kuttanaad

It is the major rice granary of Kerala, where vast stretches of verdant paddy fields are interlaced with enchanting backwaters create some of the unforgettable sights.

Kuttanad, the rice bowl of Kerala is all about an agrarian community, striking a chord of harmony with its physical setting. Noted for its farming below sea level (about 4 to 10 feet) the land of Kuttanad possesses a socio-cultural fabric of its own. Four major rivers in Kerala viz. Pampa, Meenachil, Achankovil and Manimala flow into the region.

Kuttanad can be accessed from places on the National Highway- 47 from Harippad to Alappuzha town in the District of Alappuzha, and from places like Thiruvalla and Changanasserry on the Main Central (MC) Road going through the District of Kottayam.

The most popular route taken to get close and explore Kuttanad is the Alappuzha-Changanasserry road. This road goes through the heart of Kuttanad and gives visitors plenty of options to watch the day-to-day life at Kuttanad. The best thing for a visitor to Kuttanad is that, one can take deviations from either side of the Alappuzha-Chanaganasserry road to reach villages, predominantly consisting of farmers. During the harvest season the vast expanse of paddy fields, at some places dotted with islets of coconut trees, will be busy with farmers engrossed in different farming activities;done in the traditional manner. Quite early in the morning itself one can sight the women folk heading towards the paddy fields carrying their lunch box and sickle, and on the other hand men could be seen already on the fields till the land, sowing the seeds, getting rid of weeds, diverting water channels etc.

The Kuttanad area is also rich in avian population, and one can easily find flocks of parrots hovering in the paddy fields, especially those fields with rice stalks in bloom. You may also come across a black blanket sweeping across the sky, which on close look will reveal as yet another flock of birds. And this time its is the darter birds, which haunt the backwaters in and around Kuttanad and the adjoiningVembanad Lake.

As you explore the villages, don't forget to take a walk by the numerous canals that crisscross Kuttanad, which are lined by tall coconut trees swaying in the breeze. During most part of the day, these canal stretches would be abuzz with different activities. There will be vendors on boat selling vegetables, grocery and fish to households on the banks of these canals. You would also come across big country boats called Kettu Vallams on which goods like coconut husk, rice grains etc. are transported to nearby markets in bulk. Among the sights on the backwaters here at Kuttanad, the most fascinating obviously is that of the ducks, quacking together in high decibels and moving across the backwaters in large numbers;shepherded by men on small boats. One can also catch men plying on the backwater;some diving down to collect lime shells from the depths and others fishing with their nets and traditional cane basket called Ottal.

For those interested in trying out few local dishes may do so by dropping at the small traditionally built wayside eateries, which are quite famous for backwater fish delicacies and tapioca. A popular naturally extracted beverage is the toddy, which is available in plenty and enjoyed by many for its speciality.

You may also find Kuttanad, a bit more exciting, if you hire a boat. You can hire motorboats, houseboats etc. from the boat jetty operated by the government as well as private groups near the KSRTC Bus Station at Alappuzha or else may get on one from places like Kidangara, which is on the Alappuzha-Changanasserry road. Some of the places worth visiting in the Kuttanad area are Nedumudy, Kaavalam, Champakkulam etc.

Getting there:

Nearest railway station: Alappuzha. 
Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, Nedumbassery, about 85 km from Alappuzha

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Ashtamudi

Catch a glimpse of one of the many splendours of Ashtamudi backwaters. As the boatman gently dips his paddle, without disturbing the prevailing calm, the ripples spread out gently in the shimmering golden hue of the sun.

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Maatupetty

Cradled by the undulating plantation hills of Munnar, and not far away from the Anamudi peak is Mattupetty. Situated in the famous hill town of Munnar, Mattupetty located 13 km from Munnar is situated at a height of 1700 m, and is a delight for nature lovers.

Mattupetty offers many fascinating sights to relish. Besides the lush green tea plantations, and the rolling grasslands, the Shola forests in and around Mattupetty are ideal for trekking and are habitat to a variety of birds. Rivulets and cascades crisscross the terrain here, which again adds more attraction to the place.

