Paradesi Synagogue in Kochi: Stories from the Most Fascinating Synagogue in India

The first thing I noticed was the silence. Not the absence of sound — because Jew Town in Kochi is rarely silent — but a softer rhythm hiding beneath the noise of tourists, spice traders, antique sellers, and passing scooters. Somewhere between the smell of cardamom and old wood, the narrow lane leading to Paradesi Synagogue felt suspended in time.

The first thing I noticed was the silence.

Not the absence of sound — because Jew Town in Kochi is rarely silent — but a softer rhythm hiding beneath the noise of tourists, spice traders, antique sellers, and passing scooters. Somewhere between the smell of cardamom and old wood, the narrow lane leading to Paradesi Synagogue felt suspended in time.

Kochi is layered. Portuguese churches stand beside Dutch buildings. Chinese fishing nets frame Arabian Sea sunsets. Mosques echo evening prayers while temple drums vibrate through humid air. Yet tucked quietly inside Mattancherry lies one of the most unexpected cultural treasures in India: the historic Paradesi Synagogue, widely regarded as the oldest active synagogue in India.

For many travelers, Fort Kochi becomes a quick checklist destination — cafés, colonial lanes, Kathakali shows, and seafood dinners. But the synagogue tells a different story. It speaks of migration, exile, trade routes, survival, faith, and coexistence. It reveals how Jewish communities from Europe, the Middle East, and the Malabar coast shaped the identity of Kerala over centuries.

Walking into the synagogue is not merely entering a religious structure. It feels like stepping into a living archive where blue hand-painted Chinese tiles, Belgian chandeliers, Hebrew inscriptions, and Kerala architecture unexpectedly coexist.

As a photographer, I found the place visually hypnotic. As a traveler, emotionally grounding. And as someone fascinated by layered histories, I realized the synagogue is among the most compelling cultural spaces in South India.

This guide goes beyond standard tourist information. It explores stories, photography angles, hidden details, local interactions, and the quieter observations that often disappear from quick online itineraries.

Why Visit Paradesi Synagogue in Kochi More Than Just a Historic Synagogue in India Many travelers visit because it appears on Kochi sightseeing lists. But the real value of Paradesi Synagogue lies in how deeply it connects global history with local Kerala culture. This synagogue in India is remarkable because it represents centuries of multicultural exchange:

Why Visit Paradesi Synagogue in Kochi

More Than Just a Historic Synagogue in India

Many travelers visit because it appears on Kochi sightseeing lists. But the real value of Paradesi Synagogue lies in how deeply it connects global history with local Kerala culture.

This synagogue in India is remarkable because it represents centuries of multicultural exchange:

  • Jewish traders arriving on the Malabar Coast
  • Portuguese persecution
  • Dutch influence in Kochi
  • Spice trade connections
  • Kerala craftsmanship
  • Middle Eastern religious traditions

Unlike grand monuments built for spectacle, Paradesi Synagogue feels intimate and deeply human.

The building does not overwhelm you with size. Instead, it pulls you closer through details:

  • Worn wooden benches
  • Hanging oil lamps
  • Ancient Torah scrolls
  • Hand-painted floor tiles
  • Fading clocks and inscriptions
  • Quiet prayers once spoken here

You leave feeling reflective rather than entertained.

Historical and Cultural Significance of the Synagogue in Kerala The Arrival of Jews in Kerala Jewish communities are believed to have reached Kerala centuries ago through maritime trade routes connecting the Middle East with the Malabar Coast.

Historical and Cultural Significance of the Synagogue in Kerala

The Arrival of Jews in Kerala

Jewish communities are believed to have reached Kerala centuries ago through maritime trade routes connecting the Middle East with the Malabar Coast.

Local legends suggest Jewish settlers arrived after the destruction of the Second Temple in Jerusalem in 70 CE. While historians debate exact timelines, records clearly establish a long Jewish presence in Kerala.

