Arambol#Best#Beach#Pananjim#Goa#India

The Arambol Beach located 50 kms from Panaji is a pristine and secluded beach in the North Goa and can be approached by a winding road through the groove of cashew trees. The Arambol Beach extends over 16 km and consists of two beaches, more popular is the main beach (Harmal beach), the northernmost beach in Goa . The second, more picturesque beach lies beyond the rocky circlet and can only be reached on foot and is bordered by steep cliffs on both sides. The main beach is long stretch of curving sand is good for swimming. It is a place perfect for people looking for peace and tranquility. The cliffs near the beaches are popular for paragliding and dolphin watching boat trips. .

It is a rocky as well as sandy beach and has a fresh water lagoon which extends along the bottom of the valley into a thick jungle The lake is fed by boiling hot springs and is lined with sulphurous mud which people love applying on their body to do wonders to their skin. Arambol beach attracts travellers from all over the world. Laid-back by day and lively at night, Arambol is the capital of hippie culture in Goa.

The narrow road leading the beach (dubbed "Glastonbury Street") is stuffed full of boutiques selling a bizarre and wonderful array of clothing, musical instruments, gemstones, figurines, art, music, jewellery, lanterns, smoking paraphernalia and anything else that can possibly be shifted to the charas scented crowd that saunter through this Festival That Never Ends.

The narrow lane gives way to the beach, and as the sun begins to set the beach shacks put out their seafood platters as yoga students practice the sun salutation. A herd of cows meander single file along the shore, past fire jugglers and brightly dressed beach traders carrying home their fluttering sarongs. Incense and cooking season the air as the yellow moon rises.Arambol is the kind of place you can easily get stuck in, so keep your plans open as with a few hammocks and a quiet beach on the doorstep of your shack you'll soon gel with an amazing group of people and won't want to leave.

Arambol Beach Highlights

A slow walk along the shore at sunset, observing the people / animals / sea and sky.

Watching musicians play live at Loeki's Cafe, anything from Indian classical music to psychedelic sounds - open mike nights are popular and the place fills up fast.

Hire a scooter for the day to explore the surrounding countryside. It is especially beautiful early in the season when the plants and fields are a million shades of green.

Climb around Arambol's rocky headland to the north of the beach to take a dip in the sweet water lake at Palolem beach (also referred to as Kalacha). If you are feeling adventurous, continue north to the secluded Keri beach.

Pick up silver jewellery, Rajasthani art or party clothes on the narrow market path leading to the sea.

Find Arambol's hidden culinary gems, where you can eat some of the best Western and Indian food in Goa (see Eating below).

How to get there

Air : Goa's international airport, Dabolim, is 29 km from the capital Panaji. Indian Airlines has direct flights from Delhi, Mumbai and Chennai daily. 

Rail : Goa's two main stations are at Margao and Vasco da Gama. Vasco-da-Gama and Margoa are connected by train with Bangalore, Belgaum, Hospet and Hyderabad and via Miraj to Bombay, Delhi and Agra. 

Road: Goa is well connected by NH17A with Maharashtra and Karnataka state. There are regular bus services to Mumbai, Bangalore, Hampi and other destinations from the Kadamba bus stand at Panaji. There are buses available frequently from Panjim and Arambol every thirty minutes until noon.

If you are getting around Goa on a scooter as many visitors do, you will need to cross over the Chapora River bridge and then turn right at the T-Junction by the market and huge Banyan tree. Take a sharp left towards the coast and continue along the road towards Mandrem and Arambol. The left turn towards Arambol beach is before the market and petrol pump.

Frequent buses run the 32 km journey between Mapusa and Arambol (every 30 mins or so), just ask a driver at the main bus stand at Mapusa to point you to the right vehicle. A private minibus can be arranged from Panjim, which would shorten the Panjim-Arambol public route. Arambol's bus stop is on the main road, near the left-turn towards the school and St Carmel Church.

Taxis, rickshaws and bike taxis are easy to arrange in Goa, though prices in season can be high, especially for foreign tourists. Try negotiating with your driver, or asking a few people to find the best rate. Expect to pay several hundred rupees for a taxi between Mapusa and Arambol beach, less for a bike taxi or rickshaw. If you arrive at Margao train station, the pre-paid taxi booth is just outside the station. Other travellers may be glad to share the journey, taxis should carry four to five people. 

Eating

Just before you reach the sea on Glastonbury Street, look out for a pizza place called Fellini's. Their delicious wood fired pizzas, or authentic pasta dishes are well worth a taste, and the busy venue is a great place to people-watch.

Relax Inn is one of the many restaurants that open out on to the Arambol beach. These places serve freshly caught sea food, cocktails, Indian dishes and Western fare. If you are choosing fish, look for the freshest catches and try bartering a little on the price. Also on the beach (across the small stream) theGerman Bakery does good, healthy breakfasts and will fill your water bottle with purified water for free.

If you fancy some music while you eat, try Loeki's on a small lane just off Glastonbury Street (to the left if you face the sea). Further down the lane, The Mango Tree is also known for its live music. 

Accommodation

Most of the accommodation is basic, in simple houses in the woods behind the beach. Majority is empty huts but some have fully equipped kitchens and showers. There are restaurants, travel agencies (handling foreign exchange), Internet and other services along the road leading to the northern end of the beach and a few stores in the village. 

Sleeping

Arambol beach caters mainly for long-term budget travellers, so the accommodation is inexpensive and usually fairly basic.

Cock's Town has cheap, basic beach huts on offer right on the beach (south of the small stream). Bathrooms are not attatched, but lockers are available, and you can wake up and jump straight in the sea! Almost all of the sea front restaurants have some kind of accommodation, especially as you head south down the beach.

Tip: If you arrive with friends, try leaving your bags with one of the group and sending someone out to scout for a deal. View a few and negotiate on the price, since you will almost certainly be able to bring down the first offer. Stays of more than a couple of days should work in your favour when bargaining.

Taking a small track left just opposite and beyond the police station (before the main road through the village veers left) you will find several accommodation options where you will get a quieter stay away from the shops and bars. Of these, Ivon's, Ave Maria and God's Gift are definitely worth a try. 

Beside The Sea

Arambol beach merges seamlessly with Mandrem and Ashvem beach to the south. It is possible to walk the north Goa beaches from Keri beach at the northern tip of Goa, to Morjim beach where the wide Chapora river meets the sea. If you decide on this, take a few days, since walking in the heat of the sun is not advisable!

For Kerala's answer to Arambol, have a look at the quieter Varkala beach where a line of boutiques, restaurants and bars cling to a steep, laterite cliff that gives sweeping views of the sea. 

Marari Beach

Little known Marari Beach, not far from Alleppey in Kerala, is perfect for those people exploring the Kerala backwaters who feel like some time at the beach as well. This beach is quiet and undeveloped. The name Marari is shortened from from Mararikulam, a small and sleepy fisherman's village. 

