Pathanamthitta The Pilgrimage Capital of Kerala

 

Tourist attractions in Pathanamthitta district

Pathanamthitta is a district located in the southern Indian state of Kerala. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty and religious significance. Located in the central part of Kerala, this district covers an area of about 2,638 sq km. Pathanamthitta is bordered by Alappuzha, Kottayam, Idukki and Kollam districts.

One of the striking features of Pathanamthitta is its beautiful landscape with the Western Ghats on one side and the low plains on the other. The district is adorned with lush greenery, innumerable rivers and beautiful waterfalls. The river Pampa, which originates in the Sabarimala hills and flows through Pathanamthitta, is of religious importance.

Pathanamthitta is known as the "Pilgrimage Capital of Kerala" due to its association with many important religious centers. Sabarimala, one of the most famous Hindu pilgrimage centers in India, is located in this district. Every year lakhs of devotees undertake the challenging pilgrimage to Ayyappan's hill shrine at Sabarimala.

Apart from Sabarimala, there are many ancient temples, mosques and mosques in Pathanamthitta. The district has a diverse religious composition, with Hinduism, Christianity and Islam being the major religions. Annual festivals and religious processions in Pathanamthitta attract a large number of devotees and tourists from different parts of the country.

Must Visit Places in Pathanamthitta

Pathanamthitta is also famous for its cultural heritage. The region is famous for classical dance forms like Kathakali and Mohiniyattam, as well as traditional music and arts. Various cultural festivals and events are held throughout the year in the district that showcase the warm traditions and customs of Kerala.

1. Sabarimala Temple:-

    Sabarimala is a famous Hindu pilgrimage site dedicated to Ayyappan. Nestled amidst the lush green Western Ghats, it attracts lakhs of devotees every year, especially during Mandala season (November to January). The temple is known for its rigorous rituals and the arduous journey that devotees undertake to reach the temple.

2. Peruntheruvi Falls:-

   Peruntheruvi Falls is a beautiful natural spring located on the banks of Pampa River. The waterfall gushes from a height of about 60 feet and creates an awe-inspiring sight. Tourists can enjoy the beauty of the waterfall, take a dip in the pool below and enjoy nature photography.

3. Gavi:-

   Gavi is a tranquil and untouched eco-tourism destination in the Western Ghats. Surrounded by dense forests, tea plantations and wildlife, Gavi offers an immersive experience in nature. Tourists can enjoy activities like trekking, bird watching, jeep safari and boating in the serene Gavi Lake.

4. Konni Elephant Training Centre:-

 Koni Elephant Training Center is a special attraction where elephants are trained using traditional methods. Visitors can watch the elephants being bathed, fed and trained. The center offers opportunities for elephant rides and interaction with these majestic creatures.

 

5. Parumala Church:-     

    Parumala Church known as St. Gregorius Orthodox Church is an important pilgrimage center for Christians. This is the final resting place of Parumala Saint Gregorios, a venerable member of the Malankara Orthodox Syriac Church. The architecture and serene atmosphere make the mosque a popular spiritual center.

6. Charalkunnu:-

   Charalkunn is a beautiful hill station blessed with natural beauty and pleasant climate. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys, forests and tea plantations. It also has facilities for adventure activities like children's park, open-air auditorium, hilltop rock climbing and mountaineering.

7. Pandalam/Palace:

   Pandalam is a historical city known for its cultural and religious significance. It is believed to be the birthplace of Ayyappan and the Pandalam palace is associated with the royal family associated with the deity. The city hosts the famous Pandalam Ayyappa Temple and the annual Pandalam Palace Pooram festival.

8. Maramon Convention:

   The Maramon Convention is an annual Christian gathering on the banks of the Pampan River. It is the largest Christian convention in Asia and attracts thousands of believers from various denominations. The program includes sermons, hymns and spiritual gatherings. 

9. Aranmula Parthasarathi Temple:

Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple, located at Aranmula in Pathanamthitta district of Kerala, is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Krishna as Parthasarathy (Arjuna's charioteer in the Mahabharata). Here are some details about the temple. 

10. Adavi-Kuttavanchi:

Adavi-Kuttavanchi is a scenic and picturesque region located in Konni, a small town in the Pathanamthitta district of Kerala, India. Adavi-Kuttavanchi is renowned for its lush rainforests, glistening rivers, and captivating wildlife. It offers visitors an opportunity to immerse themselves in the serene beauty of nature while exploring its numerous attractions.

These are the major tourist destinations of Pathanamthitta district and each offers a unique experience to the visitors.