The Malabar Coast was globally famous for:

  • Black pepper
  • Cinnamon
  • Cardamom
  • Ivory
  • Timber

Arab, Chinese, Jewish, and European traders all passed through these ports.

Birth of the Paradesi Synagogue

The Paradesi Synagogue was built in 1568 by Sephardic Jews who fled persecution in Spain and Portugal.

The word “Paradesi” roughly translates to “foreigner” in several Indian languages.

These Jewish settlers established themselves near the Mattancherry Palace area under the protection of the Kochi royal family.

However, history was not always kind.

When the Portuguese captured Kochi, parts of the synagogue were damaged during anti-Jewish persecution. Later, the Dutch restored the structure after taking control of Kochi in the 17th century.

Today, the synagogue stands as one of the last visible reminders of Kerala’s once-thriving Jewish community.

The Slow Approach Matters One mistake many travelers make is rushing directly into the synagogue. The experience actually begins outside. The lane leading to Jew Town is one of the most atmospheric streets in Kochi. Antique shops spill brass lamps onto pavements. Old spice warehouses still carry faint aromas of cloves and pepper. Faded colonial walls hold decades of monsoon stains.

Walking Through Jew Town: A Personal Experience

The Slow Approach Matters

One mistake many travelers make is rushing directly into the synagogue.

The experience actually begins outside.

The lane leading to Jew Town is one of the most atmospheric streets in Kochi. Antique shops spill brass lamps onto pavements. Old spice warehouses still carry faint aromas of cloves and pepper. Faded colonial walls hold decades of monsoon stains.

Around mid-morning, sunlight enters the street unevenly, creating dramatic patches of shadow and gold. It becomes a dream for street photography.

I stopped frequently:

  • A shopkeeper polishing a brass menorah
  • Cats sleeping near spice sacks
  • Wooden windows painted turquoise
  • Elderly men discussing business over tea

Jew Town rewards slow observation.

Entering the Synagogue

Shoes must be removed before entering.

The transition from humid Kerala heat into the cool interiors is immediate. Your eyes take a moment to adjust. Then the details emerge slowly.

The famous blue-and-white Chinese tiles instantly capture attention.

No two tiles are identical.

That fact alone changes how you look at the floor. Suddenly you stop walking casually and begin observing patterns like a collector studying artwork.

The chandeliers hanging above seem almost surreal in the Kerala setting. Belgian glass. Hebrew inscriptions. Colonial architecture. Kerala timber craftsmanship. Everything feels geographically impossible yet perfectly harmonious.

Architectural Details Worth Observing

The Chinese Hand-Painted Tiles

The synagogue’s floor contains hundreds of hand-painted willow-pattern tiles imported from China during the 18th century.

Photography enthusiasts should spend time studying them closely.

Some tiles show:

  • Pagodas
  • Bridges
  • Birds
  • Trees
  • Water scenes

Because each tile differs slightly, photographing repetitive symmetry becomes surprisingly interesting.

Photography Tip

Use a 35mm or 50mm lens at a low angle during softer indoor light. Focus on selective tile details rather than trying to capture the entire floor.

Belgian Chandeliers

The chandeliers add an almost cinematic atmosphere.

When natural light enters through windows, reflections create layered textures across the room. Dust particles floating in light beams make the interiors feel timeless.

Late morning often provides the best interior illumination.

The Clock Tower

Built in 1761, the clock tower outside the synagogue is often overlooked.

Look carefully and you’ll notice:

  • Hebrew numerals
  • Roman numerals
  • Malayalam numerals

This tiny detail beautifully represents Kochi’s multicultural identity.

Hidden Gems and Lesser-Known Insights

The Nearly Vanished Jewish Community

One emotional reality becomes clear during conversations in Jew Town: the Jewish population in Kochi has dramatically declined.

Most Cochin Jews migrated to Israel after Indian independence.

