Multi Activities

If you are a nature lover to the core, then you wouldn't want to miss this Bamboo rafting at Periyar Tiger Reserve, Thekkady. This unique eco-tourism program allows you to enjoy the enchanting beauty of the forests where you loll slightly in the bamboo, watch the arboreal animals and enjoy the sweet medley of the birds. You can traverse through many of the forest areas when you raft, and most of the time, this can be arranged from early morning and goes on for 10 hours. The same can be enjoyed at Wayanad too!

If you are intent on experiencing the culture of Kerala at close quarters, then you can go on kayaking and canoeing. Different kinds of kayaking opportunities are available for guests and you can choose from among them. The incomparable beauty of the backwaters and mesmerizing dense foliage beyond it can be enjoyed through out the kayak tour.

If you are keen on mountain climbing, there are some spots where you can enjoy the sport. Chembra Peak in Wayanad is a popular point for mountain climbing. It will take you one full day to climb the mountain and you need to protect yourself with sun blocks and mosquito repellents while climbing. Of course, snacks and water are other must-carry items. The climb can be steep, rough, and you will have to suffer through mist obstructing the view. Munnar is another destination where you can discover many mountains and also over night camping facilities available here.

You can go into the forests at Thekkady and walk along the tiger trail. There will be expert guides to help you spot the other animals and a walk along the dense forests with comfortable, camouflaging clothes is certainly inspiring. You can even cook in the jungle, enjoy a simple meal, sleep in the tent and if lucky, you can certainly spot a tiger. Trekking will certainly give you a taste of the mysterious forests of Kerala; but try as you might, you cannot crack the mystery… it still eludes you.

This is one of the most invigorating experiences of staying in this enchanting land. You can stay at the tree-houses where you can actually see for miles and spot the different animals from the vantage point. Elephants, tigers, leopards, pigs, wild boar, bears and plenty of other animals may walk right below your tree-house. Get acquainted with the majestic beauty of Kerala forests and observe the subtle, yet myriad aspects of the forest life right from your tree house.

This facility is offered at many resorts in Kerala, and of course, it will be a lifetime experience because you can listen to the chirping of the various birds in the morning, enjoy the sun's rays peeping through the dense trees and the rhythmic hum of the beetles in the evening. Munnar, Wayanad has amazing Tree Houses and TourPocket has our own TreeHouse at Munnar at Ela Ecoland.

Of course, this is not the kind of workout that you do at your gym. You see this traditional 'treadmill' in the paddy fields of Kerala. If the farmer allows you, can try pedaling on the treadmill; the main function of this treadmill is to irrigate the paddy fields. It is going to be a whole lot of fun, and you can get your muscles toned too. We do encourage farm tourism a lot.

Living in a tree house will give you a ringside view of the forests, but going on a wildlife safari will definitely take you beyond all that. The biodiversity of the country and the amazing flora and fauna will invoke a deep sense of resoluteness in you, and through that you will realize the importance of protecting the natural beauty, without which, mankind will be extinguished like the snuff of a candle. Both day and nocturnal safaris are available to tourists.

Kerala is beautiful in every sense of the word, and there are plenty of interesting places to see as well. Apart from the adventurous activities mentioned above, you can also enjoy elephant rides (which is indeed adventurous for me!) and also take part in elephant processions conducted during temple festivals.

There are many more options like Paragliding, Sea Surfing, Scuba Diving, Biking…Well, for adventure enthusiasts, sky is the limit for venting out their creative energy in Kerala! Do share your experience. What adventure activity did you enjoyed the most while touring with us.

The coastal regions of Kerala have a network of waterways, inlets, estuaries, lakes and natural canals connecting coastal towns. This interlinked body of waterways is known as the backwaters in Kerala, over 1000 km of which is navigable. Moving in traditional houseboats along these backwaters to enjoy the scenic landscape is a wonderful experience and extremely popular and must do while at Kerala.

The leisurely cruise along the famous backwaters of Kerala gives one a first hand experience of the village life style in the state and it's rustic activities like coir-making and prawn farming. You cannot miss the breathtaking view of the water, land, birds and human habitation on the water side, coexisting peacefully.

The hub of backwater tourism in Kerala, Alleppey or Alappuzha means land between the sea where a network of rivers flows into it. If you are in Alleppey, perhaps your main reason to be there is to cruise through the backwaters in Kerala. Backwater by definition means "a part of a river not reached by the current, where the water is stagnant", and Kerala showcases a great deal of its picturesque backwaters in Alleppey. The houseboat rides along these backwaters can prove exhilarating to the tourists as they take you through Kottayam, Alleppey,Quilon, Kumarakom and Kuttanad area.