One of the main attractions in Mattupetty is the beautiful lake, and the Mattupetty Dam, which are ideal picnic spots. The District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC), Idukki provides boating facilities in the Mattupetty Dam. Speed launch, slow speedboat and motorboats are available on hire. Other nearby places of interest includes the picturesque Kundala tea plantations and the Kundala Lake.

Of all the main attractions at Mattupetty is the dairy farm, run by the Indo-Swiss Livestock Project. The dairy farm is a unique one of its kind with several varieties of high-yielding cattle being reared.

Getting there:

By road: Mattupetty is just a 13 kms drive from Munnar.
Nearest railway station: Ernakulam, about 130 km from Munnar.
Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, about 110 km from Munnar.

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Iravikulam National Park,Munnar

It is an ideal place for seeing the biodiversity of high elevation shola-grassland ecosystem. Visitors are taken to Rajamalai in forest dept vehicles and given an opportunity to see all this. Private vehicles are not allowed here. The National Park is usually closed at the time of calving of Nilgiri Tahr which is usually during the early months of every year.

Location: 15 km from Munnar.
Visiting hours: 7:00 am to 6:00 pm.

A sanctuary for the endangered mountain goat of South India, the Nilgiri Tahr (Hemitragus hylocrious), the Eravikulam National Park stands out for the stark beauty of its rolling grasslands and sholas, spread over 97 sq km in the Kannan devan hills.

Anamudi, the highest peak (2695 m) south of Himalayas, stands majestically in the core area of the national park. The slopes of the hills abound in many kinds of rare flora which include rare terrestrial and epiphytic orchids, and beautiful wild balsams. Important fauna here are the Nilgiri Tahr, Nilgiri Langur, leopard, tiger, Indian bison, etc.

Rajamalai is the tourism zone of the National Park, where the visitors are taken in forest dept vehicles and introduced to the shola - grassland eco system unique to this region. There is a very informative interpretation centre at Rajamalai.

A protected area, the sanctuary is divided into three regions - the core area, the buffer area and the tourism area. Visitors are allowed only to the tourism area - Rajamalai - the region lying beyond the road entry into Eravikulam. Here one can observe the Nilgiri Tahr at close quarters.

Don't make this your destination during the early months of the year, the park may be closed for visitors because it is calving time of the Tahr.

Getting there: Eravikulam is 15 km from Munnar.

Nearest railway station: Kottayam, about 142 km from Munnar; Ernakulam, about 130 km from Munnar.
Nearest airport: Madurai (Tamilnadu) about 142 km; Cochin International Airport, about 150 km.

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Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary

The Chinnar Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the rain shadow region of Western Ghats of Kerala, India., and represents a large number of plants and animals unique to the thorny vegetation.

Apart from the dry thorn forests, due to the significant variation in altitude and rainfall, it has a wide array of habitat types like deciduous forests, dry thorny forest, riparian types, sholas and grasslands that are interspersed with plains, hillocks, rocks and cliffs which provide microhabitats for varied forms of life. It is an abode of reptilian fauna and the richest in Kerala in terms of the number of species. Albizia lathamii, a critically endangered species has been reported from the dry forests of Chinnar. It is a well known repository of medicinal plants. The riverine forests along Chinnar and Pambar support a healthy population of Grizzled Giant Squirrel. The famous ‘white bison of Manjampatti’ has been recently reported from Chinnar. With 225 species of birds, Chinnar is rich in avian diversity. In association with the neighbouring PAs, Chinnar forms part of a viable conservation unit.

Location: About 60 km from Munnar, Idukki district.

A unique thorny scrub forest with xerophyte species, Chinnar is the habitat for the endangered Giant Grizzled Squirrel of India. Their total number here would be less than 200. Located in the rain shadow area of the Western Ghats, unlike other sanctuaries in Kerala, Chinnar gets only less than two months of rain every year. Rich in wildlife, the mixed deciduous forests here are ideal for trekking.

An extensive Sandalwood forest nearby is an added attraction at Chinnar. This is also an ideal place for watching herds of gaur and elephants amble past. Dry deciduous forests, high sholas and some grasslands add to the diversity of the sanctuary. As one travels from Karimuthi to Chinnar, elephants, spotted deer, sambar, hanuman langur and even peacocks can be spotted on either side of the road.