Location 

Kerala, a short distance from Alleppey and 60 kilometers (37 miles) from Kochi. 

Getting There 

The nearest train station is in Alleppey. 

Alternatively, the nearest airport is in Kochi. A non-air conditioned taxi from the airport to Marari will cost around 1,500 rupees. Travel time is approximately one and a half hours. 

Weather and Climate 

The weather at Marari is warm and humid throughout the year. Rain is received from both the southwest and northeast monsoons, which produce intensely heavy downpours. 

 The rain is at its worst from June to July, and late October to December. Late December to March are the best months to visit, when the weather is dry and sunny every day. During April and May, the heat and humidity quickly builds, and summer temperatures reach 36 degrees Celsius (97 degrees Fahrenheit). 

What to Do 

Marari isn't a tourist beach but rather a peaceful place to relax and unwind. Those who visit Marari look forward to the slow pace of life, and soaking up the serenity and tranquility on the deserted sandy beaches. A number of interesting day trips are possible around the area. These include the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, traditional coir-making units, and the Kerala backwater canals. 

If you're there during August, you can also check out the Snake Boat Races. 

Where to Stay 

Accommodations at Marari beach consist mainly of resorts and home stays. The earth conscious Marari Beach Resort is a big draw card. This luxurious resort, inspired by local fishing villages, aims to capture the heart and soul of the beach. 

It's set on a sprawling property filled with coconut groves and lotus ponds, and amongst other things offers Ayurveda treatments and yoga classes on the beach. Rooms cost from $280 per night for a double. 

A Beach Symphony, which consists of four cottages on the beach, is a hidden gem. Price starts from $200 per night, plus tax. Another recommended option in the same price range is the boutique Marari Villas. There are only three villas on the property. 

Alternatively, if you're looking for something cheaper, Marari Dreamz is a traditional homestay with rooms priced around 3,000 rupees ($50) a night. 

Warning About Swimming at the Beach 

Unfortunately, it's been reported that Marari Beach is a popular location for fishermen to defecate at sunrise. Although the excrement gets washed away by the tide later in the morning, the bacterial content of the water is likely to be high. Thus, while the beach may look clean and unspoiled, this is actually deceptive. 

ॐ केउच्चारण से 11 शारीरिक लाभ

ॐ केउच्चारण से 11 शारीरिक लाभ:

ॐ , ओउम् तीन अक्षरों से बना है।

अ उ म् । अर्थात ॐ

 "अ" का अर्थ है उत्पन्न होना,

"उ" का तात्पर्य है उठना, उड़ना अर्थात् विकास,

"म" का मतलब है मौन हो जाना अर्थात् "ब्रह्मलीन" हो जाना।

 ॐ सम्पूर्ण ब्रह्माण्ड की उत्पत्ति और पूरी सृष्टि का द्योतक है।

ॐ का उच्चारण शारीरिक लाभ प्रदान करता है।

जानीए

ॐ कैसे है स्वास्थ्यवर्द्धक

और

अपनाएं आरोग्य के लिए ॐ के उच्चारण का मार्ग...

1. ॐ और थायराॅयडः-

ॐ का उच्‍चारण करने से गले में कंपन पैदा होती है जो थायरायड ग्रंथि पर सकारात्मक प्रभाव डालता है।

2. ॐ और घबराहटः-

अगर आपको घबराहट या अधीरता होती है तो ॐ के उच्चारण से उत्तम कुछ भी नहीं।

3. ॐ और तनावः-

यह शरीर के विषैले तत्त्वों को दूर करता है, अर्थात तनाव के कारण पैदा होने वाले द्रव्यों पर नियंत्रण करता है।

4. ॐ और खून का प्रवाहः-

यह हृदय और ख़ून के प्रवाह को संतुलित रखता है।

5. ॐ और पाचनः-

ॐ के उच्चारण से पाचन शक्ति तेज़ होती है।

6. ॐ लाए स्फूर्तिः-

इससे शरीर में फिर से युवावस्था वाली स्फूर्ति का संचार होता है।

7. ॐ और थकान:-

थकान से बचाने के लिए इससे उत्तम उपाय कुछ और नहीं।

8. ॐ और नींदः-

नींद न आने की समस्या इससे कुछ ही समय में दूर हो जाती है। रात को सोते समय नींद आने तक मन में इसको करने से निश्चिंत नींद आएगी।

9. ॐ और फेफड़े:-

कुछ विशेष प्राणायाम के साथ इसे करने से फेफड़ों में मज़बूती आती है।

10. ॐ और रीढ़ की हड्डी:-

ॐ के पहले शब्‍द का उच्‍चारण करने से कंपन पैदा होती है। इन कंपन से रीढ़ की हड्डी प्रभावित होती है और इसकी क्षमता बढ़ जाती है।

11. ॐ दूर करे तनावः-

ॐ का उच्चारण करने से पूरा शरीर तनाव-रहित हो जाता है।

आशा है आप अब कुछ समय जरुर ॐ का उच्चारण करेंगे।

साथ ही साथ इसे उन लोगों तक भी जरूर पहुंचायेगे जिनकी आपको फिक्र है

पहला सुख निरोगी काया

       ।। वेद भगवान ।।

#Ashvem #Beach located in #North #Goa#India

Ashvem located in North Goa on a virgin strip overlooking the tranquil Arabian Sea, is a feast for the eyes and taste-buds.Ashwem Beach, hidden away in 2 acres of lush palm grove, sheltered by the sand dunes and facing directly west. The beach is a long sandy crescent around the sapphire-blue sea, almost like a picture postcard come to life. Milky surf foaming along golden sands, graceful palm-trees swaying in the breeze. Ashvem is home to the trendiest clubs, hippest shacks and a buzzing nightlife with a fair share of nature’s bounty of dolphins and turtles. Ashvem is an easy drive from the Airport. 

Ashwem Beach is one of the most peaceful and least developed beaches in Goa and the sea is so warm you can walk straight in. From morning to late evening there are some excellent restaurants and cafés right nearby, including the truly excellent La Plage, which is 5 minutes walk from our beach gate. Here you can unwind in comfort and watch the local fishermen bring home their catch against a backdrop of beautiful sunsets.

MANDREM & SURROUNDS

Ashwem is part of the Mandrem area, comprised of several bustling, friendly, little villages. We have drivers available at all times to take guests wherever they wish to go; Anjuna, famed for its market, is 20 minutes away, and the thriving city of Mapusa is half an hour’s drive. Bike hire is also recommended and gives you the chance totrundle round the back lanes of Mandrem, see the incredible banyan tree, take in the temples and vivid colours and pause for fresh coconut water by the side of the paddy fields.

A 40-minute walk along the beach (or a 5 minute drive) will bring you to the backpacker and 60s hippy enclave of Arambol. Here you can enjoy shopping for all kinds of trinkets and gifts, clothing and jewellery. Arambol has a large selection of restaurants and bars including Fellini’s – for cheap but excellent pizza – and Double Dutch, which serves great homemade cakes. Arambol also plays host to many market stalls (great for souvenirs) as well as barbers shops and beauty salons, tattooists and healers of every kind.

