Backwaters in Kerala
Steeped in greenery and natural beauty, Kerala is fast gaining momentum as a tourist destination and the credit goes to its fascinating attractions. Backwaters seems to top the list. The state is blessed with outstanding network of canals, lakes, lagoons and estuaries which are the perfect places to enjoy nature. Backwaters of Kerala have played a major role in helping it earn international fame. The peaceful and blissful blue backwaters of Kerela promise to make your experience so treasured that it gets etched in your mind forever. Palm trees, pandanus shrubs, leafy plants and bushes fringing the backwaters leave the onlookers enchanted.The backwater cruise in Kerala envelops beauty, excitement, fun and pleasure. Cruising across the backwaters on a traditional houseboat is like slipping slowly into a heavenly dream. The traditional houseboats of Kerala are called Kettuvallams which are available in various sizes. Equipped with modern comforts and traditional style, these houseboats are the best ways of exploring the treasured beauty of Kerala. Eco-friendly in nature, Kettuvallam is made of bamboo poles, coconut fibre, ropes, bamboo mats, carpets etc. It has one or two rooms and a small sitting room. The food served consists of local Kerala dishes giving the real taste of Kerala culture to the tourists.
The mesmerizing backwaters of Kerala attract beautiful birds such as terns, kingfisher, darters and cormorants. Other aquatic species which have found a home in Kerala backwaters are crabs, frogs and mudskippers. Besides providing entertainment to the tourists, Kerala backwaters holds great importance for the local people of Kerala. They are used by the local people for transportation, fishing and agriculture. Backwater lands in Kuttanad region are extensively used for growing rice.
Some of the famous backwater regions in Kerala are:
Kollam:
Popularly known as 'Swapnadesh', Kollam is one of the most famous backwater destinations of Kerala. A cruise on Kollam backwaters will reward you with wonderful sights of lotuses and water lilies.
Alappuzha/ Alleppey:
Tourists flock to Alappuzha backwaters for a breathtaking experience. Its admirers compare it with Venice(a beautiful city in Italy). On hour by boat from Alappuzha will bring you face to face with historic colonial establishments and a arresting beach.
Kuttanad:
This region offers delightful views of lush green paddy fields separated by dikes(an artificial earthen wall constructed as a defence). This region consists of beautiful lakes, canals, rivers and rivulets.
Kumarakom:
The beauty of this destination can not be described in words, one must see it to believe it. Located on Vembanana Lake, it is a bird sanctuary consisting of a a wide variety of birds like migratory Siberian storks. It offers great water sport facilities.
Kasargod:
The proud land of immense natural beauty, Kasargod is a great backwater destination. It is also famous for rice cultivation and coir processing. The nearby area of Kasargod is dotted with several small islands.
Thiruvallam:
Located only 6 km from Thiruvananthapuram, Thiruvallam is the perfect place for canoe rides. Situated near this amazing destination is the Veli Lagoon where you can enjoy exciting water sports. There is also a park for children near Thiruvallam.
Kozhikode:
Kozhikode is fast gaining popularity as a hot backwater destination of Kerala. Water sports facilities are also available here.
Beaches in Kerala
Beaches in Kerala are always an indispensable part of the tour itineraries of the tourists from across the globe. Kerala is blessed with many mesmerizing beaches which simply stand out as the breath-taking tourist destinations. Spend your holidays on Kerala beaches and take back home some treasured memories which will never fade away from your mind. Palm fringed beaches steeped in sheer natural beauty are the perfect places for enjoying pleasurable holidays. Properly maintained and securely guarded, the beaches of Kerala offer you magical waves, smiling sun, cool breeze, swaying palm trees, and delicious sea food and above all an experience of a life time.Some of the celebrated beaches of Kerala are:
Kovalam Beach:
Famous as the most happening beach destination of Kerala, Kovalam beach is flocked by thousands of tourist every year. It is located around 16 km from Trivandrum, the capital of Kerala and is easily accessible. It is a cluster of three crescent shaped beaches—the Light House beach, the Hawa beach and the Samudra beach. On these beaches you can enjoy exciting water sports which will add more adventure to your holidays. Also enjoy the rejuvenating Ayurveda massage at Kovalam beach to pamper your body, mind and soul. Several luxurious and budget hotels dot the landscape of the beach offering a great opportunity to the tourists to enjoy great holidays. The evenings here are adorned with wonderful cultural programmes.
