Top Ten Places To Visit In Egypt

There’s no other place in the world that holds more mystery than the country of Egypt. The smell of the mysticism of the ancient Egyptians still lingers over the place. This ancient atmosphere seems to fill its every nook and cranny with secrets yet untold.

1.) Pyramids of Giza

Perhaps there is nothing more mysterious, and more worthy of seeing in Egypt than the esteemed Great Pyramids of Giza. These are the pyramids of Khufu, Kafhre, and Menkaura. These perfectly shaped structures leaves everyone in awe and in wonder about how exactly they were made, considering that the ancient Egyptians had no advanced technology to work with.

2.) Sphinx

Of course, if you’re going to go to the Great Pyramids, then you might as well go to the Sphinx. This is one of the most mysterious structures in Egypt. Even now, archeologists are still arguing about its origin and its purpose, making it the subject of the famous phrase, “the Riddle of the Sphinx.”

3.) Abu Simbel

These two temples were built by Pharaoh Ramesses II to commemorate himself and his wife, Nefertari. It’s a breathtaking place, and its temples are hailed as one of the most beautiful in Egypt. What’s even more interesting about the Abu Simbel is the amount of effort put into relocating and preserving it.

4.) Cairo

If you really want to immerse yourself in Egyptian culture, it would be best for you to go to the capital city, Cairo. The place is teeming with bazaars and restaurants where you can buy your taste of Egyptian culture. It’s surely not a place to miss.

5.) Temples of Karnak

What better way to experience ancient Egypt than to visit the very place where they worshipped their gods. The Temples of Karnak is the biggest site for Egyptian worship. It has a monument to just about every god in the Theban religion.

6.) The Nile River

And of course, you can’t miss out on the famous Nile River. It is, after all, what nourished Egypt and turned it into the place of wonder that it is. In fact, what’s great about visiting the Nile is that you can take a Felucca and sail down the legendary river, taking in the sights of the city and the sunset.

7.) Valley of the Kings

The Valley of the Kings or Biban El Moluk is the place where Egypt’s most esteemed pharaohs were buried. This place is teeming with mummies and undiscovered treasures. In fact, this is the place where archeologists found one of the most famous mummies of all time – Tutankhamun. 8.) Egyptian Museum

Of course, since it would be unwise to leave the Egyptian treasures in the tombs they were found in, the archeologists put them in the Egyptian museum where they would be put under high security. If you want to learn about Egypt, this is the best place to start. There’s no other place with a higher concentration of Egyptian artifacts, and you can even follow the tour so that you can be oriented with the history of each of the artifacts.

9.) Siwa Oasis

Egypt isn’t all about temples and pyramids, there’s a place where you can just let loose and have fun – the Siwa Oasis. Here, you can take a swim in the cool waters to ward off the desert heat. It is rumored that Alexander stopped here during his great conquest.

10.) Necropolis of Sakkarah

And indeed, you can’t miss something as intriguing as a ‘Necropolis’ or, if translated, a City of the Dead. Here, you will find the less popular pyramids of Egypt, the step pyramids. However, though they are less popular than the great pyramids, they’re still suffused with great history and culture.

Ten Things To Do If You Visit Bangladesh

Rich culture, beautiful tourist spots, and hospitable people. These are the qualities that all great tourist spots have. And, incidentally, these are also the very qualities that you will find in the beautiful country of Bangladesh.

1.) Catch a glimpse of the Tigers

Tigers, specifically the Royal Bengal Tigers, are magnificent creatures, with their proud and noble bearings and beautifully patterned coats. Watching these tigers gives us a sense of excitement and danger all rolled into one. It’s too bad that they’re endangered, but still, in Bangladesh, you can see these beautiful creatures by visiting the Sundarban National Park.

2.) Fun in the Sun and Sand

If you’re looking for beautiful blue beaches to sunbathe, to swim, or to simply walk around in, then you must go to Bangladesh’s Kuakata. Kuakata is a beach resort that has been recently developed. It is located in the southern part of Bangladesh, but the sea isn’t the only thing this place offers though, because in Kuakata, you can also observe the culture of the Rakhane Tribe. 3.) World’s Longest and Broadest Beach

If any old beach just doesn’t cut it, why don’t you try going to Inani beach found in the South of Bangladesh. It is the world’s longest and broadest beach and is found in Cox’s Bazar. Inani Beach, however, is not as developed as the other beaches such as Patenga, so if you want all the tourist perks, then it’s probably best if you just go to Patenga.

4.) Boating through Bangladesh

If you’re in the mood for boating through the rivers and observing the lush jungles in Bangladesh, then you could try going the Sunderbands National Park. This is a park with several beautiful areas which can only be accessed by using a row boat. If you’re lucky, you’ll also see some of its beautiful wildlife.

5.) Try some Fresh Water

If you’re tired of the salty waters of Bangladesh’s beaches, why don’t you try going to the Rangamati Hill district where the Kapati Lake is located? There, you can indulge in several activities such as swimming, sailing, and fishing. The Kapati Lake is an ideal destination for anyone who likes peaceful outings rather than busy and noisy ones.

6.) Cleanse your Soul with Some Tea

People who don’t like the strong taste of coffee usually prefer the much smoother and cleaner taste of tea. So, if you’re a tea fan, you certainly can’t miss going to Sylhet, located just North of Dhaka. Sylhet is known for its tea-growing traditions, and Srimongol, a place in Sylhet, is the center of the tea gardens in Sylhet.

7.) Games up!

If you want to satiate your sporty side and get away from nature a bit, why not head on to the City Stadium? There, you can enjoy a game of hockey, football, and cricket. You might even get a chance to play with the locals in the playgrounds if you so choose.

8.) Go Bird Watching

If you want to see a sample of Bangladesh’s exotic wildlife, why not go to Rajendrapur National Park, located just 31 miles north of the capital city. Bring your binoculars with you, maybe even your camera and take a few snapshots of the beautifully colored birds residing in the area.

9) Take a walk in the Zoo

Unfortunately, being constantly on the move to look for various animals can be slightly tiring. And there’s always the chance that you’ll get disappointed at the end of the day because of the poor turnout. If you don’t like taking this risk, why not just go to the National Zoo located at Mirpur near the River Turag?

10) The City of Mosque

If you’re going to Bangladesh, you absolutely can’t miss going to Dhaka, the city of Mosques. The wonderful architecture and designs are to die for. Visit Baitul Mukkaram Mosque, the Star Mosque, and the Chawkbazar Mosque, and you’ll be sure to gape in awe at the magnificent designs.

Ten Spectacular Things To Do When You Visit Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is an intriguing city to visit with its rich history and culture. Like all other countries, it would be a site to behold when one compares it to what you have been used to. There are several things you can see and do in this place to make this an enriching experience.

1.) Yala National Park

This park is also referred to as Ruhunu National Park and can be located in the southeast region of Sri Lanka. One can start enjoying the refreshing sight of the park. You can also stroll in the area while seeing leopards here from a safe distance.

2.) Temple of the Tooth

Here is the temple which houses the tooth believed to have been one of the Buddha’s teeth and is a relic that they guard in the temple. It is a most sacred site to believers which you may care to visit and view. They even have a website for this in case you’re interested to know more about it.

