Sasthamkotta-Kerala

Sasthamkotta, Kollam Sasthamkotta is a serene village and is known for the fresh water lake located here. The lake surrounded by hills on three sides is the largest of its kind in the state. An ancient Sastha Temple located here is a famous pilgrim centre. Getting there: Nearest railway station: Kollam, about 29 km. Nearest airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, about 71 km from Kollam. Kerala Trip

Kuttanad - Kerala

Kuttanad, Alappuzha Endless stretches of backwaters and palm-fringed emerald islets are the unique features of this low-lying vista in central Kerala. Vast stretches of green paddy fields criss crossed by canals and dotted by occasional islands of coconut groves, Kuttanad is the granary of Kerala where most of its rice is grown. Many parts of Kuttanad are some 4 to 10 feet below sea level. Four major rivers of Kerala, the Pamba, Achankovil, Meenachil and Manimala rivers, flow into Kuttanad. Discover the beauty of Kuttanad on a houseboat ride through the enchanting backwaters and canals of Kuttanad. Getting there: Nearest railway station: Alappuzha. Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, about 85 km from Alappuzha. Kerala Trip

Kumarakom - Kerala

Kumarakom Backwaters, Kottayam The village of Kumarakom, on the banks of Vembanadu lake is an interesting and popular tourist locale. There are numerous canals crisscrossing the area. Travellers can reach the spot by road or through waterways. This backwater destination houses some of the best heritage homes and ayurvedic centres. A haven of migratory birds like Siberian stork, egret, darter, heron and teal, the Kumarakom bird sanctuary is also located here. Getting there: Nearest railway station: Kottayam, about 16 km. Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, about 95 km. More Details Please Contact : KERALA TRIP

Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary-Kerala

Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary, Kozhikode This is a bird sanctuary spread over a group of islands in an area dotted with hillocks in the estuary of the Kadalundi River, which joins the Arabian Sea here. This untouched littoral region is home to nearly 60 species of birds, of which many are winter visitors, who come here to nest and breed. The islands and birds can be watched from a 200 m high hillock nearby. Getting there: Nearest railway station: Kozhikode, about 19 km. Nearest airport: Karipur International Airport, about 23 km from Kozhikode. KERALA TRIP

Kerala

Chandragiri Fort and River, Kasaragod Chandragiri is famous for its 17th century fort near Chandragiri river. The river was the border between two erstwhile kingdoms ? the Kolathunadu and Thulunadu. The fort offers a breathtaking view of the river and the Arabian Sea. It is a vantage point to watch the sunset. There is a beautiful bridge over the river at Tekkil some five miles from Chandragiri. Boat trips to nearby islands and palm groves are also available. Getting there: Nearest railway station: Kasaragod, few minutes drive from Chandragiri. Nearest airport: Mangalore, about 50 km from Kasaragod KERALA TRIP

Kerala - Beach

Bekal Location: About 16 km South of Kasaragod on the national highway, Kasaragod district, North Kerala Kasaragod, the Northern most district of Kerala is renowned as the land of gods, forts, rivers, hills and beautiful beaches. The imposing fort at Bekal is one of the largest and best preserved forts in Kerala. The beautiful expanse of the shallow beach near the Bekal fort known as Bekal Fort Beach has been developed as an exotic beach location by the Bekal Resorts Development Corporation (BRDC). Beautification: Beautification of the site includes installation of two sculptures of Theyyam created using laterite on the beach and a shed the walls of which are adorned with murals created by artisans from Nilambur. Apart from these a rock garden at the parking area has been developed where laterite boulders of various sizes have been utilised. Under the social forestry scheme, trees have been planted in the beach area. Parking facilities: The BRDC has developed about 7000 sq. m of land for parking different types of vehicles. Walkway: A beautiful walkway has been laid for the visiting tourists to explore the beauty of the fine coastline and enjoy the panoramic view of the Bekal Fort. Illuminated beach: The beach gets illuminated during the evening hours so that tourists can spend more time at the beach even after the sun sets. Resting facilities: Multi shed and Eru madam (Tree house) would provide the tourists enough facilities to take rest and enjoy the sea breeze. By using locally available materials seating arrangements have been provided for the tourists at the beach. Toilets: Toilets have been provided for the use of tourists and eco-friendly bamboo waste bins have been provided in the entire beach site for keeping the area clean. Children's park: A park has been developed here for children below 14 years. In order to maintain the developed site a nominal charge of one rupee from each visitor would be collected as entry fees. A similar nominal vehicle parking fees would also be collected. The BRDC also aims to develop in future another 11 acres of land at the beach for constructing water park, theme park etc. The BRDC was set up by the Government of Kerala to develop Bekal as a planned eco-friendly destination. The BRDC has utilised 19 acres of land for the development of the Bekal Fort Beach at a cost of approximately Rs. 25 million including land acquisition charges. Getting there: Nearest railway station: Kasaragod, on the Kozhikode-Mangalore-Mumbai route. Nearest airport: Mangalore, about 50 km from Kasaragod town; Karipur International Airport, Kozhikode, about 200 km from Kasaragod town. for More Details : KERALA TRIP

Kerala -Beach

Muzhapilangad Location: About 15 km from Kannur and 8 km from Thalasseri, Kannur district, North Kerala. The Muzhapilangad beach which stretches across four kilometres of sand is a drive-in-beach where one can drive down the entire length. Calm and serene, the place is secluded and remains unexplored. Huge black rocks scattered here protect this long beach from the deep currents, and form a tranquil pool of shallow waters that is a swimmer's paradise. The palm groves fringing the beach are a cool hideaway from the tropical sun. Getting there: Muzhapilangad beach is just a kilometre to the West of National Highway 17. Nearest railway station: Kannur, an important railhead of Southern Railway. Nearest airport: Kozhikode International Airport, about 93 km from Kannur town. More Details : KERALA TRIP

Kerala - Wayanadu

WAYANADU KERALATRIP

Area: 2132 sq. km Altitude: 700 - 2100 m above sea level A bio-diverse region spread across 2,132 square kilometers on the lofty Western Ghats, Wayanad is one of the few districts in Kerala that has been able to retain its pristine nature. Hidden away in the hills of this land are some of the oldest tribes, as yet untouched by civilization. And the very first prehistoric engravings in Kerala discovered in the foothills of Edakkal and around Ambukuthimala bear testimony to a pre-historic culture dating back to the Mesolithic Age. Strikingly scenic, it is known for its sub-tropical savannahs, picturesque hill stations, sprawling spice plantations, luxuriant forests and rich cultural traditions. A holistic confluence of wilderness, history and culture, Wayanad is located on the southern tip of the magnificent Deccan plateau. ACCESSIBILITY Telephone access code: + 91 4936 Air: Nearest airport: Kozhikode Rail: Nearest railway station: Kozhikode Major towns in the district and distance from the nearest railway station: Kalpetta: 72 km from Kozhikode, Mananthavady: 80 km from Thalassery and 106 km from Kozhikode, Sulthan Bathery: 97 km from Kozhikode, Vythiri: 60 km from Kozhikode. Road: Well connected by roads from Kozhikode, Kannur, Ooty (175 km from Kalpetta) and Mysore (140 km from Kalpetta). Tourist information offices: District Tourism Promotion Council, Kalpetta Telefax: 202134 Pookot Ph: 255207 Email: info@dtpcwayanad.com www.dtpcwayanad.com, Tourist Information Centre, Collectorate Ph: + 91 4936 204441 , Govt. Guest House, Sulthan Bathery Ph: + 91 4936 220225

Monsoon in KERALA

The Monsoons in Kerala do not take the pattern of incessant rains continuing for weeks. Virtually it rains for a few hours with sunny interludes. Occasionally the rains might stretch on for a few days but the respite of sunshine is never far away. People look forward to seeing the sun peep through the wet palm fronds and rain drenched green. These golden interludes provide an equilibrium to life's natural flow. Kerala has mainly two rainy seasons. The Southwest Monsoon that arrives in the month of June is called Edavappathy, as it comes in the middle of the month of Edavam on the Malayalam Calendar. Mid October witnesses the arrival of the Northeast Monsoon. In the Malayalam calendar this month is called Thulam and hence the name Thulavarsham meaning the 'The Rains in Thulam'. Now the gathering rain clouds are from the Bay of Bengal. These bearers of rain hurry to Kerala through the Palakkad Gap in the Western Ghats. The swirling, jostling, billowing dark messenger of life sailing on the wings of northeast winds is a breathtaking sight to behold. The art forms of Kerala demand the utmost dedication and training. These native art forms require complete control over each nerve of the body. As part of this training the artists undergo ayurvedic therapies. Special herbal oils and medications are applied on the body of the artist during the Monsoon time to ensure muscle flexibility and dexterity of movement. As nature recoups with the rains, it is rejuvenation time for humans too. According to Ayurveda, Monsoon is the best season for rejuvenation therapies. During the Monsoon season, the atmosphere remains dust-free and cool, opening the pores of the body to the maximum, making it most receptive to herbal oils and therapy. More details : KERALA TRIP

Kerala Trip

Tree House is also known as “Erumadom” in Kerala’s local language, Malayalam. In simple sense tree house is a house built on top of a tree or trees. Mostly Eco-friendly materials such as coir mats, bamboo poles, hay- straws, live trees etc are the raw materials that used for making these houses. In the earlier periods tribal people were using tree houses in forests of Kerala. Tree House promises you a very very pleasant, rejuvenating, adventurous and unforgettable holiday atop a securely perched tree house. Our tree houses offer you a panoramic view of the breathtakingly scenic Munnar including its pristine valleys and mountains. At a short distance you can enjoy the sight of large expanse of tea plantations and the wild life. Kerala Trip

Kerala Trip

Mohiniyattam, Klassischer Tanz von Kerala Der schlängelnde Tanz der Zauberin, ist eine unverkennbare Form des klassischen Tanzes von Kerala. Langsame, anmutige, wiegende Bewegungen des Körpers und der Gliedmaßen und sehr emotionalen Augen- und Handgesten, machen diese Tanzform einzigartig. Das einfache, elegante Gold-filigrane Kleid, in reinem Weiß oder Elfenbein, ist der traditionellen Kleidung der Frauen Keralas sehr ähnlich. Der Ursprung von Mohiniyattom ist in der hinduistischen Mythologie verwurzelt. Nachdem der Milchozean von den Göttern und Dämonen aufgewühlt wurde, um das Elixier des Lebens und der Unsterblichkeit zu extrahieren, machten sich die Dämonen dieses göttliche Gebräu ihr Eigen. Lord Vishnu kam zur Rettung der panischen Götter und nahm die weibliche Form der amourösen himmlischen Dame Mohini an. Mohini fesselte die Dämonen mit ihren Reizen, stahl das Elixier von ihnen und übergab es wieder den Göttern. Dieser Tanz wurde von den Devadasi, den Tempeltänzerinnen, übernommen, daher auch der Name "Dasiattam", der während der Regierungszeit Cheras vom 9. bis zum 12. Jahrhundert sehr populär war. KERALA TRIP