Varkala Beach:
Occupying an important place on the itinerary of the tourists, Varkala beach is famous for its mineral water springs which are believed to possess medicinal properties. This beach is also held in high esteem by Hindus as it is one of the known pilgrimage centre in Kerala.
Alappuzha beach:
No less than a fairy tale, Alappuzha beach is a big hit with tourists. Relax in the picturesque surroundings of the Alappuzha beach and get close to nature. Alappuzha in Kerala is not only famous for its lovely beach but also for its fascinating backwaters which serve as the venue for the exciting Snake boat races.
Beypore beach:
Holding immense historic importance, Beypore beach offers a wide variety of activities to indulge in. Enjoy sunbathing on the beach, watch picturesque surroundings, walk up to the nearby villages, romance with the giant waves or watch the craftsmen make traditional Arabian trading vessels.
Maraikulam beach:
Besides the azure waters of the sea, a rejuvenating experience, peaceful ambiance and wonderful scenery, Maraikulam beach offers you the Marari Beach Resort as a perfect accommodation option.
Kappad beach:
Once an important sea route for trade between Europe and India, Kappad beach is dotted with many rocks. One of the main attraction here is a rock protruding into the sea. This rock also has a temple on it. The sight of the Kappad beach from the top of this rock is simply rocking! The ambiance of this beach is peaceful and blissful. The best route for reaching this wonderful beach is through backwaters. It is located 16 km from Kozhikhode, the main town of Kerala.
Tea and Coffee Gardens
Kerala seems to be the favourite topic in the world of travelogues and travel magazines because of its happening attractions. Besides beaches, backwaters and many other mesmerizing attractions of Kerala, Tea and Coffee Gardens are the destinations which should not be given a miss. In Kerala, begin your adventure at the lush green tea and coffee gardens at Munnar and Periyar. The scenic beauty and fresh air of these gardens will leave you spell bound. Munnar is dotted with maximum tea and coffee gardens in the entire Kerala and plays an important role in the economy of the state. It boasts of around 16 tea gardens sprawling over an area of 85 sq km. Carpeted with aromatic tea, coffee and spices, the land of Periyar is a wonderful destination to explore. Tea plantation was first introduced in the beautiful Nilgiri Hills in 1832. Coffee plantation was introduced in India by Ba Abadam, a Muslim saint form the holy city of Mecca. He brought a few coffee seeds and grown then in the Chandragiri Hills in Karnataka, India in the 17th century. Thousands of workers work at these tea and coffee gardens.Covering an area of 682.400 hectares, the famous Coffee gardens are located in Gavi, Munnar and Nenmara in Kerala. Vandiperiyar is also famous for its coffee gardens. The coffee gardens in Kerala are under the management of the Kerala Forest Development Corporation Limited since 1976.Travel to these gardens and enjoy nature's beauty with a refreshing cup of tea /coffee. Approach the workers there and learn the art of recognising the quality of tea and coffee. Take back home some aromatic packets of tea and coffee which are the popular items of Kerala. With every sip of tea/coffee you will glide down the memory lane and relive your Kerala vacations.
House Boats Kerala
Backwaters cruise on the elegant houseboats of Kerela is something liked by every tourist visiting the state. The very idea of spending some time in a floating house amidst beautiful surroundings is so fascinating. Just imagine how much more great the real experience would be! Kerala is a land of lagoons, lakes, rivers, backwaters and beaches offering different kinds of houseboats to experience the holidays of a lime-time.The houseboats of Kerala are famous among tourists and is something which is never given a miss by them. Exploring the beautiful land of Kerala on its houseboats is truly enchanting. The houseboats are locally known as 'Kettuvallam' meaning 'boats with a living space'. Natural products are used in making the houseboats. The roof of the houseboat is designed with bamboo mats, sticks, palm leaves and wood. The flooring is done with wooden planks and coir mats. The outer surface of the houseboat is coated with a layer of cashew nut oil for protective purpose. These houseboats are usually 80 feet long and 15 feet wide in the middle. Hats off to the craftsmen of Kerala who fashion such a marvellous structure by using simple raw materials.
In olden days houseboats were mainly used in the transportation of goods. The journeys of the boatmen were marked by singing traditional songs. They would cook together, eat together and enjoy their journey completely. Later these houseboats made waves in the world of tourism. Tourism in Kerala transformed these simple houseboats into 'floating palaces' with the perfect blend of modern facilities and traditional décor. The houseboat consists of well maintained bedrooms, modern toilets, beautiful living rooms, dining area, kitchen and airy balcony from where you can enjoy fishing.
