Southwestern India People & Culture

Cochin is the gateway to modern Kerala (India) and the hub of economic activity in the state of Kerala which is one of the unique and interesting places in the world The Malabar coast, long renowned in the ancient in the ancient world for its spices and the link to the far east as far as China had many ancient ports, not all of which have been identified to date. However, Kochi was not one of them. Presence of sand bars which obstructed ship movement and made it unsafe precluded its development as a major port for most of history. The most important port along the Malabar coast was Muziris, present day Kodungallur situated aprox 80 km north of Cochin. A major flood in the 13th century silted Muziris and opened the port of Cochin heralding its new era. At the time of the epic voyage of Vasco de Gama, the prime focus of international trade was Kozhikode, but a dsipute with the Zamorin, the ruler of Kozhikode forced Gama to look elsewhere (Cochin) for trade links. It helped that the Kings of the principality of Cochin (Perumbadappu swaroopam) welcomed the Portuguese literally putting Cochin on the world trade map. It has not looked back since. Kochi, as Cochin is known today, changed hands several times; Portuguese, then Dutch and finally British all leaving their marks on the life and culture of the place. Cochin soon attracted traders from around the world trading communities settled elsewhere in Kerala soon shifted base here. Most of the surface area of the region around Cochin is filled with waterways and backwaters. Tourist attractions Backwater cruises in "kettuvalloms" - house boats Food: a unique blend of old European (prior to the evolution of continental cuisine) and local tastes is unrivalled in taste. Dozens of varieties of fish preparations, appam (a frilly pancake made from fermented rice and coconut milk) being the best example. Culture: Kerala has the greatest concentration of classical arts in whole of Indian subcontinent namely, Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, Koodiyattam. Music: While Kerala has made itls own contribution to Carnatic Music (the south Indian classical music), the real unique aspect of Kerala music is the variety and depth of percussion instruments and rhythms. Afficiandos of percussion music must not miss the percussion orchestras at "Pooram"s which are huge temple festivals. These can also be the opportunity to glimpse the Keral elephants. Elephants: Elephants are revered by the people of Kerala and form essential elements in cultural life and are integral to temple festivities. Ayurveda: Kerala is famous for its exponents of traditional healing system known as ayurveda. While it is excellent for rejuvenating the tired mind and body, travellers will be ill advised if they attempt to cure major illnesses (better take modern medical help) For the traveller who wants to venture off the beaten track, it offers a unique experience which cannot be described. Flip side: Kerala is expensive. Hotel rooms are always full in season due to heavy demand and small supply. Book your flights and hotel rooms at least a year in advance if you dont want to regret! Part of the reason for high prices is a deliberate attempt to discourage the non serious traveller and the back packer. However, a back packer who is willing to do some research and improvise (like the local Indian) can have a lot of value for money Places to visit Fort Cochin and Mattachery [ Jewish synagogue, St Francis church- the first European church in Asia, Dutch palace, Bishop's house - it houses a unique maritime musueum of the Portuguese period, the building itself was built by the Dutch] Best wishes

worth to stay couple of days. beautifull city.. not meny tourists - everyone runs to the beach insted of seeing what the capital of goa has to offer. cheep guest houses, good southern-indian food, warm people. what can u ask more?

This is a place where the means o transport to a school, to a market, to the church is all through the medium water. Amazing backwaters. Lovely people. Do not miss the sheer joy of travelling along the coastline in your sel- chauffered boat. Hire a boat for a day, very cheap. Amazing home-made fish curries along the way. Toddy is something you wouldn't want to miss. they say avoid Allepey when it rains, but its an experience of its own kind......Its a heaven of sorts for photographers

Agree with all the people that its a traditional city. But...yes but...the drags happen there, the best motorbike mechnics are available here....some of the amazing raves happen here...but access to these is dificult unless you know the right people. Its a good transit point with Ooty / Coorg/ Bandipur all lying around it

to travel cheaply, avoid the expensive taxis and rickshaws and take the bus. They arn't as crowded or chaotic as other buses in india, they will pick you up from anywhere as long as you flag them down, and you can generally find some nice people willing to help you figure out the route system.

