Excursion to Trichur
Located in the central part of the state, Trichur is also referred to as the cultural capital of Kerala. The city and the area around it have a number of museums, art schools, and institutes, which are dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich cultural traditions of Kerala. One of the most important landmarks of this city is the Vadakkunathan Temple, located on a raised hillock in the centre of the city. The temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is an important pilgrim centre in Kerala.
Excursion to Pallipuram Fort
Situated in the northern extremity of the Vypeen Island and built by the Portuguese in 1503, Pallippuram fort is one of the oldest existing European monuments in India. The fort was captured by the Dutch in 1661 and subsequently sold by them to the State of Travancore in 1789. The Catholic Church at Pallipuram is an important pilgrim centre of the Christians
Full day city tour and boat cruise on backwaters
Sightseeing tour of Cochin takes you to the Jewish section where the first emigration of Jews to Kerala is said to have taken place in the 6th Century B.C (In the Ist Century A.D. Jews had fled from Roman persecution and sought haven in Cranganore, 50 miles away). The Jewish Synagogue in Mattancherry was built in 1568 and rebuilt in 1664 with Chinese willow-patterned tiles and gold crowns and has ancient scrolls. Visit the Dutch Palace built by the Portuguese in 1510 and later taken over by the Dutch. See St. Francis Church, the first European Church in India, where Vasco Da Gama was burried until his remains were taken back to Portugal, and the Chinese Fishing nets named after the country of their origin.
A boat cruise in the backwaters takes you in the midst of a lush green setting of shady lagoons, wooded islands and canals. You have the opportunity to see the life of the local people as your boat goes winding past villages and houses on stilts, coconut groves, and small-scale industries making coir rope and mats.
Evening Kathakali Dance Performance
An important component of performing arts of India, is native to Kerala and Kochi is one of its main centers. Besides watching a live performance, one can also learn about the intricate and elaborate details of facial make-up, significance of different colours and masks & costumes.
Kovlam
Thirty years ago Kovlam was a hippy, picture perfect tropical beach. Today, this tiny island beach is the focus of a multi-million dollar business.
Although it's far from paradise today, Kovlam still retains a certain charm and is still a popular place to visit. It consists of two palm fringed coves and several less populated beaches. Beaches are generally safe and clean, making Kovlam a great place to visit.
Zoological Park (Thiruvananthpauram)
This place is one of the first zoos in India. It is strategically placed in a well planned botanical garden. With huge Frangipani and Jacaranda trees dotting the sprawling lawns and wild fowl swimming in the lake, it is like a small jungle in the heart of the city. It also plays abode to a reptile house with different species of snakes.
Padmanabha Swamy Temple
Located inside the east fort, this fascinating temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple portrays both Kerala and the Dravidian styles of architecture. The mural paintings and the stone carvings here are intricate and worth a dekko. The deity reclines on Anantha, the holy serpent. Only Hindus are allowed to enter the temple and they also have to strictly follow the dress code, which is dhoti for the men and a saree for the women.
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