Kerala Trip

Kerala Souvenirs Souvenirs sollen der Erinnerungen an eigene Erfahrungen im Leben dienen. Dabei kann es sich um Erfahrungen jeglicher Art handeln. Gerade bei Reisen erreichen Souvenirs einen unermesslichem Wert, vor allem wenn Leute wirklich exotische Reiseziele wie Kerala besuchen. In Kerala können Reisende eine Vielzahl von Souvenir-Artikel finden, die Kultur, Geschichte, Kunst und sozialreligiöse Aspekte widerspiegeln. Kerala Souvenirs sind in einer breiten Palette von attraktiven und einzigartigen, handgefertigten Produkten erhältlich. Darunter sind die populären Artikel, wie Aranmula Kannadi (Metallspiegel); handwerkliche Produkte aus Kokosnuss-Schalen, Holz, Ton und Zuckerrohr; Wandmalereien und Waren aus handgewebten Stoffen wie Kasavu Sari (Sari mit Goldbrokat). In Kerala können Reisende eine Vielzahl typischer Kerala Souvenirs im Culture Shoppe erwerben. Dies ist die offizielle Agentur, die Kerala Souvenirs für die Abteilung Tourismus der Regierung von Kerala fördert. Im Culture Shoppe können die Besucher Geschenke und Andenken, wie Uruli (Wok), Para (Messing Miniatur eines traditionellen Messgefäßes) Kettuvallom (Reisbarke) Aranmula Kannadi (Metallspiegel), Nettipattam (Schmuck für Elefanten), Nettoor Petti (traditionelles Schmuckkästchen) und viele andere, erwerben. For More Details Please do Contact : KERALA TRIP

Keralatrip

Feste in God's Own Country (Gottes eigenem Land), sind wahre Feierlichkeiten. Zu diesen Anlässen herrscht Größe und Pracht über den charakteristischen einfachen Lebensstil Keralas. Sei es das Landesfest in Onam oder ein Fest an einer örtlichen Kultstätte, neue Kleidung und üppige Festessen sind ein absolutes Muss für die Feierlichkeiten. Abgesehen davon, dass sie zur Belustigung dienen, sind diese Feste in Kerala traditionell Bewahrer der Kunst und Kultur dieses Landes. Ob religiös oder gesellig, traditionell oder modern, Kunstaktionen - die von dem 2000 Jahre alten Kutiyattam, bis hin zu zeitgenoessischen Buehnenshows reichen - dürfen bei einem Festival hier nicht fehlen. Blättern Sie durch den Festival-Kalender und lernen Sie mehr über die Feste, ihre Spezialitäten und Termine. Schauen Sie auch mal auf die Internetseite Festivalwiki, ein Community-Portal mit Informationen über die Feste Keralas. For more details Please Contact : KERALA TRIP

AYURVEDA - KERALA

Verj�ngungskur (Rasayana Chikitsa)KERALATRIP Erfrischt die Haut und regeneriert und stärkt alle Gewebe, um somit ideale Gesundheit und Langlebigkeit zu erreichen. Erhöht das 'Ojas' (primäre Vitalität) und verbessert das "Sattva" (geistige Klarheit) und erhöht dadurch die Resistenz des Körpers. Inklusive Kopf-und Gesichtsmassage mit medizinischen Ölen und Cremes, Ganzkörpermassagen mit pflanzlichen Ölen oder Pulver mit Hand und Fuß, innerlich verjüngende Medikamente und medizinische Dampfbäder. Kräuterbäder werden ebenfalls verwendet. Körperimmunisierung und Behandlung für Langlebigkeit (Kalkalpa Chikitsa): Dies ist eine erstklassige Heilbehandlung, die den Alterungsprozess verzögert, die Degeneration der Körperzellen blockiert und das System immunisiert. Dies beinhaltet die Aufnahme von Rasayana (spezielle Ayurveda-Medikamente und Ernährung) und umfassende Körperpflegeprogramme. Die Behandlung ist am effektivsten für beide Geschlechter, unter 50 Jahren. Schwitzen (Sweda Karma): Ein medizinisches Dampfbad reinigt den Körper von Unreinheiten, verbessert den Teint der Haut, reduziert Fett und ist für bestimmte rheumatische Erkrankungen, insbesondere bei Schmerzen, empfohlen. Kostbare Kräuter und pflanzliche Blätter werden gekocht und der Körper täglich für 10 bis 20 Minuten von Dampf umströmt. Handmassagen mit Kräuterölen oder pflanzlichen Pulvern verbessern die Durchblutung und kräftigen die Muskeln. Schlankheitskuren: Heilkräftige pflanzliche Pulver und Kräuteröl-Massagen, eine Ayurveda-Diät aus Kräutersäften usw., sind Teil des Programms. Schönheitspflege: Pflanzliche Gesichtspackungen, Kräuteröl-Massagen, Einnahme von Kräutertee etc. verbessern den Teint und verschönern den Körper. Geistiges und physisches Wohlbefinden (Meditation und Yoga). Geistige und körperliche Übungen sollen das Ego aus Körper und Geist isolieren - mit der Absicht, anhand acht Stufen des Trainings, ihre Konzentration zu schärfen, die Gesundheit zu verbessern und Seelenfrieden zu erreichen: 1. Diszipliniertes Verhalten (yama) 2. Selbstreinigung (Niyama) 3. Körperhaltungen wie z.B. der Lotussitz (Asanas) 4. Kontrolle der Atmung (Pranayama) 5. Beherrschung der Sinne (Pratyahara) 6. Die Gedanken auf ein ausgewähltes Objekt fixieren (Dharana) 7. Meditation (Dhyana) und 8. Samadhi - ein Daseinszustand in dem Sie absolute Ruhe und Wohlbefinden erfahren. Allgemeine Fitness (Panchakarma-Behandlung) Eine fünffache Behandlung für geistiges und körperliches Wohlbefinden - bringt den Körper, die Organe, den Geist, Atem und Nerven in Einklang und reinigt das Blut. Contact for More Details : KERALATRIP

KERALA TOURISM

Therapeutic Programmes KERALA TRIP Treatment for chronic headaches, insomnia, mental tension and cases of hysteria, hallucination and insanity. (Dhara) Herbal oils, medicated milk or butter milk and decoctions are poured on the forehead/whole body in a special manner. Variations include Oordhwanga Dhara (good for diseases of the eyes, ears and skin), Takra Dhara (for those suffering from memory loss, severe headache or insanity) and Sarvanga Dhara (for both head and body). Treatment to alleviate osteoarthritis, leukemia etc. (Snehapanam) Medicated ghee is given internally in a gradually increased quantity for specific periods. Treatment for dryness of nostrils, mouth and throat, severe headaches, facial paralysis and burning sensation in the head. (Sirovasti) Lukewarm herbal oils are poured into a leather cap fitted on the head for specific durations as per physician's recommendation. Treatment for spondilosis, rheumatic diseases like arthritis, paralysis, hemiplegia, nervous weaknesses and nervous disorders. (Pizhichil) Lukewarm herbal oil is applied with fresh linen all over the body by trained masseurs in a rhythmic manner for a period of 1 to 1.5 hours daily for 7 to 21 days. Treatment for diseases like hemiplegia, paralysis, obesity and certain rheumatic ailments. (Udvarthanam) Therapeutic massage with herbal powders. Treatment for musculoskeletal ailments due to trauma or accidents. (Marma Chikitsa) Treatment that works on the extremely sensitive vital points of the body (the 107 marmas). Treatment for nasal ailments. (Nasyam) Inhalation of medicated herbal preparations, decoction oils, ghee etc. to eliminate the morbid factors from the head and neck area. Treatment for ear ailments. (Karnapooranam) Medicated oils are applied to the ear for 5 to 10 minutes daily to clean as well as treat specific ailments. Preventing cataract and strengthening vision. (Tharpanam) A treatment for the eyes effective in preventing cataract and strengthening the optic nerve. Treatment for wasting of muscles, rheumatism, sports injuries, pain in the joints, emaciation of the body or parts of the body and certain kinds of skin diseases. (Njavarakizhi) The whole body is made to perspire by the external application of medicated rice packs in the form of boluses tied in muslin bags. **Please note * The ayurvedic physician will decide on a separate programme for every individual after evaluation. * Short duration treatments for minor ailments like back pain, muscular pain, etc. with herbal steam bath, spinal bath and therapeutic massages will be provided only on the advice of the physician. * Women will have female therapists for body massage and other health programmes. * Some of the programmes are not suitable for the very aged, very young (under 7) infirm, heart patients and pregnant women. * If you have a previous medical history of heart trouble, blood pressure, blood sugar, chronic skin disease or asthma, please inform your physician in advance. * Advance reservation is recommended. for More Details Please do Contact : KERALA TRIP

Kerala Tourism

Ayurveda Ayurveda - harmony of body, mind and soul Ayurveda evolved around 600 BC in India. This system of medicine stressed on the prevention of body ailments in addition to curing them. Followed by the Dravidians and Aryans alike, Ayurveda has been practised ever since. Today, it's a unique, indispensable branch of medicine - a complete naturalistic system that depends on the diagnosis of your body's humours - vata, pitta and kapha - to achieve the right balance. Ayurveda believes in the treatment of not just the affected part, but the individual as a whole. Making it the natural way to refresh you, eliminate all toxic imbalances from the body and thus regain resistance and good health. Kerala, the land of Ayurveda Kerala's equable climate, natural abundance of forests (with a wealth of herbs and medicinal plants), and the cool monsoon season (June to July and October to November) are best suited for Ayurveda's curative and restorative packages. In fact, today, Kerala is the only State in India which practises this system of medicine with absolute dedication. Monsoon, the ideal time for rejuvenation Traditional texts reveal that the monsoon is the best season for rejuvenation programmes. The atmosphere remains dust-free and cool, opening the pores of the body to the maximum, making it most receptive to herbal oils and therapy. For More Details Contact : KERALA TRIP

Houseboat -Kerala Tourism

Hausboot Machen Sie eine Bootsfahrt durch Kerala in einem Hausboot! Haben Sie schon einmal in einem Hausboot eine Bootsfahrt auf den Backwaters von Kerala unternommen? Wenn nicht, dann sollten Sie das unbedingt tun. Es ist wirklich ein wunderbares und unvergessliches Erlebnis! Die heutigen Hausboote sind riesige, sich langsam bewegende exotische Lastkähne, die für Urlaubsreisen genutzt werden und sind tatsächlich eine umgebaute Version der Kettuvallams aus alten Zeiten. Die ursprünglichen Kettuvallams dienten dem Transport von Tonnen von Reis und Gewürzen. Ein gewöhnlicher Kettuvallam kann bis zu 30 Tonnen von Kuttanad nach Kochi Port transportieren. Ein Kettuvallam wird von Kokosbast-Knoten zusammen gehalten. Bei der Konstruktion des Bootes wird kein einziger Nagel verwendet .. Das Boot besteht aus Holzbrettern des Jackfruchtbaums, die mit dem Kokosbast verbunden sind. Dies wird dann mit einem beizenden schwarzen Harz aus gekochten Cashewkernen überzogen. Bei sorgfältiger Pflege kann solch ein Kettuvallam für Generationen halten. Ein Teil der Kettuvallams wurde mit Bambus und Kokos bedeckt und dient der Besatzung als Toilette und Küche. Die Mahlzeiten wurden an Bord gekocht und mit frischem Fisch aus den Backwaters ergänzt. Als moderne LKW dieses Verkehrssystem ersetzten, fand jemand einen neuen Weg, um diese Boote, die fast alle mehr als 100 Jahre alt waren, auf dem Markt zu halten. Der Bau spezieller Zimmer für die Unterbringung Reisender, verhalf diesen Booten vom drohenden Aussterben zu der heutigen großen Beliebtheit. Heute sind sie ein vertrauter Anblick auf den Backwaters und in Alappuzha allein gibt es 500 dieser Hausboote. Beim Umbau der Kettuvallams zu Hausbooten, wird darauf geachtet, nur natürliche Produkte zu verwenden. Für das Dach werden Bambusmatten, Stöcke und das Holz des Arecanuß-Baums benutzt, Kokos-Matten und Holzbohlen für den Boden und das Holz von Kokospalmen und Kokosfasern wird für die Betten verwendet. Für die Beleuchtung werden jedoch Sonnenkollektoren verwendet. Heute verfügen die Hausboote über allen Komfort eines guten Hotels, inklusive eingerichteter Zimmer, moderner Toiletten, gemütlichem Wohnzimmer, einer Küche und sogar einem Balkon zum Angeln. Teile des geschwungenen Dachs aus Holz oder geflochtenen Palmen lassen sich öffnen, um Schatten zu bieten und ermöglichen einen freien Ausblick. Während die meisten Boote von ortsansässigen Ruderern gestakt werden, werden einige von einem 40 PS-Motor angetrieben. Boots-Züge - durch aneinanderreihen von zwei oder mehreren Hausbooten - werden auch von großen Touristengruppen genutzt. Was eine Fahrt mit dem Hausboot so zauberhaft macht, ist die atemberaubende Aussicht auf das unberührte und sonst unzugängliche ländliche Kerala, die sich Ihnen während der Fahrt bietet! Nun, wäre das nicht toll? Zur Auswahl eines Hausboot Betreibers aus den Kleinanzeigen der Hausboot Betreiberliste von Kerala Tourismus, klicken Sie bitte hier. for More Details Please Contact. www.KERALATRIP.IN

