Showing posts with label Kerala tour packages. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Kerala tour packages. Show all posts

Thursday, December 9, 2010

Planning to holiday in Kerala? It's almost houseful

Tourists hoping to usher in the New Year amid Kerala's laidback charms would do well to have a plan B ready - if they haven't booked already. Most hotels, resorts and even houseboats are sold out for Christmas, and only divine intervention can get you a place in 'god's own country'.

As a result of the holiday rush, tariffs have touched stratospheric levels. Plush resorts in the backwater havens of Alappuzha and Kumarakom are charging upwards of Rs.75,000 a night for the New Year eve.

Likewise, travel agents too are running from pillar to post to get reservations for their clients at premier destinations like Kovalam, Kumarakom, Alappuzha, Thekkady and Munnar.

Tomy Pulikattil, who owns a dozen houseboats in Alappuzha, said anyone who manages to book a houseboat now should consider himself extremely lucky.

"We are finding it hard to accommodate people who have not made a booking. The peak season would begin from Dec 20 and continue till the first week of January. We are fully booked and now people are calling us daily to see if there have been any cancellations," Pulikattil told IANS.

Alappuzha, popularly known as the Venice of the East, has the largest concentration of houseboats, numbering more than 400.

Tariff for the peak season has gone up by 25 percent. A two bedroom houseboat would cost you about Rs.20,000 a day.

Tourism has become one of the biggest money spinners in industry-starved Kerala. The tourism department says both foreign and domestic tourist arrivals for the first half of this year have shown a rise.

Around 335,000 overseas tourists arrived here till June 2010, a rise of 13.9 percent over the corresponding period last year. Domestic tourist arrivals too grew by 5.59 percent to reach 4.1 million.

No wonder hotel and resort owners are in a festive mood.

"All our rooms have been fully booked for the second half of this month and so is the case with resorts in and around Kovalam. Unlike in the previous season, this time we feel that there are more domestic tourists," said K. Sudish Kumar, who owns a premier resort at Kovalam beach.

"Moreover, we hope the rains lashing the state halt briefly so that tourists can enjoy the beaches."

However, tour guide Koshy John sounded a word of caution, saying the lingering effects of economic slowdown were still visible.

"The free flow of foreign tourists that was visible from the end of November last year has not happened this time. But I am told that foreign tourists' January bookings look healthy," he said.

"On its part, the state government also should promote newer destinations because the premier destinations are choked during the holiday season."

Monday, August 2, 2010

Great Places That You Have To Visit In India

India’s tourism industry is booming with new opportunities due to government support. Every year millions of national and international travelers tour India to see its culture heritage, natural beauty and wildlife reserve. However, since India is a very vast country, planning what to see on a tour to India can be a really daunting task especially if you have to choose destinations between the South, North, East or West of India. Whether on a spiritual quest, a cultural visit or a relaxing holiday, it is advisable that you plan your India tour in such a way that you are easily able to cover a few important destinations of a particular region.

India can be divided into four regions i.e. North, South, East and West and each one of these four regions nurture cultures that are unique only to them. Moreover, these regions are also different from each other with respect to people, architecture, food, and languages spoken. Though, it will not be impossible for you to cover popular tourist destinations like Rajasthan, Kerala, Goa and the Golden Triangle in a single trip, try to avoid it as it may lead to exhaustion. Select a single region and travel across it. Ask your tour organizer to pack in as many top destinations as possible across a particular region in your India tour package.

Here are some of the best places to visit in India according to the four regions of the country.

The North
The northern states of Rajasthan, Delhi and Uttar Pradesh together form the Golden Triangle with its three cities Jaipur, Delhi and Agra. These are the most famous destinations of North India Tour.

The state of J&K has places like Leh & Ladakh which are famous for their high mountain peaks which can be compared with no other place in the World. Due to its unusual terrain and barren landscape it is sometimes referred to as “Moonland”.

Uttaranchal or Uttrakhand is a newly formed state of North India. It is blessed with natural beauty and picturesque landscapes and boasts of some untouched and un-spoilt natural places. It is a perfect place for wildlife lover as it homes various wildlife reserves and natural parks. Some of the best tourist attractions here are: Nainital, Ranikhet, Binsar, Mussoorie and the Valley of Flowers.

