Tag: Buddhist monasteries

  • Top Tourist Attractions and Pilgrimage Places in Arunachal Pradesh state of India

    Arunachal Pradesh is the northeastern state of India, famous for its snow-covered mountains, Buddhist monasteries, tribal culture, dense forests, and scenic valleys. Arunachal Pradesh is especially known for adventure tourism, Himalayan landscapes, Buddhist heritage, orchids, and diverse indigenous tribes. Itanagar is the capital of Arunachal Pradesh.

    Top Tourist Destinations & Religious Sites in Arunachal Pradesh (District-wise):

    Tawang District’s Attraction:

    Tawang city is headquarter of this district famous for scenic Himalayan area, high altitude lakes and Buddhist culture. Must visit tourist attractions in Tawang district are:

    • Tawang Monastery: One of the largest Buddhist monasteries in India housing 28-foot-high golden statue of Lord Buddha. This site is famous for Tibetan Buddhist culture, mountain views and spiritual importance.(Nearby City: Tawang).
    • Urgelling Monastery: Birthplace of the 6th Dalai Lama, Tsangyang Gyasto, and an important Buddhist pilgrimage site.(Nearby City: Tawang)
    • Sela Pass: A high-altitude Himalayan pass connecting Tawang city to rest of the country.  Famous for snow, lakes, and breathtaking mountain scenery.(Nearby Towns: Dirang / Tawang).
    • Bum La Pass: An historic Indo-China border pass known for snow-covered landscapes and patriotic significance, requires special army permits to visit.(Nearby Town: Tawang)
    • Madhuri Lake: A scenic high-altitude lake surrounded by snowcapped mountains, also known as Sangestar Lake.(Nearby Town: Tawang)
    • Nuranang Falls: This waterfall is one of the most scenic natural wonders and much popular among nature lovers.(Nearby Town: Jang)
    • Tawang War Memorial: A memorial stupa honouring martyred Indian soldiers of 1962 Indo-China War. (Nearby Town: Tawang)
    • Jaswant Ghar: Memorial dedicated to Rifleman Jaswant Singh (MVC), a hero of 1962 Indo-China War. (Nearby Town: Tawang)

    Papum Pare District’s Attraction:

    Papum Pare is a mountainous district headquartered in the town of Yupia. Itanagar, the capital of Arunachal Pradesh, is located in the Papum Pare district. Key Attractions:

    • Ita Fort: A major historical site located in the heart of the city, this fort of bricks gave Itanagar its name
    • Ganga Lake (Geker Sinying): A serene natural lake surrounded by lush green forests and popular for boating and picnics, located just outside the Itanagar city.
    • Itanagar Wildlife Sanctuary: A protected area home to asian elephants, barking deer, tigers, and diverse birdlife.
    • Itanagar Gompa (Buddhist Temple): A beautiful, yellow-roofed monastery, also known as Thupten Gatseling Monastery), consecrated by the 14th Dalai Lama, offering panoramic views of the Itanagar city.
    • Jawaharlal Nehru State Museum: This museum located in Itanagar, houses a rich collection of tribal costumes, weaponry, and handicrafts highlighting Arunachal’s heritage.
    • Craft Centre & Emporium: A living museum in Itanagar for shopping authentic Arunachali crafts, handlooms, bamboo & cane items and traditional costumes.
    • Dikrong River: A charming river site offering scenic views, peaceful relaxation, and  water activities.

    West Kameng District’s Attraction:

    West Kameng is a scenic biodiversity rich district with its headquarter in hill station town of Bomdila. Key tourist attractions are:

    • Gorsam Chorten: A large Buddhist stupa known for its Bhutanese-style architecture and annual festival. (Nearby Town/City: Zemithang)
    • Dirang: A beautiful hill town known for hot water springs, monasteries, historic fort and apple/kiwi orchards. (Nearby Town: Bomdila)
    • Bomdila Town: Famous for Himalayan views, Buddhist monasteries, and pleasant weather.
    • Sangti Valley: A highly scenic valley known for river scenery, black-necked cranes and peaceful surroundings. (Nearby Town: Dirang)
    • Other Attractions: Bomdila Monastery, Sela Pass, Shergaon (Village tourism destination), Chillipam Monastery.

    East Kameng District’s Attraction:

    East Kameng district known for beautiful valleys, rivers and rich indigenous culture is having its headquarter in Seppa, a scenic town on the bank of Kameng River. Key tourist attractions are:

    • Pakke Tiger Reserve: Famous for hornbills, elephants, and tiger conservation (Nearby Town: Seijosa)
    • Other Attractions: Chayangtajo Hill station, Bameng Hill station, Pakke Valley, Pappu Valley, Passa Valley, Ramgarh hanging bridge. Seppa Museum.