Kerala - Parambikulam

Shola Forests Shola forests are unique montane vegetation occupying temperate habitats in tropical latitude and are communities restricted to valley and depressions especially along the folds of hills. Karimala hills of this sanctuary has some resembling characteristics of this type. The forest restricted to Karimala hills, is not a true shola, according to forest type description, but it shows important characters of shola plants i.e., stunted short boled highly branched trees, clothed with mosses and other epiphytes. Woody climbers are few. There is no stratification for trees and leaves are mostly small. The species growing in this type of forests are given below. Trees: Cinnamomum sulphuratum, Euonymus indicus, Ligustrum robustum (rox burghii), Mesua indica, Symplocos cochinchinensis, etc. Epiphytes (Orchids): Lycopodium phlegmaria, Bulbophyllum fusco-purpureum, Bulbophyllum tremulum, Eria clavicaulis, Eria reticulate, Oberonia denticulata, Oberonia lindleyana, Dendrobium chlorops, Dendrobium nutans, D.viridiflora etc. Ground Vegetation: Impatiens parasitica, Peperomia tetraphylla and other species of palatable grasses are in abundance. One can witness this type of forests while trekking to the Karimala Gopuram through High Range Hiking (Hard trek) package. KERALA TRIP

KERALA TOURISM - PARAMBIKULAM

Tram way This is the story of an amazing little tramway that was functional during the 1st half of the 20 century. This tramway was laid from the plains of Chalakudy around 40 Kms of North of Cochin to Parambikulam. The lines cuts across the Western Ghats, went through lush green forests, crossed streams and rivers and was considered to be a scenic and enjoyable journey. The Tramway had a total length of around 49.5 miles. Truly this Tramway called - the Cochin State Forest Tramway was nested and webbed through the Western Ghats. These timber lines were laid for logging in the Parambikulam forests and to transport timber to Chalakudy. The valuable teak and rosewood were further shipped across many continents. The major user of timber from Cochin was the ship building industry in Clyde, UK and many Railways across the world used this timber as the sleepers. There was even a “brand” called “Cochin Teak” famous during those days. It was the great vision of Sri. Rama Varma “Rajarshi”, who ruled the state of Cochin from 1895 to 1914. Rajarshi was successful in taking the present day Cochin in to the World Map in terms of trade and Commerce. It was during Rajarshi's period the historical Cochin State Forest Tramway was laid in 1901. Originally conceived by Mr. J.C. Kolhoff, the first Conservator of Forests, Cochin, the project was implemented by Mr. V.Alwar Chetty, a Forest Officer on special duty. The initial survey and route alignment were done by British Officers. Mr. Haldwell and Mr. Floukes. The first Tramway Engineer who cleared the forests and laid the lines was Mr. R.E. Haffield. Orenstein and Koppel of Germany supplied all locomotives, rolling stock and machinery for the Tramway. P & W MacLennan of the UK supplied all bridges and culverts. Mr. K.R.Menon was the last Tramway Engineer. The Tramway was inaugurated by the Governor of Madras, Sir Arthur Oliver Villiers Russel, 2nd Baron Ampthill on 3rd October 1905. So finally this fairy tale tramway was set up in 1905 to tap resource from the forests and bring in wealth to the State Treasury of Cochin. The money was used to equip Cochin for the modern port. The Wellington Island, Roads, Bridges and Educational Institutions of Cochin were funded by this Tramway. These ambitious initiatives transformed Cochin in to a major commercial, industrial and trading Hub of Indian Peninsula. Were you aware of this fact ? Unbelievable …… isn't it Look at what the great visionary, the Maharaja of Cochin, Sir Rama Varma XV Rajarshi wrote in his autobiography about this route : “In October 1903, I made an extensive tour in the Parambikulam and Nelliyampathy forests traversing them right across. I followed the alignment adopted for my journey to Parambikulam. The discomfort of the journey was more than compensated by the magnificent scenery. Throughout the route I saw endless avenues of trees of immense girth and height and of variegated foliage... The imperial sylviculturist Mr. H.Champion wrote about this Tramway: “There is nothing like it in India. It is an engineering marvel.” Dr. Salim Ali did his research expeditions and has identified more than 100 species of birds along the entire stretch of tramway. The entire Tramway was divided in to three sections Started from Chalakudy to Anapantham, covering a distance of 21 miles. Second section was from Kavalai to Pothupara covering a distance of 6 miles. Third section was from Komalapara right upto the last point called Chinnar, now submerged under Parambikulam Reservoir. It covered for about 22.5 miles. Between sections one and two there were three inclines from Anapantham to Kavalai and between two and three there were two inclines from Pothupara to Komalapara. This inclines worked on rollers and cables with double lines. Empty wagons were rolled up while loaded wagons were pushed down along the other rails. In total it used to take 9 hours to cover the entire distance. Wow ……………. really The Cochin State Forest Tramway was an Engineering marvel. After running successfully for nearly 50 years and creating history by making Cochin a present day commercial harbour and trading centre, The Cochin State Forest Tramway was abolished in 1951 on the basis of special finance committee report. Though Cochin State Forest Tramway is an history now but one can cherish those glorious period of Cochin State Forest Tramway by witnessing some of the remnants in the form of broken iron bridges semi rusted wagons, Rail Trails, wheels, workshops, water tanks, wells etc. To trek along these trails will connect the nature with history and heritage. Hence Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary is running some very special eco-tourism package for those nature lovers who wishes to get connected with nature, history and heritage. Hence this Cochin State Forest Tramway trek for you the special persons. KERALATRIP

Kannimara Teak Click on the image to zoom Kannimara teak is one of the largest living teak tree in the world. It has an amazing girth of 6.48m and a crown height of 48.75m It is believed to be around 400 years old. According to the local tribal belief here when this tree was tried to cut down, the blood spurted out from the place of cut. This tree was being since then worshipped by the local tribes in Parambikulam as "Virgin tree". Thus the name Kannimara is given as the word ‘ Kanni’ means ‘Virgin’. This tree has been awarded ‘Mahavriksha Puraskar’ by the Government of India. More info about Kannimara Safari » kerala Trip

FULL MOON CENSUS

Witness the dining table of Parambikulam Tigers A lifetime opportunity for those who want to count the herbivorous, carnivores and nocturnal birds in one area called Anakkal Vayal popularly known as ‘dining table of Parambikulam Tigers’. This package offers a captivating nature trail for 4 Kms before finally settling down on the treetop machan. The tourist will be given data sheets, binoculars etc. for counting the rich wildlife, visiting on this grassland the night follows. The package is only for 5 days in a month ie. two days before and after the full moon night. One armed staff and two trained tribal naturalist will accompany a group of maximum 5 persons. KERALA TRIP

Agasthyakoodam - Kerala tourism.

Agasthyakoodam

Located at 60 km north east of Thiruvananthapuram , Agasthyakoodam is the 2 nd highest peak in Kerala ,its altitude is 1890m above sea level. Agasthyakoodam is respected both by Hindus and Buddhists as the mountain is believed to be home of Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara as well as of the Sage Agastya , a disciple of Shiva. You get different types of plants here in abundance at Agasthyakoodam like exotic orchids as well as medicinal herbs . Agasthya Vanam Biological Park , which was a conservation project to restore degraded trees and plant life. You can embark on a trekking tour to reach the top of the Agasthyakoodam or Agastya Malai as it is also known .It atkes two days to reach the top which is 28km away. You can do trekking here only between December-April. Agastya Malai is also a pilgrimage destination , you get to see life size sculpture of Sage Agastya here. The medicinal herbs found at Kerala Agasthyakoodam Tours are more than 2000 in number and are used as Ayurvedic medicine.Come and watch the tea gardens at the foothills in Brimore, Ponmudi and Bonacaud. The British started these during their reign in India Agasthyakoodam located in the Sahyadri range of mountains and is the second highest peak in Kerala. Located at a height of 1890 meters above sea level, Agasthyakoodam forest is abound in rare medicinal herbs and plants. This hill ranges is a bird watcher's paradise and is accessible by foot from Kotoor near Neyyar Dam.Nestled in the Sahyadri Range of the Western Ghats, Agasthyakoodam is the second highest peak in Kerala. KERALA TRIP

ARALAM FARM - TREKKING

Activitiesat ARALAM FARM - KERALAKERALA TRIP Adventurous trekking to Ambalappara Trekking to Meenmutty falls Day visit at Aralam Sanctuary Total No. of trekking package Total available days : 270 days Total No. of trekking packages: 24 days (Ambalappara) Total No. of trekking packages: 30 days (Meenmutty) Day visit: 200 days /Year (Day Visits) Monsoon camp : 4 days Book Now Adventurous trekking to Ambalappara Situation -- 25 Km away from Valayanchal Altitude -- 1489 m alone M.S.L Ambalappara is an area situated about 25 km away from Valayamchal, on hilly terrain about 1500 m above means sea level. This Alpine eco system is having century old dwarf shola vegetations and very good animal population. About 6 tourists can be accommodated in a package for 3 days along with 5 Watchers/ Guides. The trekkers will take one day to reach Ambalappara through tough terrines. The accommodation for the tourists will be arranged in Ambalappara Watch Tower, constructed for the protection of the area. As it is situated in the deep forest, this package is meant for tourists, who are adventurous and ready to take risks. By enjoying the wildness and scenic beauty tourists can spend a complete day in the deep forest. On the 3rd day return journey starts. Sighting wild animals on the way depends how soft your foot steps are and how disciplined that you are. Book Now Top Trekking to Meenmutty falls Situation:- 14 Km away from Valayamchal Meenmutty is a perennial water fall situated about 14 km away from Valayamchal, where the Asst. Wildlife Warden’s office situated. Trekking to Meenmutty enables the tourists to enjoying the scenic beauty of the rain forest, by enjoying the unpolluted air and water, by watching birds and butterflies which are endemic to the area. One day stay in the Watch Tower at Meenmutty provides you calm and cool night sleep by hearing the music of nocturnals. Book Now Top Day visit at Aralam Sanctuary Tourists want to enjoy the fresh air and water of Aralam Rain forest can opt one day visit in Aralam Sanctuary. People can hire jeep for visiting Aralam Sanctuary. Day visit will be guided by EDC guides and visitors are permitted between 8 am to 4 pm. Advance booking can be done in Wildlife Warden’s office at Iritty or Asst. Wildlife Warden’s office at Valayamchal. Day Visit in Aralam Sanctuary Category Rupees (per day) Adult 10 + 5 (EDC) / Each Children (Below 12 years) 5 + 2 (EDC) / Each Foreigners 100 + 50 (EDC) / Each Vehicle (Heavy) 150 Vehicle (Light) 75 / Each Vehicle (Others) 20 Guide 150 Video / Movie 150 Ordinary Camera 25 As per G.O (Rt) No. 609/05/F&WLD dated 11.11.2005 Book Now Top Method of Booking Advance booking of packages are preferred. Click Here Related Topic(s) Accomodation How to Reach Visitor Info : KERALATRIP