Today, only a very small Jewish community remains in Kerala.

This changes how you experience the synagogue. It no longer feels merely historic — it feels fragile and precious.

The Quiet Emotional Weight

There’s a subtle melancholy here.

Unlike crowded monuments where tourism dominates, the synagogue still carries emotional memory. You sense absence as much as presence.

Old family homes nearby remain locked or converted into shops. Hebrew inscriptions fade quietly above doors.

For observant travelers, this emotional layer becomes unforgettable.

The Cemetery Nearby

Many visitors miss the old Jewish cemetery located near the synagogue complex.

It is modest but historically important.

Please approach respectfully:

  • Avoid loud conversations
  • Do not pose casually for photographs
  • Maintain distance from graves

Best Photography Spots Around the Synagogue in India

1. Jew Town Street Early Morning

The best street photography happens before tourist crowds arrive.

Ideal timing:

  • 7:00 AM to 8:30 AM

You’ll capture:

  • Empty heritage lanes
  • Shopkeepers opening stores
  • Soft golden light
  • Textured colonial walls

2. Synagogue Exterior

The façade is understated compared to many Indian religious structures.

Use:

  • Leading lines from narrow lanes
  • Wide-angle framing
  • Human subjects for scale

3. Spice Warehouses Nearby

Several old spice buildings near Jew Town create extraordinary visual compositions.

Look for:

  • Wooden doors
  • Vintage weighing scales
  • Burlap sacks
  • Light rays entering dusty interiors

4. Mattancherry Backstreets

Most tourists stay on the main road.

Walk deeper into surrounding lanes to photograph:

  • Traditional Kerala homes
  • Faded Jewish signboards
  • Hidden courtyards
  • Street cats and bicycles

Photography Tips for Capturing the Synagogue in Kerala

Respect Photography Restrictions

Photography rules inside the synagogue may change occasionally. Always check before shooting interiors.

If photography is restricted:

  • Respect the rules fully
  • Observe quietly
  • Use the opportunity to absorb details without distraction

Best Camera Gear

Ideal setup:

  • Mirrorless camera
  • 35mm prime lens
  • Wide-angle lens for architecture
  • Lightweight tripod for exterior low-light shots

Avoid oversized equipment that disrupts the peaceful environment.

Best Season for Photography

October to February

Best overall conditions:

  • Pleasant weather
  • Cleaner skies
  • Softer humidity
  • Better walking experience

Monsoon Season

Unexpectedly beautiful for atmospheric photography.

Rain enhances:

  • Reflections
  • Moss textures
  • Saturated wall colors
  • Moody skies

But equipment protection becomes essential.

Local Food Experiences Near Jew Town

Ginger House Restaurant

Located near the waterfront, this heritage-style restaurant offers atmospheric dining after exploring Mattancherry.

Try:

  • Kerala fish curry
  • Appam
  • Prawn dishes
  • Fresh lime soda

Small Tea Shops Matter More

Some of my favorite moments came from tiny tea stalls rather than formal restaurants.

A local chai vendor near Jew Town asked where I was from before telling stories about how tourist crowds changed the neighborhood over the years.

These small conversations often become the soul of travel memories.

What to Eat Nearby

DishWhy Try It
Appam with stewClassic Kerala comfort food
Malabar biryaniRich coastal flavors
Banana frittersPerfect during rainy evenings
Filter coffeeIdeal after heritage walks
Fresh seafoodKochi’s coastal specialty

Human Stories from Jew Town

The Antique Shop Owner

One antique seller explained how many visitors rush through Jew Town without understanding its layered history.

He pointed toward old wooden beams above his shop and said quietly:

“People photograph the street but don’t see the stories.”

That sentence stayed with me.

Conversations About Migration

Several locals spoke about Jewish families who once lived here before moving abroad.

There’s pride in the history, but also nostalgia.