Kerala, the land of mountains, rivers, lakes, waterfalls and backwaters, has numerous national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. The enchanting green forests with elephants, tigers, wild dogs, sambars, gaurs, leopards, as well as many exotic species of reptiles, land and water birds offers a wonderful sight to the tourists. Some of the reputed forest zones such as Silent Valley are located in Kerala.

Kerala, the naturally green state in India, with a plethora of greens with thick undergrowths and verdant forests, a temperate climate and so many natural sources of water, provide the perfect habitat for the growth of wildlife. Naturally there are many wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala that have been developed to look after and preserve the wide variety of birds and animals in the wilderness of Kerala. The Kerala Wildlife sanctuaries are major tourist attractions where people from all over the world come to catch a glimpse of some rare species of animal or bird and some stunningly beautiful nature spots in Kerala.

There are treks that can be taken along with nature trails and nature walks along the green pastures of the sanctuaries. The visitors can also go on wildlife safaris, on jeeps or elephants, and watch the wild animals in their natural habitats in the interior of the wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala. There are a number of wildlife sanctuaries and bird sanctuaries in Kerala, which constitute a repertoire of natural wealth for the state.

Ayurveda is the vedic system of health care that developed in Kerala, India over 5000 years ago. This ancient science is health specific, not disease specific and takes into account the patients entire personality - body, mind and spirit. Ayurveda is based on the ancient wisdom of good living. Thus, Ayurveda is defined as the Science of life. It uses herbs and oils to heal and rejuvenate, and thus restore balance and good health.

Keralas equable climate, natural abundance of forests (with a wealth of herbs and medicinal plants), and the cool monsoon season (June - November) are best suited for Ayurvedas curative and restorative packages. In fact, today, Kerala is the only state in India which practices this system of medicine with absolute dedication. Ayurveda evolved around 600 BC in India. This new system of medicine focused on holistic treatment and stressed on the prevention of body ailments in addition to curing them.

Followed by the Dravidians and Aryans alike, Ayurveda has been practised ever since. Today, its a unique, indispensable branch of medicine - a complete naturalistic system that depends on the diagnosis of your bodys humours - vata, pitta and kapha - to achieve the right balance. Ayurveda believes in the treatment of not just the affected part, but the individual as a whole. This makes it the natural way to rejuvenation, eliminating all toxic imbalances from the body and thus regaining resistance and good health. TourPocket organizes various Ayurvedic packages, treatments in Kerala. We have carefully chooses the best group of doctors, hospitals, resorts which offers effective treatments.

Kerala cuisine is famous for its mouthwatering recipes and authentic Malayali dishes. Kerala food is spicy and delectable. Kerala has it's own distinctive cuisine using the ingredients locally available. Sea food is popular among Malayalees. The evolution of the culinary style of Kerala can be traced to the society, culture, history and topography of the state.

The local Kerala food, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian, includes a lot of coconut as that is grown aplenty in the coastal areas. Grated coconut is included in virtually every dish. Coconut milk is used to make the gravies and lends a sweet tinge to the cooking. The oil used for cooking also is mainly coconut or vegetable oil. The red variety of rice (Kuththari)that grows well in this fertile soil is the staple food.

The average Malayali is very liberal in his use of spices. The commonly used spices are green chillies, cumin, coriander, clove, cinnamon, cardamom and dried red chillies. Curry and coriander leaves added fresh provide a subtle yet irresistible flavor. Steam cooked food is commonly used in Kerala. A great emphasis is laid on healthy cooking.

The vegetarian cuisine of Kerala is mildly flavored, gently cooked and is light on the stomach.The non vegetarian Malayalee food items are spicy and scrumptious. Sea food such as fish, crabs, shellfish, and lobsters are included in everyday cooking especially in the coastal regions. Smaller varieties of fish are dried, salted and pickled. They may or may not be fried before consumption. Sardines and Mackerel are the everyday fish.

Kerala,the land of coconuts is famous the world over for its breathtaking scenery, beautiful lagoons, superb lush mountain regions, carpets of spice and tea plantations, excellent sandy beaches and the irresistible charm of its cascading, beautiful waterfalls. No wonder the National Geographic Traveler recommends Kerala as one of the 50 greatest must see top tourist destinations in the world. It is also one of the top 10 tourist destinations listed in the Paradise Found category.

