The Queen of the Arabian Sea; despite India having a vast coastline sharing with the waters of the Arabian sea with beautiful shores, it is only Kochi / Cochin which has the honour of carrying this sobriquet. Cochin has always been in prominence due to its proximity to the sea and the natural harbor that it has. The history of Cochin dates back to the days of Roman Empire when the trade between India and Cochin with Rome was on a full spree. The spices along with pearls and tortoise shells were the basic trading objects. Very soon silk, cotton, honey and oil also found the path through this trade to Rome and other countries.

Cochin is a cluster of islands on the vast expanse of the Vembanad Lake. Some of these picturesque islands are Bolgatty, Vypeen, Gundu and Vallarpadam. The lake opens out into the Arabian Sea here to form one of the finest natural harbors in the world. The actual trading ground was Muziris and Cochin came into existence much later. This natural harbor was actually formed due to nature. In the mid 14th century, a great flood in the Periyar River led to an in the sea. The floods had meanwhile silted up the mouth of the Muziris harbor and this rich ancient port was lost in history almost immediately. The merchants of Muziris shifted to Kochi and thus Kochi came into prominence. It became such an important place that when the Europeans such as the Portuguese, the Dutch and the English, landed in India, each had to face many a battles to establish themselves on this priceless trading port. Vasco - Da - Gama, the first known European to have landed in India and the Fort Manuel is the first known fort built by the Europeans in India.As the trade developed in Cochin, so did the importance of the port and today, Kochi or Cochin is the commercial and industrial capital of Kerala. Many religious and historical monuments have made this place one of the most important tourist spots of Kerala. Along with the Jewish Synagogue and the Chinese fishing nets, the proximity of sea and the famed backwaters of Kerala have added to its beauty and its potential as a forth coming tourist destinations of India.

Location: Kochi (Cochin) is known as the queen of the Arabian Sea. Situated in the district of Ernakulam, Kochi or Cochin has a natural harbor and hence has been a prominent port since days unknown. One of the rare ports of the world having all the three modes of transport, rail, sea and air in full-developed form.

Other Name:               Cochin

Languages Spoken:     Malayalam and English

Long Distance Code:  +91-484

Importance:                 Most important port of India and famous for Chinese fishing nets.

Area: 8700 sqkm

Best Time To Visit:      October To February & Summer months of March, April and May can be enjoyable too.

This Dutch palace situated on the Bolghatty Island near the city of Cochin was once the official residence of the British resident of Kochi. Built in 1744 A.D. this beautiful palace has now been converted into a hotel by the Kerala Tourism. It is also known as the Dutch palace as it was actual the residence of the Dutch officials before the British took over. Huge historical portraits, beautiful panoramic view and the most exciting boat ride to the palace are its main attractions.

From far in the sea one can spot these fishing nets on the coast of Cochin. The Chinese Fishing Nets are the only one of its kinds in India. It is said they were brought here from the courts of Kublai Khan in China. Watching the sunset through these huge cantilevered fishing nets is a splendid sight, when the nets adhere to the crimson shadow of the sky. These nets are not only a marvel to watch but also a proof of the ancient trade relations between India, especially Kerala and China.

One of the oldest buildings in Cochin, the Dutch palace or the Mattancherry palace is a beautiful structure built in oriental style of architecture. It was the Portuguese who built it and later gifted it to the rulers of Kochi in mid 16th century. Later the Dutch renovated it in the 17th century and since then it was known as the Dutch palace. Neither the Portuguese nor the Dutch ever resided in the building and it was always the bastion of the rulers of Kochi.Most of the rulers were coroneted in this very palace and the palace has a portrait gallery of the kings of Kochi. A temple in the middle of the courtyard dedicated to the royal deity, Palayannur Bhagawati, and the side temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Krishna, along with beautiful murals depicting the scenes from the epic Ramayana, is some of the prime attractions of this palace. A museum displaying the objects used by the kings and the queens is a must visit inside the palace.