Some older residents still remember:

  • Jewish festivals
  • Hebrew songs
  • Community gatherings
  • Shared neighborhood traditions

Travel becomes meaningful when places are experienced through memory rather than monuments alone.

Best Time to Visit the Synagogue in India

Best Months

November to February

Ideal weather:

  • Cooler temperatures
  • Lower humidity
  • Comfortable walking conditions

Avoid Midday Heat

Kochi humidity becomes exhausting after noon.

Best visiting hours:

  • Morning: 8 AM – 11 AM
  • Evening walks afterward in Fort Kochi

Festival Seasons

Jewish festivals occasionally bring unique cultural moments, though access and schedules may vary.

Always check locally before planning around religious events.

How to Reach Paradesi Synagogue

From Fort Kochi

  • Auto-rickshaw: 15–20 minutes
  • Ferry + auto combination possible
  • Taxi available easily

From Kochi Airport

Distance:

  • Approximately 40 km

Travel time:

  • Around 1.5 hours depending on traffic

By Ferry

One of the most atmospheric ways to reach Mattancherry is via Kochi’s ferry system.

The water approach gives:

  • Harbor views
  • Slower transition into old Kochi
  • Excellent photography opportunities

Where to Stay Near the Synagogue in Kerala

Heritage Stays in Fort Kochi

Best for:

  • Photographers
  • Slow travelers
  • Cultural exploration

Look for:

  • Portuguese-era homes
  • Boutique heritage hotels
  • Homestays with local hosts

Mattancherry Stays

Less touristy than Fort Kochi.

Better for:

  • Early morning photography
  • Quiet exploration
  • Authentic local atmosphere

Budget Tips for Visiting Kochi

ExpenseApproximate Cost
Ferry rideVery affordable
Auto-rickshawModerate
Heritage stayMid-range to premium
Local mealsBudget-friendly
Walking toursOptional but useful

Save Money By:

  • Using ferries instead of taxis
  • Walking between heritage zones
  • Eating at local cafés
  • Traveling during shoulder season

Suggested One-Day Itinerary

Morning

  • Explore Jew Town early
  • Visit Paradesi Synagogue
  • Photograph Mattancherry lanes

Afternoon

  • Lunch at heritage café
  • Visit Mattancherry Palace
  • Explore spice warehouses

Evening

  • Ferry to Fort Kochi
  • Sunset photography near Chinese fishing nets
  • Seafood dinner by the waterfront

Responsible Travel Tips

Respect Religious Spaces

Even though the synagogue attracts tourists, it remains a sacred place.

Avoid:

  • Loud conversations
  • Flash photography
  • Disruptive posing

Support Local Businesses

Instead of buying mass-produced souvenirs, consider:

  • Handmade spice blends
  • Locally crafted antiques
  • Art from local creators

Slow Down

Jew Town rewards patience.

The most meaningful experiences often happen away from itineraries.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Visiting During Peak Afternoon Heat

The humidity can make exploration uncomfortable.

2. Treating It Like a Quick Stop

Many travelers spend only 15 minutes here.

The neighborhood deserves at least half a day.

3. Ignoring the Side Streets

Some of the most atmospheric photography lies away from the main tourist lane.

4. Overplanning

Leave time for:

  • Conversations
  • Tea breaks
  • Wandering
  • Observing daily life

FAQs About the Paradesi Synagogue

Is Paradesi Synagogue the oldest synagogue in India?

Yes, it is widely considered the oldest active synagogue in India, established in 1568.

Where is the synagogue located in Kochi?

It is located in Mattancherry’s historic Jew Town area near Mattancherry Palace.

Can tourists enter the synagogue?

Yes, visitors are generally allowed, though timings and photography rules may vary.

What is special about the synagogue floor?

The floor contains rare hand-painted Chinese porcelain tiles, each with unique patterns.

Is photography allowed inside?

Rules may change periodically. Always confirm locally before photographing interiors.

How much time should I spend there?

