Kerala Life

Anjuthengu/ Anchuthengu , formerly known as Anjengo, is a coastal town near Kadakkavoor in Thiruvananthapuram District of Kerala. This old Portuguese settlement lies between Kollam and Thiruvananthapuram. The place possesses great archeological and historical importance. In 17th century, the English East India Company selected Anjutheng to set up their first trade settlement in Kerala. Queen of Attingal granted the place to the British for trading. They established a factory and a fort here wit

Kanakakkunnu Palace is situated in Thiruvananthapuram located about 800 meters north east of the Napier museum, India. Kanakakkunnu Palace is one of the last architectural vestiges of the colonial era and India's first digital garden in a public place, created by Akhilesh S. V. Nair and A. Gangaprasad, University of Kerala, Department of Botany.

The Koyikkal Palace is a palace situated in Nedumangadu, Thiruvananthapuram District, it was built by Umayamma Rani of the Venad Royal Family between 1677 and 1684. Today, however, it is famous as a Folklore Museum and a Numismatics Museum. Its unique antique collection provides one with a valuable insight into the past of Kerala and it attracts people from across the State on a regular basis.

Aranmula Parthasarathy Temple situated in Kerala dedicated Lord Krishna an incarnation of Lord Vishnu called as Lord Parthasarathy. This is one of the popular temples dedicated to Lord Krishna. Lord Krishna got his name Parthasarathy as he played the role of Arjuna’s Charioteer in the epic Mahabharata. One can easily reach this temple to benet blessings from the Lord.

Chakkulathukavu Sree Bhagavathy Temple, located 30 km southeast of Alappuzha, has a rich 3000 year old history associated with it. It is open to people of all faiths and attracts believers from across the State. The Mother Goddess Durga is worshipped here. The famous rivers Pamba and Manimala flow on both sides of the temple.

Kakki Reservoir is a reservoir, located in Pathanamthitta district of Kerala. The lake, which was created when Kakki dam and Anathode dam were built, is on one of the tributaries of Pamba, the Kakki tributary. Kakki dam was built in 1966 as a part of the Sabarigiri Hydroelectric project. Kakki reservoir, a tributary to Pamba River is located in the Pathanamthitta district.

The Kaviyoor Thrikkakkudi Cave Temple, popularly known as the Rock Cut Cave Temple is an ancient temple carved on a massive rock located at Kaviyoor near Thiruvalla in the Pathanamthitta district. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this temple is also of archaeological importance because of its close similarity to the Pallava style of architecture.

The Palliyara Sree Bhagavathy Temple, renowned to the devotees as the Chilanthi Ambalam (place of worship dedicated to sanctified or deified spiders) is a sacred temple of worship for those ailing and suffering from spider poison or toxins. Located about 10 KM away from Adoor and 11 km from Pathanamthitta, the temple is located in the backdrop of the Sakthibhadra Samskarika Kendram Complex. It is believed to be only one of its kinds in India which attracts thousands of devotees from far and near

Malayalapuzha Bhagavathy Temple is an ancient temple in South Kerala. Dedicated to Goddess Bhadrakali, this temple is located at Malayalapuzha almost 8 kilometers away from Pathanamthitta Town. This temple is believed to be built more than 1000 years ago.

At a distance of 6 Kms from Pathanamthitta, Manjinikkara Church, also known as St. Stephen's Church is situated on a hillock near Omallur.

Antique Museum is situated on Synagogue lane, Jew town, Mattancherry in Ernakulam. The museum displays a wide variety of antiques, including statues, pottery & other cultural artifacts. This museum is a branch of Fine arts emporium, Kochi. The public can visit the museum between 9 am to 6 pm.

