East Godavari

Kotilingalarevu This is the ferry point at “Rajahmundry” to cross the Godavari, with beautifully built steps and bathing ghats all along the river bank. The Kotilingeshwara temple built in the 10th-11th century is yet another attraction here. There's ample choice of accommodation, restaurants, and transport. Kadiyapulanka Located at 8 km from Rajahmundry, it is a small, picturesque village. The centre of flourishing floriculture and horticulture trade, its dazzling, colourful gardens of Jasmine, Roses and others are a feast for the eyes. An annual flower show is held here in the month of January. Antervedi Antervedi is located 20 km from Razole, 10 km from Narsapur at the confluence of the Bay of Bengal and River Vasistha. Legend has it that this is where “Maharshi Vasistha” brought the river Godavari. It is famous for the temple of “Sri Laxmi Narasimha Swamy”, built during the 15th-16th century AD. APTDC accommodation and multi cuisine restaurants are available at Dindi, coconut groves 20 km away. It's called “Haritha Coconut Country Resort”. Samarlakota Located at a distance of 15 km from Kakinada, Samarlakota is famous for a Shiva temple, considered to be one of the Pancharamams in the state. This Bhimesvara Swamy temple built during the 11th century, reflects the Chola-Chalukya style of architecture. Draksharamam t is located at about 40 km from Rajahmundry and is considered to be a sacred pilgrimage destination in Andhra. Also known as Dakshina Kasi, the Bhimeswara Swamy temple here is thronged by devotees regularly. The architecture of the temple is splendid and is a perfect blend of both the Chalukya and Chola style. There are inscriptions dating from 1080 AD to 1434 AD, which are a pure delight for historians. In this temple, the Linga is 2.6 meters high is said to be made of one large crystal. Annavaram Situated at 72 km from Rajahmundry and 51 km from Kakinada, it is famous for Lord Veera Venkata Satyanarayana Swamy temple at the top of Ratnagiri hills, on the banks of river Pamba. The shrine is a two-storied structure, the lower one containing the Yantra and upper one housing the vigrahas (idols) of the Lord. Accommodation and transport is easily available. Also available are private restaurants. Uppada A beach town located 20 km from Kakinada. It is also famous for its beautifully designed cotton sarees. Accommodation and restaurants are available at Kakinada. Rampachodavaram (Eco-Tourism) One can drive down to Marademalli, which is just 20 km away, it's a little known hill station. The drive through the dense jungle is quite enjoyable and one can expect to encounter wildlife. At Maredumilli, coffee, pepper and rubber are cultivated by the tribals. Forest Department accommodation is available at Maredumilli. Or one can also stay at Rampachodavaram in the APTDC guest house. Fazalabad Sri Valli Devasena Subramanyeswara Swamy temple was constructed by Sri Fazarlabad, 150 years ago. Devotees believe that if blind people worship the God here, he/she will definitely be able to see again. Also, those who are unmarried will get married if they perform special pujas like “Kuja Dosham” and “Rahu Dosham”. This temple is situated at a distance of 35 km from Rajahmundry. Kotipalli The Someswara Swamy temple here was built in 13th century. It is situated 39 km from Kakinada. Legend has it that if you take holy dip in Gowthami river, flowing in this region, all your sins will be washed off and you will once again be a pure human. Pitapuram Kukunteswara Swamy is the most famous feature here. As per legend Vyasamaharshi with his disciples worship Kukkuteswara Swamy. The Swamy is shaped like a Kukkutam (cock) with wings on either side of the Lingam. Pyaina Raju Palem Sri Suryanarayana swamy temple is situated here. It's believed that if childless couples worship the God here they will be blessed with children. Coringa Forest and Hope Island Situated 20 km from Kakinada and 70 km from Rajahmundry, this sanctuary is a part of river Godavari and has a rich growth of Mangrove plantation. A unique feature of this sanctuary is that it's located on the back waters of the sea. Otter, a protected species is found here among other animals which include Fishing Cat, Jackal, Sea Turtle and Estuarine Crocodile. The common birds found are Snipes, Ducks, Sea Gulls and Flamingos. Accommodation is available at the forest rest house, at Coringa and Rajahmundry. Best season to visit is between October and May. Sringara Vallabha Swamy temple (Tirupati) Peddapuram Mandal The temple is nearly 12 km away from Samarlakota. On the way to Kirlampudi route, As per the inscriptions, the temple was built a thousand years ago. Dhawaleswaram Sir Arthur Cotton Museum was started here in 1998. The Museum narrates the construction of present Sir Arthur Cotton Barrage constructed with the advance engineering skill. It is the only civil engineering museum in the state. DindiThis village in Malkipuram mandal is on the banks of river Godavari. Houseboats in these banks offer special services to tourists. These have been introduced by AP Tourism Development Corporation. APTDC has also started Haritha Coconut Country Resort, which has accommodation, restaurant and a swimming pool. Ryalli Jaganmohini Kesava Swamy temple is in this village was constructed way back in the 11th century. The architecture of the temple is very famous. MaredumilliJungle Star Nature Camp is a nature lover's paradise. The camp provides an excellent opportunity to explore the eastern ghats. Located adjacent to the river Valamuru, the camp has a stream flowing on 3 sides overlooking the Vali-Sugriva of the Ramayana era. The remarkable variation of the battle ground with the presence of grass lands, encircled by forests on the other hillocks draws the attention of visitors to this epic story. GollalamamidadaLocated at a distance of 25 km from Rajahmundry, this small village is famous for the Sri Kodanda Rama temple. The Gopuram of this temple towers over 160 metres and the beautiful idols of Sri Rama, Sri Sita Mahalakshmi and Sri Lakshmana, are fascinating. Other interests Kakinada is famous for Kakinada Khaza & Madata Khaza (Sweets), do not forget to sample these delicacies before you leave the place. Tapeswaram is a famous for Khaza, Just 50 km from Rajahmundry. Another specialty of the region is Putarekulu, a thin sugar coated sweet famous at Atreyapuram.