Built in the 19th century by Raja of Kochi, the Hill Palace was the official residence of the rulers of Kochi. Around 10 kms from the town of Kochi, the Hill Palace has an amazing array of plants, herbs and medicinal plants; almost all those are found in Kerala; cultivated here.Today this palace has been converted into a museum and has on display ancient paintings and murals and many an obects of antiquity. The Simhasana, or the throne of the Kings of Kochi is the main attraction along with some objects like ceramic vases from China and Japan.

Kochi city has surprises to offer. One of many such beautiful surprises that the city offers is this bird sanctuary. The Mangalvanam bird sanctuary is situated right in the heart of Kochi city. It is the home of many exotic and rare varieties of migratory birds and a definite beautiful sight to visit.

It is the oldest church built by European in India. On his 3rd visit to Kerala, Vasco de Gama, the Portuguese trader who reached India from Europe by sea, fell ill and died in Kochi. He was buried in the St. Francis Church. Later his remains were taken back to Portugal. In spite of that the exact place where he was buried has been marked out inside the church.

Total Rooms: 97

Star Category: 5

The Malabar Hotel is situated on Willingdon Island and offers magnificent views of the Cochin harbor and the beautiful backwaters. The hotel is easily accessible from the airport, which is only 10 minutes away. The hotel has a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Total Rooms: 96

Star Category: 5

Located on Willingdon Island, the Trident is hardly 20 minutes drive away from Fort Cochin. It is also quite close to the business area of Ernakulam. The property is architecturally rich and reflects the traditional low buildings of Cochin with their sloping terracotta tiled roofs.

Total Rooms: 120

Star Category: 5

Just 45 minutes from Kochi International Airport, Ramada Lake Resort and Spa is an exclusive 5 star deluxe resort. 8 acres of secluded waterfront land. 120 aesthetically crafted rooms. Floating pool villas, meandering pool villas on stilts, lake facing cottages and deluxe rooms. A 5500 sq.ft. Spa overlooking the lake. The first-of-its-kind in the country. All this and more to serenade your senses and give you a holiday experience unlike any other. A veritable altar of enchantment beside the Kumbalam Lake. Promoted by Synthite Group. A global leader in natural extracts and product solutions. Synthite ventured into the hospitality sector with Riviera Suites. Ramada Lake Resort and Spa is their second undertaking to promote tourism in Kerala. Ramada Lake Resort and Spa will be opened for tourism in early 2008.

Total Rooms: 67

Star Category: 5

This luxury hotel is ideally located between the old city of Fort Cochin and the modern town of Ernakulam. It is clean, private and friendly.

Total Rooms: 109

Star Category: 4

hotel that brings the gracious comfort and elegance of your home to the Cochin city. Travelers & guests will find it the perfect place to mix business with pleasure. Being strategically located it is a boon to the business travelers from all over. About 27 kms from the Airport, 300 meters away from Ernakulam Town Railway Station, a stone's throw away from the Bus Terminus and one of the closest hotel in Ernakulam to the International Airport at Nedumbassery. The perfect place for the business traveler with easy access to fax, telex, telephones and secretarial services. For those who'd like a more relaxed holiday we'll be happy and proud to show you our lovely city the serene, tranquil backwaters, historic palaces and sites of a bygone era, the bustling Harbour.. All the sight- seeing you'd like. Or take a cruise around the beautiful islands that dot the sea around

During the British rule in India, Munnar was the summer resort of the Government officials. The natural beauty, calmness and mild cold climate throughout the year make it the favourite tourist place of both; Indians as well as foreigners. There are about 30 tea plantations in and around Munnar. The tea estates, hills, lakes and forests inside Munnar range expose its beauty. The Munnar hills are covered by tea plants, which make the feeling of seeing a wide green carpet.

Location: Munnar in South India is located in the east of Kerala bordering with the state of Tamilnadu. While the famous district of Combatore in Tamilnadu is in the north and Pallivassal in the south, Munnar shares its boundaries with Vattavada and Kuttampuzha in the east and west respectively.

