TRAVELL

 30 Best Travel Tips After 4 Years Traveling The World

1. Patience Is Important

Don’t sweat the stuff you can’t control. Life is much too short to be angry & annoyed all the time. Did you miss your bus? No worries, there will be another one. ATMs out of money? Great! Take an unplanned road trip over to the next town and explore. Sometimes freakouts happen regardless.
Just take a deep breath and remind yourself that it could be worse.

2. Wake Up Early

Rise at sunrise to have the best attractions all to yourself while avoiding crowds. It’s also a magical time for photos due to soft diffused light, and usually easier to interact with locals. Sketchy areas are less dangerous in the morning too. Honest hardworking people wake up early; touts, scammers, and criminals sleep in.

 

3. Laugh At Yourself

You will definitely look like a fool many times when traveling to new places. Rather than get embarrassed, laugh at yourself. Don’t be afraid to screw up, and don’t take life so seriously.
Once a whole bus full of Guatemalans laughed with glee when I forced our driver to stop so I could urgently pee on the side of the road. Returning to the bus and laughing with them gave me new friends for the rest of the journey.

4. Stash Extra Cash

Cash is king around the world. To cover your ass in an emergency, make sure to stash some in a few different places. I recommend at least a couple hundred dollars worth. If you lose your wallet, your card stops working, or the ATMs run out of money, you’ll be glad you did.

Some of my favorite stash spots include socks, under shoe inserts, a toiletry bag, around the frame of a backpack, even sewn behind a patch on your bag.

5. Meet Local People

Make it a point to avoid other travelers from time to time and start conversations with local people. Basic English is spoken widely all over the world, so it’s easier to communicate with them than you might think, especially when you combine hand gestures and body language.
Learn from those who live in the country you’re visiting. People enrich your travels more than sights do.

6. Pack A Scarf

I happen to use a shemagh, but sarongs also work great. This simple piece of cotton cloth is one of my most useful travel accessories with many different practical applications. It’s great for sun protection, a makeshift towel, carrying stuff around, an eye mask, and much more.
I can’t tell you how many times a scarf has come in handy around the world

7. Observe Daily Life

If you really want to get a feel for the pulse of a place, I recommend spending a few hours sitting in a park or on a busy street corner by yourself just watching day to day life happen in front of you.
Slow down your thoughts and pay close attention to the details around you. The smells, the colors, human interactions, and sounds. It’s a kind of meditation — and you’ll see stuff you never noticed before.

8. Back Everything Up

When my laptop computer was stolen in Panama, having most of my important documents and photos backed up saved my ass. Keep both digital and physical copies of your passport, visas, driver’s license, birth certificate, health insurance card, serial numbers, and important phone numbers ready to go in case of an emergency.
Backup your files & photos on an external hard drive as well as online with software like Backblaze

9. Take Lots Of Photos

You may only see these places & meet these people once in your lifetime. Remember them forever with plenty of photos. Don’t worry about looking like a “tourist”. Are you traveling to look cool? No one cares. Great photos are the ultimate souvenir.
They don’t cost anything, they’re easy to share with others, and they don’t take up space in your luggage. Just remember once you have your shot to get out from behind the lens and enjoy the view.

10. There’s Always A Way

Nothing is impossible. If you are having trouble going somewhere or doing something, don’t give up. You just haven’t found the best solution or met the right person yet. Don’t listen to those who say it can’t be done.
Perseverance pays off. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been told what I want isn’t possible, only to prove it wrong later when I don’t listen to the advice and try anyway.

11. Smile & Say Hello

Having trouble interacting with locals? Do people seem unfriendly? Maybe it’s your body language. One of my best travel tips is to make eye contact and smile as you walk by. If they smile back, say hello in the local language too. This is a fast way to make new friends.
You can’t expect everyone to just walk around with a big stupid grin on their face. That’s your job. Usually all it takes is for you to initiate contact and they’ll open up.

12. Splurge A Bit

I’m a huge fan of budget travel, as it allows you to travel longer and actually experience more of the fascinating world we live in rather than waste your hard-earned money on stuff you don’t need. In fact you can travel many places for $50 a day with no problems.
That said, living on a shoestring gets old after a while. It’s nice (and healthy) to go over your budget occasionally. Book a few days at a nice hotel, eat out at a fancy restaurant, or spend a wild night on the town.

13. Keep An Open Mind

Don’t judge the lifestyles of others if different from your own. Listen to opinions you don’t agree with. It’s arrogant to assume your views are correct and other people are wrong. Practice empathy and put yourself in someone else’s shoes.
Embrace different possibilities, opportunities, people, suggestions and interests. Ask questions. You don’t have to agree, but you may be surprised what you’ll learn.

14. Try Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing.org is a large online community of travelers who share their spare rooms or couches with strangers for free. If you truly want to experience a country and it’s people, staying with a local is the way to go.
There are millions of couchsurfers around the world willing to host you and provide recommendations. It’s fun and safe too. Expensive hotels are not the only option, there are all kinds of cheap travel accommodation options out there.

15. Volunteer Occasionally

Make it a point to volunteer some of your time for worthwhile projects when traveling. Not only is it a very rewarding experience, but you’ll often learn more about the country and its people while also making new friends.
There’s a great site called Grassroots Volunteering where you can search for highly recommended volunteer opportunities around the world.

16. Pack Ear Plugs

This should actually be #1 on the list. I love my earplugs! Muffle the sounds of crying babies, drunk Australians, barking dogs, honking horns, dormitory sex, natural gas salesmen, and more. A traveler’s best friend. These are my favorite earplugs for comfort & effectiveness.

17. Don’t Be Afraid

The world is not nearly as dangerous as the media makes it out to be. Keep an eye out for sketchy situations but don’t let that be the focus of your whole trip. Use common sense and you’ll be ok. Most people are friendly, trustworthy, generous, and willing to help you out.
This goes for women too. I realize I’m not a woman, but I’ve met plenty of experienced female travelers who agree.

18. Get Lost On Purpose

If you want to see the parts of town where real people live & work, you need to go visit them. The best way to do this is on foot — without knowing exactly where you’re going. Write down the name of your hotel so you can catch a taxi back if needed, then just pick a direction and start walking.
Don’t worry too much about stumbling into dangerous neighborhoods either, as locals will generally warn you before you get that far.

