EXPLORE KERALA
Kerala is often referred to as a green paradise on earth, due to its lush landscape, thick undergrowth and beautiful forests. The climate, along with its many natural sources of water, means that Kerala is blessed with a wide variety of rich wildlife, which is a major attraction for holiday-makers who are keen to see these exotic and sometimes very rare animals in their natural surroundings. There are five national parks and thirteen wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala, all dedicated to looking after and preserving this plethora of birds, animals and reptiles.
Here we can see such amazing creatures as the Asian Elephant, Bengal Tiger and Grizzled Giant Squirrel, as well as sambas, leopards, gaurs and wild dogs. Many reptiles such as the king cobra, viper and python, along with various turtles and crocodiles can be found mainly in the east of Kerala, while some of the more remote reserves, like Silent Valley National Park in the Kundali Hills, home endangered species such as the lion-tailed macaque, Indian sloth bear and Indian bison.
In addition to this, there are a staggering 453 different species of birds – both the land and water variety – and, of course, freshwater fish, including some which are native to Kerala’s lakes and waterways, such as Choottachi (or orange chromide).You can take a trek or a nature walk in these enchanting green forests, or perhaps a wildlife safari – either on jeeps or elephants – would be more to your liking. The choice is yours… However you prefer to catch a glimpse of these magnificent wild animals in their natural habitat, whilst surrounded by stunningly beautiful nature spots, we at UJ Creatives can guarantee that experiencing Kerala’s wildlife first-hand will be something you will never forget!
Kerala is often referred to as a green paradise on earth, due to its lush landscape, thick undergrowth and beautiful forests. The climate, along with its many natural sources of water, means that Kerala is blessed with a wide variety of rich wildlife, which is a major attraction for holiday-makers who are keen to see these exotic and sometimes very rare animals in their natural surroundings. There are five national parks and thirteen wildlife sanctuaries in Kerala, all dedicated to looking after and preserving this plethora of birds, animals and reptiles.
Here we can see such amazing creatures as the Asian Elephant, Bengal Tiger and Grizzled Giant Squirrel, as well as sambas, leopards, gaurs and wild dogs. Many reptiles such as the king cobra, viper and python, along with various turtles and crocodiles can be found mainly in the east of Kerala, while some of the more remote reserves, like Silent Valley National Park in the Kundali Hills, home endangered species such as the lion-tailed macaque, Indian sloth bear and Indian bison.
In addition to this, there are a staggering 453 different species of birds – both the land and water variety – and, of course, freshwater fish, including some which are native to Kerala’s lakes and waterways, such as Choottachi (or orange chromide).You can take a trek or a nature walk in these enchanting green forests, or perhaps a wildlife safari – either on jeeps or elephants – would be more to your liking. The choice is yours… However you prefer to catch a glimpse of these magnificent wild animals in their natural habitat, whilst surrounded by stunningly beautiful nature spots, we at UJ Creatives can guarantee that experiencing Kerala’s wildlife first-hand will be something you will never forget!
Ayurveda is the oldest healthcare system in the world, and although the precise timing of its origins is not known, it is thought to date back some 5000 years.
Known as the science of life and longevity, Ayurveda stands for wholesome physical, mental and spiritual growth. It is based on the premise that the body’s three doshas (or energies) need to be in correct balance through specific lifestyle and nutritional guidelines.
In Kerala, Ayurveda is not only a system of medicine, but a complete way of life, practiced with absolute dedication. This is not only about curing a person of health problems, but offering a permanent state of health and well-being by keeping the body, mind and spirit in perfect balance with nature. In this “Mecca of Ayurveda” wellness is blended perfectly with leisure, and complemented by the Marma system, along with Kalari and Kalaripayattu (you can find more information about these in our earlier blogs), the theories and practices of Ayurveda are adapted naturally into everyday life in Kerala.
The state’s ideal geographical location, with its natural climate and tropical forests make it the perfect place for this healing, medicinal treatment. Here there are over 900 different Ayurvedic herbs and plants, and the rich alkaloid content in the soil means that every herb in Kerala is more potent than its equivalent found anywhere else in the world. Special oils, ointments and medicines are made from these herbs and plants, and Monsoon season (from June until November) is said to be the perfect time for Ayurvedic treatments. During this time, the air is clean, dust-free and cool, and the high humidity helps to open the pores of the body, so the oils massaged into the skin are more easily absorbed.
Almost all of the contemporary procedures and protocols of Ayurveda have evolved in and around God’s Own Country, and it is therefore no surprise that Kerala boasts the largest number of practitioners and scientific research of Ayurveda anywhere else in the world.
The famous houseboats of Kerala are a modified form of what were earlier called Kettuvallams…Kettu translating as tied with rope, and vallam meaning boat in the Malayalam language. Traditionally, these boats were used to transport rice, spices and other goods between Kuttanad and Cochin port, and at 100 feet long, with a capacity of 30 tonnes (about the equivalent of three big lorries), it is little wonder that they were the major cargo transportation through the backwaters of Kerala.