Languages Spoken: Malayalam, Tamil, English

Long Distance Code: +91-486

Importance: Famous for tea and coffee plantations

Area: 26.2 sq.km.

Best Time To Visit: September To May

It is a scenic spot offering majestic views of the tea, coffee and cardamom plantations in Munnar. The undulating hills, the lush mountain and the incredible scenery here is ideal for trekking and extensive mountain walks.

While in Munnar, visit the Anaimudi Peak, which is considered to be the highest peak in southern India. One can set up tents for camping and trekking at an altitude of about 2700 meters and enjoy the tranquil mountain atmosphere. It is a feast for nature lovers and enthusiasts. This peak provides the ultimate high and holiday experience.

It is located at a height of 1700 meters and famous for its highly specialized dairy farm. You can visit the cattle shed farms at this place on your tour to Munnar. Besides, the Mattupetty Lake and dam is a short distance from the farm and is a beautiful picnic spot. You can also get boating facilities on the Mattupetty Dam that would simply be exciting.

An important tourist attraction at Munnar is the Kuthumkal Waterfalls. The scenic waterfalls, falling from spectacular heights and creating a foggy atmosphere is something worth watching out for.

This place is the natural habitat of a rare animal known as the Nilgiri Tahr. The place is located around 2700 meters above sea level and makes an ideal spot to relax and rejuvenate oneself.

Total Rooms : 34

Star Category : 2

Munnar, once the summer Resort of the erstwhile British Government, is situated 1600 meters above sea level amidst sprawling Tea plantation and picturesque mountain, valley and streams. Munnar has the highest peak in South India, Anamudi, which towers over 2695 meters. Sightseeing and Activities like Trekking, paragliding and boating make Munnar a pleasant tourist destination. Adding to Charm of Munnar is the courteous hospitality offered by Abad Copper Castle . The resort has 38 well appointed rooms and suites, Multi- Cuisine Restaurant, Recreation Room, Meeting Room, Utility shop, Lawn Garden and spacious Car Park. Abad Copper Castle is located on Kannan Devan Hills and offers a panoramic View of the rich bounty that nature has to offer. Come ,indulge in the quiet luxury of our facilitates and relax in the cool and serene surroundings of Munnar.

Total Rooms : 88

Star Category : 3

Sterling Day's Inn in Munnar offers hospitality and service with a wide range of accommodation options. There are studios, single bedrooms and double bedrooms and most of the units have a kitchenette and telephones.

FORT MUNNAR

Total Rooms : 29

Star Category : 3

A Hill Station luxury Hotel located 6500 ft above sea level,overlooking the Anayirangal Lake and surrounded by cardamom, tea and coffee plantations. Munnar with its impeccable beauty has become the most sought after destination for your holiday.

Total Rooms : 25

Star Category : 3

Cloud9 is a 3-star hotel located at Munnar, along the Madurai road. It is 80 kms from Thekkady. The nearest railway station Aluva is 130 kms away, and the Nedumbassery International Airport, Kochi is 130 kms from here.

Total Rooms : 25

Star Category : 3

Oak Fields - Munnar, set amidst oak trees, cardamom hills and tea plantations, is just 5 km from NH 49 on the Munnar-Bison Valley Road. It is located in a lush green cardamom forest and mountains swathed in mist. Managed by a team of dedicated professionals to achieve higher standards in the art of hospitality, Oak Fields welcomes you to the beauty and tranquility of nature.

Around 15 kms from the state capital of Thiruvananthapuram is the one of the most famous beaches of India, for local as well as international tourists, the Kovalam Beach. The small village of Kovalam came into limelight due to its beautiful beaches; those were thronged by tourists from all over the world. The uniqueness of the beaches was what attracted the tourists to this tiny village. Kovalam in the local language means, place fringed with coconut palms, and indeed it is. Kovalam is full of coconut trees and soothing seashore, one of the best in India for swimming and other water sports. The beaches of Kovalam are in a crescent like shape and can be divided in three parts. To the south is the most popular beach known as the lighthouse beach. One can have a spectacular view of the Vizhinzam Mosque from here. The northern most beach is known as the Samudra Beach and in between lies the beach called Hawah. While the other two beaches are mostly used for fishing purposes, it is only the Lighthouse beach that is full of tourists day in and out.