19. Eat Local Food

Think you already know what Mexican food tastes like? You’re probably wrong. Taste a bit of everything when you travel, especially if you don’t know what it is. Ask local people for recommendations. Eat street food from vendors with big lines out front.
I’ve been very sick only twice in my travels. Don’t be scared of the food.

20. Say Yes Often

Be impulsive and say yes when someone randomly invites you to meet their family, try a new activity, or explore a place you didn’t know existed. It’s these unexpected and unplanned situations that add spice to your travels and always turn into the best stories later.
Accept the kindness of strangers when you travel — you’ll have plenty of opportunities.

21. Slow Down

Please don’t try to cram 6 countries into 6 weeks of travel. All the good stuff happens when you really take the time to explore. You’ll learn about activities that aren’t in your guidebook and meet people who are eager to show you around.
I can honestly say that NONE of my best travel experiences happened within the first few days of arriving somewhere. Spend more time in fewer places for maximum enjoyment.

22. Keep Good Notes

My memory for details sucks. When I first started traveling the world 4 years ago, I didn’t keep a good journal, and now I’m regretting it. Information like the names of people I met, conversations I had, feelings about a new experience, or what a particular town smelled like.
If you ever want to write about your travels, these details are handy. These days I use an incredible note-taking app called Evernote, which I use as my 2nd brain. So useful for all kinds of applications — from planning trips to journaling about them later.

23. Break Out Of Your Comfort Zone

Challenge yourself to try things that normally give you anxiety. The more you do this, the more that anxiety will fade away. Not a hiker? Go on more hikes. Have trouble talking to strangers? Talk to everyone. Scared of weird food? Eat the weirdest thing you can find.
The reason this works so well while traveling is because everything is already so different, what’s one more new/uncomfortable experience?

24. Don’t Plan Too Much

I cringe when readers ask how many days they should spend in a particular country or city. The truth is I have no idea what you’ll enjoy or who you’ll meet. I thought I’d rocket through Nicaragua in a week or two, but ended up living there for 4 months.
My advice is to pick a starting point, 1 or 2 must-do activities, and an ending point (or not). Then just let the universe determine the rest

25. Pack Less Stuff

You don’t need 1/2 the gear you think you do to travel anywhere. We’ve all done it. It’s a right of passage for travelers to slowly become better at packing less. My first backpack was 70 liters packed full, my current bag is only 38 liters.
As a full-time vagabond, everything I own fits on my back. If you’re not sure about packing something, you don’t need it. It’s also possible to buy most things at your destination country if you discover you need them.

26. Listen To Podcasts

Podcasts are awesome. It’s like creating your own personal radio station and filling it with shows and music you always want to listen to. I never thought I’d actually look forward to a 10 hour bus ride. But with podcasts, it’s possible (well, as long as the seats are comfortable).
Time will fly by as you listen to incredible storytelling, fun music, or interviews with experts.

27. Treat Your Body Well

Travel can throw your body out of whack. When you’re moving from place to place it’s difficult to maintain a workout routine, and many of us slack off. Or we don’t sleep enough. Or we eat too many cupcakes. I’m guilty of not flossing my teeth.
Remember to be nice to your body. Get enough sleep, stay hydrated, eat healthy, use sunscreen, and exercise often (check out this bodyweight routine, no gym required!). And, yes, flossing too I guess.

28. Stay In Touch

Remember to call your family & friends from time to time. Maybe surprise them and go old-school by sending a postcard (it’s in the mail, Mom!). Travel isn’t lonely, far from it. You constantly meet other people. But many of those relationships are fleeting. So maintaining a strong connection with the people who know you best is important.

29. Get Off The Beaten Path

I know it’s cliché, but you should still attempt it. Seek out interesting and unusual places that don’t see much tourism. Many memorable travel experiences have happened to me in areas that are not easy to visit. By all means travel to popular sites, but don’t rule out other locations just because they’re not on the tourist trail.
Although please realize that just because an area is remote or dangerous doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll have a life-changing experience.

30. Travel More

If there’s one thing I’ve noticed over the past 4 years, it’s that many people back home love to tell me how lucky I am while making excuses why they can’t travel. It’s too expensive. They can’t get time off work.

JUST TRAVEL MUCH AND MORE TO THE RHYTHM OF LIFE

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DONT MISS the rEAL tASTE

10 Things You Must Eat in Kerala

"The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page." - . I'm not sure when the 'travel bug' bit me but I think it was somewhere between the time I was packed up and relocated to a small town in England and when I decided to renounce my cushy Delhi life for studying in Manipal. I went from a butter chicken and naan loving Punjabi to someone who developed a fondness for the unpredictable and unexplored.

I was hooked. Not to 'luxury travel' but to 'good travel'. One that pulled me out of my comfort zone and put me in a place unknown with people unknown. Not the kind that was featured in glossy travel magazines but the kind that needed to be experienced firsthand.

While in college, I was surrounded by an eclectic mix of intelligent Malyalees who convinced me that I hadn't seen anything till I'd seen god's own country, Kerala. Their argument was so persuasive that a few days later I found myself on an over-night train that took me 650 odd kilometers away to Kannur.

Kannur, formerly known as Cannanore is the Northern most city of Kerala. Its name is derived from two words: 'Kannan' which stands for Lord Krishna and 'ur' which means place, making it the place of Lord Krishna.

Kannur welcomed me with open arms - its coconut palm lined coasts, beachfront restaurants, rustic and  worn-out brown bungalows, high red-bricked walls and its pleasant aroma of the sea. I felt confident that this journey would be a magical one but I wasn't aware that it would be a gastronomical one too.

Kerala, unlike its neighbours Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, takes pride in its wide variety of non-vegetarian food. They've got chicken, mutton, beef, pork and a thrilling variety of seafood - mussels, crab, tiger prawns, king prawns, tiny prawns, oysters, sardines, mackerel, tuna and gorgeous red lobsters. This 'land of spices' has many exquisite foods to showcase but there few ingredients that I found common to most foods - coconut, chopped, grated or shaved, coconut milk or paste used in gravies or as oil for cooking. Chillis, curry leaf, mustard seeds and tamarind also dominate the dishes.