How To Get There

The beach is located in the Pernem sub district of North Goa. Nearby beaches are Kerim, Arambol and Morjim, the area around Ashwem offers many beautiful landscapes, beaches and sights.

To get to Ashwem, follow the road to Pernem, turn left about 500 mts after the Chopdem Village Panchayat. Follow this road for about 2 kms and take another left, follow this road and it should lead you straight to the beach.

The Restaurants

Ashwem has quite a few restaurants along the roads that lead up to the beach. These range from Italian to Continental and everything in between. It isn’t just known for its posh food but also the food available in shacks. Shacks in Ashvem prepare some of the tastiest meals you’ve ever eaten, it cannot however be compared to a restaurant as they are two completely different experiences.

The Scenery

Ashvem has a beautiful scenery known for its rocks all around it carved by the shellfish. The view that the beach provides is one of the most beautiful sights ever seen. Ashwem isn’t very crowded which only adds to it beauty that would’ve been ruined amidst a large audience.

The Beach

The beach was known for having large groups of turtles coming up to the shores to lay their eggs. Tourists and foreigners would travel many miles to witness this sight. However this is currently on a decline due to pollution and other environmental hazards that are detrimental to their well being.

Things to do at Ashvem 

Take a bus or a taxi to the town Mapusa to see a real Indian market with food, clothes, spices etc. Walk along the beach for about 1-1½ hours up to Arambol Beach to watch the busy old hippie town and walk around the rocks to the little secluded beach. Try out the more upmarket restaurants La Plage and Gaia for some nice Indian and European meals.

For a completely different Goan experience, consider going into the forest for birdwatching with Backwoods. Backwoods is located close to the border with the neighbouring state Karnataka about a 2 hours drive from the city of Margaon. The friendly guys at Backwoods will arrange to pick you up right on the beach where you stay and take you by car to their beautiful camp in the forest. You should however have a minimum interest in bird watching to benefit from the 3 or 4 nights stay that they offer.

Hotels in Ashwem

It may be difficult to find a place to stay during the tourist season since there are a few hotels in Ashwem, you can rent out guest rooms from local residences.There are a number of places to stay on the quiet part of the beach referred to as ”Palm Grove” including Rococco, Meem's, Yab Yum, Babu Huts, and Yogagypsys. Rococco is an upmarket place that does not look like it's worth the money but then again I didn't see it from the inside. Meem's is a nice place with good food and friendly staff and standard bamboo huts including bathroom. The place I would recommend would definitely be Yogagypsys which has spacious huts, tippees and houses built into the rocks. It has excellent yoga classes morning and afternoon and serves a healthy and yummy breakfast. It does not have it's own restaurant but you can order from the Pagan Café next door. There are other hotels there too like Bens Inn Guest House, Aquatica, Casa Ashvem, Yoga Gypsys, Bed Rock Beach Huts and many others.

Restaurants in Ashwem

There are a few restaurants in Ashwen since the area isn’t that well known. A restaurant you should definitely visit in Ashwem would be the La Plage. There is also the hotel club at Ashvem, Bardo if you are looking for a mix of luxury, ease, revelry and traditional Goa magic.

Cafes and Beach Shacks in Ashwem

Ashwem has some of the best food and hangout spots Goa has to offer. The food here can be eaten in shacks on the beach or under umbrellas made of coconut leaves. Since Ashwem is a remote and isolated beach, the sea shore has few beach shacks.

Clubs and Bars in Ashwem

There aren’t many clubs in Ashvem but there are obviously a few, one would be Club Bardo, located exactly at Ashvem, this place has everything. A restaurant and a separate clubbing area. The best months to visit Goa would be December to February.

#Baga#Beach#Goa#India

The beach is named after the Baga Creek, which empties into the Arabian Sea at the north end of the beach .This is part of a 30 km stretch of beach coastline along the west coast of Goa that begins at Fort Aguada continues as Sinquerim Beach, then as Candolim Beach and merges into Calangute Beach and then to Baga beach and then Anjuna Beach and then to Vagator Beach finally ending at Chapora Beach and Fort.The Baga River flows down from one side offering a pleasant for children and those who love the water but can't risk the rip currents that swirl round the mouth, where the river and the sea meet and on the far right bank, tourists at Baga beach will see a group of black rocks against which the sea crashes.

As compared to Calangute Beach , it is more quieter and also more isolated. Its scenic beauty, with the creek, the Retreat House perched on the hill and the lack of local tourist buses all have contributed to its unique beauty. It is more popular with western tourists who love to use it as a base for water sports and fishing in the area Baga Beach may be touristy and busy but for those who like action, it’s one of the most happening beaches on the coast.Beach was clean and patrolled by police. The beach has many shacks, providing good music and food. Has many discos also You'll find everything from water sports to fine dining restaurants there, along with a pulsating nightlife . 

Location

Baga Beach is located in North Goa, 9 kilometers (6 miles) from Mapusa and 16 kilometers (10 miles) from Panaji, the state capital. It's bordered by Calangute Beach to the south, and Anjuna Beach to the north on the other side of the river.Baga Beach starts right where Calangute ends, although it's hard to pinpoint exactly where.

Climate and Weather

The weather at Baga is warm throughout the year. Temperatures rarely reach more than 33 degrees Celsius (91 degrees Fahrenheit) during the day or drop below 20 degrees Celsius (68 degrees Fahrenheit) at night. Some winter nights can get a bit chilly from December to February though. Baga receives rain from the southwest monsoon from June to August. The beach huts close during this time, although many nightspots remain open. The tourist season kicks off in late October, and starts slowing down around March.

How to Get There

For international travellers Goa's airport is siuated to the south, at Vasco da Gama, approximately one hour's drive away by taxi. The closest railway station is at Margao.

The closest railway station to Baga is Thivim. Expect to pay around $5 in a taxi to get to Baga from the railway station. Alternatively, Goa's Dabolim airport is located 50 kilometers (31 miles) away, and the fare in a pre-paid taxi is around $15.

Get around

Getting around Baga is very easy on foot but be careful of the chaotic traffic and wandering cows though. There is a wide range of taxis and rickshaws easily available. Buses to/from Calungute are Rs. 10.

What to See

Baga's attraction is in it's world famous beach. Interesting sights to visit close by include Portuguese forts at Aguada and Chapora. The world famous Anjuna beach flea market is great for a spot of haggling.

What to Do

Water sports are a huge attraction. You can go para sailing, wake boarding, windsurfing, kite surfing, or take a ride on a jet ski.

Dolphin spotting trips and island trips are other popular options. However, many people are simply content lazing on the sun lounges in front of the beach shacks all day and feasting on a steady supply of food, beer, and cocktails.Enjoy a relaxing day on the beach. Can get busy at weekends and holidays.

