INDIAN
TRAVEL GUIDE
South
India Travel Guide
ALLEPPEY
The town was founded by Raja Keshawadasan, Divan of Travanacore in 1762. With
the arabian sea on the west and a vast network of lakes, lagoons and fresh water
rivers crisscrossing it, alappuzha is a district of immense natural beauty.
Referred to as the venice of the east by travellers from across the world, this
backwater country is also home to diverse animal and bird life.
COCHIN
A leisurely walk through the city is the best way to discover historic Fort
Kochi. An obscure fishing village that became the first European township in
India, Kochi has an eventful and colourful history. Its reputation as a seafaring
commercial town was such that Nicolas Conti, an Italian traveller of the Middle
Ages remarked: If China is where you make your money, then Kochi surely is the
place to spend it.
CALICUT
Once the capital of the powerful Zamorins and a prominent trade and commerce
centre, Kozhikode was the most important region of Malabar in the days gone
by. Today, lush green country sides, serene beaches, historic sites, wildlife
sanctuaries, rivers, hills, a unique culture and a warm, friendly ambience make
Kozhikode a popular destination.
KUNNAR
With the Lakshadweep sea in the west, the Western Ghats in the east, and the
Kozhikode and Wayanad districts in the south, Kannur is bounded by a wealth
of natural beauty. The district itself, which shares much of this natural splendour,
has been a key contributor to the cultural, religious, political and industrial
heritage of the state.
KOLLAM
This seaside village of historic importance has the ruins of an old Portuguese
fort and churches built in the 18th century. The Thangasseri Lighthouse is open
to visitors from 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm. There are buses at 15 minute intervals
from Kollam town.
MUNNAR
Munnar is situated at the confluence of three mountain streams - Mudrapuzha,
Nallathanni and Kundala. 1600 m above sea level, this hill station was once
the summer resort of the erstwhile British Government in South India. Sprawling
tea plantations, picture-book towns, winding lanes and holiday facilities make
this a popular resort town.
TRIVANDRUM
Thiruvananthapuram is, decidedly, one of the cleaner and well-planned cities
of the country. The city's scenic appeal, its enchanting beaches, and overwhelming
greenery only add to its uniqueness. It embodies the magical feel of Kerala,
as a whole, and lends terrific insight into the culture of the state. The red-tiled
roofs, the never-ending stretches of palm trees, the maze of narrow, winding
streets and above all, the sea, make for a fascinating mixture. There is an
element of understated and effortless elegance about the city, which leaves
a lasting impression on the visitor.