During the wee hours of the day, I stood glaring at a list of breakfast items on a chalk board. My eyes darted from puttu and kadla curry to ghee roast masala dosa to the rest of the items on an inexhaustible list of vegetarian delicacies. They were all priced reasonably from somewhere between Rs.30 to Rs.60 and each dish came straight off the stove and into my lap.

Puttu and Kadala Curry - Puttu is a cylindrical steamed rice cake cooked with coconut shavings and is an extremely popular breakfast dish, not just in Kannur but through other parts of Kerala as well. It's usually served with kadala curry (black chickpeas/kala chana) but can also be relished with ripe bananas and grated coconut.

Appam with Stew - Honestly, appam is a revolutionary food. Not once did I devoid myself of the pleasure of its company. It's got a soft and thick center and a paper thin outside. It's essentially a rice pancake which you can pair with almost anything and it will still steal the spotlight. In a typical Southern stew you'll find chunks of chicken or meat bathed in a  beautifully spiced and dreamy coconut gravy.

Dosa Ghee Roast with Kerala Style Sambar- Dosa is listed among 'World's 50 most delicious foods' and for good reason. Made from fermented rice and lentils, the ghee roast dosa is cooked in pure ghee and roasted till it gets as crisp as it can.

Idiyappam with Egg Curry - Idiyappam, also known as noolappam is made of rice flour, salt and water. A number of thin strands or sevai are entwined together to make this lovely appam. It's plain texture is what makes it versatile and allows it to be paired up with all kinds of curries.

After consuming what felt like a truckload of breakfast food I walked for miles every day. I walked along the coast of Payyambalam beach till my feet hurt. I walked through the Kannur Fort which had the sea on one side and a garden on the other. I walked on the Ezhimala Beach and against my better judgement I even went to Kannur's snake park!

In-between all of this sight-seeing I managed to gather a lot more insight into what makes Mallu food special. Here are some of my ultimate favorites that I wholeheartedly endorse and would urge you to try on your visit to Kerala -

Nadan Kozhi Varuthathu aka Spicy Chicken Fry - As mundane as chicken fry sounds, this version is downright delicious. Served up on a banana leaf, chicken is fried with onion, garlic, chilli, vinegar and coriander. Let me warn you, this fiery feast will get you hooked!

Kerala Prawn Curry  - It's amazing to see how simple ingredients come together to make a lovely dish. The traditional prawn curry is sprinkled with chilli, salt, pepper and then dipped in a whole lot of coconut milk, jaggery and finally finished with curry leaves.

Kallumakkaya Ularthiyath or Mussel Stir Fry - Mallu food makes me want to believe that everything from the sea can taste delicious. This mussel stir fry requires additional preparation time as the mussels need to be cleaned out but the wait is worth it. The mussels are  cooked in shallots, garlic,  chillies, turmeric, garam masala and a heavy dose of grated coconut.

Erissery or Pumpkin and Lentil Stew - This is probably one of the most popular vegetarian curries in Kerala. It uses a slightly sweet pumpkin and dried lentils as core ingredients and goes brilliantly with a bed of rice and neer dosa.

Naadan Beef fry or Kerala Style Beef Fry and Malabar Parotta- The dark hue of this dish reflects the depth of its almost paralyzing flavours. The beef is well cooked and generously coated with curry leaves, ginger-garlic paste and mustard seeds

Crispy beef fry

Kerala style Fish Molee/Moly - Don't mistake this for just another fish curry because it's absolutely sensational.  The flavour of coconut and cocoum also known as kudampuli take this dish to a whole new level.

the real taste

KASARAGOD - LAND OF FESTIVALS

KASARAGOD

Kasaragod District   LAND OF FESTIVALS is one of the 14 districts in the state of Kerala, India. Kasaragod became part of Kannur district, Kerala following the reorganisation of states and formation of Kerala in November 1, 1956. Kasaragod was declared as a district on 24 May 1984. Now Kasaragod is the northernmost and also the last (14th) district in the State; comprising Kasaragod, Manjeswar, Vellarikundu and Hosdurg taluks.
Kasaragod is world-renowned for its coir and hand-loom industries. It is a region where three 'dream-lands' Kerala, Tulunadu and Coorg meet. The district has a coastline of around 29.3 kilometers and a very vast midland. It also consists of high mountain ranges like the Ranipuram-Kottencheri belt. The district is filled with rivers, hillocks, beaches, shrines and forts. Kasaragod District is unique for its linguistic culture is also known as "Sapthabhasha Sangamabhoomi" as seven major languages are spoken here.
Kasaragod has also been fatally affected by indiscriminate use of the pesticide Endosulphan. Its a challenge of this district

Kasaragod was known to the Arabs by the name Harkwillia. Many Arab travelers who visited Kerala between the 9th and the 14th centuries visited Kasaragod, which was an important trade centre then. Duarte Borbosa, the Portuguese traveler who visited Kumbla, near Kasaragod in 1514, recorded rice being exported for coir to Maldives
Kasaragod was part of the kumbala Kingdom in which there were 64 Tulu and Malayalam villages.When the Vijayanagara empire attacked Kasaragod, it was still under the Kolathiri Raja who had Nileshwaram as one of his capitals. During the decline of the Vijayanagara empire, the administration of this area was vested with Ikkeri Nayakas. At the onset of collapse of the Vijayanagara empire, Venkappa Nayaka declared independence to Ikkery. Kumbla, Chandragiri and Bekal are considered to be the chain of forts constructed or renovated by Shivappa Nayaka.
Francis Buccanan, the family doctor of Arthur Wellesley, visited Kasargod in 1800.In his travelogue, he recorded information on places like Athiraparambu, Kavvai, Nileshwaram, Bekal, Chandragiri and Manjeshwaram In 1763, Hyder Ali conquered Bedanoor (Bidnur), the capital of the Ikkery Naiks. His son Tippu Sultan conquered much of Malabar. As per the Sreerangapattanam Treaty of 1792, Tippu surrendered Malabar, except Tulunadu (Canara) to the British. The British got Tulunadu only after the death of Tippu Sultan. it is said that Kinavoor Molom (Sree Dharma Shashtha Temple)is belonging to Karinthalam (one among 64 Brahmin Villages in old Kerala.

