9 Best Places to Visit in Trivandrum

Kerala is one of the most beautiful places in India. The geographical diversity and the variety of natural landscapes that Kerala offers, is not present in any other part of the country. To be true, it is a single state that offers all the varieties of natural beauty that probably an entire country cannot offer.

From mountains to sea beaches, from plainlands to hill stations, from rivers to backwaters, you will get everything in Kerala in a single trip. In fact, it would not be an exaggeration to say that your vacation or holidays will fall short, but the places to visit and things to do when in Kerala, would not come to an end. When you are planning to visit Kerala, make sure that you reserve a good deal of your time for the capital city Trivandrum, traditionally known as Thiruvananthapuram.

Here is a list of the 9 best places to visit in Trivandrum.

1. Padmanabhaswamy Temple:

The most significant place to visit in Trivandrum is the Padmanabhaswamy Temple. This temple is a great exhibit of Dravidian architecture. The ambience and atmosphere inside the temple is truly beautiful.

2. Kovalam Beach:

Not very far from the Trivandrum city is the Kovalam Beach. This is one of the most popular beaches in the state of Kerala and it must be there in your Kerala tour packages. With the stunning view of the Arabian Sea, the soft waves and the coconut fringed coast line, the Kovalam Beach is a must visit. You can go for a day trip or also choose a resort stay for as long as you want.

Also Check: Best Places to Visit in Kovalam

3. Padmanabhapuram Palace:

When you are in Kerala, it is very important that you encounter a traditional, Kerala style architecture. The Padmanabhapuram Palace offers some stunning mural paintings, painted ceilings, coloured mica windows and a huge mahogany musical bow. If you have love for history, this is the place for you.

4. Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary and Dam:

Throughout the state of Kerala, from the north to south, the Western Ghat Mountains can be found. On the Neyyar River, there is a dam and a wildlife sanctuary. You will be able to encounter a wide variety of flora and fauna here. The best part is that this place is not too far from the city.

5. Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre:

Although a little unusual, this is one of the most interesting places to visit in Kerala, near Trivandrum that you should visit. However, in order to visit this place and to encounter the various space programs conducted by this space centre in India, you need to get permission and collect your passes from the PR centre.

6. Anchuthengu Fort:

This place was built in the year 1695 by the British. The place for the fort was gifted by Queen of Attingal at that time, to the British. The British used this fort for signalling their ships that came from London. Though this place is not in use anymore, it is a very beautiful and tranquil place, perfect for a small picnic.

7. Vizhinjam:

This is an ancient sea port that is not too far from the city of Trivandrum. Once this port was used for trading purpose, now it is a great place to encounter some amazing marine life including piranhas, turtles and squirrelfish etc. The beauty of the place is absolutely different that cannot be explained through words.

8. Veli Tourist Village:

Almost all the people who visit Trivandrum try to visit the cute, beautiful and relaxing tourist village of Veli. From floating restaurants to paddle boats, there are many leisurely activity options that you can enjoy doing here with your near and dear ones.

9. Poovar Island:

If you are looking for some real luxury and comfort, Poovar Island must be in your itinerary. This is the place where river meets with the sea. You will get a perfect combination of traditional lifestyle with modern hospitality in the village here. This is one amongst the many popular honeymoon destinations in Kerala along with Kovalam Beach.

When you plan for your Kerala trip, it is important that you know about the places of interest in this state. This will help you to plan your itinerary accordingly.

Also Read:

7 Natural and Geographical Wonders of Kerala

10 Best Places to Visit in Poovar

9 Important Tourist Places to Visit in Thekkady

Thekkady is a place in Kerala which is crammed with tropical forests, plant and animal life, sanctuary, dam, temple, tea plantation, and much more that will surely grab the attention of the tourists. If you are making a list of places to visit in Kerala, then keep Thekkady in the top of your list. This is a favourite place for the adventure lovers because you can find many exhilarating activities here.

Let’s check 9 important tourist places to visit in Thekkady that every traveller should visit.

1. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: This is the largest wildlife sanctuary in India. Home to elephants, tigers, leopards, bison, sambar deer, boars and many more endangered species of wildlife, the sanctuary is sure to make your visit very memorable. The entry ticket is Rs. 25 for the Indians and Rs. 300 for foreigners.
2. Murikkady: Murikkady is the spice capital of Thekkady and it is situated near about 5 km away from Thekkady. Though this place is famous for spices, still it is also known for coffee and cardamom gardening. This place cultivates more than twelve varieties of spices including clove, ginger, turmeric, vanilla and tea.
3. Kadathanadan Kalari Centre: Kadathanadan Kalari Centre is a major Kalari fight centre located in Thekkady. Kadathanadan Kalari Centre is the place where you can get a first-hand experience of the renowned art. The complete name of the art practised here is Kalaripayattu, which is more of a traditional martial arts form of self-defence. There is a gallery for the visitors from where you can watch this art form. The gallery is built keeping in mind the safety of the viewers. The entry fee is Rs. 200/- per person.
4. Periyar lake: This is another famous tourist spot which is located near Periyar National Reserves. Here, you can go for boating and can get a chance to explore this place in a better way. If you are lucky enough, then you can see herds of elephants bathing on the lakeside. The cost for boating is Rs.150 from KTDC.
5. Mangla Devi temple: This temple is located 15 km away from Thekkady. This temple is popular among the locals and travellers for its ancient Pandian type architecture. This temple is one of the oldest temples of the region as it is said to be 2000 years old dedicated to Kannagi or Mangaladevi. Prayers are conducted only once in a year on a full moon day in between the month of April and May. This is an ideal place for the tourists who are looking for a tranquil place with pristine ambience.
6. Kumily: This is a small village which is located just 4 km away from Thekkady. This place is far away from the bustling crowd of the city. Kumily is extremely popular among the tourists for spice and tea plantations.
7. Chellarkovil: This quaint village in Thekkady has started gaining popularity among the tourists because of its unparalleled natural beauty and serenity. This place is thronged with the waterfalls, green plains and coconut groves. The glistening light of the sun reflected on the gushing waterfalls is something that will make you crazy for this place.
8. Pandikuzhi: This place is situated 10 km away from the region of Idukki which is near to the Tamil Nadu state border. This place is crammed with beautiful picturesque, exotic flora, and fauna. This is a delightful spot for trekking and picnicking.
9. Ramakkalmedu: The silent town of Ramakkalmedu is located 16 km away from Nedumkandam. Located alongside the Thekkady-Munnar road, Ramakkalmedu lies in the mountain region on the border of Tamil Nadu. Some popular attractions in the region of Ramakkalmedu are Turtle rock, Frog rock and twin statue by the name of Kuravan and Kurathi.   

The above, we mentioned some of the popular and applauded places to visit in Thekkady. When you are looking for the best Kerala tour packages from your tour operator, tell them to include the name of Thekkady in the list of places to visit in Kerala.

7 Top Things to Know before Book a Houseboat for Alleppey Backwaters

No trip to Kerala is complete without visiting the backwaters of Kerala; Alleppey Backwaters being one of the best among them. From the Vembanad Lake to the mouth of the backwaters where the lagoons meet the Arabian Sea, a ride by the houseboats in Alleppey. A long and lazy boat ride that will take you to the heart of the backwaters is something that makes the trip worth cherishing for long.

The Backwaters of Alleppey is one of the most beautiful, stunning and awe striking places not only in India, but also all across the globe. No wonder why Alleppey receives so many of foreign and native travellers every year. The lagoons and the labyrinthine water channels, with the paddy fields covering the banks and the coconut palms that mirror on the calm water of the backwaters will mesmerize you during your trip to Kerala. But, before you book your stay in Alleppey, you should know about a few things.

1. Houseboat Packages:

When you book a houseboats in Alleppey, you should know about the packages that they offer. Different houseboat owners or companies offer different packages. The honeymoon packages in Kerala houseboat are meant for honeymoon couples, while some are meant for corporate parties, some for shared accommodation and some for families or personal stay. Whatever package you choose, the rates and services will differ accordingly.

