The small state of Kerala, which represents just 1% of the
land mass, is considered to be one of India’s most
beautiful. It is a very rural state with most of the
population living in villages but is culturally and
scenically diverse. Kerala has two national parks, ten
wildlife sanctuaries and two bird sanctuaries.
Kerala occupies a long (550km), narrow strip of land in the
far south of India. Its coast line is on the Arabian Sea
(part of the Indian Ocean) and its eastern border with the
neighbouring state of Tamil Nadu is the top of the majestic
Western Ghat mountains. The landscape varies from long
golden beaches to cool hill stations and dense green jungle
to bustling cities. Its unique feature is the network of
palm fringed backwaters.
The people of Kerala (known as Keralites) are warm and
friendly and interaction with them is often a highlight of a
holiday to Kerala. Keralites have a strong culture and are
fiercely proud of their state. Some of their art forms (eg
Kathakali and Theyyam) and marshal arts (kalaripayattu) are
unique.
There are three main cities. The state capital of Trivandrum
(Thiruvananthapuram) is in the south, Cochin (Kochi) in the
centre and Calicut (Kozhikode) to the north. All three have
an airport, which means that the whole of Kerala is
reasonably accessible. However, as in the rest of India,
most of the roads are of poor quality and therefore travel
can be quite slow
If you’ve never visited India before, Kerala is a wonderful
introduction. If you have visited other parts of India and
liked it then we are sure you will love Kerala.
WILDLIFE AND ADVENTURE
We are pleased to offer another seven night wildlife tour
this season. This tour includes Thattekkad (two nights),
Munnar (two nights), Chinnar (one night), Parambikulam (two
nights). A wide range of ecosystems and species are found in
this region including most of the Western Ghats’ 16 endemic
birds and endemic mammals including the rare lion tailed
macaque.
Other new activities include a Lowland Forest Trek (two
nights), a three night Kayaking itinerary and some new
cycling routes including a one day trip from Periyar to
Vagamon. |