Palolem (yes correct spelling)! used to be an idyllic, deserted place. Now days though, even though still beautiful, tourism has ruined it somewhat. The beach is alot busier, and girls have ignored culture and have taken to sunbathing topless-this is frowned upon by locals. My advise would be to keep your top on, to gain respect. Also do NOT wander around in bikini's along the street, it not only looks ridiculous but its lack of respect for yourself and for the locals. Palolem is a place i have still gone back to time and again even with its tourism and ignorant package tourists. It draws you in somehow, especially with its relaxed lifestyle. Also without the wonderful dogs, it wouldnt be the same. Most dogs have had their injections and rabies in Goa is not usual. Dogs do appreciate some food and water (seek out the skinny ones). Keep your left overs from your meals.

Cochin is the gateway to modern Kerala (India) and the hub of economic activity in the state of Kerala which is one of the unique and interesting places in the world The Malabar coast, long renowned in the ancient in the ancient world for its spices and the link to the far east as far as China had many ancient ports, not all of which have been identified to date. However, Kochi was not one of them. Presence of sand bars which obstructed ship movement and made it unsafe precluded its development as a major port for most of history. The most important port along the Malabar coast was Muziris, present day Kodungallur situated aprox 80 km north of Cochin. A major flood in the 13th century silted Muziris and opened the port of Cochin heralding its new era. At the time of the epic voyage of Vasco de Gama, the prime focus of international trade was Kozhikode, but a dsipute with the Zamorin, the ruler of Kozhikode forced Gama to look elsewhere (Cochin) for trade links. It helped that the Kings of the principality of Cochin (Perumbadappu swaroopam) welcomed the Portuguese literally putting Cochin on the world trade map. It has not looked back since. Kochi, as Cochin is known today, changed hands several times; Portuguese, then Dutch and finally British all leaving their marks on the life and culture of the place. Cochin soon attracted traders from around the world trading communities settled elsewhere in Kerala soon shifted base here. Most of the surface area of the region around Cochin is filled with waterways and backwaters. Tourist attractions Backwater cruises in "kettuvalloms" - house boats Food: a unique blend of old European (prior to the evolution of continental cuisine) and local tastes is unrivalled in taste. Dozens of varieties of fish preparations, appam (a frilly pancake made from fermented rice and coconut milk) being the best example. Culture: Kerala has the greatest concentration of classical arts in whole of Indian subcontinent namely, Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, Koodiyattam. Music: While Kerala has made itls own contribution to Carnatic Music (the south Indian classical music), the real unique aspect of Kerala music is the variety and depth of percussion instruments and rhythms. Afficiandos of percussion music must not miss the percussion orchestras at "Pooram"s which are huge temple festivals. These can also be the opportunity to glimpse the Keral elephants. Elephants: Elephants are revered by the people of Kerala and form essential elements in cultural life and are integral to temple festivities. Ayurveda: Kerala is famous for its exponents of traditional healing system known as ayurveda. While it is excellent for rejuvenating the tired mind and body, travellers will be ill advised if they attempt to cure major illnesses (better take modern medical help) For the traveller who wants to venture off the beaten track, it offers a unique experience which cannot be described. Flip side: Kerala is expensive. Hotel rooms are always full in season due to heavy demand and small supply. Book your flights and hotel rooms at least a year in advance if you dont want to regret! Part of the reason for high prices is a deliberate attempt to discourage the non serious traveller and the back packer. However, a back packer who is willing to do some research and improvise (like the local Indian) can have a lot of value for money Places to visit Fort Cochin and Mattachery [ Jewish synagogue, St Francis church- the first European church in Asia, Dutch palace, Bishop's house - it houses a unique maritime musueum of the Portuguese period, the building itself was built by the Dutch] Best wishes

I spent 2 weeks here for work and overall it's pretty Westernized. Still an amazing culture, but not a lot of time to really check out the sites. Botanical gardens aren't really what you'd expect, but good for a nice break from the office. Lots of shops selling scarfs and such for the ladies - be sure to let them do their whole pitch before buying or leaving, they appear to work hard at their selling tactics and be sure to haggle, you can always get a bargain. Don't forget you can't drink the water if you're coming from the US - even on your toothbrush!

