Backwaters of Kerala - Gods own Country

Hi friends, let me take you to a world of serenity and wonderment --the backwaters in Kerala. The backwaters of Kerala have a unique ecosystem - freshwater from the rivers meets the seawater from the Arabian Sea in the backwaters in Kerala. Many unique species of aquatic life including crabs, frogs and mudskippers, water birds such as terns, kingfishers, darters and cormorants, and animals such as otters and turtles live in and alongside the backwaters in Kerala. Palm trees, pandanus shrubs, various leafy plants and bushes grow alongside the Kerala backwaters.
What’s This? The backwaters of Kerala are a series of interconnected waterways, lakes, inlets and riverine estuaries that form an intermeshed network along the coast of Kerala, India. The local people here, travel on these waters & carry out their traditional occupations. Backwater cruises in Kerala are carried out on large converted traditional boats. These boats called "Kettuvalloms are Converted to accommodate tourists, the houseboats have a sleeping area, with toilets, a dining area and a sit out on the deck.

You can rest at ease on a houseboat at night and observe the beautiful countryside while sitting on the deck during the day. Food is cooked on board. On Backwater cruises in Kerala with Kerala Backwater, you can have a relaxing time seeing the birds and aquatic life along the banks of the Kerala backwaters.
Located Where? The Kerala backwaters lie parallel to the Arabian sea coast (known as the Malabar Coast) of Kerala state in southern India. Kerala has over 900 Km of interconnected waterways, rivers, lakes and inlets that make up the Kerala backwaters. In the midst of this beautiful landscape there are a number of towns and cities, which are the starting and end points of Kerala backwater cruises.
Cruising along the backwaters of Kerala is an ideal way to discover the real Kerala.t
Some of the scenic Kerala backwater destinations that you can see on Kerala tours with Kerala Backwater are:
Cochin: This historic port city called "the Queen of the Arabian Sea," is the starting point for many Kerala backwater cruises & is known for its natural harbour.
Alappuzha: This Kerala Backwater destination is also known as the "Venice of the East," because of its surrounding waterways and canals. Alappuzha, previously known as Alleppey, is famous for the annual Nehru Trophy Snake Boat race held here every year, around the festival of Onam.
Kasargod: Kasargod a town in North Kerala is known for the Valiyaparamba stretch of backwaters, an incredibly beautiful and green corridor along the coast of Kerala.
Kollam: Situated just over 70 Km from the capital of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam is an ancient seaport on the banks of the Ashtamudi Lake. The cruise from Kollam to Alappuzha, which lasts eight hours, is a magical ride along the scenic backwaters of Kerala.
Kottayam: Kottayam in Kerala is known for its fascinating backwaters on the seacoast and beautiful hills further inland.
Kozhikode : Kozhikode in North Kerala, is an important port, previously known as Calicut. Calico - a variety of checked cotton cloth derives its name from Calicut.
Kumarakom: Situated in the beautiful Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom is a paradise on Earth. The bird sanctuary, the scenic beauty make Kumarakom one of the most sought after Kerala Backwater destinations.
Kuttanad: Known as the "Ricebowl of Kerala" Kuttanad brings to mind images of verdant paddy fields.
Thiruvallam: is a beautiful backwater destination at the conjunction of two rivers - the Killi and the Karamana and near the scenic Veli Lagoon.
Thiruvananthapuram: The capital of Kerala, previously known as Trivandrum, is a starting point for the tour of Kerala Backwater Destinations. Thiruvananthapuram is also known for its museums, Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple and proximity to the beautiful Kovalam Beach.

One of the major attractions of Kerala is its Beaches. Some of the popular beaches in Kerala are- Kappad, Kovalam, Varkala, Marari, Alappuzha, Beypore, Dharmadam, Ezhimala, Thangassery, Kochi,Meenkunnu,Mappila, Muzhappilangad, Pathiramanal, Payyambalam, Shanghumugham,Tanur, Vizhinjam.rala is an ideal way to discover the real Kerala
How do we Reach Kerala? Kerala is a major tourist destination in India and is well connected with other parts of the country. There are three airports in the state –
Thiruvananthapuram International Airport- Domestic flights (direct): From/To: Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore,Chennai International flights (direct): From/To: Colombo, Maldives, Dubai, Sharjah, Bahrain, Doha, Ras-al-Khaimah, Kuwait, Riyadh, Fujairah and Singapore.
Thiruvananthapuram is also an international airport, connecting the state to many places in India and the world.

