Located on the Malabar Coast in the Southwest of India is the federal state of Kerala. Known as ‘God’s Own Country’ due to its immense natural beauty and rich heritage, Kerala today is one of the most developed states in India. It also home to several attractions such as the famous Kerala Backwaters, its unique culture of dance and music, beautiful beaches, and wildlife sanctuaries, making it a popular tourist destination.
Located in Thiruvananthapuram is one of Kerala’s most culturally and historically significant landmarks; the Kuthira Malika Palace and Temple. This grand architectural masterpiece serves a symbol of the royalty that existed in Kerala in the early 19th Century and the close connection the city has to religion, and is currently one of the popular tourist attractions in Kerala.
This Hindu temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and is home to several marvelous Hindu shrines. The main highlight of the site is the shrine of Sri Pabmanabha in a reclined position guarded by the five-headed snake, Anantha. This magnificent shrine is a stunning monument and has immense religious importance to the people in the region. The Gopuram of the Temple, constructed in 1566, is over 100ft tall and is also one of the highlights of this holy site. The temple is currently maintained by a trust created by the Royal Family of Travancore, which resided in the Kuthira Malika Palace located on the Southeast side of the Temple.
This magnificent attraction was built in 1840 and is of immense architectural beauty. Its sprawling pillared verandas, sloping wooden roofs, beautiful courtyards, and row of 122 wooden horses supporting the roof are some of the highlights of the palace that will intrigue its visitors. One can also witness various artifacts and paintings of the Royal Family of Travancore within the premises of Kuthira Malika.
Set amidst beautiful backwaters, the Arabian Sea and tall Ghats is Poovar Island Resort, a luxurious and secluded Kerala resort. Boasting an aura of relaxation and tranquility topped off with excellent service, this hotel offers accommodation in a range of splendid cottages and superior rooms. This beach hotel Kerala also provides a host of luxury facilities such as Ayurveda and spa treatments, multiple restaurants and a poolside bar, recreational and sports facilities, and several great guest packages, making it a highly recommendable hotel.
Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+