kERALA dIARIES
Day - 1 (Arrival in Kochin)
Erstwhile administration center of Dutch, Portuguese and British, Fort Kochi is known for its incredible architecture. Despite being passed on through three different colonial powers, the fort has managed to retain its old world charm. While here, tourists could see fine houses, which used to be the home of rich traders during the British era. Various churches and museums within the fort are a must visit too. Another must visit landmark is the Vasco House. For a visit to Fort Kochi, comfortable footwear is recommended as the excursion involves a lot of walking
Dutch Palace, also known as the Mattancherry Palace, is the perfect example of Kerala style architecture infused with colonial influences. The Palace was built around 1545 C.E. by the Portuguese as a present to then ruling king Veera Kerala Varma. The palace features a great collection of Murals, depicting fragments from Ramayana, Mahabharata and some great works of Sanskrit by poet Kalidasa spread across 300 sq. km. of the palace area. The museum also exhibits life-size portraits of the Kings of Cochin, their weaponry, royal accessories and coins issued by the kings. It is suggested not to carry your camera while you visit as photography is prohibited inside the palace
Dotting the waterfront, Chinese fishing nets are iconic landmarks of Kochi. Locally called Cheena Vala, this is one of the oldest fishing techniques. As per the historians, these fishing nets have been brought by Portuguese from Macau, once a Portuguese colony. While some accounts even mention that the concept of nets was introduced by Zheng He, a Chinese explorer who visited the Kochi shores over 500 years ago. Watching these tents suspending in the air is a spellbinding experience.
Dutch Palace, also known as the Mattancherry Palace, is the perfect example of Kerala style architecture infused with colonial influences. The Palace was built around 1545 C.E. by the Portuguese as a present to then ruling king Veera Kerala Varma. The palace features a great collection of Murals, depicting fragments from Ramayana, Mahabharata and some great works of Sanskrit by poet Kalidasa spread across 300 sq. km. of the palace area. The museum also exhibits life-size portraits of the Kings of Cochin, their weaponry, royal accessories and coins issued by the kings. It is suggested not to carry your camera while you visit as photography is prohibited inside the palace
Day - 2 (Kochin To Munnar)
- Wear trekking shoes.
- Try going near dawn for an amazing view
Day - 3 (Munnar)
- The museum is closed on Mondays
- Follow park rules diligently
One of the popular sightseeing places in Munnar is the Echo Point which is located at a distance of 15 kilometers away from Munnar. The point is known for its natural echo phenomenon which is what attracts tourists from all over. People can hear their name reverberating around the surroundings again and again as they shout out their name. Situated at an altitude of 600 ft. above sea level, it also offers a spectacular view of the enchanting valleys below and surroundings covered in a blanket of lush greenery. Tourists can take a stroll, soak in the misty landscape or take an exciting boat ride in a nearby lake. Since, the echo point can only be reached by trekking, it is suggested to wear comfortable shoes.
Day - 4 (Munnar To Thekkady)
Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a great number of rare and endangered species of flora and fauna. Also a notable tiger and elephant reserve, the Park is placed in a protected area of the Idukki and Pathanamthitta districts of Kerala. The sanctuary is inhabited by Nilgiri tahr, Jungle Cat, lion-tailed macaque, Bengal tiger, Indian elephant, gaur, sambar, a unique population of birds and many other species. The park is also home to immense bird population like Malabar Grey Hornbill, Indian Pied Hornbill, etc. Elephant ride, jeep ride, bamboo rafting and trekking are some of the ways to experience the beauty of the park.
A beautiful artificial lake amidst the lush Periyar Tiger Reserve, Periyar lake is a famous attraction that often witnesses the presence of Asian Elephant, Bengal Tiger, Indian Bison and Sambar Deer as they often come here to quench their thirst. The lake is known for offering an exciting boat safari and witness the magnificent wildlife of Kerala reveling in their natural habitat. In your quest for wildlife, you might even spy lovely creatures such as Malabar hornbills and flying squirrels. Also, the lake is home to several species of fish like Mahseer, the famous and endangered game fish of India
Located in the lush green environs of Thekkady, Chillies Spice Garden is a perfect place to get an insight into the flavours of South India. Learn and witness the process involved in the cultivation of these flavourful spices that associate with the name of South Indian food. From a variety of spices like cardamom, pepper, cinnamon, etc. to varied kinds of herbs and coffee, the garden is sure to leave you amazed. Take a whiff, feel and even taste these flavours in order to understand their nature. Feel refreshed to your soul as you step into the nourishing world of spices