KERALA TOURISM

Reptiles ARALAM WILDLIFE SANCTUARY A recent study by Easa et.al. (1999) recorded twenty-two species of reptiles from the area of this nine species are snakes. The King cobra, Ophiophagus hannah is also found in these forests. More Details Contact : KERALA TRIP

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South Indian Moist Deciduous Forests General description These forests are of more commercial value with the deciduous trees reaching up to a height of 30-35 m. When compared to the evergreen forests, the species richness and diversity are less. Buttressed trees are rare and fluting is common. Cauliflory is rare. Evergreen species are mostly confined to the under storey. Trees are mostly with cylindrical bole and the bark peels off in flakes. Bamboos are quite frequent in natural condition. Fires are almost an annual phenomenon thus inhibiting this forest from reaching the climax stage. Ecologically this type thrives well in areas where rainfall is less than 2500 mm with a marked dry season lasting for 4 months. Floristics The principal species of this type of forest are: Albizia sp., Bombax ceiba, Dalbergia latifolia, Grewia tiliaefolia, Lagerstroemia microcarpa, Schleichera oleosa, Terminalia bellerica, Tetrameles nudiflora and others. Giant lianas like Spatholobus roxburghii, Entada pursetha etc. are very common in this forest. Frequent annual fires affect the natural regeneration of these forests leading to retrogression. Checklists: www.keralatrip.in

ARALAM Wildlife Sanctuary- Kerala Tourism

West Coast Tropical Semi Evergreen Forest General description This type is generally considered as a transitional stage from evergreen to moist deciduous and is often found at places where evergreen forests are subjected to disturbance. It is found between 600 to 800 m elevation and in some areas descends up to 500 m. Although it is a closed forest, unlike the evergreen, it is not so dense and the evergreen and deciduous species are mingled in the top storey. While the preponderance of evergreen species are more when they merge towards the wet evergreen type. Contrary is the case when the elevation descends and the forest tends to merge with the moist deciduous type. While buttressing is common, cauliflory is less marked. In most of the localities Dipterocarpus sp. predominates in the top storey making the forest Dipterocarpus dominant. This gives the forest the status of a subtype of the major semi evergreen type. Floristics Physiognomy of the top storey is a mixture of evergreen and deciduous species. The predominant evergreen species are Artocarpus heterophyllus, Bischofia javanica, Calophyllum elatum, Hopea wightiana, Mangifera indica, Mesua ferrea, Myristica dactyloides and others. The deciduous ones are Acrocarpus fraxinifolious, Bombax ceiba, Dalbergia latifolia, Dipterocarpus sp., Pterospermum rubiginosum, Toona ciliata etc. The species composition of the lower storeys, the ground flora, climbers etc., is the same as seen in the evergreen forests. In the lower elevations, where the semi-evergreen forests merge with the moist deciduous, there will be the presence of some deciduous species. www.keralatrip.in

ARALAM WILDLIFE SANCTUARY - KERALA TOURISM

Mammals KERALA TRIP - HOLIDAY MAKERS A total of 23 species of mammals were recorded from the sanctuary (Balakrishnan et.al, 1998). All the five species of primates are present in the area. Arboreal mammals other than primates seen in Aralam are the Malabar giant squirrel (Ratufa indica) and the Flying squirrel (Petaurista petaurista). The Coorg race, Ratufa indica bengalensis was also reported from the sanctuary. Other mammals in the area include the Indian Elephant, Sambar deer, Barking deer, Mouse deer, Wild boar and gaur. The Tiger and Leopard are the predators in the area. Checklist Bonnet macaque The Indian wild boar Lion tailed macaque The Indian porcupine Hanuman langur Indian pangolin Nilgiri langur Common palm civet Slender loris Otter Tiger Rat Leopard Malabar giant squirrel Indian elephant Three striped palm squirrel The Gaur Large brown flying squirrel The Sambar deer Common mongoose Barking deer Black napped hare Mouse deer

ARALAM FARM - KERALA TOURISM

Fishes KERALA TRIP - HOLIDAY MAKERS. The Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary is enriched with several streams and rivers. A survey by Shaji, et.al. (1995) has reported a total of 39 fishes from the sanctuary. The species such as Pristolepis margenata, Batasio travancoria and Pontius denisonii are endemic to Kerala. Barilius canarensis and Osteochilus thomassi are new records to the rivers. Besides these, the endangered Tor khudree also abounds in the Cheenkannipuzha. KERALA TRIP

ARALAM FARM- KERALA TOURISM

A detailed bird survey recently conducted by Sasikumar, et.al (2002) has shown a total of 188 species of birds in the sanctuary. Of these 12 species are endemic to Western Ghats and 18 species are in Schedule I of Wildlife Protection Act 1972 and 8 species are globally threatened birds(Bird Life International Red Data Book , Cambridge UK). Thirteen species included in the Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 also were recorded. Rare and endangered birds like Nilgiri Wood Pigeon Malabar Pied Hornbill Great Pied Hornbill Ceylon Frogmouth Broad billed Roller were frequenting the Indian forest. The high altitude endemic species like Black and Orange flycatcher, Kerala laughing thrush were also reported from the high lands in Ambalappara area (1450m).

ARALAM FARM- KERALA

Amphibians KERALA WILDLIFE. A faunistic survey conducted by the Radhakrishnan (1996) has reported 16 amphibians from the sanctuary. Recently Abraham and Easa (1999) added five more species to this list. Among the 23 species, Micrixalus nudis, Rana curtipes, Philautus pulcherrimus and Rhacophorus malabaricus are endemic to Western Ghats Checklist Amphibians (52 Kb)

ARALAM WILDLIFE SANCTUARY - KERALA.

ARALAM WILDLIFE SANCTUARY -Geology, Rock & Soil Geologically the area can be grouped into two main rock types. Laterites Laterite is a ferruginous, reddish, soft rock with irregular galleries filled with yellow clay, which hardens on exposure to atmospheric agencies. Laterite formation is attributed to monsoon conditions repeated through ages. Decomposition of gneiss and partial rearrangement by the mechanical action of water give rise to lateritic rocks. Crystalline rocks The mountains of the Western Ghats are composed of ancient crystalline and metamorphic rocks of Achaean age, mainly quartzose gneiss. The principal rock types are granites and their gneissic variations. The gneissic rocks are biotite gneiss, their chief constituents being quartz, felspar, biotite and garnet. The main feature of gneiss in the Western Ghats is the tendency to weather or decompose, generally into white, yellow or red felsparic clayey rocks, which in many places often very extensively, become lateritic. The soil types met with in the sanctuary are mainly laterite soils, red soils and forest and hill soils. Lateritic and red soils are found within the lower reaches where the soil depth is fairly good. As the elevation increases the soil changes to forest and hill type. Also, at the lower reaches, soil contains appreciable amounts of gravel, which indicates good internal drainage. The accumulation of humus in the topsoil gives it dark reddish brown to dark brown colour, which changes to red in the sub soil. The surface soil has granular structure, which favours good root development. The soil is predominantly non-calcareous in character and acidic in reaction.

ARALAM WILDLIFE SANCTUARY - KERALA.

The sanctuary land slopes from the East to West. This is evident from the natural drainage system. The terrain is rugged in most places with hillocks. Altitude ranges from 60 m to 1489 m. above MSL over a horizontal profile less than 8 km, suggesting steep slopes.

ARALAM WILDLIFE SANCTUARY - KERALA

ARALAM FARM Water Sources The sanctuary area exhibits slope from east to west. Cheenkannipuzha forms the main drainage system on the southern side, which flows to west. Narikadavuthodu, Kurukkathodu and Meenmuttithode, from the northern upper reaches flow southwards to join Cheenkannipuzha. A network of small streamlets joins this river at different points from east to west including the Chavachithode in the eastern boundary. On the north western side water drains to Urittipuzha. FOR MORE DETAILS

Aralam Farm - Kerala

Aralam Kerala Tourism We have No strobulantaz to boast about ... No blue hills to colour your dreams ... But our hills are still claded with huge Evergreen trees of Tropical Evergreen forests ... Rivers are still crystal clear and unpolluted ... Some Facts .. Formation of Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary GO(P) 300/84 dated 15.10.84 Formation of Aralam Wildlife Division GO(MS) 36/98 dated 27.05.1998 Boundaries North – Karnataka State East -- Wayanad district South – Kottiyoor RF and Cheenkannipuzha West – Central State Farm Aralam Extent 55 Sq Km (5500 Ha) Situation Northern most protected area of Kerala and situated in South east Kannur District. Location Latitude 110 541 and 110 591 North Longitude 750 471 and 750 871 East Approach 20 Km away from Iritty Nearest Railway Station Thalassery & Kannur Some Challeneges .. Fragmentation of forest habitat is going to be the biggest challenge to biodiversity conservation in Kerala in the forthcoming decades. In this context, forests of Aralam wildlife sanctuary assume importance on the following grounds. Forests of Aralam and adjacent areas represent the only compact protected patch of vegetation belonging to the unique vegetation sub-type viz; the Dipterocarpus-Messua-Palaquium sub-type in Kerala. The edaphic conditions of the region are distinct from those of the southern reaches. Aralam is a contiguous block of forests stretching to the adjacent Wayanad-Brahmagiri and Wayanad northern slopes. The forests are also contiguous with the protected areas of the Karnataka state namely the Brahmagiri Wildlife Sanctuary and also with the forests of Coorg and assume much importance in meta population management especially with regard to the case of larger mammals such as Gaur, Elephant, Tiger and endemic primates such as Lion-tailed macaque, and Nilgiri Langur. The Cheenkannipuzha, a major tributary to the Valapattanam River originates from the forests of Aralam and this river is very crucial in controlling the Agro-Economy and Fishery- Economy of Kannur District. Perennial nature of the river is very much depended on the watershed services provided by the Aralam forests. It is the only protected stretch of forests in the district and since man-wildlife conflict is a mounting problem in the region, due to the presence of larger fauna, Aralam wildlife sanctuary has tremendous scope in the field of Conservation, Education, Research and creating environmental awareness. Aralam sanctuary forms a vital link in the network of protected areas stretching from north to south along the Western Ghats. Aralam forests with its local specialized ecological niche support a variety of endemic species, which are in the verge of extinction. More details :

Aralam Wild life Sanctuary- Kerala

Kerala Trip - Kerala Tourism Aralam wildlife sanctuary is the northernmost protected area of Kerala state, situated in the southeast part of Kannur District. It lies between 11° 54 and 11° 59 North latitude and 75° 47 and 75° 57 East longitude. The sanctuary area falls in Aralam, Kelakam and Kottiyoor revenue villages and is located in the Northwest slopes of Western Ghats contiguous with the forests of Coorg (Kodagu) district of Karnataka state. The PA (Protected Area) is comprised of Aralam Range, the only Range of Aralam wildlife division, which is part of Northern Wildlife Circle (Northern Region) Palakkad. The extent of the sanctuary is 55 km2 . The sanctuary was constituted in the year 1984 as per GO (P) 300/84/AD dated 15-10-84. It was formed by carving out areas from the Odanthode Malavaram of Thalassery special division which was an erstwhile private forest, subsequently taken over by Govt. as per the provisions of the Kerala Private Forests (Vesting and assignment) Act 1971 and from the Kottiyoor RF of Wayanad Forest Division. The Vested Forest portion of the sanctuary is 32.64 km2 and the 22.36 km2 is part of Kottiyoor RF (Reserved Forest). Till 30.6.98 this sanctuary was a Range in Wayanad Wildlife Division. It started functioning as an independent wildlife division since 1.7.98 as per GO (MS) 36/98 dated 27.5.98. In the First Management Plan the entire area was divided in to two zones viz: the Core Zone and the Buffer Zone.

