Five Compelling Things to Do in Kumarakom

Speaking honestly, Kerala needs no introduction as far as an Indian holiday destination is concerned. From tropical beaches to serene backwaters, from incredible tea plantations to Ayurveda, there is no dearth of things to see and do in Kerala. Kumarakom is a well-known holiday hotspot in the state, mainly famed for backwaters. Juxtaposed to Kottayam city, Kumarakom is set on the stunning background of the largest freshwater lake in Kerala, the Vembanad Lake.

Here are top five amazing things you will not mind taking a tour when travelling in Kumarakom.

Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall:

Though small, Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall possesses magical beauty that would bemuse anyone and everyone. As you take a ride from Alleppey to Thekkady, the outstanding beauty of this magical waterfall will take your breath away. It is densely surrounded by lush greenery and the relaxing calm breeze definitely soothes your fickle mind. A wonderful picnic spot, the location of Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall is a must visit attraction for all budding photographers.

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary:

Any wildlife and nature lover out there? Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is definitely calling you. As the name suggests, you should not just expect different varieties of bird species. There is more to just birds. Even if you are fascinated by the tiny creatures, start your journey as early as six in the morning. Besides birds, you will have the fortune of watching the calm backwaters and enjoy houseboat trips.

Kumarakom Beach:

Kumarakom Beach is one of the most sought after sightseeing in Kerala. The beach has earned a big name for being the most pristine in the state. It is very clean and brags off soft sand that is great for a romantic walk in the afternoon. Evenings are more beautiful.

Ettumanoor Mahadeva Temple:

If myths are to be believed, Ettumanoor Mahadev Temple was the worship spot for the Pandavas. It is an eminent ancient Shiva Temple that has brought fame and glory to this beautiful place and often counted along with other important Shiva temples in the state including Vadakkunathan temple, Kaduthruthy Mahadeva Temple, Ernakulam Shiva Temple and Chengannur Mahadev Temple.

Kerala Backwaters:

Kerala backwaters are just awe-inspiring. With superb sightseeing and pristine beaches backwaters give visitors numerous reasons to visit Kerala. Opt out for a houseboat ride on the backwaters and explore the state in style. Choose the best South India tour packages and mark a memorable trip to Kumarakom.

Can’t Miss These 5 Festivals in May

Summer in India is quite hot. If you think you can tolerate the heat, you will be entitled with a myriad of fascinating festivals to participate and enjoy. Let’s check out which festival of which region keeps you engaged and brings out the best festive mood in you. The following festivals are illustrated by date.

• Chithirai Festival:

This year the Chithirai Festival starts from 21^st April and ends on 4^th May. The Chithirai Festival is considered as one of the biggest festive carnivals in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. The main attraction of the festival is the wedding of Goddess Meenakshi (sister of Lord Vishnu) with Lord Sundareswarar (Lord Shiva). If myths are to be believed, Almighty Vishnu came to eyewitness the sacred wedding, mounted on a dazzling golden horse.

• Buddha Purnima:

Budha Purnima, also known as Buddha Jayanti, is marked the birthday of Buddha. It is one of the most important and sacred festivals in Buddhism. All Buddha followers gather at various Buddhist sites across the country to celebrate this precious occasion by indulging in massive prayers, religious discourses and sermons, group meditation, worshipping the statue of Lord Buddha, processions and recitation of Buddhist scriptures. Come to Bodhgaya to have the best experience of this festival. In case you cannot make it, there is another place as important as Bodhgaya – Buddha jayanti Park in Delhi. The festival will be celebrated on 4^th May, 2015. Get advantage of Mahaparinirvan Express Buddhist Tourist Train that runs by Indian Railways for this occasion.

• Mt. Abu Summer Festival, Rajasthan:

Ballad singing accompanied by folk dancing, Mt. Abu Summer Festival opens up in style. A three-day festival witnesses a variety of sports activities such as roller skate and boat racing on the beautiful Nakki Lake. The main attraction of this carnival is a music show - the Sham-e-Qawwali that draws prominent gawwals from across India. On the last, there is a dazzling display of fireworks.

• Ooty Summer Festival:

It is a flower show, which takes place at the Botanical Gardens in Tamil Nadu. The surroundings come to life with various cultural events, trekking and boat racing. It starts in the first week of May.

•  Ganga Dussehra:

Legend has it that the sacred Ganges River descended to earth on this very day – that is celebrated today as the ganga Dussehra Festival. Devotees in large numbers assemble to take bath, worship and do aarti. This year the festival falls on 28^th May. It is celebrated in Varanasi.