\u00a01.\u00a0<\/strong>A Day at Veli Tourist Village<\/strong><\/h4>\n![\"Veli](\"https:\/\/paradise-kerala.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/Veli-Tourist-Village.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
Image by\u00a0Kerala Tourism<\/a>\u00a0via Flickr<\/p>\nIf you are looking forward to spending some quality time with your family, the Veli Tourist Village is one of the best places to hangout. Situated on the outskirts of Thiruvananthapuram, this place is an ideal picnic spot. It has a children\u2019s park, a floating restaurant run by KTDC, stone sculptures by Kanayi Kunjiraman, ponds, cafeterias, food stalls to name a few.<\/p>\n
You can go for boating in the Veli lake. Pedal boats, row boats and speed boats are available. Those who want to enjoy the Veli beach can take a stroll along the walkway. Bird watching and horse riding are some other attractions.<\/p>\n
2. Champakkulam Boat Race<\/strong><\/h4>\n![\"Champakulam](\"https:\/\/paradise-kerala.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/champakulam-boat-race.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
One of the oldest boat races (vallam kali<\/em> in Malayalam) in Kerala, the Champakkulam Boat Race is held annually on the Moolam day in the Malayalam month of Midhunam (June\/July) on the Pamba river in Alappuzha district. The event heralds the boat race season in Kerala.<\/p>\nBoat teams belonging to various categories \u2013 chundan<\/em> (snake-boat), iruttu kutthi<\/em>, churulan<\/em>, veppu<\/em> among others compete with each other for the Rajapramukhan Trophy. The oarsmen row to the foot-tapping tunes of the vanchipattu<\/em> (boat-song) and exhibit immense fortitude and perseverance much to the excitement of the cheering crowd.<\/p>\nCome and revel in this frenzy event which is exclusively unique to Kerala.<\/p>\n
\u00a0<\/h4>\n3. Experience Nature at Gavi<\/strong><\/h4>\n![\"Gavi\"](\"https:\/\/paradise-kerala.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/Gavi.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
Image by\u00a0-Reji<\/a>\u00a0via Flickr<\/p>\n\u00a0Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and make a trip to experience Mother Nature. Standing at an elevation of 3399 ft above sea level, Gavi is a picturesque village located in Pathanamthitta district. This eco-tourist spot is a part of the Periyar Tiger Reserve and has attracted a lot of foreign tourists over the years.<\/p>\n
Gavi has a wide range of flora and fauna. The place boasts of two gopher trees; the only of its kind in India. It is home to endangered species like the Nilgiri Tahr and the Lion-tailed Macaque and has more than 250 species of birds.<\/p>\n
Gavi is one of the most sought after jungle safari locations in Kerala<\/a>. Jeep Safari packages are available so that you can enjoy wildlife.\u00a0Trekking, boating, outdoor camping, night safaris, a visit to the nearby cardamom factory are some of the other activities that can be tried out here.<\/span><\/p>\nJune is probably the best time to visit Gavi. With the arrival of monsoon showers, Gavi looks truly like a \u2018heaven\u2019 on earth. You will leave thoroughly rejuvenated with a fresh burst of energy.<\/p>\n
4. Admire Mural Paintings at Krishnapuram Palace<\/strong><\/h4>\n![\"Krishnapuram](\"https:\/\/paradise-kerala.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/Krishnapuram-palace.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
Image by\u00a0Appusviews<\/a>\u00a0via Wikimedia<\/p>\nA glimpse into the history of erstwhile rulers of kingdoms that existed in Kerala would be an interesting one. The Krishnapuram Palace in Kayamkulam located in the Alappuzha district is one such destination that showcases the beauty of Kerala architecture during the times of the kings of the Kayamkulam dynasty.<\/p>\n
