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Time Business News
5 days ago
- Time Business News
12 days Kerala heritage tour
Kerala, famously known as 'God's Own Country', is a land where heritage and nature blend seamlessly. With its backwaters, ancient temples, colonial architecture, and hill stations, a 12 Days Kerala Heritage Tour offers an enriching travel experience for history buffs, culture seekers, and nature lovers alike. This tour is designed to take you on a journey through Kerala's rich past, traditional arts, Ayurvedic wellness, and pristine natural beauty—making it perfect for family vacations, senior travelers, and curious explorers. The 12 Days Kerala Heritage Tour is not just about sightseeing. It's about connecting with Kerala's centuries-old traditions, vibrant art forms, and serene lifestyle. Highlights include: Ancient temples and royal palaces Dutch, Portuguese, and British colonial history Ayurvedic treatments and cultural performances Houseboat stay on the backwaters Visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites and heritage villages Start your heritage journey in Kochi, a historic port city that was once a major hub for spice trade. Explore: Fort Kochi & Chinese Fishing Nets Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace) Paradesi Synagogue St. Francis Church Kathakali performance in the evening Overnight Stay: Kochi Drive to Thrissur, the cultural capital of Kerala. Visit: Vadakkunnathan Temple (UNESCO tentative list) Kerala Kalamandalam (renowned art and culture academy) Thrissur Zoo and Art Museum Overnight Stay: Thrissur Visit the famous Guruvayur Temple, one of India's oldest Krishna temples, then continue to Kozhikode, a coastal city steeped in history. Attractions: Kappad Beach (where Vasco da Gama landed) Pazhassi Raja Museum Sweet Meat Street (SM Street) Overnight Stay: Kozhikode Drive to Wayanad, a tranquil region known for its tribal heritage, caves, and spice plantations. Sightseeing: Edakkal Caves (prehistoric carvings) Wayanad Heritage Museum Pookode Lake Overnight Stay: Wayanad Explore tribal villages, ancient Jain temples, and lush plantations. Enjoy optional activities like: Bamboo rafting Visit to Kuruva Island Trek to Chembra Peak Overnight Stay: Wayanad Travel to Palakkad, known for its traditional Kerala architecture and temples. Highlights: Palakkad Fort (built by Hyder Ali) Kalpathy Heritage Village Malampuzha Dam and Gardens Overnight Stay: Palakkad Drive to Alleppey, the gateway to Kerala's backwaters. En route, enjoy a traditional lunch and observe coir-making villages. Evening: Board a houseboat and cruise the tranquil backwaters. Overnight Stay: Houseboat After disembarking, travel to Kumarakom, a peaceful village on Vembanad Lake. Activities: Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary Explore heritage homestays Traditional toddy tasting Overnight Stay: Kumarakom Drive to Thekkady, home of the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and rich spice heritage. Experiences: Spice plantation tour Visit to a tribal heritage museum Optional boat ride on Periyar Lake Overnight Stay: Thekkady Travel to Munnar, Kerala's most scenic hill station once favored by the British. Attractions: Tea Museum Kolukkumalai Tea Estate (world's highest tea plantation) Visit to British-era bungalows Overnight Stay: Munnar Soak in Munnar's colonial charm and natural beauty. Optional activities: Visit Lockhart Gap Viewpoint Nature walk in tea gardens Attend a heritage walk about plantation history Overnight Stay: Munnar Drive back to Kochi for departure. You may stop at traditional villages or local markets en route for final souvenirs. Combination of historical sites , spiritual centers , and natural wonders , , and Accommodation in heritage hotels , traditional houseboats , and plantation resorts , , and Insightful interactions with local communities and artisans A deep dive into Kerala's cultural roots and eco-friendly lifestyle October to March: Ideal for pleasant weather and clear skies Ideal for pleasant weather and clear skies April to May: Warmer but still enjoyable in the hill stations Warmer but still enjoyable in the hill stations June to September: Monsoon season – lush greenery, fewer crowds, great for Ayurveda Light, breathable clothing Modest attire for temple visits Walking shoes Rain gear (monsoon season) Sunblock and insect repellent Reusable water bottle The 12 Days Kerala Heritage Tour is not just a trip, but a transformative journey through South India's most culturally rich and naturally blessed state. It's a chance to discover the real Kerala — its warm people, vibrant traditions, and timeless stories passed down through generations. Whether you're tracing temple carvings, sipping tea in colonial-era estates, or watching the sun dip below the backwaters, this Kerala tour will leave you with memories that last a lifetime. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Hindustan Times
29-04-2025
- Hindustan Times
How to Reach Alleppey: A Gateway to Kerala's Serene Backwaters