Getting there:

Nearest railway station: Ernakulam about 130 km from Munnar. .
Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, about 150 km from Munnar.

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Athirampilly-vaazhachaal

Athirappally Waterfalls is located 78 kms from Kochi (Cochin), located at the entrance to Sholayar ranges, this waterfall is a popular picnic spot. Affording to the onlookers, one of the most bewitching sights, Athirappally Falls is about 80 feet high and located in the forest area.   Combined with the greenery, it infuses freshness into any tired soul.  The Athirapally Falls join the Chalakkudy River after plummeting a drop of 80 feet.

A tranquil and much needed escape from the troubles and stress of life. Let the soothing sounds take you to some of natures most relaxing places - the beautiful waterfalls of Athirampally and Vazhachal (Prounced as vaazhachaal).

The charm of the Athirampally and Vazhachal nature cannot be described by words, Starting calmly from the high ranges, and crashing through gorges overhung with trees, these waterfall is one of the best places in India to re-capture a real sense of the classical idea of the 'Picturesque' - not just calm and sweet, but something wild and natural.

Perched high above in the the Sholayar forest ranges on the fringes of Kerala's famed rain forests, the waterfalls provides a restful escape for those wanting to leave the hurried pace of city life behind. wild and beautiful, unspoilt by the passing of time.

Both this waterfalls are a part of the Chalakudy river and 5 km apart on the road to hill station (valparai) which has excellent tea estate and is one of India's highest elephant density habitats and is a crucial corridor between Parambikulam and Malayattur

Perched high above in the the Sholayar forest ranges on the fringes of Kerala's famed rain forests, the Athirapalli waterfalls provides a restful escape for those wanting to leave the hurried pace of city life behind. The water plunges and joins to the Chalakudi River. The scenic attraction of Vazhachal, the other picnic spot is just a drive from Athirampally. These scintillating waterfalls in thick green forest are a part of the Chalakudy river stream.

The riparian forests of the Chalakudy River have revealed the existence of a thick riparian vegetation of more than 10 metres width for a distance of 10.5 km downstream from Peringalkuth, covering an area of 58.5 hectares. Out of this, 26.4 hectares lie within the Vazachal area, including three large islands densely covered by riparian forests.

The riparian forests of the area have been found to be characterised by the presence of typical riparian species of plants, in addition to evergreen and semi-evergreen species.Out of the 319 species of flowering plants identified from the study area, 24 are endemic species of the Western Ghats and 10 are rare and endangered.

Moreover, the Chalakudy River is known for its diversity, as it contains 85 species of fresh water fishes out of the 152 species known from Kerala. Among these, 35 are endemic species of the Western Ghats and nine are considered to be endangered.

Nearby Places of Interest Vazhachal Waterfalls The Vazhachal waterfall is a scenic and popular waterfall on the edge of the Sholayar forest range in Kerala. The Vazhachal is part of the Chalakkudy River. Its cool, misty waters cascading down with the backdrop of thick green forest and rocky terrain are a scintillating experience for visitors. Charpa Falls To the east of athirappilly is the enchanting but lesser known Charpa falls which plunges on to the road during monsoon. It is a sight to watch and enjoy. Anakkayam About 20 km from Chalakudy on the sholayar peringalkuthu route, Anakkayam means the "Elephant pit". It is noted for a lake with cool and placid waters. The place is a forest untouched by human encroachments and is a haven for those who wish to escape from concrete jungles. It attracts the visitor with its bubbling streams, natural rock formations and flora. Water Theme Parks For those who want a little extra recreation there are two water theme parks nearby with plenty of adventure games and water sports. Malakapara Tea Gardens For the adventurous a family safari through the deep forest and high ranges (Western Ghats) complemented with lots of hairpin curves takes you to the fascinating sculptured beauty of Malakapara tea Gardens. Along the route if you are lucky you may end up seeing some good wildlife. Thumpurmuzhi Gardens Thumpurmuzhi is an ideal stopover with its garden, scenic splendor and a classic waterfall. Peringalkuthu & Sholayar Dams Deep in the forest on the way to Valpara are the two dams that generate hydroelectric power to the state. Entry to the dam site is with special permission only. Vazhachal Forest Gardens With the abundant flora and even herbal plantation maintained by the forest department, Vazhachal is a Botanist's treasure trove.