The Chottanikkara Bhagavathy Temple, is one of the oldest temples in the state of Kerala. The shrine is dedicated to the Mother Goddess who is worshipped here in her three major incarnations of Saraswathi, Lakshmi and Durga. Goddess Saraswathi is offered prayers in the morning, Lakshmi in the noon and Durga in the evening. The idol of the goddess is a self-manifested one which is formed out of a laterite known as Rudraksha Shila. As the goddess is worshipped in her three forms, the decorations

The Indo-Portuguese Museum, in the compound of Bishop House at Fort Kochi, is a heritage museum where one can be acquainted with the Portuguese connections in Kochi’s past. The museum was installed with the aid of the efforts of the late Dr. Joseph Kureethra, Bishop of Kochi, in a bid to defend and exhibit the rich cultural history and Portuguese have an impact on. This museum now showcases the Portuguese effects on Fort Kochi and the encompassing regions, particularly, the western components o

Malayattoor is a village in the North Eastern corner of Ernakulam District in the state of Kerala in South India. The name `Malayattoor' is an amalgamation of three small words. Mala (Mountain) Arr (River) Oore (Place). This is to say, Malayattoor is a meeting place of mountains, river, and land. It is believed that St. Thomas the Apostle who came to India to preach gospel set up the Church in Malayattoor. Later It was designated by the Vatican as one of the eight shrines in the world. One have

Mattancherry in Kochi is most known for the oldest synagogue in the Commonwealth, the Paradesi Synagogue. Built in 1568,this synagogue attracts numerous visitors to this day. It adds to the area's quaint charm and is a great symbol of the love and harmony that exists in the community. 'Paradesi' literally translates to foreigner in most Indian languages. Many of the original members of the community hailed from Kodungallur, the Middle East and Europe.

The St. Francis Church at Ernakulam is a famous Christian pilgrim center with beautiful architecture. The serene and peaceful ambience is another attraction of this holy site. This shrine is believed to be among the oldest churches in the country built by Europeans.

The Palace of Shakthan Thampuran located in the district of Thrissur is a landmark in the annals of the Perumpadappu Swaroopam, the former ruling dynasty of Kochi. The palace located in the heart of Thrissur town is a major attraction, especially for those with a special interest in eminent rulers and dynasties. It is believed that the reign of King Rama Varma Shakthan Thampuran (AD 1790-1805) popularly known as Shakthan as the golden era of Kochi.

An architectural marvel in wood and stone, the Vadakkumnathan Temple, one of the oldest in the state, stands tall right at the heart of Thrissur, in a nine-acre walled patch of green. This centuries-old temple which is a classic example of Kerala's rich cultural heritage has sent flutters in the international circuit by clinching the ‘Award of Excellence’ last year at the UNESCO Asia-Pacific Awards for Cultural Heritage Conservation for taking great strides in protecting its legacy in architectu

Founded in 1930 by renowned poet Padmabhooshan Vallathol Narayana Menon along the banks of the river Nila in the Cheruthuruthy village of Thrissur District, Kalamandalam is an immortal name in the cultural map of the world. Kalamandalam is strictly a residential center of learning. Veteran teachers and talented students are its inestimable wealth. For art-recitals, demonstrations and workshops held in Kalamandalam and outside, artiste-teachers and students participate

Dedicated to Lord Krishna, Thiruvambady Temple is a must-visit pilgrimage center in Kerala. One of the main attractions of this temple is that it is a participating temple of the vibrant Thrissur Pooram. In fact, Thiruvambadi Krishna Temple is almost synonymous with Thrissur Pooram for the general public. In addition to the main deity, the temple enshrined Goddess Bhagavathy also on the left side of Lord Krishna. She is also worshipped in this shrine with equal devotion. There are separate shrin

Triprayar Sri Rama Temple is an ancient temple which is dedicated to Lord Rama and is situated in Triprayar, Thrissur. The prime deity worshipped in the temple is popularly known as Triprayarappan or Triprayar Thevar. The idol of Lord Rama can be seen here holding a conch, a disc, a garland, and a bow with his four arms. As per legends, it is believed that Lord Krishna worshipped the idol of Lord Rama. After the swargarohana of Lord Krishna, this idol was submerged in the sea and was later disco

Situated in Thaikkattussery near Ollur in the district of Thrissur, the Vaidyaratnam Ayurveda Museum is one of its kind in Kerala. Showcasing a dioramic representation of the traditional growth that Ayurveda has witnessed over the years and the work that has been put in by the Acharyas towards the evolution of science over the years, the museum is a perfect place for all the people who have interest in this field of study.