The Heart of India is Madhya Pradesh, and the hearth of Madhya Pradesh is Khajuraho. These ancient temples are an example of rich cultural heritage of India. Additionally, visit destinations like Orchha, Pachmarhi and Satpura, in the city of Gwalior to witness some of the finest monuments and natural beauty of the country.

The West
Maharashtra is home to India’s commercial capital, Mumbai (Bombay). Here you will find several amazing tourist destinations. You must also visit Mahabaleshwar, Lonavala and Khandala (quite near to Mumbai) during a West India Tour for their pristine beauty.

The state of Goa in Maharashtra is known for its carnivals and lush tropical beaches. Don’t miss it.

The East
Eastern India is well known for the Sun Temple, tea estates, Buddhist monasteries and tribal cultures. It consists of the beautiful “seven sisters” i.e. Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, Tripura, Mizoram and Manipur. All these seven states of India are extremely beautiful places to be holidaying in India. Don’t forget to visit Shilong and Cherrapunji, in Meghalaya, during your East India Tour.

The South
Kerala is also known as the “Gods Own Country” and is one of the prime tourist destinations of South India Tours. It is a perfect destination for holidays, honeymoon, art, culture, tradition, health care, yoga, Ayurveda and meditation. Kerala is famous for its natural beauty, amazing beaches, delicious sea food and backwaters. Visit beautiful places like Munnar, Periyar and Kovalam while you are in Kerala.

Tamil Nadu has the famous hill station named Ooty. It is one of the famous hill stations of southern India and is popularly referred to as “Queen of Hills”. Also take a trip to Kodaikanal and Coimbatore to see scenic natural beauty.

The state of Karnataka in South India has wonderful tourist destinations Coorg and BR Hills. Coorg is a place that is believed to haunt you forever with its timeless beauty. It is also described as the Scotland of India.

Best Places in India to Beat the Summer Heat

India is a globally famous tourist destination. It appeals tourists from all over the world for fascinating India tours with lots of attractions like historical monuments, forts & palaces, heritage monuments, nature sites, exotic wildlife, hill stations, breathtaking beaches, pilgrimage sites, religious spots, historic cities and many more.

When coming on India tours during summer, it is especially considerable to choose a right destination to escape the scorching summer heat. There are many destinations which can be visited during summer. If you are coming in India during summer seasons, it is advisable that you should choose any of Indian hill stations to celebrate your vacation and enjoying tourism. Each part of this country has some of picturesque hill stations very popular among tourists and vacationers from all over the world due to their cool & cheerful climate.

In this article, we are putting short information about the top 5 places to visit in India to beat the heat of summer.

01. Manali: Situated in the beautiful state of Himachal Pradesh, Manali is nestled in the lower Himalayas. It is a picturesque hill station and ancient town surrounded by snow-clad mountain peaks of majestic Himalayas. The city offers panoramic vista of Himalayan peaks covered with milky white snows. The city has an affluent orchard industry (especially apple orchards) creating soothing climate for vacationers and tourists. It is also a very popular destination of honeymooning couples or new wed couples with scenic, cool, cheerful and truly romantic ambiance. It is also favorite destination of adventure enthusiasts like campers, trekkers, etc.

Availability of a wide range of adventure & sport activities in and around the city attracts a big crowd of tourists and vacationers from all over the world. Rohtang Pass and Solang Valley offer some panoramic vista of snowline of Himalayas and provide opportunity to enjoy adventure & winter sport activities like river rafting, mountaineering, trekking, parasailing, skiing, heli-skiing, ice-skating, etc. Indeed, Manali is one of the best places to visit in India especially during the summer. The charm of magnetic Manali also can be enjoyed in winter season.

02. Ooty: Sometimes also known as the “Queen of the Hill Stations of South India”, Ooty is one of the best places to visit to India especially during the summer. It is an excellent destination to escape the summer heat. Scenic landscapes, lovely lakes, gorgeous gardens, lush tea plantations, rich flora & fauna, etc make this hill town a favorite destination of India in summer. It is also a favored destination for honeymooning vacation.

