Welcome to Enchanting Journeys

Asia sticks to you. From the nomadic steppes of Kazakhstan to the frenetic streets of Hanoi, Asia is a continent so full of intrigue, adventure, solace & spirituality that it has fixated & confounded travellers for centuries. Wrapped in rainforests, edged by golden sands, crowned by volcanoes, studded with ruins of lost civilisations: this is Asia as you have always imagined it. The joss sticks lit for the household shrines in Thailand impart a sweet perfume to the thick air & the heavenly aroma of Indian spices follows you for days.

Bamboozling. India is an incredibly varied & exciting vacation destination, pulsating with a spectacular mix of people, traditions & landscapes. There is simply no other word that convincingly captures the enigma that is India. With its in-your-face diversity, from snow-dusted Mountains to sun-washed Beaches & an intoxicatingly rich history, which has spawned a number of exquisite Palaces, tranquil Temples, feisty Festivals, lantern-lit Villages to Software supremo cities, it is hardly surprising that this country has been dubbed the world’s most multi-dimensional. Love it or loathe it & most visitors see-saw between the 2, India promises to jostle your entire being & no matter where you go or what you do, it is a place you will never forget.

Arrive in Cochin popularly known as the “Queen of Arabian Sea”, located in the State of Kerala, on the south west coast & has been drawing Traders, Explorers & Travellers to its shores for over 600 years.

Namaste & welcome to incredible Republic of India - one of the friendliest countries on earth, combining glorious architecture with a warm-hearted welcome. With its sumptuous mix of traditions, spiritual Beliefs, Festivals, Architecture & Landscapes, your memories of India will blaze bright long after you have left its shores. 

After you exit in the Arrival Hall at Terminal?  - Cochin International Airport, subsequent to Immigration & Customs, you will be welcomed by The Journeys representative who will ensure your comfort & transfer the Group to the hotel. Assistance will be provided during Check-in & there will be a short briefing to discuss the program for the next few days.

 If, for any reason you are unable to make contact with our representative within 30 minutes of waiting, please call the local Emergency telephone # listed on your Contact List. Please follow the advice given by our 24 / 7 Duty Officer.  Please do not exit the Airport & make your own way to the hotel unless advised.

Reach the Hotel & Check-in but before that you will be accorded a traditional ‘Indian’ welcome.

*Check-in time is 02.00 pm. For earlier arrivals in the morning, we will request the hotel for a complimentary early Check-in but cannot be guaranteed unless reserved & paid for ‘immediate occupancy’.

In India, we say “Atthi Devo Bhava” which means “the guest is equivalent to God'. You will be greeted by flower garlanding & a tilak on your forehead.

Flower garlanding is generally offered as a mark of respect & honour to welcome visitors & also or in honour to the Gods &Goddesses. Tilak is a ritual mark put on the forehead as a form of blessing, greeting or auspiciousness. The Tilak is usually made out of a red vermilion paste (kumkum) which is a mixture of turmeric, alum, iodine, camphor, etc.

Balance of the day is at leisure for independent exploration or for Optional activities (we will be happy to offer suggestions & / or make arrangements).

Ancient Civilisations| vast Landscapes |expectedly Unexpected |Soul Warming

For many travellers, Kerala is South India's most serenely beautiful state. A slender coastal strip is shaped by its layered landscape: almost 600 km of glorious Arabian Sea coast & beaches; a languid network of glistening Backwaters & the Spice & Tea covered hills of the Western Ghats. Just setting foot on this swath of soul quenching, palm shaded green will slow your sub-continental stride to a blissed out amble. Kerala is a world away from the frenzy of elsewhere, as if India had passed through the Looking Glass & become an altogether more laid-back place.

Besides its famous backwaters, elegant Houseboats, Ayurvedic Treatments & delicately spiced, taste-bud-tingling Cuisine, Kerala is home to wild Elephants, exotic Birds & the odd Tiger, while vibrant traditions such as Kathakali plays, Temple festivals & Snake-boat Races frequently bring even the smallest villages to life.

Known for its beauty, all around the world, the popular tourist destination of Kerala is nicknamed as ‘Gods Own Country’ which is truly imbibed by a beauty where nature resides at its best. Kerala is blessed with the most alluring destinations where the sun romances with shimmering sea, where the cool breeze flirts with the lush green trees, where the over flowing streams produce a breath-taking sound & much more.

Imagine sailing through the palm-fringed water canals & lagoons draped in lush green draperies of nature. Listen to the gentle lapping of water as the houseboat sails into the sun & sky fills with stars burning bright. Add to it the authentic glimpse of local culture, an array of tourist places to visit, gracious locals and tantalizing cuisine.

Cochin, now known as Kochi, represents different things to different people. To many, it is an emerging cosmopolitan city with bustling life in the streets, the Cinema Halls, the ShoppingMalls & the Skyscrapers; the commercial Capital of the State, with a style statement different from the rest of the province - whether in clothes or lifestyle.

To some others, Kochi is a place with deep roots in history & its streets exude an old-world charm; a place with beautiful monuments & a variety of linguistic & ethnic communities including Jews, Konkinis, Gujaratis & so on. In short, Kochi offers a cocktail of modernity, old-world charm & a global outlook that, at the same time, facilitates continuity & change.

Cochin’s history is a bright tapestry - many coloured threads woven through centuries together present the fabric of the present.  Being ruled by the Portuguese, Dutch & British resulted in a unique mix & match of traditional as well Western architecture & lifestyle. An unlikely blend of medieval Portugal, Holland & an English village grafted onto the tropical Malabar Coast. But despite being ruled by so many different domains, it still maintains its cultural identity & is fiercely proud of it.

It was highly influenced by historical trading partners, Portuguese, Dutch, Arab, Chinese, Japanese & was controlled by many Empires over time. For centuries, Kochi, known as the Queen of the Arabian Sea had been a busy Port & Shipping centre, not only for Kerala, but also of the Indian Peninsula Since the 14^th century, Kochi, has had ships from Asian & European countries.

Traders from across the globe were welcomed with open arms & minds & this greatly helped in its growth into a cosmopolitan city. Traditionally, a potpourri of various Indian & international communities, Kochi’s growth owes a lot to its strategic position on the northern end of the Peninsula flanked by the Western Ghats on the east & the Arabian Sea on the west.

As for its geography, it is an indiscriminate mix of hilly areas, Estuaries, Backwaters, small Islands, wonderfully atmospheric historical coastal cities like Fort Kochi & Mattancherry - thick with the smell of the past. The city of Ernakulam, serves as a hectic transport & cosmopolitan hub.

Featuring gorgeous beaches, a far-reaching shoreline & breathtaking backwaters, Kochi is a paradise for nature lovers. Other adjacent Islands, including Willingdon & Vypeen are linked by a network of Ferries & Bridges. Informally, Cochin is also referred to as the Gateway to Kerala. Its proximity to the Equator, the Sea & the Mountains provide a rich experience of a moderate equatorial climate.

With its expansive Tea Plantations, numerous Spice Estates, lush greenery, striking Architecture & ancient Temples, Kochi is arguably the ideal starting point for exploring the unfathomable diversity & beauty of Kerala, rated in the top 3 tourist destinations by the World Travel & Tourism Council and featured in National Geographic Traveler's '50 greatest places of a lifetime'.

Flaunting a fascinating history that dates back to hundreds of years & age-old traditions intricately woven together with modernization & urban lifestyle, it still bears the influence of Greek, Portuguese, Arabic, Roman & Jewish settlements.

Nowhere else in India could you find such an intriguing mix: giant cantilevered Chinese Fishing Nets, typical of Kochi, have been in use for centuries. A 450 year old Synagogue, ancient Mosques, Portuguese & Dutch era tiled colonial Bungalows & the crumbling remains of the British Raj. Kochi is the seat of the Latin Church of Kerala & has many other Catholic Churches & followers.

A delightful place to explore, laze in arty Cafes & relax at some of India’s finest Homestays & heritage hotels. It is also an important centre for Kerala Arts (traditional & contemporary) & a standout place to see Kathakali & Kalarippayat.

Morning, Check-out, meet the Tour-guide at 08.00 am in the Lobby & embark on a 4 hour sightseeing tour of the enchanting city.

Proceed to Harbour to see the most iconic tourist attraction here.

The famous picturesque Fishing Nets near the Harbour's entrance are unique to Kochi & are long believed to have been introduced by the Chinese explorer Zheng He in the 14^th century or possibly through a legacy of Traders from the Court of Kublai Khan in 1400 AD. Or, these Nets may actually trace their origin to Portuguese Settlers from Macau. The Chinese Fishing Nets have attracted visitors to the Fort Kochi area for centuries.

The unofficial emblems of Kerala’s Backwaters that are, perhaps the most photographed, are the half-dozen giant cantilevered symbolic Fishing Nets on Cochin's northeastern shore, near the Harbour's entrance are known locally as Cheena vala, (Cheena means Chinese).

These elaborate tools are an iconic part of the Kochi coastal life & are fixed land installations for Fishing, commonly known as Lift Nets, common in China & Indonesia

These iconic spiderlike Nets combine elegance & ingenuity with their massive frames balanced by counterweights.  These Nets are 10 metre tall & 20 metres wide contraptions fixed on land, resting on Teak or Bamboo Poles & requiring 5 - 6 people to operate their Counterweights at high tide. Their unique design enables only 1 person pulling at the main Plank to be able to drag it into the sea before the Tide. Some Poles have lights affixed on them that supposedly attracts the fish.

Modern Fishing techniques are making these labour-intensive methods less & less profitable, with Nets like these slowly disappearing from Kerala's coastline. Smaller Nets are dotted around the shores of Vembanad & Ashtamudi Lakes & some of the best to be viewed are just east of Cherai Beach on Vypeen Island.

Watching these majestic Nets being suspended in mid-air, row upon row, is a truly spellbinding experience.

Most Tour-guides swear that the Vasco da Gama Square is the best spot to get the perfect view of these massive structures. Dawn & dusk is when one can see the Cheenvala in action.

Next, walk to the private Kerala Folklore Museum - a cultural hub to promote & preserve the culture & heritage of South India. It was started & still being managed by a local philanthropist couple Mrs. & Mr. George Thaliath, with the aim to preserve the culture, heritage & folk-art education for future generations.

This wooden Temple of Art was developed with the help of 62 skilled traditional Carpenters working for over 7 years, culling the wood & artifacts from 25 ancient heritage structures & compiling into a single building. The Displays show works from traditional Architecture to ancient Sculptures, Wood work, Terracotta, Indian bronzes, Stone work, Paintings, ancient Jewelry, Utensils, agricultural equipment, Coins & all other ethnic artifacts connected with the rural & tribal life of South India. The Museum aims to provide art education to the young generation as well as providing opportunity to the tourists from around the globe to experience the unseen Kerala under one roof. It is a ‘must see’ place for tourist as well as students & researchers of Anthropology.

The sightseeing ends but we are not finished yet with Cochin.

In time, depart for on a scenic drive to Thrissur.  

Enroute, stop at the scenic Athirappilly Falls, the largest Waterfall in Kerala with a height of 82 feet & is nicknamed "Niagara of South India", 330 feet wide, with 4 Drops through several Streams.

When you land at Athirapally, you are greeted with the sight of charming green Sholayar Peaks peering over the rushing gush of the Falls. Beyond the official Entrance, there are Walkways flanked by native Teak trees.