2. Décor of the Houseboats:

Though you will get a number of options while choosing a houseboat in Alleppey, make sure the décor suits your demands. The Kerala houseboats are extremely beautiful with traditional designs and stunning décor. But, the more elaborate the décor is, the higher will be the prices.

3. Number of Rooms:

The houseboats in Kerala come with different accommodation options. They are quite huge in general, offering a number of rooms inside. Depending on the number of people in your group, you can choose the number of rooms you need. The more rooms you book, the more you will have to pay. Sometimes, booking an entire houseboat will have its own charge. If you want to minimize the budget, you can share the rooms with other families as well.

4. Staff on Board:

Since you would spend a lot of time with the boat staff in front of you, it is important that you choose a good staff, with nice and warm behaviour. The way you are treated on board, has a deep impact on your overall experience. Rude and careless houseboat staff can spoil your mood and stay on board.

5. Food you are Served:

One of the major attractions of the luxury houseboats in Alleppey is the food. They serve the freshest of the local cuisine. You can savour the most amazing local delicacies on board, with snacks and fruits supplied for the entire day. As you go on board, you get a welcome drink and this is a uniform hospitality that you can expect to receive. However, if you are more comfortable with western style breakfast, you can certainly request for that. But, trying the local food is indeed a great idea.

6. Itineraries:

When you ride the Alleppey houseboats, you will be mesmerized with the stunning beauty of the neighbouring flora on the banks of the backwaters. The boat will take you to the places that are included in your package. However, once the sun sets, the boat will be parked for the night and move again the morning. Be assured that you reach on time to get on board, in order to utilize the full daylight, usually the boats leave somewhere around noon. Also, some boats have air conditioning system included in the package and some do not. Choose the package accordingly.

7. Booking the Houseboat:

Booking the Alleppey houseboats is the most important part. You should book in advance if you are booking for the peak travel seasons. Otherwise, it is better to book when you reach Alleppey. You can certainly book through online platforms or ask the resorts that you will be staying with before or after staying in Alleppey.

So this holiday season go ahead and plan a trip across the backwaters of Alleppey, before the onset of monsoon season and enjoy a totally mesmerizing vacation in laps of nature’s real beauty. But before you make up your mind to book a houseboat, do not forget to consider few things like, the kind of houseboat and packages, itineraries, the food, number of rooms required, etc.  that are critical which will help in making your vacation not just memorable, but also worthy and leave you with quality time spent well.

Top 5 things to know about Alleppey houseboat for couple

Alleppey or the Venice of East is one of the applauded and popular travel destination in Kerala specially for the newly wedded couples who want to enjoy their honeymoon enthusiastically. Backwater cruise in Alleppey is the best way which will take you far away from the noise of the city so that you can enjoy and spend some cozy time with your partner. Many travel and tour operators offer Alleppey honeymoon packages in order to entice the couples. Here, we are mentioning top 5 things to know about Alleppey houseboat for couples.

1. Book in advance: 

It is always better to book a houseboat in Alleppey in advance to enjoy your honeymoon in a hassle-free way. Many couples think that spot booking is the best option because they will get the best rates but that is not correct. Because the availability of the houseboats is the major issue if you go for a spot booking. Moreover, you may need to compromise with the quality of the boat or need to wait in a queue until your turns will come. So, it would be a prudent decision for you if you go for online booking in advance. Many tour operators or luxury resorts have their own sites where they will give you some lucrative Alleppey houseboat packages for advance booking.

2. Select the proper houseboat: 

Once you will search for houseboat in Alleppey, you will get numerous options. Depending on your budget and tour plan, you can take 1 night cruise or 2 nights cruise plan. There is also day cruise for the couples who have short of time. Day cruise usually operates from 9 a.m to 6 p.m. The check-in for night cruise is at 12 and the check out time is 9 a.m in the next morning. But houseboats don’t roam at night, so if you go for the night cruise, after 6 p.m your boat will be parked at the fixed parking place. There are different types of houseboats like luxury, deluxe, and super deluxe. Depending on your budget you can choose any of them.