    Lohit District’s Attraction:

    Lohit district offering unique blend of lush nature, cultural heritage and spiritual landmarks is having its headquarter in Tezu town. Key attractions in Lohit district are:

    • Parshuram Kund: A sacred Hindu pilgrimage site on the Lohit River, especially visited during Makar Sankranti. (Nearby Town: Tezu).
    • Museum & Craft Cente, Tezu: Housing Mishmi tribal costumes, weapons, art and rare manuscripts.
    • Kamlang wildlife Sanctuary: Home of diverse flora, endangered fauna and hoolock gibbon spices of Mishmi Hills.
    • Glow Lake: A scenic lake situated about one day trek from Tezu.
    • Other attractions: Dong valley, Golden Pagoda (Kongmu Kham), Lohit viewpoint.

    Upper Siang District’s Attraction:

    Upper Siang district located along the Siang River is having its headquarter in Yingkiong town, key attractions are:

    • Mouling National Park: Known for dense forests, trekking and rare Himalayan wildlife species. (Nearby Town: Yingkiong)
    • Siang River: Known for river rafting, adventure sports and scenic beauty. (Nearby Town: Pasighat)
    • Eco-Dumping (Riutala): This area is challenging trekker’s paradise offering scenic views, holy caves and lakes (Sipit lake & yammeng lake). 
    • Tuting: A scenic remote town near Indo-China border, gateway to scenic valleys and trekking expeditions. 
    • Gelling: A village offering view of ‘MacMohon Line’ and rich Tibetan-Buddhist cultural heritage.

    Lower Subansiri District’s Attraction:

    Lower Subansiri district known for pine clad rolling hills and indigenous Apatani tribe, Ziro town is its headqyarter. Key attractions are:

    • Ziro Valley: A UNESCO tentative heritage site famous for green valleys, Apatani tribal culture and paddy fields. (Nearby Town: Ziro)
    • Other Attractions: Talley Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, Kardo hills Shiva Lingam, Ziro Musical festival, Naara Aaba winery (organic kiwi wine) and Tarin Fish Farm.

    Shi Yomi District’s Attraction:

    Shi Yomi district having its headquarter in Tato town is known for snow capped Himalayan peaks, key attractions are:

    • Mechuka Valley: A remote scenic valley near the Indo-China border known for mountains, trekking and Adi tribal wooden homes & tribal culture. (Nearby Town: Aalo)
    • Samten Yongcha Monastery: An old Mahayana Buddhist monastery on hilltop in Mechuka, serving as major pilgrimage site. 
    • Neh Premashubu: A sacred meditation cave at about 13 kms from Mechuka.
    • Sikodido Waterfall: A scenic waterfall between Hirgo and yapik villages.  

    Dibang Valley District’s Attraction:

    Dibang Valley district, headquartered in Anini town, is famous for high altitude lakes and Idu Mishmi tribal culture, Key attractions are:

    • Anini Town: Anini town, located on a plateau between two rivers, is   famous for untouched Himalayan beauty and adventure tourism.
    • Other attractions: Dibang Windlife Sanctuary, Mathum & Dri Valleys, Athupopu (Local sacred site), Mayodia pass, Mawu Aando Waterfalls (near acheso).

    Lower Dibang Valley District’s Attraction:

    Lower Dibang Valley district headquartered in Roing town is famous for biodiversity, Himalayan views and archaeological heritage.

    • Roing Town: A scenic destination known for lakes, waterfalls, trekking, and tribal culture.
    • Bhismaknagar Fort: An ancient archaeological site.
    • Other attractions: Mehao Wildlife sanctuary, Iphni Ghat, Sally Lake & Nehru Van Udyan, Mayudia Pass.

    Changlang District’s Attraction:

    Changlang town itself is headquarter of this district, Key attractions are:

    • Namdapha National Park: A rich biodiversity zone famous for rare wildlife like snow leopard & hoolock gibbon and dense forests. (Nearby Town: Miao)
    • Other Attractions: World War II Cemetery, Miao Town (Museum), Pangsau Pass, lake of No Return, Stilwell Road (Historic route to China during World War II).

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  • Top Tourist Attractions and Pilgrimage Places in Kerala.

    Kerala is a coastal state of India having Arabian Sea shoreline of about 600 Kms. Nature has blesses Kerala with long shoreline beaches, backwaters, mountains of  Western Ghats, bright green valleys, several rivers, waterfalls, exotic flora and fauna and  pleasant & tropical climate throughout the year which makes its various locations  as most sought tourist destinations in India.