Idukki

Idukki

Thekkady - 114 kms off Kottayam and 65 km from Idukki

One of the best wildlife sanctuaries of the nation, Thekkady is complete with exotic flora, fauna, and evergreen forest. The vast area of 777 sq kms of forest has an exquisite sanctuary in it, and is the largest in India . It has earned a special place as one of the hotspots on any tourists agenda.

The 360sq kms of dense forest in the The Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary provides home to a wide variety of remarkable birds like Malabar Grey Hornbill, Grey Jungle Fowl, Heron, Egret, Jungle Myna, Wood Pecker, Rose Winged and Blue Winged Parakeet, Ceylon Frog-Mouth and Rose Billed Roller. This fascinating spot where visitors can often spot many kinds of wild animals is also a noted Tiger reserve. The guided tours arranged by the sanctuary provide opportunities to watch these animals at close quarters. Walks through the acres of plantations and up the mountainous area provide excellent trekking opportunities. A large portion of the sanctuary is surrounded by the Periyar River . Apart from the many varieties of fish here, the river is also noted for the long lovely boat rides that are arranged by the sanctuary. These rides are another excellent way to discover the myriad wildlife that thrives in and around the water. Rowing along the splendidly constructed Mullaperiyar dam, one can always manage to spot herds of wild elephants frolicking in the river water.

Kumily- Located 4 kms from Thekkady

This is a noted town, close to the Periyar sanctuary. Acres of lush plantations constitute most of the town. Plantation town is situated on the outskirts of the Periyar sanctuary. Kumily is also one of the best places to shop for spices.

Murikkady- 5 km from Thekkady

Murikkady is a beautiful location that is known for its well looked after coffee plantations. Cardamom and pepper are also extensively grown here. The place is a significant supplier to the many spice shops at Kumily.

Pandikuzhi- 5 kms from Kumily

The beautiful location of Pandikuzhi is situated at the outskirts of the state. It is now growing to be a popular tourist destination and an enchanting picnic spot. Pandikuzhi is noted for the many species of bird and animal life and rare plants and herbs that thrive there. The landscape of the place makes it an appealing holiday venue for trekkers and adventure travelers as well.

Mangala Devi Temple- 15 kms from Thekkady

This is a famous temple in Idukki. The temple is a classic example of temple architecture of ancient Kerala. The well preserved relics of this ancient Devi temple is situated upon a hillock that stands about 1337 m above sea level. The long way through the dense forest and up the dilapidated steps leading to the temple makes the trip a lovely trek.

Chellarkovil- 15 kms from Kumily

This is a beautiful village that shares its borders with Tamil Nadu. The place presents visitors with a fantastic opportunity to observe the typical life of simple people settled in the villages at high ranges. The scenic extravaganza including acres of luxuriant fields, plains and gurgling waterfalls make it a much sought out tourist destination.

Vandiperiyar- 18 kms from Thekkady

With many tea processing sites and factories, Vandiperiyar stands out as a major trade and commercial center of the district and the state. There are many beautiful nurseries here. It is also the chosen location for the operations and research by the Government Agriculture Farm and Flower Garden.