Bekal Fort – Kotta – in Kasargod

The place is only a few meters from the main highway NH 66 (Edappally – Panvel Highway which was earlier NH 17). So it is easily accessible. Kasargod town is at a distance of about 16 kilometers to the North, and Kanjangad towards the south is about 11 kilometers.


This huge fort have a long history; it has seen the rise and fall of several rulers and kingdoms. It is said to have existed from the time of Kolathiri, that is, around 12th Century AD.  Some sources say that the fort had been rebuilt in the 17th century by Shivappa Nayaka, a ruler of Bednore.
Later Tipu Sultan of Mysore invaded the fort and it came under his hands. After the death of Tipu Sultan, the British got hold of it.
In historic times, most of the dynasties used to build forts, to watch the enemies and to protect the kingdom. It was also used as a center of administration.

In Malayalam – the language spoken in Kerala – fort is known as Kotta. So it is Bekal Kotta for us.
The fort is huge in size. There are several watch tower like constructions inside it which offer a great view of the nearby places. Pallikkara beach and town can also be viewed from here There are beautiful gardens inside the fort. Visitors are allowed till around 5 pm, after getting an entry pass at the gate. There is also a small temple near the entry.
I went there once and that was in February 2015, the same day after visiting Muzhappilangad Beach. Spending evening time in the fort is relaxing. Since it is coastal area, there is always a light breeze. Plus the gigantic field of view makes it a great experience.

KOTTAPURAM

Kottappuram or Kasargod district, north Kerala, India, is a backwater destination, which is also known as "Valiyaparamba backwaters". Kottappuram is situated 40 km south of Kasaragod, a town in Hosdurg taluk

Kottappuram is known for attractions which draw large amounts of visitors,which include meandering rivers and tranquil beaches. The bridge across the river roughly marks its northern boundary. The rivers, Tejaswini and Nileswar, meet a short distance away before spilling jointly into the sea at Taikadappuram. The nearest beach is at Thaikandapuram. A small fishing is located close to the estuary.

Local roads have access to NH.66 which connects to Mangalore in the north and Calicut in the south. The nearest railway station is Cheruvathur on Mangalore-Palakkad line. There are airports at Mangalore and Calicut

THALAKAVERI

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Talakaveri is the Birth Place of Kaveri River. Located in the Brahmagiri hill near Bhagamandala, which is one of the 7 sacred rivers of Sapta Sindhus of the Hindu scriptures. It�s around 1,276 m above sea level. Talakaveri is about 8 km away from Bhagamandala and 48 km from Madikeri. However, there is not a permanent visible flow from this place to the main river course except during the rainy season.
The temple here is dedicated to Lord Agastheeswara, which denotes the link between Kavery and Sage Agasthya. It is also marked by a small temple, and the area is frequented by pilgrims. There are 2 temples, a Shiva temple and with a rare and ancient Shiva Linga, and another temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha. This temple has a holy Ashwantha tree where, according to legend, the Trimurtis - Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh gave darshan to sage Agasthya. Kaveri River originates as a spring feeding the tank called the holy Kundike , which is considered to be a holy place to bathe on special days. The waters are then said to flow underground to emerge as the river some distance away. The temple has been renovated extensively by the state government recently. [Click on the HQ gallery to view Talakaveri images exclusive for Paradisecoorg visitors.]
On Tulasankramana day (the first day of Makara Masa [ Hindu calendar] , which normally falls in mid October thousands of pilgrims flock to the river's birthplace to witness the rise of the fountainhead, when water gushes up from the spring at a predetermined moment. The Tula snanam (Sacred bath in the Tula month) is observed across pilgrim towns in Kaveri's banks. Legends also has it that every year on Tulasankramana day Goddess Parvathi appears in the Kundike as the sacred Theerthodbhava. Also from Talakaveri, steps lead up to the nearby Brahmagri peak, The Sapta Maharishis are said to have performed a special yagna.. Tourists can enjoy a good view of the misty blue Brahmagiri hills .

The legend goes that, the Kaveri river was held in a Kamandalu (a container of sacred water) by Sage Agasthya. Vinaayaka (Lord Ganesha) took the form of a crow and perched on the kamandalu of Agasthya when Agasthya was meditating. When Agasthya realised this, he shooed away the crow. But the Divine Crow tipped the kamandalu and toppled it. Out poured Kaveri which started flowing. The crow disappeared and in its place stood a small boy. Agasthya thought that the boy was playing some prank and clenching both his fists, went to pound the head of the small boy. But the boy escaped and Agasthya gave chase. Finally the boy vanished and Lord Ganesha showed Himself to Agasthya. Agasthya was aghast at the realisation that he had just tried to knock the head of Ganesha Himself. As atonement, he knocked his own head with both of his clenched fists.The link between Kaveri and Ganesha also extends to Srirangam as well, in Lord Ganesha's role in setting up the Ranganatha temple there.The temple at Tirumukkudal Narasipura (confluence of Kabini (aka Kapila river, Kaveri and invisible Spatika Sarovara (Crystal Lake)) is also dedicated to Lord Agastheeswara.

Ranipuram

Ranipuram  is a hill station located within Kasargod district of Kerala state [Panathady Panchayat, Vellarikundu Taluk], south India.
Ranipuram lies 750 m (2,460 ft) above sea level adjacent to Kottancheri-Talacavery mountain range.
It was Maadathumala in the earlier days which was later became famous with the name Ranipuram.
The trekking spot starts from the Tourist home at the valley where you can opt two routes. The way gives you the raw picture of untouched forest and scenic beauty from the peak.
This village is connected to Karnataka state through Panathur. There is a 20 k.m. road from Panathur to Sullia in Karnataka from where Bangalore and Mysore can be easilly accessed. Locations in Kerala can be accessed by driving towards the western side . The nearest railway station is Kanhangad railway station on Mangalore-Palakkad line. There are airports at Mangalore and Calicut.

Ananthapuram Temple

Sri Ananthapadmanabha Swamy Temple is Vibrant with the spiritual power of Lord Mahavishnu is located near the northern end of Kerala, in Ananthapura near Kumbla in Kasaragod District. The temple is known as the moolasthanam, the original source, of the Sri Anantha Padmanabha Swamy Temple of Thiruvananthapuram, the capital of Kerala State, which is in the far...

