Natures bounty

Take a trip down unexplored Kerala, from getting an ayurvedic massage at Varkala to a boat safari at Periyar.



NATURE really is the best artist in Kerala. On a recent luxury holiday with a friend, this states beautiful panorama captivated me.

First came Varkala, along the southern coast. Here we received blissful massages at a beach resort, while taking in the dramatic views of laterite cliffs and blue- seas fringed with palms. From there we moved onto the verdant Thekkady, encountering unseasonal rains, more shades of green than I have ever seen, and mist rolling into our room. The downside was that the animals hid out in the jungle during our boat safari at the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, so we only spotted the occasional elephant, sambhar, buffalo, and wild boar. But the lush surrounds, the birds galore and the chilly hill- station feel more than made up for our lack of tiger sightings.

Kumarakom was next, and words dont do justice to the experience. We stayed one night on a houseboat or a kettuvallom; a wooden construction with a thatched roof and an upper deck that is perfect for a meal under the stars (and/ or sunbathing!). The boat made its way gently around the still, mirror- like blue waters of the Vembanad Lake.

Along the shoreline we saw whitewashed churches and quaint villages. When the rains set in, turning the day wet and grey, the gloom just seemed to enhance our spectacular surroundings. Then came night, with its sounds of night- birds and a chorus of crickets. To the east we saw an almost full moon high in the star- studded heavens; far in the distance, brilliant bolts of lightning, and then, slowly, the flickering lanterns of the fishing boats coming on.

A magical display of nature – of sun, moon, stars, heaven, earth, water and fire playing all the lead roles. We did not take the weather with us to Cochin, our last destination ( although the sky did have an ominous hue to it), or we might have missed another Kerala postcard view – the Chinese fishing nets set alight by the flaming sky at sunset. Our sunset cruise along the backwaters ensured us of a perfect photo- op, as did our strategically located hotel on Willington Harbour.

In Cochin, I actually did the touristy bit ( while my friend opted to lounge by the pool). A visit to the historical sites in Mattencherry and Fort Kochi ensued, followed by a visit to the Jewish Quarters and the synagogue. Not far from there lay yet another treat for me – the much famed Jewish flea market. I love rummaging through antique stores and flea markets and when I chance upon a find, especially in a decrepit, out- of- theway antique store, Im thrilled.

The figurines of Indian gods, miniature gilded paintings of Jesus and the apostles, well- worn wooden household objects, hand- painted tiles, glass lanterns, 4- poster beds even… there was enough to keep me pottering around for hours despite the mid- day heat. Thankfully I was scheduled for yet another massage and an Ayurvedic facial ( I take my pampering very seriously) – else who knows what I would’ve lugged back home?

Top seven places to visit in India

India is a mix of cultures, traditions, languages and this is what gives a unique picture to the country. Rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan, the enchanting backwaters of Kerala and the beauty of the Himalayas make India a worthy tourist destination..

INDIA IS a vast country and there are several places of tourist interests that can be explored for a delightful and enchanting experience. Travel and tourism in the country provides a delightful experience with a superb blend of culture, tradition, spirituality, natural beauty and modernisation.

In fact, the county is the land of amazing diversity and its diversity can be observed in all its realms. There are several enchanting travel destination in the country like Goa, Kerala, Rajasthan, Mumbai, Golden Triangle, Taj Mahal (Agra), Delhi, Himalayan Region, Kashmir, Backwaters, Wildlife, etc. Exploring these globally acclaimed destinations of the country provides delightful experience of India tourism. Below is information about seven topmost travel destinations of the country. Often tourists plan to visit these destinations in India.

Taj Mahal: India’s star attraction

Taj Mahal is considered as one of the seven wonders of the world. It is located on the banks of River Yamuna in Agra, Uttar Pradesh. Built in white marble, it is one of the most beautiful monuments in the world. It is the symbol of eternal love. This beautiful monument of love was built by great Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in the loving memory of his beloved wife Rani Mumtaz Mahal after her death. It is one of the must visit attractions of the country. Every year, a large gathering of tourists visit this exquisite love monument and do not forget to praise its architecture, beauty and of course to imagine the beauty of Mumtaz Mahal. Worth visiting!

Rajasthan: The land of forts and kings

Rajasthan is a widely acclaimed travel destination of India. It has a wide range of tourist options like heritage tourism, cultural tourism, wildlife tourism, camel safari of rippling sand dunes, etc. There are several magnificent forts and palaces in this state, showing the glorious past of its erstwhile rulers and kings. Some of forts and palaces of the state have now been converted into heritage hotels offering world class accommodation with luxury and unique Indian hospitality. Staying a few days at Rajasthan palace hotels is truly a delightful experience.

Kerala: God’s own country

Kerala is one of the most beautiful states of India. It is globally famous travel destination blessed with exceptional natural beauty. Beautiful beaches, breathtaking backwaters, luxurious houseboats, beautiful temples, verdant hill stations, beautiful landscapes, rich culture and tradition, exotic cuisine, etc are prime attractions of Kerala. Definitely exploring Kerala is an ecstatic experience.

Himalayan regions

Himalayan regions are very popular amongst tourists who like to enjoy adventure and sports, explore the beautiful landscapes, explore rich flora and fauna, and explore pilgrimage centres. This region covers the states of Kashmir (the paradise on the earth), Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh. Exploring the Himalayan region Kashmir provides one of the best Indian tour experiences. Himalayan regions also provide opportunity to indulge in thrilling adventure and sports. Also you can visit several religious and pilgrimage sites like Vaishno Devi Temple in Jammu, Buddhist monasteries in Ladakh and several ancient temples in Kullu and Manali. These religious spots are very popular destinations for India pilgrimage tour.

Goa: The land of sun, sand and surf
Goa is the smallest state of India but is extremely popular destination for international tourists. Beaches, Churches, culture, etc are prime attractions of Goa tours.

Khajuraho: The city of exotic temples

Khajuraho is a well-known travel destination of India. It is widely acclaimed for its beautiful architectural temples of love. You can see several beautifully engraved sculptures on the walls of the temples. The perfect balance between architecture and sculpture surely enchants you.

New Delhi: The capital of India

New Delhi, the capital of India is one of the major tourist destinations of the country. There are numerous attractions in this historic city like Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Chandni Chowk, Qutub Minar, India Gate, Humayun’s Tomb, Lotus Temple, Akshardham Temple, Rajghat, Birla Temple, ISKON temple, President’s House, Old Fort and many more.