The soothing sand, the cool breeze and the beautiful sea, is the best place to relax. Kovalam beach offers many other options for relaxation such as the Ayurvedic massage parlours and Yoga classes. To top all the wonderful sea cuisine to cheer one's palate is always there. The nights on the beaches are enlivened with the traditional Kathakali dance performances and various other folk forms of art performed by the local artists.

Location: It is located at a distance of around 15 kms from the capital of the state of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram.

Languages Spoken : Malayalam, English

Long Distance : Code +91-471

Importance :  world famous beach

Best Time To Visit : September To March

Kovalam Attractions:

This is another picturesque beach near Kovalam. The serene and calm atmosphere draws many people to this place every year. It is famous for the various beautiful sea birds that visit this place. Thus this beach in Pachalloor is also considered to be a birdwatchers' paradise.

The place is important for both its historical and religious significance. It is famous for the beautiful sculptures. There is a granite temple inside the cave. On the outer walls mythological stories on the life of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati are carved.

Kaudiar Palace

This magnificent old structure was the home to the late Maharaja Sree Chitra Thirunal Bala Rama Varma. This grand palace is admired mainly for its architectural splendor.

Thiruvallam

In this place near Kovalam you can enjoy the Kerala backwaters. There are facilities for cruising in the water while you enjoy the surrounding greenery. The Parashuram temple in this region also attracts many pilgrims every year.

Total Rooms : 193

Star Category : 5

The Leela Palaces and Resorts, four of India's finest deluxe hotels, hallmark the essence of India in Kovalam. The Group has established a global leadership position in the 5-star luxury hotel and resort industry for the world's most discerning business and leisure travelers. The proximity to International airports and central business districts, strategic location, individuality, architectural aesthetics, lush greens and the intrinsic Indian culture and heritage distinguishes the group from the rest. The Leela is committed to striving for excellence and exceeding expectations based on the ancient Indian philosophy that the 'Guest is God'

Total Rooms : 110

Star Category : 4

Located on one of India's most popular beaches, Kovalam, the property is spread across 10 acres of land, offering a breathtaking view of the backwater, lush landscapes, coconut palms, and unspoiled beaches. With its exotic tropical beauty and relaxing hospitality, this getaway is the perfect place to enjoy relaxation and rejuvenation of the mind, body, and soul.

Total Rooms : 30

Star Category : 4

Sagara Beach Resort is a small friendly hotel in front of the light house beach of Kovalam. It has 42 air conditioned rooms, each with twin beds, en-suite toilet and shower, running hot and cold water etc. All the rooms have balcony with a view of the Arabian sea, which is a perfect venue for your early evening G & T. The hotel has an ayurvedic Centre, swimming pool and a restaurant on the roof.

Total Rooms : 64

Star Category : 3

Samudra - the word means Ocean - is your perfect seaside getaway. The hotel lies sprawled languidly in la luxuriant landscaped garden that won acclaim as the best in the State at the annual International Flower Show held at Thiruvananthapuram.