Located at the entrance to the Sholayar Forest Ranges, it is a marvelous cascade of frothy waters that originates from the Anamudi mountains at the upper reaches of the Western Ghats, as part of the Chalakudy River. Flowing through the magnificently intertwined lush green verdant Vazhachal Forest toward the Arabian Sea, it creates a spectacular vista of scintillating water, emerald jungles & azure sky.

Also called as Bahubali Waterfall, this stunning natural wonder maintains its beauty year-round. In winter, the Waterfall may have less water flow compared to the Monsoon season with the swollen Chalakkudy River, but the surrounding lush greenery & mild weather make it an ideal time for a peaceful & picturesque visit.

The Waterfalls became famous for not just the view but due to the presence of many endangered & epidemic species of Flora & Fauna found in the surrounding dense Forest. Researchers have found 4 endangered species of the Hornbill here, the only place they thrive in the entire Western Ghats. Ornithologists attach great significance to this location as they can come across many rare & vibrant species in these parts. The absence of human Settlements in most of the area allows free spill-over of wild animals like Elephants through the road.

For those seeking a more immersive experience, a 15 minute Trek, walking down the stone slabs that lead to the base of the Waterfalls, is a serene experience. The sight of the cascading water crashing onto the ground, leaves one with a sense of wonder at the sheer power & magnificence of nature amidst surrounding greenery. Undeniably, the charm lies in its virgin natural beauty. The sheer volume of the water that flows down the mountains is overwhelming & tranquillizing at the same time. The cool breeze coupled with the gentle chirping of Birds from the forest nearby is a welcome change from the din of city life.

Along with the Tourists, the scenic beauty of the Falls also attracts a lot of Filmmakers & with the backdrop of a rustling jungle foliage, the place has been the featured location for quite a few Music Videos & Indian Movies.

After spending an hour here, continue on your drive.

Arrive at the Hotel in Thrissur, by late afternoon & Check-in.

Balance of the day is at leisure allowing you to unwind & explore the charms of Thrissur at your own pace. (we will be happy to offer suggestions & / or make arrangements).

“God's Own Country” is the tagline of Kerala Tourism which was first coined by Walter Mendez, the Creative Director of an Indian Advertising Agency in 1989, at the request of the Government of Kerala, in order to showcase the State’s natural beauty & the comparatively unexplored places. Since then, Kerala is always referred to as God's Own Country in official Tourism Brochures. This term also has a mythological connotation - it is believed by Hindus that Lord Parshuram, a manifestation of Lord Vishnu threw his axe into the vast sea to develop land for his followers to reside peacefully. And that is how the state of Kerala was born from the God itself.

Thrissur was once the Capital of the Kingdom of Cochin & was a point of contact for the Assyrians, Greeks, Persians, Arabs, Romans, Portuguese, Dutch & English. The City has always played an active part, be it in trade relations during the ancient & medieval times, later during the period of colonial rule, to its prosperity under King Sakthan Thampuran (also known as Raja Rama Varma) who was to change Thrissur’s destiny forever under his effective leadership. Much has happened in the intermittent periods with a lot of action brewing politically. But today, the City continues to thrive as the Cultural Center & is also increasingly becoming a place that leading Entrepreneurs hail from.

The small charming City famed for its vast spiritual, cultural, historical & natural heritage, holds a significant place in promoting the State’s Culture & Arts as it is the birthplace of several traditional Art & Dance forms like Kathakali & Mohiniyattam. It is also the location of Kerala Kalamandalam, a University for Arts, Kerala Sahitya Academy, Kerala Lalitakala Academy & Kerala Sangeeta Nataka Academy.

The ancient cultural center in its current layout, centered around the ancient Vadakkumnathan Temple, many other significant religious landmarks & Thekkinkad Maidan (or Square) around which the rest of the city took shape under King Shakthan Thampuran.

The many Temples not only provide a peek into the profundity of ancient Indian spirituality but also stand as irreplaceable markers of the region's long-standing religious heritage. Vadakkunnathan Temple dedicated to Shiva, is a especially notable example of classical Kerala architectural style that features a monumental Tower on each of the 4 sides in addition to a Koothambalam & adorned with interesting Murals.

Thiruvambadi Sri Krishna is a Hindu Temple & the main deities here are Krishna in the form of a child & Bhadrakali, both having equal importance. Though the original Temple was constructed in the 16^th century, in the impressive local architectural style, the current structure was ordered by Raja Rama Varma who ruled Kochi in the 18^th century. The Temple is home to several Elephants.

History buffs this way, please. For a taste of royalty & politics of yore, Shakthan Thampuran Palace is the place to be. Located in the city centre, it is a confluence of the Kerala & Dutch architectural styles & was known as Vadakkechira Kovilakom (& Perumpadappu Palace). It was renovated in 1795 by King Rama Varma Shakthan Thampuran.

His reign (CE 1790 -1805) is known as the golden era of Kochi. The King played a prime role in transforming Thrissur into the cultural Capital of Kerala. The Palace is a 2 storeyed structure with a Courtyard (or naalukettu) common to the traditional Kerala-style houses. Large rooms, high ceilings & Italian marble floors ensure that the interiors are pleasant even in the harshest of weather conditions.

The King died in 1805 & was laid to rest in the Palace. Apart from being a study in architecture, the Palace features a Museum with Galleries for Bronze statues & artefacts, Numismatics & Epigraphy.

A Sarpa Kaavu (or Serpent Grove), where Serpents are worshipped & known for maintaining the ecological balance, is located near the Museum.

There is also the Heritage Garden (or Archaeological Garden) which features specimens of Plants & Trees indigenous to the area that dates back to the Stone Age.

There is also the Our Lady of Dolours Basilica alias Puthenpally is a minor Basilica of the Syro-Malabar Catholic Church in Thrissur. The tallest Church in India, largest in Kerala & 3^rd tallest in Asia, it is famous for its fine Indo-Gothic architectural style. With an area of 25,000 square feet, it has soaring Belfries at the entrance, double-storeyed Aisles all along the Nave & Transepts & 11 Altars, 5 on either side of the main one. Its exuberant interior decorations include fine specimens of Murals, Icons & Statues of Saints & scenes from the Scriptures.

Thrissur is also famous for its delicious & diverse Cuisine. Staple foods such as rice, fish curry, coconut & a variety of tropical fruits form part of the everyday cuisine. Sweet dishes like Payasam will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Apart from the religious side, the Town is home to a vibrant community, exquisite Architecture, authentic Cuisine, traditional Arts & religious Festivals.

An exploration of Thrissur is incomplete without delving into its rich cultural essence. The City serves as a thriving hub for Kerala's traditional Arts, Crafts & Music. A kaleidoscope of sacred colorful Festivals & cultural Events speaks volumes of the city's artistic significance. The most renowned is Thrissur Pooram, an annual Hindu Temple festival but it is just one element that reflects the district’s vibrant glory. Think Thrissur & it is caparisoned Elephants, colorful Parasols & the beat of a 1,000 Percussion Instruments, that come to mind.

Situated in the center of Kerala, Thrissur also ensures a close encounter with nature’s splendor. The City is surrounded by numerous Beaches, Hillocks, Forests & Waterfalls Rivers & Lakes that provide a tranquil experience away from urban hubbub.

Thrissur can also be referred as the Gold Capital of India as it is one of the main manufacturing centers of plain gold jewelry in the South India, generating multi-billion USD revenues annually. All major Kerala Jewelers have branches in city.

The City provides visitors with an unmatched experience that spans diverse realms of Spirituality, Culture & Nature.

Today, we will have the unique opportunity to witness Pulikali, also known as the Tiger Dance or Kaduvakali, one of the most captivating Folk-art forms of Kerala.

Today is free to relax & explore independently the raison d‘etre for coming to Thrissur.

In time, walk out on your own to the Swaraj Ground, the venue for the enchanting Pulikali festivities.

The literal meaning of Pulikali is the ‘play of the Tigers’ hence the performance revolves around the theme of Tiger hunting. Pulikali makes use of forms & symbols of nature that finds expression in its bright, bold body painting. So, by fusing Man & Beast in its artistic language, it flamboyantly celebrates the connection between Humans & Nature. The quirky Procession includes Floats from each village & the different Troupes vie with each other to make the best Floats as well as the ‘best-dressed’ Tigers.

Pulikali isn’t just a colorful procession. It is also a competition between local organizations called Deshams, representing different Towns & Villages. Each Team comprises of between 10 to 50 “Tigers”. Teams are awarded prizes for Costumes & folk-dance Performances.

The colorful recreational Dance is performed by trained talented Artists to entertain people on the auspicious occasion of 4^th day of the Onam (Nalaam Onam), an annual revered Harvest Festival in Kerala, during August & September, when the entire State erupts in celebration & crowd line up on the streets to watch one of Thrissur’s oldest traditions come to life.

Signifying the New Year, it is one of the most fascinating & fun-filled festivals of Kerala & the Swaraj Ground in the City-center serves as the vibrant stage for this colorful Carnival when Pulikali Dance Troupes from all over the district assemble to display their skills.

Pulikali Tiger Dance was introduced by Maharaja Rama Varma Sakthan Thampuran, the King of Cochin from the late 18^th to early 19^th century, who wanted to celebrate Onam with a Dance that reflected the celebration of courage, bravery & the macho spirit of the force. The Dance is practiced mostly in the Thrissur & Palghat districts but smaller scale Performances are common in the villages & many other towns in Kerala.

During this festive occasion, the streets of Thrissur come alive with locals & visitors alike, immersed in the joyous revelry of Pulikali, a spectacle that attracts 1,000s of people from across Kerala & beyond, eager to witness this captivating display of culture & tradition. Pulikali dance is a symbol Onam just like the legend of Mahabali & Pookalam.

The Performers adorn their bodies with intricate faces of Lion or Tiger & patterns of stripes vibrant hues of bright yellow, orange, red & black painted on their trunks.

The elaborate makeup for the Show is an elaborate affair & in the late hours of the night before, dedicated Make-up Artists spend hours in the preparations to transform men - & now women - into Tigers & Leopards. The application of heavy oil paints takes hours to apply & is known to be very challenging to remove, yet it adds to the authenticity & allure of the Performance. Their legs are painted yellow & the paint is dried by standing under the Sun.

Donning various hues & Masks, they enact hunting scenes such as the Tiger preying on an animal or being hunted by a Hunter. The high-energy traditional folk-dance movements are synchronised to the rhythmic beats of Drums & traditional Percussion instruments such as Thakil, Udukku & Chenda. The Dancers enact many different colorful forms. 100s of vibrantly painted men & boys (almost exclusively), costumed as Tigers & Leopards & Panthers mark the occasion with a massive procession through the streets of Thrissur.

Women were allowed to join the Pulikali festival in Thrissur, for the first time in 2018. While they were never officially restricted from taking part in Pulikali over the past 2 centuries, their inclusion was seen as a long-awaited turning point. Women Integration & Growth Through Sports (WINGS), a group that works toward female empowerment, has led the efforts to bring women into Pulikali.

Continue exploring as you wish or relax at the Hotel.

Morning after an early breakfast, meet the Rep at around 08.00 am, Check-out & depart for the embarkation Jetty in the ancient village of Pallippuram in Alleppey.  

But enroute, you will stop at the nearby village of Nettoor., where the Kalari Centre is located.

What first comes to mind when you think of India?

Colorful festivals, spicy Food, the Himalayan Mountains, the the Taj Mahal, Bollywood, Cricket, Palaces, Temples, Ayurveda, Yoga, Mahatma Gandhi, Mother Theresa, Nirvana, Hinduism, Buddhism …. the list is endless.