Enjoy a Weekend Getaway with Club Mahindra Alleppey (also known as Alappuzha) is one of Kerala's most sought-after destinations, renowned for its tranquil backwaters, picturesque houseboats, and lush green landscapes. Nestled between the Arabian Sea and Vembanad Lake, it offers a peaceful escape into nature, making it the perfect getaway for those seeking both relaxation and adventure. Whether you're coming from nearby cities or international destinations, this guide will help you plan your trip to Alleppey with ease. How to Reach Alleppey Alleppey is well-connected by road, rail, and air, making it easily accessible for travellers from various parts of India and abroad. Here's how you can reach this charming destination. By Road Alleppey is well-connected by road to major cities like Kochi, Trivandrum, and even Chennai. The drive is smooth, passing through scenic landscapes, lush green paddy fields, and quaint villages. From Kochi: 60 km, 1.5 hours 60 km, 1.5 hours From Trivandrum: 150 km, 3 hours 150 km, 3 hours From Chennai: 630 km, 10-12 hours Scenic Routes to Alleppey If you enjoy scenic drives, then the journey to Alleppey itself is a treat. The roads are surrounded by lush green landscapes, traditional Kerala villages, and serene waterways. Here are some scenic routes you can take. From Kochi to Alleppey The road from Kochi to Alleppey via NH66 is one of the most picturesque routes. This 60 km drive takes you through the heart of Kerala's backwaters, with coconut groves on both sides and glimpses of houseboats gliding through the waterways. Make sure to stop at Changanassery, a town that offers a peek into Kerala's cultural heritage. From Trivandrum to Alleppey A road trip from Trivandrum to Alleppey takes you through a variety of landscapes. The route via NH66 takes around 3 hours and brings you through beautiful coastal roads and palm-lined stretches. Stop at Kovalam Beach to take in the sea breeze or explore the small town of Kottarakkara for its local temples. Scenic Stops Along the Way Here are a few scenic spots you can stop at while on your way to Alleppey. These breaks not only enhance your road trip but also provide a deeper insight into the beauty of Kerala. KumarakomDistance: 40 km from Alleppey Kumarakom is a serene village located on the banks of Vembanad Lake, famous for its bird sanctuary and beautiful houseboats. It's an ideal place to take a peaceful break, watch migratory birds, and take a boat ride. AmbalapuzhaDistance: 15 km from Alleppey Known for its famous Ambalapuzha Temple, this small town offers a tranquil atmosphere and a chance to enjoy Kerala's culture. Don't forget to try the famous Ambalapuzha Palpayasam (a traditional sweet dish). KochiDistance: 60 km from Alleppey While you're passing through Kochi, make sure to visit Fort Kochi for its colonial charm, Mattancherry Palace, and Chinese Fishing Nets. The drive from Kochi to Alleppey also gives you a chance to witness the vibrant Kerala coastline. Tips for a Smooth Trip to Alleppey Start Early : To make the most of your time, start your day early to avoid the afternoon heat, especially if you're heading out for a houseboat ride. : To make the most of your time, start your day early to avoid the afternoon heat, especially if you're heading out for a houseboat ride. Weather : The best time to visit Alleppey is from November to March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for boating. : The best time to visit Alleppey is from when the weather is pleasant and ideal for boating. Pack Smart : Pack light, breathable clothes, and sunscreen. If you're visiting the backwaters, don't forget a hat or sunglasses. : Pack light, breathable clothes, and sunscreen. If you're visiting the backwaters, don't forget a hat or sunglasses. Hydrate: Carry water with you during your excursions, especially if you're exploring the backwaters or beach areas. By Air The nearest airport to Alleppey is Cochin International Airport (COK), which is about 75 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Alleppey in approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Distance: 75 km 75 km Travel Time: 1.5 to 2 hours 1.5 to 2 hours Route: Cochin Airport → NH66 → Alleppey Alternatively, you can fly into Trivandrum International Airport (TRV), about 150 km away from Alleppey. A drive from here takes approximately 3 to 4 hours. By Train Alleppey Railway Station (ALLP) is well-connected to major cities in Kerala and across India. Trains are an affordable and scenic way to travel to Alleppey, offering views of the countryside as you approach the backwaters. From Kochi: 1.5 to 2 hours by train 1.5 to 2 hours by train From Trivandrum: 3 to 4 hours by train 3 to 4 hours by train From Chennai or Bangalore: 12 to 14 hours (depending on the train service) Once you reach Alleppey Station, it's a short drive to the backwaters, houseboats, and resorts. Why Alleppey is Perfect for a Peaceful Getaway Alleppey's charm lies in its laid-back atmosphere, breathtaking backwaters, and timeless Kerala beauty. You can choose to stay at one of the top resorts in Alleppey. For example, Club Mahindra has a resort in Arookutty. This Club Mahindra resort in Alleppey is presented as a place to stay for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those simply looking to unwind. Plan your trip to Alleppey, and experience the serene side of Kerala tourism! Note to the reader: This article is part of HT Auto's paid consumer connect initiative and is independently created by the brand. HT Auto assumes no editorial responsibility for the content, including its accuracy, completeness, or any errors or omissions. Readers are advised to verify all information independently. First Published Date: 29 Apr 2025, 14:06 PM IST