However, with the birth of motorised road, rail and air transportation, the Kettuvallams found themselves out of business until the tourism industry re-modelled them into the luxurious houseboats that we all know today as one of the major tourist attractions of Kerala. These striking-looking boats are constructed still using the ancient principles and techniques of boat-building by local carpenters using Anjili wood, and ropes of coconut fibre are used to fasten the wooden planks together. Not a single nail is used in the whole process, and all of the materials that are used are local and eco-friendly. For instance, the varnish coating on the houseboats is made of cashew nut oil, and the roof is made of bamboo poles and palm leaves.
The modern-day boats are equipped with quiet engines for manoeuvring through the backwaters, and solar panels for electricity and bio-toilets are fitted to ensure the backwaters remain undamaged. All the pipes, tanks and other synthetic materials are covered with coir or panambu to maintain the aesthetic quality of the eco-friendly materials . These mini floating cottages boast all modern conveniences, including living space, kitchen, spacious en-suite bedrooms with wide windows, and sun decks.
Now one of Kerala’s most popular tourist attractions, a cruise along the palm-lined backwaters in a luxury houseboat is a truly spellbinding holiday experience!
The normally peaceful Alappuzha, also known as “Venice of the East” thanks to its network of canals, is soon due to be transformed into a hive of activity and excitement as it plays host to the annual Nehru Trophy Boat Race.Held on the second Saturday of August every year (this year will be 10th August), this popular Vallamkali – literally translating as boat play/game – commemorates the visit of Jawaharlal Nehru, the first prime minister of Independent India, to Alappuzha back in 1952.
The most popular event of the Nehru Trophy Boat Race is the race of the Chundan Vallams (or “snake boats”). These magnificent boats measure up to 30 – 35 metres and carry 90 to 110 oarsmen each. They are made of a local wood called Aanjili Thadi and, in fact, hold the record for being the “biggest water vessel used for sports purposes.”
Attracting locals and tourists alike to the banks of Punnamada Lake, Alappuzha, this is a fiercely-fought race, with competitors from each village vying for the prestigious Nehru trophy.The Nehru Trophy Boat Race event also consists of smaller races and other colourful attractions such as ceremonial water processions, beautiful floats and elaborately decorated boats.
As we all know by now, Kerala certainly knows how to put on a spectacular show, and the Nehru Trophy Boat Race is certainly one not to be missed!
Due to be celebrated on 16th September this year, Onam is a ten day celebration – the most ancient and most important festival of the year in Kerala.
This is a harvest festival which marks the end of the monsoon, and the start of the new year on the Malayalam calendar. Falling in the Malayalam month of Chingam (August – September), the Onam Festival also symbolises the homecoming of the mythical King Mahabali. During the reign of King Mahabali, a golden era of perfect harmony and prosperity prevailed in Kerala, but the King’s popularity led to the envy of the Gods, and Vamana – the dwarf incarnation of the Hindu god, Vishnu – banished him to the netherworld. However, due to his virtue and his honesty, it was decreed that King Mahabali would be allowed to visit his kingdom and his subjects once every year…during Onam.
This festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion, and whilst festivities are enjoyed all throughout Kerala, the focal point of the Onam celebrations takes place in Kochi City, with the main centre of the festival being at Thrikakkara temple, which is believed to have been the ancient capital of King Mahabali.
Onam truly brings out the best of Kerala culture and tradition and begins on the first day (Aatham Day) with The Royal Parade, which is breathtakingly colourful, and brings together all elements of Kerala culture on more than fifty floats.
Houses are decorated, and pookalams made with fresh flowers are are placed in front of the house, offering a floral carpet to welcome the King Mahabali. This is a time to share with family, spending time in prayer, and special pujas are offered in the temples in the early morning. Older family members present gifts and blessings to the younger relatives, and feasting is of great importance! The Thiruvonam feast on the final day of the celebration is the largest of all feasts in Kerala where more than twenty curries, and different desserts are served. Normally Onam is a purely vegetarian feast.
Several special events and occasions are also traditionally associated with the Onam Festival. Carnivals of decorated elephants, snake boat races (sometimes involving as many as 100 oarsmen in elegantly carved boats), competitions, processions, fireworks, music and the famous Kathakali and Pullikali dance are amongst the favourites.
If you want to enjoy Kerala at its cultural best, UJ Creatives heartily recommends a visit during this lavish and elaborate festival!
Due to be celebrated on 16th September this year, Onam is a ten day celebration – the most ancient and most important festival of the year in Kerala.
This is a harvest festival which marks the end of the monsoon, and the start of the new year on the Malayalam calendar. Falling in the Malayalam month of Chingam (August – September), the Onam Festival also symbolises the homecoming of the mythical King Mahabali. During the reign of King Mahabali, a golden era of perfect harmony and prosperity prevailed in Kerala, but the King’s popularity led to the envy of the Gods, and Vamana – the dwarf incarnation of the Hindu god, Vishnu – banished him to the netherworld. However, due to his virtue and his honesty, it was decreed that King Mahabali would be allowed to visit his kingdom and his subjects once every year…during Onam.
This festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion, and whilst festivities are enjoyed all throughout Kerala, the focal point of the Onam celebrations takes place in Kochi City, with the main centre of the festival being at Thrikakkara temple, which is believed to have been the ancient capital of King Mahabali.