The forests of Western ghats are punctuated with large and small waterfalls that gurgle and splash down the mountain side. The wooded forests of the Western ghats are hidden with cascading showers that enchant the visitors. The important waterfalls in Kerala are Athirapally, Vazhachal, Palaruvi & Tusharagiri. The picturesque places around the falls are popular for trekking and picnic spots, with the greenery and landscape infusing freshness into any tired soul.

Some of them especially the ones at Athirappilly and Vazhachal are scintillatingly beautiful and offer a bewitching sight. Others like the Palaruvi fall is said to contain medicinal properties. There are also others ranging from small gurgling streams to roaring rushing falls that provide a scintillating attraction to visitors.

Farm tourism in Kerala is being developed as a relatively new tourism product. TourPocket does many farm and eco tourism packages. Kerala, being an agricultural dominated state, has tremendous potential for developing Farm Tourism in a big way without much additional investment. Reports state that Kerala has 32.42 lakhs hectares of gross cropped area which is 55.78% of the State's total geographical area. More than 1/3rd of the cropped area contains plantations of Tea, Coffee, Rubber, Pepper, Cardamom and Ginger, and another 1/3rd of this area is covered by Coconut plantations. The State has about 360,000 lakhs hectares of land under paddy cultivation.

There is a possibility of converting potential cropped areas of the state as tourist attractions with minimum intervention to transfer the benefits of tourism directly to the farmers. The various schemes underway are intended to prepare the Farms/Plantations of Kerala to receive tourists by presenting a positive image of the farm and of agriculture as a whole, in view of revitalizing the agriculture sector of Kerala through tourism.

The Government decision to allow 5% of the farm area for tourism purpose has been an encouraging factor for the tourism industry. Numerous projects are being planned by the state to prepare the Farms/Plantations of Kerala to receive tourists by presenting a positive image of the farm and of agriculture as a whole, in view of revitalizing the agriculture sector through tourism and increasing tourist traffic to the state.

Kerala is a haven for the lover of dance, drama and music and festivals. You have scores of art forms, which are quite unique in nature to Kerala, like Kathakali, Ottamthullal, Chakyar Koothu,Krishnanattam,Koodiyattam,Padayani,Kalaripayattu, Pavakathakali, Theyyam, Velakali, Thiruvathirakali, Kolkali and many more. These art forms help one to experience a gamut of varied emotions ranging from passion, love, kindness, compassion to mirth, joy, sorrow, grief,and from anger, wonder, horror to fear, valour, courage

Kerala is home to a stunningly unique variety of art forms which have impacted the social and cultural life of the state, adding to its typical character. Kathakali is the most popular art form in which the entire body is used to portray a story. The Kathakali artistes wear elaborate costumes, ornaments and facial make-up. Mohiniyattam, the dance of the enchantress is one highlighting feminine grace while Kalaripayattu is an amazing martial art which is said to be the originator of karate, judo and kungfu.

Kerala is also distinctly famous for its other art forms like music and poetry as well as craft forms including murals, sculpture and architecture. The rich and vibrant culture of Kerala has been continuing to intrigue people worldwide. The traditional classic and folk songs and dances of the people, their ballads, their rituals and their intellectual pursuits form the real treasures of Kerala contributing to its rich cultural heritage.

Keralas art forms reflect the life and outlook of its people. Whether it is the renowned Kathakali, considered to be the complete art form as its synthesises all that is best in the fields of drama, music and dance, or the folk dances which are reflections of the rhythmic impulses of a sensitive group of people, the treasure house of Kerala's art forms is a feast for travelers and art lovers worldwide.

Spices constitute a variety of pungent aromatic vegetable substances used for flavoring food. In ancient times, traders from all over the world sailed hundreds of miles to import spices from India and especially Kerala. Even today, spices produced in the state hold much popularity throughout the world because of their variety and quality. Moreover, they also have medicinal values that are useful in certain diseases.

Kerala is a land of spices. The climate of the state is suitable for a variety of spices. Spices constitute an important group of the states agricultural commodities which are virtually indispensable in the culinary art. In India, spices are important commercial crops from the point of view of both domestic consumption and export. And thanks to spice tourism, the spice industry is doing excellent in Kerala.

It is said that all the states of India produce at least one spice in their respective region. Kerala, in particular, produces a whole lot of these spices in its verdant patches of hilly areas. Roaming around these spice plantations, you will feel the aroma transport you to another world. Also, ample facilities are available to make you comfortable while you are on a spice tour in Kerala. Some of the plantations have guest houses to provide accommodation while at others you can put up with the owner and his family. Tourpocket does various plantation tours to it's customers.