    District wise details of tourist interest destinations is :

    Alappuzha :           

    Alappuzha district of Kerala with its district headquarters at Alappuzha city, also known as the “Venice of the East”,  is an important tourist destination in India and is famous for its backwaters,boat races, beaches, marine products and coir industry. Alappuzha is connected by rail with its own Railway Station and it is about 75 kms from Cochin International Airport. Some tourist interest destinations in this district are as under:

    Beaches : 

    • Alappuzha Beach,
    • Andhakaranazhi Beach, 
    •  Marari Beach,
    • Punnapra Beach,
    • Mararikulam Beach ,  
    • Thumpoly Beach,
    • Thottapally Beach and Pathiramanal Island.

    Backwaters:

    • Kuttanad canal,
    • Kainakery canal,
    •  Vembanad Lake,
    • Kayamkulam Lake.

    Forts and Palaces:  Krishnapuram Palace.

    Museums:

    • Krishnapuram Palace,
    • Kayamkulam Revi Karunakaran Memorial Museum
    • Thakazhi Museum and Smritimandapam.

     Other Places of attractions:  Aqua Tourism in Alappuzha, River   Pamba (Alappuzha).

    Pilgrim Centers :

    • Ambalappuzha Sree Krishna Temple,
    • St. Andrew’s Church (Arthunkal),
    • Champakulam Church,
    • Chakkulathukavu Sree Bhagavathy Temple,
    • Chengannur Mahadeva Temple, 
    • Edathua Church, 
    • Chavara Bhavan,
    • Chettikulangara Bhagavathy Temple (Mavelikkara),
    • Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple,
    • Karumadi Kuttan,

    Ernakulam:

    Ernakulam known as commercial capital of Kerala is the richest district of Kerala state in India and its headquarters is located at Kakkanad, a suburb of Kochi city popularly known as ‘Queen of the Arabian Sea’. This district has ‘Cochin international airport’ at Kochi. Some tourist interest destinations in this district are:

    Beaches :

    • Cherai Beach( Kochi),
    • Kuzhupilly Beach(Cochin),
    • Munambam Beach (Ernakulam).

    Forts and  Palaces: 

    • Bastion Bungalow in Fort Kochi,
    • Fort Immanuel at Fort Kochi,
    • Mattancherry Palace or Dutch Palace,
    • Pierce Leslie Bungalow in Fort Kochi,
    • Dutch Cemetery.

    Backwaters:

    • Kumbalangi (Kochi),
    • Marine Drive( Kochi),
    • Willingdon Island (Kochi),
    • Kadambrayar Boating Centre(Ernakulam).

    Museums :

    • Indo-Portuguese Museum(Fort Kochi),
    • Hill Palace Museum,
    • (Thripunithura),
    • Museum of Kerala History,
    • Edappally, (Kochi ).

    Other Placesof attractions: 

    • Jew Street (Kochi),
    • Aqua Tourism in Kochi,
    • Chendamangalam (Ernakulam),
    • David Hall in Fort Kochi,
    • Gazelles(Kochi)
    • Fort Kochi,
    • Haritha Biopark (Ernakulam),
    • Kodanad Elephant Training Centre (Ernakulam),
    • Koder House(Fort Kochi),
    • Old Harbour House (Kochi),
    • Thakur House(Ernakulam),
    • Cochin Club(Fort Kochi),
    • Bishop’s House( Fort Kochi),
    • Vasco House( Fort Kochi),
    • Vasco da Gama square (Ernakulam).

    Pilgrim Centers :

    • Chennamangalam Synagogue,
    • Iringole Bhagavathy Temple, 
    • KaladiMalayattoor Church, 
    • Sree Mahadeva Temple,
    • St. Francis Church (Fort Kochi), 
    • St Mary’s Forane Church ( Kanjoor),

    Idukki :

    Idukki district is the most beautiful district of Kerala state in India, also known as the spice garden of Kerala, is famous for its rich flora and fauna. The administrative headquarters of Idukki district are at Painavu in Thodupuzha taluk at about 5 Kms from Idukki town. Munnar in this district at about 35 Kms from Idukki  is one of the most popular tourist spots due to its beautiful tea plantations. Nearest airport to Idukki is Cochin International Airport at about 70 kms and Coimbatore International Airport (Tamil Nadu) is at about 115 Kms. Nearest Railway Station for Idukki is Kottayam at about 115 kms andAluva ( in Ernakulam) at about 110 Kms. Some tourist interest destinations in this district are as under:

    Hill Stations :

    • Amrithamedu, Kalvary Mount or Kalliyanathandu,
    • Kuttikanam,
    • Parunthumpara,
    • Panchalimedu,
    • Pattumala,
    • Peeru Hills,
    • Peermedu,
    • Pothamedu,
    • Ramakkalmedu,
    • Thrissanku,
    • Rajamala Hills,
    • Pullumedu,
    • Vandanmedu,
    • Vagamon hill station,
    • Vattavada,
    • Echo Point,
    • Mattupetty,
    • Kundala Town,
    • Devikulam Hills,
    • Neelakurinji Flowers blooming  on the Hills of Munnar. 