Total Rooms : 90

Star Category :

Reception Lobby : The reception building, a 120-year-old Palace (the Valiamadom Kottaram) of a regional King of Edapally lineage is a replica of the beauty and grandeur of the old architectural style of the time. It houses the reception, lobby and front office. The guest activity center on the first floor has a small library, facilities for indoor games like chess and card games, satellite TV and an internet kiosk. Locker Facility is available on request at the reception : Conference/Banquet Hall : On the basement of the reception building is an air-conditioned conference/banquet hall which can accommodate 100 guests with adequate service foyer and all modern audio and video equipments for even blue chip conferences. : Swimming Pool : The main swimming pool is of 228 sq. mtrs, with a kid's pool and set of Jacuzzis. The pool has broad pool decks finished in natural dressed granite with poolside umbrellas and long reclining poolside cots. The second swimming pool having an area of 110 sq.mtrs is at the beach grove with sea view. Beverages and light refreshments for the pool users will be served from the restaurant. : Health Club : The Resort has a well equiped health club which is located at the top of the beach grove : Travel Desk & Shopping : The Resort has a travel desk and car rental service. It also has a small shop selling essential cosmetics

Pushkar is all about a semicircular lake with 52 'ghats'. The maximum depth of the lake is 10mteres. It is a holy place and is known as king of all 'tiraths'. A holy dip in this lake on Karthik Purnima is said to wash all the sins and leads to salvation. It is said that the one who bathes in this holy water during the brighter fortnight of the Hindu calendar month Karthik and sees a Varah (an incarnation of Vishnu), will not take a rebirth on this planet again and can enjoy the heavenly bliss forever. The Karthik Purnima holy dip in this lake gives one a blessing equal to hundred penances. There are many yojana spots which cannot be counted by the teacher of gods, Brihaspati.How the name Pushkar came as a mythological story behind it. Once Lord Brahma was worried over the matter of not being prayed to on the earth like the other Gods. He had the desire to have a place on his name on the earth. So he threw a lotus flower which fell on three places and water sprang out from there miraculously. The first place where the flower fell is known as the Jyeshtha Pushkar, the second place is the Madhya Pushkar, and the third place is the Kanishtha Pushkar or Senior, Middle and the Junior respectively. Brahma threw the flower that is the 'Pushpa' with his own hands that is the 'Kar', therefore the name of this place became Pushkar.There are 52 bathing ghats built around the lake. The water of each ghats is supposed to have special powers. Some of which are the Nag Kund for fertility, Roop tirath for beauty, Kapil vyapi Kund water helps cure leprosy and dip in the Mirakand Muni Kund grants the boon of wisdom.

Every year on the day of Karthik Purnima, that is the full moon day in the month of Karthik (somewhere in October - November), the famous Pushkar fair is held here. People from all over the country come to take the holy dip. The town comes alive with folk dancers and musicians who come from all the regions to show their talent. Joyful celebration, cultural variety and cattle market make Pushkar fair famous. This fair is one of the major cultural reflectors of the state of Rajasthan. This is a five day affair when the small town comes alive with cultural activities and vibrant energy.Apart from the religious rituals at the Jagat Pita Shri Brahma Mandir, and other festivities, people participate in a number of sporting and cultural events. The great attraction of this fair other than the variety of folk dances and songs that fill the atmosphere is the camel race and the cattle fair. Cows, Buffaloes, Camels, Horses and even Donkeys are bargained for. This special fair attracts tourists from all over the world.

Location: 11 Kilometers from Ajmer, on the edge of the desert, lies the tiny tranquil town of Pushkar, long the bank of a picturesque Pushkar lake. It is an important pilgrimage spot. The Nag pahar or the snake mountain forms a natural boundary between Ajmer and Pushkar.

Languages Spoken: Rajasthani, Hindi, English

Long Distance Code: +91-145

Importance:World famous for the annual Camel fair and the only Lord Brahma temple.

Area: 5 sq.kms.

Best Time To Visit: July To March

Brahma Temple

The only Brahma temple in India where, according to Hindu mythology the creator of earth - Brahma is worshipped. Therefore it has become one of the most important pilgrimage centres for the Hindus. It is nestled in the Pushkar valley which lies beyond Nag parvat and the Ana Sagar Lake. This place is full of natural beauty. It is believed that Lord Brahma, along with other deities performed a Yagnya here. This only temple where Lord Brahma is worshiped is built with marble and decorated with silver coins and has a silver turtle on the floor of. It has a red spire and a goose, considered to be auspicious to Brahma.