03. Gulmarg: Situated in the picturesque Kashmir valley, Gulmarg is a valley retreat and popular hill station in the state of Jammu & Kashmir. It is basically a large meadow. Gulmarg also literally means “the Meadow of Flowers”. Rolling meadow filled with numerous colorful flowers like Daisies, Bluebells and Buttercups is the attractions of Gulmarg visit. It is also a very popular destination of adventure enthusiasts and honeymooners as well. The beautiful hill & valley town of Gulmarg offers picturesque and spectacular sight of snow-covered mountain peaks of majestic Himalayas. I think it a best place to visit in India offering opportunity to sightseeing, nature tourism, adventure tourism and right ambiance for honeymooning vacation.

04. Munnar: Munnar is a picturesque hill station situated in the south Indian state of Kerala, God’s Own Country. It is especially famous for plantations of tea, coffee, spice and rubber. The fragrance of tea and spice plantations enthralls tourists from all over the world. It is a very ideal place to visit in south India especially the summer season.

05. Nainital: It is one of the most charming & captivating hill stations with many lovely lakes. It is often described as the “Lake Paradise”. In ancient times, the city was called the city of 60 lakes. With many lovely lakes, scenic surroundings, picturesque landscapes and cool & cheerful climate it is one of the most important places to see in India especially during the summer. The Nani Lake is the most famous lake in the town. Yachting, boating and paddling can be enjoyed on lovely lakes of Nainital.

If you are coming to visit India in other seasons, Taj Mahal tours and cultural tours of south India can be fascinating options. I will reveal more in my next article on other destinations of India which can be visited on all seasons.

Thursday, July 22, 2010

What about Honeymoon Tour to Kerala to Spend Your Romantic Vacations

Preparation of wedding is one of the most important parts of wedding if you are getting married. One another important part of wedding is choosing the right destination for your romantic honeymoon vacation. You need to consider where you will go to spend a romantic destination with your loved one. The choice of right destination should be planned in advance to make it memorable event of life that you are your beloved can be proud of all of your life. You should remember that honeymoon opportunity comes in your life once. So it should be unforgettable. Certainly you can go on second and third honeymoon but the charm of first honeymoon is incomparable. So the choice of destination for your first honeymoon should be carefully to make it an unforgettable one.

Confused about your honeymooning destination? What about Kerala in India? Certainly honeymoon in Kerala (also known as God’s Own Country) will be a unique lifetime experience. There are numerous options available in this beautiful Indian state to make your romantic vacation an unforgettable one. Honeymoon celebration in Kerala let tourists a wonderful opportunity to indulge in many fun and romantic activities to make this even a memorable one. There are a number of exotic places which are popular among couples coming from different parts of the world. Beaches, backwaters, lakes, houseboats, hill stations, wildlife sanctuaries & parks, historical monuments, spice plantations, lush greenery, etc are to set a truly amiable and romantic ambiance for just unforgettable honeymoon. You will cherish attraction of Kerala on high level on your honeymoon tour to Kerala, India.

There are many beautiful beaches in this charming and captivating Indian state of Kerala. You will love to spend your holidays on breathtakingly beautiful and palm-fringed beaches of this state. Kovalam, Varkala, Alleppey, Fort Kochi, Mararikulam, Beypore, Poovar, etc are some of famous beaches in this state where you will love spend your romantic vacations. On your Kerala honeymoon tour you will have a wonderful opportunity to explore these beautiful beaches.

Besides beaches, there are backwaters in this state which can add special charm to your vacations. And your spouse will certainly feel proud of your choice for choosing Kerala as destinations. Alleppey, Kumarakom, Kollam, Kozhikode, etc are famous backwater destinations in this state where you will love to go to spend your vacations. And you will enjoy best of backwater honeymoon vacations in Kerala by spending your memorable moments on luxury houseboat. A houseboat cruise over backwaters will set a truly romantic ambiance for your vacations after marriage.

There are many picturesque hill stations in this state which you will also love to explore on your honeymoon in Kerala. Munnar, Peremede, Ponmudi, Wayanad, Echo Point, etc are some of famous hill stations in Kerala known for exceptional national beauty. There are many other attractions and opportunity to indulge in fun activities in this state. So, choose Kerala as your honeymoon destination and make this event an unforgettable one.