Ernakulam The Commercial capital of Kerala

 

                   Ernakulam

Ernakulam district is a district in Kerala, Kerala. Located on the west coast of the state, it is one of the most densely populated districts in Kerala. Ernakulam is the commercial and industrial hub of Kerala and is also known as the commercial capital of the state. Here are some important features and information about Ernakulam district:

1. Geographical Location:- Ernakulam district is situated on the shores of the Arabian Sea and is bounded by Thrissur and Palakkad districts in the north, Idukki in the east, Alappuzha in the south and Lakshadweep sea in the west.

2. Administrative Divisions:- Ernakulam district is divided into two revenue divisions: Kochi and Moovatupuzha. The district headquarters is at Kakkanad, a suburb of Kochi.

3. Kochi (Cochin):- Kochi is the largest city and the main urban center of Ernakulam district. It is a bustling port city known for its cosmopolitan culture, historical significance and modern infrastructure. Kochi is famous for its attractions like Fort Kochi, Mattancherry Palace, Willingdon Island, Marine Drive and Chinese Fishing Nets.

4. Economy:- Ernakulam district is a major economic powerhouse of Kerala. The district is a hub for many industries such as manufacturing, information technology, tourism and trade. Cochin Refinery, Cochin Shipyard and various industrial estates contribute to the industrial development of the district.

5. Connectivity/Backwaters:- Ernakulam district is well connected by air, rail and road network. Cochin International Airport located in Nedumbassery is one of the busiest airports in India. The district has a well-developed road network and is well connected to major cities and towns in Kerala and neighboring states. The major railway stations in the district are Ernakulam Junction and Ernakulam Town Railway Station.

6. Tourist attractions:- Apart from the tourist attractions of Kochi, Ernakulam district offers many other attractions. Hill Palace Museum, Bolgatti Palace, Chotanikara Temple, Malayathur Church, the magnificent Athirapilli and Vazhachal Falls are some of the famous places in Tripunithura.

7. Culture and Festivals:- The district has a rich cultural heritage and is known for its vibrant festivals. An international contemporary art festival, the Kochi-Muziris Biennale attracts artists and art lovers from around the world. The district also celebrates traditional festivals like Onam, Vishu and Cochin Carnival with great enthusiasm.

8. Educational Institutions:- Ernakulam district has reputed educational institutions including Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT), Maharaja's College, St. Albert's College, Sacred Heart College and many other engineering and management institutes.

Ernakulam district combines the vibrancy of a modern commercial center with the charm of a historic city. It offers a blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty and economic opportunities, making it an important district in Kerala.

Here are 15 popular tourist places to visit in Ernakulam district, Kerala:

Ernakulam district in Kerala, India offers a number of tourist attractions that cater to diverse interests. Here are some popular tourist attractions in Ernakulam district:

1. Fort Kochi:- Fort Kochi is a historic neighborhood with a unique blend of Indian, Portuguese, Dutch and British influences. It is known for its colonial architecture, charming streets, Chinese fishing nets, St. Francis Church (the oldest European church in India), Santa Cruz Basilica and the Indo-Portuguese Museum.

2. Mattanchery:- Mattanchery, located near Fort Kochi, is another historic area known for its spice markets, antique shops and the legendary Mattanchery Palace (Dutch Palace). The palace has beautiful murals depicting scenes from the Ramayana.

3. Marine Drive:- Marine Drive is a beautiful promenade along the backwaters of Kochi. It offers stunning views of the sea, sunset and Kochi skyline. The area is popular for tourism, boating and indulging in local street food.

4. Hill PalaceMuseum:- Located in Tripunithura, Hill Palace Museum is the largest archaeological museum in Kerala. It showcases an extensive collection of artefacts, artifacts, royal heirlooms and exhibits that provide an insight into the region's rich history and culture.

5. Bolgatti Palaceand Island:- Located on Bolgatti Island, Bolgatti Palace is a heritage hotel from a beautiful mansion. It is surrounded by beautiful gardens and overlooks the backwaters. The island also has a golf course and is a quiet place to relax.

6. Kodanad ElephantTraining Centre:- Located on the banks of the Periyar River, Kodanad is an elephant training center and rescue centre. Visitors can see the elephants being fed, bathed and mounted. The center offers a unique opportunity to interact with these gentle giants.

7. Thattekad Bird Sanctuary:- Located about 50 km northeast of Kochi, Thattekad Bird Sanctuary is a bird lover's paradise. It is home to a variety of bird species including rare and endemic birds. Nature trails and boat rides allow visitors to explore the sanctuary and spot a variety of birds.

8. Cherai Beach:- Cherai Beach is a popular beach destination on the outskirts of Kochi. It offers stretches of golden sand, calm waters and spectacular views. Tourists can relax, indulge in water sports or enjoy delicious seafood at one of the beach shacks.

These are some of the many tourist attractions in Ernakulam district. The district also has other attractions like Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary, Wonderla Amusement Park, Jewish Synagogue and several temples and mosques. Exploring the district offers a mix of cultural, historical, scenic and natural experiences.