And yet, one of India’s greatest marvels by far happens to be a form of UNESCO World Heritage designated Intangible Cultural Heritage least known to the Western world - the Art of Kalaripayattu.

The Kalarippayat is derived from 2 words in Malayalam, Kalari literally meaning training ground & Payattu meaning combat or practice or exercise.

Kalaripayattu is an Indian Martial art that originated in Kerala over 6,000 years ago, around 11^th - 12^th century CE. It is both a Martial art & a way of life consisting of 5 inter-related parts - Fighting, Healing (Ayurveda), Yoga, Astrology & spiritual practice, none of which can exist or develop in isolation of the others. Introduced by Lord Parashurama, an Avatar of the Hindu God Vishnu, Kalari combines the basic principles of Psychology & Physiology, with the purpose of developing the whole person.

Forming an integral part of the region’s socio-political system, Kalaripayattu was originally a secret fighting method of medieval Kerala’s warrior caste, the Nairs, with intense training in physical discipline, armed & unarmed Combat, Breathing, Meditation & Healing treatments. According to early scriptures, it spread beyond India in the 6^th century AD when a wandering Monk, Bodhidharma, introduced to his Chinese brethren, laying the foundation for Asian Martial Arts. Shaolin Kung Fu & Karate are but 2 of the forms that evolved from it.

This ancient tradition is still practiced today, passed down from Guru (Teacher) to student, with its distinct style & code of ethics informed by Kerala’s unique Culture, History & Geography. Kalaripayattu’s actual movements & techniques originated from observing the habits of 8 “warrior” animals that inhabited the region: the Lion, Boar, Cobra, Elephant, Tiger, Horse, Rooster & Buffalo. Each represented a distinct pose or stance with its corresponding style, function & power.

Though the deadliest fighting system in the world - & possibly because it is - this mother of all Martial Arts is also the most principled, as its teachings were & remain strictly intended for self-defense & healing, a reminder of the fact that with Knowledge & Strength comes Responsibility. To this day, Kalari Masters assess whether you are worthy of learning its most lethal techniques based on your character, behavior & intentions in order to prevent its knowledge & power from being misused.

It is claimed that skilled Warriors can disable or kill their opponents simply by touching the correct Marmam (vital point) of the 107 identified & defined by Sushruta (circa 6^th century BC), 64 of which were classified as lethal if struck properly with a fist or weapon. Nonetheless, the goal of Kalaripayattu is not the acquisition of power through the ability to cure or kill; but rather self-improvement or self-perfection, regarded as a reward, yet without the Belts, Awards or alternative forms of recognition that are bestowed in other Martial Arts. It is a supreme example of the human spirit in its purest form.

Today, the practice of Kalarippayattu has become more about how to harness one’s body-mind powers in order to craft an ideal self than how to prepare for mortal combat. Yet, some of today’s greatest Masters still expect students to live by its moral code & ascetic dictates, resisting those temptations of modern life that corrupt the soul, such as drugs, alcohol & excess.

What other form of cultural expression can claim to cure & kill or harm & heal with the opposite sides of the same hand, simultaneously making an art of Peace through War & a reward of self-improvement through the God like transcendence of one’s physical limitations - all with the grace & beauty of a dancer?

The Training Centre was established in 1954 & imparts authentic training in both Northern & the Southern systems of Kalarippayat, the traditional Martial Art of Kerala, which has its origin from the ancient Indian scripture, Dhanur Veda.

A Kalari building is constructed according to the time-honored principles of the Kalari traditions & according to accepted methods of worshipping the Kalari Gods & Guru, performing the necessary rituals. The south-west corner of a Kalari houses the guardian Deity of the Kalari. Flowers, Incense & Water are offered to the Deity every day. There is also a Guruthara inside, where a Lamp is kept burning in reverence to all the Gurus (masters) of Kalari. Before starting the day’s practice, it is the norm for Practitioners to pray to the Deity. More & more foreigners have started visiting ENS Kalari for studying & observing Kalarippayat.

The exercises you will see here, help to understand the 107 Energy Points in the body, learn the practices to maintain the normal flow of the Energy & to heal ailments by Marma Therapy. These exercises help to gain Stamina, Flexibility, calibrated functioning of Body & Mind and quick reflexes required for Self-protection. The 7 tiers of Exercise symbolise the 7 abilities that each Practitioner must possess - Strength, Patience, Power to Command, the Posture, the Expression & the Sound.

Every day there is a demonstration from 7.00 pm - 8.00pm. For regular watching, just the Exercises, Guests can drop in any time.

 After observing for an hour, hop on the vehicle again & continue your drive to Pallippuram.

Arrive in an hour & Check-in at the Kettuvallam (Rice-Boat) which will be your home for the next 7 nights.

Pallippuram (also known in English as Palliport or in Portuguese as Paliporte) is a small scenic green village on Vypeen Island in Kochi.

Lush green beautiful Pallippuram can be thought of as a facsimile of God’s own country. Lying on the western tip of the Palakkad district, it is surrounded by water on 3 sides with Vembanad Lake in its east & west side and Chenganda River in its south. A unique feature of the Village is its white soil, caused by the high levels of Silica content, that is an essential element in manufacturing of Glass & Cement.

In 52 AD, St. Thomas, the Apostle landed at Maliankara near the Port of Muziris which was also called Muchiri because Periyar River branched out in 3 Streams (called Muchiri in Malayalam) before it joins the Arabian Sea. This was one of the oldest & busiest Port on the West Coast of India known to the world by more than 20 different names.

In the biggest ever flood known in the history of Kerala, this Port was washed off in 1341 AD & a new Island was formed in the Vembanad Lake. It attracted a lot of Migrants from all over & the Residents named it Vypeen.  The Portuguese landed in the Pallipuram village on this Island & built a Fort & a Church dedicated to Our Lady for the believers of the surrounding area.

In the 18^th century, Tipu Sultan, King of Mysore, was camped near the River Chalakkudy in order to attack parts of Travancore & was destroying most of the Christian & Hindu places of worship. The local people gathered together in the Church & prayed to Our Lady for her help. Suddenly, a Mist (fog) developed in the area & the Church was not visible to Tipu’s army who thought the Mist had developed as a phenomenon of the of the Arabian Sea.

There was also a spontaneous flash flood in the Periyar River which made the Sultan change his mind & return to Mysore. The Residents considered this a miracle & changed the named the Church  Manjumatha (Basilica of Our Lady of Snows). Palackal Thomas Malpan was born & lived here, heading a Seminary (1818 -1855) for teaching / training Priests, the first such run by the St. Thomas Christians.

Paleport Castelo em Cima (Pallipuram Fort), is an iconic landmark of the serene Village & is one of the oldest surviving European Forts in India, built by the Portuguese in 1503. Preserving vestiges of European heritage, the Fort has been built in a hexagonal shape & constructed with Lime, Laterite & Wood.  It was renovated in 1505 & the Timber structure was replaced with Stone. The architecture is notable as it has been built on a lower floor at an elevation of 5 feet. The layout is such that it would have been easy to mount Guns to command the quarters around the Fort. Inside, there is a vast open space that leads to the Cellar from where, as per local lore, there is a Tunnel that goes to Cheraman Masjid in Kodungalloor.

The ancient ‘active’ "Manjumatha" Church was built by the Portuguese, during the same time as the Fort. The Church dedicated to Our Lady was established in 1503. It was renovated in 1931 & completely rebuilt in 2006. The Church came under the Diocese of Kochi in 1557 & became a Parish in 1577. In 2007, the Church celebrated its 500^th Anniversary.

On 27 August 2012, Pope Benedict XVI issued a decree & raised its status to that of minor Basilica. It is the 20^th Basilica in India & 8^th in Kerala. The Catholic Basilica is an important pilgrimage centre. The annual Feast of Our Lady of Snow is celebrated on 15 August every year, the day of Assumption of Our Lady & the Independence Day of India.

There is also the famous  Kadavil Mahalakshmi Temple & the  beautiful Muziris Beach. The Vambanad Lake is the venue of the spectacular annual Race of Snake Boats representing different Villages of the region, on the 2^nd Saturday in the month of August, which draws in 1000s of locals & foreigners.

Reach the Pier & on embarkation, you will be welcomed by the Team on the Boat & Check-in formalities are completed. Then, you are shown to your Cabin, which would be your abode for the next 7 nights.

Come back to the Reception Lounge area for a mandatory Safety Briefing & to meet the Team.

Enjoy a sumptuous Lunch & relax.

MV Vaikundam has 9 well-appointed air-conditioned Cabins with en-suite Washrooms with running hot & cold water, large Windows, twin Beds, a Closet on the lower Deck.

The upper Deck features a Sun Deck with a 360 degree view, a fully functional Kitchen, an air-conditioned & exquisitely decorated Dining Hall seating 22 guests & Bar Lounge. There is also a small Library & an Ayurvedic Massage Room with trained male & female Masseuse. Additionally, to ensure impeccable service, there is an on-board Destination Manager, Cruise Director & Chef along with one of the highest ratios in the industry, of a crew of 12 to service 18 Guests.

The Buffet Menu includes traditional Indian Vegetarian & non-Vegetarian Indian food using locally available fresh products & international Cuisine. Once, during the Cruise, a Chef’s special meal featuring traditional Kerala Cuisine with fresh catch of seafood served Kerala style on a Banana leaf. Indian Wine & Beer is available, with a charge.

The Boat aptly named after the Hindu God Vishnu’s abode in heaven, has been around for nearly 20 years, doing shorter cruise trips including the one that former Prime Minister of India, Atal Bihari Vajpayee spent a day on, during his famous vacation when he came out with his musings in Verse.

The 120 feet long Boat’s wooden Hull was modelled on the traditional Kettuvallom or Rice Barges of the past. The Rooms are made using wooden panels with wall papering, wood panelling, sparkling wooden flooring. The upper Deck has some Bamboo matting with Bamboo poles for roof, following some of the traditional practices but contain all modern amenities.

The Hull on the upper segment is made by joining planks of local wood ‘Aanjili,’ using strong coir rope on the segments above the waterline. The wood is traditionally coated with a caustic black Resin made by boiling cashew kernel & fish oil. The Hull is periodically treated with the Neem & Fish oil.

Indian River Cruising & this particular Cruise has been covered in international Media & Trade Magazines. It has been showcased in the Nat Geo People Channel, National Geographic Channel & Master Chef's Program of Channel Nine Australia.

Our Partner & the journey you are about to undertake, has been acclaimed in the Sunday Times, Daily Telegraph, National Geographic, World of Cruising, CruiseCritic.com, Australian News, New York Times, Travel & Leisure, Conde Nast Traveler, El Pais, Voyage DeLuxe, Vivere Zen, Travel Weekly & many more.

You will be following in the footsteps of tony travellers from reputed institutions like the Smithsonian including its Board of Directors, National Geographic Society including its Directors & Trustees as part of the CRE & Nat Geo Expeditions, Geographical Society of Australia, Alumni of various universities like Harvard including the Owners, Presidents & Managing Directors Club, Yale, UCLA, University of Arizona, etc.

Although they have not travelled on the Boat, our partner is regularly trusted by famous personalities like Goldie Hawn, Russell Brand, Uma Thurman's father Robert Thurman & many more.

Welcome to God’s Own Country! When it comes to this gorgeous state, the popular moniker is no exaggeration. Called by National Geographic as the Green Venice of the East, the bustling, palm lined, emerald Waterways are indeed picture postcard perfect.