Plan a stay at the houseboat of Kerala and enjoy the scenic beauty while you float!
Ayurveda in Kerala
Kerala boasts of some of the best Ayurveda Resorts in the world. Kollam in Kerala is one of the hot spots for Ayurvedic massages and treatment. Rejuvenate your body, mind and soul with Kerala Ayurveda at Kollam. This place is dotted with amazing Ayurvedic resorts offering sheer hospitality, luxurious aura and blissful Ayurvedic therapy. One of the most famous resorts here is Aquaserene Ayurvedic resort. It has skilled therapist offering best of treatments for various ailments. The Ashtamudi Resort is another remarkable resort in Kollam. It boasts of its private rejuvenation island which is the venue for Ayurvedic treatments. Other resorts worth mentioning are Somatheeram Ayurvedic Resort in Kovalam, Keraleeyam Heritage Home and Ayurvedic Resort in alleppey and Kairali Ayurvedic Health Resort in Palakkad. Pamper yourself at a five-star Ayurveda Resort, beach Ayurveda Resort or backwater Ayurveda Resorts. Kerala offers many options.Ayurveda is synonymous with Kerala. It is an ancient system of healing which is very popular in this state. Originated in India around 5000 years ago, Ayurveda occupies a prized place in Kerala. The state is blessed with rich flora consisting of rare herbs and natural oils. Apart from this rich flora, Kerala also has salubrious climate and great monsoon which are propitious for the practice of Ayurveda. The term “Ayurveda” is derived from two words—ayus meaning “life principle” and veda refers to a system of “knowledge”. Thus Ayurveda means the “knowledge of life”. Dhanvantari, the physician to the heavenly deities in Hindu mythology, received the knowledge of Ayurveda from Lord Brahma. The first book on Ayurveda was written by Agnivesha in Vedic times. It was named as ' Agnivesh tantra'. Later new additions were made to the text of this book by Charaka and it was renamed as Charaka Samhita. Vagbhata from 7th century is one of the most celebrated writers of Ayurveda.
People from across the globe come to Kerala for various Ayurvedic treatments. Ailments such as arthritis, paralysis, obesity, sinusitis, migraine, premature ageing and skin problems can easily cured by this ancient system of medicine.
The eight branches of Ayurveda are:
- Internal Medicine - Kayachikitsa
- Pediatrics - Kaumarabhritya Tantra
- Psychology/Psychiatry - Bhuta Vidya
- Ears, eyes, nose and throat - Shalakya tantra
- Surgery - Shalya Tantra
- Toxicology - Agada Tantra
- Rejuvenation - Rasayana Tantra
- Fertility Therapy - Vajikarana Tantra
Ayurveda Specialities:
Ayurveda and Marma Chikitsa: It involves body massage by applying enough pressure on the marmas(key points) in human body.
Ophthalmology in Ayurveda: It deals with the diseases of eyes.
Prasoothi Tantra and Ayurveda: Prasoothi Tantra deals with the care given to pregnant women for the birth of a healthy baby.
Salya Tantra and Ayurveda: Salya Tantra refers to the technique of surgery in Ayurveda.
Ashtanga and Ayurveda: Ashtanga Ayurveda is divided into eight main classes dealing with different kinds if diseases.
Kaya Chikitsa and Ayurveda: Kaya means body and Chikitsa refers to treatment, thus Kaya Chikitsa deals with treatment of the diseases afflicting the body.
Balachikitsa (pediatrics) and Ayurveda: It deals with the care of children by preventing or treating methods.
Damshtra Chikitsa( Toxicology): It is one of the eight branches of Ayurveda dealing with toxins in the body.
Shalakya Tantra: It deals with diseases that affect eyes, nose, throat, ears and head.
Myths associated with Ayurveda:
- Ayurveda is completely herbal
Ayurveda involves the use of herbs but it also uses several other ingredients such as ghee, honey, self fermented alcohol in the preparation of medicines.
- Ayurveda is vegetarian
Besides the liberal use of herbs, ghee, honey etc Ayurveda also uses mutton extracts and fish oil.
- Ayurveda is not in accord with modern science
Ayurvedic treatments give fruitful results which shows that it is very much in tune with modern science.