Kochi International Airport, Nedumbassery- Domestic flights (direct): From/To: Mumbai,Chennai,Goa,Agathi,BangaloreInternational flights (direct): From/To: Sharjah, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Riyadh, Muscat

Karipur Airport, Kozhikode- Domestic flights (direct): From/To: Mumbai, Chennai, Goa,Agathi,Bangalore
International flights (direct): From/To: Sharjah, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Riyadh, Muscat
RAIL:
There are around 200 railway stations in Kerala connecting most of the places in the state to places in the other parts of India and inside the state. Long-distance express trains connect important places in the state to places outside Kerala like Mumbai, New Delhi, Chennai and Kolkata.
Road: An extensive network of metalled roads connects most of the places in the state. National highways 47, 17, and 49 connect Kerala with other parts of India.

Best time to visit: The ideal time to visit Kerala, then the best time to visit Kerala would be in the months of October to March.
General Info/ Tips:
Travel-Wear Cotton outfits, hats, sunglasses, sunscreen lotion etc
Currency Indian Rupee (INR)
Ayurvedic-Treatment If you wish to undergo Ayurvedic treatment, it is very important to ensure that you go to an authorised centre.
Wildlife-Sanctuaries To visit a wildlife sanctuary, prior permission has to be taken from the concerned authority of the sanctuary.

KERALA AYURVEDA
Kerala's 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 Ayurveda's curative and restorative programs. Today Kerala is the only state in India , which practices this system of medicine with absolute dedication.
Ayurveda, the 5000-year-old natural herbal health care system has been recognized the world over as the most perfected body-mind health care system. Ayurveda, a holistic system of medicine that is rejuvenative and therapeutic, is widely practiced in India. Kerala is well known as the heart land of Ayurveda.
Ayurveda is more effective in monsoon season as the atmosphere remains dust free and cool, opening the body pores to maximum, making it more receptive to herbal oils and therapy.

A Luxury Trip to Rajasthan on Wheels

Today I will take you across a LUXURY TRAIN in India called PALACE ON WHEELS. Travelling on the famed Palace on Wheels is one of the most memorable ways to explore India's stately splendour, a journey that is much more than a luxury train ride. It covers the pink state capital Jaipur, the golden citadel Jaisalmer, the blue city of Jodhpur, the National Park Ramthambhor in Sawai Madhopur, the symbol of chivalry Chittaurgarh, romantic city of Lakes Udaipur, the bird sanctuary Bharatpur and the mughal capital Agra before returning to Delhi.

What’s This?
Palace on Wheels is a week-long luxury cruise on train through fascinating Rajasthan. You'll be delighted you chose to see Rajasthan by the Palace on Wheels. On board, when you see the luxurious cabins, a well stocked bar, two dining cars, personalised service you feel like travelling in heaven. Each coach is decorated in ethnic Rajasthani décor. The 14 coaches are named after former Rajput states matching the aesthetics and interiors of the royal past. You will feel at home with facilities like hot & cold water shower, attached toilets, music, intercom, personal attendants to give you a helping hand, a lounge to ensure availability of hot and cold beverage, and refreshments and a place to relax and get together.
The 14 coaches on Palace on Wheels are ALWAR, BHARATPUR. BHARATPUR, BUNDI, DHOLPUR, DUNGARGARH, JAISALMER, JAIPUR, JHALAWAR, JODHPUR, KISHANGARH, KOTA, SIROHI, UDAIPUR.


Located Where?
The Palace on Wheels train departs from New Delhi railway station.

How do we Reach There?
The destinations covered by the Palace on Wheels are Delhi, Jaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Sawai Madhopur, Chittorgarh, Udaipur, Bharatpur and finally Agra before returning back to Delhi.

Best time to visit :
The luxurious Palace on Wheels starts its royal journey on every Wednesday from Delhi Cantonment Railway Station during the cooler months of September to April. Due to hot weather and the time required for renovation and maintenance of its coaches, the train doesn't operate from May to August.


Major Attractions :
Jaipur:

The first stop of Palace on Wheels is Jaipur, one of the most well planned cities of the world of its time. This capital city of Rajasthan, popularly known as the Pink City, was founded by Maharaja Swai Jai Singh II, in1727 A.D. You can see the Hawa Mahal or the Palace of Winds, followed by a visit to Amber Fort, eight kms. away, where rides on caparisoned elephants add to the ambiance. You can Shop for Jaipur’s famous jewellery, handicrafts, carpets blue pottery and textiles. You can also see Jantar Mantar, the largest observatory built by the Sawai Jai Singh II.

Jaisalmer:
In the heart of the Thar Desert lies Jaisalmer, founded by Rawal Jaisal, in 1156A.D. You can see the Nathmalji-ki-haveli, Patwon-ki-haveli and Salim Singh-ki-haveli --fine examples of the stone carver’s skill.
You can shop at Rajasthali-the only Rajasthan Govt. emporium, for fine pattu shawls, mirror work & embroidered articles, wooden boxes, trinkets, silver jewellery and curios. You can also enjoy an exciting camel ride on the sand dunes of Sam, before sipping a refreshing cup of tea and the cultural programmes at a hotel in Jaisalmer before the train leaves for Jodhpur at night.

