/ABCD0018.JPG" alt="the foot of 133ft tall Thiruvalluvar Statue" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5257400716463867074" border="0" /></a>You might wonder why I said about Kanyakumari in Kerala Tourist. The reason is historical and geographical. Historically, the whole of Kanyakumari district was part of today's Kerala (the then Travancore-Cochin state) until 1956, before it was amalgamated to Tamil Nadu based on the majority Tamil population here. After Nagercoil, Thiruvananthapuram is the major city nearest to Kanyakumari. Nagercoil is 30Km away, while Thiruvananthapuram is 60Km away. Thiruvananthapuram is also the connecting point, as the nearest airport is in Thiruvananthapuram, 86Km away.<br /><br />Most importantly, from the deep blue seas of Kanyakumari to the thick greenery of Kerala, it is a memorable journey. The places en route include Padmanabhapuram palace at Thakkala, Thiruvattar Aqueduct (the biggest of its kind in India), Thripparappu water falls, Udayagiri Fort, Vattakkottai, Pechippara Dam, etc. These are all places, full of greenery and capable of making you feel like you are in Kerala.<br /><br />Photographs copyright <style> <!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:Verdana; panose-1:2 11 6 4 3 5 4 4 2 4; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:swiss; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:536871559 0 0 0 415 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:Verdana; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family:Arial;} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ansi-language:#0400; mso-fareast-language:#0400; mso-bidi-language:#0400;} </style> <![endif]-->© Amal VPrince Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10920362374578614296noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20993569.post-34188703388918803382008-09-14T00:14:00.000-07:002011-09-10T01:30:47.748-07:00Onam Illumination Works in Thiruvananthapuram CityOnam festival used to decorate Thiruvananthapuram city, Kerala with the best illumination works imaginable. Now too, there are quite some nice light work to make this Onam a memorable event. Government offices, private buildings and avenue trees wear fine illumination works - a nice treat for everyone who likes to hang out in the city to celebrate Onam.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIrZBjF3fDZP9QkPANfZCHsRkM7wvY5DEjJvOXXXRmm2_1eapRYiGHx2t6257eTmYn4KFzQ02LAsFJSvAeQeb_vSh6smzHqMNkUHi2fWBcH6eOzwaIhByaZkdE63ltSmHCzaVK/s1600-h/Onam-Illumination-Works-1.JPG"><img alt="a government office illuminated with color lights for onam celebrations" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5245774661063250466" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIrZBjF3fDZP9QkPANfZCHsRkM7wvY5DEjJvOXXXRmm2_1eapRYiGHx2t6257eTmYn4KFzQ02LAsFJSvAeQeb_vSh6smzHqMNkUHi2fWBcH6eOzwaIhByaZkdE63ltSmHCzaVK/s320/Onam-Illumination-Works-1.JPG" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;" /></a>I fancied taking the photographs of the illumination works. In fact, I tried it last year and spend so much time with my camera, photographing the illumination works in the city roads. The result was a great disaster. That was last year. This year I've learnt a lesson or two – like placing the camera on some solid surface like a wall (to avoid camera shake). And, though I am not extremely happy, I am quite comfortable with the results as seen below.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1PBHTVAEk4hcErCmdj8VZZZ_mI9yFEO32Qm9C9BOSuPE0zvCMjDZmghrJvnOKJ4JsKpkz3TEim8rKlPTaV92ZUxHTjMnisg3jAMEWg_KgUhdO-z4fSHE01JE-qHzdo1mMx8VS/s1600-h/Onam-Illumination-Works.JPG"><img alt="city road illuminated" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5245773467553902002" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1PBHTVAEk4hcErCmdj8VZZZ_mI9yFEO32Qm9C9BOSuPE0zvCMjDZmghrJvnOKJ4JsKpkz3TEim8rKlPTaV92ZUxHTjMnisg3jAMEWg_KgUhdO-z4fSHE01JE-qHzdo1mMx8VS/s320/Onam-Illumination-Works.JPG" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;" /></a><br />