To get to really know Kerala, one must first understand its Waterways - the lifeline of the entire region. There is no better way to truly comprehend the life of the people along the Canals. And what better way to visit them at close quarters than cruising on awe-inspiring Kettuvallom Boats. 

The Cruise takes you through wide tranquil Lakes, flowing Rivers, narrow Canals with many Villages on its banks that are only connected by water. Life is all on these Waterways with people commuting in wooden dugout Canoes where school children, Traders & Fishermen, all mingle together to make the voyage through the bustling waters both colourful & very exciting.

From cruising in Waterways separated from the Arabian Sea by narrow Beaches to cruising in intricate narrow Canals 20 feet above the surrounding Paddy fields held together by Dykes, where the Houses on the banks brush along the sides of the Kettuvallom to vast open Lakes along the Arabian Sea, with spectacular Sunsets splashing the endless waters with a bright orange glow, the River Cruise is indeed breathtaking.

Visit Temples, Churches, Markets, traditional Dance & Martial Art Schools & Ayurvedic Medicine centres. You may meet the Elephants & ride a Canoe through the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary. See the Artisans making Coir & how traditional wooden Boats are built by stitching the planks of wood together with coir rope.

Enjoy a sumptuous Lunch - freshly cooked traditional Kerala meal served on a clean Banana leaf. Unwind on-board as the Cruise Director talks about Alleppey – the “Green Venice of the East”, its Geographical, Cultural & Social significance.

Unwind as the Boat sets sail for Viakom, leaving behind the Skyscraper lined horizon of the city of Cochin & cruising gently through remote Villages & Islands interspersed along Rivers, Lake, coastal Estuaries & Lagoons.

Leisurely glide on the Rice Barge through the placid Backwaters, seeing the Villages where all daily activities revolve around their wooden Canoes. It is a tranquil experience floating through historic or idyllic destinations while sampling local flavours & staying in a deluxe Houseboat.

Catch the stunning view of endless Paddy fields & swaying Coconut trees as they surround you on all sides & lean over the waters as if they are admiring their own reflection. The proximity of the Lakes in this town & the dense greenery creates a perfect ambience for relaxing over a languorous cup of hot coffee.

By early evening, arrive at the ancient pilgrim town of Vaikom on the outskirts of Kochi & drop anchor for the night.

Vaikom made an indelible mark in the history of Casteism in Kerala, when the feudal ban on underprivileged communities from entering Temples & their premises was abolished due to a massive protest of the public. This incident had set in motion the Social Reformation in Kerala.

Get off the Boat & embark on a short walk to the local Cultural Centre to learn about Kathakali, the traditional dramatic & mimetic Dance form, which plays stories from the epics. It is a unique blend of Dance, Music, Action, Literature & Make-up..

Then, hop on a Tuk-tuk (or walk) a short distance to the ancient Mahadeva Temple. The largest Shiva Temple in Kerala. Devotees come from far off places for ritualistic ceremonies such as the First Meal of Babies, Marriage & Thanks-giving Meals for the poor, Cultural Performances & specific Rituals prescribed by the Veda.

The town is known for the Mahadeva Temple with a marvellous Kerala-style architecture, dedicated to Lord Shiva & the town is popularly called Kashi of the South. Devotees can also visit Ettumanoor Shiva Temple & Kaduthuruthy Thaliyil Mahadeva Temple. It is said that worshipping at all the 3 Temples opens doors to a multitude of blessings.

The architecture of the Temples in Kerala is based on ancient science of construction & geographical features of the land. As per the traditional architecture, each element of Temple represents an element of human body & a Temple is not only the space for spiritual enlightenment but also the venue for harmonious social networking.

Legend has it that demon Kharasura once did severe penance & prayed to Lord Shiva to attain salvation. Shiva granted him all his wishes & gave him 3 Lingas, asking him to worship them to attain Moksha. Kharasura carried one in his right hand, the other in his left hand & the 3^rd tied around his neck. He realised that he couldn't lift all the Lingas when he rose to continue his journey. Upon hailing Lord Shiva, he was told that Shiva would remain where the Lingas had been put down, to give moksha to anyone who came here to worship him. So it is said, that the Linga in the right hand is Vaikom, the left one Ettumanoor & the one on the neck is Kaduthuruthy.

After watching the Temple rituals by sunset, hop on the vehicle & return to Boat.

Relax & enjoy a sumptuous Dinner on board.

While enjoying Breakfast, cruise to the rustic Chenganda village.  

Navigate dense, narrow Canals & open Waterways, while on the banks busy Village life takes place. You may pass Duck Herders on a punt, Buffalo grazing at the water’s edge, Fishermen in dugout Canoes, Coir Weavers & Coconut Harvesters.

Laid-back & peaceful, Chenganda is famous as a village / hamlet of center of a Coir Weavers, Shell Harvesters & Farmers. It was once a small township with a small Boat Harbour for loading & unloading raw materials & building equipment.

It is common in Kerala that the ladies spend their afternoons at homes weaving Coir to make extra income for the family. Visitors can observe how the Weavers transform the natural Fibre from the Coconut into a strong Rope. People of Chenganda are famous for the quality of the Coir Ropes they spin & the Geotextiles they weave & are major Suppliers of this local Cottage industry.

Coir, the environment friendly yarn, spun of the natural fiber of Coconut husk, is the life line of Villagers along the coast of Kerala - the land of Kera (Coconut), from time immemorial.

Blessed with salubrious weather & the inter-connected network of Rivers, Lakes & Lagoons running parallel to the coast, the land is fertile for Coconut cultivation.

Husk of coconut is the raw material of the Coir, which is locally available throughout the coast of Kerala. Having 37% of the Husks available in the entire country, Kerala produces around 70% of Indian Coir & Coir products.

Coir & related products find direct use in Cultivation, Fishing, Household & for the construction of Houses & Boats. Thanks to the abundance of high-yielding Coconut trees & the superior quality of this organic Fiber in terms of color, durability & flexibility, the Coir products of Kerala have gained much demand in the Global market.

Being an intermediate as well as final product, serving a variety of purposes, Coir is in demand by people of all walks of life, either as a utility material or as a decorative one. The finished products such as Clinical Mattresses, Mats, Carpets, Baskets, Ropes, Geo-textiles & lots more, have gained popularity in the modern society where an alternative to Plastic products is of an urgent need.

Spend time with the Weavers, engaging in conversation with them about the riparian life. Coir, one of the major exports of Kerala, is of much relevance today than ever before when Plastic has become a global menace. Also watch various indigenous techniques of Fishing.

Return to the Boat & continue cruising through a Barrage to Thanneermukkom Village.

Enjoy the expanses of Lake Vembanad experiencing its wetland eco-system. Hear the Destination Manager talk about indigenous practices of Paddy cultivation in Kuttanad region.

The Salt Water Barrier at Thanneermukkom built across Vembanad, the largest Lake in Kerala, essentially divides the Lake into 2 - one half with perennially brackish water & the other with fresh water enriched by 5 Rivers flowing from the hills to the south, draining into the Lake.

The Thanneermukkom Bund was constructed in 1974, as a part of the Kuttanad Development Scheme to prevent tidal action & intrusion of salt water into the Kuttanad low-lands across Vembanad Lake between Thannermukkom on west & Vechur on east. The beautiful tranquil Village, the starting point of the Bund, next to the Lake is dotted with many places of worship & its rustic charm has made it a favourite stop for tourists.

Later in the afternoon, the Boat will dock at one of the Islets where you have an exciting experience to enjoy.

You will visit the house of a Syrian Christian family for a traditional sumptuous Lunch. Their house is located on an Islet which was made by the Men of the house, by reclaiming land from Backwaters.

Few areas in the world boast more ideal growing conditions for Spices. Long before Jesus’ time Jews, Arabs & other ancient maritime Traders settled in Kerala to buy, trade & store Spices.

Christianity is the 3^rd most practised religion in Kerala, accounting for 18% of the population according to the Indian census. Although a minority, a significant portion of the Indian Christian population resides in the State. With those in power realising that Agriculture & Trade are the main factors that lead to the Nation’s progress, Christians chose Trade as their main vocation & got a place of pride in the Society.

Historians surmise that the diverse, rich Trading Center of Kerala may well have drawn this Palestinian Jew of the Roman Empire - Apostle Thomas in the 1^st century, who wished to preach the Gospel in the course of his evangelistic activity.

When, in 1498, the famous Portuguese Explorer Vasco da Gama sailed to Kerala to open up the first Europe-India sea route. Imagine his surprise when he found Christians. 2 years later, Captain Pedro Álvares Cabral followed, bringing 8 Franciscan Priests, 8 Chaplains & a Chaplain Major. He left a few behind, who introduced the Latin - read Roman Catholic - rite. Once European Christianity had arrived, life was never the same again for Kerala Christians. The Community would be split, re-split, changed, reformed & reinvented

Modern Syrian Christians of Kerala (the majority Christian population here) believe that the Apostle Thomas - the one who so famously questioned Jesus - visited here in 52 AD & baptized their forefathers. Thomas’ name remains ubiquitous in Kerala, appearing on everything from Baptism Registers & the neon signs of Jewelry Stores & Bakeries to the nameplates of Dental Surgeons & Real Estate Developers’ ads.

Thousands of Churches today bear his name, their rituals & theology derived from Eastern Orthodox traditions in the liturgical language Syriac, a formation of Aramaic, the dialect Jesus & Thomas spoke.

The Saint Thomas Christians, also called Syrian Christians or Malankara Nasrani (or Nasrani Mappila or Nasrani), are an ethno-religious community of Malayali Syriac Christians from Kerala. The term Syrian relates not to their ethnicity but to their historical, religious, & liturgical connection to Syriac Christianity. In the beginning of the new millennium, the number of Syrian Christians in the State, was estimated to be about 3 million.

For decades now, the liturgical language of Kerala Christians has been Malayalam, the language of Kerala. During the negotiations surrounding arranged Marriages, it is common for both families to make discreet inquiries as to whether the other’s ancestries reach back to the Apostle. A “yes” can prove a big plus - apart from the quantum of Dowry, of course.

A walk around the Farm will be educative. The Lady of the house will demonstrate the preparation of traditional Christian Cuisine. You may also try your hand at cooking as you interact with the Family, listening to the story of her family, of 3 generations of laborious Men & equally strong Women who supported their pioneering spirit.

The delicacies of Kerala could be classified on the basis of the castes in the State & distinct Cooking techniques & process can be classified as Hindu, Mappilah & Christian. This applies to grand Feasts, as well as day to day home cooking. All the 3 Communities have different styles & traditions. In Christian cooking, there is no differentiation in preparation of Fish, Meat & Vegetables. Fish dishes have an overdose of spices. This would be evident in the food cooked for rituals related to death. Vegetarian food alone would be served at any function held in connection with the death of a person till the 40^th day. Fish & Meat would be served at the feast on the 40^th day of mourning. This is applicable for death anniversaries too. Fish & Meat are served at the Feasts in Churches. Spices & vinegar are the main components of non-vegetarian dishes. It is said that no particular food is taboo to the Christians. They prefer rice & curries.

Syrians have food, sitting on a Mat spread on the floor, normally in brass plates. Meals on special occasions were initially served on a plantain leaf. Folding an edge of the leaf was a custom that prevailed among the Syrian Christians alone.

Enjoy the Lunch which you have ‘partially’ helped prepare.

In time, return to the Boat & continue cruising around the villages & reach Kumarakom by evening where the Boat will dock for the night.