3. Choose the best route: 

You also need to choose your route wisely like your houseboat. There are many routes but most people depart from Alleppey and then they used to do a round trip through the backwater area. You can also go for one-way trips like Alleppey to Kuttanad, Alleppey to Kumarakom, Alleppey to Kottayam, and Alleppey to Alumkadavu. If you want to enjoy your honeymoon wholeheartedly, choose the best route which will give you some astounding sceneries and a chunk of memory.

4. Go for a boat which has an upstairs deck: 

Try to go for a double-decker boat which has a beautiful upstairs deck. An upstairs deck will provide you to spend some cozy time with your partner. Moreovder, you can get separated from the staff who are at downstairs.

5. Best time to book the houseboat: 

From December to January is the best time to visit Alleppey. But during this period you must go for advance booking else you will not get any houseboat. In monsoon, you can bag some great discounts and offers from the tour operators. During the summer (from March to May), the weather is extremely hot, so try to avoid this time. If you want to visit during summer, then go for an A/C boat.

What are you waiting for? Contact your nearest tour operators and ask for the best rate for Kerala tour packages.

Alleppey Packages From Bangalore

The charming and captivating Alleppey backwater has many things for the tourists specially for the honeymoon couples and thus, it is considered as one of the most popular honeymoon destinations in Kerala. The serenity of Alleppey backwater offers lovebirds a dream escape away from the hustle bustle of the city, where they can spend unforgettable romantic moments with their soulmate.

Alleppey is an enchanting backwater lake in Kerala and is popularly known as “Venice of the East”. The houseboat riding is one of the favourite activities if you are a honeymoon couple. The lush and serene scenes mesmerize you at this main backwater zone lined with coconut palms bending in the edges.

There is nothing more enthralling than a chance to cruise the Alleppey backwaters using a houseboat. There are both the day and night cruises, so you can choose any of them. Both cruises have their own charm and beauty. The Alleppey houseboat cruise will take you across a thread of beautiful memories that will never sink into oblivion and will certainly make your vacation more memorable.

Are you looking for Alleppey tour packages from Bangalore? If you are looking for Alleppey houseboat packages from Bangalore and want to spend some cozy time with your family, then plan your trip from August to March. During this time, you will certainly enjoy your tour because the weather will be so pleasant and comfortable.

Tours In India will give you the best packages for your Alleppey tour from Bangalore. Every customer is unique and thus, they will provide you with a complete customized package so that you can enjoy your Alleppey tour in a complete privacy.

They will give you the best houseboats which are fully furnished and decorated with various items. There are 1 bedroom, 2 bedrooms, 3 bedrooms, and 4 bedrooms houseboats. So, depending on your budget and family members, you can choose any of them. The check-in time for the houseboat is 12 p.m and the check-out time is 9 a.m in the next morning. They will welcome the guests with a tasty welcome drink and the food items that are going to be served in the houseboat are simply mouth-watering and tasty.

This tour operator has a team of local guides who will help you to better understand the culture of Kerala so that you can enjoy your tour wholeheartedly. So, if you are looking for the best Alleppey tour packages from Bangalore, then contact Tours in India as early as possible for the best rate.

Tours in India - an Illustrious Houseboat Tour Operator in Kerala

Are you gearing up for your next tour? Why don’t you consider Alleppey backwater and enjoy the cruise ride on a houseboat? Alleppey is known as “Venice of East” and houseboats are the core attraction for the travellers which are simply astounding. On the serene backwaters of Alleppey, the best way to explore the lake is to glide or sail through the waters on some of the best and luxury houseboats in Alleppey. The picturesque of water is so alluring that you love to visit the place again and again.

There are many service providers who embrace the customers with Alleppey houseboats. If you are unable to select the best tour operators, then you must take a help from your relatives, friends, and acquaintances who have taken the services from these kerala tour operators.

Tours In India: Tours in India is an eminent houseboat tour operator in Alleppey which provides luxury, deluxe, and honeymoon class houseboats to the travellers. They provide 2BHK luxury houseboats in Alleppey where the customers will get the highest level of comfort and facilities. The check-in time is 12 p.m and the check-out time is next day 9 a.m. They also provide separate Alleppey honeymoon packages to the couples so that they can spend some cozy time with each other.