    Museums in Kerla:  Tea Museum, Munnar.

    Waterfalls :

    • Attukad waterfalls (Munnar),
    • Cheeyappara and Valara Waterfalls,
    • Madammakkulam Waterfalls,
    • Keezharkuthu Waterfalls,
    • Power House waterfalls (Munnar).

    Wildlife Sanctuaries :

    • Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary,
    • Eravikulam National Park (Munnar),  
    • Wildlife Sanctuary,
    • Periyar Tiger Reserve,
    • Thekkady,
    • Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary.

    Other Places of attractions: 

    • Chellarkovil in Kumily,
    • Kolukkumalai the highest tea garden, (Munnar),
    • Kulamav Dam,
    • Kumily, Marayoor (Munnar),
    • Mannar,
    • Sahyadri Ayurvedic Center,
    • Peermedu,
    • Tribal settlement in Peermedu,
    •   Vandiperiyar.

    Pilgrim Centers :

    • Annamalai Temple,
    • Kalvary Mount or Kalliyanathandu,
    • Mangala Devi Temple (in Tamil nadu on Idukki border).

    Kasaragod :

     Kasaragod district of Kerala state in India with its district headquarters at Kasaragod city. This area is known as the land of Gods and is an international fame tourist centre due to its lengthy sandy beaches, Bekal Fort and Beautiful hills. It is also famous for its coir and handloom industries. Kasaragod is connected by rail with its own Railway Station and it is about 50 Kms from Mangalore International Airport, about 200Kms from Calicut International Airport (Kozhikode). Some tourist interest destinations in this district are as under:

    Beaches :

    • Bekal Fort Beach (Kasaragod),
    • Kanwatheertha Beach (Kasaragod),
    • Kappil Beach (Kasaragod),
    • Thaikadappuram Beach (Kasaragod).

    Hill Stations :  Ranipuram Hills (Kasaragod).

    Forts, Palaces and Monuments :

    • Bekal Fort (Kasaragod),
    • Chandragiri Fort ( Kasaragod),   
    • Hosdurg Fort (Kasaragod).

    Backwaters :

    • Chandragiri Fort & River(Kasaragod),
    • Chithari a small tropical Island,
    • Kanhangad (Kasaragod),
    • Padanna Backwaters (Kasaragod).  

    Other Places of attractions: 

    • Anandashram,
    • Kanhangad (Kasaragod) ,
    • Aqua Tourism in Kasaragod,
    • Central Plantation Crops Research Institute (Kasaragod),  
    • Edneer Mutt (Kasaragod),
    • Nileswaram (Kasaragod).

    Pilgrim Centers :

    • Ananthapura Lake Temple,
    • Madiyankulam Durga Temple,
    • Madhur Temple, 
    • Manjeswaram,  
    • Malik Ibn Deenar Masjid Sree Mahalingeswara Temple (Adoor), 

    Kozhikode:

    Kozhikode city also known as Calicut is the largest urban area of Kerala state of India and is district head quarters of district Kozhikode.   This city was known as the “City of Spices” during middle ages due to its role as main trading point of spices and Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama dropped anchor at Kozhikode in 1498 which opened a trade route between Europe and Malabar(India). This district has ‘Calicut international airport’ also known as Kozhikode international airport’ located at Karipur,  about 28 Kms from Kozhikode city. Some tourist interest destinations in this district are as under:

    Beaches :

    • Beypore(Kozhikode),
    • Kappad Beach(Kozhikode),
    • Kozhikode Beach,
    • Thikkoti Lighthouse (Kozhikode),
    • Kolavi Palam Beach (Payyoli),
    • Vadakara Sand Banks Beach.

    Hill Stations: Iringal,  Payamkuttimala.

    Museums:

    • Kirtads(Kozhikode),
    • Krishna Menon Museum(Kozhikode),
    • Pazhassi Raja Museum & Art Gallery (Kozhikode).

