Munnar – A Perfect Gateway to the God’s Own Country

On of the most beautiful hill stations of South India, Munnar is located in Idukki district of Kerala. Munnar is situated at an altitude of 1,600 m (6,000 ft) above sea level, at the confluence of the mountain streams of Muthirappuzha, Nallathanni and Kundala. Often referred to as the ‘Switzerland of India’, Munnar is known for its natural surroundings and old-world architecture.

Since the British rule in India, the hill station is surrounded by lush tea gardens. The thick forest cover, wild jungles with indomitable elephant herds add more to the unparalleled beauty of Munnar. Besides, the bluish tint of the Neelakkurinji Mountains and the wet pleasant climate throughout the year, made the hill station more picturesque and charming.

Close to Munnar is the Eravikulam National Park which is home to Nilgiri Tahr. Munnar is also known for the Neelakurini, a rare orchid that blooms once in 12 years. For the discerning traveller, monsoons is the perfect season to visit Munnar. During monsoon Munnar offers a perfect setting to be one with nature and experience its unique creations. Silence pervades the atmosphere of Munnar, hence it makes a perfect gateway to the God’s Own Country, Kerala.

Munnar is easily and only accessible by road. A scenic four-hour drive (130 km) from Cochin or a 4.5 hours drive from Kottayam takes one to Munnar. Nearest airports from Munnar are Kochi (130 km), Coimbatore (156 km), Madurai (142 km), Kozhikode (287 km) and Thiruvananthapuram (302 km). Nearest railway stations from Munnar are Kochi, Kottayam, Madurai and Thiruvananthapuram.

Kerala Beaches

God’s Own Land – Kerala is bestowed with a number of natural jewells. Beaches are one of the nature’s precious gift to Kerala. Set along the Arabian Sea, Kerala has a number of lovely beaches which draws thousands of tourists every year. Kerala is also famous for Ayurveda and Spa across the world. You will find several Ayurveda and Spa centres on Kerala beaches offering a variety of treatments. So, visit Kerala, head towards the beaches and pass some quality time amidst the beautiful natural surroundings.

Alappuzha Beach : Situated in Alappuzha district, the beach is a famous tourist spot of Kerala. Alappuzha is blessed with nature’s green green beauties such as lagoons, vast lakes and numerous fresh water rivers, . Pay a visit to the long sandy beach and relax amidst the beautiful natural surroundings. Also enjoy some fun-filled leisure activities on this spectacular beach. You will see the 140 years old pier into the sea here. Vijaya Beach Park and old lighthouse are other attractions of Alappuzha Beach. Entertainment options are available at the Vijaya Beach Park including children’s park and boating facilties.

Bekal Beach : Bekal Beach lies close to historic Bekal fort, the biggest and best preserved fort in Kerala. You may pass quality time on twin palm fringed beaches. Visit the fort to get a glimpse of the bygone era.

Beypore Beach : A beautiful beach, Beypore Beach is located 10 km south of Kozhikode at the mouth of Chliyar river. During ancient period, Beypore was one of the prominent ports, fishing harbors and an important trade and maritime centre of Kerala. Beypore was also much sought after by merchant of Western Asia for its ship building industry. Even today Beypore is famous as a commercial town of Kerala and welcome tourists with its beach.

Fort Kochi Beach : The beach is situated in historic Fort Kochi city, 12 km away from Ernakulam. Originally a fishing village, Kochi became the first European township in India. You will see the historic fort and several other interesting structures erected by the Portuguese, the Dutch and the British. After exploring the historic city, visit the beach to take a leisurely walk or relax on the clean sands.

Kappad Beach : Kappad Beach is located at a distance of 16 kms from Kozhikode (Calicut). Vasco-da-Gama landed on this historic beach 27th of May 1498, with 170 men in three vessels. You can see a monument on the beach commemorates this historic event. A rock that protrudes into the sea is a major attraction of Kappad Beach. The temple perched on the rock is believed to be 800 years old.

Kovalam Beach : A world-famous beach resort, Kovalam is situated 16 kms south of Thiruvananthapuram. Kovalam Beach consists of three successive small crescent beaches namely the Lighthouse Beach, Hawah and Samudra. The lovely coconut-palm fringed beach has a number of Ayurveda, Yoga and meditation centers. The palm-fringed bays of Kovalam in secluded coconut groves, provides a relaxed stay to visitors. Everyday in the evening the quiet atmosphere of Kovalam is enlivened by Kathakali performances, the classical dance-drama of Kerala

Marari Beach : Marari Beach lies right in the heart of the spice coast, just an hour from Cochin. A soft sandy beach, Marari is fringed with palm groves and an ideal retreat for those who are looking for perfect peace. Apart from a relaxing vacation, you can experience the traditional Keralan hospitality at its best at Marari.

Somatheeram Beach : Somatheeram is a perfect relaxing beach having an ayurvedic resort for all kind of ayurvedic treatments. Besides the beach, the lush green terraced gardens sloping down the beach and the cool sea changing will surely mesmerize you.

Thirumullavaram Beach : Thirumullavaram Beach lies at a distance of 6 km from Kollam. This secluded beach is a beautiful picnic spot and attracts large number of visitors.

Varkala Beach : Situated 54 kms away from Thiruvananthapuram, Varkala Beach is a peaceful palm fringed beach, provides a welcome break from crowds of cities. Varkala is known for mineral springs and fantastic massage. The mineral springs is believed to have curative properties, while the massage rejuvenate your mind and body. Varkala beach is also an important pilgrim centre for Hindus and it is home to 2,000 year old Janardana Swamy temple. Nature Care Centre is another attraction of Varkala Beach.

Other Popular Beachs of Kerala : Cherai Beach (Ernakulam), Shanghumukham Beach (Thiruvanathapuram), Thangasseri Beach (Kollam), Payyambalam Beach (Kannur), Kizhunna Ezhara Beach (Kannur), Kappil Beach, Padinharekara Beach and Pallikere Beach.