Author: nikoadmin

Fort Kochi has listed as one of the must-visit places in 2020 by National Geographic Travelers. Last month popular travel magazine Lonely Planet listed Kochi as one of the top cities to travel in 2020. Fort Kochi is considered as one of the busiest ports with a heritage touch. A lot of history is associated with the city. Now the place got the global recognition being the new arts hub.

As listed in National Geographic Travelers magazine it is one of the favourite tourist spots. The main attractions of Fort Kochi include Chinese fishing nets, Vasco de Gama Square, St. Francis church where Vasco de Gama was buried, Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica etc. We can find the traces of the invader’s culture here, especially the Portuguese and the Dutch. The city was under Portuguese for almost 160 years. They built a fort called Fort Immanuel here. Later the Dutch has destroyed the fort, but a church built behind the fort was retained now known as the St. Francis Church. During the Dutch rule, they left their legacy behind here and followed by the British.

Attractions in Fort Kochi :

Kerala Kathakali centre

Dutch Palace

Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica

St Francis Chruch

Indo – Portuguese Museum

Jew Town and Synagogue

Chinese Fishing nets

Maritime Museum

Kochi – Muziris Biennale

Include Fort Kochi in your travel list and experience beauty of the place.

Enriched with scenic beauty and lush hills, Kerala is also known for its tradition and culture. Artforms of Kerala reflect the tradition and custom of the state. These unique art forms are one of the main attractions of Kerala which makes it one of the favourite tourist spots in the world. We are listing here the famous traditional Kerala art forms.

Kathakali

The most famous art form of Kerala. It is a story-based play mainly it depicts stories of Hindu epics. The play is performed with face masks, colourful makeup and unique costumes. The word Kathakali means story play or story art. The play depicts the fight between good and evil characters. The costumes and makeup of Kathakali are very elaborated and makeup differs for different characters. The makeup differs by the shades of character like Paccha for Krishna, Rama and Kathi for Raavana. This is divided into categories like Paccha(green), Kathi(knife), Kari(black), Thaadi(beard) and Minukku(radiant). This art form is mainly expressed through hand gestures called mudras and facial expressions.

Mohiniyattam

Traditional dance form performed by women. Like Kathakali, it is one of the dance forms emerged from Kerala. The name Mohiniyattam means Mohini’s dance, Mohini is considered as one of the avatars of Lord Vishnu. The dance style follows the Natya Shastra in Lasya form. The music played for Mohiniyattam is of Carnatic style.

Theyyam

Venues of major art forms of Kerala are temples and Theyyam is one of the famous art forms mainly popular in the northern side of Kerala. It is a ritual form performed in temples. The performers belong to certain community and Theyyam is performed by them following certain customs and rituals. Theyyam rituals are very colourful. Theyyams are considered as a visual art form of God and blessings from Theyyam performer is considered as God’s blessings. Theyyam is the major attractions of North Kerala temple festivals.

There many art forms in Kerala such as Ottamthullal, Chakyar Kootu, Padayani, Koodiyattam, Margamkali etc. Kerala Kalamandalam is one of the learning centres for the performing arts. Visit Kerala and experience the traditional art forms of Kerala.

Pic courtesy : Kerala Tourism

Kerala is one of the famous tourist destination spots in the world. God’s Own Country is known for its backwaters, scenic beauty and hill stations. Another factor which attracts travellers is the various foods. Kerala is a state where we can get both vegetarian and non-vegetarian foods.

Here we are listing the top 5 dishes which you should try on your Kerala trip.

1.Kerala Sadya

The ela sadya is the traditional dish of Kerala. It is prepared mainly on all occasions, festivals and weddings. Served with rice this delicious meal has many sub dishes with different flavours. Kerala festival Onam is incomplete without onasadya. The sub dishes of the sadya include pickle, pachadi, kichadi, cabbage thoran, kootu curry, errissery and avial. Sadya includes the payasam(sweet dish) of different flavours.

2. Appam

Famous Kerala breakfast food prepared with fermented coconut flour, coconut water and coconut milk in the form of a pancake which is thick in the centre and has crispy edges. The combo of Appam with stew is one of the main dishes in Christian weddings and celebrations like Christmas.

3. Puttu

Puttu is one of the most famous recipes of Kerala which is made up of rice flour and grated coconut. Commonly this dish is made with rice flour steamed in metal or bamboo but it can be made with ragi, wheat, oats etc. Also, it can be prepared using a coconut shell which is commonly known as “ Chiratta puttu”.

4. Idiyyappam

Idiyyappam is also known as “nooluappam” is one of the staple food in Kerala. This breakfast item is made with rice flour, salt and water. Idiyappam and egg curry are one of the most loved breakfast combinations in Kerala.

5. Banana Fritters

Banana fritters are the traditional tea time snack commonly known as Pazham pori and Ethakka appam. They are fried ripe bananas dipped in plain flour.

