Priyadarshini Planetarium, Thiruvananthapuram

Priyadarsini planetarium, in Thiruvananthapuram is one of the most versatile planetaria in the whole of India. The GM-II projector can make the impression of real (day and night) and can simulate the night sky over any location on earth on any night up to 12,500 years to both past and future.

A visitor to this theatre at the planetarium can see the details of the surface not only the moon and the stars, but also the whole visible galaxies of the universe. The fascinating world of astronomy is pulled before us to just an arms length away.

School kids from all over Kerala, nearing Tamil Nadu and Karnataka visit this planetarium to enrich themselves with the sightings of far and off corners of the universe.

Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, Kerala

One of a place for bird watching, 253 species of birds found in just 25 Sq. Km area of Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Thattekad.

Renowned ornithologist Salim Ali described Thattekad as ‘the richest bird habitat in peninsular India’. Salim Ali bird sanctuary in Thattekad is a paradise of bird-watchers. Within a mere 25 sq km area, you can spot at least 270 species of birds.

The sanctuary has tropical evergreen and deciduous forests, with the urban hussle-bussle just a few km away. The chirps and fluttering of the winged guests is surely a treat for eyes and ears. The wildlife here includes elephants and sloth bear.

Dr. Salim Ali reported about 167 bird species while Bombay Natural History Society identified 253.

Reaching Thattekad
It is 53 km from Kochi, the biggest city in Kerala. You will ferry-cross River Periyar to reach here.

Munnar Hill Station, Kerala

Munnar, situated at 1600 metres above sea level is the preferred summer location for Indians and foreigners alike. This is true ever since the British first reached this scenic hill-station two centuries ago.

Endless Tea plantations, waterfalls, wildlife, and unique Neelakurinji, the plant that blooms and covers entire hill range once in every 12 years make Munnar, traveler’s paradise. Anamudi, the highest peak (2695 m above sea level) in South India is also located here. Anamudi hill (or mountain) is tickles the adverturism in you and it is ideal spot for trekking and camping.

Like all tours in Kerala, Munnar also offers the richness of nature. The tea and coffee plantations you see here are the highest in the whole world. Tea estates owned by different companies usually have some tusked visitors from the nearby forest. The people working in tea plantations are trained to avoid contact with an elephant. One thing the workers do while they spot a tusker nearby is to move to among the tea plants and run downwards. There is no report of wild animals attacking people here for a long time.

Rajamalai, famous for Nilgiri Tahr is just one-hour drive from Munnar town.

Kovalam Places to Visit in Kerala

Kovalam, the world famous beach in the capital city of Kerala, lures tourists from around the world with its golden sandy shore, dotted coconuts palms, cool breeze and gentle surfs.

Kovalam, the most renowned Indian beach was the favorite haven of ‘Hyppies’ a couple of decades ago. The beauty of this laid-back fisherman village was first introduced to the world by their singing about this palm grove beach. Kovalam has actually three beaches, the southern most one is the LightHouse beach, which spots a picturesque 18th century light house atop a hill. The golden sand filled beach is ideal location for sunbath and the calm water is ideal for surfing and swimming.

The northern most, samudra beach is still a laid back and less frequented beach. The central one is rocky Eve’s beach, locally called Hawwah beach.

Kovalam is also location for a nice window-shopping. Here you will find souvenirs to take home, or make an ideal gift. Handicrafts produce of coconut shell and husk fits in every living room. The handicrafts come in infinite variety, you can buy Kathakali face, mirrors and decorative items adorned with seashells and a lot more.

Just four km from here is Vizhinjam fishing harbour, which is also the location for a proposed seaport and a hydal electricity project.

In Kovalam, you can enjoy a cruise on a local fishing country boat during sunrise or sunset.

Napier Museum Thiruvananthapuram

Located in the city of Trivandrum, Napier Museum stands tall bearing the tradition of more than a millennium. The oldest Indian Museum, Napier museum was constructed under the aegis of Travancore ruler, and named after the then Madras Governor, John Napier.

It is an archeological wonder, which is a combination of Kerala, Chinese and European architecture. The inside of Napier Museum is always cooled better than an air conditioner, even while the outside melts under the midday sun.

Napier Museum houses a rare collection of archaeological and historic artifacts. Idols, ancient ornaments, coins etc take you to the past. Some curious items at Napier Museum include the seven concentric balls carved out of a single ivory piece, a heavy, large temple chariot, which depicts epic moments, life-size kathakali models etc.

For those who want to take a scoop into the past can find the right haven in Napier Museum.

Nearer to Napier Museum is the Zoological garden, which is among the oldest in India, Sree Chitra Art Gallery where old and new paintings are displayed, an observatory and a Science and Technology Museum.