What to Buy

Mackie's Saturday Night Bazaar is located by the river in Baga. Mackies Saturday Night Bazaar is a great place for bargain hunting and music, whilst nearby Anjuna's world famous flea market is ceratinly worth a visit. The Wednesday flea market at Anjuna Beach and Saturday night market at Arpora are both close by as well, and will satisfy even the best shopaholic As well as the usual range of tourist souvenirs, there are many shops selling made to measure suits and clothing at a fraction of western prices. Many leather ware shops offering made to measure jackets and luggage also available. Glasses also very cheap at the opticians in the centre of the adjoing town of Calangute. 

Rama's Bookshop at the Calangute junction on the road leading off to Baga offers second-hand books in a dozen European languages. You even get fifty percent back on returning the read book.

Where to Eat

A wide range from budget options to a full multi-course feast. Many interesting and cheap places along the Baga Road leading to Calangute, together with some better quality establishments. Many shacks situated on the beach offering a good choice of reasonably priced food all day from breakfast to evening meals. Some also offer occaisonal barbeque nights with freshly caught seafood.

The Cavala Seaside Resort, Baga Road hosts a superb barbeque night with entertainment which is always popular.

J & A's Little Italy, across the Baga River along Baga Creek Road. Serving superb Italian food in a relaxing atmosphere.

Lario's Beach Shack, situated at the top end of the beach.

Brito's - Known for its mix meat platter, this place serves Continental cuisine. The desserts offered are quite good.

Casa Portuguese

La Resturaunt, Baga Road - French cuisine at its best.

Mooncrest - on the road to the beach.

Christie's Cafe La Musica - is a place to relax on Bean Bags & Futons drinking beer after a swim at the beach. The Thai Food and the late night barbeque for veggie and seafood lovers is its speciality.

Redonda, Baga Junction. Mind blowing food. A must visit if you fancy non-vegetarian fare. 

Cafe Lazydays, CSM Road. Excellent food and accomodation at great prices 

Danny's Grill Kebabs and Curries, On the banks of the Baga Creek, Danny's Restaurant has a menu ranging from breakfast classics to creative innovations. For breakfast, there are fresh fruit juices and a special breakfast. For lunch and dinner, there are savory pork chops, lobster tandoori, steak amorita with apricot sauce and for dessert, bebinca with ice cream. 

Drink

All the restaurants and beach shacks above offer a range of locally produced spirits and beers at reasonable cost. Popular local brands include Kings and Kingfisher lager.

Tito's Nightclub adjacent to the beach is an infamous nightspot. Established in 1971 by an expat, Titos has attracted the likes of the Beatles, Dire Straits, Pete Townsend, Matt Damon, Richard Gere, Salman Khan, Aishwarya Rai, Sanjay Dutt, Kate Moss and a host of celebs.

Club Cubana is inland from Baga beach in the Arpora Hills about 15-minute taxi ride from Baga. Swimming pools and dance music until the wee hours.

Where to Party

Baga is well known for its commercial nightlife, most of which can be found in and around Tito's Lane -- home to the infamous Club Tito and Cafe Mambo. Both hold regular events with interstate DJs. Many people don't think Tito's is worth the money though, despite the hype (expect to pay 2,000 rupees for single guys, and 1,500 rupees for a couple).

Cape Town Cafe is widely regarded as the best place to party on Tito's Lane. Also, head to hip Cocktails and Dreams to try an astonishing variety of cocktails and shooters, and be dazzled by barmen with impressive flame juggling skills. Guys will love the Sports Cafe. For those who prefer live music, Cavala caters to an older crowd and has retro performances on many nights of the week.

Sleep

Accommodation ranges from budget priced backpacker style rooms to hire. There is a range of mid range hotels around town together with larger establishments catering for the package tourist in outlying areas of Arpora and Calangute.

Hostel Joseph's Haven, . It's a small cozy hostel with nice garden and surrounded by lots of greenery, coconut trees etc. Air-con in dormitories. Breakfast not included. Kitchen for self cooking.Free Wi-Fi in hostel premises. Huge garden with hammocks and BBQ. Laundry facilities with nominal charges. You stay six nights, then the seventh night is free. Free parking facilities for two wheelers.

Lime Holidays, Serviced apartments in Goa, for safe and convenient stay, only a 4 minute walk from Calangute beach, in a 3 star resort with access to 2 swimming pools, restaurant & bar. Fully a/c non ac flexible check-in & check-out timings, extra mattress & kitchen facilities provided. 

Get out

Baga is a great place for visiting Goa's many attractions. There are numerous agents around town offering visits to Panaji (the capital city of the state); the second largest waterfalls in India; or to spend the night in a mud hut in the jungle and wash an elephant. Trips are available to secluded beaches (ask any taxi driver). Excursions lasting several days can also be arranged to out of state attractions such as Mumbai - the home of Bollywood; the Taj Mahal and Delhi

#Radhanagar#Beach at #Havelock #Island #Andaman and #Nicobar #Islands

With snow-white beaches, teal shallows, a coast crammed with beach huts and some of the best diving in South Asia, Havelock has a well-deserved reputation as a backpacker paradise. For many, Havelock is the Andamans, and it’s what lures most tourists across the Bay of Bengal, many of whom are content to stay here for the entirety of their trip Havelock Island (Hindi: हैवलॉक द्वीप, Malayalam: ഹെയ്വ്ലോക് ദ്വീപുകള്‍), with an area of 113.93 km2, is the largest of the islands that comprise Ritchie's Archipelago, a chain of islands to the east of Great Andaman in the Andaman Islands. Havelock is situated 57 km north east of the capital city Port Blair. Each beach at Havelock Island is commonly referred to by a number and you'll find most Havelock Island hotels grouped along the stretch of road from beach three to beach five. On the west side, pristine beach seven (also known as Radhanagar Beach) was once voted the "best beach in Asia" by TIME magazine. Beach five has brilliant sunrises, while beach seven has spectacular sunsets. Beach five (also known as Vijaynagar Beach), on the eastern side of the Island, is the the most developed.

Radhanagar information

This beach is Andaman’s prideful possession and at the very sight of it, everyone exclaims ‘what a beauty!’One of India’s prettiest and most famous stretches of sand is the critically acclaimed Radhanagar. It’s a beautiful curve of sugar fronted by perfectly spiraled waves, all backed by native forest. It’s on the northwestern side of the island, about 12 km from the jetty.When you visit this beach you can immediately realize why its called the No.1 beach in Asia. The beach is very very clean. White sand that will make you stay on it for long.A beautiful view of the sunset can be seen from here.