3.) Colombo

The country’s capital is a nice place to be in where you can visit a few museums for a little trip to history. What you can find are the National Museum, Natural History Museum, Dutch Period Museum, and the Bandaranaike Museum. All attest to several aspects of Sri Lankan history that visitors can view and be amazed at.

4.) Art Galleries

Art lovers will find something to talk about when they go and visit the National Art Gallery. You may also find similar viewing pleasure by visiting the Sapumal Foundation and the Lionel Wendt Center. It is good to see and compare some things that may be different from your own culture with those of others and appreciate the things that we see.

5.) Zoo

The Colombo zoo is a delight for the children and their parents, and this can be found on the southern area of the city. It is indeed a fine place to be in with an aquarium and night house to view, and there are also elephant shows you can watch. Are you fond of butterflies? Then, come on and see their butterfly park and a few more animal exhibits, and it’s quite large so give it at least two hours to make the entire rounds.

6.) Festivals in Jaffna

It will not surprise you to see some more temples to visit in this place. It has the Nallur, Selva Sannithi and Ninatheevu temples. Festivals that are religious in nature is something you would also expect from this place, and there’s the Chariot Festival which is a considered a big event in Sri Lanka as well as the Harvest festival obseved every January.

7.) Kinchigune Nature Trail

This trail starts at the Sabaragamuwa University which runs along a forest and river. By following this trail, you can get to see paddy fields, village houses and vegetables, and this is a way to get a tutorial on their agricultural system and sample simple living the Sri Lankan way. You may also come across waterfalls, a few more birds and butterflies to enjoy the hike.

8.) Canoeing

If canoeing happens to be your favorite pastime, then indulge in the Samanalawewa reservoir with its still waters that make this a good activity to try. You can even paddle to the river of Belihul Oya for more adventure. Or you can simply explore the entire reservoir for a relaxing ride in the water.

9.) Bambarakada Falls

This waterfall is a sight to watch because it is found inside a basin-like valley and surrounded by steep rocks and forest filled with tropic and pine tress. It is the highest known waterfalls in Sri Lanka which tumbles down to a height of 240 meters. Waterfalls will remain a favorite spot for tourists because of its sheer beauty.

10.) Galle

You should not miss the temple Kalutara located in this city. It is considered good luck if you come over to the Seenigama temple and offer a donation after murmuring a little prayer. There’s also the Fort where you can walk through especially to view the majestic sunset.

Ayurveda Honeymoon Tour Packages

Ayurveda honeymoon tour packages are the latest craze among young tourists visiting Kerala. Honeymoon with Ayurveda packages receive tourists to a one of a kind travel experience, where they experience abundance and fullness of life.

Welcome to a land where the lifestyle of people is their best defense against diseases, a land so blissfully blessed by nature and a land where you can keep your peace of mind while staying away from mental turbulences, tensions and worries.

Newly weds or people looking to refill their life with youthfulness, and people keeping a youthful charm in their minds can come to Kerala to an Ayurveda honeymoon tour. Ayurvedic packages for honeymoon tour are so unique and new that it is not copied anywhere else.

Ayurveda package honeymoon tours mostly include a stay in a luxurious Ayurvedic cottage or in a luxurious houseboat, where the couple receives Ayurvedic healthy diet, medicated oil massage and directions for a healthy life. Visitors take home golden words of healthy, blissful living. Receive advice on everything from healthy lifestyle, food habits, daily yoga practice, meditation and requirement of keeping minds happy, fresh and lively.

Not many Ayurvedic resorts in Kerala offer specialized Ayurveda honeymoon tour programs. The resorts in Kerala that offer Ayurvedic honeymoon trips provide world class living environment, usually in a calm, serene location. Visitors to Kerala utilizing Ayurvedic honeymoon packages also closely watch preparation of healthy food.

Honeymoon Ayurveda packages also come with plenty of opportunity to explore serene backwaters, hill stations, beaches, cardamom hills, tea plantations, coffee plantations, wildlife, boating, trekking, and fishing among many lively locations and activities. Ayurveda honeymoon packages are both thrilling experience and is the where you will be more dedicated to your health, happiness and enjoying life meaningfully.

Ayurveda honeymoon packages can be rightly called holistic healthy Ayurveda yoga tour programs. Come to Kerala, the land blessed so abundantly by God with blissful environment, and the science of life called Ayurveda. Come and take away all your heart can take and prepare to return to this land so often.

Where to visit in France for a Holiday - Seine-Maritime

The Seine-Maritime (department number 76) is located in the region of Haute-Normandie and has an estimated population of 1,245,457 (approximate in 2004). The department was originally known as Seine-Inférieure (Lower Seine) until 1955 when it changed to its current name Seine-Maritime (Coastal-Seine) because Inférieure was regarded as derogatory by the inhabitants of the department.
The capital of the department is the city of Rouen, with the coastal towns of Dieppe and Le Hâvre also featuring within the immediate area. The landscape of the department is typically coastal as you would expect with historic ruins and Norman castles dotting the landscape. Along the coastline is stunning cliff scenery and half-timbered villages. In addition to the gastronomy offerings you would expect in Normandy, namely the cider, fish, meat and cheeses other delectable delights specific of the department include Bénédictine liqueur and apple sugars from Rouen.
Why you should visit Seine-Maritime for your next holiday in France
If you enjoy sightseeing and places with an interesting historic past then you need go no further than Seine-Maritime. Teamed with its magnificent beaches, divine gastronomy and its close proximity to the UK, this department is a perfect destination for a long holiday or short break. The department enjoys a similar climate to the UK but its location means it is slightly milder year round. As with England, summers are warm with temperatures in the mid 20C and in the height of the season, temperatures can reach into the 30's.
What to see in the Seine-Maritime:
Rouen
Rouen is brimming with monuments, medieval streets and churches. The city is particularly famed for the Place du Vieux Marché, where Joan of Arc was martyred. The town's gothic cathedral was a favourite of Claude Monet and he famously painted the cathedral's facade at almost every moment of the day. One of these priceless pieces of art is on show today at the Musée des Beaux Arts. The main routes through the city may be less picturesque but they do keep traffic away from the prettier, medieval pedestrianised centre.
Places of particular interest include:

The Rue Gros Horloge with its big clock.

St Ouen is in some people's opinion more impressive than the cathedral as its interior is often empty leaving the sun to cast colored images from the stained glass across its flagstone floor. Place St Marc on Sunday mornings is the setting for the giant flea market with the majority of the shops open until lunchtime.

