Indian Telescope

                      If you want to see wildlife in its natural habitat amid thriving green forests, then pack your bags and head straight to Tholpetty Wildlife Sanctuary in Wayanad district. Located 20 km northeast of Mananthavady on Kodagu Road, the sanctuary is one of the best places in Kerala to view bountiful flora and fauna at home.                      Tholpetty is part of the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, which is the second-largest in the state after the Periyar sanctuary. Tholpetty in the north is one of the two discontinuous pockets of Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary; the other being Muthanga in the south. Established in 1973, Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary encompasses an area of around 345 sq. km.                     Tholpetty forests consist of both tropical moist dry deciduous and semi-evergreen forests. Plantations...

                                                       Opened in 1993, this museum depicts the history of the Travancore Royal Family and displays their personal belongings and artefacts. Old newspaper footage and deeds describing events are also exhibited. Sree Chithra Enclave is located inside the Museum Complex in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. Getting there Nearest railway station:  Thiruvananthapuram Central, about 3 km away Nearest airport:  Trivandrum International Airport, about 5 km away Courtesy:  Kerala Tourism Official website ,Wikipedia, Google images

                                     The Beemapalli Dargah Shareef, located in Thiruvananthapuram district, is an important place of worship. It is dedicated to Bee Umma, a pious Muslim woman who is believed to have possessed great spiritual powers. The Chandanakudam Festival or Beemapalli Urus at this Mosque, lasting for 10 days, is one of the most colourful events our State has to offer.     Contact Beemapally, Thiruvananthapuram Kerala - 695008. Ph: +91 471 2500379, +91 94978 10379 Email: jamaath@beemapally.org Website: https://beemapally.org/    Getting there Nearest railway station:  Thiruvananthapuram Central, about 7 km Nearest airport:  Trivandrum International Airport, about 7 km Thiruvambady Beach Valiathura Beach Vizhinjam Rock-Cut Cave Courtesy:  Kerala Tourism Official website ,Wikipedia, Google images   

                                                                   Once the only port along the South Kerala coast, Valiathura Beach is located 10 km away from Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala. This beautiful beach, situated near Shankhumugham, lost its significance as Kochi gained prominence and is now a simple fishing port. During monsoons, fishermen carry their catamarans to the edge of the Valiathura Pier which is 703 ft. long, throw them into the sea, then jump in and swim to it. The swaying coconut trees and the rolling waves make the perfect backdrop to unwind and enjoy the view. Getting there Nearest railway station:  Thiruvananthapuram Central, about 4 km away Nearest airport:  Trivandrum International Airport, about 3 km away Courtesy:  Kerala Tourism ...

  The Koyikkal Palace was built for Umayamma Rani of the Venad Royal Family between 1677 and 1684. Today, however, it is famous as a Folklore Museum and a Numismatics Museum. Its unique antique collection provides one with valuable insight into the past of Kerala and it attracts people from across the State on a regular basis.                              The palace itself is a double-storied structure famous for its distinct gabled roofs. The Folklore Museum was set up in 1992 and boasts of musical instruments, household utensils and models of folk arts among others. This is the only place in the State where one can see a Chandravalayam. This small percussion instrument is played while reciting the ballad Ramakathappattu (the story of Lord Rama). It also contains old manuscripts along with ornaments and decor items used by the erstwhile Royal family.            The Numismatic M...

                             Rich in bio-diversity, the Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary is an integral part of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, which was created with the specific objective of conserving the biological heritage of the region. Established in 1973, the sanctuary is contiguous with the protected area network of Nagarhole and Bandipur of Karnataka on the northeast and Mudumalai of Tamil Nadu on the southeast. The sanctuary brims with rare species of flora and fauna. The management lays emphasis on scientific conservation with due consideration for the lifestyle of the tribal communities who dwell in and around the forest region. Getting there Nearest railway station:  Kozhikode, about 110 km away Nearest airport:  Kannur International Airport, about 125 km | Calicut International Airport, about 125 km    Courtesy:  Kerala Tourism Official website ,Wikipedia, Google images

                             Built in the 14th century by Swamy Thirumulpad, the Zamorin, within his palace complex, the Tali temple in Kozhikode is the venue of Revathy Pattathanam, the annual cultural and intellectual event. The Tali temple is a fine example of the total integration that can exist between wood and laterite, which is a remarkable feature of the Kerala style of architecture. The intricate brass-relief on the walls of the sanctum sanctorum and elaborate brass carvings on the wooden roof are quite fascinating.

