"If the immaculate beauty of nature intoxicates you, then Kerala is where you should be".

Kerala, the southwestern tip of India is blessed with unique geographical and cultural features. Its overpowering tropical greenness, arcane rituals and spectacular festivals stimulate even the most jaded imagination. Strictly guarded by age-old traditions, this land at times seems almost 'unearthly'.

In spite of being the most densely populated state in India, the quietude and calmness of the place is striking.

The state capital, Thiruvanathapuram (Trivandrum),is an ideal first stop in the state, as a window on Kerala culture. Throughout the city, trees rising high above the ground level, even in urban settlements can create a miraculous illusion that one is surrounded by forests. This is decidedly an easy-going city, with an attractive mixture of narrow back streets, traditional red tiled houses and acres of palm trees. Must sees here include the Padmanabhaswamy temple and the Puttan Malika Palace.

Thiruvanathapuram is also a gateway to the nearby palm fringed beaches of Kovalam that provide visitors an opportunity to sample Kerala's rich cultural and artistic life. Kovalam is a 'tropical south Indian paradise'. With an ideal combination of sun, sea and sand, a quiet vacation at any of the resorts here is something any tired visitor would look forward to. Relaxing body massages with traditional Ayurvedic oils would surely act as added attractions.

54 km northwest of Thiruvanathapuram, Varkala, long known as a place of pilgrimage with its beautiful beach and cliffs is also an unspoiled alternative to Kovalam. The sparkling white sand beach 'Papanasam' and the Janardhana Swamy temple are the attractions of this town. One of the most memorable experiences for any traveler, however is the opportunity to take a boat journey on the backwaters of Kerala. This bewildering labyrinth of shimmering waterways, composed of lakes, canals, lined with dense vegetation preserves rural Keralan lifestyle that is completely cut off from the outside world. The most popular excursion is between Kollam and Alappuzha.

Further up North is the temple town of Guruvayoor, known for its Krishan temple which is visited by almost 40000 pilgrims every day. The bustling city of Calicut, the verdant region of Waynad are all part of a great experience that Kerala has to offer. The gourmet lovers can choose some of the exclusive home - stays that we offer to our guests.

Mail us to book tour in Kerala : mktg@discoveryfullcircle.com