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Kumarakom

Location: 16 km away from Kottayam town, Central Kerala.

The village of Kumarakom is a cluster of little islands on the Vembanad Lake, and is part of the Kuttanad region. The bird sanctuary here, which is spread across 14 acres is a favourite haunt of migratory birds and an ornithologist's paradise. Egrets, darters, herons, teals, waterfowls, cuckoo, wild duck and migratory birds like the Siberian Stork visit here in flocks and are a fascinate the visitors.

An enchanting backwater destination, Kumarakom offers visitors many other leisure options. Boating and fishing facilities are available at the Taj Garden Retreat, a sprawling old bungalow-turned-resort.

Waterscapes, the backwater resort of the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation has independent cottages built on stilts, set amidst coconut groves and panoramic view of the backwaters. Holiday packages involving houseboats, traditional Kettuvalloms (rice barges) offer great experiences.

Getting there:

Nearest railway station: Kottayam, about 16 km.
Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, about 76 km from Kottayam town.

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Fort Kochi

Location: About 13 km from Ernakulam town.

To explore the historic town of Fort Kochi, there is no better choice than setting out on foot. Relax, breathe deep and come out in cotton dresses, soft shoes and yes - a straw hat. At each and every nook of this island steeped in history, there is something amusing awaiting you. It is a world of its own, retaining the specimens of a bygone era and still proud of those days. If you can smell the past, nothing can stop you from walking through these streets.

Walking straight through the K. J. Herschel Road and turning left, you can have a glimpse of Fort Immanuel. This bastion once belonged to the Portuguese and is a symbol of the strategic alliance which existed between the Maharaja of Cochin and the Monarch of Portugal, after whom the fort is named. This fort was built in 1503 and reinforced in 1538. Walking a bit further, you come across the Dutch cemetery. Consecrated in 1724 and managed by the Church of South India, the tomb stones here silently remind visitors of those Europeans who left their homeland to expand their colonial empires.

The next spot to watch is the ancient Thakur House, which stands erect as a concrete specimen of the colonial era. The building is simply graceful. Formerly known as Kunal or Hill Bungalow, it was home to the managers of the National Bank of India during the British rule. Now, it belongs to the Thakur and Company, renowned tea trading firm.

Walk on and there is another colonial structure awaiting you - David Hall. It was built around 1695 by the Dutch East India Company. The hall is associated with Hendrik Adriaan van Reed tot Drakeston, renowned Dutch commander, who is more admired for his monumental book on the flora of Kerala namely Hortus Malabaricus. However, David Hall is named after David Koder, a later occupant of the hall.

Walking past the Parade Ground, the four acres of ground where the Portuguese, the Dutch and the British had once conducted military parades, you reach the St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India. It has passed through many phases ever since the Portuguese built it in 1503. Now the church is under the Church of South India. By the way, it was in this church that Vasco-da Gama had been buried and his tombstone can still be seen.

The Church Road is a nice place to walk, with the cool breeze from the Arabian Sea caressing your body. Walk down a bit closer to the sea and there is the Cochin Club, home to an impressive library and collection of sporting trophies. Set in a beautifully landscaped park, the club still retains its British ambience.

Walking back to the Church Road, on the left side, you would stumble across another majestic mansion, the Bastion Bungalow. This wonderful structure of Indo-European style had been built in 1667 and is named after its location on the site of the Stromberg Bastion of the old Dutch fort. Now it is the official residence of the Sub Collector.

The Vasco-da Gama square is nearby. A narrow promenade, this is an ideal place to relax a little. Stalls full of delicious seafood and tender coconuts are simply tempting. Savour a bit and feed your eyes on the Chinese fishing nets, being raised and lowered. These nets had been erected here between AD 1350 and 1450 by the traders from the court of Kublai Khan.