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The images in this post are taken from different parts of Thiruvananthapuram city on Sep 12.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBDHUX3qMjcaxJQ1uYqxUSe-Ax-lW8mIArDclPUDL4KXHMY1wK88QmCrMFxH4OPtdggUEep0dU_Hg9OsLxsFCrye3HjNKJ6b73rGHRLaagSqfeDcfeldqxQvLN-7zng7NXGZV-/s1600-h/Onam-Illumination-Works-2.JPG"><img alt="a government office illuminated with color lights for onam celebrations" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5245772594157022850" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBDHUX3qMjcaxJQ1uYqxUSe-Ax-lW8mIArDclPUDL4KXHMY1wK88QmCrMFxH4OPtdggUEep0dU_Hg9OsLxsFCrye3HjNKJ6b73rGHRLaagSqfeDcfeldqxQvLN-7zng7NXGZV-/s320/Onam-Illumination-Works-2.JPG" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center;" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://kerala-traveller.blogspot.com/2011/09/onam-illumination-works-tvm-2011-photos.html">Onam Illumination 2011 photos</a>Prince Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10920362374578614296noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20993569.post-24893107907969471142008-09-13T19:36:00.000-07:002008-09-13T22:30:52.985-07:00Athapoo Contest by The Hindu MetroPlus Thiruvananthapuram<img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuoRqzBsQrPzgVSEV-HLQCmcTTtG1k4EXC-lDi54-R87BqGi-CWXN7oGrHdUzsE_Gn4ubE8-Ot5WF9oK6FYDNcj9VowoqScFupsYpk6wJ3KuJLBl0v1oiFxYLtbfRLwbWCoHlI/s200/athapoo-9.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5245715156048237586" align="left" border="0" />On Sep 9 was a nice athapoo contest conducted by The Hindu MetroPlus at Women's College, Thiruvananthapuram. There were 51 athappoo designs created by individual groups and different organizations. It was a real visual treat to see as much onam floral decorations at one place.<br /><div style="clear: both;"></div><br /><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFlBQlf6ZZ4XTksi6rJNdMm9OcxO5yC44YP3oSK-Y8suFPpyo20st62HmT2KZhcepzlYMq7PIm41IAmquIkLkMQsngfDmNxaWGSPKomxb1dcB4-fKWPu7YEUmLRvO0-epztLkV/s200/athapoo-8.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5245713701599010098" align="left" border="0" />For those people who are unsatisfied about the little options of hangouts in Thiruvananthapuram, such occasions are fine choices. Here I post a few of the photographs I have snapped from the contest.<br /><div style="clear: both;"></div><br /><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6iNhU85xYFMTNrhDNet6R92cmjFE_oDeBdaQmcGwVzAmp5MWycUjE0RqTsBq7GQ91l4cfvP3RRNmcyKPgJv1YkW6uUK0OrZTO4nzeZFwqpkFiBGNwH2vygAwcP7G_loQp5RvT/s200/athapoo-18.JPG" alt="athapoo, onappookkalam" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5245716754234810578" align="left" border="0" />Over the years, I have seen several thousands of athapoo designs and the curious thing is that two designs are never identical. It appears, that every group (however small it is) has a fine artist, who can create floral decoration designs at will.<br /><div style="clear:both"></div><br /><br /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf90p5WboT7dN6yhfM10BPnWcV92DTzzPeufJ6FpwzogxExAYsAV25L2IoeSiUmONrpvuPEHedGBX8JQNLwoGf18AKCHWkH77ocZ7CEMLY5N2mCmP3NssZ_3sMa0gbTfDyTEmj/s200/athapoo-16.JPG" alt="athapoo designs, atham" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5245716180962742946" align="left" border="0" /><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzTtLdYd8wFdZ5xlWvtnP6YKCwPeWTNvgKWIzTNdRjuEkj5wkRPV45PlEe_bo3pPiFpbAVs29QjfXq9vsDVGr0USvgXZGvd2IWv-VjPnRIYsCOx2N6IxxS9C8CASYVkhL_KHY7/s200/athapoo-12.JPG" alt="athappoo, athapoo design" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5245715541390868562" align="right" border="0" />Needless to say, each one of the design is a wonderful floral art in its own merit. There were 51 of them.