Late afternoon is the best time to visit to avoid the heat and crowds, as well as for its sunset. The further you walk from the main entry the more privacy you’ll get.The sand slips right under your feet with every wave and the waves here really hit and make u fall but that fun! We made a sort of human chain in water and waited for the wave just to get knocked off, fall and laugh at each other! It was a lot of fun. Not many people around. Clean water but the waves are too much so not fit for swimming. Should definitely go here!. After sunset, it is not advisable to go inside the water as the intensity of waves increases and it gets a little dangerous to stay in water post sunset. But in the day time, one must visit this nature’s gift to our beloved country and our sacred islands!

 Quick Tips:

1. 12 kms from the Jetty (place to get in and out of Havelock)

2. Awesome sand, clean waters and beach is flat - so you can go much deeper inside (compared to other beaches)

3. Look for hotel near Radhanagar beach - will be far off from Jetty but would be worth it.

4. Nice facilities: Lockers, showers, changing, wash rooms

5. Has places to eat: snacks, fruits, coconut water

6. Nice shops to take your souvenir. 

Access 

To reach various islands, one needs to travel from one island to the other. The main islands that travelers visit apart from Port Blair are Havelock Island and Neil Island. To reach these islands, Government-operated ferries and Private cruises are available

How to reach Radhanagar Beach, Havelock Island: 

Ferries are the major way on or off the island. 2-3 arrive daily from Port Blair (2-4 hours) and one from Rangat, one of which comes viaNeil Island. Schedules vary according to day and season, so enquiry locally, and see Andaman and Nicobar Islands about the differences between the ship types. 

Government-operated ferries are best booked in advance, as seats often sell out. Rates are 250 for "Chair" class and 350-390 for "Seat" Class. These ferries are AC and can be booked in advance from the counter at the DSS in port Blair. Online booking for government ferry  is allowed by some private agencies. They book the ferry in advance with some extra charges for the service. 

In busy seasons, local ferries can get booked up. You can buy tickets yourself from the Port Blair ferry office on arrival, or resorts will often offer to pre-book your tickets for the journey there and back, which you can either pick up from a travel agency on Port Blair, . This is a good idea particularly if you're trying to make it from your flight to your resort on the same day, as the schedules don't leave much room for error. 

Alternately, there is also an air-conditioned catamaran ferry from Port Blair to Havelock. Tickets are 975 onwards (which gets you a leather seat and your own tv). As the ferry is more expensive it is less likely to be full, and its schedule meets incoming flights. Tickets can be booked from a dedicated ticket booking window at Port Blair, Some of the shops in the market also book the tickets on these cruises at same price . 

3 Cruises are currently operating in Andaman Islands, connecting Port Blair, Havelock and Neil Island. These cruises adds more comfort to your journey and takes 90 minutes to reach Havelock Island and 60 Minutes to reach Neil Island. Makruzz, Coastal Cruise  and Express Bhagya are the cruises that operates in this region. 

Flight times from Port Blair to mainland India sometimes are changed without warning - including being brought forward. So it's definitely worth calling the day before to confirm your onward flights. Also be prepared to stay couple of days more than planned in Havelock because the boats to Port Blair will be cancelled if the weather is bad. 

The other option is to fly in. Pawan Hans (+91-3192-233601), which until 2011 operated sporadic helicopter flights to Havelock, now flies an amphibious 8-seater Cessna seaplane from Port Blair to Havelock and back every day except Sunday, covering the distance in about an hour. The standard price is a steep 4100 rupees one-way, but discounts may be available. The sailing of these flights depends on weather conditions. Sea Planes does not operate during off season as well. Sea Plane booking inquiry can be done at Andaman tourism website at  .

Get around

· Walking is the most common form of transport.

· Local buses and shared jeeps ply the 2 main roads between the port (on Beach #1), Radhanagar Beach (Beach #7), and Beach #5 where the bulk of the accommodation is located. There is a local bus for Radhanagar waiting at beach #1 at around the time the ferry (10-10:30AM) arrives.The journey from Beach #1 to Radhanagar is around 30-45 minutes.

· Auto-rickshaws are also available. Fares are more or less standardized: from Beach #5 resorts to the market costs Rs.20, from Beach #1 (the port) to Beach #5 Rs 50, and a return trip from the market to Radhanagar Beach (with waiting time) is Rs. 300. You can usually flag them down on one of the main roads, or at the market.

· Bicycles, scooters and motorcycles are available for hire near the center of 'town' (Beach #3), or inquire at your guesthouse. As of 2015, geared motorcycles are available for Rs 500/day and gearless scooters (Honda Activa etc.) for Rs 400/day. If you intend to hire for more than one day, then bargaining can bring down the price further. Petrol is available at some of the shops in the market or look out for boards that say "Petrol Pump". It's available for approximately Rs. 100 per liter, and can go up to Rs. 120 per liter at some shops.

· Private taxi operators A/c and non-a/c taxis are available for hire through your resort or travel agent. However these are pricey and non-reliable. A/c taxis charge around Rs 1,500 for a full day (eight hours) but the eight hours exists in theory. They will drop you off at your destination and disappear. For the return trip, you either have to pre-fix a pick-up time with them or give them a call on their cell phones. You may be better off hiring a scooter or motorcycle for the day.

 What to See

Jumbo stroke Enjoy swimming

· Radhanagar Beach (Beach #7) is the most beautiful on the island and was rated as the best in Asia by Time in 2004. Gorgeous, silky white sand backed by a forest that provides welcome shade looks out over turquoise water, some stretches with a sandy bottom good for swimming and some with excellent coral reefs that are great for snorkeling – a great combination indeed. Sunsets here are often spectacular and it's a popular time to be at the beach, but be careful not to miss the last trucks back if you're not staying here. A man with an elephant walks through the forest occasionally, offering rides for a fee. Buses run throughout the day until sunset, as do auto-rickshaws and shared 4 wheel-drive trucks. There are a few food shacks where the road hits the beach, all of which rent snorkels and fins. Also if you walk all the way on the right side of the beach, there is a lagoon also called Blue Lagoon. Very less crowded and beautiful. Although it is not as shallow as the main beach but definitely worth beating the crowd for some quite time. The other way to reach would be to take your bike all the way in the forest pass Barefoot and walk a little. As soon as you cross the big rocks, the lagoon is there.

Snorkeling

Snorkeling is also popular, with several options.

· Radhanagar Beach (Beach #7) has a couple of food shacks at the end of the road that rent out fins and masks for Rs 50/each. There are great reefs for snorkeling in both directions from the end of the road.

· Dive shops can also take along snorkelers to some of the off-shore sites.

· Local fishermen offer day trips and half day trips to different locations. South Button Island is particularly good as the reef is shallow, colorful and beautiful. It makes sense to get a group of 5-10 people together to share the cost of the boat.

· Near Havelock Jetty, opposite reservation counter there is a small lane which goes along side the beach. Keep going on that road and you‘ll reach some boats parked at the shore. They can take you for snorkeling at Lighthouse and Elephant Beach. Corals out there are worth watching. They charge 2000/- for a couple for Speed boat transfer + Snorkel.