- Ayurvedic medicines are not clinically tested
Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine which got perfected through the centuries.
- Ayurvedic medicines work at slow pace
The pace at which ayurvedic medicine works depends on the disease and its cause. Some treatments are fast while some are slow. Above all, ayurveda not only treats the symptoms but also eliminate the root cause of the disease.
- Ayurvedic medicines cause no harm
Ayurvedic medicines should always be taken under medical supervision as even the herbs can have some side effects.
Kathakali Dance
“Then come the lights shining on you from above. You are a performer. You forget all you learned, the process of technique, the fear, the pain, you even forget who you are you become one with the music, the lights, indeed one with the dance.” It is a quote by Shirley Maclaine but the essence it echoes can be truly seen during Kathakali performances in Kerala.
Kathakali dance or dance-drama occupies a prized place in the culture of Kerala. Surcharged with passion, the Kathakali dancers set the stage on fire with their performances. During the performances the dancers play various characters such as God, demon, hero and heroines. Heavy make up and elaborate costumes are the most striking features of Kathakali dance. Kathakali is a classical dance form which earned international fame for Kerala. The word Katha means story and kali means play. Its history dates back to the 17th century. The Ramamattom and Krishnattom are the two traditional art forms which gave birth to Kathakali. During its evolution Kathakali also incorporated elements from folk and martial arts which were quite popular in Kerala during that time. This dance-drama is a perfect blend of various art forms such as dance, music, drama, literature and instruments.
Initially 101 classical Kathakali stories were composed, each of which would last a whole night. But these days the concise version of each story(lasts for 2-4 hours) is preferred. The popular stories enacted in Kathakali are Nala Charitam(a story from the Mahabharata), Duryodhana Vadham(a story from the Mahabharata), Kalyanasowgandhikam(the story of Bhima going to gather flowers for Panchali)Kiratham (Arjun and lord Shiva's fight, from Mahabharata) and Karna Shapadham(from Mahabharata).
Kathakali dancers put in a lot of hard work in learning this fabulous art form. They undergo vigorous training and their training period usually lasts for 8-10 years. Their mudras(hand gesture), facial expressions and body movements paint a thousand words during the performance. Their colourful make up give them a dramatic look which adds more beauty to the dance. It takes them hours to wear make up. Everything about Kathakali dance is extraordinary!
Chinese Fishing Net
The Chinese fishing nets are one of the fascinating attractions of Kerala. Their beauty is attributed to their size, elegant construction and the way they work. The Chinese fishing nets are popularly known as Cheenavala in Kerala. The very name of these beautiful nets indicates that they are Chinese in origin. These were first introduced in Kochi, Kerala by the Chinese explorer Zheng He. Today these nets are mostly found on the beaches of Kochi and Vasco-da-Gama Square near the Fort Kochi. The places around Bastion Bungalow, Santa Cruz Basilica and VOC Gate are also dotted with the nets.Chinese fishing nets are fixed land installations set up on bamboo or teak poles and are operated from the shores. Used for fishing, each net is at least 10 m in height and consists of a cantilever with an outstretched net suspended over the sea. For counterbalance large stones are suspended by rope at the other end. In order to operate each fishing net a team of at least six fishermen is required. The net is suspended in the mid air all along the coast. It is then left untouched for few minutes and then lifted gently by the team. Balance has to be maintained while raising the net.
Visit Kochi and see the fishermen using the Chinese fishing nets for catching fish in a unique way. Within few minutes they are able to catch a moderate amount of fish and crustaceans which you can buy for gratifying your taste buds. The best time to have a look at the Chinese fishing nets at Kochi is during sunset. That is the time when it looks perfect and picturesque. It seems as if a page from a fairy tale has been presented before you.
Spice Plantation Market
You can add some spice to your Kerala Tour by visiting its spice plantations. Have a close look at the spice plantations and breathe in the exotic aroma of the spices. The Holy land of Kerala is well known for common Indian spices such as pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, curry leaf, cloves, nutmeg and many more. Kerala also produces spices which are used worldwide in the name of flavours like vanilla, oregano, rosemary, thyme, basil, mint, bay leaf and sage. All these rich spices of Kerala are not just aromatic in nature, used in everyday cooking but also used for medicinal purposes also. Spices of Kerala hold a major part of the Indian economy. Kerala has been an important spice trading centre since early days. With several varieties of spices, Kerala was known as the spice capital of the world in ancient times.It is truly fascinating to see the spice plantations of Kerala as different portions of each plantation is used for growing different spices. The marvellous beauty spots like Munnar, Periyar and Wayanand are famous for the plantations of good spices of Kerala. A stay at the lodges and mansions at the spice plantations of Kerala will surely offer you a great opportunity de-stress yourself. Cool atmosphere, aromatic air to breathe, peaceful greenery...what else is required to define “Quality Time With Mother Nature”?