Thursday, December 17, 2009

Seven Famous Places To Visit In India

India is a globally famous tourism destination. There are several famous travel destinations in the country which deserve the attentions of tourists and travellers from all over the world. Known for its rich culture and traditions with numerous catchy attractions the country of India never fails to grab the heart of tourists and travellers. Here is brief description about top seven famous places to visit in India which you will surly love to explore on your India tours.

Rajasthan: It is the largest state of India. It is one of globally famous travel destinations of India. The royal state of Rajasthan is known for its rich culture and tradition. It can be perfect destination for those tourists who want to explore rich cultural heritage of India. Magnificent forts, elegant palaces, terrific temples, frescoed havelis, wildlife parks & sanctuaries, hills, lakes, desert, sand dunes, cuisine, fairs & festivals, etc are prime attractions of a visit to this historic state of India. Rajasthan has a great place among famous Indian tourist places. You should not miss to explore it during travel to India.

Kerala: It is one of the most charming and captivating states of India. It is fondly known as the God's Own Country. It is known for its breathtaking beaches, beautiful backwaters, verdant hill stations, and superb natural beauty. Nature has blessed Kerala perhaps with all her treasures. Kerala can be perfect destinations for honeymooners or those couples who are in love. Ayurvedic & spa resorts, monsoon tourism, and medical tourism also deserve the attention of tourist to visit Kerala, India.

Kashmir: It is perhaps the most beautiful place to visit in India. Beautiful gardens, lovely lakes, valley of flowers, verdant valleys & hills, etc team up together and create truly delightful and romantic ambiance. Thats why honeymooners from all over the world prefer to celebrate their honeymoon vacation in Kashmir. Kashmir is popularly described as the Paradise on the Earth. Kashmir is also known for some of famous pilgrimage sites like Amarnath Caves and Vaishno Devi. Ladakh in Kashmir is very famous for Budhist Monasteries and adventure & sport activities.

Himachal Pradesh: Himachal Pradesh is one of the most charming and captivating states of India appealing tourists from all over the world. It is situated in the foothills of majestic Himalayas. It is basically famous for hill tourism and adventure and sport activities. Shimla, Manali, Kullu, Dalhousie, Dharamshala, etc are some of famous hill stations of in the state. These beautiful hill towns of the state are very popular among honeymooners and tourists who are looking for adventure & sport activities on their visit to India. The state is also known for apple orchards.

Goa: Goa is a small but beautiful state of India. It is globally famous for beach tourism. It has some of finest beaches in the world. Churches, forts, palaces, temples, etc are prime attractions of Goa visit. Goa carnival lures tourists from all over the world. The ambiance at Goa beaches is truly delightful and romantic, so Goa is also famous among honeymoon couples. If you too want to explore exquisite beaches of India you should not miss to visit Goa during your trip to India.

Agra: Situated in the state of Uttar Pradesh, Agra is a world famous tourist destination in India. It is home to world famous Taj Mahal Indias star attraction. Agra has great place among famous places to visit in India. It has several catchy attractions to offer its visitors. Red Fort, Jama Masjid, India Gate, Old Fort, Humayuns Tomb, Raj Ghat, Qutub Minar, President House, Parliament House, Connought Place, etc are prime attractions of Delhi visit. Delhi is also known as gateway destination to visit some of famous north Indian tourist places.

I hope this article will help you to planning your India tours and explore its famous places and travel destinations.

Wednesday, December 2, 2009

India Tour - A Journey To Uncultivated India

India a sanctuary of tourism delights, a civilization to tour through. Number of tourists visiting India is rising at an alarming rate. Tourists come to India for its wealth of sights, cultural exuberance, diversity of terrain and in search of that special something, an extra punch that only India promises and delivers. It is not wrong to say that tour to India can be organized for various purposes either for exploring natural beauty or for paying a holy visit to various pilgrimage centers, etc.

If you really want to discover the captivating splendor of India tourism, then places like Taj Mahal, Ajanta and Ellora Caves, Forts and Palaces of Rajasthan, Kerala are the best choices. Similarly, sacred destinations like Golden Temple, Konark temple, Khajuraho etc are the most sought after destinations for those tourists who want to make a holy visit in India.