Game Fishing

Game fishing is another popular activity famous in Havelock Island. Even if you are not going for fishing trip then these boats can be hired for sightseeing around havelock island. Fishing boats are available on hire to visit uninhabited islands such as Peel Island, Wilson Island, South button, Inglis Island and John Lawrence. Fishing trips organizers are Experience Andamans, World Sport Fishing  and Andaman Sea Fishing.

 What to Buy

Govind Nagar has a few basic shops selling daily essentials plus a small pharmacy. If you pick up one of the ubiquitous Andaman & Nicobar T-shirts sold everywhere for Rs.50, take one with black printing, as white text bleeds off the first time you wash it.

There is a recently opened Axis Bank ATM near the Market place.

Eat 

Some food is grown on the island (like tasty bananas), but most vegetables and fruits are imported. The best thing to eat is the locally caught fresh seafood.

Budget

· Dhabas near the junction at Beach #3 serve seafood and basic local Indian food, and are the cheapest way to eat on the island. There are also snack stands near here selling samosas, sweets and the like. More dhabas can be found near Radhanagar Beach (Beach #7), serving fresh sea food at reasonable prices; you may have to wait up to an hour for the food out here.

There is a very good dhaba named 'Welcome Restaurant' serving decent veg and non veg dishes at very reasonable rates at the Govind Nagar intersection. It is patronized by mostly foreigners. It serves good continental dishes and lovely pancakes. The place is very clean and prepares everything fresh, hence it may take time to deliver your order.

Drink

· Beer is available at most of the resorts and at the "English Beer & Wine Shop" near the SBI ATM on village 2 (it's open to all, not just Brits.). Wild Orchid,Symphony Palms offers various brand of beers like Kingfisher ,Foster etc at the cheapest price

· Alcohol all types of alcohol is available at the bar in the The Wild Orchid Resort and other bars.

· Fresh coconuts are available around the island - after you drink the juice they'll be happy to whack it open so you can eat the flesh too.

Stay safe

Mosquitoes are a nuisance, particularly at dusk and after rain, and the Andaman Islands are malarial. Use mosquito repellent, wear long sleeves and long trousers in the evening, and sleep under a mosquito net.

Sandflies make a great problem while sunbathing. Occasionally they are in a larger number, so longer shirts and trousers will be recommended.

Wild dogs can be a problem, especially along the beach at night – people are regularly bitten. You'd be well-advised to carry a stick to scare them off... or a handful of stones. Local authorities confirmed that they are helpless with this problem of stray dogs that live in forest but close enough to beaches visited by tourists.

If you plan to be out until sunset or beyond it's a good idea to carry a flashlight (torch). It can get pretty dark, especially if there's no moon out, and the beaches are often backed by dense forest.

Beware of currents at Radhanagar Beach during monsoon (June - Sept). There have been two recorded accidents as people have been caught out by powerful waves during the monsoon months. Supposedly the authorities have taken action to employ trained lifeguards and put up watchtowers.

Beware of jagged edges of bleached coral at Beaches #2, #3 and #5 as the shallow beachfront waters on the northern coast of Havelock (the backpacker strip) is covered with this.

Beware of Saltwater Crocodiles from the sanctuary on neighboring islands. A woman was killed in May 2010 while snorkeling.

#Kovalam#Best#Beach#Kerala#India

Fringed by headlands that rise steeply above the shore, Kovalam is almost completely covered by coconut palms. Of the three small bays separated by rocky outcrops, the southernmost, known as the Lighthouse Beach, is the most popular. The lovely old lighthouse that gives the beach its name is the Vizhinjam Lighthouse. Edakallu, a rocky headland separates Eve’s or Howah Beach from the Lighthouse Beach. The hill that separates Howah Beach from the third of Kovalam’s celebrated beaches houses the Government Guest House and the Halcyon Castle, a palace.

Kovalam is an internationally renowned beach with three adjacent crescent beaches. It has been a favourite haunt of tourists, especially Europeans, since the 1930s. A massive rocky promontory on the beach has created a beautiful bay of calm waters ideal for sea bathing.

The leisure options at this beach are plenty and diverse. Sunbathing, swimming, herbal body toning massages, special cultural programmes and catamaran cruising are some of them. The tropical sun acts so fast that one can see the faint blush of coppery tan on the skin in a matter of minutes. Life on the beach begins late in the day and carries on well into the night. The beach complex includes a string of budget cottages, Ayurvedic health resorts, convention facilities, shopping zones, swimming pools, Yoga and Ayurvedic massage centres.

Accommodation facility for tourists at Kovalam ranges from five star hotels to budget hotels and the choice of food is available at restaurants and cafeteria ranges from Continental varieties to South Indian tastes. 

Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala, is just 16 km away from Kovalam and getting there is no hassle. But if you are on holiday it is better to stay in Kovalam and visit the city. 

Kovalam beach is Kerala's most famous beach town. Unlike quieter Varkala, it's well and truly been discovered and developed. It's brash and at odds with the rest of Kerala. The action congregates around two main beaches -- Hawa (also called Eve's beach) and Lighthouse (the biggest and busiest of the two) -- with a walkway along the seafront. Samudra beach is separated by a large promontory, and is relatively free of tourists.

Access Information

Nearest Airport -Trivandrum (11kms), Tuticorin (190kms), Cochin (Ernakulam) (225kms)

Nearest Railway Station - Trivandrum(11kms), Varkala(55kms), Kollam(70kms)
Kovalam is an Ex-Trivandrum / Ex-Kollam / Ex-Kottayam / Ex-Cochin (Ernakulam) / Ex-Madurai / Ex-Trichur Getaway

Location

Lattitude:8.402074, Longitude: 76.978426

Reasons To Visit

Kovalam is "small goa" of South India. Kovalam is one of the few developed beach retreats in India alongside Goa.

Kovalam has a Goa-like feel with beaches suitable for swimming and a lot of beachside resorts that offer nice Arabian sea views (Unlike Goa).

Kovalam gets a a lot of organised charter tour operators from all over the world who get guests here for stays of 1 week multiples (Upto 4 weeks).

Samudra, Hawa, Lighthouse, Chowara and Mulloor are different beaches of Kovalam area. Chowara and Mulloor are more idyllic, Hawa and Lighthouse is more touristy. Samudra beach is where two major resorts are located.

Poovar lies at an extreme end of Kovalam and is treated as a backwater / island like destination

Guests to Kovalam do day visits to Kanyakumari, nearby plantation highlands and Neyyar wildlife sanctuary.

Recommendations 

Niraamaya Retreats

1. Niraamaya Retreats Surya Samudra

If you're looking for luxury in Kovalam, the boutique Surya Samudra is the most indulgent property you'll find. Set on 20 acres of landscaped grounds atop a cliff, it has 31 heritage cottages (think terracotta roofs, wooden pillars, and tiled floors), a renowned Ayurvedic spa, two restaurants, and stunning infinity pool. The cottages, which come with open-air bathrooms, are very private and there's plenty of space to spread out. The sea facing ones are particularly captivating. Rates start from around 8,000 rupees per night, plus tax, for a garden view cottage during the monsoon season. This increases to around 15,000 rupees, plus tax, during peak season. 