Ananthapuram Lake

The only lake temple in Kerala, Ananthapura lake temple is a Hindu temple that was founded way back in the 9th century. Located around 30 km from Bekal, it is the Moolasthanam or the original abode of Ananda Padmanabha, the deity of Sree Padmanabha Swami Temple, Thiruvananthapuram. It is believed that this was the original site where the Lord settled himself down. The temple has that idol of Sree Padmanabha or Lord Vishnu where he is seated on the serpent god, Adisesha.
A 150-yr old crocodile, Babia at the temple lake (302 feet) is a prime attraction. The locals believe that the crocodile is the guard of the temple. The temple complex is spread in an area of around 2 acres. The complex also has a cave on the right-hand side of the lake. It is believed it was through this cave that Lord Ananda Padmanabha walked all the way to Thiruvananthapuram.
Timings: 5:30 pm – 12:30 pm (morning) and 17:30 pm – 19:30 pm (evening)
Nearest railway station: Kasaragod railway station (14 km)
Nearest airport: Calicut International Airport (222 km)

VEERAMALA

Veeramala is a hill in Cherukole Panchayat, of Pathanumthitta District, Kerala, India. Veeramala Immanuel Mar Thoma Sunday School celebrated its Centenary.
There is another Veeramala Hills which is a small mountain in the Kasargode district of Kerala state, in southern India. It is located in Cheruvathur. There is a hilltop with ruins of a Dutch fort built in the 18th century. A picnic spot from where the natural beauty of the Kariangode River and its surroundings can be enjoyed

KAYYUR

Kayyur, the cradle of agrarian revolution in Kerala, is located in Kasargod District. Situated on the banks of the Kariangode River(The great 'THEJESWANI'), the village is famous for the Kayyur Revolt. The farmers and workers of this village conducted a historic fight against feudalism and British imperialism. The revolt took an ugly turn during its course and a police constable was killed. Four brave lads were hanged in connection with this incident on March 29, 1943. The place is located near Cheruvathur. Cheruvathur Railway Station is the nearest railhead.

KALARI

SO FAR WE HAVE GONE THROUGH THE SOME OF MOSTLY BEUTIFUL PLACES OF GODS OWN COUNTRY HOPE YOU ALL ENJOYED IN READING AND UNDERSTANDING THE PLACE , SO WHILE WHEN U MAKE A VISIT DONT MISS THESE MIND BLOWING PLACES OF KERALA, THAT WILL BE REALLY REFRESHING MOMENTS FOR U , SO PLEASE STAY TUNED .....HERE THE REMAINING MIND BLASTERS COMING FOR U ALL.........THANK YOUUUU.....


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KANNUR - tHE lAND oF LOOMS , LORES & THEYYAM

KANNUR LAND OF THEYYAMS

tHE lAND oF LOOMS , LORES & THEYYAM

Kannur , formerly known as Cannanore, is a city and a Municipal Corporation in Kannur district, state of Kerala, India. It is the administrative headquarters of the Kannur District and situated 518 km north of the state capital Thiruvananthapuram. During British rule in India, Kannur was known as Cannanore, which is used now only by the Indian Railways. It is the largest city of the North Malabar region.

Kannur district is known as the land of Looms and Lores, because of the loom industries functioning in the district and ritualistic folk arts held in temples. Kannur is famous for its pristine beaches, Theyyam, its native performing art, and its handloom industry. Kannur is of great strategic military importance. Kannur Cantonment is one of the 62 military cantonments in the country and is the headquarters of the Defence Security Corps and Territorial Army’s 122 Infantry Battalion (under Madras Regiment). Ezhimala Naval Academy (INS) is 35 km north of Kannur City. It is Asia's largest and the world's third largest naval academy. An Indian Coast Guard Academy is approved to be built at Kannur. This academy will be built on the banks of Valapattanam River at Irinave, east of Azhikkal. Kannur Cantonment is one of the important cantonments in India.


പല കളിത്തൊട്ടിലായ തെയ്യം, കണ്ണൂര് എന്നീ നിറപ്പകിട്ടാർന്ന നാടോടി കലാരൂപങ്ങളും ആരുടെ അഷ്ടമുടിക്കായലിന്റെ ശലോമോൻ രാജാവിന്റെ കപ്പലുകൾ യെരൂശലേമിന്റെ വലിയ മന്ദിരം പണിയും മരവും ശേഖരിച്ച നിന്ന്, പുരാതന തുറമുഖം പറയപ്പെടുന്നു.  പോലും ഗ്രീക്കുകാർ, റോമാക്കാർ ആൻഡ് അറബികൾ, കണ്ണൂർ വ്യാപാരം കണ്ണികൾ തിരികെ ഒരു നീണ്ട പോകുന്നു. സുഗന്ധവ്യഞ്ജന വ്യാപാരത്തിന്റെ വലിയ എംപോറിയം ആഘോഷിക്കുന്നത് സഞ്ചാരി മാർക്കോ പോളോ വഴി പ്രശംസിക്കപ്പെട്ടിട്ടുണ്ട് ഈ സ്വഭാവം സമ്പുഷ്ടമായ ദേശം സംസ്ഥാന സാംസ്കാരിക, മത, രാഷ്ട്രീയ, വ്യാവസായിക അവകാശത്തെ ഒരു കീ സമ്പാദകർ ഉണ്ടായിട്ടുണ്ട്. . പടിഞ്ഞാറ് കിഴക്ക് പശ്ചിമഘട്ട, ലക്ഷദ്വീപ് സീ അതിരുകള്, കണ്ണൂർ പുരാതന കോട്ടകളും, പഴയ ആരാധനാലയങ്ങൾ അതിന്റെ മനോഹരമായ പ്രകൃതിദൃശ്യങ്ങളും ഡോട്ട് ആഗസ്റ്റ് സാംസ്കാരിക വിദ്യാഭ്യാസ സ്ഥാപനങ്ങളിൽ അതിന്റെ ശ്രദ്ധേയമായ ചരിത്രം പ്രദർശിപ്പിക്കുന്നു .