![\"Krishnapuram](\"https:\/\/paradise-kerala.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/Krishnapuram-Palace-Gajendramoksham-painting.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
Image by\u00a0Appusviews<\/a>\u00a0via Wikimedia<\/p>\nThe palace is now a museum under the protection of the Archaeology Department. It houses a number of ancient paintings, sculptures and other artefacts. The most prominent one is the 18th<\/sup> century mural exhibit of Gajendra Moksham (salvation of elephant) which is 3 metres tall \u2013 the largest mural painting so far found in Kerala. Its unique blend of colours and expression is one of a kind.<\/p>\nThe palace is open from 9 am to 4:30 pm on all days except Mondays.<\/p>\n
\u00a0<\/h4>\n5. Explore the Historic Heritage of Fort Kochi<\/strong><\/h4>\n![\"fort](\"https:\/\/paradise-kerala.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/fort-kochi-net.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
Image by\u00a0prem<\/a>\u00a0via Flickr<\/p>\nHow about enjoying some Western architecture and heritage? Then head straight to the quaint, but urban town of Fort Kochi.<\/p>\n
Located south-west to the mainland of Kochi, Fort Kochi is a potpourri of cultures. The Portuguese, Dutch and the British had once dominated this town. The richness of the European architecture is reflected in the monuments built here.<\/p>\n
The region was once the centre of spice trade with China and the Middle East. It has populations of Jews, Jains, Christians, Hindus and Muslims. The churches and houses are a delight to watch featuring a mix of Indo-European architectural styles.<\/p>\n
![\"Santa](\"https:\/\/paradise-kerala.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/Santa-Cruz-Basilica.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
Image by\u00a0Parfen Rogozhin<\/a>\u00a0via Flickr<\/p>\n\u00a0St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India was built by the Portuguese in 1503. It owes its significance to the fact that Vasco da Gama was once buried there. Santa Cruz Basilica is another historic attraction here.<\/p>\n
Originally built by the Portuguese in 1505, the basilica showcases artistic splendour and Gothic architecture to the fullest. Bishop House, Old Harbour House, Indo-Portuguese museum, Fort Immanuel and Dutch Cemetery are some of the other historic landmarks.<\/p>\n
Don\u2019t forget to visit the beach and watch the fishermen operating the Chinese fishing nets. There are a number of wayside eateries and shops selling fish nearby. Enjoy the backwaters by taking a stroll along the promenade and munching groundnuts. Fort Kochi can be best explored on foot although cabs are available.<\/p>\n
6. Shopping at Jew Town<\/strong><\/h4>\n![\"Jew](\"https:\/\/paradise-kerala.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/Jew-Street.jpg\")
<\/p>\n
Image by\u00a0Suvajit Sengupta<\/a>\u00a0via Flickr<\/p>\nAnother historic place to visit in Kochi is the Jew Town in Mattancherry. Situated about 12 kms from Ernakulam and 4 kms from Fort Kochi, this town has one of the oldest Jewish communities in India. Most of their ancestors have come and settled here as early as the 15th<\/sup> and 16th<\/sup> centuries.<\/p>\nShopping here is an \u2018antique\u2019 experience. The narrow commercial street \u2013 Jew Street \u2013 houses a number of shops selling rare spices, curios, handicrafts, garments, wood carvings, lamps, glass, crockery, chandeliers, furniture, paintings and other souvenirs. Apart from Indian, most of the items are of European, Chinese and Arab origin.<\/p>\n
A big vaarpu<\/em> (bronze vessel), having a diameter of 3 metres, is one of the highlights of this street. There is also a philatelic bureau for stamp collectors. Walk down the street and you can feel the old-world charm of the buildings.<\/p>\n\u00a0<\/h4>\n7. Take a Pilgrimage to Kottiyoor<\/strong><\/h4>\n![\"Kottiyoor](\"https:\/\/paradise-kerala.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/Kottiyoor-temple-festival.jpg\")