                           Considered to be the smallest rock-cut shrine in southern India, the Vizhinjam Rock-cut cave is dated to back to 8th century. The shrine has a central cell with an independent sculpture of Dakshinamurthy and on either side of the cell are unfinished sculptures of Siva and Parvathi. It is believed to be one of the earliest rock-cut cave temples in Kerala. This rock cut cave is now a protected monument under the control of the Archaeological Survey of India since 1965. Temple Timings:  09:00 - 18:00 hrs. It remains closed on Mondays. Getting there Nearest railway station:  Thiruvananthapuram Central, about 12 km Nearest airport:  Trivandrum International Airport, about 13 km Courtesy: Kerala Tourism Official website ,Wikipedia, Google images

                         The Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Canacona Taluka, South Goa district, of Goa, India, established in 1968. There is an eco-tourism complex at the entrance of the sanctuary that houses a nature interpretation centre, cottages, toilets, library, reception area, rescue centre, canteen, children's park, and forest ranger office.                          The sanctuary is known for its dense forest of tall trees, some of which reach 30 metres in height. The forest supports moist deciduous trees, semi-evergreen trees, and evergreen trees. A special feature of the sanctuary is a treetop watchtower positioned 25 metres above a watering hole where animals go to drink. The best times to visit the watchtower are dawn and dusk when animals are most like...

                           Located around 7 km away from Cabo de Rama Beach, Kakolem Beach is a hidden gem in South Goa. The less crowded, majestic beach is also called Tiger Beach. The entire beach is hidden between beautiful cliffs and lush greenery.                          To reach here, you will have to climb down a small cliff near the Vagon bus stop, which falls on the way to Betul Beach from Canacona. The unruly wilderness, the quiet, and the mystical surroundings are major lures if you are looking for a unique and serene beach vacation.                          Belonging to this south part of Goa, Kakolem Beach is an awesome destination to spend some quiet and peaceful time with your family. There are not many houses or eateries nearby. The nearest mar...

                                    Cola Beach, also known as 'Khola' Beach, is another hidden gem of South Goa. Located in the Canacona area, the golden sand beach is peppered with volcanic boulders. The beach does not receive many visitors as it is off the beaten path, hidden by thickly overgrown hills, with a decent stretch of rather rocky terrain to be crossed before arriving at this natural paradise. This makes Cola Beach perfect for trekkers and adventure lovers.                          Cola Beach is divided into North Cola and South Cola, with a small hill separating the two. It is joined by a river in the middle which is known as the Blue Lagoon or Emerald Lagoon because of its clear green color.                          The ca...

                           Located in Margo, Cabo de Rama Beach is another beautiful paradise in South Goa. The secluded beach is surrounded by lush coconut and palm trees. If you’re thinking about planning a picnic with family or just spending some alone time, head to Cabo de Rama Beach.>                          Facing the Beach there is a vintage Fort that captures a wonderful view of Cabo de Rama. Counted amongst the oldest forts in Goa, it was originally built by the Portuguese. While taking a stroll on the beach, make sure to visit this fort to click some Instagramable pictures.                          Cabo de Rama Beach Fort also has many historical stories and legends associated with it. One such story states that Lord Rama and his wife Sita st...

                                The Naval Aviation Museum in Goa is a must-visit place for aviation enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Located in Mormugao, South Goa, the museum showcases the evolution and importance of naval aviation in India. Established in 1998, the museum has both indoor and outdoor exhibits, with decommissioned aircraft, weapons, arms, vintage documents, and photographs on display.                               One of the most fascinating exhibits in the museum is the aircraft ejection system and life rafts. It is a great opportunity to learn about flying and the technology behind it. Additionally, the museum has a café called the Cockpit Café, where you can relax and enjoy a cup of tea.                        ...

                                Dudhsagar Falls- one of the tallest waterfalls in India, is a mesmerizing sight to behold in South Goa. The Dudhsagar Falls are divided into four tiers, and the water gushing down resembles a rush of milk flowing down the hill. You can reach the falls by hiring a jeep or private transport from Panaji. Or else, you can choose to visit here by trekking.                               One of the most exciting trek trails starts from the village of Kuveshi and offers moderate difficulty with breathtaking vistas. Another trekking route begins at the Kulhem/Collem railway station and takes about 6 hours to complete. However, the most preferred trail starts at the Castle Rock station in Karnataka, spanning for about 14 km, and follows the railway tracks and tunnel passages as well....