Every honeymoon couple needs some space and tranquillity and Tours in India used to embrace the honeymoon couple with the best honeymoon packages in Kerala houseboat. Their Alleppey honeymoon packages are ideal for the honeymoon couples as it is in a distant, secure, and no man area and has all the features and facilities that a honeymoon couple used to look for. All the luxury houseboats in Alleppey provide both vegetarian and non-vegetarian food items to the couples as per their choice. The cooks are highly trained and professional and can produce various scrumptious dishes in a hygienic way. If you want to watch some traditional dance performance in your Alleppey houseboat tour, then they can also arrange some cultural performances like Kathakali, Ottanthullal, etc. for you. All these will certainly make your honeymoon more enjoyable and classy.

Apart from Alleppey, they also provide other Kerala tour packages like Kumarakom houseboat packages, Kottam houseboat packages, etc. Their Kumarakom backwater tours are an awesome and exhilarating experience for any tourist. They provide the best and unique Kumarakom houseboat tours with a special touch. If you want to enjoy the best experiences in the houseboat, then you must book it in advance. You can choose various Kerala tour packages from their itinerary and the get a customized price for your favorite tour. Along with Kerala backwater tours, they also provide sightseeing tours, trekking, and other adventurous trips in Kerala.

Tours In India is not only ideal for honeymoon couples, they also provide family tours, corporate trips in Kerala, festival trips, etc. at a reasonable price. So, if you want to explore Kerala utterly, then check Tours in India’s website and choose the best Kerala tour package as per your budget and availability.

Top 9 things to Consider Before you go for an Alleppey Houseboat Trip

India has got its own paradise. Yes, The God’s Own Country is the thing which is being talked about. Kerala has its own beauty and throughout the year it attracts many tourists who come to witness its timeless beauty. It's calm and peaceful environment is loved by all and the people in Kerala are helpful too. So, if anyone is going on a Kerala trip, one must visit Alleppey, which is also known as India’s own Venice. Alleppey is known for its beautiful backwaters. These backwaters are usually the water systems which are connected by canals and rivers.

Kerala, the abode of nature, a state rich in culture, is also visited by an immense number of tourists. Its exceptional natural beauty and serene environment attract the tourist with ease.  One of the in numerous attractions of this beautiful state is the Houseboats which draw in tourists from all around the world. The Houseboats are most suited medium of exploring the backwaters of Kerala. The backwaters of Kerala are freshwater systems of interconnected canals, rivers, lakes and inlets, which run beyond 900 km.

One of the most visited backwaters are the ones of Alleppey which is also called the “Venice of the East”. The Alleppey Houseboat trip is one of the most anticipating attractions, without which no one’s tour of India cannot be completed. This unique experience in the tranquil nature leaves the visitors in awe and placid. Here are few things to consider before planning an Alleppey Houseboat trip.

It’s a must experience thing if someone is in Alleppey. Yes, The Alleppey houseboat trip is one amazing thing to do. Basically, you have to book it before handed. But after the Alleppey Houseboat trip, one would never forget this experience ever in their life. Here are some of the things one should keep in mind while traveling in a Houseboat trip along the backwaters of Alleppey.

Routes available for cruising

Alleppey Houseboat trips are usually round trips. The type of route you choose for your trip determines the rate of your trip. The circle route is the one from Alleppey to Alleppey. There is then the Alleppey Kumarakom/ Kottayam Trip and also, there are special trips/routes available which one can choose according to their own needs.

Cruise time

After boarding the houseboats the cruising time begins, once cruising starts and stops for the while the boarders are taking their meals. All cruising is done in the morning after the daylight subsides, no cruising is done and the houseboats are docked at the banks of the backwaters.

The cruising of the houseboat is done only in the morning and after sunset, the houseboat is neatly decked up to the banks of the Alleppey backwaters. The cruise stops once or twice when the people have to eat in the daytime.