The temple is situated on the Ratnagiri Hill and is dedicated to Goddess Savitri, the wife of Lord Brahma. An interesting legend is attached to the temple. Once Lord Brahma had to perform a 'Yagna' (a holy rite to appease gods) on a very short notice. Since he could not do this without his wife, he married Gayatri, a local milkmaid after purifying her. When Savitri came to know of all this, she was furious and cursed her husband that he would never be worshipped anywhere except in Pushkar and that too only once a year. She then left for the Ratnagiri Hill and performed self-immolation.

Man Mahal

On the banks of Pushkar is the magnificent palace built by Raja Man Singh - I of Amer. Now it has been converted into an RTDC Hotel Sarovar and offers a comfortable accommodation to the tourists.

Pushkar Lake is said to be very sacred and has said to be originated when the petals from Lord Brahma's lotus fell on the earth and a lake of clear blue water emerged at its place. 500 temples, 52 palaces, and 52 ghats surround the lake. It is at this lake that the world-renowned Pushkar fair is organized on the occasion of Kartik Purnima every year.

Total Rooms : 45

Star Category : 3

The pushkar bagh is an exceptional example of elegance and symmetry in Indian architecture of the last century. The entire bagh is carved out of the famous pink sandstone of Jodhpur it exquisitely captures the romance and grace of a bygone era. The Pushkar Bagh courtyards are peaceful havens where guests can unwind for the day and spend the afternoon leisurely reading or relaxing while capturing the panoramic view of mountains and desert.

Total Rooms : 50

Star Category : 3

Hotel The park city is located in central Pushkar, opposite the city bus stand and next to a gurudwara, with the Pushkar Lake 5 minutes down the road. The rooms are comfortably appointed with all modern amenities and attached with balconies which have great views of a garden. The rooftop restaurant is ideal for dinner as it overlooks the Pushkar Lake .

Total Rooms : 53

Star Category : 3

Hotel Pushkar Palace has well appointed 48 Super Deluxe Rooms and 5 Suites with all facilities in the rooms. Hotel has two floors, most of the rooms including all suites are overlooking the lake and has garden view.

Total Rooms : 136

Star Category : 2.5

"PUSHKAR FORT" offers 16 ethnic Royal Huts, which is situated in the Base of Savitri Temple at Pushkar. It has on offer gorgeous guestrooms for the guests. It pampers them with a wide selection of Maharaja Suites, Maharani Suites, Royal Huts and Swiss Cottages. All these accommodations at this hotel enjoy a very impressive location as they overlook verdant green lawns set in the backdrop of mountains and sand dunes. Apart from elegance, the other feature that characterizes them well is the availability of modern comforts. Some of the modern comforts include television, telephone, air conditioners and en suite bathrooms.Pushkar Fort offers 16 Royal Huts , 10 Deluxe Room, 10 Deluxe AC Tent & 100 Swiss Cottages. Every room has a different view of nature with beautiful Sunset & Sunrise. Tastefully Designed and decorated with antique and modern furniture fixtures. 4 Maharaja Suit, 12 Royal Huts fitted with air conditioning & modern attached bath offers a memorable, peaceful and comfortable stay to guest visiting Pushkar. 125 luxury tents, each 512 sq ft. All have private gardens and an outside deck for sunbathing. The tents have been innovatively crafted using the traditional local artist’s skills and Block printing crafts of Rajasthan. The tents feature Hand crafted wooden furniture, Hand knotted "durries" to cover the floor, separate dressing room with attach showers. All the tents have marble floors and embroidered interior canopies and are furnished in regal style

Total Rooms : 19

Star Category : 0

Teerth Palace Pushkar is in a good and peaceful location, quite suitable for all guests coming to Pushkar. Either you come here for business purpose or sightseeing, you can relax in this comfortable hotel.A warm greeting, a welcoming smile and dedicated reception at the hotel lobby offer you an experience of visiting and staying at the hotel.