Ezhimala Hill

Ezhimala (also known as Ezhimalai), a hill reaching a height of 286 metres, is located near Payyanur, in Kannur District of Kerala, South India. As the former capital of the ancient Mushika Kingdom, it is considered to be an important historical site, and is a conspicuous and isolated cluster of hills, forming a promontory, 38 km north of Kannur Town. A flourishing seaport and center of trade around the beginning of the Common Era, it was also one of the major battlefields of the Chola-Chera Wars, in the 11th century. It is believed by some that Lord Buddha had visited Ezhimala. The hill was once known as Mount Delly by the English or Monte D'Ely by the Portuguese

Ezhimala, which is part of Ramanthali panchayath, is one of the most important places in the recorded history of North Kerala. From before the period of known history, some chapters of the Ramayana and local Hindu legends associate the Ezhimala Hills with the famous epic, in particular with Lord Hanuman.
Ezhimala, Pazhayangadi, and several villages and towns in this region find plenty of mention in the extant Tamil Sangam Period's literature (500 BC to 300 AD). Pazhayangadi is the present corrupted form of its ancient name of Pazhi. Pazhi is mentioned as the ancient capital of King Udayan Venmon Nannan (known as Nannan or Nandan) of the Mushika or Kolathiri Royal Family. Though the Dynasty of Nannans was a cousin or sister dynasty of the Cheras and Pandyas and Cholas, warfare among them was nearly consistent, and the period of Nannan was no exception. There are texts that speak of Nannan fighting heroic battles at Pazhi against the Chera Kings who invaded his kingdom (Kolathunadu). Eventually, Nannan was killed in battle by the Chera king, Narmudi Cheral. Like the other kings of the then Tamilakam cultural polity, Narmudi Cheral was a great patron of scholars and poets, and he once gifted his court-poet, Kappiyattu Kappiyanar with 40 lakhs gold coins, as a token of his poetic genius.
Extant Tamil Sangam texts describe the glory and wealth of the ancient Pazhi in the highest terms.Sangam Era poets, as well as Classical Tamil poets of later centuries, like Paranar speak of the wealth of Pazhi in the greatest degree. One of the Sangam pieces, Akam 173 speaks of "Nannan's great mountain slopes where gold fields abound, and long bamboos dried in the Sun burst and released the unfinished pearls." Noted scholar, Elamkulam Kunjan Pillai states that "It is from Kottayam (of North Malabar) and Cannanore regions of old Ezhimalainad that innumerable Roman (gold) coins have been excavated. On one (single) occasion (gold) coins that could be carried by six porters were obtained. These coins were found to belong to the period down to 491 AD"
Ezhimala was also a flourishing seaport and center of trade at least by the start of the Common Era; and later was also one of the major battlefields of the series of Chola-Chera Wars in the 11th century; some believe that Lord Buddha had visited Ezhimala.
Mooshika Vamsham, written by Athulan in the 11th century, throws light on the recorded past of the Mushika Royal Family up until that point. The first recorded king of Mooshika Vamsham (the Mooshika Dynasty) was Ramaghata Mooshika and his capital most probably was Pazhi (ancient Pazhayangadi). Athulan describes the later kings of this dynasty who are now better known as the Kolathiri Dynasty. King Ramaghata Mooshika's successors shifted their capital to Ezhimala, Valabhapattanam (Valapattanam), and eventually Chirakkal, among other nearby places, over the following centuries.

 AARALAM WILDLIFE SANCTUARY 

The Aaralam Wildlife Sanctuary is Kerala's northernmost sanctuary in Kannur District. Its massive evergreen trees sprawl over 55 square kilometers, making it a part of the Northern Wildlife Circle. With headquarters in Iritty, it is centered around Aaralam (Aralam), Thalaseery. This village is noted for the 3060-hectare Central State Farm and its production of hybrid coconut seeds. The sanctuary was established back in the mid 1980's on the western slopes of the luscious Western Ghats. Aaralam, Kottiyoor and Kelakam are the nearest towns and Cheenkannippuzha is the main water source. A majority of the sanctuary's landscape is rugged with hills that are continuous with the forests of Coorg (Kodagu) in Karnataka. Aaralam is an ideal marriage of dense jungle and rocks. This beautiful hill forest land has altitudes that range from 60 meters at the base to Katti Betta, the tallest peak at 1489 msl. Eco-tourism plays an instrumental role in all the activities that take place in Aaralam. Quite apart from the 20 kilometer trek that begins at the mouth of the sanctuary and ends in Ambalapaara, other options such as trekking to Meenmutty and a day visit to Aaralam Sanctuary are on offer. All necessary equipment for camping and trekking is made available. While trekking through Aaralam you move through a variety of forest types. You have West Coast semi-evergreen, West Coast tropical evergreen, Southern hilltop evergreen and South Indian moist deciduous forests. Along with these, Aaralam has 500 hectares of eucalyptus and teak that Kerala is so popularly known for. Aaralam is situated in the extreme north of the state. Its vegetation can be distinctly divided into three strata. Until two thirds of the way up (in terms of altitude) are heavy, cylindrical trees that have not branched out but instead formed an umbrella shaped canopy over itself. The middle stratum comprises conical trees shaped almost like a melting candle. All of Aaralam's trees are ridden with moss and orchids; even lichens and fungi are a regular sight. The wild animals and birds of the sanctuary are typical to the Western Ghats. One can spot wild boar, Malabar giant squirrel, leopards, mouse deer, gaur, sambar deer, Hanuman langur and more. The soil, trees, nooks and corners of the Aaralam Wildlife Sanctuary house several species of amphibians and reptiles as well, including the royal king cobra. There is huge potential for bird watching as you stand in the presence of 188 bird species, a dozen of which are endemic to the region. Keep an eye out for Malabar pied hornbill, Nilgiri wood pigeon, Broad billed roller, Ceylon frogmouth and the great pied hornbill. Rare sightings of the Kerala laughing thrush have been reported too. The sanctuary's aquafuana thrives well and boasts of the endangered Tor Khudree.
The season to visit Aaralam Wildlife Sanctuary would be between October and June; avoid the extreme summer and winter months. Regardless of climate though, if you are a butterfly lover, make sure you visit in November or December to see more than 170 types of the fluttering beauties.
Once at Aaralam, you cannot miss trekking out to Meenmutty Falls. They tumble down from a height of 300 meters in three tiers. The 2-kilometer trail to the falls are rather difficult and can be tiring for the first time trekker, but these virgin falls are fresh and one of the few in the country that are not tainted by commercial tourism.