India tourism is not classified to pilgrimage centre or heritage sites, even the animal lovers can have a whale of the time while roving around the famous Kaziranga, Jim Corbett, Ranthambore, etc., national parks which are real treasure of diverse flora and fauna of India. Experience & Uncover the enchanting splendor of India tourism by various tour Packages as like : heritage tours, adventure tour, wildlife tour, pilgrimage tour packages and many other tour packages.

These packages are tailor-made and can be further customized as per the needs and requirements of the tourists. Although, India is one such a destination which is visited by numerous tourists throughout the year round, yet tourists prefer visiting India during festive season of Holi, Diwali, Christmas, Christmas, etc. to get a glimpse of high-spirited celebrations made by Indian people during these colorful festivals. It is not wrong to say that by availing these tour packages, one can surely get a brief insight of the eternal Indian tourism of which it boasts for.

Friday, October 30, 2009

Tour Places in India, Rajasthan

Situated in the north western part of India, Rajasthan is the most preferred tourist destination of tourists who makes trip to India. Rajasthan the land of rajas and maharajas is the major tourists’ destination of India. The state is endowed with superb royal beauty, eye catching monuments, beautiful landscapes, exotic wildlife sanctuaries, rich culture, colourful festivals, cheerful people, etc. It has stored something for every tourists making tem enjoy their vacation in this beautiful state in a delightful and memorable way. Every year hundred and thousands of tourists, businessman, holidayers, etc break from their daily routine and break for Rajasthan holidays to explore its unmatched royal beauty and splendid attractions.

This beautiful state of India has several tourist destinations that are worth visiting and exploring while making a trip to Rajasthan. Well known places to visit in Rajasthan are Jaipur (Capital City of Rajasthan), Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Bikaner, Chittourgarh, Shekhwati region, Chittourgarh, Pushkar, Mandawa, Udaipur, etc. These places are visited throughout the year by the tourists not only from India, but gather the attention of International tourists in a large number. Touring in these cities is made easier and enjoyable by the Rajasthan car rentals service providers. They offer fleets of luxurious cars with VIP chauffeurs who will make your trip more delightful by guiding you through all these places. Exploring the beauty of these cities will truly give you everlasting experience that you will love to cherish throughout your lifetime.

Rajasthan is also famous for its exotic wildlife parks and sanctuaries that appeals tourists from tour and travels in Rajasthan. Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, Sariska Tiger Reserve, Ranthambore National Park, Desert National Park, Mount Abu Wildlife Sanctuary, etc are some of the well known parks and sanctuaries of Rajasthan. These wildlife parks are abode of varied wildlife animals and birds and even the home of the varied endangered species of the world. Every year quite in a large number tourist and wildlife lovers from all over the world come to explore the exotic flora and fauna of this beautiful state of India, Rajasthan.

Beside Rajasthan there are several other tours place in India which also appeals tourists from all over the world for tours and travels in India. Goa the beach capital of India is globally famous for its pristine beaches fringed by coconut trees, Kerala is famously known as God’s Own Country is famous for its exotic natural beauty, backwaters, hill stations, beaches, Ayurvedic Spa, mouthwatering cuisines, etc, Himachal Pradesh the Land of Apples is globally famous for its hill stations, etc. Agra is world famous for housing the Seven Wonder of the World- Taj Mahal, Jammu and Kashmir is said to be the Heaven on Earth, Uttarakhand the “Abode of Gods” is well known for its scenic beauty and adventure tourism, etc. There are several other tourist destinations in India that exotically beautiful and are worth exploring by booking the package tours to India.

India is the country of all seasons and tourists from all from all over the world keep visiting to explore its unmatched beauty that is found no where else in the world. Visit this beautiful country once and you will love to share the experience with much pride with your dear ones.

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

India tour packages

India is the highly praised tourist destination as it houses verities of tourist destinations ranging from elevated Himalayan valley, enchanting see beaches, mesmerizing Thar Desert.