The people of Kerala are the most simple and down to earth people. They like to live in their own world of simplicity and originality. They are known as "keralites", since they are natives of Kerala. The people of Kerala are very protective about their religion and ancient practices, rituals and traditions. They are proud of their culture and will go to any lengths to preserve them. The lifestyle of Keralites is uncomplicated and they seem happy and content with the simple pleasures of life.

The people of Kerala speak Malayalam. These people emphasize much on education and make it a point to ensure that the younger generation knows the religious teachings of their culture. The Keralites also are very progressive in terms of cleanliness, healthcare and physical quality of life. Most people are conversant in English and make it a point that their kids receive education at least till the primary level.

The people of Kerala dress very ordinarily. They do not believe in showing off. The Malayaly way of life is unassuming. They are content with the quality of life they lead. Regarding food, they are very particular about their health and are conscious about sticking to a balanced diet. They seek mental satisfaction more than materialistic pleasures. The women dress up in the traditional unique attire called Set Mundu, which requires draping skillfully two pieces of long cloth on oneself,the dress being somewhat similar to a sari, worn over a blouse. The men mostly wear white mundu (dhoti) with a shirt or a cotton "lungi" (a sarong like dress) with a towel on top. The men in cities wear pants and shirts, and the women, saris. The younger generation follows fashion and wear anything from jeans to salwar kameez.

Tourpocket have our own Tree House at Munnar at Ela Ecoland. Kerala provides excellent accommodation options to its visitors in the form of beach resorts, hill resorts, backwater resorts and amazing tree houses. Staying on the luxurious and comfortable tree houses of Kerala in the lap of mother nature would truly be a fascinating experience for the travellers. Kerala has a range of tree houses available according to ones choice and budget, for the visitors to enjoy the hidden beauties of nature from tree tops.

The tree houses of Kerala are tastefully designed wooden cottages built on top of the trees at an elevation of 25-95 ft above the ground. Built of eco-friendly raw materials like bamboo poles, coir mats, hay straw, live trees used as pillars, the tree houses in Kerala are the modified versions of "Erumadam", usually built by the forest tribes to protect them from the attacks of the wild animals. To enhance the pleasure of your stay, all the tree houses are provided with modern amenities like cozy beds, telephone, washbasins, and flushable toilets and attached bathrooms with running water/shower facilities. There is also a carpeted balcony where you can sit and enjoy the mesmerizing beauty of nature. The lighting is provided by solar energy or kerosene hurricane lamps. Food is prepared from organically grown fruits and vegetables. An indigenous cane lift is used to reach to the tree houses, which works on a unique counter weight of water system to avoid unnecessary pollution and noise created by conventional means.

Most of the tree houses in Kerala are placed in the lush tropical rain forests surrounded by exotic tea and spice plantations. Perched atop,one gets to enjoy the tranquil beauty and bliss of nature. Guests can also enjoy exciting nature trails deep in the lush forests to discover the richness of the flora and fauna of the region. Staying in the Kerala tree houses is a unique and unforgettable experience.

As you traverse through the Kerala villages,one gets the feeling of travelling backwards in time. In these villages, the indigenous way of life has not changed and everything is still created by hand. No hassle and din of city life.Some of the popular villages are Vavannoor, Udayagiri, Aranmula, Cheppad, Teekoy and many more.

Life in the villages of Kerala moves at an amazingly slow rate and you will be amazed to find that the people in these villages lead simple lives in the pattern that was prevalent in the olden days. In fact nothing much seems to have changed. Here time remains idle and travelers seem to lose their sense of time strolling in these peaceful places. These villages offer you an ideal getaway from your everyday tensions. You can spend a perfectly relaxed holiday at one of these villages in the lap of greenery and an atmosphere of complete tranquility.

The villages in Kerala offer a feast to the eyes of the travelers by way of its panoramic view of the fields,farms,hillsides,rivers and lakes.The locals engage in fishing, farming, pottery, jute making and handicrafts. The visitors are taken on a tour around the village, where you can see many artisans at work. Stone cutting, carpentry, inlay work, textile block printing, potters at their wheels – such rare sights offer joy and relief to the travellers. Some of Keralas most interesting features can be seen during these tours. These tours can also be combined with visits to tribal villages and to major places of tourist interest. Such village tours are not only informative but also enjoyable and relaxing.