Kerala Wildlife Sanctuaries
Kerala is a land notable for its rich wildlife. Kerala boasts of around 10,000 plant species out of which 900 species are of medicinal use. Blessed with a wide variety of forests such as tropical wet evergreen forest, semi-evergreen forest, tropical moist and dry deciduous forest, subtropical and temperate forest, Kerala offers great opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts. The biodiversity of Kerala can fire your imagination. It has 102 species of mammals, 476 species of birds, 202 species of freshwater fishes, 169 species of reptiles and 89 species of amphibians.
On your wildlife tour in Kerala you will get a chance to enjoy its greenery and natural beauty. The state seems to be in perfect harmony with nature. It is the place where you can see some enchanting wildlife in their natural habitat. The rare species of butterfly like the Malabar Tree Nymph is also found here. Kerala is a home to several National Parks, Wildlife Sanctuaries and Tiger Reserves. These national parks, sanctuaries and reserves shelter commendable population of much sought after wildlife species such as tiger, endangered one-horned Rhino, endangered Asiatic Lion and tusker. These are just a few animals who attract tourists from across the globe. Adventurous wildlife expedition in Kerala is a wonderful experience.
Some of the popular wildlife hotspots in Kerala are: Eravikulam National Park, Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and Bird Sanctuary, Kumarakom.
Kalaripayattu Martial Arts
Kerala - The Arena Of Martial Art FormsIt's now time to witness the ancient martial art from the roots of India. Watch out for the battlefield in Kerala. Kerala, famous for its various unique art forms since decades, is also credited for the origin of the highly acclaimed martial art form- Kalaripayattu. Kalari being one of the oldest martial arts in the world is evolved in north Kerala. Besides, it has nurtured numerous other martial art forms such as Parisa Kali, Velakanni, Valeru, Kunderu and Njaninmel Kali.
Kalaripayattu has its roots in Kalari. In ancient times, Kalari was like an esteemed school or holy place which was popular for learning subjects like medicine, philosophy, architecture, astrology and geometry. Knowledge on Yoga and some fighting styles was also imparted to the students. These ancient fighting styles, in a collaborative manner, were discovered as Kalaripayattu as a whole. It was a blend of several fight forms, and required quick responsiveness, speed, flexibility and good coordination of soul, mind & body. Kalaripayattu is an immortal martial art form. The basic pattern for this fight is derived from Yoga and various medical treatment related to Kalaripayattu is extracted from Ayurveda. Sometimes Kalaripayattu seems to be a perfect blend of fighting styles of both South & North India. This art form has lived for more than 1,500 years now.
Besides, Parisa Kali of North Malabar and Velakanni of Travancore are the two other renowned martial art forms of Kerala. These art forms also require a hard physical training and knowledge regarding the use of arms. One needs to develop and maintain a good speed and flexibility for these martial art forms. The Velaksanni martial art form symbolizes the style followed in the battle of Kurukshetra, and is generally exhibited during the temple festival at Cherthala, Ambalapuzha and Thiruvananthapuram. If you want more thrilling martial art forms, then go for Valeru (sword throwing), Kunderu and Njaninmel Kali (tightrope walking). It's actually fun watching these fighting styles on several occasions and festivals. Kerala has kept its tradition alive in the heart and mind of people around the world through these art forms with full zeal and enthusiasm.
Elephant Festival Kerala
Filled with heart-rippling enjoyment, the Elephant Festival of Kerala is worth a visit. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this festival offers a wonderful experience to the visitors. Besides Kerala beaches, backwaters and natural beauty, Elephant Festival is an event which attracts a lot of tourists. This festival is popularly known as ‘Thissur Pooram’. The term “Pooram” literally means a group or a meeting. According to folklores heavenly deities meet for a day on this festival. The sight of adorned elephants is truly a treat for eyes. Small elephant processions are the main highlights of the festival. The processions are marked by carrying the idols of the deity from various temples in different villages of Thrissur. The processions end at Vadakkunnathan Temple. Three priests sit on each of the elephants during the procession. Firework is another exciting attraction of this festival. The children enjoy this part of the festival the most.Elephant Festival stretches for seven days and is celebrated in the month of April/May. No other festival in Kerala attracts as many visitors as this festival does. It is believed that this festival was celebrated for the first time in the late 18th century by Sakthan, the erstwhile king of Cochin. The term “Pooram” literally means a group or a meeting. According to folklores heavenly deities meet for a day on this festival.