    Waterfalls:

    • Arippara Waterfalls (Kozhikode),
    • Vellari Mala (Thusharagiri),  
    • Thusharagiri Waterfalls.

    Wildlife sanctuaries: Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary (Kozhikode).  

    Other Places of attractions: 

    • Aqua Tourism in Kozhikode,
    • C.V.N. Kalari (Edakkad),
    • Janakikad (Kozhikode),
    • Mananchira Square (Kozhikode),
    • S. M. Street (Kozhikode).

    Pilgrim Centers :

    • Lokanarkavu temple,
    • Mother of God Church,
    • Pisharikavu temple,
    • St. Mary’s Church, at Tali Temple,
    • Varakkal Devi Temple,

    Kollam :

    The Kollam city located on the banks of Ashtamudi Lake and the Kallada river is the district headquarters of Kollam district of Kerala state of India. The  Kollam district is known for cashew processing and coir manufacturing industries and is a famous tourist destination. Kollam is connected by rail with its own Railway Station and it is about 65 Kms from Trivandrum International Airport. Some tourist interest destinations in this district are as under:

    Beaches :

    • Kollam Beach(Kollam),
    • Neendakara  Beach (Kollam),
    • Thirumullavaram Beach (Kollam).

    Forts & Palaces: Thangasseri (Kollam).  

    Backwaters :

    • Ashtamudi Lake (Kollam),
    • Alumkadavu (Kollam),
    • Munroe Island (Kollam),
    •  Ashramam Picnic Village in  Kollam,
    • Sasthamkotta in Kollam(‘Queen of Lakes’).

    Museums in Kerla:  Police Museum (Kollam) :

    Waterfalls: Palaruvi Waterfalls (Kollam).

    Wildlife sanctuaries: Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary (Kollam) :

    Other Places of attractions: 

    • Alumkadavu (Kollam),
    • Aqua Tourism in Kollam,
    • Thenmala Ecotourism ( Kollam).

    Pilgrim Centers :

    • Achankovil Temple,
    • Ariankavu Temple,
    • Cheriazheekal (Deccan Kashi) Temple (Karunagappally), 
    • Kottarakkara Ganapathy Temple, Kulathupuzha,
    • Malanada Duryodhana Temple,
    • Mata Amritanandamayi Math (Amritapuri),
    • St. Mary’s Orthodox Church (Kallada),
    • Cave Temple (Kottukal),
    • Ochira Temple,

    Kannur:

    Kannur district of Kerala state of India having its headquarters at Kannur city is known for its beaches and natural treasures being the part of the Western Ghats. This city was an important trading centre for Arabia and Persia during 12th century. This district has ‘Kannur International Airport’ located at Kannur city.  Some tourist interest destinations in this district are as under:

    Beaches :

    • Kizhunna beach (Kannur),
    • Meenkunnu Beach(Kannur),
    • Muzhappilangad Beach (Kannur),
    • Payyambalam Beach (Kannur).

    Hill Stations : Madayipara, Pythal Mala.

    Forts, Palaces: St. Angelo’s Fort and Thalassery Fort.

    Backwaters : Valapattanam and Kavvayi Kayal.

    Museums:  Arakkal Kettu Museum.

    Wildlife sanctuaries: Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary.

    Other Places of attractions: 

    • Kanhirode Weavers Cooperative Society Ltd (Kannur), 
    • Kunhimangalam village (Kannur),
    • Malayala Kalagramam ( Kannur),
    •  Overbury’s Folly,
    • Thalassery (Kannur),
    • Thalassery (Kannur),
    • Valapattanam (Kannur).

    Pilgrim Centers :

    • Odathil Palli mosque (Thalassery), 
    • Parassinikadavu Sri Muthappan Temple or Parassini Madappura Sree Muthappan Temple,
    • Raja Rajeswara temple,
    • Peralassery Sri Subrahmanya Temple, 
    • Sree Subramania Temple (Payyannur),
    •   Mary’s Forane Church (Taliparamba), 
    • Suryanarayana Temple (Kadiroor), 
    • Thodikkulam Siva Temple (Kannavam),
    •   Trichambaram Temple Sree Ramaswamy Temple (Thiruvangad),

    Kottayam:

    Kottayam district of Kerala state of India having its headquarters at Kottayam city is known for its panoramic backwater stretches, hills and hillocks, extensive rubber plantations, places associated with many legends. The literally means of Kottayam is the interior of a fort. Kottayam is connected by rail with its own Railway Station and it is about 95 kms from Cochin International Airport. Some tourist interest destinations in this district are as under:

    Hill Stations :

    • Ilaveezhapoonchira (Kottayam),
    • Kottathavalam (Kottayam),
    • Kannadipara (Kottayam),  
    • Vazhikkadavu ( Kottayam),
    • Nadukani Hills (Kottayam).