INDIA IS the highly praised tourist destination as it houses varieties of tourist destinations ranging from elevated Himalayan valley, enchanting see beaches, mesmerizing Thar Desert, many significant heritage and historical destinations to rich flora and fauna in many wildlife sanctuaries in north and south Indian subcontinent. Today, a large number of tourists from each part of the world are planning to explore the vibrant and colorful destinations of India by making their India tours.

Due to the increased value of tourism in India, India tour operators have acknowledged the significance of requisite tools to cater better quality of services such as warm hospitality and customized tour packages. They offer verities of India tour packages in various locations of country as per the desire of leisure seekers. The geographical uniqueness of various parts of country and vibrant culture of different localities are the major factor that makes this country a prime location in tourism map of world.

India tour packages offer a great chance to explore many discovered and undiscovered destinations in various parts of the Indian land. Apart from sightseeing, tourist can enjoy many other adventures activities through the river rafting, trekking, biking, mountaineering and many more sports. Almost each Indian state has its uniqueness in tourism point of view. Elevated Himalayan ranges of Uttaranchal and Himachal Pradesh entice all adventure seekers where they get suitable trekking fun. It would be really a great chance for you if you will ramble in the scenic ambience of peaceful Himalayan region. Destinations such as Shimla, Manali and Chamba in Himachal Pradesh, Kumaon and Garhwal regions of Uttaranchal, Sikkim Himalayas and Darjeeling in the north east have very exciting trekking roots.

When we talk about the India tour then of-course the first thing which appears in our mind is –the wonderful world famous monument of Agra i.e. the Taj Mahal. If a tourist has not seen the Taj Mahal of Agra, India, that means he/she has read only a few page of world tourism book but not the entire book. Similarly, if you will visit to Khajuraho, then you can get opportunity to see the unique medieval erotic sculpture on the wall of temples. It keeps both the spiritual and emotional value of Indian art and design. Some other spiritual sites in northern India are- Varanasi (one of the oldest city in world and also known as city of ghats), Bodh Gaya (ideal pilgrimage site for Buddhists), Haridwar and Rishikesh. India tour packages are highly praised due to colorful and attractive charm of royal state of Rajasthan. It houses many heritage sites, fort and palace, beauty of Thar Desert and of course the cultural heritage that keeps worth for every tourist. Staying in heritage hotel of Rajasthan is really a memorable experience for any tourist. South India tour gives opportunity to explore the Kerala Backwaters, and Kerala Ayurvedic therapy, which are unique in its own.

Apart from these significant destinations, miles of coastline with outstanding beaches, tropical forests and wildlife, hundreds of spiritual and historical sites along with some World Heritage Sites and many more other cultural things make India a perfect tourist destination.

Monday, July 6, 2009

Eco Tourism

Eco-tourism is more than a catch phrase for nature loving travel and recreation. Eco-tourism is consecrated for preserving and sustaining the diversity of the world's natural and cultural environments. It accommodates and entertains visitors in a way that is minimally intrusive or destructive to the environment and sustains & supports the native cultures in the locations it is operating in. Responsibility of both travellers and service providers is the genuine meaning for eco-tourism.

Eco-tourism also endeavours to encourage and support the diversity of local economies for which the tourism-related income is important. With support from tourists, local services and producers can compete with larger, foreign companies and local families can support themselves. Besides all these, the revenue produced from tourism helps and encourages governments to fund conservation projects and training programs.

Saving the environment around you and preserving the natural luxuries and forest life, that's what eco-tourism is all about. Whether it's about a nature camp or organizing trekking trips towards the unspoilt and inaccessible regions, one should always keep in mind not to create any mishap or disturbance in the life cycle of nature.

Eco-tourism focuses on local cultures, wilderness adventures, volunteering, personal growth and learning new ways to live on our vulnerable planet. It is typically defined as travel to destinations where the flora, fauna, and cultural heritage are the primary attractions. Responsible Eco-tourism includes programs that minimize the adverse effects of traditional tourism on the natural environment, and enhance the cultural integrity of local people. Therefore, in addition to evaluating environmental and cultural factors, initiatives by hospitality providers to promote recycling, energy efficiency, water reuse, and the creation of economic opportunities for local communities are an integral part of Eco-tourism.