The Leela.

2. The Leela

The very popular Leela is looking a bit tired these days but the atmosphere and views are magical, making this hotel very high on romance. The hotel is located on the side of a cliff overlooking the ocean and has its own private beach. It's a substantial property with 183 rooms. The beach view rooms have their own sun deck, while the peaceful garden view rooms are located in a coconut grove right near the water. There's a stunning infinity swimming pool as well. Enticing monsoon discounts are available and it's possible to pick up a room for around 7,100 rupees per night, plus tax. Otherwise, rates go up to 15,000 rupees for a double room plus tax, depending on the time of year. 

Taj Hotels.

3. Taj Vivanta

The popular Taj Green Cove hotel is now known as the Taj Vivanta. Although it still has the same lush hillside location near Samudra beach, it wears a revitalized new look. The hotel is quite intimate and only has 59 cottages spread over 10 acres. It's peaceful and relaxing. A highlight is the hotel's beach-side restaurant called Bait, which serves up fresh seafood. However, the hotel isn't a beach resort. The ocean is around a 10 minute walk away, and the beach is submerged from March to November, so most guests prefer to relax by the infinity pool amongst nature. The Taj Vivanta is slightly less costly than the Leela. Expect to pay 6,500 rupees plus tax for a double room during the monsoon season. Otherwise, rates go up to 13,000 rupees a night, plus tax. 

Turtle on the Beach

4. Turtle on the Beach

A luxurious beach resort, Turtle on the Beach faces Hawa beach (Eve's beach). It has a Zen feel, with large Buddha statue and lounge that overlooks the sea from a height. There are 44 rooms and suites spread over six categories. The 2,480 square foot Sky Suite has a private terrace with outstanding views and a Jacuzzi. There's also an Ayurvedic spa on the premises, along with swimming pool and health club. Expect to pay around 5,400 rupees plus tax during the monsoon season, increasing to 7,500 rupees plus tax in peak season, for a double room. 

Hotel Samudra. Kerala Tourism Development Corporation

5. Hotel Samudra KTDC

This mid-range, value for money resort is owned by the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation. It's located next to the Taj Vivanta at quieter Samudra beach. Unlike many state government-owned properties in India, it's well maintained and well operated. There are 64 rooms, a swimming pool, a fitness center, plus some magnificent views. Rates start from around 4,000 rupees per night. 

Hotel Sea Rock

6. Hotel Sea Rock

The best thing about Hotel Sea Rock is its fabulous, convenient location on Hawa beach. The hotel has a terrace restaurant overlooking the ocean, and airy sea facing rooms with balconies. Note that there's no elevator though, and food in the restaurant is quite expensive. Expect to pay 2,500- 5,000 rupees per night. 

The Beach Hotel

7. The Beach Hotel

The funky and fashionable Beach Hotel has two locations a few minutes walk apart on Lighthouse Beach. The rooms at both places are sea facing, and are clean and airy, with private balconies or verandahs. Beach Hotel I, the older of the properties, is decorated in earthy tones. It has a German bakery, restaurant, and bookshop. Beach Hotel II is more modern and bright, and in a quieter location at the far end of the beach. Five of its 10 rooms have air conditioning. There's also a fusion cuisine restaurant and coffee bar. Rates vary depending on the property, room, and time of year. Expect to pay around 2,500 rupees upwards for double, per night. 

Sea Flower Beach Resort

8. Sea Flower Beach Resort

Sea Flower Beach Resort is an old favorite on Lighthouse Beach. Its 14 plain rooms are simply furnished and spread over three floors. The top floor rooms all have private sea facing balconies, while the balconies on the middle floor are shared. The views are outstanding and staff friendly! Rates for ground floor rooms range from 600-900 rupees per night, depending on the time of year. Rates for the other rooms range from 1,150-3,000 rupees per night, depending on the time of year and whether the room is air conditioned. The air conditioned rooms are on the top floor. 

Staywell Beach Resort

9. Staywell Beach Resort

A resort it is not, but rather a small and inviting blue family-run guest house situated next to Beach Hotel II on Lighthouse beach. It has six rooms, most with private balconies, and one with private kitchen. Ayurvedic treatments are provided on the premises by a qualified Ayurvedic doctor, and yoga sessions are held on the rooftop. Rooms are basic but clean. Expect to pay 600-1,000 rupees per night for a room. 

Vedanta Wake Up!

10. Vedanta Wake Up! by Lighthouse Beach

Vedanta Wake Up! is one of the most popular chains of backpacker hostels in India. The property is located in a quiet area surrounded by coconut trees, a couple of minutes walk from the beach. It features garden, free wireless Internet, and restaurant. The staff are polite and friendly, and the service is great. There are 17 large air-conditioned rooms with balconies. Expect to pay 599 rupees for a bed in mixed-dorm and 2,400 rupees for a private room, including tax. 

Things to Do in Kovalam

Lighthouse Beach Overview

The shining star of Kovalam, the Lighthouse Beach is a magnificent mix of gleaming sand, rocking waves, swaying palm fringes and blue aquamarine waters. 

The most frequently visited beach in Kovalam, the Lighthouse beach got its name from the old Vizhinjam lighthouse, which stands tall on a rocky headland. Long walks by the coastline, sunbathing, surfing, beach volleyball and swimming are some of the activities that can be enjoyed at the beach. 

Exquisite sea food is also available at the stalls lining the shore. Ayurvedic massages and beachside spas are a hit with tourists frequenting the Lighthouse beach.

Veli Tourist Village Overview

The Veli Tourist Village is a popular picnic spot and the number of tourists that throng this place bear a testimony to its charm. Children are especially fond of the place as it gives a free reign to their playful spirit. 

Ferry rides are quite popular among the children. Located in close proximity to the airport, Veli Tourist Village offers pedal boats, rowboats and motored boats for thrilling water sport activities.

Opening Closing Time8 am to 6 pm

For Kids

Kids will love this place for the ferry rides and other fun activities they can indulge in.

Entrance FeeSafari boat: Rs. 15 per person

Speedboat: Rs. 150 per person

Pedalboat: 4 seater - Rs. 50 for half an hour; 2 seater - Rs. 40 for half an hour

Vellayani Lake Overview

The Vellayani Lake is one of the famous fresh water lakes in Kerala and is located seven kilometers from Kovalam. 

The Vellayani Lake is the venue of the world famous annual snake boat race organized during the Onam festival. A must visit when in Kovalam.

Opening Closing Time9 am to 8 pm

Entrance FeeFree Entry

Vizhinjam Rock Cut Cave Temple Overview

Unique and an elaborate display of uninhibited talent, the Vizhinjam Rock Cut Cave Temple houses rock cut sculptures dating back to the 18th century. Although unfinished (perhaps that is the real charm!), the statues of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathi are the major attractions here.