Situated in the Kottayam district, Kumarakom, the 'Venice of the East' is a veritable paradise in the lush Backwaters of the vast, beautiful Vembanad Lake, laced with Canals, where Houseboats & traditional Kettuvalloms (Rice Barges) ply the waters. Kumarakom is an unhurried Village with a smattering of dazzling top-end Resorts & the renowned Sanctuary.

The name Kumarakom was derived from the deity of its oldest Temple Kumaran. (Kumaran's Akam meaning ‘place’) became Kumarakom. It was part of Vadakkancore Kingdom but in 1750, it was conquered & annexed by Marthanda Varma, the King of Travacore. The first Christian Church was built here in the year 1769 on the land granted by the King.

You are greeted by lush forests & massive Coconut trees lining up on the shores with the wind dictating their course - a perfect tropical touch to the landscape. National Geographic listed it among the select destinations in the world that one must visit at least once in their lifetime.

The landscape basically consists of a cluster of Island villages in & around the large "Vembanad Kayal", Kerala’s heartland of Lagoons, Palm fringed Lakes, inter-linked with 100s of narrow Canals, with the typical low slung country Boats that carry everything from People to Fish, Rice & Coconuts to the Milkman & Newspaper Boy, local Politicians & Priests to Wedding parties, winding through the vast expanse of Paddy fields & the neat tiny Hamlets lined up along either side of the Canals.

The Backwater houses a variety of species of both Fauna & Flora. They are rich with marine life namely the exclusive 'Kumarakom Karimeen' (pearl spotted fish), Konju (tiger prawns), Njandu (crabs), Chemeen (prawns) & many more. 

There are quite a few ways to relax here - cruising on a Rice Barge or fishing in the Canals amidst panoramic Coconut groves. 

The adventurous could indulge in water sports such as Windsailing & Waterskiing. You could even take a Canoe out into the quite Lakes & armed with a Fishing Rod, catch your own supper. Make sure you do not miss out on Karimeen & the favourite fresh water food & fresh Toddy, local wine.

The legendary Bird Sanctuary here, spread over 14 acres, is an Ornithologist's paradise & a favourite haunt of migratory birds.

Wake up at dawn & set out by a Canoe for a guided visit to the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, a cluster of Lagoons of Vembanad wetland Eco-system at the backdrop of Mangroves, Paddy fields & Coconut groves.

Watch some of the endemic species like Darters, Herons, Egret, Waterfowls, Cuckoos & Waterfowls. And Parrots, Teal, Larks, Flycatchers, Owls, Moor Hens, Cormorants, Gulls, Terns, Skimmers, Storks, Vultures, Wood Beetle & many other birds can be seen here during their respective migratory seasons.

Return to the Boat in time for a hearty Breakfast.

Relax on the Boat as you Cruise on the majestic Lake - its expanse, the calmness, the soothing breeze, the interspersed with Coconut groves & long stretches of vast expanses of Paddy fields lying below the sea level by 2-6 feet.

Lunch will be served while Cruising.

Along the way, stop to interact with Toddy Tappers & observe how they collect the sap of the stem of blossoming coconut flower & concoct an alcoholic beverage - Toddy, a favorite of the locals. Learn the process of preparation & you may also take a sip from his pot!

In between, you may even take the “optional” Ferry to explore the region, walk along the Dykes surrounding the expanses of Paddy fields & interact with the Farmers & Ladies of ‘Kudumbhashree’ - an experiment for poverty alleviation.

Kudumbashree is essentially a community network that covers the entire State of Kerala. It is a Government scheme for Women empowerment & Poverty eradication in rural villages. The name Kudumbashree in Malayalam language means ‘prosperity of the family’. It is arguably one of the largest Women’s Collective networks in the world. While the community network is formed around the central themes of Poverty & women Empowerment, its main features include democratic leadership & support structures formed from within the ‘Kudumbashree’ Family’.

Continue cruising around the small Hamlets through the narrow picturesque Canals, watching the typical Village life at close quarters.

Continue cruising through the remote interiors of Kavalam till dusk & arrive at the mooring point in Village, where Pampa River reverses its course & drains into Lake Vembanad.

Rustic Kavalam criss-crossed by Canals that are invariably full of flocks of Ducks, located on the banks of the Lake, is a favourite destination for Filmmakers. What makes Kavalam unique is its vast "watery junction" that joins 5 Canals at one place unlike other road junctions - a rare sight indeed! The Pampa River flows through the Village to merge into the famed Vembanad Lake.

Relatively untouched by modernity, serene Kavalam is a green haven. During summertime, the Paddy fields turn golden, resulting in a visual treat & this natural scenic beauty lures many Film Units. As in many other remote parts of Kerala, a decade back, this sleepy Village was accessible only by the Boats provided by the Government. And this non-accessibility gave Kavalam its laidback atmosphere & made it a part of Kerala's cultural folklore.

Morning after Breakfast, depart for Mankompu.

Enroute, stop at another quaint Village. If there is a pastoral nook in Kuttanad, that tourists would like to visit, it is Kalaikary, a little Holland in Kerala, surrounded by River, Lake, Ponds & other smaller water bodies. No vehicles & blaring horns, here.  

A place where everybody knows everybody else, the Boat Jetty is the Hub for Kanaikary’s activities, where news gets disseminated. While city dwellers dream of having a Car, every Villager’s dream is to have a Boat of their own, main reason being the connectivity with the world outside. Pemba River drains out to the Lake. There are Jetties at several points in the River. There are so many Houseboats, Canoes, shikar Boats bobbing up & down.

Paddy is extensively farmed here with water being drained out & Bunds keep the excess water out.

Kainakary comes up with its true mettle when the people as a whole put their heads, hearts & bodies together for the famous Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race, when the Oarsmen & the cheering Villagers feel a surge of emotional. United Boat Club, has been a Winner 14 times.

Fishing is a way of life here. The waters sustain the people. Women cast their lines into the water for a good catch with which to spice up lunch, while the men plumb the depths to gather Clam.

As one looks back at the Village, one can see its outline… a small Island cocooned amidst surrounding waters. You can circumvent all the Canals to reach Kainakary. Sail beyond Kainakary & you will reach R-Block where the Pamba & the Vembanad, the River & the Lake merge. There are dwellings by the side of the Canals that flow into the Pampa.

Kuttanad has been deified & given cult status as a location for many popular Malayalam movies. There is romance at every turn with its scenic beauty, large spreads of water, small Canals, lush green Paddy fields, small Boats, Houseboats, rustic Songs & Toddy shops dotting he entire landscape.

Walk ashore & visit Chavara Bhavan, the ancestral home of the Catholic Saint Kuriakose Elias Chavara, one of the founding fathers & the first Superior General of the first Congregation of the Catholic Church for men, the Carmelites of Mary Immaculate (CMI) & a similar one for women, Congregation of the Mother of Carmel (CMC). He had dedicated his life for the upliftment of the poorest among the poor. The House is now preserved as a Museum. Framed accounts provided by Faithful, attributing deeds to the intercession by St Chavara, are displayed outside his room.

He built a Syro-Malabar Catholic St. Joseph's Church in nearby Mannanam on top of a Hill & his mortal remains are interred in the Church. St. Chavara,also started the first Printing Press in Kottayam in the Church complex in 1846 which was used to bring out the first Malayalam Daily Nasrani Deepika.

The Church is an important Pilgrimage center for his followers. The Compound also houses the Residence used by the Saint. He died in 1871, leaving behind him the high reputation of a very holy Monk. He was declared blessed on February 8, 1986 by His Holiness Pope John Paul II, the first canonized Catholic Saint of Indian origin.  In 2014, when he was formally canonized as a Saint, 60,000 people attended the Thanksgiving Mass which was celebrated by 100 Priests.

Because of his sanctity & his showering of blessings upon those who seek, Mannanam has become a Pilgrim centre. Thousands of people come to the Tomb of St. Kuriakose Elias Chavara on every Saturday for the Holy Mass & Novena. The feast of Saint Chavara is celebrated with great devotion & solemnity every year from December 26^th - 03^rd January.

Get back on the Boat & cruise through the serene Canals to Mankompu Village where you dock for the night. Get closer to the laid-back, yet harmonious, life along the way, paddling along narrow Canal by country boat, interacting with the villagers.

While cruising, listen to an engrossing Lecture by an Ayurveda Doctor as he explains about this 5000 years old Science, still being practiced by the local people. The ancient Indian Medical System, known as Ayurveda, is based on ancient writings that rely on a “natural” & holistic approach to Physical & Mental health. Ayurvedic Medicine is based on one of the world's oldest medical science systems & remains one of India's traditional Health Care Systems. And now, increasingly popular in the West too, as the treatments are non-intrusive & have no adverse side affects, unlike Allopathic medicines.

Monkompu is a small but prosperous Island about 15 km away from Alappuzha town, especially known for being home for the Rice Research Station of the Kerala Agricultural University. A co-ordinated Government sponsored Rice Improvement Program began here in 1974 in this region of mainly Rice cultivators. The only mode of approach to this place was by means of Boats, although these days Ferries are available to carry the vehicles & a new Bridge is coming up linking it with the Allapuzha.

Dr. M.S. Swaminathan, internationally renowned, the father of the Green Revolution in India who dedicated his life to Farmers, is / was from this place. He masterminded the acclaimed ‘Kuttanad Package’, a proposal to uplift the agrarian life of the region, including Alappuzha, Kottayam & Pathanamthitta districts of Central Travancore. It was the State’s ‘rice bowl’ that sowed the seeds of the agrarian revolution in the country. The struggles of the Farmers of Kuttanad, which lies below sea level & is constantly subject to the vagaries of nature, deeply affected him.

“The very popular Mankombu Devi Temple here, required Priests & Helpers for its upkeep & this led the Ruler to invite members of the Tamil Brahmin community to the Village. They were offered land & facilities to conduct business in Mankombu & the Port city of Alappuzha. Swaminathan’s grandfather & many other families settled in the Village, given acres of land to cultivate Rice. But the low yield was an issue & the unpredictable climate played spoilsport with cultivation every year. It may have been the reason to inspire Swaminathan to pursue his studies in Agriculture & the rest as they say, is history.

Monkompu is famous for the Shri Bhagvathy Temple which interesting story behind it as to its origin. During the reign of King Veera Marthanda Verma of erstwhile Travancore, one official named Pavathil Kaimal requested the King to allot him some forest wood so that he could build his own house.

The King asked Kaimal to cut trees from Monkompu Hills near Palai. Kaimal cut the required logs & when he was trying to transport the logs by Boat,  3 very pretty women approached him & requested for a lift.  He supposedly informed them that he would allow them to travel with him provided they became ugly. The ladies then transformed themselves into ugly women & were allowed on the Boat. When the Boat reached the present location of Monkompu, it stopped there & could not be rowed further. The pretty women revealed to Kaimal that they were Goddesses & wanted a Temple to be built there for them.

They then changed themselves into Idols. For the 1^st Goddess, a Temple was built in Koyikkal, the for the 2^nd in a place called Vadaiattu. When they were considering where to consecrate the 3^rd Goddess, one of the assembled crowd, threw a branch of a mango tree & requested Kaimal to build a Temple where it fell. The crowd & officials conceded to the wish of the Goddess & the place where the Branch fell, it was called Mankombu, meaning "Branch of a Mango Tree". Till this day, the Descendants of the Man who threw the Mango branch have a say in the affairs of the Temple. The Temple is small compared to others & there is a big adjoining Pond.

The Idol of the Goddess made up of jackfruit wood, faces west.  A golden Mask (called as thanka anki) having peaceful features, adorns the face of the Goddess. This Idol has a crown with 15 Serpents carved on it, a symbol of an Elephant as her right ear piece & a Lion on the left ear. She also wears an 'Erukku Maala' (garland made off the Erukku flower).