Historical, biological and cultural conservation, preservation, sustainable development etc. are some of the fields closely related to Eco-Tourism. Many professionals have been involved in formulating and developing eco-tourism policies. They come from the fields of Geographic Information Systems, Wildlife Management, Wildlife Photography, Marine Biology and Oceanography, National and State Park Management, Environmental Sciences, Women in Development, Historians and Archaeologists, etc.

Eco-tourism is considered the fastest growing market in the tourism industry, according to the World Tourism Organization with an annual growth rate of 5% worldwide and representing 6% of the world gross domestic product, 11.4% of all consumer spending - not a market to be taken lightly.


What is Eco-tourism?

Fundamentally, eco-tourism means making as little environmental impact as possible and helping to sustain the indigenous populace, thereby encouraging the preservation of wildlife and habitats when visiting a place. This is responsible form of tourism and tourism development, which encourages going back to natural products in every aspect of life. It is also the key to sustainable ecological development.

The International Eco-tourism Society defines eco-tourism as "responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local people." This means that those who implement and participate in Eco-tourism activities should follow the following principles:

Minimize impact
Build environmental and cultural awareness and respect
Provide positive experiences for both visitors and hosts
Provide direct financial benefits for conservation
Provide financial benefits and empowerment for local people
Raise sensitivity to host countries' political, environmental, and social climate
Support international human rights and labour agreements

Aware of the Environment - Today the "Green Laws" of conservation are making people aware of how man and the environment can live symbiotically for more time to come and eco-tourism is the only way to maximize the economic, environmental and social benefits of tourism. Everyone is a stakeholder in the process and we clearly need to avoid our past shortcomings and negative impact that they have had.

In India too the movement is gathering momentum with more and more travel and travel related organisation's are addressing the needs of the eco-tourists and promoting eco-tourism in the country. Some basic do's and don'ts of eco-tourism are listed below:

Do's

Carry back all non-degradable litter such as empty bottles, tins, plastic bags etc. These must not
litter the environment or be buried. They must be disposed in municipal dustbins only.
Observe the sanctity of holy sites, temples and local cultures.
Cut noise pollution. Do not blare aloud radios, tape recorders or other electronic entertainment
equipment in nature resorts, sanctuaries and wildlife parks.
In case temporary toilets are set-up near campsites, after defecation, cover with mud or sand. Make
sure that the spot is at least 30 meters away from the water source.
Respect people's privacy while taking photographs. Ask for prior permission before taking a
photograph.

Don'ts

Do not take away flora and fauna in the forms of cuttings, seeds or roots. It is illegal, especially in
the Himalayas. The environment is really delicate in this region and the bio-diversity of the region
has to be protected at all costs.
Do not use pollutants such as detergent, in streams or springs while washing and bathing.
Do not use wood as fuel to cook food at the campsite.
Do not leave cigarettes butts or make open fires in the forests.
Do not consume aerated drinks, alcohol, drugs or any other intoxicant and throw bottles in the wild.
Do not tempt the locals, especially children by offering them foodstuff or sweets. Respect local
traditions.
Polythene and plastics are non biodegradable and unhealthy for the environment and must not be
used and littered.

As a traveller, you will have an impact on the environment and culture of the place you are visiting. Here are some rules of thumb to make this impact positive!

Golden Rules When You Travel

Learn about your destination before you get there. Read guidebooks, travel articles, histories,
and/or novels by local authors and pay particular attention to customs such as greetings,
appropriate dress, eating behaviours, etc. Being sensitive to these customs will increase local
acceptance of you as a tourist and enrich your trip.
Follow established guidelines. Ask your eco-tour operator, guide and/or the local authorities what
their guidelines are for limiting tourism's impact on the environment and local culture. Staying on
trails, packing up your trash, and remaining set distances away from wildlife are a few ways to
minimize your impact in sensitive areas.
Seek out and support locally owned businesses. Support local businesses during your eco-travels to
ensure maximum community and conservation benefit from your spending.

Eco-Tourism in India is still at a very nascent stage, but there are for sure conscious efforts to save the fragile Himalayan Eco System and culture and heritage of the indigenous people, which is probably the largest concentration in the world.