The Rive Gauche near the Eglise St Sever hosts a bric-a-brac market on Thursday mornings.
Dieppe
The major cross-Channel port is the main feature of this seaside town but Dieppe has in some ways benefited from the arrival of the tunnel. The seafront has been given a face-lift and the streets are now lined with welcoming cafés and restaurants. The château-musée is situated high on the hill top and boasts panoramic views across the long pebble beach which is host to an annual kite festival. Dieppe continues to be a bustling port and a large Saturday market draws big crowds from the villages around.
Le Havre
Le Hâvre is still a major western ferry port and dominates the mouth of the Seine. The port is a popular choice for holiday makers who would rather spend longer on the crossing than the drive. Places to visit include: Eglise St Joseph Musée Malraux (also known as the Musée des Beaux Arts) houses a fine collection of canvasses by the Impressionists, who painted extensively in Normandy.
Caudebec-en-Caux and Lillebonne
These lovely towns offer several attractions, some still undiscovered to a certain degree. These include the abbey at St Wandrille near Caudebec-en-Caux where the monks sing the Gregorian chant every day, the surprisingly well preserved Roman amphitheatre in the centre of Lillebonne, and the gorgeous cheese from Neufchâtel-en-Bray whose heart-shaped form dates from the Hundred Years' War.
Etretat
Etretat is located along the Alabaster Coast (Côte d'Albâtre) and is famous for its chalk cliffs and needles which were popular subjects by the Impressionists. The town is looking a little weathered but is still worth visiting for its breath-taking scenery and selection of restaurants.
Fécamp
The town is known for its infamous Bénédictine liqueur and guided tours in the palace in the centre of town offers visitors a chance to sample this tipple. Fishing boats still land their catches at Fécamp, guaranteeing fresh seafood in the harbour-front restaurants.
Gournay en Bray
A small town, Gournay en Bray has a lovely little romanesque church.
Le Tréport
Le Tréport is located in the north east of the Seine-Maritime and was popular as a beach resort with Parisians in the late 19th century thanks to a rail link. Surrounded by white cliffs, the quayside houses many hotels and restaurants that enjoy views of the fishing boats and yachts.
Saint Valéry en Caux
St Valéry en Caux is situated west of Dieppe. The towns centre and marina was entirely rebuilt after WWII and the nearby nuclear power station has brought prosperity. A little further west of the town, little rock pools can be found, which are always popular with kiddies of all age.
Yvetot
The capital of Pays de Caux, Yvetot, is an important market town completely rebuilt after WWII. The Wednesday and Saturday markets take over the central streets and it's still possible to hear the ancient dialect Cauchois being spoken. The circular pink church dating from the 1950s may seem an eyesore from outside but the stained glass inside almost makes up for it. How to get there
Holiday accommodation in the Seine Maritime is easily accessible.
By Air
Skysouth are the only direct airline and they fly six times a week direct from Shoreham (ESH) to Caen (CFR). Prices start at around £70 for a single trip.
By Car
Driving would be the common mode of transport to get to the department as Seine-Maritime is just a quick hop across the channel to either Le Hâvre or Dieppe, both conveniently located within the department.
By Train
Go by Eurostar from the UK to Calais and then take the TGV to Le Havre or Rouen.

Elephant Safari in Kerala

The adventure tour in India is popular and especially the elephant safari trips. Elephant safari helps the visitor to travel through such difficult terrains where even jeeps cannot venture. And why not, riding an elephant takes you back to the royal era, when only the kings use to ride on these majestic beasts, since nothing can even compare to the majesty of a Pachyderm. Equipped with a howdah, a large seat on which they would sit, complete with soft silk cushions, and with a ceremonial umbrella over the rider's head, modern day elephant safaris may lack in comparison with the ones that use to be done by the kings, but are no less regal on that account.

The elephant moves slowly and steadily, that's why this type of safari is ideal in and around the wild regions or within the vicinity of the wildlife sanctuaries, where riding the elephant can give you an easy excess for viewing the wildlife. More of all, an elephant safari tour in the tropical wildlife sanctuaries of India gets you up, close and personal with these majestic animals.

During your ride, you can watch the wild elephants taking bath in the water ponds. The photographers can easily take pictures of the wilds while riding and as a souvenir of the amazing journey into the wilds, take one with the elephant too.

Elephant Safari in Kerala

Take a tour of the Periyar sanctuary in search of wildlife and you'd be surprised with what you see. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is the best elephant hub that any animal lover would love to check out. From the rooms of the forest rest houses provided by the Kerala forest department to the tourists within the vicinity of Periyar, you can get a wide-screen view of the whole sanctuary.

Visiting the Lake Palace in Kerala's lake centered wildlife sanctuary of Thekkady, also referred to as the Periyar sanctuary is an experience to remember. When a Maharaja ruled this land, he had a dam thrown across the Periyar River. The backed up waters of the dam flooded a valley, partially submerging trees, leaving their bare trunk standing over their reflections like a Daliesque waterscape. Visitors put-out around this surreal lake, delight in spotting wildlife including herds of foraging wild elephants.

Periyar is, clearly, the safest elephant sanctuary of India and the world. Elephants have never been known to attack a tourist launch, even as the vehicle passes by a herd of elephants taking a royal bathe. Elephant, Wild Pig, Sambar and Guar are the four most popular element of wildlife at Thekkady.

Birds Sanctuary in Kerala

You can watch a wide variety of beautiful exotic birds at the birds' sanctuaries of Kerala. Birds sanctuaries of Kerala have excellent moist deciduous teak forests and marshes dominated by bamboo and other grasses, most favourable environ for aerial population in India. These forests are also said to be amongst the most extensively forested belts in the Indian Peninsula housing some of the most desired homes of migratory birds in Kerala. On the travel vacations to Kerala the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary, and Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary offers some of the excellent photography options.

Kerala Birds Sanctuaries

The Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary (also commonly known as the Thattekad Sanctuary) is located in the Kothamangalam Taluk of Ernakulam district on the northern bank of the Periyar River. The sanctuary was notified in 1983 based on a recommendation made by Dr. Salim Ali many years previously. Ali described Thattekad in the 1930's as the richest bird habitat in peninsular India, comparable only with the eastern Himalayas. The reserve boasts of a variety of migratory and resident bird species, including the rare Ceylon frogmouth and the rose-billed roller.

The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary lies 12km from Kottayam bordering the Vembanad Lake, and spread over 14 acres of land. This famous sanctuary is a haunt for migratory birds like darters, egrets, herons, teals, waterfowls, cuckoos and wild ducks amongst others. One can even get a glimpse of the Siberian storks that migrate to this place almost every year.

The Kumarakom bird sanctuary, an ornithologist's paradise, is a favourite haunt of migratory birds like the siberian stork, egret, darter, heron and teal. Other common varieties like the woodpecker, skylark, crane, water hen and parrots can also be spotted here. A cruise along the Vembanad Lake is the best way to experience the sanctuary.

Pathiramanal, an enchanting island on the lake, can be accessed by boat from here. People seeking the thrill of exploring the natural beauty and its habitants in India will get the enchanting pleasure and enthusiasm from the bird's sanctuaries of Kerala.

While tour through the bird sanctuaries of Kerala you come across rare species of birds. Birds are everywhere-a paradise of birds. The bird's are gifted by the mother nature with various colours the bird species are making the bird sanctuary a multi-hued heaven, beside, the shrill voices of the birds are adding more liveliness to the park’s atmosphere. The acrobatic skills of birds, eye catching migratory birds and after all the euphony of birds every morning and evening in the green patch of Kerala is joyful.

The Birds of Kumarakom Sanctuary

The sanctuary is a home to most of the avian species. Some of these permanently live and dwell here while there are other species of birds that migrate here from far off continents. Migratory birds which visit the sanctuary every year are Siberian Cranes, Indian Peafowl, Egrets, Darters, Herons, Parrots, Larks, Flycatchers, Wood Beetles and Teals. Resident bird species include Waterfowls, Cuckoos, Owls, Egrets, Herons and the water duck.