The Temple organises an annual 10 days Festival starting on the day of Vishu (middle of April), attended by people from far & wide. It is an occasion for the people of this village who live & work elsewhere, to come to Home for a vacation & rediscover their roots. During Harvest Festivals such as Onam (August/September), Thiruvathira (middle of December), the Village comes alive with various Rituals & Cultural performances.

Hop ashore & walk to the Community Hall to watch a Cultural Performance (the Performance may even be organised on board). Dance & Music has always been an important part of Indian life. The range of musical phenomenon in India extends from simple melodies to what is one of the most well- developed ‘systems’ of classical music in the world.

Back to the Boat & a sumptuous Dinner waiting for you.

Early morning, hop ashore & take a leisurely stroll in the laid-back Village. Walking through this secluded alcove of nature offers a feel of traditional rural lifestyle of Kerala. Learn about indigenous practices of Paddy cultivation on reclaimed land below sea level.

After Breakfast, drive to the ancient exotic village, Aranmula, famous for the genius of its Craftsmen & the ancient vibe one experiences the moment one enters.

Enroute, you may stop at a Rubber Plantation. Kerala is the largest producer of Rubber in India because the soil is suitable for growing Rubber trees.

In the foothills of the Western Ghats (the gigantic mountainous ridge that runs down the spine of South India), there is a wide band of Plantations (Rubber, Vanilla, Pepper, Pineapple).

Barring about 320 large Growers with more than 10 hectares of Plantations, all others are smaller marginal Farmers.  These Plantations employ about half a million skilled labourers for tapping the milky fluid, called latex & then, processing it into rubber sheets.

India’s very first commercial Rubber Plantation was founded by an Irishman John Joseph - ‘JJ’ - Murphy, in 1903. He died in 1957 & was buried in an overgrown, middle-of-nowhere Cemetery, close to the hilltop Plantation he used to own. JJ Murphy’s portrait still hangs above the Bar of the once very British Mundakayam Club where a new generation of Planters still sip pegs of whisky under whirling ceiling fans.

The colonial Farmers & Missionaries helped establish Kerala’s the first wave of Rubber Estates & most of them are now owned by Syrian Christian families.

On a guided Tour, Tourists hike along red-earth paths, through industrial forests of Rubber, where each tall spindly Tree is skirted with a polythene tutu designed to protect the latex which drips into a little cup strapped to the trunk. You will see was lush, tropical greenery: Betel Nut, Coconut, Banana, Palms & forests of Rubber trees.

Those interested in a more intensive experience, can get up before dawn & they can see the ‘Tappers’, torches strapped to their heads, carefully cutting thin strips of bark on the Trees to release the milky fluid. To tap a Tree in monsoon, rain guards are fixed on its bark to prevent water drops from falling into the Coconut shell in which Latex collects. Those really keen & with enough time, can visit a Rubber Factory (ah, the sweet smell of coagulating latex & formic acid).

Aranmula enjoys a special place in the Kerala folklore. Famous for its Aranmula Kannadi (metal mirrors), the centuries’ old Sri Krishna Temple, the unique ritualistic feast of `Vallasadya’, & the famed Aranmula Snake Boat Race - the list goes on.

Kerala Tourism has declared Aranmula a heritage village. During the annual Vallasadya ritual at the Temple, the presiding deity of Parthasarathy is offered over 70 kinds of specially prepared Dishes. The Oarsmen of the Snake Boat Race. are also ritually treated to a grand Feast on the day of the grand Race. You may also enjoy the traditional Music & Dance programs here. There are lots of Kannadi shops around the Temple.

The small Temple town on the banks of the holy River Pamba, gets its name from the centuries old Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple (dedicated to Sri Krishna) frequented by Vaishnav pilgrims who come to visit the Parthasarathy (as Krishna was called when he acted as the Charioteer of the Pandava brother Arjuna) Temple. The Murals, Carvings & Paintings here, have inspired much awe & interest.

It is also the venue for the Aranmula Vallasadya, a ritual offering to the deity Lord Parthasarathy in which the Oarsmen of the Snake Boats are offered a feast. With over 70 different dishes, it is probably one of the largest Vegetarian feasts in India.

Its legendary Vijnana Kalavedi houses some of the finest classes & teachers for a variety of Art forms like Kathakali, classical dances, classical music & Kalaripayattu. Those interested in researching, can stay here for an extended period & observe the ancient crafts being passed on diligently to the next generation.

The ritualistic Regatta of the divine vessels called Snake Boats - Palliyodom of Aranmula - & in its neighbouring villages, takes part in a competitive Race on the Pampa River, a visual delight, watched by 1000s of locals & foreign & Indian Tourists.

But, the main draw throughout the year, except for the Snake Boat Race in August, are the families of Craftsmen who still preserve their generational dying skill in making Mirrors, using secrets of the trade, that have been passed down through generations.

The technical know-how behind the crafting these 250 - 300 years old unique metal Mirrors, using a mixture of a special combination of powdered metals, is confined to only to a small community of about 200 master Artisans in the Village.

There are various stories associated with the origin of the Aranmula Kannadi. According to one popular tale, 8 Craftsmen from Tamil Nadu & their families were brought to work in the Parthasarathi Temple. During the course of their work (some say as they were leaving for their homes in Tamil Nadu), the Artisans presented a Crown to the King that contained the Mirror as part of the decoration.

Apparently, while working at the Temple with different metals, the Craftsmen had come upon a special alloy that had sharp reflective properties & doubled up as a Mirror. Pleased with their metallurgical skills, the King invited them to stay back in Aranmula. Some of them did & continued to make the unique Mirror. Although the alloy is known to be a mixture of Copper & Tin, the preparation is still a secret.

Mirrors are usually made of Glass, whereas the Aranmula Kannadi is made of Metal. Glass Mirrors are silvered on the rear whereas the Metal Mirrors are not silvered at all. It is a front surface reflection Mirror, which eliminates secondary reflections & aberrations, typical of rear surface Mirrors. An even surface with a good polish makes it an excellent reflector. Another speciality of Aranmula Kannadi is that when the object comes in contact, it merges with the image. These unique Mirrors are the result of then Kerala's rich cultural and metallurgical traditions.

Depending on the shape of the Mirror, a Mould is prepared using Wax & the Metal is fixed inside. The Metal is then Polished. Making the Mould & Polishing is both a long & laborious task. Usually, they can make 70 to 80 Mirrors from a single Mould. The Polishing may take several weeks to obtain the perfect finish. Then, it is set in an ornamental Frame.

The Aranmula Kannadi is known for its durability & timeless beauty. Once polished & mounted, it never loses its sheen & can be used for years together. Each Mirror is unique, as they are all handmade & no 2 Mirrors are the same. The Kannadi is also known for its intricately crafted brass holders.

Aranmula Kannadi can break in rare cases but not as the normal glass, if it falls from a height or hit with some massive or sharp objects. Even if it is made out of metal, the thickness is a few millimeters.

The price of each model will vary according to the size i.e. the diameter & the Art work involved in the Frame. This Mirror is an expensive item due to its unique & handcrafted nature, rarity, intricate design, high-quality reflective surface & cultural significance. While the cost of Aranmula Kannadi may be high, it is a testament to the skill & dedication of the Artisans.

The Mirror is an example of India's mastery over metallurgical techniques & is considered auspicious & a symbol of good luck. It is part of the "astamangalya" or the 8 auspicious objects displayed during religious & social functions, including New Year celebrations, Marriages, etc. Local people consider it as auspicious to keep one at home to attract prosperity & luck. Even for Tourists, a trip here is never complete without obtaining a beautiful Aranmula Kannadi, the special Metal Mirrors. From being gorgeous Souvenirs to exquisite Wedding gifts, these are unique to this locale, not been replicated anywhere else in the world, would be a lifelong memory. Aranmula Kannadi has a prestigious national & international reputation.

Take a walk in the Village, interact with the Mirror makers engaged in different stages of their work. See the Artisans, squatting on the floor, using a tiny piece of velvet soaked in a special solution, diligently polishing the metal till it shines like a Mirror.

Visit the ancient Parthasarathy Temple.

Then, enjoy a traditional Lunch in a House along the bank of river Pampa & explore the Hostess’ Kitchen Garden of Flowers, Fruits & Spices. And the food is so good. Typical of Syrian Christian home-cooking, you will dine on Meat-ball curries, Rice-flour Chappatis, Appams (rice flour and toddy pancakes), Coconut fish curries with tapioca.

Post lunch, drive to nearby Pathanamthitta District on the banks of the Pampa River, to visit Vasthu Vidya Gurukulam, a unique Institution under the Department of Culture, Govt. of Kerala, intended for promotion & preservation of traditional Architecture, Mural Painting & other related subjects

Kerala is noted for its traditional Architecture, an interesting blend of Art & Science; be it in the case of Dwellings, places of worship like Temples or Palaces. The traditional methods merge aesthetics & living in absolute harmony with Nature. Written texts & oral traditions have existed in Kerala since ancient times & most of the basic tenets of this unique architectural know-how is preserved for the modern generations, to study.

Started in 1993, the Gurukulam offers regular courses in traditional Architecture & Mural Painting. It also has a Painting Gallery & a well-stocked Library.

The Vasthu Vidya Gurukulam has already documented in detail more than 165 traditional architectural structures in Kerala & is engaged in completing the documentation process of remaining structures in the State. It is now well acclaimed as a Centre of repute for learning the many facets of Kerala's traditional Architecture & offers. accredited Diploma courses in traditional Architecture & also acts as a Consultant for professional Architects.  Visitors are allowed to observe the daily Classes & can also purchase the Paintings from the Gallery.

After spending an hour, drive back to the Pier & sail for Champakkulam Village settled more than 1000 years ago by Syrian Christian Traders, who later converted to Roman Catholicism under the Portuguese. Kerala’s old Spice trade used to pass through this town enroute to Cochin & other Ports on the West Coast.

Champakulam is a beautiful & serene village situated on the banks of the River Pampa in the Alappuzha district. Part of Kuttanad, the rice bowl of Kerala, with its resplendent lush green Paddy fields, Coconut groves & Water Fowl, the Village is an important tourist spot, most famous for the annual Moolam Boat Race. The Pampa River flows through the middle of the Village.

The lush greenery of the Paddy fields especially during the monsoon season when the fields are flooded with water spread over is a sight to behold. Visitors can also enjoy a leisurely boat ride along the enchanting Canals to soak in the serene surroundings & observe the everyday life of the villagers. The stunning views of the Paddy fields & Canals provides an excellent opportunity for Photographers to capture the essence of rural life in Kerala.

Champakulam is known for its beautiful traditional wood & clay Houses, built in the Kerala style of architecture. The intricate carvings on the wooden Pillars & Doors, sloping roofs with clay Tiles & wide Verandas are some of the features of these houses surrounded by lush green Paddy fields & Canals, adding to the charm of the village. Visiting a family in one of these Houses is a great way to experience the local culture & learn more about the local history & lifestyle.

The Village has some excellent Art Emporiums. Displaying exquisite Collections of high-quality wooden Statues for sale. Many of these statues are also exported to other countries.

Champakulam has a rich tradition of Coir production & Visitors can observe how the skilled local women craft a range of coir products such as Ropes, Mats, Baskets etc. using traditional techniques. The products made here, are known for their high quality & are sold not just in the local Markets but all across India.