Monsoon - the word itself makes one joyous! The intoxicating smell of the dry earth getting drenched, the splashing waters and the tiny paper boats sailing on the clogged water, make monsoons the favourite season in Kerala. After the long summer months of the heat and the dust having ruled the roost, the monsoon comes as a welcome change. The farmers rejoice in the showers that promise to bring them prosperity. The monsoon season makes the peacock fan out its plumes and dance with joy,the flowers of the golden mangoes bloom in plenty, the rivers and lakes to flow freely and the waterfalls to cascade majestically down the mountains! Kerala experiences the magic of the monsoon season in all its splendour,and tourists from across the state and country travel to this part to get a taste of the Kerala monsoon!

Monsoon, the season of rainbows and raindrops, is certainly not to be wasted indoors. This very special season of the year, the monsoon brings everything to you afresh. The washed streets and the fresh leaves seem to smile with you. Monsoon isnt just about getting all packed in rain coats, it calls for fun and excitement. Getting wet, splashing and swimming or wading through knee deep waters, sailing paper boats, etc are some little deeds one may enjoy indulging in. You may try out an Ayurveda vacation in the monsoons too,as this mode of treatment is said to work best during the rains. Ayurveda during monsoon is the best way to rejuvenate your mind and replenish your body. Tourpocket promotes monsoon tourism in a major way. We love the rain

A leisure cruise along the palm-fringed backwaters of Kerala in a luxury houseboats is the most enchanting holiday experience among travelers today. The boat ride takes you past ancient Chinese fishing nets, water lilies, lush paddy fields, coir villages, rustic homes, ancient temples and coconut groves. The "kettuvallams" come with all modern comforts and services that include well furnished rooms and cabin crew at your service.

Houseboats are huge, slow moving, exotic barges designed for sheer leisure trips. Formerly, houseboats were used to ship rice, spices and other goods between Kuttanad and the Cochin port. It was a three-day affair those days. A standard houseboat, which could be about 100 feet long, can hold up to 30 tons, and that is as much as three big lorries can.

A houseboat which is made of hundreds of fine but heavy-duty planks of jack-wood is held together absolutely by coir knots, the specialty being that not a single nail is used. Kettu means knot in the local parlance and Vallam is boat. This framework is then coated with a caustic black resin extracted from boiled cashew kernels. And it lasts for generations.

Kerala has a 700 km long shoreline dotted with some of the finest, internationally known, most charming beaches of the world, coconut groves, natural harbors, lagoons and sheltered coves. The beaches and shorelines of Kerala, washed by the pleasant tropical sun, are peaceful and pristine as ever and contribute to the attraction of domestic and international tourists.

Beaches of Kerala are at their best in Kovalam. Situated on the Malabar Coast, Kovalam Beach is full of swaying coconut trees and has gained fame with the sea surfers all over the world. Kerala is known throughout the world as one of the worlds best beach destinations. The beaches of Kerala are beautiful stretches of clean sand, fringed by swaying palm trees on one side and rippling waves on the other. You can have a memorable beach holiday on the beaches of Kerala.

Visitors to Kerala beaches get to relax on the golden sands of the beaches of Kerala, or stretch out in the shade of the rows of palm trees along the beaches, drinking the refreshing juice of tender coconuts and maybe undergoing an ayurvedic massage. Kovalam,Varkala,Marari,Alappuzha,Kappad and Bekkal are some of the most popular beaches of Kerala.

The mountain ranges in Kerala consisting of the highland area of the Western Ghats, exude an exotic charm. Rising to an average height of 1520 m, the tropical forests of the ghats house rich and unique flora and fauna. The high ranges and hill stations are the favourite spots of nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Expansive plantations of tea, coffee, Coco, rubber and fragrant cardamom and other spices for which Kerala is famous for,are cultivated on the slopes of these hill stations.

Much of Keralas exotic appeal is centered in these highland areas of the Western Ghats. Ideal places for adventure tourism and trekking, the fresh mountain air, the mist clad hills and a panoramic view make them worthy of a visit. Places like Munnar in Kerala produce an exotic species of flowers that bloom once in twelve years.

Hill stations in Kerala offer tourists an opportunity to spend their vacations amidst clean and fresh air of the hills. Some of the more popular hill stations in Kerala are those of Mattupetty, Munnar, Nelliyampathy, Palakkad, Ponmudi, Wayanad, Idduki, Kannur, Kasargod and Kozhikode. Here you can see the milky waterfalls, mighty rocks, lakes, and hill-plantations. The scenic beauty of these Kerala hill stations cannot be defined in words, it is best experienced in person. Tourpocket specialized in many mountain organic tours.