The cultural city of Kerala, a state know in India as Gods Own Country. A wonderful green streak of land with Coconut trees and long beaches. Travel time would be better during middle of January and till end of May. In May the 1st weekend is very famous Trichur Puram, a festival with 51 elephants all decorated with Jewels and umbrellas.

Mysore, traditional city with historic significance. It is a place of beautiful gardens and palaces.Beautiful brindavan gardens and famous mysore palace are the must see places. Vibrant culture of the south and delicious cuisines are the bonuses. Despite its tag of old city it has now got a modern look to itself thanks to various IT parks which have cropped up recently. Well connected my rail and bus. Airport is coming up but nearest air terminal is Bangalore. It opens itself into the Nilgiris in the south side and is strikingly close to the tourist haven OOTY.

Cochin is the gateway to modern Kerala (India) and the hub of economic activity in the state of Kerala which is one of the unique and interesting places in the world The Malabar coast, long renowned in the ancient in the ancient world for its spices and the link to the far east as far as China had many ancient ports, not all of which have been identified to date. However, Kochi was not one of them. Presence of sand bars which obstructed ship movement and made it unsafe precluded its development as a major port for most of history. The most important port along the Malabar coast was Muziris, present day Kodungallur situated aprox 80 km north of Cochin. A major flood in the 13th century silted Muziris and opened the port of Cochin heralding its new era. At the time of the epic voyage of Vasco de Gama, the prime focus of international trade was Kozhikode, but a dsipute with the Zamorin, the ruler of Kozhikode forced Gama to look elsewhere (Cochin) for trade links. It helped that the Kings of the principality of Cochin (Perumbadappu swaroopam) welcomed the Portuguese literally putting Cochin on the world trade map. It has not looked back since. Kochi, as Cochin is known today, changed hands several times; Portuguese, then Dutch and finally British all leaving their marks on the life and culture of the place. Cochin soon attracted traders from around the world trading communities settled elsewhere in Kerala soon shifted base here. Most of the surface area of the region around Cochin is filled with waterways and backwaters. Tourist attractions Backwater cruises in "kettuvalloms" - house boats Food: a unique blend of old European (prior to the evolution of continental cuisine) and local tastes is unrivalled in taste. Dozens of varieties of fish preparations, appam (a frilly pancake made from fermented rice and coconut milk) being the best example. Culture: Kerala has the greatest concentration of classical arts in whole of Indian subcontinent namely, Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, Koodiyattam. Music: While Kerala has made itls own contribution to Carnatic Music (the south Indian classical music), the real unique aspect of Kerala music is the variety and depth of percussion instruments and rhythms. Afficiandos of percussion music must not miss the percussion orchestras at "Pooram"s which are huge temple festivals. These can also be the opportunity to glimpse the Keral elephants. Elephants: Elephants are revered by the people of Kerala and form essential elements in cultural life and are integral to temple festivities. Ayurveda: Kerala is famous for its exponents of traditional healing system known as ayurveda. While it is excellent for rejuvenating the tired mind and body, travellers will be ill advised if they attempt to cure major illnesses (better take modern medical help) For the traveller who wants to venture off the beaten track, it offers a unique experience which cannot be described. Flip side: Kerala is expensive. Hotel rooms are always full in season due to heavy demand and small supply. Book your flights and hotel rooms at least a year in advance if you dont want to regret! Part of the reason for high prices is a deliberate attempt to discourage the non serious traveller and the back packer. However, a back packer who is willing to do some research and improvise (like the local Indian) can have a lot of value for money Places to visit Fort Cochin and Mattachery [ Jewish synagogue, St Francis church- the first European church in Asia, Dutch palace, Bishop's house - it houses a unique maritime musueum of the Portuguese period, the building itself was built by the Dutch] Best wishes

Don't go for New Years.. don't go there period unless you want to be surrounded by 2,000 people (mostly men and naked Europeans) dancing to electronic and house music in an open field. Plus, there are many hungry children running around begging for food, along with stray dogs and fecal matter that floats by you in the water if you go in (thats not sanitary) Many of the beach "bars" are situated next to small villages that literally use the ocean as a toilet. I don't mean to sound bourgeois but I admit I have my tendancies and in this case they all came out. I did not appreciate being chased by a pack of stray, malnourished dogs in the middle of the night and having to camp out in an internet cafe, thank you very much!