The Birds of Thattekkad Sanctuary

Rare birds like the Crimson-Throated Barbet, Bee-eater, Sunbird, Shrike, Black winged Kite, Grey Heron and the Night Heron are also commonly sighted. Indian roller, cuckoo, common snipe, crow pheasant, jungle nightjar, kite, grey drongo, Malabar trogon, woodpecker, large pied wagtail, baya sparrow, grey jungle fowl, Indian hill myna, robin bird, jungle babbler and darter are some of the common birds found here. There are a few rare birds as well which include: sunbird, shrike, fairy blue-bird, grey-headed fishing eagle, blackwinged kite etc.

Tiger Trail in Kerala

You can see a tiger feeding its cubs real close, while staying safely mounted on an elephant's back, provided you are in Kerala forests and you are lucky enough for such a marvellous sight. While tiger trail in Kerala you will be led by a small team of highly experienced guides – who have quit their former jobs as poachers of tigers, elephants and plants such as sandalwood and teak – you’ll hike into cool, green forests and out again into vast, sunny meadows; and hang out with an astounding array of wildlife including elephants, sambar deer, birds like the brilliant blue kingfisher and the great pied hornbill, and more than 100 species of butterflies. Oh yes, you might also catch a glimpse of one of Periyar’s 41 protected tigers, too.
Here, one may chance to encounter much indigenous wildlife like Nilgiri langur, giant squirrel, elephant and who knows, even the tiger! The trek route passes through hills and valleys with a variety of tropical plants and wide-open spaces. Enroute vegetarian meals will be prepared and served and country tents will be pitched for holing up in the night. Trekking groups are accompanied by armed forest guards with good communication equipments, and geared to face any emergency situation. The traveller can listen to unusual and strange adventure stories of the former poachers, now your guides and protectors of the forests.
Periyar Tiger Trail
Periyar tiger Reserve, Thekkady, is an example of nature’s bounty, with great scenic charm, rich bio diversity and providing veritable visitor satisfaction. Sprawled over an area of 777 Sq .km, Periyar is one of the 27 tiger reserves in India. The tiger trail through the Periyar Tiger Reserve is a stunning experience for the traveller and a life time experience.
People all over from India and foreign countries are widely attracted towards the tiger trail in Kerala. The Periyar tiger trail covers a distance of about 20 to 35 kilometres and the conducting team is a group of poachers. They know how to lead you safely through the jungle and they are the protectors of the forest too. This people have good knowledge about the terrain and animals dwelling in the forest. Tourists get a chance to encounter the tigers which is an amazing experience.
The Periyar Tiger Trail is a foray into the thrilling Kerala kaleidoscope. Offering irresistible charms to the adventure lover, a tiger trail through the thick ever green forests up lift you mentally to a thrilling world. Wandering to watch a tiger near is something like an adventure never before. The glimpse of any of the Periyar's protected tigers-a clear picture of beast beauty and thrill forever.

Jeep Safari in Kerala Forests

Like Camel and Horse safaris in India, another popular form is the Jeep Safari. The Jeep Safari not only refreshes and revitalises but one feels close to nature while driving through the quiet and beautiful countryside. Let your senses sway to the romance of the surroundings as you pass forts, palaces, historical landmarks and villages.
Jeep Safari in Kerala
If anyone wants to actively explore the most beautiful sites of Kerala and take a wild and exciting ride to the other side, the Jeep Safari Adventure will be the right ticket. In kerala you have tours consisting of small groups to offer an even more personalized service. The tour guides have many years of experience in the tourism sector.
Explore the varied geo-morphological features of Kerala on Jeep Safari Tours in Kerala. An adventurous tour to any part of Kerala is accomplished in a better and more exciting way on jeep safaris. Jeep safari is the best way to travel on a rugged terrain, hilly terrain, or any other off beaten track in Kerala. Jeep Safari Tours in kerala helps you in discovering those aspects of kerala that you have read in the books or seen on informative channels and fin hard to travel in any other mode of transportation.
Cross wild rivers are made for adventurous on jeeps. Explore the unknown while admiring the natural beauty at its best on a jeep safari. Jeeps can take you o the interiors of a village or a town where heavy and huge buses found hard to travel. This not only ensures you greater excitement but also that you get to see much more. The visitors can enjoy the Kerala adventure jeep safari with a thrilling mind.
The Kerala adventure jeep safari really goes through an exciting route of winding roads, a few narrow unsurfaced roads where two vehicles cannot easily pass each other. The road passes through dense forests, the trees soaring up meters. Road hazards include flocks of sheep and traditionally dressed village women.
At Mudamalai Sanctuary, visitors can enjoy jeep safaris depending on the interests. A lot of other unexplored places are there in Kerala perfect for Jeep Safari. Anyone seeking jeep safari in India will get information about the stunning routes of Kerala. Visitors interested in Jeep Safari training will be provided.
Kerala adventure Jeep Safari is well known all over the country and tourists from all over the world are getting interested in the activity.
The Jeep Safari is mind blowing through any part of Western Ghats. The traveller feels riding through the heaven on earth. Vast stretches of undulating forests and greens peppered with flowers and mountain streams fill up with joy. While on the jeep safari you are the part of the natural beauty.

Wildlife in Kerala

Kerala is studded with natural gems as it boasts of a diverse topography rich with mountains, lakes, rivers, backwaters, and beaches. Apart from this Kerala also has an amazing variety of animals, birds and marine life. It is only natural for Kerala to be the home of a wide array of national parks and sanctuaries.
Wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala are home to varied forms of wildlife and offer animal lovers an opportunity to watch rare species in their natural habitats. The emerald green forests and its wonderful flora and fauna are the reason behind Kerala being a much sought after wildlife destination and a natural abode for many animal species.
Flanked by the Western Ghats on its east and the Malabar Coast on its west Kerala is flushed by beautiful backwaters. Kerala is truly a nature lovers’ paradise with lush tropical evergreen rain forests supporting a rich array of land, marine and avian wildlife.
Some unique wildlife species one can spot are rare elephants, Nilgiri Tahr, Leopards, Lion-Tailed Macaque, Deer, Monkeys, Civet Cats, and Squirrels including the Malabar Giant Squirrel. For bird lovers, Kerala has species such Woodpeckers, Malabar Hornbills, Kingfishers, Cormorants, Darters, Plovers, and Brahminy Kites along the backwaters of Kerala.
As you cruise along the Kerala backwaters you can come across many beautiful, resplendent butterflies and moths as well. The coastlines also have many rare species of Crabs, Mudskippers, Turtles and deeper in the water you can see fish and even Crocodiles.
A major national park in Kerala is the Periyar National Park that is located along the Periyar Lake and river. Periyar is natural habitat of to a wide variety of flora and fauna. Elephants, Tigers, Leopards, Gaur, Sambar, Malabar Flying Squirrel, Mongoose, and Wild Pigs, can be spotted. 260 species of birds including Nilgiri Wood Pigeon, Blue-Winged Parakeet, Flycatchers, and Laughing Thrushes are also found.
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is placed around the Vembanad Lake near the backwaters. Various migratory birds throng here from as far as Siberia and the Himalayas. The Siberian Stork, Teal, Egret, Heron and Darter can be regularly seen here.
Chinnar Wildlife sanctuary is located in Idukki district and is home to the rare Giant Grizzled Squirrel.
The Silent Valley National Park is in Palakkad district of Kerala is a prized site for environmental research and conservation. It forms the core area of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve. Silent Valley National Park situated in the Palakkad District of Kerala is considered India's last area of tropical ever green forest and is a precious biodiversity resource. You can enjoy observing rare animals, birds, butterflies, snakes, amphibians and lizards on silent valley tour. The silent valley is a veritable treasure house-a gene pool of tropical flora and fauna.
During your wildlife tours to the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary in Kerala, South India you can feast your eyes on the greenery and exotic flora that create a habitat for the animals and birds who stay at this wildlife sanctuary in Kerala, South India.
The list of wild life sanctuaries in Kerala is vast : Parambikkulam, Periyar, Chinnar, Idukki, Peppara, Neyyar, Peechi-Vazhani, Shendurni, Wayanad, Thattekad and Aralam Wildlife Sanctuaries and Eravikulam National Park enriches Kerala.