Paithalmala 

Paithalmala (Malayalam: പൈതൽമല) or Paithalmala is a hill station in the Kannur district of Kerala in India. Located near Pottenplave village, at a height of 1371.6 m above sea level, this is the highest geographic peak in Kannur. It is located at 40 km from Taliparamba and 65 km from Kannur. Nestled in the Kerala Karnataka border near to Kodagu forests, it lies in the Western Ghats. It has become a favourite spot for the nature enthusiasts, photographers, trekkers and leisurely visitors.

There are two trekking seasons at Paithalmala, falling in monsoon and summer. Monsoon (June to October) trekking to Paithalmala is a photographer's delight as the mist blankets the hills and forest. One can indulge into the lush greenery amidst the showers throughout the day, especially in July. Practically, trekking is not as easy as in the summer because of the extreme climate. Watch out for leeches and occasional elephant visits.
Monsoon is followed by a cool climate in Paithalmala and the grass surrounding the hills grow to their fullest size, making it difficult to walk through. As they grow above seven feet, finding the regular way becomes a difficult task. By December, the forest caretakers set fire to the grass, taking care of the rest of the forest, to ease out the trekking experience. Soon after this, the hill becomes unsuitable to trek because of the black sooth formed but clears away after a couple of weeks. The best time for a trek is from Jan to March though the sun might be harsh.
There is an observatory tower made by the department of tourism at the hilltop which can be reached after a 45 min walk from the Paithal valley. Trekking starts through the dense forest followed by the plain grass land on the hill top.
View of the valley from the observatory tower is breathtaking and the observer’s eyes can hover over more than half the area of Kannur district.
Most of the visitors end their trek having time spent around the tower, but much of the excitement of the Paithalmala is located elsewhere.
The best part of the trek is the walk from the observatory tower to the thick forest where trail from Kappimala ends. One can move on top of the hills enjoying the mesmerizing scenery of the Coorg forest on right and Paithal valley on the left. The grassland looks stunning here and arguably is the best scene of the trek. The best time to start the trek is early morning, after the breakfast from the valley and finishing by evening. Lunch, water and snacks need to be carried.
This is one of the few places in Kerala where the nature is not largely affected by human invasion, thanks to the limited reachability. But the future does not look promising because of the increasing tendency of visitors to make it as a drinking spot. The observatory tower is in a poor condition as the walls and barricades are broken or destroyed. The surroundings of the tower are littered with beer bottles and like any other tourist spots, plastic is the major threat here too. It is sad to see even the streams where you get the purest of water have been treated badly with plastic covers thrown around. Nevertheless, the hill top remains largely non-polluted and the visitors are advised to preserve it.

BEACHS IN KANNUR

Kannur Beach is a group of five beaches on the western side of Kannur city in Kerala province of India. They are

1. Payyambalam Beach
2. Meenkunnu Beach
3. Adikadalayi Beach
4. Baby Beach
5. Thayyil Beach

Kottiyoor

Kottiyoor is a village and the 23rd Wild Life Sanctuary of Kerala, situated in eastern hilly area of Kannur. Kottiyoor is located in the serene hills of Western Ghats. The ancient pilgrimage conducted here yearly, called 'Kottiyoor Vysakha Mahotsavam' attracts thousands of devotees every year. The Vavali river flows through Kottiyoor.

“Kottiyoor” comes from Koodi(Meeting) and Uuru(Precinct); the name comes from the pilgrimage in the region. The mythology says that this is the place where the holy trinity (Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva), Veerabhadra, Bhadrakali, Shiva Bhutaganas, revered Sages and other holy men came together to complete the Daksha Yaga. It is believed that Sati Devi immolated herself here. The etymology of most of the places on the way to Kottiyoor are also related to the mythology. Sati Devi's voyage to the “Yagashala” can be understood by the names of these area. The place where she desperately felt the need of Shiva and felt sad on his absence is called “Manathana”. The place where Sati Devi cried is now the name of a nearby village called “Kanneer char”. Another village nearby is “Aayothumchal”, this is where Sati felt tired and rested for some time. An ox was provided from a place on the way for the tired Devi to ride, this place is now known as “Kelakam”. There is a place called “Neendunokki” this is the place where Sati peeped at the distant 'Yaga shala' when she heard the noise emanating from there. The place where she had to pay taxation is called - “Chungakunnu”, where she walked slowly became “Mandhemcheri”. The place where she became extremely tired and fell down is “Murchilakadu”. “Mutherikavu” is a temple and the name of a village, it is where the sword which decapitated Daksha, was thrown by Veerabhadra . Stone hearths used for boiling milk came to be known as “Palukachiyamala”
Kottiyoor is declared as a wild life sanctuary by the Government of Kerala. It is the 23rd wild life sanctuary in Kerala. The total area of the zone is 3,037.98 hectares. It is in addition to the Aralam wild life sanctuary in Kannur District. Kottiyoor Wild Life Sanctuary is adjacent to the Bandipur National Park, a tiger reserve park in Karnataka border.
Kottiyoor is an exciting tourist spot for biologists, nature sight seers and mountaineering trekkers. Neendunokki, Palukachiyamala, Kelakam are all serene green places suitable for Eco tourism. The forest is serene, a large variety of birds and seasonal butterflies are deen here. Palukachipara's hilltop is a well known location for usual trekkers'.
Kottiyoor Utsavam, the yaga festival in Akkare Kottiyoor Shrine, is conducted yearly for 27 days commemorating the Daksha Yaga. The pilgrimage is on the west bank of Bavali river in a temporary shrine where the Swayambhu linga is present. During the time of pilgrimage the Ikkare Kottiyoor Temple will be closed. Thousands of pilgrims come to this place, the festival is in the rainy season of June–July.



KRISHNANATTAM

MAAHI

Mahe, situated on the west coast of Kerala is a former French colony in India. Geographically situated in Kerala, poilitically Mahe forms part of Pondicherry Union Territory. It lies south of Mahe River near where the river meets the sea. Mahe is famous as a brisk trade center of foreign liquor.