Munnar - 70 kms from Idukki

Munnar, was the most popular summer resorts during the British reign and is still a very well known hill station. Located at an altitude of 1800m above sea level, this 'Kashmir of the East' is the first hill resort in the State.

The chilly climate here is ideal for cultivating tea. It is home to one of the biggest tea plantations in the world- the Kannan Devan Tea Plantations. The sight of mist topped tea plantations spread across acres of Munnar, is indeed soothing to the eye.

The most splendid sight would definitely be that of thousands of the exotic blue flower- Neelakurinji, that inundate the hills every 12 years (the next bloom will be in the year 2006). There are many lovely spots that are ideal for rock climbing and trekking as well. The noisy waterfalls, gurgling streams and rows of tiny cottages add more life and colour to the vivid picturesque location that Munnar already is.

Pothamedu - 6 kms from Munnar

This is a popular location with trekkers and adventure tourists. The magnificently beautiful mountainous place has many hills making it a perfect spot to set out on challenging treks and mountain walks. Pothamedu is also known for the beautiful tea and coffee plantations and also the lush cardamom plantations.

Devikulam - 7 kms from Munnar

The chill climate, fresh air exclusive to high ranges, acres of green lawns, exotic wildlife, and the marvelous Sita Devi Lake, all attract tourists from all over the globe. Sita Devi Lake that is known for its mineral water also provides boating and fishing facilities.

Chithirapuram - 10 kms from Munnar

Picturesque Chithirapuram is the site for the Pallyvasal Hydel Power Project. Long arrays of beautiful cottages, bungalows, shopping areas, playgrounds and courts, all designed in an old town's style, gives one the feeling of being part of an exquisite painting. Many lovely tea plantations make the place even more exotic.

Mattupetty - 13 kms from Munnar

Mattupetty, situated at a height of 1700 m, is specially known for its highly specialised dairy farm - the Indo Swiss Livestock Project. Over a 100 varieties of high yielding cattle are reared here.

The Mattupetty also has a lake and dam, just a short distance from the farm. These are beautiful picnic spots and the boat cruises (Speed launch, slow speedboat and motorboats) along the dam are quite popular. The sprawling Kundala tea plantations and the Kundala Lake are other attractions in the vicinity.

Lock Heart Gap

This is a location in Mattupetty. The place is ideal for adventure tourism and trekking. The fresh mountain air, the mist-clad hills and panoramic view make it worthy of a visit.

Echo Point - 15 kms from Munnar

This is a very scenic place and it gets its name from the natural echo phenomenon here. Echo Point is on the way to Top Station from Munnar

Iravikkulam National Park

The 97sq kms area of Iravikkulam National Park embraces an exotic landscape complete with green meadows, dense forests, tall rock and mountains. The myriad species of animals and birds here include many rare ones as well. Many unusual plants can also be found in the park.

Anamudy

This is the highest mountain peak in the state. The colossal mountain that stands as tall as 2694metres is situated on the southern boarder of the Iravikulam national park. It provides excellent opportunities for trekking.

Other Attractions

The Hydro Electric Project at Pallivasal (8 km from Munnar) and breathtaking waterfalls at Attukal (9 km from Munnar) and Nyayamakad (10 km from Munnar) are other attractions.

The lovely tea plantations at Peerumed, the Wildlife Sanctuary at Chinnar (60kms away from Devikulam) and the magnificent falls at Thommankuthu (21 kms from Thodupuzha) are also much sought after tourist destinations.

Meenuliyarmudi, Keezharkuthu and Irukallumud near Thommankuthu are also famous small tourist centers. Kuttikkanam and Vagaman are wonderful hill stations and are known as Kerala's Kodaikanal.

Transport Facility

Air: Nearest airports are Kochi : (60 kms from Idukki), Madurai : (72 kms from Idukki), Coimbatore : (97kms from Idukki). It can also be reached from airports at Kozhikode : (217 kms from Idukki), Thiruvananthapuram: (232 kms from Idukki)

Rail: No railway track in Idukki.

Road: Idukki is well connected by roads.

Alapuzha

Alapuzha

Kuttanad :
Kuttanad, called the rice bowl of Kerala because of her wealth of paddy crops, is at the very heart of the backwaters. The scenic countryside of Kuttanad with its shimmering waterways also has a rich crop of banana, cassava and yam. This is perhaps the only region in the world where farming is done 1.5 to 2 m below sea level. Inland waterways which flow above land level are an amazing feature of this region.