<\/h4>\n
Image by\u00a0User:Sivavkm<\/a>\u00a0via Wikimedia<\/p>\n\u00a0<\/h4>\n
Temple festivals are an important part of the cultural milieu of Kerala. Kottiyoor Vaishaka Mahotsavam in Kannur district is a 27 – day annual pilgrimage observed by Hindus in commemoration of the mythological Daksha Yaga.<\/p>\n
It is celebrated during May-June months depending on the Malayalam calendar. This year\u2019s festival began on 20th<\/sup> May and will end on 16th<\/sup> June.<\/p>\nIn Kottiyoor, there are two temples situated on the banks of the river, Bavali \u2013 Ikkare Kottiyoor and the temporary shrine, Akkare Kottiyoor. The presiding deity in both the temples is Lord Shiva.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/strong><\/p>\nAs part of the festival, makeshift thatched huts are erected on the premises of Akkare Kottiyoor which is located at the centre of a pond. Hundreds of devotees circumambulate the shrine mostly during rainfall.<\/p>\n
![\"Kottiyoor](\"https:\/\/paradise-kerala.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/Kottiyoor-temple-festival-2016.png\")
<\/p>\n
<\/p>\nIf you are looking forward to spending some quality time with your family, the Veli Tourist Village is one of the best places to hangout. Situated on the outskirts of Thiruvananthapuram, this place is an ideal picnic spot. It has a children\u2019s park, a floating restaurant run by KTDC, stone sculptures by Kanayi Kunjiraman, ponds, cafeterias, food stalls to name a few.<\/p>\n
You can go for boating in the Veli lake. Pedal boats, row boats and speed boats are available. Those who want to enjoy the Veli beach can take a stroll along the walkway. Bird watching and horse riding are some other attractions.<\/p>\n
2. Champakkulam Boat Race<\/strong><\/h4>\n<\/p>\n
One of the oldest boat races (vallam kali<\/em> in Malayalam) in Kerala, the Champakkulam Boat Race is held annually on the Moolam day in the Malayalam month of Midhunam (June\/July) on the Pamba river in Alappuzha district. The event heralds the boat race season in Kerala.<\/p>\nBoat teams belonging to various categories \u2013 chundan<\/em> (snake-boat), iruttu kutthi<\/em>, churulan<\/em>, veppu<\/em> among others compete with each other for the Rajapramukhan Trophy. The oarsmen row to the foot-tapping tunes of the vanchipattu<\/em> (boat-song) and exhibit immense fortitude and perseverance much to the excitement of the cheering crowd.<\/p>\nCome and revel in this frenzy event which is exclusively unique to Kerala.<\/p>\n
\u00a0<\/h4>\n3. Experience Nature at Gavi<\/strong><\/h4>\n<\/p>\n
Image by\u00a0-Reji<\/a>\u00a0via Flickr<\/p>\n\u00a0Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and make a trip to experience Mother Nature. Standing at an elevation of 3399 ft above sea level, Gavi is a picturesque village located in Pathanamthitta district. This eco-tourist spot is a part of the Periyar Tiger Reserve and has attracted a lot of foreign tourists over the years.<\/p>\n
Gavi has a wide range of flora and fauna. The place boasts of two gopher trees; the only of its kind in India. It is home to endangered species like the Nilgiri Tahr and the Lion-tailed Macaque and has more than 250 species of birds.<\/p>\n
Gavi is one of the most sought after jungle safari locations in Kerala<\/a>. Jeep Safari packages are available so that you can enjoy wildlife.\u00a0Trekking, boating, outdoor camping, night safaris, a visit to the nearby cardamom factory are some of the other activities that can be tried out here.<\/span><\/p>\nJune is probably the best time to visit Gavi. With the arrival of monsoon showers, Gavi looks truly like a \u2018heaven\u2019 on earth. You will leave thoroughly rejuvenated with a fresh burst of energy.<\/p>\n