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Birds 1 Total No. of Birds recorded in the Sanctuary 268 2 No. of species listed as rare 134 3 Birds endemic to Western Ghats in Parambikulam 12 (out of total 16 endemics) Birds of very high importance in Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary 1 Lesser adjustant 2 Grey headed fishing eagle 3 Peninsular bay owl 4 Broad billed roller 5 Great pied hornbill 6 Lesser Grey-headed Fish Eagle 7 Great Black Woodpecker 8 Malabar Pied Hornbill 9 Black-capped Kingfisher 10 Ceylon Frogmouth 11 Nilgiri Wood Pigeon 12 Malay Night-Heron 13 Oriental Darter -------------- kerala trip kerala tourism

Important Mammals found in Parambikulam 1 Nilgiri Langur. Presbytis johni Local Name : Kari Manthi (Tamil), Karin korangan (Malayalam), Kurri korunga (Badaga, Kurumba), Turuni kodan (Toda). Slim and black, this Langur is the common rainforest monkey of the Southern Western Ghats. It has yellow-tinted hair on its head and is often confused with the stockier Lion - Tailed Macaque which has an ashy gray mane. Also, the Nilgiri Langur’s tail is longer. Females have a white patch on the inside of their thighs. Newborns are pink with reddish hair. It is hunted extensively for alleged medicinal properties. Behavior : The characteristic “hoo-hoo” call of the adult male langur can be heard mostly at down and sometimes at dusk. - Size : Total body length : 60 - 80 cm. Weight : 11 - 14 Kg - Habitat : Primarily rainforests, also deciduous patches, plantations, and edges of estates. - Best seen at Anamalai WLS (Tamil Nadu), Periyar NP (Kerala). - Conservation threats : Habitat loss and poaching. 2 Lion Tailed Macaque. Macaca silenus Local Name : Singalika (Kannada), Nella manthi, Singhawalan, Neelan (Malayalam), Arakkan, Singhaval manthi (Tamil). This endangered Monkey of evergreen forests may be distinguished from the other black of Southern India, the Nilgiri Langur, by its grey facial mane and much shorter, tufted tail that looks like a lion’s tail. The Lion-Tailed Macaque is a medium to large sized macaque, which is very arboreal in its natural undisturbed habitat. It moves in a characteristic slow motion style on tree tops. - Behavior : The call of this monkey sounds like a “coyeh” or “coo”. - Size : Total body length : 46 – 60 cm. Weight : 6 – 8Kg. - Habitat : Dense evergreen and semi evergreen forests. - Best seen at : Silent Valley National Park (Kerala), Palakkad and Anamalai WLS (Tamil Nadu). - Conservation threats : Habitat loss and poaching. 3 Tiger. Panthera tigris Local Name : Bagh, Sher (Hindi), Bagh (Bengali.Assamese), Pedda puli (Telugu), Patery Wagh (Marathi), Vengai Puli (Tamil), Kaduva, Naree (Malayalam), Hoolee (Kannada), Bagh (Oriya). Undoubtedly the most charismatic animal of India, the majestic Tiger has an orange coat patterned with broad black stripes. It has black ears, each with a winking white spot on the black, powerful forepaws and a long banded tail. The Indian Tiger is one of five races or sub-species distributed through Asia. Today, shrinking Tiger numbers and habitat are major conservation issues. It is estimated that there are only 3,750 – 4,000 tigers left in India, comprising about 65% of the world’s population. This makes the national animal of India a very endangered species. - Behavior : The Tiger prefers to hunt large deer, especially Sambar, where available. Quite adaptable, it can survive on smaller prey, or even fish in mangroves. It may attack humans if prey is unavailable or if it is old or injured. This behavior has earned it the fearsome title of man-eater, although other mammals such as Leopard or the Elephant take far more human lives. - Size : Total body length : 2.6 – 3m. Weight : 135 – 230 kg. - Habitat : Deciduous, thorn and evergreen forests, mangroves and grassland. - Best seen at : Ranthambhor NP (Rajasthan) and Bandhavgarh NP (Madhya Pradesh) - Conservation Threats : Poaching, habitat loss, fragmentation and decline in prey. 4 Leopard. Panthera pardus Local Name : Tendua, Chita, Guldar (Hindi), Diblya Wagh (Marathi), Chirathe (Kannada), Chirutai puli (Telugu/Tamil), Pulli Puli (Malayalam), Cheeta bagh (Bengali), Kelral (Mizo), Teku (Naga), Khare-suh (Kashmir), Dipdo (Gujarathi), Pendra (Oriya). The most adaptable big Cat of the Indian subcontinent, the Leopard has a clear yellow coat marked with black rosettes. It has a small spotted head with powerful jaws and a long tail and its underside is white. The colour of the coat varies considerably in intensity from gold to tawny in commoner forms. The rasping call of the Leopard (called “sawing” because it resembles the sound of wood being sawed) is a familiar nocturnal call in the Indian jungle. Behavior : Leopard manage to co-exist with Tigers by hunting smaller prey and hauling the carcasses up trees. They prey upon cattle, dogs and even children, thus earning notoriety as man – eaters. As they are often sighted near habitation in rural India, the Leopard is mistakenly considered to be a common species. Size : Total body length : 1.85 – 2.15 m. Weight : 39 – 68 Kg. Habitat : Deciduous and evergreen forests, scrub jungle, open country and fringes of human habitation. Best seen at : Sanjay Gandhi NP, Borivili NP (Maharashtra), and Gir NP (Gujarat). Conservation Threats : Poaching, habitat loss, human – animal conflict and decline in prey species. 5 Indian Elephant. Elephas maximus Local Name : Hathi (Hindi/Bengali/Assamese), Yanai (Tamil), Aana (Malayalam), Aane (Kannada), Yenugu (Telugu). The largest land mammal in India, the Asian Elephant’s grey wrinkled skin, long trunk and sail – like ears make it one of the most easily recognized animals. It is revered by Hindus due to its association with the God Ganesha. The Asian Elephant is slightly smaller than the African Savanna Elephant and differs from it anatomically in many ways. The Asian Elephant has a rounded or humped back as opposed to the saddle – shaped one of the African Elephant. Its trunk ends in one tip or “finger” as opposed to two, it has a two domed forehead, and its ears are smaller in size. Only male Asian Elephants have large tusks, while females have very small dental protuberances called “tusks”. Some males, called “makhnas”, are tuskless and can be distinguished from adult females by the penis bulge below the tail. Behavior : Elephants migrate over long distances in search of food and water, or for security, and use the same forest corridors for many hundreds of years. If these corridors are blocked, they enter human settlements. Elephants are also attracted to human settlements by crop or by domestic alcohol distilleries that they can smell from miles away. The resulting human – elephant conflict is a major threat to the survival of the species. Size : Height at shoulder – 245 – 275 m. Weight : 3000 Kg Habitat : Mixed deciduous and evergreen forests, scrub and grassland. Best seen at : Nagarhole NP (Karnataka) and Corbett NP (Uttaranchal). Conservation Threats : Poaching, habitat loss and human animal conflict. 6 The Gaur. Bos gaurus Local Name : Gaur (Hindi), Gawa (Marathi), Kadu kona, Kadu emmai (Kannada), Kattu Pothu, Kattee (Malayalam), Methun (Assamese), Kattu madu (Tamil). The largest bovine in the world, the Gaur is often mistakenly called the Indian Bison although it is not related to the North American Bison. It has a massive head, deep chest and muscular shoulder ridge. Adult males are glossy black, while the young and females are coffee-brown. The newborn calf changes colour from golden yellow to fawn, light brown and then red brown. Behaviour : Very shy and calm for a creature of its size, the Gaur rarely attacks unless tormented, and in most parts of South India will allow humans to approach very close. It has an acute sense of smell. If a herd is taken by surprise, it might start a stampede with calve getting run over in the process. Size : Height at shoulder – 165 – 195 cm. Weight : 800 – 1200 Kg. Habitat : Mixed deciduous, scrub and evergreen hill forests and grassland. Best seen at : Mudumalai NP (Tamil Nadu) and Bandipur NP (Karnataka). Conservation Threats : Poaching, habitat loss, cattle grazing and disease. 7 Nilgiri Tahr. Hermitragus hylocrius Local Name : Vara Aadu (Malayalam), Varai aadu (Tamil). A handsome goat, the male Nilgiri Tahr looks like a shorn version of its close cousin, the male Himalayan Tahr, without the following mane and hair of its Northern relative. The short grayish – brown coat of the females and young bucks is dark brown tending to blue – black in adult males, with a whitish saddle-shaped patch across the shoulders and back. The throat and abdomen are white. The borns of both male and female are parallel and curve backwards. Behaviour : While the herd rests in the hot afternoon hours, a very conspicuous sentinel stands guard. Size : Height at shoulder – 100 – 110 cm. Habitat : Montane grassland and rocky crags, interspersed with shola forests. Best seen at : Eravikulam NP (Kerala) Conservation Threats : Poaching and habitat disturbance. 8 The Sloth Bear. Melursus ursinus Local Name : Bhalu (Hindi), Reech (Gujarati), Asval (Marathi), Karadi (Malayalam/Tamil/Kannada), Elugu banti (Telugu), Bhalluk (Bengali). This widespread Indian Bear is familiar as a performing bear in the streets. A shaggy black animal with a long snout and lumbering gait, it can be lethal if confronted. The Sloth Bear is dim-sighted and rears up on its hind legs and bites or claws when alarmed. Behaviour : This bear sucks up termites and ants through the gap caused by its missing front incisors. Its long claws are used to tear up termite mounds. Size : Total body length : 140 – 170 cm.; Weight : 65 – 145 Kg. Habitat : Deciduous forest, scrub and grassland. Best seen at : Mudumalai WLS (Tamil Nadu) and Melghat NP (Maharashtra). Conservation Threats : Habitat loss and poaching. 9 Nilgiri Marten. Martes gwatkinsi THE LARGEST AND RAREST Indian marten, the Nilgiri Marten is considered by some to be a sub- species of the Yellow-throated Marten. It varies from dark brown to black, has a pale yellow to yellowish- orange neck, and a fiat skull with a concave depression on its forehead. SIZE Total body length: 55-65cm. Weight: 2 kg. HABITAT AND OCCURRENCE Grassland, shola, deciduous, and evergreen forests of W Ghats, BEST SEEN AT Eravikulam NP (Kerala). 10 Sambar. Cervus unicolor LOCAL NAME: Tekha .(Naga), Sambar (Hindi/Marathi/Bengali), Kaduve (Kannada), Kadama (Kodava), Kadaa maan (Tamil), Kezha maan, Mlave (Malayalam), Khar pohu (Assamese), Sabar (Gujarati), Sazuk (Mizo), Kadathi (Telegu). A TYPICAL FOREST DEER with a shaggy, dark brown coat, and large spreading antlers, the Sambar is India's largest deer. Females are lighter and less shaggy. The adult males are largest in Central India and on account of their size, they form the preferred prey base of tigers. This is the only widespread large forest deer -the other three species (see p. 42-43) are endangered and restricted in their range. - BEHAVIOUR The Sambar alarm call is a loud "dhonk". Mostly browsers, Sambar are rarely seen grazing. They often feed in shallow water and when chased by predators such as dholes, they take to water, splashing loudly with their hooves to confuse their attacker. Stags fight each other during rutting season for access to females. During the rut stags wallow like cattle and pigs. - SIZE Height at shoulder: 150cm. Weight: 225-320kg. - HABITAT Mixed deciduous forest and grassland scrub. - BEST SEEN AT Sariska and Ranthambhor NPs (Rajasthan). - CONSERVATION THREATS Poaching, habitat loss, and disease. 11 Small Travancore Flying Squirrel. Petinomys fuscocapillus A RARE SPECIES, the Travancore Squirrel has yellowish-white undersides, with this colour extending to the cheeks, and white hairs fringing its wing membrane. The seven species of Petinomys found in South and Southeast Asia are placed in a separate genus due to the peculiar honeycombed bones in their ears. SIZE HBL: 30cm; tail: 25 cm HABITAT AND OCCURRENCE Evergreen forests along Western Ghats: Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, and possibly Goa. BEST SEEN AT Anamalai NP (Tamil Nadu), Periyar (Kerala). Species of very high importance in Parambikulam 1 Gaur - Flagship mammal of Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary 2 Lion Tailed Macaque - Endemic to Western Ghat 3 Nilgiri Tahr - Endemic to Western Ghat Kerala trip Kerala Tourism

Paramkbikulam National Park - Kerala Tourism.