Waterfalls in Kerala

Kerala is famous for its picturesque waterfalls. The special beauty of waterfalls in Kerala is something one must experience in a life time. To spend a romantic day beside the gurgling, whispering and laughing waters of the waterfalls of the Kerala is a stunning experience. Combined with greenery, Kerala waterfalls infuse freshness into any tired soul.

The cool, misty waters cascading down in the backdrop of hick green forest and rocky terrain are a scintillating experience to visitors. During the season of monsoon, the rivers and water bodies of Kerala are experiencing a new lease of life and it is the best time to venturing out in the woods and watch a waterfall in its full glory. The forests nearby the kerala waterfalls are also a great spot to watch birds and also other species of fauna and flora. A trail along the stream to explore the sights on either side is another option while watching some of the waterfalls.
Famous Waterfalls of Kerala
Vazhachal - The scenic beauty of Vazhachal (63 km from Thrissur) catches your attention the moment you enter the area dominated by the Sholayar ranges. Falling from a height of 80 feet, the Vazhachal waterfall presents an awe inspiring scene for tourists to view and enjoy. Athirappally - Athirappally fall is 5 km away from the Vazhachal waterfall merges with the water of the Chalakudy river after falling from atop. Both these waterfalls with their pure and clean water are completely mesmerizing for visitors.
Thomankuttu - Thomankuttu is well known for its beautiful waterfalls. Lying at a distance of 74 km from Cochin, the seven steps Thomankuttu waterfalls is splendid in its beauty and charm. Each step provides a cascade and a pool beneath. Numerous caves surround the waterfall which has emerged as a hotspot for tourists wishing to chill out.
Palaruvi - At a distance of 75 km from Kollam and at the Kerala - Tamil Nadu border lies the beautiful Palaruvi waterfall. Rushing down from a height of 300 feet and with numerous other smaller cascades surrounding it, the Palaruvi waterfall appears more like a fall of milk. The pool below where the water falling down collects is ideal for swimming Power House Waterfall - While on your way to view the magnificent wildlife of the Periyar Sanctuary from Munnar, stop by to view the Powerhouse Waterfall. They are a visual treat for eyes. Falling from a great height of 2000 m, the fall takes its spectator by surprise due its beauty. Western Mountain ranges surrounding it add to its beauty.
Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall - Another ideal picnic spot for the tourists, the Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls falls from a height of 100 feet. The highlights of this waterfall are numerous streams that make their way through the landscape occupied with rubber plantation.

Mithila and its Art of Painting

In his Ramayan, Tulsidas gives an elaborate description of how the entire Mithila region of Bihar was decorated for the marriage of Sita with Ram. These decorations consisted chiefly of vivid murals depicting mythological personages, deities of the Hindu pantheon and the flora and fauna of the region.

This art of painting, an established tradition even then, has survived to this day, passed down for centuries from every Maithil (resident of Mithila] mother to her daughter.

Today, these ceremonial decorations - popularly identified as Madhubani paintings, after the town which is a major centre of their export - can be seen on house walls in the districts of Champaran, Saharsa, Muzaffarpur, Vaishali, Darbhanga, Madhubani (more profusely here than elsewhere), Samastipur, parts of the districts of Monghyr, Begusarai, Bhagalpur and Purnea, which together form the region of Mithila.
The Forest of Honey
Well marked naturally by the foothills of the Himalaya in the north, the river Ganga in the south and by the rivers Mahananda and Gandaki in the east and west respectively, Mithila spreads over 25,000 sq miles of rock-free alluvial plains. It is dotted over by thousands of pools, and crops of cotton, indigo, sugarcane, wheat, rice, lentils, maize and all the vegetables of a temperate clime are grown here. It is this fertility which inspired people to name it Madhubani, the Forest of Honey. Today, Madhubani is one of Mithila's two chief towns (the other is Darbhanga).
The Domain of Women
The folk paintings of Mithila are-the exclusive monopoly ot women artists. This is a communal activity and one in whicl young girls are allowed to assist. This enables them to learn early to draw and paint - skills which are put to the test when, as grown-up women, they are expected to present the kohbar- a picture used as a marriage proposal, to a man or their choice. Heavily charged with tantric symbolism in its basic design and composition, a kohbar depicts a pictorial intercourse using the lingam (phallus) and yoni (vulva) symbols. Not only can this fresco be seen on every bedroom wall in Mithila but the first kohbars in a courtship are used to wrap various gifts.
The Divine Tapestry
Another central figure of Maithili paintings is Krishna, the eighth avatar (incarnation) of Vishnu and one of the most popular gods in India. The ecstatic circle in which he leads the gopis or his cowherd-lovers is interpreted as the wheel of life, of appearances revolving eternally. If the Shiva lingam represents mystic ecstasy, and Krishna the passionate repetition of the act of love, Rama - the seventh avatar oi Vishnu - is archetypal together with his wife Sita (an incarnation of Vishnu's wife, goddess Lakshmi), of marital devotion.Other avatars of Vishnu; female deities like Kali, Durga, Parvati - different aspects of the same power; Lakshmi and Saraswati are all honoured at appropriate times. These divine beings are positioned centrally or lineally in the framework. In the dense background are depicted their consorts, their respective mounts, fruit bearing trees, clumps of bamboo, floral motifs and numerous other symbols to which the viewer can relate without mental strain.
Reflecting Nature's Fecundity
A scale is established to convey vastness by juxtaposing figures of human beings, animals and birds - with towering forms. The smallest of gaps is then filled with birds, leaves, flowers or ceremonial objects to show the fecundity of nature. Viewed as a whole, the harmony reflected in the utilization of space and in the picturisation, conveys the artist's understanding of peaceful co-existence of man and bird and beast.
Living in Harmony
This understanding of the importance of living in harmony was, in the past, extended even to the practice of preparing colours from plant extract.

Three cardinal rules governed this :

no one was to destroy another's garden,

no money was to be spent on the collection of materials,

and no colours were to be made out of edible plants.

The artists used the juice of locally available creepers and flowers : henna leaves, the palash flower, bougainvillaea and the sap of the neemtree, to obtain a range of colours. For black,they ingeniously removed the soot collected on the underside of their earthen cooking vessels and fixed it by using the viscous substance surrounding the seed of the fruit.
The Artist's Tools
Nowadays, paints are generally bought in the bazaars rather than prepared indigenously. Colours are available in powdered form, which are then mixed with goat's milk. For black, the women rely on burnt straw and for white, on powdered rice diluted with water. The colours are usually deep red, green, blue, black, light yellow, pink, and lemon. Two kinds of locally made brushes are used once the paints -e ready. A small bamboo-twig with a slightly frayed end is sed for outlines and tiny details. The filling in of space is one with the aid of a pihua, made from tying a small piece of cloth to a twig. The outline is drawn in a single flow of the brush without preliminary sketching.