4. Admire Mural Paintings at Krishnapuram Palace<\/strong><\/h4>\n<\/p>\n
Image by\u00a0Appusviews<\/a>\u00a0via Wikimedia<\/p>\nA glimpse into the history of erstwhile rulers of kingdoms that existed in Kerala would be an interesting one. The Krishnapuram Palace in Kayamkulam located in the Alappuzha district is one such destination that showcases the beauty of Kerala architecture during the times of the kings of the Kayamkulam dynasty.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Image by\u00a0Appusviews<\/a>\u00a0via Wikimedia<\/p>\nThe palace is now a museum under the protection of the Archaeology Department. It houses a number of ancient paintings, sculptures and other artefacts. The most prominent one is the 18th<\/sup> century mural exhibit of Gajendra Moksham (salvation of elephant) which is 3 metres tall \u2013 the largest mural painting so far found in Kerala. Its unique blend of colours and expression is one of a kind.<\/p>\nThe palace is open from 9 am to 4:30 pm on all days except Mondays.<\/p>\n
\u00a0<\/h4>\n5. Explore the Historic Heritage of Fort Kochi<\/strong><\/h4>\n<\/p>\n
Image by\u00a0prem<\/a>\u00a0via Flickr<\/p>\nHow about enjoying some Western architecture and heritage? Then head straight to the quaint, but urban town of Fort Kochi.<\/p>\n
Located south-west to the mainland of Kochi, Fort Kochi is a potpourri of cultures. The Portuguese, Dutch and the British had once dominated this town. The richness of the European architecture is reflected in the monuments built here.<\/p>\n
The region was once the centre of spice trade with China and the Middle East. It has populations of Jews, Jains, Christians, Hindus and Muslims. The churches and houses are a delight to watch featuring a mix of Indo-European architectural styles.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Image by\u00a0Parfen Rogozhin<\/a>\u00a0via Flickr<\/p>\n\u00a0St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India was built by the Portuguese in 1503. It owes its significance to the fact that Vasco da Gama was once buried there. Santa Cruz Basilica is another historic attraction here.<\/p>\n
Originally built by the Portuguese in 1505, the basilica showcases artistic splendour and Gothic architecture to the fullest. Bishop House, Old Harbour House, Indo-Portuguese museum, Fort Immanuel and Dutch Cemetery are some of the other historic landmarks.<\/p>\n
Don\u2019t forget to visit the beach and watch the fishermen operating the Chinese fishing nets. There are a number of wayside eateries and shops selling fish nearby. Enjoy the backwaters by taking a stroll along the promenade and munching groundnuts. Fort Kochi can be best explored on foot although cabs are available.<\/p>\n
6. Shopping at Jew Town<\/strong><\/h4>\n<\/p>\n
Image by\u00a0Suvajit Sengupta<\/a>\u00a0via Flickr<\/p>\nAnother historic place to visit in Kochi is the Jew Town in Mattancherry. Situated about 12 kms from Ernakulam and 4 kms from Fort Kochi, this town has one of the oldest Jewish communities in India. Most of their ancestors have come and settled here as early as the 15th<\/sup> and 16th<\/sup> centuries.<\/p>\nShopping here is an \u2018antique\u2019 experience. The narrow commercial street \u2013 Jew Street \u2013 houses a number of shops selling rare spices, curios, handicrafts, garments, wood carvings, lamps, glass, crockery, chandeliers, furniture, paintings and other souvenirs. Apart from Indian, most of the items are of European, Chinese and Arab origin.<\/p>\n
A big vaarpu<\/em> (bronze vessel), having a diameter of 3 metres, is one of the highlights of this street. There is also a philatelic bureau for stamp collectors. Walk down the street and you can feel the old-world charm of the buildings.<\/p>\n\u00a0<\/h4>\n7. Take a Pilgrimage to Kottiyoor<\/strong><\/h4>\n<\/h4>\n