<br /><br /><div style="clear:both"></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyYpiUW3LiCh1AMPLPQcCNkCYvVKf3nRCoS47ZgR-Wx-Y69s44UO3SayLrLtpmZmaZ7JpORRdrxA9P7y5ozKQrZ6K6jHOe6Ldo_32CsJSMZagTOR6EADG9pFpvdslvYYDMeQm8/s1600-h/Vijay-Yesudas-Darsana.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyYpiUW3LiCh1AMPLPQcCNkCYvVKf3nRCoS47ZgR-Wx-Y69s44UO3SayLrLtpmZmaZ7JpORRdrxA9P7y5ozKQrZ6K6jHOe6Ldo_32CsJSMZagTOR6EADG9pFpvdslvYYDMeQm8/s320/Vijay-Yesudas-Darsana.JPG" alt="Vijay Yesudas & his wife Darsana" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5245711975216487266" border="0" /></a><br />Vijay Yesudas and his wife were the chief guests of the event.<br /><div style="clear: both;"></div><br /><br /><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfGKxc2eCBnkMBrGA32cxS32kZw-OkH4JKhifidRMGE9ttrl_R4Cb-ogOOyvDrZ7FJ3ekb3CEq4Arn5AW4YLtFg5eBJXWS-Fd7et9oUY4Ux_UnTovy8dThpvJ-WFGhU65Dj32I/s320/athapoo-venue.JPG" alt="visitors enjoying athapoo; a scene from The Hindu, MetroPlus Athapoo Contest 2008" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5245717083538774274" align="right" border="0" />The pookalam contest organized by Metro Plus (the supplement of) The Hindu attracted people from far and near.<br /><br />I was so happy I could experience the festival vibe at this venue, although most of my attention has been on photographing the details.<br /><div style="clear: both;"></div>Prince Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10920362374578614296noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20993569.post-56899213594408402522008-08-12T04:39:00.000-07:002008-09-14T06:32:54.833-07:00Police on Horse BackI can't stop fascinating at the sight of policemen on horseback at the capital city, Trivandrum. Mounted Police is rare in India, the only other unit in India is at Kolkata, West Bengal.<br /><br />I snapped the following image after a lucky encounter in one of the city roads.<br /><div style="clear:both"></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwtlUQylCYcl0sFNIe_07noj19PYkXvZfbM45YzVZC-uj3E_uV7EPGnd23lI94yJUhLOqRZL0Y4X5XqeXSR2wHS9GDmbFbeuOYVodTZzGr_MEftWqONuJoB11sjxTMUaXRPrph/s1600-h/police-horse-patrol.JPG"><img style="cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwtlUQylCYcl0sFNIe_07noj19PYkXvZfbM45YzVZC-uj3E_uV7EPGnd23lI94yJUhLOqRZL0Y4X5XqeXSR2wHS9GDmbFbeuOYVodTZzGr_MEftWqONuJoB11sjxTMUaXRPrph/s320/police-horse-patrol.JPG" border="0" alt="policemen on horses patrolling city roads in Thiruvananthapuram"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5233600446730456930" /></a>Prince Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10920362374578614296noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20993569.post-73023109296973809182008-05-28T21:56:00.000-07:002008-11-13T11:55:16.814-08:00Elephants Find Home at Kottoor<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqbwFO32XlXgoLiEFPl-xHBlO5CIQdcXsGgYavFoqGR7EI17AZJbfeoSWxq9I7jkBj-YtZMZRIfjVQb1lW4rk7QHCFcomtUfDH2ogxWLbE1LqgWJvqUXuQCHYuL0y7TAhiWo0k/s1600-h/b3.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqbwFO32XlXgoLiEFPl-xHBlO5CIQdcXsGgYavFoqGR7EI17AZJbfeoSWxq9I7jkBj-YtZMZRIfjVQb1lW4rk7QHCFcomtUfDH2ogxWLbE1LqgWJvqUXuQCHYuL0y7TAhiWo0k/s320/b3.jpg" border="0" alt="a tusker in elephant rehabilitation center"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5205659829367459218" /></a><br />Indian elephants find good home at Kottoor reserve forest in Thiruvananthapuram. Here I post two snaps from the elephant rehabilitation center Kottoor, as snapped by my friend Amal.<br /><br /><div style="clear:both"></div><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX2Z4wZBoaZvfnWm7Gc_p0CPLsj1OL41fGDUyYtdWXnu66C0hIA0eRTzbmf6GGxAwLE2ExX97SFqS5i8ko9sAj99R7s8twtqVAZ90y0ZEGR6-8eGn7S1Y4pfk9ZvNnbKR6thFT/s1600-h/b2.