Humble Canvases

Although to the outside world Maithil paintings are available on paper, the usual base on which the women paint are the mud-walls of their dwellings. However, the use of paper (as gift wrapping) as a canvas was known long before these paintings acquired saleability. It is also used to preserve the more elaborate or less frequently drawn pictures on a smaller-scale, which then serve aide-memoires.
Tradition and The Individual
Mithila murals convey a sense of timelessness, it is t'.ue to the lack of significant variation in style from generation to generation. Though new schools are born with each generation, the similarities in the use of colour, form and iconography appear like strong currents of inherited knowledge. Many Maithil women have received recognition fur being mistresses of their art and yet it is not a unique individual sensibility that speaks through their artistic creations. Visible in their offerings is an anonymous creative mind with millennia of traditional knowledge.

Pilgrim Centres in Kerala

Kerala pilgrim centres receive pilgrims from all over India and around the world. You feel the tout God’s own Country literally true when you see a number of pilgrim centres in Kerala.

This land is interspersed with Hindu, Muslim and Christian pilgrim centres.

The most famous Kerala Hindu pilgrim centres include Sabarimala Ayyapa Temple, atop a mountain named Sabarimala, Agastyarkoodam towards the southern part of Western Ghats etc. River Pampa hosts both Christian and Hindu religious conventions in the summer.

Malayatoor in Central Kerala and Kurisumala in South are pilgrim centres to Christians.

Sivagiri and Aruvippuram are now two pilgrim centers that remind us of the extra ordinary courage of a sanyasin named Sree Narayana Guru.

Beema Palli at Thiruvananthapuram is an important pilgrimage center for Muslims in Kerala. Pilgrimage to Sabarimala

Sabarimala is a pilgrim centre in Kerala in the Western Ghat mountain ranges of India. Lord Ayyappan's temple is situated here in the midst of 18 hills. The pilgrimage to Sabarimala is a singular example of one where pilgrims, without consideration of caste, creed, position or social status, go with one mind and one `mantra' dreaming constantly of the darshan of the presiding deity at the Holy Sannidhanam. Vehicles can go up to Pampa. Thereafter, pilgrims have to follow a path approximately four kilometres up a steep hill. The path, now fully cemented, with shops and medical aid by the sides, used to be a mere trail through dense forest.

Pilgrimage at Sivagiri

Sivagiri, a hillock at Varkala is the final resting place of the great social reformer, Sree Narayana Guru. This is an important centre of pilgrimage. This great soul's visions and teachings have great relevance in the modern world. The Guru throughout his life highlighted the simple truth that all human beings are equal creations of the god almighty and meticulously advocated the value of mutual respect, brotherliness and solidarity.

Guruvayoor

The Guruvayur Shri Krishna Temple is one of the most important and sacred pilgrim centres of Kerala. It is located in Guruvayur town of Thrissur district in Kerala, India and is easily accessible by road and rail. The presiding deity is MahaVishnu, in the standing posture with four hands which carry a Sankhu (conch), Sudarshana chakram (a serrated disk), lotus and mace. He is worshipped as Balakrishna, the full avatar (Purnaavatara) of Mahavishnu. The idol is made of a rare stone known as Patala Anjana.

The Attukal Temple

Attukal is a Hindu pilgrim center in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India. The Attukal Bhagavathy Temple, one of the ancient temples of South India, is popularly described as Sabarimala of the Women. In Attukal temple, the Pongala Mahotsavam is a ten-day programme which starts on the Karthika star of the Malayalam month of Makaram-Kumbham (February-March) and closing with the sacrificial offering known as Kuruthitharpanam at night.

Kerala Christian Pilgrim Centres

St. Sebastian's Aruthunkal is one of the most important pilgrim centres of the Christians in Kerala, popularly known as St. Sebastian Church, 22 kms. North of Alleppey.

Blessed Alphonsa, Bharananganam is one of the important pilgrim centres of the Christians in Kerala.

St. Mary's Church (Valiapally), St. Francis Church, Fort Kochi, St. George Church, Edappally, Kochi,St. Mary's Church,Vallarpadam,Kochi, Christ the King Church, Thiruvananthapuram are some of the Christian pilgrim centres.

Islamic Pilgrim Centres

Cheraman Juma Masjid, Kodungallore, Ottapalam Juma Masjid, The Jama-at mosque, Malappuram, Pazhayangadi Mosque, Kondotti etc are famous for Islamic pilgrimage. Kerala also believes unity in diversity and we can come across the pilgrim centres of different religious faiths all over Kerala.

Beaches in Kerala

The Kerala beaches have a wide variety of options to enjoy. The glistening beaches of Kerala are picture perfect. They make for serene walks and calming conversations. One can also indulge in a plethora of water sports activities and beach bumming here. Those who search solitude and seclusion can also get from the beaches of Kerala. A vacation exploring on Kerala beaches will leave you asking for more. Beach vacation plan will offer rest for the weary career-person, rejuvenation for the aged that don’t do well in colder climes and add to the elements of fun, frolic and adventure for the younger lot!

Nature intended the many beaches of Kerala to being gathering places offering welcoming, sunny spots for sun-worshippers and the adventurous at heart, who love to ride the untamed waves and enjoy the thrills of many water sports. The variety and distinct taste of coastal cuisine, endless scope for shopping and spa treatments makes up the rest of the best beach vacations in Kerala ideal.

All the famous beaches of Kerala are offering natural beauty moments captured by sunset cruises, surfing and swimming and relaxing ayurveda massage with special natural herbal oils. The Kerala beautiful beaches have their own unique significance. With its unique charm and fascination, beaches of Kerala never fail to allure you.

Kovalam Beach

Kovalam is on of the natural bay on the Arabian Sea cost of Kerala and with its blue waters, white sand and green coconut trees look like a picture card image of a tropical paradise. Today Kovalam is known as the "paradise of the south" Azure water and favourable climate make Kovalam a favourite-year round spot for swimming. Many people from different countries and cultures intermingle with each other and get together in this charming beach is just 10 km from the state capital Thiruvananthapuram.

Varkala Beach

The Varkala Beach also known as Papanasam Beach is famous for its mineral springs. It is believed that bathing in the beach will wash away all of one's sins. The beach landscape, rocky cliff ends and everything are striking sites. The sunset at Kerala beaches are truly breathtaking with the sun sinking into the sky like a ball of molten gold as the sun and sea are tinged with crimson and vermillion. Every kind of outdoor recreational and adventure activities are available at Kerala beaches. The special ayurvedic resorts near the beaches provide natural care and cure to both the mind and body of the visitor.

The list of beaches in Kerala is numerous. Alappuzha Beach, Bekal Beach, Beypore Beach, Cherai Beach, Ezhimala Beach, Fort Kochi Beach, Kappad Beach, Kappil Beach, Marari Beach, Payyambalam beach, Shanghumukham Beach, Somatheeram Beach, Thangassery Beach, Thirumullavaram Beach and Vallikunnu Beach are some of the other beaches of Kerala. The predominent beaches offer the life time experience for the visitors.