Image by\u00a0User:Sivavkm<\/a>\u00a0via Wikimedia<\/p>\n\u00a0<\/h4>\n
Temple festivals are an important part of the cultural milieu of Kerala. Kottiyoor Vaishaka Mahotsavam in Kannur district is a 27 – day annual pilgrimage observed by Hindus in commemoration of the mythological Daksha Yaga.<\/p>\n
It is celebrated during May-June months depending on the Malayalam calendar. This year\u2019s festival began on 20th<\/sup> May and will end on 16th<\/sup> June.<\/p>\nIn Kottiyoor, there are two temples situated on the banks of the river, Bavali \u2013 Ikkare Kottiyoor and the temporary shrine, Akkare Kottiyoor. The presiding deity in both the temples is Lord Shiva.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/strong><\/p>\nAs part of the festival, makeshift thatched huts are erected on the premises of Akkare Kottiyoor which is located at the centre of a pond. Hundreds of devotees circumambulate the shrine mostly during rainfall.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
<\/p>\nBoat teams belonging to various categories \u2013 chundan<\/em> (snake-boat), iruttu kutthi<\/em>, churulan<\/em>, veppu<\/em> among others compete with each other for the Rajapramukhan Trophy. The oarsmen row to the foot-tapping tunes of the vanchipattu<\/em> (boat-song) and exhibit immense fortitude and perseverance much to the excitement of the cheering crowd.<\/p>\n Come and revel in this frenzy event which is exclusively unique to Kerala.<\/p>\n Image by\u00a0-Reji<\/a>\u00a0via Flickr<\/p>\n \u00a0Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and make a trip to experience Mother Nature. Standing at an elevation of 3399 ft above sea level, Gavi is a picturesque village located in Pathanamthitta district. This eco-tourist spot is a part of the Periyar Tiger Reserve and has attracted a lot of foreign tourists over the years.<\/p>\n Gavi has a wide range of flora and fauna. The place boasts of two gopher trees; the only of its kind in India. It is home to endangered species like the Nilgiri Tahr and the Lion-tailed Macaque and has more than 250 species of birds.<\/p>\n Gavi is one of the most sought after jungle safari locations in Kerala<\/a>. Jeep Safari packages are available so that you can enjoy wildlife.\u00a0Trekking, boating, outdoor camping, night safaris, a visit to the nearby cardamom factory are some of the other activities that can be tried out here.<\/span><\/p>\n June is probably the best time to visit Gavi. With the arrival of monsoon showers, Gavi looks truly like a \u2018heaven\u2019 on earth. You will leave thoroughly rejuvenated with a fresh burst of energy.<\/p>\n Image by\u00a0Appusviews<\/a>\u00a0via Wikimedia<\/p>\n A glimpse into the history of erstwhile rulers of kingdoms that existed in Kerala would be an interesting one. The Krishnapuram Palace in Kayamkulam located in the Alappuzha district is one such destination that showcases the beauty of Kerala architecture during the times of the kings of the Kayamkulam dynasty.<\/p>\n Image by\u00a0Appusviews<\/a>\u00a0via Wikimedia<\/p>\n The palace is now a museum under the protection of the Archaeology Department. It houses a number of ancient paintings, sculptures and other artefacts. The most prominent one is the 18th<\/sup> century mural exhibit of Gajendra Moksham (salvation of elephant) which is 3 metres tall \u2013 the largest mural painting so far found in Kerala. Its unique blend of colours and expression is one of a kind.<\/p>\n The palace is open from 9 am to 4:30 pm on all days except Mondays.<\/p>\n Image by\u00a0prem<\/a>\u00a0via Flickr<\/p>\n How about enjoying some Western architecture and heritage? Then head straight to the quaint, but urban town of Fort Kochi.<\/p>\n Located south-west to the mainland of Kochi, Fort Kochi is a potpourri of cultures. The Portuguese, Dutch and the British had once dominated this town. The richness of the European architecture is reflected in the monuments built here.