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX2Z4wZBoaZvfnWm7Gc_p0CPLsj1OL41fGDUyYtdWXnu66C0hIA0eRTzbmf6GGxAwLE2ExX97SFqS5i8ko9sAj99R7s8twtqVAZ90y0ZEGR6-8eGn7S1Y4pfk9ZvNnbKR6thFT/s320/b2.jpg" border="0" alt="elephant bathing with his mahout (elephant keeper)"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5205660074180595106" /></a><div style="clear:both"></div>Prince Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10920362374578614296noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20993569.post-71740444350418023542008-04-13T04:45:00.000-07:002008-11-13T11:55:16.901-08:00Thenmala: a Place for Freshness & SerenityThe only thing you can notice about Thenmala is the serenity it wears. Thenmala is a very special place on earth, blessed by nature, attracting visitors to its serenity.<br /><br />The eco-tourism project here ensures Thenmala retains its charm for quite a long time. A thoroughly managed tourist site, this place also offers adventure sports like mountain biking.<br /><br />This lake, though low in water still has the charm, as the clouds offer themselves as crowns and necklaces to the blue hills in the background.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaiD2J-d8RTa6aJFZPfgNhz45LeZ2KR5qL4LH75sIHuZYnNqWm8wr8G77MaHaIEfV2i6E4JqXCImv6BMQBKAv8BhqbAiOemJzUNgfcxY2meRzqJ5K4Wc7IkV7qGP-XNzRZPCha/s1600-h/Thenmala-01.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaiD2J-d8RTa6aJFZPfgNhz45LeZ2KR5qL4LH75sIHuZYnNqWm8wr8G77MaHaIEfV2i6E4JqXCImv6BMQBKAv8BhqbAiOemJzUNgfcxY2meRzqJ5K4Wc7IkV7qGP-XNzRZPCha/s320/Thenmala-01.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5188694990097419474" /></a>Prince Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10920362374578614296noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20993569.post-26194613151319754902008-02-19T05:50:00.000-08:002008-02-19T05:56:51.950-08:00Kerala Butterfly Safari Park ThenmalaAsia's first butterfly safari park goes open in Thenmala, Kollam district of Kerala. The 3.5 hectare artificially created expanse attracts different species of butterflies. The butterfly safari park atmosphere simulates natural habitat for butterflies of almost all the different species. The park is now filled with action of winged beauties.<br /><br />The butterfly safari park is designed by Kerala Forest Research Institute, set up by Thenmala Eco Tourism Promotion Society and funded by Kerala Tourism Department. KFRI scientist George Mathew, the chief architect of the butterfly park confirms appearance of 125 different species, including rare butterflies in the park.<br /><br />Butterfly safari park has got a variety of plants to attract butterflies. Different species of butterflies have their own favourite species of plants. The park also has rich variety of shrubs and leafy trees. Water sprinklers and artificial puddles inside the butterfly safari park ensure humid atmosphere suited for butterfly breeding.<br /><br />Visitors to the butterfly safari park will also get a chance to closely witness the lifecycle of various species of butterflies. The butterfly park also has plans to promote the idea of mini-butterfly parks at every home, which would help in conservation of butterfly variety.<br /><br />[Absence of photographs regretted. I'll add photographs of the butterfly safari park after a visit to the place, which will happen sooner than later.]Prince Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10920362374578614296noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20993569.post-53136185785583638282008-02-04T06:05:00.000-08:002008-11-13T11:55:17.311-08:00Flower Show Thiruvananthapuram<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiml8EqNpp8O6EjoryDVBublIIwpv50spB2dIUDR5HJbLD-e_waqBkZ65MRiS8J2AulgQqKO3UBbOgglvPsutWiC8VsKY9IZNDYgZvxeAsG547LAKsWBMDldavZEuSetpN6ibU7/s1600-h/Flower-show-04.JPG"><img align="left" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiml8EqNpp8O6EjoryDVBublIIwpv50spB2dIUDR5HJbLD-e_waqBkZ65MRiS8J2AulgQqKO3UBbOgglvPsutWiC8VsKY9IZNDYgZvxeAsG547LAKsWBMDldavZEuSetpN6ibU7/s320/Flower-show-04.