Opening Closing TimeTuesday to Sunday - 9 am to 6 pm

Entrance FeeFree Entry

Artificial Off-Shore Coral Reef Overview

The artificial coral reef at Kovalam is India’s first off-shore coral reef. The Government of Kerala in association with the Department of Harbor Engineering launched this project with the aim of protecting and enhancing the ecology at the Lighthouse beach. 

The introduction of surfing at the reef has also boosted tourism in the area. Designed to protect the beach from erosions, this man-made reef is made up of materials that help in improving the marine habitat and fishing.

Entrance FeeFree Entry

Hawa Beach Overview

The Hawa beach has an interesting story behind its name. Sometime back, this beach was frequented by topless European women looking to get a perfect tan and thus originated the name Hawa beach. However, at present, topless bathing is banned here, as it is on beaches elsewhere in India.

Entrance FeeFree Entry

Hawa Beach or Eve's Beach Overview

"Hawa Beach is one of the three beaches that together form the crescent of the Kovalam Beach. This beach is endearingly known as the Eve's Beach, presumably because of its beautiful surroundings. It is a heaven for those who are looking for peace and relaxation. The calmness and tranquillity of this beach makes it an ideal place to get some moments of relaxation away from the humdrum of the city life. 

What adds to the appeal of this beach are several coconut trees along the shore and the Arabian Sea that looks amazing. You can enjoy a walk by the shoreline, go swimming or just laze around and sunbathe. Besides, there are a number of eating joints here, where you can savour local delicacies. Also, sometimes, local fishermen offer sunrise and sunset cruises in their small fishing boats."

Photo Opp

There is not a better place than a beach to get some beautiful pictures. Photography at a beach is truly a fantastic experience for any photo enthusiast. The best time to capture the beauty of the beach is during sunrise/sunset.

Karamana River Overview

Originating from the southern tip of the Western Ghats, Karamana River flows through the city of Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala. The river is called so because it flows through a small suburb called Karamana. Tourists can enjoy boating on the lake, which is dotted with expansive green patches of tropical plants on its banks. Located on the riverbank is the Thiruvallam Boat Club that offers kayaking, houseboat cruises and canoe rides.

Photo Opp

Do not forget to carry your camera before commencing the boat ride. The bewitching views of the backwaters and greenery throughout the ride are worth capturing in your camera.

Vellayani Lake Overview

"Located about 7 km away from Kovalam, Vellayani Lake is one of the popular freshwater lakes in Kerala. Here tourists can enjoy the beauty of this picturesque lake as well as go on a boat ride. Being home to a variety of flora and fauna, the lake is known for its unique ecosystem. 

There are many interesting stories associated with the origin of this lake. As per a popular legend, once a beggar who was searching for drinking water visited a saint while he was meditating. When the saint found out that his vessel was nearly empty, he took the last few drops from the pot into his palm and threw them as far as he could, saying a small prayer. Interestingly, the area of the land till where the drops fell gradually turned into a big lake, which is today known as Vellayani. The lake also serves as the venue for the world famous annual boat race that is organised during the festival of Onam. "

Photo Opp

Even if you are not a photo enthusiast, the beauty of this lake will compel you to take pictures. Photographs clicked here will remind you of the amazing journey and experience you had during the boat ride in the lake.

Neyyar Dam Overview

The Neyyar Dam, located about 32 km away from Thiruvananthapuram, is a popular picnic spot featuring a beautiful lake. The place is particularly famous for some of the rarest medicinal herbs. Boating is the ideal way to explore the beauty of the surroundings. The area circumscribing the Neyyar Dam also houses the Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Dhanwanthari Ashram, which is a heaven for peace lovers. Here, visitors can learn and practice Yoga and relax amid natural surroundings. The green coconut groves and serene environment make for a nice escape from the hustle-bustle of a city.

Photo Opp

You will get ample opportunities to click some great pictures at the Neyyar Dam. Take pictures of the dam, lake and your loved ones while enjoying a boat ride.

Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium Overview

Vizhinjam Marine Aquarium is a must-visit attraction located in one of the busiest fishing harbours in Vizhinjam, near Theatre Junction. The aquatic life preserved here is a treasure trove of marine wealth, comprising a variety of fish, corals and other aquatic animals. This aquarium is known for a unique technique of Image Pearl production. In this procedure, a mould of any random shape, made of shell cement is embedded into the pearl oyster and within 2-3 months, one gets a beautiful pearl in the shape of the mould.

Opening Closing Time09:00 am – 05:30 pm. Open all days

Padmanabhapuram Palace Overview

Situated at the foot of Veli Hills, Padmanabhapuram Palace is a majestic old fortress located en route to Kanyakumari. A marvel of architecture, the palace has secret courtyards, a dining hall that can accommodate up to 1,000 people, and other interesting facets. 

Known as the ancient capital of Travancore kings, the palace has black floors that are made of a unique mixture of burnt coconut, sand and charcoal. The visitors can roam around 180 massive rooms and discover the beauty and historical significance.

Opening Closing Time9 am to 5 pm (All days except Monday and national holidays)

Entrance FeeAdult: Rs. 25, Children: Rs. 10, Foreigners: Rs. 200, Children: Rs. 50

The Zoological Park Overview

The Zoological Park in Thiruvananthapuram is the largest zoological park in India and is a must-visit while staying here. Home to wild animals and various species of flora and fauna, the park is an exciting place to take your kids and learn about wildlife.

Opening Closing Time10 am to 5 pm (All days except Monday)

For Kids

This is a great place for children to observe various kinds of animals at close quarters.

Entrance FeeAdult: Rs. 5, Children: Rs. 3; Camera permit: Rs. 15

Chowara Beach Overview

Located at a distance of approximately 10 kilometres from Kovalam, the beautiful village of Chowara is popular for its beach. Coconut trees dot the sandy shores and the golden sands are an ideal place to relax and enjoy with family. A lesser known seaside destination, the Chowara Beach also has an ayurveda resort in the vicinity.

Opening Closing Time24 hours

Entrance FeeFree Entry

Napier Art Museum & Gallery & Shri Chitra Art Gallery Overview

An art and natural history museum, the Napier Art Museum is one of the most famous attractions in Thiruvananthapuram. It has been named after the former governor of Madras - Lord Napier. The museum has a beautiful collection of artifacts including ivory carvings and traditional ornaments. 

It also has a zoological garden, one of the oldest in the nation. Shri Chitra Art Gallery, located in close quarters, houses resplendent works from the Mughal and Rajput eras.

Opening Closing TimeNapier Art Museum - 10 am to 5 pm (Tuesday to Sunday) 

Chitra Art Gallery - 8 am to 6 pm (Closed on Mondays and national holidays)

Entrance FeeAdult: Rs. 5, Children: Rs. 2; Foreigners: Rs. 20