~carry a music player... sit by the riverside and listen... its a great place to be retrospective ~carry sun tan, or some sun protection... u'll seriously need it ~hiring a bicycle is a good idea, but u can only cover half of hampi that way... the other half has to be done on foot ~sunset from the riverside is a must ~lot of walking involved, so beware of foot odour...  ~try going a bit hippie with the clothes u can buy in the market... itll be fun, and u wont be embarrased

Goa is a great place for holidays, but it can get a bit noisy and crowded. If you're not the thrill seeking kind and would rather have a quiet spot for your base I recommend Mandrem beach. I found it a brilliant place to relax and unwind on the beach. It has some good cafes and restaurants, which very often we had mostly to ourselves. Among my favourite spots are: The Avalon Inn - excellent accommodation, good value for money - we felt really looked after. Riverside cafe - for great food at any time of day. Also excellent value for money. I definitely ate more than I normally do, the food was so good The Well Garden - has a great vibe, good music and the pizza (and coffee) tastes just as if you were in the best pizzeria in Italy.

XL hotel is a very nice place to stay in Cochin - clean and comfortable, although you can find a cheaper accomodation, e.g. in a serviced appartment. XL hostess Judi is very welcoming and ready to give advice on interesting places and activities in Cochi. The Kathakali center (close to Santa Cruz Bazilica) is worth visiting. You can see kathakali, classical dance, music concerts as well as martial arts. Highly recommended!

Cochin is the gateway to modern Kerala (India) and the hub of economic activity in the state of Kerala which is one of the unique and interesting places in the world The Malabar coast, long renowned in the ancient in the ancient world for its spices and the link to the far east as far as China had many ancient ports, not all of which have been identified to date. However, Kochi was not one of them. Presence of sand bars which obstructed ship movement and made it unsafe precluded its development as a major port for most of history. The most important port along the Malabar coast was Muziris, present day Kodungallur situated aprox 80 km north of Cochin. A major flood in the 13th century silted Muziris and opened the port of Cochin heralding its new era. At the time of the epic voyage of Vasco de Gama, the prime focus of international trade was Kozhikode, but a dsipute with the Zamorin, the ruler of Kozhikode forced Gama to look elsewhere (Cochin) for trade links. It helped that the Kings of the principality of Cochin (Perumbadappu swaroopam) welcomed the Portuguese literally putting Cochin on the world trade map. It has not looked back since. Kochi, as Cochin is known today, changed hands several times; Portuguese, then Dutch and finally British all leaving their marks on the life and culture of the place. Cochin soon attracted traders from around the world trading communities settled elsewhere in Kerala soon shifted base here. Most of the surface area of the region around Cochin is filled with waterways and backwaters. Tourist attractions Backwater cruises in "kettuvalloms" - house boats Food: a unique blend of old European (prior to the evolution of continental cuisine) and local tastes is unrivalled in taste. Dozens of varieties of fish preparations, appam (a frilly pancake made from fermented rice and coconut milk) being the best example. Culture: Kerala has the greatest concentration of classical arts in whole of Indian subcontinent namely, Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, Koodiyattam. Music: While Kerala has made itls own contribution to Carnatic Music (the south Indian classical music), the real unique aspect of Kerala music is the variety and depth of percussion instruments and rhythms. Afficiandos of percussion music must not miss the percussion orchestras at "Pooram"s which are huge temple festivals. These can also be the opportunity to glimpse the Keral elephants. Elephants: Elephants are revered by the people of Kerala and form essential elements in cultural life and are integral to temple festivities. Ayurveda: Kerala is famous for its exponents of traditional healing system known as ayurveda. While it is excellent for rejuvenating the tired mind and body, travellers will be ill advised if they attempt to cure major illnesses (better take modern medical help) For the traveller who wants to venture off the beaten track, it offers a unique experience which cannot be described. Flip side: Kerala is expensive. Hotel rooms are always full in season due to heavy demand and small supply. Book your flights and hotel rooms at least a year in advance if you dont want to regret! Part of the reason for high prices is a deliberate attempt to discourage the non serious traveller and the back packer. However, a back packer who is willing to do some research and improvise (like the local Indian) can have a lot of value for money Places to visit Fort Cochin and Mattachery [ Jewish synagogue, St Francis church- the first European church in Asia, Dutch palace, Bishop's house - it houses a unique maritime musueum of the Portuguese period, the building itself was built by the Dutch] Best wishes