<\/p>\n The region was once the centre of spice trade with China and the Middle East. It has populations of Jews, Jains, Christians, Hindus and Muslims. The churches and houses are a delight to watch featuring a mix of Indo-European architectural styles.<\/p>\n Image by\u00a0Parfen Rogozhin<\/a>\u00a0via Flickr<\/p>\n \u00a0St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India was built by the Portuguese in 1503. It owes its significance to the fact that Vasco da Gama was once buried there. Santa Cruz Basilica is another historic attraction here.<\/p>\n Originally built by the Portuguese in 1505, the basilica showcases artistic splendour and Gothic architecture to the fullest. Bishop House, Old Harbour House, Indo-Portuguese museum, Fort Immanuel and Dutch Cemetery are some of the other historic landmarks.<\/p>\n Don\u2019t forget to visit the beach and watch the fishermen operating the Chinese fishing nets. There are a number of wayside eateries and shops selling fish nearby. Enjoy the backwaters by taking a stroll along the promenade and munching groundnuts. Fort Kochi can be best explored on foot although cabs are available.<\/p>\n Image by\u00a0Suvajit Sengupta<\/a>\u00a0via Flickr<\/p>\n Another historic place to visit in Kochi is the Jew Town in Mattancherry. Situated about 12 kms from Ernakulam and 4 kms from Fort Kochi, this town has one of the oldest Jewish communities in India. Most of their ancestors have come and settled here as early as the 15th<\/sup> and 16th<\/sup> centuries.<\/p>\n Shopping here is an \u2018antique\u2019 experience. The narrow commercial street \u2013 Jew Street \u2013 houses a number of shops selling rare spices, curios, handicrafts, garments, wood carvings, lamps, glass, crockery, chandeliers, furniture, paintings and other souvenirs. Apart from Indian, most of the items are of European, Chinese and Arab origin.<\/p>\n A big vaarpu<\/em> (bronze vessel), having a diameter of 3 metres, is one of the highlights of this street. There is also a philatelic bureau for stamp collectors. Walk down the street and you can feel the old-world charm of the buildings.<\/p>\n Image by\u00a0User:Sivavkm<\/a>\u00a0via Wikimedia<\/p>\n Temple festivals are an important part of the cultural milieu of Kerala. Kottiyoor Vaishaka Mahotsavam in Kannur district is a 27 – day annual pilgrimage observed by Hindus in commemoration of the mythological Daksha Yaga.<\/p>\n It is celebrated during May-June months depending on the Malayalam calendar. This year\u2019s festival began on 20th<\/sup> May and will end on 16th<\/sup> June.<\/p>\n In Kottiyoor, there are two temples situated on the banks of the river, Bavali \u2013 Ikkare Kottiyoor and the temporary shrine, Akkare Kottiyoor. The presiding deity in both the temples is Lord Shiva.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/strong><\/p>\n As part of the festival, makeshift thatched huts are erected on the premises of Akkare Kottiyoor which is located at the centre of a pond. Hundreds of devotees circumambulate the shrine mostly during rainfall.<\/p>\n\u00a0<\/h4>\n
3. Experience Nature at Gavi<\/strong><\/h4>\n
<\/p>\n4. Admire Mural Paintings at Krishnapuram Palace<\/strong><\/h4>\n
<\/p>\n<\/p>\n\u00a0<\/h4>\n
5. Explore the Historic Heritage of Fort Kochi<\/strong><\/h4>\n
<\/p>\n<\/p>\n6. Shopping at Jew Town<\/strong><\/h4>\n
<\/p>\n\u00a0<\/h4>\n
7. Take a Pilgrimage to Kottiyoor<\/strong><\/h4>\n
<\/h4>\n\u00a0<\/h4>\n
<\/p>\n
![\"wayanad](\"https:\/\/paradise-kerala.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/06\/wayanad-coffee.jpg\")
<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/paradise-kerala.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/Get-Your-Tour-Plan-1.jpg\")
<\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"