White Water Rafting in Kerala

White water rafting is a popular type of outdoor sport which attracts every outdoor sport lovers. Also called simply rafting, white water rafting is an exciting aquatic adventure that can be enjoyed by individuals of all skill levels with proper guidance and instruction.

White water rafting uses specialized rubber rafts that are very sturdy and flexible. These rafts can accommodate a wide range of people, depending on need and build, although eight to ten individuals is a standard number. All the rafters have paddles, which are used to guide and propel the raft through the water. With a trained guide, it is possible to have a raft with only one or two experienced people and a crew of novices, depending on the difficulty of the waters being rafted.

The excitement in white water rafting comes from the white water, a term referring to the level of turbulence in the river, or rapids. White water can be caused by changes in elevation to the riverbed, rocks or other obstacles in the water, and flow from snow melt and rain. White water rapids have a range of classes, from one, which indicates small, slow moving rapids that are safe for all levels of experience, to six, which indicates a dangerous and perhaps When done with safety in mind white water rafting is a great adventure sport is great fun and fantastic way to get in touch with the outdoors.

White Water Rafting in Kerala

Kerala Rivers provide excellent opportunities for white water rafting. Bhoothathankettu is a perfect destination in Kerala for the white water rafting. Kerala being the land of rivers, lagoons and lakes in the interiors and the sea on the west, makes it an ideal destination for those inclined to white water rafting for relaxation and adventure. Be swept along a rushing river in a rubber raft, tumble over rapids, plunge over waterfalls and feel the icy spray splash on your face, as your raft races along a mountain river in Kerala. Experience the thrill of white water rafting in Kerala.

River rafting in Kerala is an exhilarating experience that you can enjoy on your Indian Holiday. One of the best regions for river rafting in India is the Kerala White water rafting on Kerala Rivers is a popular adventure tourism activity in summer in South India, Kerala. You will be given training by experienced river rafting instructors and guides. You will travel in groups in rafts, with an instructor at all times.

Life jackets and other essential safety equipment are provided. You can stay overnight in luxury tents, pitched on beaches alongside the river, as we halt each night. You can also enjoy campfires and bonfire nights on river rafting tours in South India, Kerala. As you swoop and tumble over the rapids with exotic names such as 'Roller Coaster;' 'Crossfire' and 'The Wall' you will feel the excitement and heart-racing thrill of white water rafting.

Parasailing in Kerala

Parasailing is a sport for outdoor adventure sport lovers, involving a parachute and a boat. The person practicing parasailing is attached to a parachute and then tied to a motorboat, which drives off, getting, and keeping, the person off the ground.

Parasailing is considered by many a hobby rather than a sport, since the person on the parachute has no control over movement and speed and therefore becomes simply a passenger. Some countries perform parasailing without a boat, by attaching the person to a land vehicle. This is, however, considered more dangerous, and only recommended to those who have some practice in parasailing beforehand.

Parasailing can be practiced by anybody, as it does not require any specific skill except the ability to swim.

Parasailing in Kerala

Kerala, God's own country and also known as the land of water bodies as it is bordered by the Arabian Sea at one side and has an intricate mesh of lazuline backwaters, lakes and 44 rivers with their extensive tributaries and distributaries. Thus availability of such a large number of bodies of water make Kerala a fine destination for water sports and thrilling activities like Catamaran Sailing, Kayaking, Snorkelling, Wind Surfing, Canoeing and obviously Para Sailing. Such adventurous activities are arranged by numerous Beach Resorts and Sports club.

Every beach offers different type of activities owing to the depth of the water and other favourable resources. Parasailing has gained great popularity among the youngsters. It is a perfect sport for those who are brimming with enthusiasm and zest for life, for those who are not afraid of heights and who are the lovers of risks. Best time-Parasailing can be done anytime except for monsoons.

The Varkala Beach which is located about 51 km from Thiruvananthapuram, offers scuba diving, parasailing, deep sea fishing and windsurfing .

The Alappuzha Beach also offers water sports activities.

There are three kinds of parasailing- Platform Parasailing, Beach Parasailing and Winch boat Parasailing. The best season to enjoy parasailing in Kerala would be October to March. The skies are clear and cloudless, as the rain clouds have poured already. The temperature and flow of wind is really ideal to enjoy the ride and one can enjoy the pleasure of viewing the clear sky and the beauty of water below while parasailing.

In Kerala there’s nothing quite like being winched out into the sky with the parasail billowing out behind you. You’ll rise one hundred metres into the air, and then the ride is up to you. Sit back and enjoy the feeling of being suspended in the air with nothing between you and the open environment, or ask for a wild ride where you’re unceremoniously dunked into the water before being hoisted back into the sky.

If you're after a real thrill that will turn you into a human kite for a while, then parasling in Kerala is for you. You also don't need any sort of skill. Experienced operators will make sure you are strapped into your harness good and proper, and then all you have to do is sit back and enjoy the ride of a lifetime.

Kayaking in Kerala Backwaters

Kayaking is a recreational sport in which participants use specialized boats called kayaks in a wide variety of waterways. Kayaks are boats which take a number of forms, depending on the function for which they are designed. People can take kayaking trips on the ocean, up rivers, in surf zones, and along white water courses. Participants can often have minimal skills and still greatly enjoy themselves. Some people take kayaks with them when they travel to go kayaking, and others rent kayaks or participate in guided kayaking trips at a destination.

A kayak is a boat with a covered deck and a small hole for someone to sit in. The legs of the sitter are concealed, warm and dry, inside the boat. They were originally designed for use in the Arctic, where cold water spilling into a boat could potentially be dangerous for someone using it. Many traditional kayaks were custom made for the individual user. Kayaks are propelled using double bladed oars, and they can be quite rapid and manoeuvrable.

For kayaking camping trips, waterproof bags which can be stuffed into the kayak are extremely useful. Longer kayaks often have a separate hatch for stowing gear. Kayak camping is a great way to explore the outdoors from the water, pulling ashore to hike, camp, or eat.

Kayaking in Kerala

Kayaking is the best way to explore the backwaters of Kerala. The environmental impact is minimal and the expedition provides an opportunity to meet up with the villagers, understanding their culture and enjoying their hospitality and a lot of other things. A kayaking trip on the beautiful Periyar and the world famous backwaters of Kerala is a combination of nature while on the Periyar and the village life while on the backwaters. Tourists can indulge in kayaking in the backwaters of Kerala like the Alappuzha, Kottayam, Kozhikode and Thiruvallam and around the mountain where the rivers flow.

The scenic landscape is a treat for those kayaking in Kerala. Backwaters, a large garland of lagoons, lakes, rivers & canals are exclusive to Kerala. The most elaborate and spectacular stretch are near the ancient port city of Alleppey. As you kayak down these narrow rivulets, lakes and lagoons, what you see will give you a ringside view of life along the backwaters – unhurried and unspoiled, friendly and welcoming. Accommodation is arranged at well-appointed Heritage Villas, country homes and small family-owned resorts. Ethnic food, unseen stretches of backwaters and genuine small world hospitality makes this experience stand out.

The wide range of backwaters and beaches in Kerala offers stunning experience for the kayaking fans. A life time experience filled with enthusiasm, pleasure, adventure and knowledge of Kerala life style and culture.