    Forts & PalacesPoonjar Palace.

    Backwaters :

    • Kumarakom,
    • Mannanam,
    • Vem banad Lake in Kottayam.

    Museums: Bay Island Driftwood Museum.

    Waterfalls: Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls.

    Wildlife sanctuaries: Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary.

    Other Places of attractions: 

    • Anchuvilakku- a stone lamp post (Kottayam),
    • Aqua Tourism in Kottayam,:
    • Marthoma Seminary (Kottayam).

    Pilgrim Centers : Kottayam

    • Alapra, Aruvithura Church,
    • CSI Cathedral Church,
    • Dharmasastha Temple (Pakkil),
    • Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple,
    • Juma Masjid (Thazhathangadi),
    • Sree Subramania Swamy Temple (Perunna),
    • The St. George’s Church (Puthupalli),
    • St. Mary’s Church (Bharananganam),
    • St. Mary’s Church(Kudamaloor),
    • St. Joseph’s Monastery (Mannanam),
    • St. Mary’s Church (Manarcad),
    • St. Mary’s Church (Kuravilangad),
    • St. Mary’s Forane Church (Athirampuzha), 
    • St. Mary’s Orthodox Syrian Church (Cheriapally),
    • Sun Temple (Adityapuram),
    • Thangalppara (mausoleum of Sheikh Fariduddin),
    • Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple,
    • Vaikom Mahadeva Temple,
    • Vavarambalam (Erumeli), 
    • Vimalagiri Church,
    • The Old Seminary,
    • Kaduthuruthi Valiya Palli Church,
    • Kalkulathukavu Devi temple,
    • Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church,
    • Kalkulathukavu Devi temple,
    • Kurisumala (Kottayam),
    • Mortal remains of the St. Alphonsa at church,
    • Pallipurathukavu,
    • Panachikkad Saraswathi Temple, 
    • Puthenpalli Juma Masjid (Erattupetta),

    Malappuram:

    Malappuram district of Kerala state of India having its headquarters at Malappuram city is famous centre for Hindu-Vedic learning and Islamic philosophy and has made abundant contributions to the cultural heritage of Kerala. The temples and mosques of this area are known for their amazing festivals. The literally means of Malappuram is “terraced place atop the hills”. The nearest Railway Stations of Malappuram are  Angadippuram( about 20 kms), Pattikkad (about 25 Kms), Melattur ( abou 32 Kms) & Tanur (30 Kms) and it is about 30 Kms from Calicut International Airport (Kozhikode).  Some tourist interest destinations in this district are as under:

    Beaches :

    • Padinjarekkara Beach (Malappuram),
    •  Vakkad Beach & Tirur,
    •  Puzha (Malappuram),
    • Vallikkunnu beach (Malappuram).

    Historic Places : Nilambur Kovilakam :

    Museums:

    • Teak Museum,
    • Nilambur(Malappuram),
    • Thunchan Memorial,
    • Tirur(Malappuram).

    Waterfalls :  Adyanpara Waterfalls (Malappuram).

    Other Places of attractions: 

    • Nilambur Teak plantation (Malappuram),
    • Nedumkayam Rainforest(Malappuram),
    • Poonkudil Mana (Malappuram),
    • Ponnani (Malappuram),
    • Poonthanam Illam (Malappuram),
    • Kottakkunnu (Malappuram),
    • Tanur (Malappuram).

    Pilgrim Centers :

    • Alathiyur Hanuman Temple,
    • Garuda Temple (Triprangode),
    • Jama-at Mosque, Mamburam,
    • Thali Temple (Perinthalmanna),
    • Pazhayangadi Mosque (Kondotti),
    • Sree Kadampuzha Bhagavathy Temple, 
    • Thirumandhamkunnu Temple, 
    • Thirunavaya,
    • Trikandiyur Shiva Temple (Tirur),
    • Vettaikorumakan temple (Nilambur), 

    Pathanamthitta :

    Pathanamthitta district of Kerala state of India having its headquarters at Pathanamthitta city located  near the Western Ghats and surrounded by the hills is famous for Pilgrimage Tourism. This district is famous for the oldest church believed to have been built by Saint Thomas and the Kaviyoor Mahadeva temple constructed in the early years of the 10th century. Pathanamthitta is amalgamation of two words i.e. Pathanam and Thitta which mean an array of houses on the river side.The nearest Railway stations to Pathanamthitta are Chengannur (about 28Kms) and Thiruvalla (about 30kms). The nearest airports to Pathanamthitta are (Trivandrum International Airport (about 105 Kms) and  Cochin International Airport (about 125 Kms).  Some tourist interest destinations in this district are as under :

     Hill Stations :  Charalkunnu Hills and Gavi Eco-Tourism.