Cochin, known as the financial, commercial and industrial city of Kerala is one of the finest places to shop in India. Cochin is the hub of modernity with sparks of tradition which makes it a unique place for shopping. This mix in tradition and culture also makes the city favorite destination spot for tourists. Here we are listing the best places to go shopping in Kochi.

1.LuLu Mall

The largest mall in India in terms of area is a one-stop destination for shopping, entertainment and dining in Ernakulam. The mall consists of shops of many brands. LuLu Hypermarket is one of the main attraction of the mall, it consists of products ranging from food, household objects etc. The mall has a food area to accommodate 2500 people.

2.Jew Town

Jew Town is the place between Mattancherry Palace and Jewish Synagogue. The area is known for its antique collections. Many people visit Jew town for the antique furniture, the rare artefacts etc. Jew Town is famous among the tourists for its antique collections.

3.Broadway

Broadway is one of the oldest shopping areas in the city. The area is known for affordable rates. The area will be crowded at the time of Christmas, Onam and Vishu. At broadway, everything will be available from household items to hardware on cheap rates.

4.Spice Market

Spice Market at Mattancherry is famous for its high-quality spices. The market consists of all spices like pepper, cardamom, turmeric, star anise, clove etc. The enchanting aroma of the spices draws us to the market.

5.Mahatma Gandhi Road

MG road is one of the commercial streets of the city. It has standalone local and international stores like textile shops, jewellery etc. and making it a wedding special hub in Kochi.

There many malls and areas where you can extend the shopping like Centre Square, Oberon Mall, Marine Drive, Penta Menaka etc. Niko Hotels is easily accessible from almost the malls and shopping areas. Visit Kochi and stay in the best hotel in Kochi.

A quaint hamlet nestled in the heart of the Kottayam which drawn many travellers to the place Malarickal. Malarickal became a tourist spot in the last couple of weeks when the pink water lilies bloomed in 16 areas in the village. The lush green with stretched backwater destination attracts the visitors to its mesmerizing beauty. The water lilies blossoms in the area after the monsoon rains which occur between September and October. The best time to witness the carpet pink petals is in morning and evening. The water lilies are spread over 600 acres of land.

The panchayat has initiated an eco-tourism project here and District Tourism Promotion Council, Kottayam is planning to add boating and other activities. Kumarakom, the famous backwater destination is located near Malarickal village.

Courtesy: Kerala Tourism

Lonely Planet, the famous travel guide has announced the top 10 cities to travel in 2020. Kochi, from Kerala, is the only destination from India that hit the list. The survey is done by analysing the destinations attracted the travellers and also the spots they visit again. It is also determined by its topicality, uniqueness and sustainable travel.

Kochi holds the seventh position in the list which was topped by Salzburg, Austria. Washington D.C and Cairo listed on second and third spot respectively. Lonely Planet described Salzburg as the “heart stealer of Alpine City”

According to the Lonely Planet Kochi is a hotspot which has been drawing travellers over many years. The serene beauty and magnificent estuary have attracted many tourists. Kochi has driven by the culture of Portuguese, Dutch and British during their rule in the city. The giant Chinese fishing nets, Jewish Synagogue, ancient mosques, Portuguese and Dutch era houses and remains of British Raj has fascinated the tourists and also it blends medieval Portugal, Holland and the English culture in the tropical Malabar Coast. It is also an important centre of the Kerala arts like Kathakali and Kalaripayattu. Tourists find the place very comfortable to stay with many hotels to stay and captivating places to visit. Kochi also promotes sustainable travel.

Here are the top ten cities to travel in 2020 according to Lonely Planet:

Salzburg (Austria)
Washington, D.C. (United States)
Cairo (Egypt)
Galway (Ireland)
Bonn (Germany)
La Paz (Bolivia)
Kochi (India)
Vancouver (Canada)
Dubai (United Arab Emirates)
Denver (United States)

Courtesy: Lonely Planet

Diwali is one of the most celebrated festivals in India. Known as festivals of lights, it symbolises the victory of good over evil. During this five-day celebration, home, offices are decorated with lights. Diwali generally occurs between mid-October to mid-November. Diwali is a Sanskrit word which means a series of lights. In India, the festival varies with the regions and traditions also differ accordingly. As Diwali is considered as the success of light over darkness, homes, offices are decorated with lights, lamps and also decorating floors with rangoli. The festival also conveys the message of share and care, as it gives an opportunity for a bonding period between families, communities etc. and new clothes, sweets, gifts etc are shared with dear ones.

Diwali celebration starts with Dhanteras. The day starts with cleaning the home followed by creating colourful rangoli’s and lighting up the diyas in earthen pots. The next day is Naraka Chaturdasi, also known as ‘Chhoti Diwali’. It is considered as the day Lord Krishna killed Narakasura. A variety of sweets are prepared on that day. Naraka Chaturdasi is followed by Lakshmi Pujan, it is considered as the main festival. The earthen oil lamps are illuminated whole the day and diyas are streamed in rivers. On the day people bursts fireworks and share sweets among family. Lakshmi puja is an offering towards the Goddess Lakshmi, in some regions like West Bengal the puja ritual focuses on Goddess Kali. Several hymns of Hindu Gods Rama, Krishna etc. are recited on the day. Families exchange new clothes and sweets between them.

