Kerala Tradition & Fascinating Destinations 2014 Kerala Tradition & Destinations 2014 | Page 138

Chowara
Offers an amazing view of the beach

Chowara: (8 km south of Kovalam) This fishing hamlet near to Kovalam has
many picturesque spots. The Chowara Ayyappa Temple atop a hill overlooks the beach and offers an amazing view of the beach. Chowara is also
home to the ancient Amalothbhava Matha Church.
Agasthyakoodam: This is the second highest peak in Kerala which has a
height of 1900 metres above sea level. Blessed with a lively wildlife, the
forest of Agasthyakoodam is an abode of rare medicinal herbs and plants.
There are brilliantly hued orchids also here. A paradise for the bird
watchers, this legendary mountain is accessible by foot from Kottoor, near
Neyyar Dam, as also from Bonacaud. The trekking gives an unforgettable
expereince during December to April and a special permission should be
received to make trekking from Wildlife Warden, Forest Department, PTP
Nagar, Thiruvananapuram.
Aruvikkara Dam and Devi Temple: (16 km from Thiruvananthapuram) This
picturesque picnic spot associated with the blessed name of Sree
Narayana Guru, the greatest social reformer our time has witnessed, is on
the bank of Karamana river. Near the famous Durga Temple here, there is
a stream full of fish that fearlessly come close to the shore to be fed by
the vistors.
Neyyar Dam: (32 km from Thiruvananthapuram) A popular picnic spot,
Neyyar Dam has a watch tower, crocodile farm, lion safari park and deer
park. Boating facilities are available at the reservoir.
Koyikkal Palace: (18 km from Thiruvananthapuram) Located on the way to
Ponmudi Hill station and the Courtallam waterfalls this famous Palace is
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THIRUVANANTHAPURAM|TRADITION AND DESTINATIONS