The history of Mahe is closely associated with a statue named Marianne, a proud symbol of French revolution. The freedom struggle of Mahe gathered momentum from this place. Hence, this place is now well maintained as a park in the name of Rabindranath Tagore.

The Headquarters office of Mahe administration is the Government House which is a fine example of the French architecture. There is a mini forest area at the back of the Government House. From this point, the Arabian Sea, the costline with golden sand, the Mayyazhi River and the Dharmadam island can be seen.

Other attractions include a tall flag mast, a lighthouse, remnants of a fort and the sunset. In addition to these, Mahe Boat house, 2 km from the Government house, in the Mahe River welcomes the visitors with speed boats, pedal boats and kayak boats. Some other places of interest are Thacholi Othenan’s Fort, Puzhakal Juma Masjid, St. Theresa Church, Sree Krishna Temple, St. George Fort, Puthalam Bhagavathi Temple and Sree Narayana Madam.

The Government Tourist Home near the Government House, the Zara Resort on the railway station road, the Arena Hotel near the Mahe Sports Club and the Municipal Tourist Home provide excellent accommodation.

St. Angelo Fort

The Dutch captured the fort from the Portuguese in 1663. They modernised the fort and built the bastions Hollandia, Zeelandia and Frieslandia that are the major features of the present structure. The original Portuguese fort was pulled down later. A painting of this fort and the fishing ferry behind it can be seen in the Rijksmuseum Amsterdam. The Dutch sold the fort to king Ali Raja of Arakkal in 1772. In 1790 the British seized it and used it as their chief military station in Malabar until 1947.
The fort is in the Cannanore Cantonment area. It is fairly well preserved as a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India. St Angelo's fort is a most important historical monument and a popular tourist attraction. Six Tourism Policeman are posted here for protection duty.
In 2015, thousands of cannonballs weighing several kilos were discovered from the Fort premises. The Archaeological Survey of India, which led the excavation, believes these were buried as part of military preparedness.

Arakkal Museum

The Arrakkal Museum is a museum dedicated to the Arakkal family, the only Muslim royal family in Kerala, south India. The museum is actually a section of the Arakkalkettu (Arakkal Palace). The durbar hall section of the palace has been converted into a museum by the Government of Kerala.

Arakkal family is the royal family which ruled Kannur for several centuaries. They had family relationship with Kolathiris, the rulers of the neighbouring Chirakkal kingdom. Arakkal family had trade relationship with Arabs and later with Europeans. The islands of Lakshadweep and Maldives were ruled by Arakkal family. The king of Arakkal kingdom was known as Arakkal Raja and the Queen was known as Arakkal Beevi.

Although renovated by the government, the Arakkalkettu is still owned by the Arakkal Family Trust and does not fall under the control of the country's archaeology department, the Archaeological Survey of India. The government had taken a keen interest in preserving the heritage of the Arakkal Family, which had played a prominent role in the history of Malabar. A nominal entry fee is charged by the Arakkal Family Trust from visitors to the museum.
It is a women ruling dynasty.
Although renovated by the government, the Arakkalkettu is still owned by the Arakkal Royal Trust and does not fall under the control of the country's archaeology department, the Archaeological Survey of India. The government had taken a keen interest in preserving the heritage of the Arakkal Family, which had played a prominent role in the history of Malabar. A nominal entry fee is charged by the Arakkal Royal Trust from visitors to the museum.

Dharmadam Island

Dharmadam Island in Kannur is an enchanting paradise – a beautiful, secluded spot with swaying coconut trees and wild bushes. Its verdant settings have given it the name Green Island. This little island is spread across just 5 acres but some time spent here is bound to refresh and rejuvenate you.

This isle is 100 meters from Dharmadam mainland, which is between Kannur and Thalasseri. It is formed as a result of a lateritic rock projection between two branches of the Anjarakkandy River and the Arabian Sea. During low tide, the sea recedes and you can walk across to the island. However, do not venture out on your own without a local guide, as the water can rise rapidly during high tide. Alternately, you can take a boat from the south end of Moidu Bridge which is close by on the Kannur-Thalasseri highway. If you are planning to picnic on the island, carry your own food as there are no restaurants here.

Although Green Island is uninhabited, it is a privately owned place and you need permission from the owners if you want to visit. The Kerala Government took over the island in 1998 to develop it for tourism. The best time to visit this island is between October and May
Dharmadam Island is a lush green tiny paradise! The island abounds in a variety of flora and many types of trees. The reddish-brown rocks that are scattered on the island are distinctive and add to the beauty of the place. There is one well on the island, and amazingly, the water from the well is not saline.

With its secluded charm, its luxuriant vegetation and the rippling waters of the Arabian Sea…Green Island has become a popular tourist haunt. The island is just 200 meters from the very popular Muzhuppilangad Beach, which is Asia’s longest drive-in beach.

Dharmadam means ‘the place of ethics’. In times past, Buddhist monks used to frequent this town. The town was also frequented by the Arabs and the Jews centuries ago. Today, the town still has an old-world charm thanks to its beach and the Green Island. It’s become very popular with honeymooners thanks to the romantic ambience!

When you are at Dharmadam you could pay a visit to Andalur Kaavu, a place of worship that is very popular with the locals. Kaavus are a quintessential part of Kerala Hindu tradition. It is a little preserved forest or grove dedicated to snakes. The serpents are worshipped at the Kaavu, which, with its dense vegetation, is a natural habitat for many varieties of snakes, which live in these groves undisturbed..

THEYYAM

Theyyam (Teyyam, Theyyattam ) (Malayalam:തെയ്യം) is a popular ritual form of worship of North Malabar in Kerala, India, predominant in the Kolathunadu area (consisting of present-day Kasargod, Kannur Districts, Mananthavady Taluk of Wayanad and Vadakara and Koyilandy Taluks of Kozhikode of Kerala) and also in Kodagu and Tulu nadu of Karnataka as a living cult with several thousand-year-old traditions, rituals and customs. The performers of Theyyam belong to the lower caste community, and have an important position in Theyyam.People of these districts consider Theyyam itself as a God and they seek blessings from this Theyyam. A similar custom is followed in the Tulu Nadu region of neighbouring Karnataka known as Bhuta Kola