India’s first mosque, the Cheraman Juma Masjid in Kodungallur, Kerala, has remained a source of fascination as well as an active place of worship for well over a thousand years. Built during Prophet Muhammad’s lifetime. This landmark building is among the most important of India’s historic, architecturally stunning mosques.
Some believe that the mosque is built as early as AD 629 (very close to origins of Islam)! If true, this would make the mosque one of the important archeological build

Located in the Guruvayoor town, Guruvayur Sree Krishna Temple is one of the most sacred pilgrim hubs in Kerala. It is one of the most revered temples in South India where the presiding deity Lord Vishnu is worshipped in Balkrishna Avtar. Lord idol is adorned with four hands each carrying a conch, a mace, a discus and a lotus and is also known by the name of Unnikrishnan. Garlanded with the Tulasi or Basil Garland and pearl necklace, the lord appears in full radiance blessing the devotees.

Sri Viswanatha Swamy Temple, also known as the Kalpathy Temple, is one of the famous temples in Palakkad district of Kerala. Locally known as Dakshina Kashi and Kundukovil, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and his consort Goddess Parvati. Lord Shiva is worshipped here in the form of Lord Viswanatha Swamy and Parvati is worshipped as Vishalakshi.

The Palakkad Fort in Kerala is a beautiful historical monument that has gently integrated its high walls with its surrounding green gardens. One of the most well-preserved forts in the state of Kerala, the Palakkad fort was built in the 1766 AD by Hyder Ali and is now a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India.

The Thiruvalathur Randu Moorthy temple is popular for its grand architecture and sculptures, which are believed to be very old and have been discovered by Parsurama, situated near Ottapalam, Palakkad. This beautiful temple is dedicated to two goddesses — the passionate Mahishasura Mardini and the peaceful Annapurnneswari. It is spread over a large area and is protected by huge stone walls, with four main entrances facing North, South, East, and West.

Varikkassery Mana is an old Nalukettu Tharavadu in the place of Manissery in Ottapalam Town, which is an old Ancestral home used by the Namboothiri Clan from Kerala for more than 1000 years. The traditional home of one of the most aristocratic Namboothiri families of Valluvanad. The heartthrob of erstwhile Malabar is known for its architectural beauty.

Alathiyur Hanuman Temple is located in Alathiyur, near Tirur, Malappuram district in the state of Kerala, India. The temple is dedicated to Lord Sree Rama, his brother Bharatha and Lord Hanuman. According to the history, the temple is very ancient and the deity of Hanuman present in the temple was installed 3000 years ago by Sage Vasishtha, one of the Saptarishis, the seven great sages of Hindu Mythology.

Nilambur Kovilakam is the royal residence of Nilambur royal family, the erstwhile local rulers of this region that was known as Eranad. Situated 30 km from Malappuram, this architectural marvel has been lauded by many across the globe. Built in the traditional Kerala architecture the palace is situated at the foot of the Western Ghats along the banks of the river Chaliyar.

Pazhayangadi Mosque, also known as Kondotty Mosque, is a 500-year old pilgrim center in Kerala for Muslims. Located almost 18 kilometers east of Manjeri, this shrine is on the way to Malappuram. This spectacular mosque is among the most revered Muslim pilgrim centers in the state. The mosque was built in the memory of a Mohammed Shah, a true follower of Islam popularly known as Kondotti Thangal. Built in white marble following the traditional Mughal architecture and sculpture, this marvel is ded

Among all the Muslim pilgrim centers in Kerala, Ponnani Juma Masjid has a special place. Having numerous ancient mosques, Ponnani is called the ‘Makkah of Kerala Muslims.’ This nickname itself shows how important the mosques here are for the Muslims in Kerala.

This unique temple located in Angadipuram in Malappuram district, is famous for its Mangalya Pooja, an offering done to get rid of all the problems related to marriage. The prime deity of the temple is Thirumandham Kunnil Amma who was the official Goddess of the feudal kings of that region during the Middle Age. The major deities here include Lord Shiva, Parvathi, Ganapathy and Bhadrakali. The legend behind the existence of this temple is interesting.

Thirunavaya Temple, also known as Thirunavaya Nava Mukunda Kshetram, is an ancient temple having great historical importance. The temple is scenically placed on the banks of river Bharathapuzha and draws devotees from all over Kerala. It is situated in a small village named Thirunavaya, a place marked in the ancient history of Kerala as the location for the most renowned Mamankam Festival.