Refreshed, you can now proceed to the Pierce Leslie Bungalow, a charming mansion, which once had been the office of Pierce Leslie and Co., coffee merchants of yesteryears. This building reflects Portuguese, Dutch and local influences. Its waterfront verandahs are an added attraction. Turning right, you come to the Old Harbour House, built in 1808 and owned by Carriet Moran and Co, renowned tea brokers. Nearby is the Koder House, the magnificent building constructed by Samuel S. Koder of the Cochin Electric Company in 1808. This structure shows the transition from colonial to Indo-European architecture.

Turn further right and you reach the Princess Street. Mind having some fresh flowers from the shops here. One of the earliest streets of the area, this road has European style residences on both its sides. Located here is the Loafer's Corner, the traditional hangout for the jovial and fun loving people of Kochi.

Walking northwards from the Loafer's corner, you come across Santa Cruz Basilica, the historic church built by the Portuguese and elevated to a cathedral by Pope Paul IV in 1558. In 1984, Pope John Paul II declared it as a Basilica. After having a quick look at the Burgher street and the Delta Study, a heritage bungalow built in the year 1808 and now functioning as a high school, you walk down, once again to the Princess Street and then to the Rose Street. There you would find Vasco house, believed to be the residence of Vasco-da Gama. This traditional and typical European house is one of the oldest of Portuguese residences in Kochi.

Turning left, you walk over to the Ridsdale Road to find the VOC gate, the large wooden gate facing the Parade ground. The gate, built in 1740, gets its name from the monogram (VOC) of the Dutch East India Company on it. Close by is the United Club, once one of the four elite clubs of the British in Kochi. Now, it serves as a classroom for the nearby St. Francis Primary School.

Walking straight, you reach the end of the road and there is the Bishop's house, built in the year of 1506. It had once been the residence of the Portuguese Governor and is set on a small hillock near the Parade Ground. The facade of the house has large Gothic arches and the building was acquired by Dom Jos Gomes Ferreira, the 27th Bishop of the Diocese of Cochin whose jurisdiction extended over Burma, Malaya and Ceylon apart from India.

Yes, now it is time to wind up the walk. With the feel of the bygone days still lingering in your minds, mesmerizing sights staying back in your eyes and your taste buds yearning again for the delicacies and it is not at all a sin, if you feel like another walk!

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IDUKKI

 Craggy mountains, dense forests, and green hummocks and hillocks make up the landscape of Idukki- the largest district in Kerala, which covers nearly 13% of the state’s total area. The dams on the Periyar River, numerous trekking trails, waterfalls and several viewpoints make Idukki the perfect place for an exciting holiday. 

Much sought after for its wildlife treasures, tea plantations and a repository of rich spices, Idukki mesmerizes you with its beauty and discreet wilderness. Idukki owes its fertile soil to the three main rivers of the region - Periyar, Thalayar, Thodupuzhayar and their tributaries.

The River Pamba also has it origin here. The wildlife here is similar to that of Thekkady. One can see wildlife in abundance near the  Idukki Arch Dam. The Lake on the three sides of the sanctuary offers a panoramic view to the tourists
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Fact File
Area	5105.22sq kms
Population	11,29,221
Best time to visit	September to March
Temperature	20 – 28 Degree Celsius
STD Code	04862

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ERNAKULAM

Ernakulam, also referred to as Cochin, is called the Queen of the Arabian Sea. The commercial hub of Kerala, it is a fast growing city abuzz with industries, shopping malls, cinema houses, hotels and restaurants. Known for its Chinese fishing nets, churches, synagogues and the spectacular backwaters, Cochin is a developed city that has preserved its natural beauty. The town has three main parts- Fort Cochin, Willingdon Island and Ernakulam. Fort Cochin (Fort Kochi) occupies the Southern cape on the seaward side of the Bay. Willingdon Island is a man-made island which was created from the sand dug out from deepening the port. Across the causeway from Willingdon Island is Ernakulam. The Bolghatty Island, a long narrow peninsula, is situated at the opposite side of Ernakulam jetty. The Vypeen Island is situated beyond Bolghatty Island. 

