| Kerala കേരളം | |||
| God's Own Country | |||
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| Country |  India | ||
| Region | South India | ||
| District(s) | 14 | ||
| Established | 1 November 1956 | ||
| Capital | Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum) | ||
| Largest city | Thiruvananthapuram | ||
| Governor | R.S. Gavai | ||
| Chief Minister | V.S. Achuthanandan | ||
| Legislature (seats) | Unicameral (141‡) | ||
| Population • Density | 31,948,619 (12th) (2001[update]) • 819 /km2 (2,121 /sq mi) | ||
| Literacy | 91[1]% | ||
| Language(s) | Malayalam | ||
| Time zone | IST (UTC+5:30) | ||
| Area | 38,863 km² (15,005 sq mi) | ||
| ISO 3166-2 | IN-KL | ||
 Portal: Kerala | |||
| | Website:kerala.gov.in | ||
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Kerala
Kerala (Malayalam: കേരളം?; Kēraḷaṁ) is a state located in southwestern India. Neighbouring states include Karnataka to the north and Tamil Nadu to the south and east; to the west is the Arabian Sea. Besides the state's administrative capital Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum), the other major cities in Kerala are Kochi (Cochin), Kozhikode (Calicut), Kannur (Cannanore), Thrissur (Trichur), and Kollam (Quilon). Kochi is the economic/commercial capital, Kannur is the political capital and Thrissur is the cultural capital of Kerala. The principal spoken language is Malayalam. A 3rd-century-BC rock inscription by emperor Asoka the Great attests to a Keralaputra. Around 1 BC the region was ruled by the Chera Dynasty, which traded with the Greeks, Romans, and Arabs. In the 1st century AD Jewish immigrants arrived, and it is believed that St. Thomas the Apostle visited Kerala in the same century.[2] Feudal Namboothiri Brahmin and Nair city-states subsequently gained control of the region.[3] Early contact with Europeans gave way to struggles between colonial and native interests. On 1 November 1956 the States Reorganisation Act elevated Kerala to statehood.
The state is known for achievements such as near 100% literacy rate,[1] among the highest in India. A survey conducted in 2005 by Transparency International ranked Kerala as the least corrupt state in the country.[4] Kerala is uniquely dependent on remittances from a large Malayali expatriate community based mainly in Persian Gulf countries.
Kerala Fairs and Festivals
The colorful mosaic of Kerala fairs and festivals is as diverse as the land, is an expression of the spirit of celebration, that is an essential part of the State. Observed with enthusiasm and gaiety, festivals are like gems, ornamenting the crown of Kerala tradition and culture. Round the year the fests keep Kerala life vibrant and interludes in the mundane affairs of life.
Every season turns up new festivals, each a true celebration of the bounties of nature. The festivals exhibits an eternal harmony of spirit. Packed with fun and excitement, festivals are occasions to clean and decorate houses, to get together with friends and relatives and to exchange gifts.
New attire, dance, music and ritual, all add to their joyful rhythm. It is a time for prayer, for pageantry and processions and time to rejoice. The important fairs and festivals in the state are:
Onam Festival - The 10 day Onam festival is kerala's most important festival, honouring King Mahabali, a mythological king of ancient Kerala, whose period was reckoned as the golden age in the history of the state. He was the embodiment of virtues, goodness, so was his regime which was marked by equality and harmony among people.
Thrissur Pooram - The most spectacular spectacle in the state. This festival was introduced by Sakthan Thampuran, the Maharaja of erstwhile Kochi state. Celebrated in Medom (April-May) the festival parades the fulgent faces of Kerala culture. With every passing year Tthrissur Pooram, the temple festival, attracts large masses of devotees and spectators.
Aranmula Uthrittathi - The famous snake boat carnival on the Pampa, held annually at Aranmula on the day of Uthrittathi asterism, in connection with the Onam festival is to commemorate the crossing of the river by Lord Krishna on that day. The deity is supposed to be in all the boats that take part in the carnival and all of them are expected to arrive a t their destination simultaneously.
Easter is the oldest Christian festival, as old as Christianity itself. The central tenet of Christianity is not the birth of Jesus, but his resurrection. Easter is derived from this paschal mystery and from the events of Good Friday.
Thiruvathira Festival - The festival falls on the asterism Thiruvathira in the Malayalam month of Dhanu (December-January). On thiruvathira morning, devotees throng Shiva temples for an early worship which is reckoned as highly auspicious.
Tradition says thiruvathira is celebrating the death of Kamadeva, the mythological God of Love. According to another version, Thiruvathira is the birthday of Lord Shiva. The festival has similarities to adra darshan celebrated in Tamil Nadu.