Located 32 kms from Malappuram at Tirur is the hallowed Thunchan Parambu, the birthplace of Thunchath Ezhuthachan, the father of Malayalam language. This stretch of ground has been carefully preserved for posterity with items like the iron stylus used by the scholar and literary giant kept on display.

The Bathery Jain Temple, dating back to the 13th century, is said to have been built in the prevalent architectural style of the then reigning Vijayanagar Dynasty. Tipu Sultan set up his battery at this site, and today the entirety of Sulthan Bathery is named after the same. One is immediately made aware of the sanctity and colourful past that shrouds this temple in both grandeur and mystique.

On the side of the Brahmagiri hills in Wayanad lay an ancient temple, dedicated to Lord Maha Vishnu, the Thirunelli temple. The temple, surrounded by beautiful hills and forests, is located 32 km away from Mananthavady. The temple is also known as Sahyamala Kshetram and Kashi of South.

Built by the first Portuguese Viceroy in India, Don Francesco de Almeida (1505), St. Angelo’s Fort is among the most historic sites in Kannur. This massive triangular laterite structure is flanked by gigantic bastions that make for an imposing sight. It changed hands between the Dutch and eventually the British, who would remodel and reequip it into their primary military stronghold in Malabar.

Kottiyoor is an ancient Hindu pilgrim center devoted to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati in Kannur district, Kerala. The temple is situated on the beautiful Sahya mountain range valley and is blessed with abundant natural beauty. The Bavali river with its medicinal waters flow from the Wayanad ghats on the banks of the temple. On the northern side of the river bank, there is a small lake known as 'Thiruvanchira' and here in the midst of this lake is this temple.

The Arakkal Museum in Kannur city is one of the most significant and frequently visited attractions of the south that celebrates the memory and grandeur of Kerala's only Muslim royal family- the Arakkal Ali Rajas. Previously a majestic palace of the royal family and their actual place of residence, this museum is a true testimony to the impeccable Muslim architecture and design. The Durbar Hall of this palace, which was once the official venue of gathering for the kings and their nobles, has now

Built almost 300 years ago, Bekal Fort is considered as one of the largest and most preserved forts in Kerala. Nestled in the lap of nature, Bekal Fort is a historic fort surrounded by a beautiful beach offering an enchanting view of Arabian Sea from its high observation tower where the cannons were placed. The beautiful walkway, illuminated beach and the grand architecture of the Bekal Fort make this place a favourite among the masses.

In the northern tip of Kerala lies the Ananthapura Lake Temple, the only lake temple in Kerala. The rectangular lake, supplied with regular spring water, hosts this magnificent temple. It is considered the moolasthanam (original abode) of Lord Ananthapadmanabha, the deity of the famous Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram. The Legend about the temple associates it with the great mystic and devotee of Lord Vishnu, Sree Vilvamangalathu Swami, who dominates the ancient spiritual lak

One of the oldest Roman catholic churches in Kasargod and located about 16kms from the town centre along the Kumbla–Badiyadka Road. Believed to be the oldest composition in the district, Bela Church was actually constructed in the year 1890.

Manjeshwar Govinda Pai (23 March 1883 – 6 September 1963), also known as Rastrakavi Govinda Pai, was a Kannada poet. He was awarded the first Rashtrakavi title by the Madras Government (Kasaragod district was part of South Kanara district of Madras Presidency prior to the linguistic reorganisation of states on 1 November 1956[2]). Rashtrakavi M. Govinda Pai was the one who put Manjeshwar( Kerala) on the literary map of India.

St. Joseph's Monastery is a well known Christian pilgrim center of Kerala located at Mannanam in the Kottayam district. This charming monastery is built by the famous blessed Father Chavara Kuriakose Elias popularly known as Chavara Achan.

Panachikkad Saraswathi Temple in Kottayam district is considered so powerful a shrine that it is popularly known as the Mookambika of the South. The presiding deity of the temple is Goddess Saraswati (goddess of learning and the arts),

Kalvari Mount is a popular destination in the whole of Idukki district as it provides a view of Reservoir from Idukki to Ayyappancovil on one side and Kamakshy and Mariyapuram villages on the other side.