Champakulam is also home to the Kalloorkad St. Mary’s Forane Basilica, also known as the Champakulam Valia Palli, one of the oldest Churches in India & the mother Church of almost all Catholic Syrian Churches in Alleppey District.

Believed to be one of the 7 Churches that St. Thomas established in 427 AD. Rebuilt many times, the Rock inscriptions found around the Church narrates its history. There are many archaeological artifacts found in the vicinity, reflects on its history. The open-air rock Cross at the Church is one of the most ancient, with clear documentation of its antiquity upto 1151 AD. It is believed that this Church was the reason of reconciliation between Catholics & Jacobian Syrians centuries ago. Hence it is considered a rich heritage of Christianity in India.

The pearly white building is a wonderful amalgamation of Syrian & Portuguese designs. The brilliant Architecture, elaborate Rock inscriptions & ancient Artefacts boast about the Portuguese influence in the traditional designs.

Champakulam Church run by Syro-Malabar Catholic Church of India had very friendly relations with the Jacobite Syrian group & had a pivotal role in many ecumenical efforts in the 18^th century.

The Annual Feast of Valia Palli Festival on the 3^rd Sunday of October, held at the Church, is a significant religious event for the people of Champakulam & surrounding areas. The Church is beautifully decorated with colorful lights & flowers. Religious ceremonies, including Holy Mass & Processions, are held throughout the day. The highlight of the Festival is the grand procession, in which the Statue of St. Mary is carried on a beautifully decorated Chariot, accompanied by devotees singing hymns & prayers.

One of the main attractions of the Village is the famous annual Moolam Boat Race, held on Pampa on Moolam (the day of the installation of the deity at the Ambalappuzha Sree Krishna Temple), the oldest & most popular Vallam Kali (Snake Boat Race) in Kerala, that attracts many visitors to the Village.

Chundans (Snake Boats) were the Navy Boats of the erstwhile Chempakasserry Rulers. Now they are used for the Races, an internationally famous tourist event for the locals as well as foreigners.  Traditionally, each Boat belongs to a Village & the Residents worship that Boat like a deity. Only Men are allowed to touch the Boat & to show respect they should be barefooted. To make the Boat slippery while in the water, it is oiled with a mixture of fish oil, coconut shell carbon & eggs.

Constructed according to specifications taken from the Sthapathya Veda, an ancient Treatise for the building of wooden Boats, Champakulam Chundan has a length of 130 feet & breadth of 69 inches.

With a depth of 22 inches with the rear portion towering to a height of about 11 feet & a long tapering front portion, it resembles a Snake with its hood raised. Its Hull is built of planks precisely 83 feet in length & 6 inches wide. It can accommodate 105 Oarsmen. In the centre of the Chundan Vallom, which was earlier the point for placing the Canon, stand 2 people who beat the Odithatta (fire platforms) with Poles & sing the Vanchippattu (songs of the Boatmen) to maintain the rowing rhythm.

While the strongest Oarsmen sit at the front to set the pace, the back is managed by 6 equally hefty “standing” Amarackars (Helmsmen) who help steer the Boat. The person at the highest point of the Boat is the chief Oarsman. The Chundan can cover a distance of 1.4 km in about 5 minutes.

Champakulam Chundan is the winner of several Races including the premier Nehru Trophy Boat Race during 1989, 1990, 1991. In 2013, Chambakulam Boat Club sold the Champakulam Chundan to UST Global, a California-based IT Services Company, which has set up a UST Global Trivandrum Campus which is the new home for the Boat, while being prepared for the next Race. Repair work is done annually by the village Carpenter.

There are many other interesting sights in the vicinity like the Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple.

As you stroll along, you get the chance to see the Church & interact with School children, local small-scale Entrepreneurs & the local Artisans (open on weekdays) who skilfully & passionately carve Biblical heroes, out of wood.

Back on the Boat & continue cruising through the serene Canals to Changankari where the Boat will dock for the night.

Rest of the day free to relax on board

Reach the remote village Changankari by early evening, passing through the serene Canals.

Changankari Village is a part of Kuttanad region, home to extensive lush green Rice fields, divided by Dykes. A special peculiarity of this place is its Geography. It lies around 2 meters below the main sea level, making it the lowest altitude place in the country.

Dinner & Overnight on board.  B L D

Early morning, hop ashore & enjoy a leisurely walk in the laid-back Village.

After breakfast, we will continue sailing for the coastal village of Thottappalli, passing by the Spillway at the southern area of Kuttanad, which prevents the saline water at river mouth from flooding the low-lying paddy fields. Get to know about indigenous practices of paddy cultivation on reclaimed land at lower altitude than the Sea.

Watch a Presentation on board & engage in discussion about the Cultural Heritage of Kerala, as you pass by low-lying paddy fields & tiny Hamlets, you may see country boats loaded with Paddy or local produce or Farmers herding schools of Ducks, or local people criss-crossing by Canoes.

Reach Thottappalli where the Boat will dock for the night.

Thottappally village in Alappuzha district, is especially notable for Thottappally Spillway, a Barrage cum Bridge on River Nagavali, on the National Highway 66 between Alappuzha & Thiruvananthapuram. The Dam has a has a potential to provide irrigation to 1,20,000 acres. The current Barrage has a 2.51 Tmcft Storage capacity & consequently, the potential to irrigate an additional 56,000 acres. The Spillway prevents the saline sea water from flooding the low-lying Paddy fields during high tide & eases the flow of the flood water from the low-lying fields into the Sea. You will get to know about the indigenous practices of Paddy cultivation at lower altitude than the Sea.

Hop ashore & enjoy a leisurely walk in the laid-back village as you observe the serene rural landscape & local life.

Today, we have a special treat for you. To honour your participation in the Cruise, we are going to plant a Coconut Sapling, in your honour.  Participate in an informal impromptu ceremony.

Coconut tree is revered as the ‘Kalpavriksa’ or the divine tree of the State since all parts are useful to earn a livelihood. The Coconut Water is a healthy drink, the fresh Kernel & the Oil extract from dried Kernel are inevitable components of South Indian Cuisine, Fibre from the Husk is used to make Coir products, the Palm Fronds are used for thatching Roofs, the Wood suitable for making Furniture & all the dried parts leftovers of Coconut make good Firewood.

Last, but not the least, the Toddy - the boost for the labourers toiling in the fields. In Kerala, it is hard to miss the tiny rundown wooden shanties with a placard reading 'Toddy' tucked into corners encapsulated amidst the lush picturesque greenery. These Toddy Shops are local Wine stores of sorts & serve alcoholic & non-alcoholic versions of the Palm Sap.

There are multiple names for Toddy in Kerala - Palm Wine, Toddy & Kallu, which are in essence all products of different species of Palm trees like Palmyra, Coconut Palms etc. but many like to call it Coconut Vodka.

Toddy is undoubtedly a must-have beverage on your visit to Kerala. The refreshing, mildly alcoholic beverage is prepared by fermenting the Sap of Coconut or Palm flowers & it tastes best when stored in mud vessels & complements the spicy delicacies of the South.

Coconut refers not only to the fruit but includes the Palm & Seed too. In Kerala, roughly 50,000 people work in the industry, tapping an average of 300,000 liters per day. Well maintained Palm trees can produce 300 litres of Toddy per year & it is seen that as the Tree gets older, it produces more. The shelf life of the fermented delicacy - if unrefrigerated - of just 24 hours.

This Palm Sap derived from incising the clusters of Coconut can be served in 2 forms. The alcoholic version called Toddy in Kerala is mildly intoxicating & fans of sweet alcoholic beverages, are likely to love it.

The refreshing, mildly alcoholic beverage is prepared by fermenting the Sap of Coconut or Palm flowers & it tastes best when stored in mud vessels & certainly complements the spicy delicacies of the South. The non-alcoholic version called Neera is the unfermented Sap often called sweet Toddy & is derived from the immature inflorescence of Coconut.

The experience of watching the spectacular skills of a Toddy Tapper, is a treat. Only strong, courageous, flexible & sure-footed men qualify as Tappers. But why?

A Coconut tree is about 70 feet tall & the flowers are right at the top. A Tapper needs to climb all the way to the top & he does so in a matter of seconds with a piece of simple equipment tied around the waist. It is quite a thrilling sight to watch him climb the Tree. Sometimes, a Toddy Tapper ties ropes between 2 Trees & walks on the tightrope, going from one Treetop to another, just like the Acrobats in a Circus. Very dangerous & risky, certainly not for the faint hearted. But there are a few Masters who do it, in order to save time & energy, covering some 30 Tree tops before finally getting down.

Once at the top, the Tapper ties a Container to the flower stump & makes a small cut in the flowers. The Sap starts flowing into the Container & an average of 2 - 5 litres of Sap is extracted from a single Tree.  The fresh Sap called “Neeraa” is sweet, lukewarm & non-alcoholic which can be refrigerated & sold as a sweet drink.

But for Toddy to form, the Sap has to be fermented. Once the Sap is collected into the container, it starts fermenting very quickly because of the natural yeasts in the air & the sweet, slightly pungent Toddy with approx. 4% alcohol content, is formed in about 2 hours. The longer it is allowed to ferment, the stronger it becomes. But, more than a day, it turns sour & tastes like Vinegar. Some like it sour but most of the Toddy is sold, consumed or refrigerated, in time.

To really relish this iconic beverage in the perfect ambience, you need to visit a local Toddy Shop, a typical village-like atmosphere with an amazing opportunity to interact with the locals as you relish a glass of Toddy.

Balance of the day is at leisure to relax on the Boat.

After breakfast, hop ashore & board the Vehicle for a short drive (approx. 30 minutes) to visit a very unique ancient Temple.

Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Kshetram is an ancient Pilgrimage Center, situated in south-west Kerala. Of all the places of Serpent worship in the world. there is none that is more benign, awe-inspiring & legendary than Mannarasala, as blessed & envisaged by Lord Parasurama, the Creator of Kerala.

The famous Nagaraja Temple "Mannarasala" is nestled in a forest glade, like most Snake Temples & is the largest such Temple in Kerala & has over 30,000 images of Snakes along the Paths & among the trees. This is the only Temple in Kerala or even entire India, having female Priests. 

The ancient Temple is an internationally known centre of pilgrimage for the devotees of Serpent Gods (Nagaraja). Women seeking fertility come to worship here & upon the birth of their child come again to hold Thanksgiving ceremonies here, often bringing new Snake images as offerings. A special turmeric paste available at the Temple is credited with Curative powers.

According to mythology, the evolution of Mannarasala as the supreme place of worship of the Serpent Gods is associated with Parasurama, the son of Jamadagini & a descendant of Bhrigu. When he decided to seek atonement for the sin of killing the Kshatriyas, he approached the holy Rishis & they suggested that he should make a gift of land to the Brahmins. Parasurama propitiated Varuna Deva (the Lord of the Seas) to acquire some Land for himself. Varuna appeared & advised him to throw his Parasu (axe) into the sea to reclaim land. When he did that, a parcel of Land rose from the Sea & this he offered to the Brahmins.  This Land is believed to be the present-day Kerala.

In the beginning Kerala was not habitable because of the salinity. Not even vegetables grew there. People began to leave the place & Parasurama was pained at this. He undertook penance to please Lord Siva, who advised him that the objective could be realized only if the flaming poison of the Serpents was spread everywhere & that the only means of doing that, was the worship of Nagaraja.