The sanctuary is endowed with very rich and diverse wildlife due to the mosaic pattern of vegetation. The ecotones (edge effects) created at the interspersion of different vegetation types are the vital wildlife habitats. Such junctions are plenty in this sanctuary and are well distributed as well. Same is the case with water resources constituted by the reservoirs, rivers and streams. The abundant herbivore population present in the sanctuary in turn support a substancial population of predators like tiger and leopard. In a nutshell, following is the faunal diversity available in this sanctuary in various catagories. Category Species Mammals 39 Amphibians 16 Birds 268 Reptiles 61 Fish 47 Insects 1049 Butterflies 124 Some interesting facts Tiger (Panthera tigris) Tiger, the charismatic predator of the jungle, delineates its own territory and lives within that. The territory is marked by urinating on the trees and rocks along the boundary. Trespass by another male usually ends up in conflict which turns into a bloody battle sometimes. The tigresses in a family may have overlapping territories within the male's territory. Even though tiger is a powerful predator with plenty of tactics, it is observed that only one in twenty attempts of hunting is really successful. Leopard or Panther and Cheetah Leopard and Panther are one and the same and its zoological name is Panthera pardus. Black Panther is not a separate species. Blackness, the general darkening of colour is due to the excessive presence of a substance called Melanin which intensifies pigmentation. The production of melanin is increased where there is a combination of high temperature, humidity and reduced light. Both black and normal-coloured cubs may be produced in the same litter. They are prevalent in the rain-swept Equatorial forests south of Malaya. Cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) also known as hunting leopard is different from the ordinary leopard and distinct. The distinguishing features are small round head, slim waist line, prominent tear marks and solid close-set individual black spots. They are more common in Africa. It is supposed to be extinct in India. Indian Wild Dog or Dhole The Wild Dogs (Cuon alpinus) are social animals moving about in 'Packs'. The pack may be one family or aggregation of several families. In packs they are capable of hunting larger prey and the way of killing is gruesome. They are capable of eating meat several times their body weight. Wild dogs generally communicate with each other with a peculiar 'whistling' cry and they don't bark like the common dogs. Primates (Apes, Monkeys and Lemurs) 'Fur-picking', the universal habit among the apes and monkeys is not a hunt for lice or fleas. They are naturally remarkably free from these vermin. On the contrary it is a means of social communication between members of the troop (a group of monkeys) and to develop strong social bond. Hoolock Gibbon (Hylobates hoolock) is the only ape found in India. Rest of the monkeys are all macaques and langurs Elephant (Elephas maximus) Elephants are the largest mammal living on land. Elephants are of two namely African Elephant and Asiatic Difference between African and Asian Elephants African Elephant Asian Elephant Larger than Asian Elephant Smaller than African Elephant Both male and female possess tusks Only male possess tusks Ears are larger than Asian Elephants Ears are smaller than African Elephants Highest point is the Head Highest point is the back Difficult to get tamed Can be tamed easily Elephant is facing a threat to its life from poachers due to the fact that it possesses valuable ivory.The ivory of elephant is not a distinct organ but an extension and modification of its teeth, the upper incisors. Bison and Gaur The Gaur in our forests are generally wrongly referred to as Bison which is a misnomer. What we see in Indian forests is Gaur (Bos gaurus) and not Bison. Gaur is also known as Indian Bison. Gaur is a wild relative of our domestic cows and not buffaloes. Horns and Antlers Horns are different from antlers. Horns are external in origin. It is hollow sheath covering the bony core arising from the skull. They persist throughout life. They may wear and flake off as new horn grows below. Horns are characteristic of Bovidae, the cows and buffaloes family. Both the sexes sport horns, the only difference being that horns of male are massive and that of the females are smaller and less massive. Antlers are solid horns that are skeletal in origin. They are shed when old and new antlers grow. Antlers are possessed by Cervids, members of the deer family. Only the males possess antlers.

Tribes- Parambikulam National Park - Kerala.

Indigenous Knowledge of the tribes Kerala Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary with its diverse vegetation types is a treasure trove of medicinal plants The tribes inhabiting this sanctuary have known and been using several of these medicinal herbs since a very long time. This practice has so far remained secretive and guarded within a family mostly. Though this ethno-botanical knowledge has been passed on from generation to generation, much of it has been forgotten due to non-practice. Owing to these reasons, documenting the indigenous knowledge of the tribes has always been difficult. However attempts are now made to compile and document the information offered by the traditional medical practitioners and the elders in the tribal settlements. Here, we shall acknowledge and appreciate the vastness and depth of ethno-medicinal knowledge of the tribes. Let us also make sure that no one exploits these innocent people for the knowledge that they possess which might provide the cure for the presently incurable maladies of the world. Kerala Trip Kerala Tourism

Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary

Tribal Heritage Kerala Tourism Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary is the home of 4 different indigenous communities viz., Kadar, Malasar, Muduvar and Malamalasar. It was during 1906 Sri. Ananthakrishna Iyer, the ethnographer for the Dewan of Cochin officially enlisted these communities. Linguistically these communities are classified as Dravidian. These four ethnic groups are settled in six colonies. The other human settlement is known as P.A.P. colony which came into existence during the 1950's and 1960's during the construction of three dams for Parambikulam-Aliyar Project which is an inter-state multipurpose project. The ethnic identity and the population of tribes inhabiting each settlement are given below. Location of the Settlement Ethnic Identity Families Individuals Area of the Settlement Sungam Malasar tribe 80 309 3.07 Ha Pooppara Muduva tribe 39 167 24.00 Ha Fifth colony, Parambikulam Malamalasar tribe 14 55 1.38 Ha Kuriarkutty Kadar tribe 58 253 5.09 Ha Earthdam colony Kadar tribe 32 120 0.33 Ha Kadas colony Kadar tribe 54 206 0.40 Ha Kadar Kadar otherwise known as "Kadir" (Thurston, 1906) is the primitive inhabitants of Anamalai hills. They are short statured, dark skinned and platyrhined (flat nosed). Their original language is a mixture of Tamil and Malayalam. Traditionally they used to live in neatly constructed bamboo huts, thatched with teak leaves. According to Thurston (1906), they are nomadic. Though their main livelihood was collection of NWFP, they had been working for the Forest Department since a long time. They are non vegetarian by habit but cycas seeds are frequently consumed. They never used to rear cattle and consume a milk product which is changed now. In Kadar community traditionally the bridegroom gave dowry to the bride and widow remarriage was never permitted. Polygamy used to be the practice. Worship of stone images was practiced mainly that of the goddess "Kali". Kadars used to bury the dead. Malasar Malasar used to live in small hamlets abutting the forest on the hills of Anamalai, Palakkad and Darapuram. They speak a mixture of Tamil and Malayalam. Wild yam was their staple food and now they prefer rice. They are known to cultivate ragi and other minor millets. They worship a local god named "Mallung, Kali and Mariamman" to whom they used to sacrifice goats once a year in April. Their hamlets are known as "pathis" with a headman called vendari who rules the hamlets with the help of a panchayat. Malasars live at a lower elevation than the Malamalasar and Kadars. Malasars are sturdier in build but do not have the characteristic features of Hill men (Thurston, 1906). Malasars traditionally were NWFP collectors and also used to work as labours. Adult marriage used to be norm. However, child marriage was not prohibited. Usually the dead along with their personal effects are buried. Ceremonies marking attainment of puberty are celebrated Muduva The Muduva also known as "Mudugar" are traditional cultivators living in the hills of Anamalais and Idukki areas. They practiced slash and burn cultivation. They speak a dialect closely related to Tamil with few Malayalam works. It is believed that Muduvas previously lived in the plains but driven to the hills by the Muhammaden invaders towards the end of 18th century. Thurston (1906) found a mixture of west coast and east coast cultures in them. Their craftsmanship with bamboo is evident from their neat and flat roofed huts. Muduva community has a headman known as Mooppan assisted by an informal panchayat body. The office of the Mooppan is hereditary. Muduvas are known as highly superstitious who believe in sorcery and witchcraft even though they do not practice them. Polygamy and polyandry were permitted in the past but they practice strict monogamy now. Widow re-marriage is permitted. The community follows Hinduism and their chief god is "Pazhaniandavar". The dead are usually buried. Malamalasar Malamalasar are also known as "Mahamalasar" and "Malaimalasar" as noted in the Encyclopaedia of Indian Tribes (1989) and "Malamanushyar" (Susmita and Sekhar, 2001). They are taller than Malasar, well built, dark brown and have prominent nose and thin lips. They are generally a nomadic tribe who shift frequently within a small space. They used to live in fragile huts called "Chalai" located in rock shelters/caves. Their livelihood was traditionally based on NWFP collection. They live as nuclear families and the son(s) inherit the father's property. They prefer cross cousin marriage. Monogamy is the norm. Attainment of puberty is celebrated. In the Encyclopaedia of Indian Tribes (1989), it is stated that the Malamalasars neither bury nor cremate the dead. Instead the corpse is bundled in mats and left deep in the forests to be disposed off by the wildlife. They speak an inferior dialect of Tamil. They are still primitive and have not taken to agriculture and they do not worship any specific god. One of first ever website for a tribal community is dedicated to this people.

Parambikulam Wild Life Sanctuary

For effective management of the sanctuary, the area has been divided into three major zones viz., core zone, buffer zone and tourism zone. The zones are made based on the parameters such as biodiversity indices, improvement in vegetation profile and ease of management. There are three zones namely Core Zone Buffer Zone Toursism Zone Core Zone The objective of management of the core zone is to preserve it as undisturbed natural habitat. Activities permitted Total protection against all forms of biotic interferences shall be ensured. Only scientific studies and research activities with proper sanction without destructive sampling techniques shall be permitted. Fuel wood collection and NWFP collection are prohibited. Buffer Zone Buffer zone will be managed for improving the habitat with rigid protection and for restoring naturalness to the teak plantations so that they support better floral and faunal diversity. After achieving the desired level of diversity, the area shall be upgraded into core zone . Activities permitted Improving natural regeneration status in the degraded natural moist deciduous and dry deciduous forests by augmentation. Meeting of Fuel wood requirements of local tribal population Collection of small quantities of NWFP for sustaining the the tribal hamlets. Tourism Zone This zone is to provide educative experience regarding nature and wildlife conservation to the discerning tourists. Also to provide livelihood opportunities to the dependent tribal communities through Ecotourism activities organized by local tribal community based Eco Development Committees. Kerala Trip Kerala Tourism

Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary

Terrain & Geomorphology The sanctuary lies in between the Anamalai hills and Nelliampathy hills. Much of the sanctuary is part of Anamalai hills with peaks up to 1,438m (Karimala Gopuram) in the southern boundary of the sanctuary, 1,120m (Vengoli malai) in the eastern boundary, 1,010m (Puliyarapadam) in the west and 1,290m (Pandaravarai peak) in the north. Nelliampathy hills that lies in the north scale down and opens up itself at a place called Thoothampara, just abutting the northern boundary of the sanctuary which provides a natural opening through the Nelliampathy hills from Anamalai hills, at an average elevation of 600m above mean sea level. From the south western perspective, where, Parambikulam Ar and Sholai Ar meet at a point where the elevation is 473m (the second lowest point in the sanctuary), to form Chalakkudy river, the sanctuary appears as a completely tilted drainage basin that drains to this point, except for a little portion in the north, where the drainage is towards east. Climate & Rain fall Temperature in the sanctuary is 15.30˚C. Absolute extreme range of temperature in the sanctuary is 32.8˚C. However, March is the hottest month with mean monthly temperature of 25.74˚C and January the coolest month with 21.2˚C. Temperature condition prevailing in the sanctuary is influenced by normal lapse rate due to which every 100m of ascent from MSL will experience a fall of 0.65˚C in temperature. Though the sanctuary is blessed with rain during both North West monsoon and North East monsoon, the former contributes maximum to the total precipitation recorded in the sanctuary. In addition, pre monsoon showers are felt during April and May. Rivers Karappara, Kuriarkutty Kerala Trip Kerala Tourism

Pambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary.