Alappuzha beach :
This is one of the most popular picnic spots in Alappuzha. The pier, which extends into the sea here, is over 137 years old. Entertainment facilities at the Vijaya beach park add to the attractions of the beach. There is also an old lighthouse which is greatly fascinating to visitors. The Vijaya beach park: Picnic spot with children's park & boating facilities (Open 1500 - 2000 hrs). Entrance fee Rs. 2 per person; Free entrance for children below 5 years. Boating charge: Rs. 10 for 10 minutes. Other facilities for children: Toy train, bicycles, Video permit Rs. 25, Camera permit: Rs. 5 respectively.

Sea View Park :
The park offers boating facilities and a swimming pool. Boat rentals for 10 minutes: Roundboat (4 seater): Rs. 10 Pedalboat (2 seater): Rs. 15 Pedalboat (4 seater): Rs. 25. Video permit Rs. 15, Camera permit Rs. 100 respectively.

Pathiramanal (11/2 hours by motor boat/30 min. by speedboat from Alappuzha):
According to mythology a young brahmin dived into the Vembanad Lake to perform his evening ablutions and the water made way for land to rise from below, thus creating the enchanting island of Pathiramanal (sands of midnight). This little island on the backwaters is a favourite haunt of hundreds of rare migratory birds from different parts of the world. The island lies between Thaneermukkom and Kumarakom, and is accessible only by boat.

Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple (32 km south of Alappuzha):
Situated near Harippad, this is a serpent shrine under the patronage of a brahman family, headed by a priestess. The ancient shrine is an internationally renowned pilgrim centre dedicated to the Serpent God Nagaraja. Sarpa Yakshi and Naga Yakshi are the beloved consorts of Nagaraja. It is believed that Nagaraja as the installed diety is endowed with the form of Hari (Lord Vishnu) and the spirit of Lord Shiva. Legend has it that the first priestess of Mannarasala gave birth to a five-headed snake, which is believed to reside in the ancestral house to safeguard the family. At Mannarasala barren women are believed to be blessed with children and a special turmeric paste available at the shrine is credited with powers to cure even leprosy.

Champakulam Church :
One of the oldest churches in Kerala, the St. Mary's Church is believed to be one of the seven established by St. Thomas. The annual feast at this church falls on the 3rd Sunday of October every year. The feast of St. Joseph is celebrated on March 19th.

Q S T and R Block Kayal :
These regions are wonders of the indigenous agricultural engineering know-how of Kerala and remind the visitor of the famous dikes of Holland. Extensive areas of land has been reclaimed from the backwaters and are protected by dikes built all around. Here cultivation and habitation are made possible four to ten feet below sea level. A leisurely cruise along the canals that surround these kayals is a memorable experience.

Chavara Bhavan (6 km from Alappuzha. Accessible only by boat):
Chavara Bhavan is the ancestral home of the blessed Kuriakose Elias Chavara. It is now a holy shrine and spiritual resort where thousands of devotees gather for prayer, receive favours and feel amply gratified. Here, a 250 year old historically important beacon of light is preserved intact in its original and primitive form.

Ambalappuzha Sree Krishna Temple (15 km south of Alappuzha):
Built in the typical Kerala architectural style, this temple is famous all over India for the Palpayasam, the daily offering of deliciously sweet milk porridge. It is also in this temple that Pallipana is performed by Velans (sorcerers) once every twelve years. Paintings of the Dasavatharam (the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu) are on display on the inner walls of the Chuttambalam. Ottanthullal, a satiric art form originated by the poet Kunchan Nambiar, was first performed on the premises of this temple.

Arthunkal (22 km north of Alappuzha) :
The St. Sebastian's Church here is an important Christian pilgrim centre. Annual festival: Arthunkal Perunnal - the feast of the patron saint (January)

Edathua Church (24 km from Alappuzha, on the Alappuzha - Thiruvalla Road):
Established in 1810, the church is dedicated to St. George. It is believed that prayers and offerings at this church help to heal all mental disorders and other ailments. During the annual feast (5th, 6th and 7th of May) pilgrims from all parts of South India, irrespective of caste and creed, visit the church and seek the blessings of the saint.

Chettikulangara Bhagavathy Temple, Mavelikkara :
The Kettukazhcha festival at this temple draws large crowds of devotees. Processions of tall decorated structures on chariots, brightly decorated effigies of horses and bullocks and cultural performances make a spectacular pageant. (Festival - February/March)

Krishnapuram Palace (47 km from Alappuzha):
Built by Marthanda Varma, this palace at Karthikapally in Kayamkulam is famous for its mural depicting the story of Gajendramoksham. Dating back to the 18th century, this exquisite piece of art is one of the largest murals in Kerala. The palace museum houses antique sculptures, paintings and bronzes.

Karumadikuttan (3km east of Ambalapuzha):
Many fascinating legends are associated with this 11th century statue of Lord Buddha.