    Waterfalls :  Aruvikuzhy Waterfalls and Perunthenaruvi.

    Other Places of attractions: 

    • Aranmula (A Heritage village),
    • Kaviyoor or Thrikkaviyoor Mahadeva Temple ( Kaviyoor),
    • Konni elephant training centre,
    • Mannadi, Muloor Smarakam,
    • Elavumthitta, Nilackal,
    • Omallur,
    • Pandalam,  
    • Pandalam,  
    • Thiruvalla Town, 
    • Vasthuvidya Gurukulam.

    Pilgrim Centers :

    • Aranmula Sree Parthasarathy Temple,
    • Aranmula Sree Parthasarathy Temple, Cherukolpuzha,
    • Sree Subramanya Swamy Temple, Kodumthara,
    • Sree Vallabha Temple (Thiruvalla),
    •   St. John’s Cathedral (Thiruvalla),
    • The rock cut Siva Temple,
    • Thekkekudi Cave Temple, 
    • Kadammanitta Devi Temple, 
    • Kaviyoor or Thrikkaviyoor Mahadeva Temple,
    • Kodumon Chilanthyambalam,
    • The Malayalapuzha Bhagavathy Temple,
    • Manjinikkara Dayara Church,
    •   Parumala Church, 
    • Sabarimala Temple,

    Palakkad:

     Palakkad district of Kerala state of India having its headquarters at Palakkad city is famous for the Palakkad Fort, the Jain temple, the annual Ratholsavam, lush Malampuzha gardens and dams. Palakkad is connected by rail with its own Railway Station and it is about 145 kms from Cochin International Airport, about 120 Kms from Calicut International Airport (Kozhikode) and about about 70 kms from Coimbatore International Airport (Tamilnadu). Some tourist interest destinations in this district are as under :

    Hill Stations :  Dhoni Hills & Water falls and Nelliyampathy Hill.

    Forts & Palaces : Tipu’s Fort or  Palakkad Fort.

    Wildlife sanctuaries: Choolannur Pea Fowl Sanctuary and  Silent Valley (National Park).

    Other Places of attractions: 

    • Attappadi, Chittur  Gurumadom,
    • Gandhi Seva Sadan Kathakali and Classic Arts Academy,
    • Kottayi village,
    •  Krishnankutty Pulavar Memorial,
    • Kunchan Samarkam,
    • Malampuzha Garden & Dam,
    • Navara Eco Farm at Chittur,
    • Olappamanna Mana,
    • Ottappalam,
    • Poomully Mana,
    • Siruvani Dam (Palakkad),
    • Thenari,
    • Thrithala.

    Pilgrim Centers :

    • Jainamedu or Jainimedu Jain temple,
    • Ongallur Taliyil Shiva Temple,
    • Thiruvalathoor Ancient Temple,
    • Thiruvegappura Sankaranarayana Temple, Thenari,

    Thiruvananthapuram(Trivandram):

    Thrissur is district of Kerala state of India having its headquarters at Thrissur city located on the west coast of India. This district named Thrissur means “small sacred place” is an important commercial and cultural centre is known for its ancient temples, churches, &  mosques and Thrissur Pooram is main colourful temple festival. Thrissur city is famous for the Vadakkumnathan Temple dedicated to Shiva located on a hillock around which this city exist.  Thrissur is connected by rail with its own Railway Station and it is about 100Kms from Calicut International Airport (Kozhikode). Some tourist interest destinations in this district are as under :

    Beaches :

    • Chavakkad Beach,
    • Nattika Beach,
    • Thalikulam Snehatheeram Beach.

    Forts & Palaces : Shakthan Thampuran Palace

    Museums :

    • Archaeological Museum,
    • Shakthan Thampuran Palace,
    • Vaidyaratnam Ayurveda Museum(Thaikkattussery).

    Waterfalls : Athirappilly  & Vazhachal waterfalls.

    Wildlife sanctuaries: Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary and Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary.

    Other Places of attractions: 

    • Kauthuka Park,
    • Kerala Kalamandalam,
    • Kerla Sangeetha Nataka Academi(Chembukkavu),
    • Kerala Sahitya Academi,
    • Kodungalloor /Kodungallur,
    • Punnathoor Kotta, Town Hall.