Onam truly brings out the best of Kerala culture and tradition and begins on the first day (Aatham Day) with The Royal Parade, which is breathtakingly colourful, and brings together all elements of Kerala culture on more than fifty floats.
Houses are decorated, and pookalams made with fresh flowers are are placed in front of the house, offering a floral carpet to welcome the King Mahabali. This is a time to share with family, spending time in prayer, and special pujas are offered in the temples in the early morning. Older family members present gifts and blessings to the younger relatives, and feasting is of great importance! The Thiruvonam feast on the final day of the celebration is the largest of all feasts in Kerala where more than twenty curries, and different desserts are served. Normally Onam is a purely vegetarian feast.
Several special events and occasions are also traditionally associated with the Onam Festival. Carnivals of decorated elephants, snake boat races (sometimes involving as many as 100 oarsmen in elegantly carved boats), competitions, processions, fireworks, music and the famous Kathakali and Pullikali dance are amongst the favourites.
If you want to enjoy Kerala at its cultural best, UJ Creatives heartily recommends a visit during this lavish and elaborate festival!
Kalaripayattu places great importance on the use of treatments in its system…traditionally due to accidental injuries caused by the use of weapons during training.Kalari’s specialised method of treatment is called Marma Chikitsa, a powerful instrument of Ayurveda whose origins can be traced back some five thousand years.Marma means “key point” and relates to specific points on the body where the application of pressure induces a flow of vital energy, known as prana, which flows along a complex system of subtle channels called nadis, and can be used to either heal or to harm the body.
Marma points are the centres of intelligence and vitality, being infused with life-force and consciousness and serving as portals to the body’s own healing energy and wisdom. There are 107 marma points in the body, 64 of which can be fatal if injured. The mind is considered the 108th marma point.
Marma Chikitsa releases and guides the flow of prana within the body to create pathways of healing. Its four basic purposes are as follows:-
1. To remove blocks in the energy channels.
2. To bring the body’s vital energies (or doshas) into harmony.
3. To remove physical, mental and emotional rigidity.
4. To provide the opportunity to undergo dynamic transformation and break through limiting belief systems.
Oil therapy is an important part of Marma Chikitsa, with warm medicinal and herbal oils being applied generously all over the body, especially on the marma points or any problem areas.
Kalari treatments help to free emotional and psychological blocks, stimulate the circulatory systems of the body, relieve body aches, deepen the breathing pattern, aid mental concentration, increase energy, and can even help with relationship issues.Marma Chikitsa can also be used as a non-surgical option for a wide range of physical and mental diseases and problems by the use of sophisticated and unparalleled manipulation and massage techniques that invoke the self-healing powers inherent in the human body.The state of Kerala is rich in the unique herbs with their special healing powers used for Marma Chikitsa and so, naturally, this is where the world’s leading practitioners of this treatment are to be found. In fact, at present, marma treatment is available only in Kerala, and although this ancient art is now making its way into mainstream life, its strong guru-disciple tradition means that it retains its air of exclusivity and mystery.
We would recommend placing a Kalari treatment way up high on your wish list during your visit to Kerala!
Kalaripayattu places great importance on the use of treatments in its system…traditionally due to accidental injuries caused by the use of weapons during training.Kalari’s specialised method of treatment is called Marma Chikitsa, a powerful instrument of Ayurveda whose origins can be traced back some five thousand years.Marma means “key point” and relates to specific points on the body where the application of pressure induces a flow of vital energy, known as prana, which flows along a complex system of subtle channels called nadis, and can be used to either heal or to harm the body.
Marma points are the centres of intelligence and vitality, being infused with life-force and consciousness and serving as portals to the body’s own healing energy and wisdom. There are 107 marma points in the body, 64 of which can be fatal if injured. The mind is considered the 108th marma point.
Marma Chikitsa releases and guides the flow of prana within the body to create pathways of healing. Its four basic purposes are as follows:-
1. To remove blocks in the energy channels.
2. To bring the body’s vital energies (or doshas) into harmony.
3. To remove physical, mental and emotional rigidity.
4. To provide the opportunity to undergo dynamic transformation and break through limiting belief systems.
Oil therapy is an important part of Marma Chikitsa, with warm medicinal and herbal oils being applied generously all over the body, especially on the marma points or any problem areas.
Kalari treatments help to free emotional and psychological blocks, stimulate the circulatory systems of the body, relieve body aches, deepen the breathing pattern, aid mental concentration, increase energy, and can even help with relationship issues.Marma Chikitsa can also be used as a non-surgical option for a wide range of physical and mental diseases and problems by the use of sophisticated and unparalleled manipulation and massage techniques that invoke the self-healing powers inherent in the human body.The state of Kerala is rich in the unique herbs with their special healing powers used for Marma Chikitsa and so, naturally, this is where the world’s leading practitioners of this treatment are to be found. In fact, at present, marma treatment is available only in Kerala, and although this ancient art is now making its way into mainstream life, its strong guru-disciple tradition means that it retains its air of exclusivity and mystery.
We would recommend placing a Kalari treatment way up high on your wish list during your visit to Kerala!