Ernakulam (or Cochin) is located on the coast of the Arabian Sea with Allapuzha on the South, Idukki on the East and Thrissur on the North. The commercial capital and of Kerala, Ernakulam, is one of the finest natural harbours in the world which is a major centre of trade and commerce.

Fact File
Area	2407 sq kms
Population	3,105,798
Best time to visit	September to February
Temperature	23 – 32 Degree Celsius
STD Code	0484

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ALAPUZHA{Alleppey}

Also known as the Venice of the East, Alappuzha is famous for its breathtaking backwaters and canals. Situated at the south western tip of the Vembanad Lake, Alappuzha is a small strip of land sandwiched between the Vembanad Lake and the Arabian Sea. The Nehru Trophy snake boat race held on the second Saturday of August (During Onam) every year, at the Punnamada Backwaters is a real feast for the eyes! Alappuzha is also a major centre producing coir products in Kerala.

Kuttanad, the rice bowl of Kerala, is a little hamlet with unending stretches of paddy fields, small streams and canals lined by lush green coconut palms. The village was known from as early as the Sangam Age. History says that Alappuzha had trade relations with ancient Greece and Rome in the B.C years and in the Middle Ages.

The vast expanse of lakes and canals has made the place a busy inland fishing port. Already one of the major tourism spots of Kerala, the place has greater scope for the lake side tourism which is a thriving business now.

Fact File
Area	1414 sq kms
Population	2,105, 349
Best time to visit	August to March end
Temperature	20 – 35 Degree Celsius
STD Code	0477

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Munnar is located in the Idukki district of Kerala. It is by far one of the most important hill stations in south India. Situated on the banks of the Nallathanni Muthirappuzha and Kundaly rivers Munnar rightly gets its name from the Tamil words Munnu meaning Three and Aaru meaning River. Covering an area of 557 km sq this mesmerizing hill resort is one of the major causes behind the successful tourism in Kerala. 

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ARTS

Kerala has evolved from very ancient days its typical dance forms which are highly expressive of the way of living and the outlook of its people.

Kathakali
Distinct Classical Dance of Kerala

Kathakali is the most refined, the most scientific and elaborately defined dance drama of Kerala. The stories are selected from epics and mythologies and the actor expresses himself through mime, hand gesture, eye movements and highly complicated steps. Kathakali is a unique combination of the insight of an actor, dancer, singer, drummer, sculptor, designer and dreamer.

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Mohiniyattam
A Classical Dance of Kerala.

Mohiniyattam is a typical dance form of Kerala which has had a chequered history. Literally it means the dances of the enchantress. Mohiniyattam, even the costumes and the make up having a distinctiveness of their own. In fact, Mohiniyattam as a dance form has been developed in Kalamandalam to such a perfection as to attract the attention of students and teachers of art from other parts of India and even abroad.

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Kalaripayattu
Is a form of martial art

The training consists of self disciplinary training and physical culture. The most promising of the trainees are taught the Marmas, viz the vulnerable points in the human system. Based on the Ayurvedic system of medical practice the old masters of Kalaripayattu has indigenously developed methods of treatments for kalari related injuries like bruises, fractures etc. known as kalarichikilsa. The training aims at the ultimate co-ordination of mind and body.

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Music/Folk Dances

Heart beat rhythms of Kerala

Kerala has enriched the cultural heritage of India in the field of music, vocal and instrumental, both in its art form and in its folk form. A number of musical instruments are used in Kerala namely percussion, wind and stringed instruments. Mridangam, Dolak, Udukku, Chenda, Timila, Edakka, Takil and a few other represent the percussion type. The chief stringed instruments are Vena, Tamburu, Sarangi, Swarabi and Violin.

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Kerala’s Vibrant Traditional Art Forms: A Cultural Tapestry

Kerala, often referred to as "God’s Own Country", is not only known for its scenic beauty but also for its rich cultural heritage. The state is home to a wide array of traditional art forms that are deeply connected to religious festivals, temple rituals, social gatherings, and folklore. These performances, with their vivid costumes, intricate makeup, expressive storytelling, and symbolic dance movements, reflect the artistic brilliance and cultural diversity of the land.