Holiday Camping vis a vis Hotel accommodation are gathering momentum amongst the metropolis traveller. A plethora of holiday camping options are available in the Himalayan belt, where soft adventure tourism is packaged with holiday camping to create an acceptable eco-tourism product. Resorts tucked deep inside jungles of Karnataka, House-boats of Kerala, Tree Houses at Vythiri combine to make India one of the most diverse eco-tourism destinations on the planet.

Some of these are given below

Eco-Tourism Pioneers in Kerala
Jungle Lodges and Resorts - (Eco-Tourism Pioneers in South India)
The Camp RapidFire - Rishikesh, Uttaranchal
The Camp BodhiSatva - Rajgarh, Himachal Pradesh
The Himalayan Trout House - Tirthan, Himachal Pradesh
The Camp Purple - Mukteshwar
The Camp Kyari (one of the finest models of Eco-tourism in the country)-Village Kyari, Ramnagar
Camp Silver Sands - Rishikesh, Uttaranchal
Camp Lunagarh - Mori, Uttaranchal
The Himalayan River Runner Camp - Rishikesh, Uttaranchal
The OAI Camp - Rishikesh, Uttaranchal
The Leopard Beach Camp - Rishikesh, Uttaranchal


Saturday, May 30, 2009

Kerala Tourism: Sojourn through God’s own country

Kerala Tours have for you just what you are looking for- a perfect and memorable trip to Kerala. There are many hotels in Kerala ranging from the backwater resorts to forest lodges to spa/boutique hotels and so on.

There are many top-notch hotels in Kerala like the Taj Residency Hotel, White Fort Hotel, The Le Meridien Hotel and so on. Hotels in Kerala have all the facilities and amenities that ensure a comfortable stay in the heaven-like backwaters of Kerala. Iron and Ironing Board, Laundry Service, Minibar, Refrigerator, Remote-Controlled Cable Television, Safety Deposit Box/ In-Room Safe Satellite Television, Smoke Detectors, Sprinkler System, Stereo/Hi-Fi/CD Player, Tea and Coffee Making Facilities, Turndown Service, Umbrellas, Voicemail, Voltage 110/120 Wake Up Call, etc.

There are several beach resorts in Kerala that that offer a traditional ambience and cultural heritage along with most of them giving the tourist, a magnificent view of the sea waters. Room service, Hot water, Laundry, Beach, umbrellas, Beach decks, Cultural shows, Indoor and Outdoor games, Boating, Ayurveda treatment and Massage, Yoga and Meditation.

Hotels in Kerala also include accommodations that include hill resorts and houseboats in the backwaters of Kerala. There are 5 star hill resorts as well as two star resorts. There are several facilities like Multi Cuisine Restaurant, Roof Top Garden, Conference Hall, Swimming Pool, Trekking Bar, Badminton or Indoor Games, Health Club, Garden Restaurant.

Kerala backwaters are also a popular destination in Kerala. Apart from the regular and standard hotels in Kerala, there are several houseboats in the middle of the backwaters. This has been a stupendous success in the Kerala tourism. Backwaters give Kerala its distinct identity.

Kerala Tours has amazing packages for the leisurely and business travelers for a fascinating Kerala experience. India Tours deals with Kerala tours, Kerala packages, Kerala tour packages, Kerala tour, Kerala honeymoon, Kerala honeymoon holidays, Kerala houseboats, vacation packages for Kerala. India Tours offers some irresistible travel itineraries for a memorable trip to Kerala. One can also make reservations for hotels in various parts of Kerala like Munnar, hotels in Thekkady, hotels in Alleppey,Hotels in Kumarakom, Hotels in Cochin, Hotels in Kovalam, Hotels in Varkala, Hotels in Trivandrum at attractive discounted rates.

Hotels in Kerala serve absolutely mouth-watering cuisine. The traditional Kerala fares comprise both vegetarian and non-vegetarian specialties. Sadya is the traditional food of Kerala which contain par boiled pink rice, side dishes, savories, pickles and desserts spread out on a plantain leaf. Avial is another indispensable part of the Kerala fare. Other local fare includes Olan and Thoran and many more.

So what are you waiting for? Reserve a place now and enjoy your stay at the mesmerizing Kerala.