During the 19th century , the forests of Parambikulam were in two broad administrative units viz., Sungam Forest Reserve and Parambikulam Forest Reserve. Porter, in 1886 wrote the first ever plan to manage the Sungam Forest Reserve. Heavy exploitation of forests for valuable timber started then. Teak planting began in Parambikulam during 1921 and in 1983 was the last plantation raised. Sungam Forest Reserve was administratively the Sungam Range of erstwhile Nemmara Forest Division and Parambikulam Forest Reserve was the Parambikulam Range. One of the major milestones was the introduction of the tram way in 1907. It was designed to exploit the forests and remove valuable timber to Chalakkudy wherefrom it could be transported by road. However, the Special Financial Committee abolished it in 1951. Based on P.Narayanan Nair's plan, a special Teak Plantation Division was constituted from Parambikulam Forest Reserve in 1962. By then the Sungam Forest Reserve was declared as Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary (30 sq. miles) under the administrative control of State Wildlife Preservation Officer, Peermedu. Later in 1973, the Teak Plantation Division was dissolved and merged with the already notified sanctuary and a total area of 271 sq. km under the dual control of DFO, TP division and DFO, Nemmara. In 1985, the sanctuary was administratively reorganized and it took the present shape and extent of 285 sq. km. Kerala Trip Kerala Tourism

Parambikulam wildlife Sanctuary Tucked away in the valley between the Anamalai ranges of Tamil Nadu and the Nelliampathy ranges of Kerala on the majestic Western Ghats is the Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary.This virgin valley that is the pride of Palakkad district is a glorious tribute to untouched nature.The reservoir harbours several varieties of aquatic fauna including mugger crocodiles that are often seen sunning on its banks. Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary is the most protected ecological piece of Anamalai sub unit of Western Ghats, surrounded on all sides by protected areas and sanctuaries of Kerala and Tamil Nadu, the sanctuary is endowed with a peninsular flora and fauna which are excellently conserved due to total protection and minimal human interferences. The sanctuary being a major ecological continuum from Peechhi to Eravikulam through Anamalai aids the large viable populations of wildlife. It is the home ground for different races of indigenous people who are as well an integral part of the prevailing harmonious ecosystem. The thick, opulent habitat of the sanctuary with ample water supplys make it an abode for wildlife and there by for tourist who can have treasured memories of animal sightings and that of being in the lap of mother nature Western Ghats is one of the world’s 34 bio diversity hotspots. While considering the abundance of Wildlife and the adorable beauty of Nature, Parambikulam Wildlife Sanctuary is perhaps the most attractive piece of wilderness in the entire stretch of Western Ghats. Thus it is popularly revered as ‘Nature’s own abode’. It has a total area of 285 Sq. Kms. Kerala Trip Kerala Tourism

Kerala Trip

Adimali to Anakkulam: a night trip Kerala Trip Trekking/ Idukki/ Anakkulam Pachyderms gambol and frolic near a watering hole... When heard about it, it seems like a state of trance, but when seen it was as beautiful as a dream. A place where pachyderms come in herds to make merry in the water when the jungle and land stand bathed in moon light. Ten or twelve elephants come one behind another to have a shower here. After one enjoys the shower the next ventures for the same. We can sit on the banks enjoying the scene. They enjoy the shower in peace unmindful of the surroundings. They wash their calves, sometimes engaging in little quarrels, pushing others, but that won't last long. When they finish their fun of bathing and playing, they return peacefully into the darkness of the jungles. A picture, which would never fade when the night and moon falls. On hearing about Anakkulam, it seemed like a beautiful dream of an imaginator. The journey which we began with the information we got from others was also accompanied by our own imaginations. On a pournami day the journey began into the forests in Mankulam via Adimali. We reached Adimali by noon. We first met Mankulam DFO Induchoodan. He detailed about the specialties of Anakkulam and Mankulam. Forester Joy and driver Sajeev accompanied us. We proceeded from Adimali via Munnar road. From Kallar we turned left which was 16 km to Mankulam. The journey from Mankulam to Kuwait city was good enough. Then we preferred a jeep ride as the road was in bad shape. When we reached Anakkulam after that ordeal, it was 4 pm. Due to cloudy weather, the forest also looked grim. Then a sudden lightning and shower burst upon us. The face of forest officers looked gloomy as they said that if it rains, the pachyderms won't prefer a shower. Our photographer Saji abused the rain saying that ``after his camera was taken from pooja he thought that the first picture that he clicked would be from Anakkulam. All wish went futile,' he complained. We went for sleep after relishing the food of rice, chicken curry and chakkapuzhukku prepared by Ramani Chechi who is an employee of the forest department. Though the rains stopped, the mountain mist filled the air. When the time was 10.45 night, forester Joseph woke us. 'Hey look, pachyderms have come, wake up.'' The sleep vanished from us. We walked towards Anakkulam with the camera and a torch. We heard sounds of legs being splashed in water, quarrels and trumpetings which were creating panic in the area. Though it was moon-lit night, the light was dim in the mist. Though we lighted the torch, the light split midway. Though the natives said one can go even near elephants, we were feeling scared. They also said that any of the killer elephants would turn peaceful here. Nothing was clear when looked through camera too. We clicked some pictures but when scanning it there were only black figures. At last we woke up the driver Sajeev and asked him to come in the jeep. Jeep's engine was then stopped and turned on its headlights. The camera flashed in the light of the jeep as this beautiful scene was the rarest of the rare. A mother elephant was teaching its calf to drink water with its trunk. A big elephant was lying in the water without moving an inch. One was trying to distance another one and he was trumpeting in anger. Bubbles burst out when they moved the round stones with legs. The fight to grab these bubbles turned naughty some times. The photo shoot which began at 11 pm concluded at 12. Due to rain, only this herd came, otherwise more pachyderms would have come, said forest guard Babu. ``Still you people are fortunate as we never hoped that they would come in such an atmosphere. It seems like they came only for you''. Some time the elephants make visit in day light too. If they descend, the news will spread like wild fire and travelers from Munnar will rush in jeep to have a glimpse of them. More elephants would come down during the month of December, January and summer. When there is heavy rush in Sabarimala and when the temple opens, the elephants from that forest too would come here. There is festival season in the small temple near Anakkulam at that time. A festival of wild elephants including calves to grandma piggy elephants, without wearing a `nettipattom'. Anakkulam comprises of five or six small shops, small houses, a temple, church, grumandir and Eetta Cholayar river. The volley ball court of the place is situated near the `Ana Ori' (Elephant Pit) where elephants come for shower. When elephants descend, the player's stop playing and becomes spectators. We head towards the Anakkulam in the morning with an expectation of seeing elephants in day light. But we witnessed a different scene there. Some people were searching for something in the water. Later it was known that they were searching for an elephant tail hair with their legs. While playing in the water, hair would have fallen from the elephant's tail. Picking them, one can make a ring with it and get rid of fear. Or otherwise they can make money by selling it to other elephant tail hair lovers.