Idul-Fitr, of late known by the misnomer 'Ramadan' is one of the two festivals of Islam. Ramadan is the ninth month of the lunar year. During this month the Muslims observe fast, giving up all kinds of food and drink during day time, and spend the major part of the night in devotion and prayer.
Makaravillakku at Sabarimala - For centuries, Sabarimala in Pathanamthitta has been a major pilgrim centre attracting lakhs of devotees from all over India, more so from southern States. The presiding deity is Lord Ayyappa known as Dharma Sastha, a considered symbol of unity between Vaishnavites and Saivites. Darma Sastha is believed to have fulfilled his mission in life and rejoined his Supreme Self, enshrined at Sabarimala.
Vishu- The Malayalam new year is celebrated by bursting crackers and going to temple.
Travel Tips
A well-planned trip is not only blissful but lingers fresh in the memory for a long time. One obviously would love a hassle-free holiday, as it is meant for rest and enjoyment and above all to escape from the daily ordeal of life. If on a holiday too, one finds oneself running from pillar to post and making last-minute arrangements, one would love to forget the holiday and the horrifying memories associated with it. India is a tough country, in terms of temperament and terrain. Before venturing on a sojourn to India, one needs to follow some simple guidelines to make the stay a pleasant one. Follow the tips in earnest and put your best foot forth and come to India with a desire, and India promises that you will leave the land with an ardent wish to come back again.
DO'S AND DON'TS
Mind Your Language: In communicating verbal instructions, it is vital that you not only insist on the recipient repeating them but also see from his face that he actually understands the meaning of the words. Indian ears are more attuned to the slurred vowels of English than to the nasal's drawl of an American.
Permission for Photography: To avoid causing neurosis when you photograph railway property it is advisable to take permission (if you have not done so at home) from Indian Railways headquarters in New Delhi. Rail Bhawan looks very formidable but the entry procedure is remarkably simple. You sign the visitor's book at the reception and ask to see the Public Relations Officer.
Beware: Two unpleasant brutalities need to be summoned up to make it clear that you are not a soft touch. Never respond to the genial 'hello' of a conman and never catch the eye of professional beggar.
Bargaining: Haggling is an exhausting exercise for the greenhorn to India, a delectable sport for the shopkeeper who stands to make a huge killing. Remember that the first sale of the day is considered religiously auspicious, so the chances of being ripped off are somewhat less. The rule for buyers is to start at less than half of the announced price and then work towards a settlement at a price neither party considers unreasonable. Short-term visitors who lack the sporting instinct will find it much easier to stick to government emporia where the prices are fixed.
MIND THE NOISE: Loudspeakers are a status symbol in India and what seems like the blare of a screeching siren may only be a devotional song sung by a national legend. Film songs are basic to Indian life and their influence is more pervasive than pop. Make a practice of asking people the words and you will discover the words and you will discover an innocent world of romance and poetry totally at variance with the level of noise.
BEWARE OF DOGS: Give all dogs that cross your path a wide berth. Only make friends if you have to. If this sounds mean, remember the alternative may be two weeks of painful injections in a hospital that seems more frightening than the dog.
COMPLAINTS: Always register a suggestion or complaint. In India, the complaint book is available everywhere and people do respond to suggestions. Avoid the unfortunate habit of only criticizing. Sometimes take the trouble to write to the editor of a newspaper praising India. You will be surprised how many other people share your feelings. Practical hints should be penned to the publishers of guidebooks. Share travel experience and you can pick up valuable hints.
SAVE BILLS, TICKETS, RECEIPTS, ETC.: If you save all the bills, tickets, receipts and miscellaneous vouchers accumulated on a tour, these will in later years bring back more vividly the memories you will cherish. Keep an envelope aside for this travel flotsam and consider nothing too menial for inclusion. If you want to be really efficient, then date the additions as they swell your collection. A lot of lingering pleasure can be found by this simple discipline of not throwing away your travel trash.
Vagamon Hill
Kerala also known as 'God's own country' is the home to some of the most beautiful hill stations in the world. Waynad, Munnar, Vythiri, Idduki and Ponmudi are just some of the beautiful hill stations in Kerala. Located at a high altitude , Vagamon Hill,is one of the most beautiful hill stations in Kerala is engulfed by three hills.
It is from here one can see the green grass covering the hills and the smooth lawns like silk carpets with the fresh mountain air - make Vagamon Hill the most sort after tourist destination. Beautiful flowers, bluish brown hills, cotton mist, meadows, breathtaking view all of it can be enjoyed in the enchanting land of Vagamon Hill.