    Pilgrim Centers :

    • Arattupuzha Temple,
    • Ariyannur temple,
    • Cheraman Juma Masjid,
    • Sree Krishna Temple (Guruvayur),
    • Irinjalakuda Koodal Manikyam Temple,
    • Paramekkavu Bhagavathy Temple (Vadakkumnathan),  
    • Sampaloor Church,
    • St. Mary’s Forane Church (Koratty),
    • St. Thomas Church (Kodungalloor), 
    • The Holy Cross Church (Mapranam),
    • Vadakkumnathan Temple,
    • Thiruvambady Temple,

    Thrissur :

    Thrissur is district of Kerala state of India having its headquarters at Thrissur city located on the west coast of India. This district named Thrissur means “small sacred place” is an important commercial and cultural centre is known for its ancient temples, churches, &  mosques and Thrissur Pooram is main colourful temple festival. Thrissur city is famous for the Vadakkumnathan Temple dedicated to Shiva located on a hillock around which this city exist.  Thrissur is connected by rail with its own Railway Station and it is about 100Kms from Calicut International Airport (Kozhikode). Some tourist interest destinations in this district are as under :

    Beaches :

    • Chavakkad Beach,
    • Nattika Beach,
    • Thalikulam Snehatheeram Beach.

    Forts & Palaces : Shakthan Thampuran Palace

    Museums :

    • Archaeological Museum,
    • Shakthan Thampuran Palace,
    • Vaidyaratnam Ayurveda Museum(Thaikkattussery).

    Waterfalls : Athirappilly  & Vazhachal waterfalls.

    Wildlife sanctuaries: Chimmini Wildlife Sanctuary and Peechi-Vazhani Wildlife Sanctuary.

    Other Places of attractions: 

    • Kauthuka Park,
    • Kerala Kalamandalam,
    • Kerla Sangeetha Nataka Academi(Chembukkavu),
    • Kerala Sahitya Academi,
    • Kodungalloor /Kodungallur,
    • Punnathoor Kotta,
    • Town Hall.

    Pilgrim Centers :

    • Arattupuzha Temple,
    • Ariyannur temple,
    • Cheraman Juma Masjid,
    • Sree Krishna Temple (Guruvayur),
    • Irinjalakuda Koodal Manikyam Temple,
    • Paramekkavu Bhagavathy Temple (Vadakkumnathan),  
    • Sampaloor Church,
    • St. Mary’s Forane Church (Koratty),
    • St. Thomas Church (Kodungalloor), 
    • The Holy Cross Church (Mapranam),
    • Vadakkumnathan Temple,
    • Thiruvambady Temple,

    Wayanad:

     Wayanad  is district of Kerala state of India having its headquarters at Kalpetta city.  Kalpetta is the main hub of tourism activities as tourist sites in this district are easily approachable from this city and there are numbers of hotels and resorts within and surrounding this city.  This tribal oriented district is famous for camping & trekking trails, waterfalls, caves, bird watching sites, its flora & fauna, beauty of paddy fields and other wonderful sights. This district is also for cash crops grown here like pepper, cardamom, coffee, tea, spices and other condiments. The name Wayanad is made from words ‘Vayal’ & ‘Nadu’ means to paddy field land and known as Kerala’s lush paradise. Kalpetta city is about 70 kms from Kozhikode railway station  and about 60 Kms from Calicut International Airport. Some tourist interest destinations in this district are as under:

    Hill Stations :

    • Chembra Peak,
    • Edakkal Caves,
    • Neelimala viewpoint,
    • Vythiri.

    Museums : Wayanad Heritage Museum at Ambalavayal.

    Waterfalls:

    • Chethalayam Waterfall ,
    • Kanthanpara waterfall,
    • Sentinel Rock or Soochipara Waterfalls.

    Wildlife sanctuaries :

    • Begur Wildlife Sanctuary,
    • Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary,
    • Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary,
    • Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary.

    Other Places of attractions: 

    • Boys Town (a herbal garden),
    • Edakkal Caves,
    • Pakshipathalam,
    •  Pazhassi Tomb,
    • Wayanad Ghats.

    Pilgrim Centers : Bathery Jain Temple and Thirunelly Temple.

    Padmanabhapuram Palace, in Kanniyakumari district of Tamil Nadu State:

    The Padmanabhapuram Palace, also known as Kalkulam Palace, is situated in at Padmanabhapuram town in Kanniyakumari District of Tamil Nadu and is under the control of the Archaeological Department of Kerala Government. Padmanabhapuram town is about 55 Kms from thiruvananthapuram and about 40 Kms from Kanniyakumari on road connecting these to famous destinations.

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