Ideally 2–4 hours including exploration of Jew Town and nearby heritage lanes.

What should I wear?

Dress modestly and respectfully, especially when entering religious spaces.

Final Thoughts

Paradesi Synagogue is not the loudest attraction in Kochi.

It doesn’t compete with dramatic forts, giant temples, or cinematic landscapes. Instead, it invites quiet attention. The kind of place that reveals itself slowly through textures, conversations, fading inscriptions, and layered histories.

Long after leaving Kochi, I remembered tiny details:

  • Blue porcelain tiles beneath soft light
  • Smell of spices drifting through Jew Town
  • An old clock tower carrying three numeral systems
  • Stories of migration and memory
  • Silence inside a centuries-old synagogue in Kerala

Travel often becomes richer when we stop searching only for spectacle.

Sometimes the most unforgettable places are the ones that whisper instead of shout.

And Paradesi Synagogue whispers beautifully.

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I had always heard about Wayanad as one of the biggest tea producers in India, but when I actually visited this beautiful place I realized that coffee is also produced in abundance. Wherever we went in Wayanad, we found acres of lands covered by coffee plantations. This Photo Journey shares some information about coffee plantations in Wayanad region of Kerala. Coffee production in India is dominated in the hilly terrains of South Indian states. Karnataka produces the max followed by Kerala. Indian coffee is said to be the finest coffee grown in the shade rather than direct sunlight anywhere in the world. Our host at Meenangadi had huge coffee farm around his homestay and he shared the fact about coffee in shadow. Most of the the plants were in shades of various trees including black pepper, jackfruit, coconut & rubber trees.Above is the view from out cottage at Treasure Trove which was surrounded by coffee plantations all around. After coming back from Wayanad, I read more about Coffee plantations in India and got to know that we have approximately 2.5 lac coffee growers and majority of them are small growers. Major part of the coffee grown in India exported to Germany, Russian, Spain, Belgium, Slovenia, United States, Japan, Greece, Netherlands, France and Italy.There are two methods to process Coffee - dry processing and wet processing. Dry processing is the traditional method of drying in the sun which is favoured for its flavour producing characteristics. This what we witnessed during our stay in Wayanad. Indian coffee, grown mostly in southern India under monsoon rainfall conditions, is also termed as “Indian monsooned coffee. Two well known species of coffee grown are the Arabica and Robusta.Drawn by the aroma into the Coffee Plantations of Wayanad || Kerala Diaries