Kerala Boat Race
The boat races in Kerala will surely push your adrenaline level into high gear. The mesmerizing backwaters of the state play the role of the perfect host for the annual event–boat race. Occupying a prized place on the calender of Kerala, Boat Race festival is very popular among Keralites. Surcharged with thrill and excitement this festival attracts tourists from far and wide. Showing a great deal of team spirit, the boat races leave the onlookers spell bound.The people gathered to see the delightful boat race cheer up the participants, lay bets and encourage the boatmen to row as fast as possible. This heightens the enthusiasm of the participants who fight with all their might to win the race. The scene of boats racing through the waters on the rhythm of drums and cymbals is simply picturesque. The boats used for the race are popularly known as snake boats as they are designed to resemble a snake. They are 30 to 60 m in length with cone shaped helms tapering several metres above the water. The boat can accommodate around 120 boatmen.
The Pamba River in the Kuttanad region comes alive with boat races with the arrival of the famous harvest festival Onam. Celebrated with great joy and passion the Onam festival becomes more exciting with the boat races. The Champakulam Moolam Boat Race hosted at the Champakulam Lake is an admirable event. It is associated with the Shree Krishna Temple at Ambalappuzha. Another popular boat race event is the Nehru Trophy Boat Race which is held at Alappuzha on the Punnamada Lake on 14th August every year.
On you tour to Kerala if you get a chance to see any of these events, then don't let this opportunity slip from your hands. Boat races are truly high on entertainment quotient!
Kerala Backwater Cruises
Have you ever travelled from one island to another on a houseboat? Have you ever visited backwater villages and sampled the lifestyle of villagers? Have you ever explored marine life through a boat? Kerala provides you with an opportunity to experience wonderful relaxing holidays on its backwaters. Kerala backwaters are included among the 1001 attractions of the world !!Kerala backwaters is fed by 44 rivers, divided into small lakes, lagoons and canals. Cities like Ernakulam, Kumarakom, Kollam and Kottayam for a base. While floating along the backwaters of the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, you can see a number of Siberian Storks, Egrets, Herons, Darters and Kingfishers. Several ornithologists choose this spot for backwater cruising to see unique migratory birds. You can also visit Alleppey, Vembanad Lake for an enchanting experience. Here, on a boat journey, you can witness a unique farming system which is done below sea level. Backwater cruise also offers you the pleasant view of the local people who are busy in carrying out their traditional occupations, such as farming and fishing on the fertile banks of the backwaters.
Houseboats (Kettuvellams) are considered best for holidaying on the backwaters. These boats were traditionally used to transport rice and other grains. As backwater tourism evolved with time, these boats were converted into luxurious boats for tourists. Today, these boats are equipped with all the amenities like bedrooms, A/C, Bathrooms, small Kitchen etc. You may need to book the houseboat in advance, or ask your guide for the same, as there is always a high demand of them. These backwaters comprise of a totally unique ecosystem. The freshwater from the rivers when meets the seawater from the Arabian Sea, it offers a different kind of vegetation. Backwaters are the habitat for mudskippers, frogs, crabs, turtles and otters.
While crossing Kannur district in North Kerala, on your Kettuvellam, you can see the villagers performing Theyyam, a popular traditional & ritual dance. At Punnathur Kotta in Guruvayur, you can see elephants playing on the banks of backwaters. Kerala becomes alive during Onam festival (August-September), widely popular for the snake boat races. The backwaters are fully packed with snake boats during the ten days of this festival.
While on a backwater cruise, you can also go spice shopping at Kumily, tea shopping, Kasargod saris and pottery from Nilambur. Houseboats are the best options to stay in, otherwise you can choose from a wide range of hotels. A variety of fish, crabs, prawns and other sea food items along with traditional & spicy Keralite dishes are served on the houseboats.
Source : keralaindiavacation.com
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