Hotels at IdukkiKerala Hailed as one of the inimitable protected areas in Western Ghats due to it's environmental, floral, geomorphologic and cultural significances, Idukki is a magnificent hill station for tourists. The place is where nature poured the mixture of all the spectacular colors of it's total beauty. This scenic land is beyond description with it's mountains carpeted with neelakurinji flowers, snow-clad blue hills, flowery valleys, grassland where elephants graze, serene lakes, rivers flowing down from the forests, green tea gardens, cardamom gardens, thick forests, ancient caves beyond history where ascetics lived, sandal gardens – all of these merging here. TOURIST INFORMATION OFFICES District Tourist Information Office, Department of Tourism, Thekkady junction, Kumily: 04869-222620 District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC), Civil Station, Painavu: 04862-232248 DTPC Information Centre, Old Munnar: 04865-231516 A landlocked district, Idukki is one of the most nature rich areas of Kerala. High ranges and wooded valleys are girded by three main rivers – Periyar, Thalayar and Thodupuzhayar – and their tributaries. The river Pamba has also its origin here. As a tourist destination, Idukki offers diverse attractions like Wild life sanctuary, Hill stations, Dams, Spice plantation tours, Mountain treks, Elephant rides etc. The Wildlife Sanctuary extends over the Thodupuzha and Udumbanchola taluks of Idukki district, spreading over 77 sq.km. and is about 450-748 m. above sea level. Idukki arch dam is the world's second and Asia's first arch dam, constructed across the Kuravan and Kurathi hills. 550 feet high and 650 feet wide. The dam lies close to the Cheruthoni barrage. To its west is the Kulamavu Dam. Idukki Wildlife Sanctuary is located close by. The best season to visit these spots is August to March. You can avail hotels or home stays at a cost varying from Rs. 300 to Rs. 17000 of which a list is given below. List of Hotels MUNNAR STD Code: 04865 T&U Leasure Hotel Rs. 300 : 10,000 Ph: 04865 : 233081, 233082 For Reservation: 9446553081 Govt. Guest House Rs. 1120/: Ph: 230385 For Booking: 0471 : 2327366 Windermere Resorts Rs. 6851 : 14250 Ph: 230512, 230978 For Booking: 0484 : 2425239 Tall Trees Resorts Rs. 5400/: : 16100 Ph: 230641, 230593 Tea Country Rs. 4000 : 7500 Ph: 230460, 230989, 230970 Igloo Nature Resort Rs. 3450 : 4600 Ph: 263207, 263029, 263048 Olive Brook Rs. 3000 : 3500 Ph:04865 : 230588 Winter Green Resorts Rs. 1500 Ph. 253915 Eastend Munnar Rs. 2750 : 3000 Ph: 230451 : 53, 230227 West Wood Rever Side Rs. 2300 : 3900 Ph: 230884 : 86 Garden Retreat Mermaid Rs. 1750 : 3500 Ph: 232320, 232322, 230852 Le Celestium Rs. 2050 : 3500 Ph. 231988, 230118 Issac's Residency Rs. 2750 : 3125 Ph: 230501, 230265 Hotel Hill View Rs. 1900 : 2700 Ph: 230576, 230882, 230241 Ela Eco Land Rs. 1750 : 2500 Ph: 04864 : 278322 High Range Club Rs. 1800 : 2900 Ph: 230253, 230724 Sun Mount View Resort Rs. 1250 : 1500 Ph: 263233, 263287 Royal Retreat Rs. 1600 : 5000 Ph: 230440, 231112 : 15 Munnar Inn Rs. 1500 : 1800 Ph: 04865 : 231735, 230736 Munnar Castle Rs. 1900 : 4400 Ph: 208809 Noorgiri Rs. 1500 Ph: 214099, 214374 Pooppada Resorts Rs. 1100 : 2500 Ph: 230223, 231781 : 83 Mount Shelt Rs. 1400 : 1700 Ph: 233055, 232034 SN Annexe Rs, 1600 : 2400 Ph: 232022 Munnar Tourist Home Rs, 900 : 2500 Ph: 230353, 230862, 231385 Elysium Gardens Rs. 1600 : 2600 Ph: 230510, 232620, 231348 SN Tourist Home Rs. 750 : 1250 Ph: 230212, 230312 Aida Tourist Home Rs. 600 : 1600 Ph.230542 Spring Dale Resorts Rs. 700 : 3000 Ph: 264268, 264388 Black Berry Hills Rs. 3500 : 5000 Ph: 232978, 232979, 232965 KUMILY STD Code: 04869 Michael's Inn Rs. 1500 : 2500 Ph: 222355, 223130 Hotel Kumily Gate Rs. 1380 : 2200 Ph: 222500, 222279 Hotel Sithara International Rs. 1350 : 3500 Ph: 222288, 223588 Mas Lake Queen Rs. 1100 : 3000 Ph: 222084, 222086, 222187 High Range Residency Rs. 800 : 1600 Ph: 223343, 223743 Revathy International Rs. 550 : 850 Ph: 222434, 222435, 222436 Mukkumckal Regent:Tower Rs. 500 : 1500 Ph: 222570, 222670 Thekkady Wild Corridor 3000 : 15000 Ph: 224414, 224415 Cardamom Country Rs. 7000 : 10500 Ph: 224501 : 03, 222807 Shalimar Spice Garden Rs. 6900 : 10500 Ph: 222132 Hotel Lake Queen Rs. 1200 : 2950 Ph: 222084 IDUKKY Hotel Stone Age Rs. 330 : 690 Ph: 04862 : 235477 THEKKADY STD Code: 04869 Periyar House (KTDC) Rs. 1850 : 2850 Ph: 222026 Aranya Nivas (KTDC) Rs. 4002 : 5162 Ph: 222023, 222282 Lake Palace (KTDC) Rs. 11417 : 17167 Ph: 222023 Jungle In Rs. 2000 Ph: 224571 Bamboo Grove Rs. 1500 per Cottage Ph: 224571 The Elephant Court Rs. 3000 :25000 Ph: 9895167199, 9895767199 Clb Mahindra Tusker Trails Rs. 4750 : 7500 Ph: 222273 Ranger Wood Nature Castle Rs. 1500 : 3500 Ph: 222004, 224004 Hotel TreeTop Rs. 3000 : 8000 Ph: 223287 Wildernest Rs. 2500 : 3150 Ph: 224030 Hotal Ambadi Rs. 1350 : 1900 Ph: 222193 Silver Crest Rs. 2000 : 4000 Ph: 222481 : 83, 223801 Medow View Inn Rs. 750 : 1500 Ph: 9447389736 PLANTATION STAYS Kannan Devan Hills Plantations Rs. 7000 Ph: 230561 DEVIKULAM STD Code: 04865 Las Palms Resort Rs. 2400 : 4000 Ph: 264218, 264259 Spring Dale Resort, Devikulam Rs. 700 : 3000 Ph: 264268 MARAYOOR STD Code: 04865 Chandana Resodency Rs. 400 : 5000 Ph: 252222, 252333 Marthoma Retreat Rs. 1500 : 2000 Ph: 232285 Marthoma Camp Centre Rs. 600 : 750 Ph: 230313 Hiltop Tourist Home Rs. 400 : 750 Ph: 230655, 9446137713 VANDANMEDU Carmeliya Heven, Vandanmedu Rs. 2300 : 6000 Ph: 04868 : 270252, 270272, 270268 KULAMAVU Greenberg Holiday Resorts Rs. 2750 : 4000 Ph: 04862 : 259984, 259985, 259954 KATTAPPANA Rdassery Resorts, Kattapana Rs. 800 : 1250 Ph: 04868: 272711, 272001, 272712 Mayapott Plantation, Kattapana Rs> 11250 Ph: 0484 : 233544, 9447130457 VAGAMON STD Code: 04869 Vagamon Hideout Rs. 7500 Ph: 216166, 944715600 Vagamon Heights Rs. 2000 : 3400 Ph: 248206, 9847197150 Indo:American International Gurukulam Rs. 1500 Ph: 04822 : 289255 Kurisumala Asram Guest House (Only for those who com for meditation) Rs. 50, Ph: 04822 : 289277 CHINNAKKANAL The Siena Village, Chinnakkanal, Munnar Rs. 3040 : 4500 Ph: 04868 : 249261 Chancellor Resort Rs. 1000 : 7000 Ph: 04868 : 249318, 249319, 249320 Strling Resort Rs. 3500 : 4000 Ph: 04868 : 249206 : 9, 249210 PEERMADE STD Code: 04869 Yatri Nivas (KTDC) Rs. 690 : 1500 Ph: 233250 Hotel Himarani Rs. 750 : 3000 Ph: 232211 KUTTIKKANAM STD Code: 04869 Misty Mountain Plantation Resort Rs. 800 : 4025 Ph: 232065, 233265 Thrissanku Heaven Rs. 2071 : 3335 Ph: 04869 : 232491, 232193, 232692 Orma House Rs. 2400 : 2500 Ph: 233543 Dreamland Hill Resorts Rs. 750 : 2500 Ph: 133220 PLANTATION STAYS Ashley Bungalow Rs. 4000 : 7000 Ph: 232282, 232082, ELAPPARA STD Code: 04869 Green Acre Backpackers Inn Rs. 1500 : 2000 Ph: 242229 Green Woods Rs. 4400 : 5000 Ph: 222752, 222753, 223907 Leela Pankaj Rs. 1100 Ph: 222392 THODUPUZHA STD Code: 04862 River Banks Rs. 2000 : 3000 Ph: 224942 The Mourya Monarch Rs. 385 : 1093 Ph: 222697 Siciliya Hotels Rs. 545 1350 Ph: 222117 HOME STAYS IN IDUKKI THEKKADI Wood Pecker Rs. 500 Ph: 04869 : 224481 Tranquil Rs. 1000 Ph: 9447612149 Quadiriya Palace Rs. 400 : 5000 Ph: 9447980789 Dream Land Rs. 950 Ph: 9446307771 Bless Dale Rs. 500 : 750 Ph: 04869 : 222553 Wild View Rs. 600 : 750 Ph: 9447827279 Oasis Rs. 850 Ph: 04869 : 223544 Mundax Homestay Retreat Rs. 3000 Ph: 9447550804 Chill Cast Cottage Rs. 900 Ph: 04869 : 222331 Kairali Palace Rs. 750 Ph: 04869 : 224604 Medow View inn Rs. 750 : 1500 Ph: 0447389736 Jungle Palace Rs. 800 Ph: 9447524102 Mickeys Cottage Rs. 850 Ph: 04869 : 223196 Green View Rs. 600 Ph:211015 Dream Land Rs. 915 Ph: 223598 SANTHANPARA Veterans Home Stay, Petotty P.O. Rs. 2500 Ph: 04868 : 202080 Kondattyputhanpurayil, Kullapparachal P.O., Poopara Rs. 500 : 1000 Ph: 9446414925, 04868 : 245967 ANAKKARA Green Heven Villa Rs. 2000 Ph: 04858 : 283113 Johny's Garden Rs. 1500 Ph: 9447877665 Dalliance Dale Rs. 2500 Ph: 04868 : 282208 VANDIPERIYAR Down Town Heritage Rs. 1000 0482 : 202306 VAGAMON Vanila Country Rs. 5000 Ph: 0482 : 2281225 Padmalayam Homestay Rs. 750 : 1000 Ph: 04869 : 248270, 04822 : 212870 CHELLARKOVIL Manayath House Rs. 2000 Ph: 04868 : 282579 Kocheri Plantation Plantation Rs. 4500 Ph: 04865 : 266166, 9447512135 Green Planet Rs. 4500 Ph: 04865 : 230753, 231555 Spice Valley Rs. 2500 Ph: 9447220635 Green Park Rs. 750 : 4500 Ph: 9447162788 Theresian Cottages Rs. 1000 Ph: 04865 : 230351 SB Cottage Rs. 750 Ph: 04865 : 230656 Misty Homes Rs. 4000 Ph: 04865 : 263223 Kurinji Cottage Rs. 800 : 10000 Ph: 04865 : 230844 Ambat Homestay Rs. 500 Ph: 04865 : 230360 Sreekrishna Homestay Rs. 1000 Ph: 04864 : 224817 Sisiram Homestay Rs. 1200 Ph: 04865 : 231908 Pavithram Homestay Rs. 1000 : 1800 Ph: 04865 : 264233 IV Cottage Rs. 1250 Ph: 9446984309 Aranyaka Rs. 3000 Ph: 04865 : 230533 John's Cottage Rs. 1600 Ph: 231823 Westend Cottage Rs. 400 Ph: 230954 Chellam Cottage Rs. 500 : 2000 Ph: 9447294106 Chummar Homestay Rs. 1500 : 2000 Ph: 230473, 9447398016 A One Cottage Rs. 1500 Ph: 230820 DNS Cottage Rs. 800 : 1000 Ph: 9447388911 Mishal Cottage Rs. 500 : 750 Ph: 232986 Greenpark Cottage Rs. 750 Ph: 9447163788 Aswin Ram Cottage Rs. 300 : 500 Ph: 9447523582 Ajith Nivas Rs. 1300 Ph: 9446223234, 230390, 230410 KUMILY Style Palace Rs. 500 Ph: 9388266437, 224437 Sahya Cottage Rs. 300 : 1000 Ph: 04869 : 222832 Amala Cottage Rs.250 : 450 Ph: 9447431793 Kailas Rs. 500 : 800 Ph:9446743965 Spice Villa Homestay Rs. 500 Ph: 04859 : 222820 Claus Garden Rs. 200 : 950 Ph: 04869 : 222320 Hassans Homestay Rs> 750 : 1500 Ph: 04869 : 222186 Banjo Castle Rs. 750 Ph: 222124, 222225 Chitrasala Rs. 1250 Ph: 211235, 9447615579 Oasis Rs. 1500 Ph: 9447907890, 04869 : 223544 El:paradiso Rs. 1440 Ph: 222350 Amla Cottage Rs. 400 Ph: 224249 Wild View Rs. 750 Ph; 223994 Sel's Homestay Rs. 2400 Ph: 223578 Gangotri Homestay Rs. 500 : 500 Ph: 222299 White House Rs. 300 : 1200 Ph: 222978 Summer Cottage Rs. 500 Ph: 223532 Blue Mangos Rs. 500 Ph: 224603 Chembakassery Rs. 1500 Ph: 321717 ROSSAPOOKANDAM Mountain View Rs. 500 Ph: 04869 : 223362 Jungle Paradise Rs. 250 : 400 Ph: 04859 : 323740, 9447611846 THODUPUZHA Loveshore Rs. 2500 Ph: 04862 : 257499, 9446377499 Tabernacle Rs. 4500 Ph: 9447222883 Royal Treat Farm & Homestay Rs. 3000 : 5000 Ph: 04862 : 262366 POOPARA Peek Gardens Rs. 6500 : 8500 Ph: 9447775450 ADIMALI Silver Shadow Rs. 1250 Ph:9447823192 PALLIVASAL Spice Garden Homestay Rs. 1200 Ph: 9447163696 DEVIKULAM Misty Buds Rs.1200 Ph: 9447825746, 04865 : 264287 Tristar Homestay Rs. 3000 Ph: 9447459320 ANACHAL The British Country Rs. 1760 Ph: 9847044688 White Peach Rs. 600 Ph: 08465 : 253056 SANTHANPARA Veteran's Homestay Rs. 2500 Ph: 04968 : 202080 KALLAR Pulikkal Villa Rs. 750 Ph: 04864278418 CHIRTHIRAPURAM The Shade Rs. 1000 Ph: 9447825984 KARADIPARA Rose Gardens Rs. 2500 Ph: 04864 : 278243 ADIMALI Pottamparambil House Rs. 730 Ph: 944823792, 999566771, 04864 : 223863 Tariff and phone numbers may change. Check the details prior to travel.