Below is an overview of some of Kerala’s most cherished traditional art forms:

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Kathakali – The Epic Visual Theatre

Kathakali is perhaps Kerala’s most recognized art form. A classical dance-drama, it visually narrates mythological tales, especially from the Mahabharata and Ramayana. Characters are painted in symbolic colors: green for noble heroes, red for villains, and black for demons. The elaborate costumes, towering headgear, and stylized gestures make Kathakali a spectacular visual experience.

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Mohiniyattam – The Dance of the Enchantress

Mohiniyattam is a graceful solo dance form traditionally performed by women. Its name means “the dance of the enchantress,” symbolizing beauty and grace. Combining elements of Bharatanatyam and Kathakali, it features soft, swaying movements and expressions of feminine love and devotion. Dancers wear white kasavu saris with golden borders and traditional jewelry.

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Kalaripayattu – The Ancient Martial Art

Kalaripayattu is Kerala’s indigenous martial art, considered one of the oldest in the world. Practiced with swords, daggers, spears, and flexible weapons, it includes a series of movements, postures, and techniques for self-defense and body control. The art is physically demanding and often performed as part of temple rituals or in dedicated Kalari schools.

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Chakyar Koothu – Satirical Temple Storytelling

Chakyar Koothu is a solo performance art performed in temple theatres known as Koothambalams. Rooted in humor and satire, it blends storytelling, dance, and mimicry. The performer (Chakyar) uses expressive face paint, traditional ornaments, and witty narration to recount stories from epics and Puranas, often weaving in contemporary social commentary.

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Margamkali – Dance of the Early Christians

Margamkali is an ancient group dance form practiced by the Syrian Christian community of Kerala. Twelve dancers, symbolizing the disciples of Christ, perform around a traditional lamp (nilavilakku), representing Christ himself. Accompanied by songs and hand-held cymbals, Margamkali is often performed during Christian festivals and wedding ceremonies.

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Oppana – Wedding Celebration Dance

Oppana is a joyous art form traditionally performed by Muslim women during wedding celebrations. The bride sits adorned on a decorated seat while her friends and family sing Mapilapattu (folk songs) and dance rhythmically around her, clapping hands in unison. Popular in Malabar regions like Kozhikode and Kannur, Oppana is a celebration of beauty, love, and togetherness.

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Ottamthullal – The Humorous Dance Monologue

Created by poet Kunchan Nambiar, Ottamthullal is a satirical solo performance where the artist dances and recites humorous verses (thullal pattu) that often criticize social evils or human follies. The performer wears striking makeup and a colorful costume, delivering witty dialogue with dramatic gestures. Though once a male-only art form, it is now performed by women as well.

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Theyyam – Ritual Dance of the Gods

Theyyam is a dramatic ritual art form practiced mainly in the North Malabar region. Performers, who are believed to embody the deity during the act, wear towering headgear, painted faces, and elaborate costumes made of palm leaves and bamboo. The performance includes fierce dance movements, fire acts, and rhythmic drumming, blending devotion and theatricality.

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Kummattikali – Onam’s Festive Folklore Dance

Kummattikali is a colorful folk dance performed during the Onam festival. Dancers, known as Kummattis, wear wooden masks depicting mythological characters and grass skirts or leafy coverings. Going from house to house, they entertain families in exchange for gifts or food. This secular art form is rooted in joy, celebration, and community spirit.

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Krishnanattam – The Story of Lord Krishna

Krishnanattam is a temple dance-drama narrating the life and deeds of Lord Krishna, presented as a cycle of eight plays. Originating from the Guruvayur Temple, it combines expressive facial movements, vibrant costumes, and rhythmic steps. Each night, a different episode is performed, portraying Krishna’s birth, childhood, battles, and ascent to heaven.

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Conclusion

Kerala’s traditional art forms are more than performances—they are living traditions that preserve the collective memory, beliefs, and aesthetic values of the people. Whether staged in temples, homes, or cultural festivals, these art forms continue to enchant audiences with their beauty, depth, and timeless relevance. For anyone seeking to experience Kerala beyond its landscapes, these cultural expressions offer a mesmerizing journey into the heart of its heritage.

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