Reaching Vagamon Hills-Kerala, is quite an interesting journey. Vagamon Hill are closely connected through all major road, air and railways. One can also drive up to this hill station and enjoy the scenic view en-route. As you enjoy the view you realize how generous mother nature has been to Vagamon Hill. The scenic beauty will not let you realize the time taken for the journey and before you know Vagamon Hill in Kerala comes into view.
Once the guests reach this hill station in Kerala, finding an accommodation in Vagamon Hills is not that difficult. From star rated hotels, to budget hotels, they are all well equipped with modern facilities for the traveller. The Ananya Hill Resort is one such place. A homely ambiance, attractive décor, excellent service, Ananya Hill Resorts is one of the finest resorts in Vagamon Hill. The traveler is treated royally with a touch of the local flavour.
There is lots for a tourist to indulge himself in when in Vagamon Hill. Adventure enthusiasts can enjoy trekking on the mountains, para gliding and rock climbing. Have fun on the boat ride on the lakes or one can sit on the banks or hours and watch the sun go down. If lucky the tourists may spot wild animals like the elephants, wild buffalos and deer.
Vagamon Hill offers a good vacation time for the leisure traveler and the adventure spirited. It is the beautiful valleys, the waterfalls and green slopes with flowers all around that can leave the traveller enthralled, an experience he will carry home with him.
Location of Vagamon in Kerala:
Palakkad
Palakkad also known as Palghat lies on the foothills of the Western Ghats. On the border of Kerala and Tamil Nadu, Palakkad is 80 km towards northeast of Trichur and 50 km towards southwest of Coimbatore. Palakkad district is called "the Granary of Kerala". Palakkad attracts a lots of tourists every year because richness of the natural beauty of the dense forests, fertile valleys, huge mountains, long rivers, several streams and diverse flora and fauna.
There are several tourist attractions at Palakkad to keep tourists busy during their stay at the hill station. The Palakkad Fort, situated in the heart of Palakkad town, is built of granite and one of the best-preserved forts in Kerala. Hyder Ali of Mysore in built the fort in 1766 AD. The British took over the fort and modified and renovated it in 1790 AD. The fort is now the property of the Archaeological Survey of India.
At a distance of 10 km from the town of Palakkad is Thiruvalathoor. The ancient temple is visited for fine wood craftsmanship and stone sculptures. Dhoni is 15 km from the town. It is a reserve forest area with small yet splendid waterfall and a must visit for nature lovers. The trek to the forest reserve takes 3 hours from the hill base of Dhoni. Situated 15 km from the town is Kottayi. It is a small village famous for being the native place of the master of Carnatic music, Late Chembai Vasidyanatha Bhagavathar.
Malampuzha Garden is at a convenient distance of 10 km from Palakkad on the lower hills of the Western Ghats. It is the most frequented picnic spot complete in beauty with a dam, manicured gardens, fountains, pools and pathways. Frequent bus services ply between Palakkad and Malampuzha Garden. The Rose Garden has more than a hundred varieties of roses making a very vibrant scenario. There is an aerial ropeway across the garden. The dams and gardens are illuminated on Saturdays, Sundays and national holidays. The reservoir features the facilities like boating and fishing. You can complete tour picnic outing with the ride in the pedal boats, rowboats, water scooters and motorboats or by taking a plunge into the well-kept swimming pool. A fresh water aquarium, a snake park and a children's park are the added feature of the Malampuzha Garden.
Idukki
Idukki, the beautiful hill station of Kerala derives its name from a Malayalam word 'idukku', which means narrow gorge. Idukki is known as the land of massive mountains, variegated valleys and splendid streams. Located in the southern portion of Kerala, Idukki offers diverse tourist attractions like hill ranges, mountain treks, spice plantations, virgin beauty of nature and wild life sanctuaries.
The Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary is the prime attraction of the hill town of Idukki. It is spread over an area of 70 sq km in the vicinity of the Arched Dam. The Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary is rich in green forest cover and vibrant flora and fauna. Tourist may easily spot animals like the elephant, bison, sambhar, deer etc. you may also find a wide variety of snakes and birds like the jungle foul, laughing thrush etc.
Very near to the hill station of Idukki, is another hill station called Peermade. Peermade was summer resort of the former Tranvancore rulers. Peermade is worthy of visit for its green grasslands, wonderful waterfalls and pleasant plantations of tea, coffee and rubber.
Thekkady is at a distance of almost 65 km from Idukki. The place is visited for unspoilt beauty of the nature and vast wildlife population. Thekkady is famous for the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary where you can find the artificial lakes, hills and plantations along with the fauna and avifauna. Trekking, elephant rides and boating can be indulged in while at Thekkady.
From Idukki, you may also visit the hill station of Munnar, which is at a distance of 70 km. The place has the beauty enhanced by the tea plantations, nice town planning, winding lanes and perfect climatic conditions.
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