Kerala has a number of pilgrimage places and famous pilgrim centres consisting of ancient temples and shrines, remote places of worship in villages and on hillocks as well as popular and crowded pilgrim centers spread across the length and breadth of Kerala. The sacred temples of Kerala that lie in different parts of this picturesque coconut country are popular among devotees. Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala, is known as the city of temples. There are more than hundreds of sacred temples in Thiruvananthapuram alone.

The land of ayurveda, yoga and meditation, Kerala provides a pure and pristine atmosphere where you can spend your pilgrimage tours in divine prayer, invoking the Almighty by participating in devotional songs, temple festivals and other temple activities. Various fairs and festivals are celebrated all year round in these pilgrimage places, with special sets of religious rituals characteristic to specific festivals. Elephants have a special place in the hearts of the people of Kerala and they play an important role in religious ceremonies at the temples and other sacred places of Kerala.

Kerala has a number of pilgrimage centers of importance to Hindus, Muslims, Jains and Christians alike. Some of the popular destinations comprising temples, churches and mosques are Guruvayoor,Sabarimala,Chottanikkara,Attukal,Bharananganam,Malayattoor,Maramon,Parappanangadi,etc where thousands throng to worship their deities and pay obeisance. Kerala also houses some ancient Jewish synagogues in the island town of Fort Kochi.

Tourpocket does many eco tours with many interesting elements. Eco tourism is a growing area in the tourist friendly state of Kerala. Eco tourism in Kerala has taken off in a big way because Kerala has many destinations known for their natural beauty and exquisite landscape. As Kerala is one of the greenest destinations in India,the state is a perfect hub for promoting eco tourism in a big way.

The landscape is covered with coconut palms in the coastal areas. The paddy fields shimmer with the emerald green of new shoots. The banana plantations are filled with the whisper of waving green banana leaves. The tea plantations are a green blanket that cover the hill ranges as far as the eye can see, and the backwaters are fringed with Pandanus plants that trail the tips of their long leaves in the rippling water, as you float by. The verdant beauty of Kerala is richly highlighted through the different eco tourism destinations. The hill stations,western ghats, silent valley, the wildlife sanctuaries, forests and parks are all splendid eco tourism destinations.

Eco tourism is all about being sensitive to ones surroundings and the need to preserve nature. The greenery that abounds in Kerala is not only relaxing but also refreshing. The green patch that is Kerala offers shelter to some of the best plant, bird, mammal, reptile, and amphibian species.

Tourpocket has various adventure tourism packages in Kerala. Kerala is a hot and happening destination amongst nature lovers and adventure lovers. Kerala is gifted with nature at its beautiful best.As an adventure destination; Kerala offers its visitors umpteen opportunities to unleash their enthusiastic selves.

The high mountains, gushing rivers, dense forests and the vast stretches of ocean water present just the right destinations to let loose the adventurous spirit and indulge in some really exciting activities. From water sports to wildlife tours to trekking trips, adventurous travelers have plenty of choices to rejoice about in Kerala.

The adventure seekers in Kerala can opt for backwater biking, bird tours, camping, forest safaris, canoeing, hiking and biking, trekking, water sports, wildlife tours and much more. Kerala is a paradise for the bird watcher with hundreds of species of birds. Kerala, being the land of rivers, lagoons and lakes in the interiors and the sea on the west, also makes it an ideal destination for those inclined to indulge in water sports for relaxation and adventure. For the wildlife enthusiasts, Kerala offers its diversity in the wildlife parks. The tropical evergreen rain forests in Kerala like the famous Silent Valley National Park offer scope for a variety of exciting adventurous activities for travel enthusiasts.

Kerala with its beautiful landscapes has more than enough reason to celebrate. And the varied culture of the state has given expression to a colorful mosaic of festivals and fairs. The spirit of celebration is very much a part of the ethos of the state of Kerala and for visitors to this state, its fairs and festivals are a must see event to be included in their travel.

The festivities, which go on throughout the year, make Kerala more vibrant than any other tourist destination around the world. Every season ushers in new festivals, each one a true celebration of the bounties of nature. Not only do these celebrations display the harmony among the diverse faiths of the people of the state, but they are also times for fun and excitement. It is the time to clean and decorate houses, to get together with friends and relatives and to exchange gifts. So, there are sweetmeats, new clothes, dances, music, rituals, prayers, pageantry and processions. In fact, Kerala is a land of fairs and festivities.

Classical and folk music/dance performances, religious festivals, cultural pageants, elephant processions, floral decorations, water carnivals, fireworks display, traditional rituals, fireworks display and many more form part of the rich repertoire of the cultural heritage of Kerala. The fairs and festivals of Kerala give the best opportunity to display the traditional performing arts and the delicious cuisine of the land.