The day after Deepavali is Govardhan pooja also known as Annakut and Balipratipada. This is mainly celebrated as the win of Rama over Bali and also Lord Krishna helping the people by lifting the Govardhan mountain. The last day is Bhai Duj which is celebrated as a symbol of brother-sister relationship. Like all festivals, Diwali is also celebrated to pass the message of family bonding, sharing and enjoyment.

God’s Own Country, Kerala, as the name suggests, is known for its scenic beauty. So, it is one of the best tourist spots in the world. Here we are listing the best places to visit in Kerala.

Kochi

The financial capital of Kerala, Kochi is one of the major tourist destination spots in Kerala. It has a connection with the history and culture but by maintaining this tradition too it is the most developed city in Kerala. The port city is often known as the “Queen of Arabian Sea”. The main attractions of the city include Fort Kochi where we can find the Chinese nets, Indo Portuguese museum, Fort Kochi museum etc. , Vypin, Mattanchery, Marine Drive etc.

Alappuzha

Alappuzha, the ‘Venice of the East’ is one of the most popular backwater destinations in Kerala. Its houseboats, serene beauty and special food are the main tourist attractions. A houseboat vacation is a must for a tourist visiting Kerala. The serene beauty of Alappuzha includes its paddy fields at the rice bowl of Kerala in Kuttanad with streams, canals and lush green coconut fields. Other attractions include food especially special fish dishes, the Cheerappanchira, Allepey beach, boat races etc.

Munnar

Munnar, the most popular hill station in Kerala. Domed with tea estates this is one of the beauties of God’s Own Country. The hills are specially designed for tea plantations. Being one of the most loved tourist places it has many lavish hotels, resorts and homestays. Other attractions include Eravikulam National park, Tea Museum, Mattupetty dam etc.

Wayanad

Wayanad, the land of paddy fields is known for the greenery of the place. Canopied in the Western Ghats it is a popular hill station in India. The Edakkal caves in Wayanad are said to have of historic importance with 6000 old rock engravings. Wayanad is a place where we can see plenty of agriculture plantations, the main agricultural crops include coffee, tea, cocoa, rice, spices, fruits etc. Other attractions include Wayanad wildlife sanctuary, Banasura Sagar dam, Kuruva island etc.

The above are some of the main tourist attractions of Kerala other include Kovalam, Kuttanadu, Thekkady, Thrissur, Vagamon, Idukki, Kozhikode etc.

Flower Carpet Welcome

The harvest festival is celebrated in the Malayalam month of Chingam to welcome king Mahabali, whose reign is hailed as a period of prosperity, justice and happiness. The day of his annual visit is celebrated as Thiruvonam, which falls on September 11th this year. Malayalees decorate their homes with floral, wear new clothes and prepare a feast to welcome their benevolent king.

Onavillu Thiruvananthapuram

An Onavillu is a red painted bow dedicated to the incarnations of Lord Vishnu with tassels on either end. Onavillu, a tradition unique to Thiruvananthapuram has been made for centuries by members of heritage Agraharams. During Onam festive season Onavillu is presented to the Lord Padmanabha.

Pulikali Thrissur

An annual event usually takes place on Naalam Onam to discover the inner tiger in you along with thousands of men borrowing the stripes of the tiger and dancing to the thumping beats of rural instruments, there are hunters too. This year Swaraj round Thrissur puli kali is on September 14th 4 PM to 8 PM.

Thrikkakara Temple Festival

Thrikkakara Temple Kochi, the only temple dedicated to Vamana has a special significance, during Onam. It is believed that Mahabali worshipped the Siva temple here and the belief is that he was sent to the netherworld at Thrikkakara. The temple festival begins 10 days before Thiruvonam the Pakalpooram is conducted on September 10 with 9 elephants is the main attraction.

Onam is celebrated with pookalams, sadhya, Vallam Kali and Thiruvathira Kali. Sadhya is the grand feast with many dishes. Onam sadhya as the name suggests is the feast prepared on Onam. It consists of different types of dishes in varieties. A clean banana leaf is spread out with the end towards the left, traditionally the meal is served on mats laid on the floor. The papadam is served to the extreme left of the leaf, on top of pappadam a banana is placed.

Then from the right of pappadam, banana chips and other fries are served. After this, the Ginger, Lime and Mango pickle is served. Next, the pachadi of pineapple, kichadi of Cucumber, Cabbage Thoran, Kootu Curry, Erissery along with Avial is served.

Rice is served at the centre when the guest sits down to eat. Over the rice parippu and the ghee is poured, then in the second helpings, Sambar and following Rasam is served on top of the rice. After this, the sweet dishes are served beginning with Adaprathaman followed by Parippupayasam mainly. Different regions in Kerala serve different type payasam like pal payasam, palada etc

Before serving the meal a full course meal is served in front of Lord Ganapathi, with a Lighted oil lamp to complete the rituals.