Best time to visit

Before planning any vacation, one does consider the best time to visit the desired place. Therefore, before planning a trip to the Alleppey backwaters it sounds like an obvious query to know the best time to visit and hire the houseboats. Being a tropic region with a humid and wet climate, it is best advised to avoid planning a trip during the Monsoons. But to enjoy this serene place in its highest greenery and also if, increased humidity is least of your concern then, Monsoons will serve as the best times to visit. All other times, the weather will be good.

Also get details of places to be visited in the month of December.

The time between December and January is going to be the coolest so that is supposed to be the best time to visit but if you wish to escape the heat of the other states then from March to May, the houseboat trips will be soothing.

Just like any other state, each state has the best season to visit so that they can showcase the best of the beauty. But, when one visits Kerala the best time to see its vivid beauty is in monsoons. Though it is beautiful throughout the year, the best of its beauty can be seen only during monsoons. It is simply fantastic. As said, the December to January timing is also an optimum time to visit Alleppey as the weather remains generally cool and chilly. Those who want to escape the heat can always try the March Houseboat adventures.

Alleppey Houseboat rates

The Alleppey Houseboat rates depend on the type of class the travelers choose for themselves and also the type of route they choose. The circle tours are more expensive. These houseboats can range between Rs.7000 to Rs.29000. The Alappuzha Houseboat rates for one day for the First Class Travellers range between Rs.12000 to Rs.28000, the Alappuzha Houseboat rates for one day for the Deluxe Class Travellers range from Rs.8000 to Rs. 22000 and the Alappuzha Houseboat rates for one day for the Budget Class Travellers range from Rs.7000 to Rs.21000 including your choice for air-conditioning. You have different packages and some of them are three bedrooms with 6 pox and with 3 meals. All the tariffs are only for one day and a night trip.

Alleppey Houseboat packages

The Alleppey Houseboat packages offer the visitors to choose from three class tiers: the First Class Traveller, the Deluxe Class Traveller, and the Budget Class Traveller. These packages also depend on the kind of routes you take which can be chosen from the three types available: the Alleppey Circle Trip (ACT), the Alleppey Kumarakom/ Kottayam Trip (AKT) and the Special Trips (SPT). The visitors can choose their desired route and the class according to their needs. Each class offers all the three routes. There are three types of packages that the Alleppey Houseboat Trips offer. The Alleppey Houseboats packages are the D-ACT/AKT/SPT 1 which includes one bedroom for 2 passengers and 3 meals, the D-ACT/AKT/SPT2 which includes two bedrooms for 4 passengers and 3 meals and the D-ACT/AKT/SPT 3 which includes three bedrooms for 6 passengers and 3 meals.

Alappuzha Houseboat check-in and check-out times

The check-in and check-out times depend upon the operator of the houseboats that one hires but the check-ins usually happen after 12 p.m. and check-outs occur at 9 a.m.

Alleppey houseboat booking

The Alleppey Houseboat booking can be done online. It is best advised to get the bookings done in advance to avoid any last moment cancellation. The payments can be done through online bank transfers, by Credit cards or by directly depositing the amount to their bank accounts. If necessary, immediate booking payments can be done through Western Union/UAE Exchange.

The Alleppey House boating Trip can be booked online by logging into various travel companies who offer the beautiful Houseboat trip around Alleppey. The payment can be done by credit card or through NEFT.

One has to Make sure they book their houseboat trip before handed so that they remain free of hassles at the last moment. The trips are usually round trips so one has to basically book round trips. They can book the Houseboat trip for different trips like for some special trips or the one full circle of Alleppey trip. It all depends on one’s comfort and convenience.

Food availability

The local cuisine of the area is ardently delicious and the Alleppey Houseboat packages include the meals. So, if one wants then they can enjoy the local cuisine or may request at the time of booking if there are any special cuisine request.

Other services available

There are many fun things to enjoy during the houseboat trip one of them can be to the audience the boat races which are well known and also, nearby village trips do add on.

Also read on and get information about some of the very less known tourist destinations in Kerala.

The best way to enjoy vacations is definitely to go and sit in the calm lap of nature and ditch all the worries for at least once and for which the Alleppey Houseboat Trip is the best for.