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5163129382255314786" /></a><br />Flower Show Thiruvanathapuram in its 37th edition is buzzing with activity. The sprawling hills of Observatory hills have turned to an enchanting garden - thanks to dozens of nurseries and persons bringing the best of their ornamental plants, totalling 250,000, for the visual delight of Thiruvananthapuram People. <br /><div style="clear:both"></div><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQqJY7ALXob7B7FYaG1vmpfmGUsenB0qe4kFQLPsT96PRRkF8_tVsC-WxYLfSuEGP8Eg0MLNOXx-Ci9fpasIJD3IZFN0GUN9Ku995ctXjz5Ny5D61kSGUlBnpPXdi9sEwo-gdg/s1600-h/Flower-show-01.JPG"><img align="center" width="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQqJY7ALXob7B7FYaG1vmpfmGUsenB0qe4kFQLPsT96PRRkF8_tVsC-WxYLfSuEGP8Eg0MLNOXx-Ci9fpasIJD3IZFN0GUN9Ku995ctXjz5Ny5D61kSGUlBnpPXdi9sEwo-gdg/s320/Flower-show-01.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5163128209729242962" /></a>Prince Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10920362374578614296noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20993569.post-66935636614727078402007-11-04T08:36:00.000-08:002008-11-13T11:55:17.965-08:00Neyyar Dam, Trivandrum, Kerala<div>Neyyar Dam is the biggest of its kind in Thiruvananthapuram District of Kerala. A tall artificial waterfall, lion safari park, crocodile breeding & rehabilitation centers, deer park, a vast reservoir with Western Ghats hills and forests as background and a decently maintained park are the attractions at Neyyar Dam.<br /><br /><div style="clear:both"></div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrKzGOn-HioAYeKLuV0RE8D0TtufmFjE3Th4EjsfUj_mNXtuOaxw8eo0f9h59bQcWpA4PBIvcP8H7afAAmbtGuQvLI61T_Bz62bbbM7iWSGmbndCidamUstOrfY8seVaV-q0Ov/s1600-h/DSC00727.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrKzGOn-HioAYeKLuV0RE8D0TtufmFjE3Th4EjsfUj_mNXtuOaxw8eo0f9h59bQcWpA4PBIvcP8H7afAAmbtGuQvLI61T_Bz62bbbM7iWSGmbndCidamUstOrfY8seVaV-q0Ov/s320/DSC00727.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5129042787301514866" /></a>Sivananda Ashram is another place of interest at Neyyar Dam, where people from India and abroad reach for practicing yoga in a pacifying environment.<br /><br /><br />Neyyar Dam is 30 km from Thiruvananthapuram and is reachable by road only. Neyyar Dam has a small bus stop and a small township.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPoMFfjqrWDxQDOIlbz_xgFWl7WCrPB-_julsAA05f67akETkCzbqjZfewdRnt8eOA4c4CI7q3Kxyli3ZJX475O4ztsjRIjiv9jh5HbxUVo0jjZU3xvW9OQsmLkdSUWbTnPnFe/s1600-h/neyyar-dam-reservoir-1.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPoMFfjqrWDxQDOIlbz_xgFWl7WCrPB-_julsAA05f67akETkCzbqjZfewdRnt8eOA4c4CI7q3Kxyli3ZJX475O4ztsjRIjiv9jh5HbxUVo0jjZU3xvW9OQsmLkdSUWbTnPnFe/s320/neyyar-dam-reservoir-1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5129034373460581986" /></a>The forest beyond Neyyar Dam reservoir is known for its rich biodiversity. The main interest is medicinal plants dispersed in isolation over endless forests. There too are quite a few exotic animals like Giant Malabar Squirrel.<br /><br />A casual visit to this place is fun experience for the whole family. You may take a walk over the reservoir. On one side, you see a vast stretch of water. On the other, you see water falling to a depth of more than a hundred feet. The panoramic view of the garden in front of the dam is also a sight worth the seeing.<br /><br />The main activity, apart from enjoying the beauty of the garden specially designed for picnic is boating in the reservoir. There are quite a few motorboats operated by KTDC (Kerala Tourism Development Corporation), which take you on a ride through the vast lake and by the side of lion safari park. If you are lucky, you can see lions wandering in the forest.