Tourpocket have our own Homestays in and around Kerala. The purpose of the concept of homestays in Kerala is to create distinctive, authentic and reliable tourist accommodation to share the traditional way of life and its values. The home-stays contribute to conserve the local cultural and natural heritage.

Kerala has large numbers of well constructed and excellent homestays that include estate bungalows, heritage homes, farm houses, vacant houses owned by NRI's and local residents. They provide cool and comfortable accommodation within a traditional ambience,fresh local food and a feel of the indigenous way of life. The homestays in Kerala are very popular with the tourists, especially foreigners.

Also, there is increasing recognition of the significant shift away from the predominance of the traditional sun, sand and sea holiday towards more experiential vacations.Hence the significance of Kerala homestays.It is said that travel is increasingly about 'experiences, fulfillment and rejuvenation' rather than about 'places and things'.

Kerala homestays offer well furnished rooms with modern facilities, located amist greenery, at very reasonable rates. Besides, the guests get to know more about the culture,cuisine,art forms, ayurveda, yoga amd many more that are typical in Kerala. The homestays of Kerala offer a unique experience to the tourists whereby the hosts and the guests share and enrich each others knowledge of their respective cultures and values.

Kerala is believed to have sprung up from the depth of the Arabian sea when lord Parasurama, the incarnation of Vishnu heaved his axe in remorse to the wanton destruction and cruelty he had wrought upon the kshatriyas in a war. The Brahmin is said to have offered severe penance atop the mountains of the Western Ghats.The culture of the people of Kerala is deeply entwined with the states history and tradition. Kerala has been one of the most cosmopolitan and peace loving states in India. It has served as a melting pot for the cultures from the orient and the occident.

A flourishing market of spices, Kerala was called upon by the ships from all continents to collect the valuables and riches that made them. Ancient roman statesmen are believed to have even chided their citizens for the extravaganza they showed in procuring luxuries from Kerala. Kerala has a distinct, diverse cultural and religious background.

When the Jews were driven out of central Asia during the BCs, they came to Kerala. When St.Thomas came here, he was amazed at the religious liberty given by the state to all its people. He established a church in Kerala in the year 52 AD when even Constantinople did not have a church. When prophet Muhammad founded Islam, Keralites embraced it and the kings here invited Arabic architects to raise mosques out of the sand.

This tolerance of cultural values have persisted through the ages precisely for the reasons of antiquity, unity, continuity and universality of its nature. In its widest sense, it embraces the highest achievements of the human spirit in every sphere of life. Thus, in its totality, it represents the quintessence of the collective achievements of a people in the fields of religion and philosophy, language and literature, art and architecture, education and learning, and economic and social organisation. In fact, all through its history, the genius of Kerala has blossomed forth in all its vigor and vitality and has helped its people to reach the peak of excellence in all their endeavors.

Tourpocket organizes various Health care packages for our guests. Kerala has a long history of organised healthcare. As per documents, by the time the state was formed in 1956, the foundation for a medical care system accessible to all citizens was already laid. The easy accessibility and coverage of medical care facilities has played a dominant role in shaping the health status of Kerala. Some of the hospitals in Kerala are more than 60 years old. Health had been a major area of spending in the budget from early years in Kerala.

The annual growth rate of Government healthcare expenditure has been showing a steady increase. Indias first ever Human Development Report published in 2002, placed the Southern state of Kerala on top of all the other states in India, because of easy accessibility and coverage of medical care facilities.

Kerala is one state where private health sector, both indigenous and Western systems of medicine, have played a crucial role. The Ayurvedic system of treatment practiced in Kerala dates back to centuries. In the field of Allopathic system, missionary hospitals have contributed profusely by even going into the interiors of the state.

High level of education especially among women and greater health consciousness have played a key role in the attainment of good health standards in Kerala. Today, with the mushrooming of private hospitals that offer quality services matching international standards and with the tie up of the healthcare industry with the tourism sector, healthcare in Kerala is growing by leaps and bounds.

Kerala celebrates a host of major festivals that include religious,temple,social and community rituals and traditions.The flower carpet called Onapookkalam,worship of Thrikkakkara appan,the rhythmic shouts of joy in chorus called"Aarpu vili",the "Pulikkali" and the mirthful songs associated with it,etc are some of the age old traditions and rituals associated with the grand ten day (harvest) Onam festival in Kerala.The "Vishukkai neettam" ritual during Vishu(Kerala New Year) festival wherein the elders offer gifts and cash to the younger members of the family is yet another important tradition practised in Kerala.