I did a post on main places to explore and things to do in God's Own Country - Kerala and one of the followers mentioned on Facebook that it's unfair not to mention food of Kerala. And I agree, so thought of compiling this post about Food of Kerala. I am sure that some of the following names would sound familiar - Puttu and Kadala Curry, Thalassery biryani , Appam with Stew, Dosa Ghee Roast with Kerala styled Sambar , Idiyappam with Egg Curry, Spicy Chicken Fry (locally known as Nadan Kozhi Varuthathu), Kerala Prawn Curry, Mussel Stir Fry (popularly known as Kallumakkaya Ularthiyath ) , Pumpkin (Erissery) and Lentil Stew, Naadan Beef fry or Kerala Style Beef Fry and Malabar Parota, Kerala style Fish Molee and Kerala rice(boiled rice) along with sambar, parippukari with ghee, pachadi, kichadi, aviyal, puliyan, kuttukari, Kalan, Olan, Injikkari, rasam, pappadam, pickle, raita, sweetners(two or three different types), payasam.I clearly remember the Theayyam feast we enjoyed at Kannur. After spending whole day at Theyyam temple, one of the priest invited us to join for the feast. Everyone is invited to have lunch at temple and some of the popular food items are served on banana leaf. The same day we were wondering about the banana trees which would have lost those leaves. Hundreds of folks had lunch at the temple during Theyyam festival. Whenever anyone talk about Kerala food, that feast come to my mind. So my recommendation is to find a community event where you can enjoy authentic Kerala food.If you have visited Kerala you would know how Kerala rice look like and if not, just have a look at above photograph. These are very light as compared to rice we get in North India.If you are visiting Kerala, it's recommended to buy some spices to bring back home for family and friends. Patimugam is something which we liked and bought in abundance. The pink colored water served with food is basically boiled water by putting Patimugam in it. Travellers very well know that food of any place is very much inspired by it's weather and local ingredients. You can very much guess the major ingredients of Kerala food. Coconuts grow in abundance in Kerala and hence coconut cream & coconut milk are widely used in dishes for thickening and flavouring. Owing to the weather of Kerala and the availability of spices, the Kerala cuisine is richly spicy especially the hot ones - chilli , black pepper , cardamom , cloves , ginger and cinnamon.Kerala's long coastline, various rivers, backwaters and strong fishing industry have contributed to many sea & river food based dishes. Rice and cassava (Tapioca) form the staple food of Kerala. All main dishes are made with them and served along with Kootan; the side dishes which may be made from vegetables, meat, fish or a mix of all of them. The main dish for lunch and dinner is boiled rice.If you love cooking and prefer healthy food for your family, you may want to check this brilliant blog by Sangeeta . And here is a recipe for Chicken stew Mughlai Style.Let me give another tip to fellow travellers for exploring authentic food of Kerala. Prefer staying in Home Stays and do proper research. We were lucky to have great experience of home stays in Kerala. If you plan to explore Wayanad, here are 2 recommendations - Treasure Trove and Bamboo Village.As you can see, banana leaves are used in different forms. Apart from serving food on banana leaf, it's also used for cooking. At our homestay, we used to get home cooked snacks with evening tea. What an awesome stay it was. I wish to go there right now. Non-veg was main part of all our meals at Kerala. I found it interesting when fish and chicken vendors sell various types of fish on bicycle. While staying at Bamboo village, we met some vendors who were selling 4-5 types of small fish and almost every villager was buying fish. Banana is other main ingredient of Kerala food. In fact, unripe banana are also used in various ways. Banana pakoras, boiled banana, banana chips etc. I am sure that banana must be used in 10 other forms in Kerala. I didn't like boiled banana which was served to us in breakfast. Either I ate it in wrong way or I could relate to it's taste.Food Trail in God's own country, Kerala (India)