Parasurama, a Yogi with a firm will & desire, decided that he would not rest until he saw Kerala come up as a land of evergreen beauty full of Trees & Plants, prosperous in every way. He set out with his disciples in search of a deserted jungle in order to please Nagaraja who was inaccessible to normal mortals. He found a suitable place near the seashore in the southern part of Kerala, constructed a Thirthasthala & commenced his Penance.

Nagaraja, pleased with the Penance, appeared before Parasurama & granted him his desire with great pleasure & ferocious Serpents arrived at the spot to spread the flaming Kalakuda poison. Because of the percolation of Poison, the land of Kerala was desalinated, became habitable with greenery.

Parasurama then requested Nagaraja to bless the land forever with his eternal presence & that wish was also accepted by the kindly-disposed God Nagaraja. At a very auspicious moment, Parasurama installed idols of Nagaraja, Vishnu & Siva in one in the 'Thirthasthala' (Hall of pilgrimage) surrounded by Mandara trees & the place came to be known as Mandarasala & the Serpents were happy.

Parasurama brought in learned people from other regions; also installed Durga & other deities in different places; appointed Brahmins who were Tantric Experts for performing Poojas; nominated Kshatriyas, Peasants & the Ashtavaidyas who were supreme among the Physicians.

Many generations ago, after Parasurama left for Mahendra mountains, a Brahmin couple Vasudeva & Sreedevi, were left to care for the Temple. It was about this time that a fire broke out around the dwelling place of Nagaraja & burnt down the jungle. The Serpents were tortured by the flames, forcing them to hide in their Pits with great difficulty. The Couple looked after the Serpents, who had their hoods charred, bodies half-burnt & barely crawling along.

They gently fanned them with fans made of sweet-scented grass & poured ghee mixed with honey & oil on the wounds; cooled their melted bodies with sandalwood ointment, comforted them & put them under the shade of Deodar & Banyan trees. They performed Purification Ceremonies & consecrated the Pits.

The beliefs & rituals associated with the Mannarasala Temple are different from other Temples & here the Pooja pattern is headed by a Brahmin lady. The chief Priestess is popularly referred as Valiya Amma. Being the heart & soul of Mannarasala, faithful devotees who come to seek the blessings of Nagaraja, wait patiently to have a glimpse of Valiya Amma & seek her blessings & advice to lead a prosperous life. The resplendent brightness of Valiya Amma who has turned into a symbol of Naga deities through fasting & performing Rituals & Poojas, sheds light on the Temple & endows it with heavenly glory.

Mannarasala Aayilyam is the main Temple Festival. On the day of Aayilyam asterism in the months of Kanni & Thulam (September & October), all the Serpent idols from the Grove & the Temple are taken in Procession to the Illam (Family connected with the Temple since inception) where the offerings of Nurum Palum (rice flour & milk), Kuruthi (a red liquid made of turmeric & lime) & cooked rice are made. The oldest female member of the Family carries the idol of the Nagaraja & the Procession is conducted with great pomp & rejoicing.

Walk inside to watch the ongoing Rituals. The cult of Snake worship in Kerala is closely interwoven with the life of the people & is a component of its rich cultural heritage.

Then, get on the Vehicle again & drive 45 minutes to see another unique ancient Village - Mannar, famous for its Craftsmen who work with Metal.

Situated on the banks of the captivating Pampa, Manimala & Acham Kovil River, this quaint Town was the scene of the renowned ‘Treaty of Munnar’ (Mannar Harmony Deed) that took place between Maharaja of Travancore Marthanda Varma & Kayamkulam King in 1742 which led to a friendly merger of both Kingdoms.

A quaint & surreal Mannar is also called the ‘Bell Metal Town of Kerala’. While the rest of the State is known for its natural beauty, Mannar is a bustling small industrial town, its Forges are famous for their beautiful creations in Brass, Bronze, Silver & other Metals. The magnificent Craftsmanship on display is in demand across the world. These handicrafts - ornate Locks, traditional Lamps, Bells & Cauldrons & various types of Vessels of different sizes & designs used locally in Temples & Homes.

There are hundreds of traditional 'ALAS' (Kilns or Furnaces) in Mannar & many small-scale manufacturing establishments engaged in this business, employing traditional workers, where prospective Buyers can visit, observe the making & then purchase the Artefacts produced.

The most important household Utensil they make are Kinnan (plates for taking foods like kanji & boiled rice), Nilavilakk, Urui, Chempi (for par boiling paddy), Kindi (a vessel for taking water for washing hands & feet).

The world’s biggest Church Lamp at Kuravilangad & the world’s largest Lamp at Chettikulangara Devi Temple, trace their origin to this tiny town in Alappuzha. From Temples in Shimla to the Cathedral in New Delhi, Artefacts from Mannar adorn them to this day.

One can visit these Forges to observe the Metal workers & Craftsmen at work & Visitors are encouraged to interact with the Artisans while witnessing their indigenous method of casting the Metalware. Fine Clay, which is easily available on the bank of the River & Rivulets flowing through the region, is being used for the lost-wax method of Casting of these Bell Metal products.

Mannar also has many unique religious sites.

One of the biggest Churches in India, the Parumala Church (St Peter's & St Paul's Orthodox Church) is very famous pilgrim centre as it holds the Tomb of St Gregorios of Parumala, who was the first declared Saint in India. The Feast of St Gregorios Parumala attracts pilgrims from across the world on 1^st November every year.

You may choose (if time permits) to visit one of the 7 Churches built by St. Thomas, the Apostle of Jesus Christ, who arrived in Kerala during 52 AD.

Parumala Valiya Panayannar Kavu Devi Temple is an ancient Hindu Temple dedicated to Sri Bhadrakali & Lord Shiva, situated on the banks of the Pampa River. It is 1 of the 3 most important Bhadrakali Temples in Kerala. The ancient Temple, worshipping "Saptha Matha", is famous for its Sarpa Kavu (sacred grove for Serpent Gods) & Mural paintings. The annual Vishnu Festival at Panayannar Kavu Temple is another colourful event & draws big crowds.

The Thrikkuratti Mahadeva Temple is a fine symbol of the communal bonhomie, drawing in people of all Faith, prevalent in the place. It is one of the 108 Sivalays built by Lord Parasurama & it is believed that the mammoth Temple compound wall was built by a troupe of Bhootas of Lord Paramasiva in a single night.

The Kerala architectural style of the Temple with antique wooden Carvings was widely featured in visual media, attracting lot of Art lovers including foreigners.

At a special Nada (gate) on the east side of the Temple wall, members of other Faiths, in particular Muslims, present Offerings on a daily basis. This practice is believed to be centuries old & is considered to be a true embodiment of multi-faith religious harmony. The West Nada (Parvathi Gate) is opened for 10 minutes only during Sivarathri Nritham while on all other days of the year, it remains closed.

The unique festivities (Sahasra Kalasam, Maikatti Puja & Sivarathri Nritham) here, attract many pilgrims. The annual Thrikkuratti Mahasivarathri Festival attracts 1,000s of devotees.

Return to the Boat in time for a hearty Lunch & sail to the quaint village Karumadi. Watch a Presentation & participate in a Lecture discussing the cultural heritage of Kerala & the advent of Buddhism in the State.

After a leisurely sail, arrive in a quaint village of Kurumadi, famous as a rare destination for Buddhists in Kerala, that presents a glimpse of the beauty of Kuttanad.

Buddhism prevailed in Kerala for around 8 centuries, from 3^rd AD onwards. Kurumadi is historically important as this is the only place in Kerala where remnants & relics of Buddhism can be found.

Hop ashore & embark on a ‘guided’ Walking Tour.  

Karumady is famous for Karumady Kuttan, the ancient remains of a black granite statue of Buddha, in a meditative & peaceful stance, a lone reminder of the fact that Buddhism once flourished in Kerala between 3^rd - 13^th century. Historians surmise that the Statue may have been set up during the period of 09^th - 14^th century, when Buddhism was at its peak. Karumadi was then known as Sreemoola Vasam, where the Monks propagated Buddhism.

Karumady today, is a renowned Buddhist Centre & Pilgrims from across the nation & even abroad come here to pay homage & seek blessings. Karumadi Kuttan literally means the ‘little black boy’ or the ‘boy from Karumady’. The 3 feet tall Buddha, seated in the Yogasana posture, is an icon that highlights the presence of the ancient religion of Asia here & is one of the main, very rare, archeological remains of the religion discovered in the State.

It lay abandoned for centuries, submerged in a nearby Stream named "Karumady Thodu" until it was discovered by Sir Robert Bristov, a colonial British Engineer in 1930, who built the Shrine to preserve the Relic.

The Statue is entirely damaged on its left side & is missing a Hand. Local lore says that the Statue was broken apart after an angry Elephant dashed against the Statue. This is a paradox to the frequently eulogized story about Buddha's birth. His mother Maya, dreamt of an Elephant before giving birth & considered it to be a good omen as Elephant is a symbol of greatness.

In recent years, a Villager supposedly found the missing “Hand” & the Officials decided to get the Experts to attach the Hand. However, some Historians protested as they wanted to check the authenticity. Consequently, the plan to attach was abandoned & a detailed Study to confirm, was ordered. The “Hand” is now under control of the Department of Archeology & is displayed at the Krishnapuram Palace Museum at Kayamkulam.

The Shrine, protected by a Pagoda that is believed to have been built by Dalai Lama during his visit 1965, facing Punnamada lake, is located about 5 km away from the Ambalappuzha Sree Krishna Swami Temple.

Walk around the small Shrine & in the vicinity where you get to interact with some Toddy Tappers & may be, watch them in action.

Come back to the Boat & watch a Presentation & engage in a lively discussion about the Cultural Heritage of Kerala, as you sail for Kanjippadom, where the Boat will moor for the night.

Cruising through expanses of low-lying lush green paddy fields, swaying Coconut trees, Banana Plantations & observing the laid-back rural life, is soothing & enthralling.

Passing through the serene green network of Rivers, Lakes, Lagoons, Hamlets, Canals & coastal Estuaries, you will see country Boats loaded with Paddy or local produce & Farmers herding schools of Ducks & locals criss-crossing by Canoes.  

Reach Kanjippadom & explore the Village as you walk around leisurely.

A beautiful area in Alappuzha District, Kanjippadom beckons tourists for its pristine beaches & untouched natural landscapes.

The Village is known for its Boat Yards & expert Carpenters building Kettuvallams (wooden Boats) using the traditional methods, followed for centuries.

You will also visit one of the Boat Building Yards to understand the traditional method of building wooden Kettuvalloms, by joining wooden planks using coir, cotton & natural resin.  

The River Boats of today are modified versions of the traditional Kettuvallom or Rice Barges which in past years, were used for transporting produce from Farms in the interior of Kerala to the Markets.

The wooden Hull of the Boat is fashioned by joining planks of local ‘Aanjili’ wood, using strong coir rope on the sections above the waterline while, below the waterline, copper tacks are used for added strength in keeping with traditional methods. The Wood is initially coated with caustic black Resin made by boiling Cashew kernel & Fish oil. During regular maintenance too, the Wood is periodically treated with Neem & Fish oil. The Interiors are designed using wooden panels, bamboo poles & wooden flooring & bamboo mats, following the traditional practices. It is interesting to see how the Coir rope tying process is used to lash the wooden planks of the Boats together.

From the outside, most Kettuvallom look similar. The design, decor, features inside & quality & power of the Engines etc are tailored according to the preference & the budget of the Client.

Interact with the Carpenters & learn about their Craft.

Return to the Boat & cruise around the Hamlets & see the Fishermen casting their Nets.

Tonight is the last night on board. Celebrate with a sumptuous Farewell Dinner.