Kerala Tradition & Fascinating Destinations 2014 Kerala Tradition & Destinations 2014 | Page 72

Alappuzha: Intertwined by a vast network of lakes, lagoons and fresh water
rivers Alappuzha, known as Venice of the East, is a place of immense natural
beauty. This backwater abode with lush paddy fields and glorious
greeneries is also home for diverse animals and birds. A singularity of
this district is the region called Kuttanad, a land of lush paddy fields
referred to as the rice bowl of Kerala and one of the few places in the world
where farming is done below the sea level. A house boat cruise through
the backwaters of Kuttanad is a heavenly experience. The Kuttanad area
is also rich in avian population, and one can easily find flocks of parrots
hovering in the paddy fields, especially those fields with rice stalks in
bloom.
Kappil: (53 km from Thiruvananthapuram and 8 km north of Varkala) This
picturesque spot is ideal to experience backwaters in the background of
the Sea. The conflux of the Sea and River proffer an exotic experience.
Kochi: Kochi, the Queen of the Arabian Sea is famous for a clump of islands
like Bolgatty, Vypeen, Gundu, Vallarpadam etc. Cruises through the winding
waterways of Kochi to these islands offer a heavenly experience. A few
interesting sites in Kochi are the Chinese fishing nets along the Vasco Da
Gama Square, Santa Cruz Basilica, St.Francis Church, VOC Gate, Bastion
Bungalow etc. Apart from the many historic and cultural landmarks, Kochi
also has an array of restaurants serving fresh s eafood that are popular
among tourists.
Kollam: (71 km from Thiruvananthapuram) The enchanting Ashtamudi Lake,
making it the gateway to the gorgeous backwaters of Kerala, covers over
30% of this lovely district. From the Ashtamudi Lake, a 130 km long system
of interconnected canals and lakes curves all the way to the north. The
eight-hour boat trip from Kollam to Alappuzha is the longest and the most
enchanting experience through the backwaters of Kerala.
Kozhikode: Unexplored, unspoiled, the backwaters of Kozhikode hold great
promises of enchanting holiday options. Elathur, the Canoli Canal and
the Kallai River are favourite destinations for boating. Kadalundi, with its
beautiful bird sanctuary is a charming site. Kora-puzha, the venue of the
Korapuzha Jalolsavam is fast becoming a popular water sports destination.
Kumarakom: (16 km from Kottayam) This tiny unbelievably beautiful paradise
of mangrove forests, emerald green paddy fields and coconut groves
intertwined with picturesque water ways and canals is renowned
backwater destination. Lying calmly on the lap of Vembanad Lake one
will come across in this small water world a lot of traditional country
crafts, houseboats and canoes. The bird sanctuary here, which is spread
across 14 acres is a favourite haunt of migratory birds and an ornithologist's
paradise. Egrets, darters, herons, teals, waterfowls, cuckoo, wild duck
and migratory birds like the Siberian Stork visit here in flocks and are a
fascinate the visitors.
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BACKWATERS|TRADITION AND DESTINATIONS