                                                         Tambdi Surla Mahadev Temple is a must-visit destination if you’re interested in exploring the ancient beauty of south Goa. Tambi Surla temple was built in the 12th century during the Kadamba period. According to the locals, it is the oldest temple in the state. Established in the Jain-inspired architectural style, Tambi Surla is entirely constructed with black basalt.                                    The inner sanctum of the Tambi Surla temple had a sublime Shiva Linga and a headless statue of Lord Shiva’s Vahana (vehicle) Nandi. There’s also a local legend associated with this temple. Locals believe that a huge cobra resides in the temple’s dark corner to th...

                                     One of the largest temple complexes in South Goa, the Shantadurga Temple was built in the 18th century in Indo-Portuguese architecture style. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga. Inside the Shri Shantadurga Temple, there are three smaller temples. All these temples are made of Kashmir stone.                               One of the most noticeable things in this temple is the golden palki on which the deity of goddess Durga is carried around during the festivals of Maha Panchami. The temple also has a five-story lamp tower, and Roman arched windows. The surrounding views from the temple complex are also mesmerizing as it's situated on a hill.                           ...

                                          S outh Goa’s magnificent, vibrant, and popular tourist beach is the Colva Beach. The 2.5 km long beach is known for its gorgeous white sands, greenish-blue waves, lush coconut, and palm trees. Apart from its natural beauty, Colva Beach is popular among tourists for housing hundreds of beach shacks, shops, hotels, and pubs.                                    The beach comes alive at night! If you’re into parties, dancing numbers, eating, and drinking, Colva Beach won’t disappoint you. Colva Beach is also a great place for water activities. Jet skiing, boat rides, and snorkeling are some of the popular rides you can enjoy here.                        ...

                                  Our Lady of Remedios Church is the perfect travel destination in South Goa for you. Founded in the 17h century by the Jesuits, the church gives a vibe of peace and tranquility.                               Our Lady of Remedios Church boasts of grand architecture, well-maintained lawns, and a serene surroundings that will evoke spirituality. Also, the masses at the church will be a special treat for the eyes. The white exterior and the green lawns of the church create a splendid sight.                               So, whether you want to spend some alone time in peace or simply seek to enjoy a bright day with your family, Our Lady of Remedios church is definitely a must-visit d...

                                                                             located just 2 km away from the bustling Colva Beach. If you’re looking to avoid the crowded tourist beaches of South Goa, Benaulim is the ultimate place to be. The inviting beach chairs by the shores, lesser crowds, and the beautiful stretch of alluring sand will definitely make your vacation memorable.                                    Though Benaulim is a quieter spot, the nightlife scene paints a completely different picture of the beach. With several restaurants, clubs, and shacks offering alcohol, delicious sea foods, live performances, and party music, you can expect a vibra...

                           Located in the southern part of Canacona in Goa, Butterfly Beach got its name from millions of butterflies found here. This beach is a habitat of butterflies. So, here you can witness hundreds of butterflies fluttering over your head and the hilltop. This semi-circular beach is also popular as the Honeymoon Beach because a lot of couples visit here for its romantic atmosphere.                          Visiting Butterfly Beach is nothing less than an adventure. Because to reach the beach, you have to hike through a forest. This beach is not only a great spot for butterfly sightings but also for dolphin sightings. During low tides, you may also witness various sea creatures like sea urchins, crabs, and fishes.                          I...

                         Agonda Beach definitely deserves mention. This secluded paradise in southern Goa is known for its clear blue water, lush coconut trees, and beautiful white sand shorelines. Unlike other   popular Goa beaches , Agonda Beach has lesser crowds. So, if you want to absorb the Goan beauty in a peaceful private place, there’s no better beach than Agonda.                          Agonda Beach is a famous nesting place for olive ridley sea turtles. So, if you’re lucky, you might spot a few of these cute turtles. The shoreline of this beach is adorned with casuarinas trees, palm trees, beautiful cottages, and shacks.                          You can easily reach Agonda Beach by renting a two-wheeler or four-wheeler. You can also rent cabs easily ...

                                          Palolem Beach is one of the most popular and charming beaches of Southern Goa. The beach is located just 38 km away from Madgaon in Canacona. Adorned with dense coconut trees, Palolem is a must-visit beach if you’re looking to absorb the Goan beauty.                                         From family vacations to solo trips, Palolem Beach is ideal for both. If you’re visiting with family and kids, visit the northern side of the beach. Because the northern side of Palolem has calmer tides, it's a safer option. And if you’re considering going on a backpacking trip with younger crowds, there is no shortage of activities.                      ...