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyLvEquwBL8zTpLE7x6mMQFG2VWgAOZLN-cyDz6_q48LylBjzBDw6afAXBk1v9yNxkOtxKo0KqNa5fuDG_LBdeQqAss-oRqVQtdwrvgjk-U0Wo4EsSBp8yMGq-HbfPXyP-Ul3T/s1600-h/steve-irvin-crocodile-rehabilation-&-research.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5129026140008275538" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyLvEquwBL8zTpLE7x6mMQFG2VWgAOZLN-cyDz6_q48LylBjzBDw6afAXBk1v9yNxkOtxKo0KqNa5fuDG_LBdeQqAss-oRqVQtdwrvgjk-U0Wo4EsSBp8yMGq-HbfPXyP-Ul3T/s320/steve-irvin-crocodile-rehabilation-&-research.JPG" border="0" /></a>Steve Irvin Crocodile Rehabilitation and Research Center and a Deer Rehabilitation center are new additions. It is Rs.5 per person for entering the crocodile rehabilitation center. A few crocs and nothing more, I feel dejected for buying the ticket.<br /><br />Apart from a KTDC restaurant, there are no other refreshment facilities. It will be better if you bring your food packed. There is also a gate pass (for vehicles only) of Rs.5 a motorcycle, to the picnic area.<br /><br />Route: Trivandrum – Kattakada – Neyyar Dam: Total distance about 30 km. KSRTC has frequent bus services connecting Trivandrum-Kattakada and Kattakada-Neyyar Dam.</div>Prince Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10920362374578614296noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20993569.post-60284814399830710072007-10-24T17:48:00.001-07:002008-11-13T11:55:18.353-08:00Aruvikkara Dam: the Foster Child of Kerala Tourism<img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLWvIK5ynXVxilm_pWCKxDHDAWF898hYoMcu6so-EdR5v6IafPaxPymHtI1vbZaBMTvnVINtBZe4MCmQghk-xbmCnet9q4q8p2hRuhUgO0bUB-seUwe8t9ajLcIxFvGzgtnnXX1w/s320/Aruvikkara-dam-2.JPG" border="0" alt=" Aruvikkara Dam, Trivandrum, Kerala "id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5125072498058255762" /><br /><br />It may be its location. It may be its lack of coldness. Aruvikkara Dam once enjoyed its status as a good picnic spot, but now is a bushy land that no one wants to take a second look at.<br /><br />A temple near the dam still attracts people, as the belief is that feeding the fish here with rice and flower is remedy for warts (yes that skin condition).<br /><br />There is literally no option for a snack or refreshment, except for a DTPC restaurant. The surroundings of which too have wild bushes. I fear snakes and didn't get the courage to go walk to near the door of the restaurant.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLG8ux3y2CPJjqEs03xVDRd2CsKX0oP99an1S2fZ5YD3gZZHsFKgNELbIyiCIcJlEv67fuW0qdCmqAjwTpqPMVbW3WEaPDvioKcK8UOKiP4l9sGUJyCkjZ6ZByd-acohsQJ45h/s1600-h/Road-near-Aruvikkara-dam.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLG8ux3y2CPJjqEs03xVDRd2CsKX0oP99an1S2fZ5YD3gZZHsFKgNELbIyiCIcJlEv67fuW0qdCmqAjwTpqPMVbW3WEaPDvioKcK8UOKiP4l9sGUJyCkjZ6ZByd-acohsQJ45h/s320/Road-near-Aruvikkara-dam.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5125441233885519266" /></a><br /><br />I've been to Aruvikkara on Wednesday morning, running some errands. I had my camera with me and a quickly snapped some shots on the run. The immediate thought was to get away from the location as fast as possible, that is the amount of bush and thorn that has grown into the areas once preserved as a decent picnic spot. However, I shoot a few snaps, which turn out to be decent photographs. I wonder now why I didn't take more photos.<br /><br />Reaching the place is equally difficult. You need to be extremely cautious on the road to this location. The road is full of potholes. Luckily I ride a two-wheeler and I could somehow maneuver through the sides of the potholes. Still it was tough task not hurting my backbone.<br /><br />It will not be too much of an exaggeration to carry a bag, so that you will not lose your vertebrae on the road.<br /><br />If you want road adventure, the most dangerous of them all, welcome to Aruvikkara Dam.Prince Johnhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10920362374578614296noreply@blogger.com0