A great little village to hang out for a few days in Goa, away from the trippy-hippy clowns of the northern beaches and the package holiday type apartments just up the road in Colva.
Colva beach is really, really long - a good ride on a bicycle to the end and back - and really beautiful. If you really feel adventurous, buy the guys on one of the fishing boats a cheap bottle of spirits and they'll take you out fishing for the day (or night depending on the tide). A truly awesome experience to see how the locals make a living on the ocean.

This is a place where the means o transport to a school, to a market, to the church is all through the medium water. Amazing backwaters. Lovely people. Do not miss the sheer joy of travelling along the coastline in your sel- chauffered boat. Hire a boat for a day, very cheap. Amazing home-made fish curries along the way. Toddy is something you wouldn't want to miss. they say avoid Allepey when it rains, but its an experience of its own kind......Its a heaven of sorts for photographers

Fabulous food... fresh fish at the chinese nets...

Kolar or Kolar Gold Fields is a small town - with lots of 'English' connections. Great little place, full of Tamil speaking people in the Karnataka town, not a surprise that anyway. It is abbreviated as KGF. easily accessible from Bangalore

Cochin is Kerala's main tourist destination. Check out the exotic spice markets, churches and dutch homes, before you take the backwater trip.

Ernakulam is a city which is not too daunting. usually stopping here before the backwater tours.

A fun and trendy place to be. Join in the fun with the locls at one of the many bars.

Kerala's capital, most tourists justpass through here to get to the palm-fringed beaches

Palolem (yes correct spelling)! used to be an idyllic, deserted place. Now days though, even though still beautiful, tourism has ruined it somewhat. The beach is alot busier, and girls have ignored culture and have taken to sunbathing topless-this is frowned upon by locals. My advise would be to keep your top on, to gain respect. Also do NOT wander around in bikini's along the street, it not only looks ridiculous but its lack of respect for yourself and for the locals. Palolem is a place i have still gone back to time and again even with its tourism and ignorant package tourists. It draws you in somehow, especially with its relaxed lifestyle. Also without the wonderful dogs, it wouldnt be the same. Most dogs have had their injections and rabies in Goa is not usual. Dogs do appreciate some food and water (seek out the skinny ones). Keep your left overs from your meals.

Kerala Government Download Forms Districts of India Kerala Tourism RR Online Bordered by the lofty and mighty Western Ghats on the east and the Vembanad Lake and paddy fields of Kuttanad on the west, Kottayam is a land of unique characteristics.
Panoramic backwater stretches, lush paddy fields, highlands, hills and hillocks, extensive rubber plantations, places associated with many legends and a totally literate people have given Kottayam District the enviable title: The land of letters, legends, latex and lakes . Kottayam Town is the first town in India to have achieved 100% literacy ( a remarkable feat achieved as early as in 1989 ).
English education in South India did actually start at the Old Seminary here at Kottayam in 1813. The first printing press in Kerala was established (CMS Press) here in 1821 by Rev.Benjamin Baily. The first college in the State (CMS College) was also started here at Kottayam in 1840. Maiden printed Malayalam-English and English-Malayalam Dictionaries were published from Kottayam in 1846 and 1847 respectively. The first and only Cooperative Society of writers, authors and publishers (SPCS), for publishing books and periodicals was set up here in 1945. Kottayam is the hometown of a vast number of books and periodicals and is the center of publishing business in the State. Kottayam is the first town in India selected by the Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India to be transformed as an Eco City.
The Sri K R Narayanan, the former President of India hails from Kottayam District.
Kottayam is the ideal take off point for visits to Peermade, Munnar, Thekkady, Ernakulam and the temple city, Madurai. It is also a gateway to the pilgrim centers of Sabarimala, Mannanam, Vaikom, Ettumanoor, Bharananganam, Erumeli, Manarcaud, and so on.