Mystic Hill and Natural Medicinal Plants – Agastyar Koodam

Agastyarkoodam (agastyar kudam or agastya malai) is a 1,868 metres (6,129 ft) peak in the Western Ghats of South India. The mountain lies on the border between the Indian states of Kerala (in Kollam and Thiruvananthapuram District) and Tamil Nadu (in Tirunelveli). The perennial river Thamiarabarni originates from this hill and flows in Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu.
Agastya Malai is a pilgrimage centre for devotees of the Hindu sage Agasthya, who is considered to be one of the seven rishis (Saptarishi) of Hindu Puranas. The Tamil language is considered to be a boon from Agasthya. There is a full-sized statue of Agasthya at the top of the peak and the devotees offer pujas there. This evergreen rain forest is the dwelling place of two hundred odd different plant species.
From grass to sky-kissing huge trees and innumerable animal species including elephants, lion tailed monkeys, bears, leopard etc. Tiger spider, rare frog species are also found in Agastyarkudam. Rich with many orchid species (like Druri) rare medicinal plants, it is an invaluable treasure of nature. From the pristine purity of the greenery originates Karamanayar, Thamaraparni and Kothayar, three important rivers of the Trivandrum district.
A haven of rare herbs and medicinal plants, its slopes offer a breathtaking sight when they transform into colourful glades of the 'Neelakurinji' a flower, which blooms only once in twelve years.
Herbs and Medicinal Plants of Agastyar Koodam
The lower elevations of this peak are also known for their abundance of rare herbs and medicinal plants. Around 2,000 medical plants used in Ayurvedic treatments are found here. Europeans, particularly those from England, were the first to establish tea gardens around the base stations of Agasthyarkoodam at Brimore, Bonacaud, and Ponmudi. The Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve harbours rare flora and fauna.

Adventures of Agastyar Koodam
The agastyar koodam is a popular trekking spot. The mountain is formed like a sharp cone and the trekker can enjoy the more spirit in climbing it. The ideal time to trekking is from December to January. The trekking path is surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Meadows and streams, reed groves, `bonsai'-type trees clinging to the hillsides, the lonely walkway in the woods... The only sounds you hear during the trek are the swish of the trees, gurgle of water in the rivulets, the `sudden' chirping of a thousand crickets in unison and the sweet warbling of birds!
How to Reach Agastyar Koodam
Agastya Malai is located 32 km from Neyyar Dam. The major city and airport nearest to Agastya Malai is Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum) and its Trivandrum International Airport, around 61 km away. The nearest railway station is Ambasamudram of Tirunelveli District, in Tamil Nadu. The pass from the Kerala forest department is needed for trekking.

Touring Paris - The Fifth Arrondissement

The 5th arrondissement is on the Left Bank of the Seine River in central Paris. It is often known as the Quartier Latin (Latin Quarter) although it's been a long time since many have spoken Latin there.

Its population is slightly under sixty thousand and the district provides almost fifty thousand jobs. It is fairly small; less than a square mile (about two and a half square kilometers). This is one of the oldest districts in all Paris and offers some attractions dating back to the time of the Romans who never called it the Latin Quarter. The Roman town Lutetia was built in the First Century BC. The Arenes de Lutece (Lutetia Arena) once held at least fifteen thousand spectators and considerably fewer gladiators. It was built in the First Century AD and included the longest Roman amphitheater. The 135 foot (over 40 meter) long stage hosted both plays and gladiator fights. There were probably animal cages as well, surely not for the plays. The upper level held the poor, the slaves, and women while the lower level was reserved for the big shots. Just in case the spectators got bored they did have a great view of the Seine River.

The city was sacked by barbarians in the year 280 and some of its stone was removed to build up the defenses. The arena was subsequently transformed into a cemetery, and then filled with the construction of city walls in the early Thirteenth Century. The arena was more or less forgotten; nobody knew where it was but neighborhood kept its name. The arena was accidentally rediscovered in the 1860s during the construction of a streetcar depot on the site. The famous Nineteenth Century writer Victor Hugo played a major role in preserving these ruins. The area became a public square in 1896 and is open to the public daily and evenings in the summer.

The Institut du Monde Arabe (Arab World Institute) was established in 1980 by eighteen Arab countries and France. This Institute provides extensive information about the Arab world and promotes its cultural and spiritual values. The Institute also supports cooperation and cultural exchanges between France and the Arab world, especially in science and technology. In 1989 it won the Aga Khan Award for Architecture.

The Jardin des Plantes is France's main botanical garden. It includes an aquarium, and a small zoo founded with animals from the royal menagerie at Versailles (not the two-legged variety). Its gardens include a rose garden, an alpine garden, an Art Deco winter garden, Australian and Mexican hothouses, and a maze.

The Museum National d'Histoire Naturelle (National Museum of Natural History) was founded during the French Revolution. It was quite a center of scientific research. One of the winners of the 1903 Nobel Prize for Physics, Henri Becquerel, held its chair for Applied Physics when he accidentally discovered uranium's radioactivity. Four generations of Becquerels held this chair from 1838 until 1948, which must be some sort of record.

The Musee de Cluny, officially known as Musee National du Moyen Age (National Museum of the Middle Ages) is perhaps the most outstanding medieval building in Paris. It was the town house of the Abbots of Cluny, dating back to 1334 but was rebuilt in both Gothic and Renaissance style starting near the end of the Fifteenth Century. The Musee de Cluny has a fine collection of important medieval artifacts, in particular tapestries, Gothic sculptures, and illuminated manuscripts. Herman Melville mentioned this museum in his famous novel Moby Dick.

The Thermes de Cluny are what remains of Third Century Gallo-Roman baths. Its best-preserved section is the frigidarium, the cold-water pool in which bathers dipped to close their pores after enjoyed the hot-water sections. Some of the original decorative wall painting and mosaics remain intact. These baths were poorly defended and probably destroyed by barbarians, those dirty barbarians, towards the end of the Third Century.

The Pantheon (from a Greek word meaning all the Gods) was originally built as a church dedicated to St. Genevieve, the patron saint of Paris. It sits on top of Montagne Sainte-Genevieve and overlooks all Paris. While this is a great-looking building the architect died before its completion, and not all his plans were followed. The building was intended to be a church in honor of King Louis XV's recovery, but the French Revolution intervened and the Pantheon was transformed into a mausoleum. In alphabetical order, some of the great buried here include Braille, Dumas, Hugo, Marat (French Revolution leader disinterred after little more than a year), Moulin (French Resistance leader), Sklodowska-Curie, Soufflot (Pantheon's architect), Voltaire, and Zola.

The Latin Quarter is home to many universities and other centers of higher education, and naturally scads of bars, bistros, restaurants, and nightclubs. Some schools have relocated to more spacious quarters in other parts of the city or region, surely to the regret of their student population.

Of course, you don't want to tour Paris without sampling fine French wine and food. You can start with Pate en Croute de Grenouilles au Bleu de Bresse (Frog and Bresse Blue-Cheese Pie). For your second course savor Poulet de Bresse a la Creme-Trompettes de la Mort (Free-Range Bresse Chicken in Creamy Sauce with Horns of Plenty Mushrooms). And as dessert indulge yourself with Ile Flottante (Floating Island, a Meringue Island in a Custard Sea.) Your Parisian sommelier (wine steward) will be happy to suggest appropriate wines to accompany each course.