Jodhpur:
Jodhpur, is a city ringed by a high stone wall with seven gates and several bastions. This second largest city of Rajasthan, founded by Rao Jodha in 1459 A.D. is known for its rock-solid Mehrangarh Fort. The grand palaces within- Moti Mahal, Sheesh Mahal, Phool Mahal, Sileh Khana and Daulat Khana are impressive examples of architectural excellence. Near the fort complex lies Jaswant Thada, and a group of royal cenotaphs made of white marble. While in Jodhpur you can shop for the exquisite handcrafted articles including the famous breeches, embroidered shoes, metal curios, silverware, paintings and tie and dye fabrics.

Sawai Madhopur:
Sawai Madhopur, is a city named after its founder Maharaja Sawai Madho Singh I. Here is the Ranthambhor National Park, wherein are located the ruins of a 10th century fort. This wildlife sanctuary is considered to be the country’s best for observing and photographing the activities of the tiger. The park, covering an area of 392 sq.kms. is home to more than 300 species of birds, tiger, hyena, ratel, jackal and fox are among those constituting the carnivorous population here. Sawai Madhopur is known for its exclusive toys, ethnic ornaments and costumes.
Chittaurgarh:
Chittaurgarh is a city with Images of love and valour; scars of battles lost and won….thrice-beseiged, Chittaurgarh Fort is all this and more.

Udaipur :
Udaipur was founded by Maharana Udai Singh of Mewar, after the Sisodia dynasty was driven away by the Mughals, in 1559A.D. The two most beautiful sites of Udaipur are the dream-like marble Palaces-the Jag Niwas (Lake Palace) and the Jag Mandir, which appear to rise from the blue waters of Lake Pichhola. A visit to City Palace & Crystal gallery is exhilarating.

Bharatpur :
Bharatpur, is the capital of Maharaja Suraj Mal. Here,you can visit to the world famous bird sanctuary, Keoladeo Ghana National Park, the nesting place of thousands of Egrets, Siberian Cranes, migratory Water Fowl and other species of birds.

Agra:
In Agra there is Fatehpur Sikri-the red sandstone Mughal palatial complex. Within the enclosure is a mosque built by the Mughal Emperor Akbar and dedicated to the Sheikh Salim Chisti, a muslim Sufi Saint who blessed him with a son. After lunch move on from the Red Fort and arrive at the Taj Mahal, one of the seven wonders of the world. A pristine monument of undying love. It was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved queen Mumtaz Mahal.Agra is known for its splendid marble inlay work like the Pietra Dura work on the Taj, leather goods and jewellery

Precautions : Always book into approved hotels or RTDC run hotels.

General Info / Tips:
There is special assistance available in the form of wheel chairs, crèches and a special attendant for manual assistance.
Your luggage is picked up and taken to your respective saloons without your worrying about it.
An exotic array of dishes to choose from the Continental, Indian and Rajasthani cuisines is available on the Palace on Wheels.
Mineral water is made available to you all through the journey.
Adequate safety arrangements are made for you as well as your personal belongings in the train itself.
All essential toiletries like soaps, shampoos, moisturizers etc. are provided in the train.
A complimentary bottle of wine/beer can be availed courtesy Palace on Wheels to all the royal guests.
Each guest is provided with an arrival kit consisting of stationery items, brochures, cards, daily newspapers & magazines.
A mailbox is provided on board, which discharges your mail with utmost care and efficiency.
A health club comprising of the latest equipment to keep you fit is available.

Tariff
(per Person, per night)
September 2008 - April 2009

Travel from Oct 2008 to March 2009

Single occupancy
US$560 ( INR 23,240/-)
Double occupancy
US$419 ( INR 17,390/-)
Triple occupancy
US$340 ( INR 14,110/-)

Travel in September 2008 & April 2009
Single occupancy
US$415 ( INR 17,225/-)
Double occupancy
US$322 ( INR 13,365/-)
Triple occupancy
US$260 ( INR 10,790/-)
(Half price for children between 5 and 12 Years of age).
Note: Service Tax will be charged extra as applicable.

There will be a 10% surcharge levied on the tariff for the trips falling during Christmas (25th December) and New Year (1st January)

Tariff is inclusive of cost of travel and accommodation, catering (morning tea, breakfast, lunch, evening tea and dinner), conducted sightseeing tours in deluxe coaches, entrance fee for monuments and palaces and cultural entertainment. Tariff does not include liquor, laundry, video cameras, and other items of personal nature.

Bon Voyage