Among the Namboothiri or brahmin community of Kerala, the Somayaga traditions(sacred rituals performed by scholars) have been so well preserved and are practised in their pristine purity regularly during occasions. This yaga tradition which is a grand affair, has survived for nearly 3,000 years.

The music and dance performers of Kerala follow their own indigenous traditions and rituals, each different according to the cultural context within which the activity takes place.

Similarly, Kerala Syrian Christians who are often referred to by the traditional name Nasranis, have preserved some of the original rituals of the early Jewish Syrian Christians. One can easily find many Jewish Syrian rituals and traditions among the Nasranis of Kerala today.

The Muslims of Kerala too have their own unique customs and traditions which they diligently follow during their religious and wedding festivals.The famous oppana,mapillappattu,etc are some of them.

Shopping in Kerala makes for a delightful experience. The land is traditionally rich in handicrafts. The skilled hands of the artisans of Kerala have crafted out a wide variety of objects dart that find a buy among the tourists, especially foreigners.

Owing to the abundance of forests and coconut groves in Kerala, wood, jute, coir and coconut shells traditionally remain the base of such handicrafts. A whole range of souvenirs, curios and trinkets are made from these. Artifacts made of teak, deep-wine rosewood and fragrant sandalwood may arrest your eyes while shopping in Kerala. Buffalo horn is also popular with Kerala artisans as a raw material for the handicrafts.

The sea-fringed state of Kerala is also the land of spices. Since long past, Kerala has carved a niche of its own in the global spice market for its rich flavored spices. Spices are used in medicines, preservatives, perfumes and above all in cooking. They serve as exquisite shopping products that enjoy international value.

Kathakali-masks made of wood or papier-mâché are also favourite buys with the tourists.There are a large number of private shops and government emporia, which are scattered all across the state. Nevertheless Kochi and Trivandrum are the best places for shopping in Kerala. You can also check out the street side vendors or the artisans directly.

Some of the popular tourist shopping products in Kerala are coconut shell craft,coir items,woodcarvings,metalware,tea, coffee and spices like black pepper, cardamom, vanilla, cinnamon, ginger, etc, metal inlaid wood craft,horn carvings,bamboo/jute mat paintings and kathakali masks.

Dreamy cruises in the serene backwaters, sparkling palm-fringed beaches, green-carpeted rolling hills, exotic wild life sanctuaries, soft gleaming white sands, unending stretch of turquoise blue water, tall palm groves, lush green woods, sprawling plantations, panoramic view of sleepy little villages, therapeutic ayurvedic massages, age-old martial art forms, amazing spectacles of rural life,a wealth of ancient culture and heritage, the seat of religious harmony, and much more to offer, the land of Kerala is sheer magic. No wonder, God's own country, Kerala is one of the most sought after tourist destinations in the world today.

Besides,the state boasts of quite a few cities which have a rich history interwoven with myths. The cities of Kerala are home to many tourist attractions like monuments, parks, resorts, zoos, spas and other tourist centres and sight seeing places of interest. Kochi is a naval base, Trivandrum is the state capital, Thrissur is the cultural capital while Kottayam with numerous churches and colonial style houses can be dubbed as the Rome of the East, and Wayanad is a tribal region.

Kerala has always shown a keen interest in the field of sports and games and the state .The Kerala Sports Council at Trivandrum holds a number of sports events including aquatic sports. In all important towns and cities, facilities for indoor and outdoor games for the sportsman are available. Cricket, Hockey, Football, Baseball and Tennis are the popular games played in the state. Besides, the town of Alleppey is famous for its backwater cruises and boat races. The fantastic boat races are pure adrenalin, with 40 metre-long snake-shaped boats, and hundreds of oarsmen singing loudly as they tug at the oars, competing for the most coveted prize in these parts.

Another form of entertainment which has been recognized in the state is Kalarippayattu. This gives considerable importance to both brain and brawn. Development of physique and great concentration are essential to excel in this sport which has become part of Keralas history through the exploits of Thacholi Udayanan and Unniyarcha, the prominent characters of Vadakkan Pattu. In the olden days, the Nair Community alone had the right to engage in Kalarippayattu. With the assumption of British rule, the feuds between local kings and chieftains got reduced. Then the Kalari Asans and performers turned to occupations such as agriculture and administrative jobs. The Kalaris had to be closed down. Yet even now in certain centres, Kalarippayattu is performed with great fervor and enthusiasm. This martial art is not fully dead even though its importance has waned considerably.