India is also referred to as 'God's Own Country'. Kerala is a coastal state in India and has rich traditions, culture and lush unspoiled tropical beauty with unmatchable landscapes. Kerala is popularly known for its landscapes, backwaters, food, elephants, Theyyam & various types of spices. Kerala is perfect destination for folks visiting India and even for Indians who want to spend some time at peace & slow pace of life. Kerala has options for different types for tourists and travellers. This post lists some of the popular places to explore and things to do in Kerala state of India. Munnar - Usually I hate to do comparisons of places because it's usually unfair, as every place is unique. But I would like to call out that Munnar is popularly known as Kashmir of South India. Munnar is one of the key destination in Kerala which attracts lot of domestic and foreigner tourists to Kerala. It's a beautiful hill station which has lush green tea estates apart from spice plantations.Some of the popular places to explore in Munnar are Eravikulam National Park, Indo Swiss Dairy Farm, Chinnar Wild Life Sanctuary, Anamudi, Tata Tea Museum, Idukki Arch Dam.Thekkady - Thekkady is one of the most important tourist destinations in Kerala state of South India. Thekkady is located in the famous Periyar National Park. The Periyar National Park is home to a large number of Indian elephants, lion-tailed Macaques, Nilgiri Langurs, Indian bison and Bengal Tigers. Mullaperiyar Dam around the area on the Periyar River and formed an artificial lake for Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.Kovalam Light house beach in Kovalam is must visit place. And I am sure that you must have seen some exceptional photographs of lighthouse beach. Just notice the lighthouse in above photograph and you would be able to recall other photographs from same place and beach. Kovalam is also known as beach town of Kerala. It is also known as the paradise of the south and beaches of KOvalam are considered some of the best beaches in India. Kovalam means a grove of coconut trees and true to its name the village offers an endless sight of coconut trees. Alleppey - Alappuzha is an important backwater tourist destination in Kerala. Alleppey is one of the most preferred place for tourists, which attracts several thousands of foreign tourists each year. If you have ever watched boat races, Alleppy is the place to host these events. Apart from boat races Alleppy is also popularly known for beaches, marine products and coir industry. Allapuza Backwaters is a must experience thing in Kerala.Some of the other interesting other places around Alleppy include Statue Of Karumadikuttan, Mannarasala Sri Nagaraja Temple and Revi Karuna Karan (RKK) Memorial Museum.Wayanad - Wayanad is north Kerala and popular for it's tea & coffee plantations. Hilly region of Kerala which has plenty of natural things to explores. Lakes, Waterfalls, caves, tea estates, adventure activities, home stays, wildlife and lot more. Kalpetta, Pookot Lake , Edakkal Caves , Pakshipathalam, Lakkidi, Sulthan Bathery, Banasura Sagar , Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Neelimala view point , Meenmutty falls and Curuva Island are some of the popular places to explore in Wayanad. On our blog, we have shared about some of the best home-stays in Wayanad and incredible experience of Bamboo village. Check out more on the blog and I am sure that you would definitely plan for this region of Kerala.Vagamon hill station is located on Idukki - Kottayam border area. A best place to spend time during summers of Kerala. Vagamon is immensely beautiful with many points of tourist interest, which offer great landscapes. The meadows, forests and hills surrounded by fog/clouds make this place more interesting. ( Cochin ) / Ernakulam - If you are taking flight to south Kerala, most likely you would be hitting Kochi first. Kochi is located in Ernakulam district of Kerela, which was earlier known as Cochin. Kochi is also an important seaport in India. Ernakulam is popular for shopping options in Kerala. I haven't really done shopping in Kerala but this is well known fact about Ernakulam. Some of the popular places to explore around Cochin include Jewish Synagogue, Cherai Beach, Marine Drive, Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica, Fort kochi & Chinese Fishing Nets, Mattancherry Palace, Kodanad Elephant Sanctuary, Ezhattumugham Nature Village and Athirappally Falls. Thiruvananthapuram - Poovar is a small village in the Southern tip of Trivendrum. Around Poovar beach you can explore mangroves, floating restaurants, varieties of birds and biodiversity. The beach is pristine with golden sand with no or less people. Solitude’s comfort, you see! Fisherman waiting to trap the fishes in their giant nets at one corner and eagles and crows waiting for the fishes to be their fodder. Nature, oh nature, vicious circle, it is Some of the interesting places to explore around Thiruvanantpuram are Priyadarshini Planetarium, Vizhinjam Rock Cut Temple, Kuthiramalika, Kanakakunnu Palace. A photograph of Coffee plants from Kerala state of India. some of the old temples. Some of the temples around Kannur celebrate Theyyam festival and lot of foreigner tourists visit Kannur for Theyyam. Thottada beach is one of the popular and isolated beach in Kannur. Riding around these beaches and backwaters can be interesting.Kumarakom Houseboats Kumarakom is most popular tourist spot located near the Kottayam city and famous for its houseboats in backwaters of Vembanad Lake. Vembanad Lake is the largest freshwater lake of Kerala and longest lake in India. Kumarakom is a famous Bird Sanctuary and home to a wide variety of local and migratory birds.One of the most important recommendation is to try Kerala food when you are in Kerala, but be careful about the quantity you order. Usually lot of curries are served, so it's recommended to order the minimum portion from menu and then decide, if you need more.Main places to visit and things to do in Kerala, India


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