Colourful Kerala- A Tourist’s Guide to God’s Own Country

There is something alluring about Kerala that draws hundreds and thousands of global tourists every year. This southern land is blessed with distinct topography, an interesting culture and mouth-watering Keralite cuisine. Read the fascinating tales penned by the blogger who explored the beautiful backwaters of Kerala, or hear it out from the mouth of a native Malayali, and you will know why you must visit this paradise on earth. If you are person who loves to travel, you will find it impossible to write off Kerala from your bucket-list. Kerala is no less enchanting than the snow-peaked Himalayas or the sandy coastal beaches of Andaman. Well, it a completely different ball game and will surely leave you yearning for more.

In case you are in a holiday mood, have already packed your luggage but now find yourself in a quandary since the destination has not been decided yet, you know where to go! Your love for the mountains will take you to Kerala and your sociable nature will bring you closer to its culture. Sitting at the feet of India, this city has something or the other to offer to each one of us. Simply chalk out a weeklong trip to Kerala that you will never forget. Check out the Maharaja Express fare of the luxury travel itineraries which cover the major destinations of this beautiful state.

Kochi: Kochi or Cochin, as it was known earlier, stands as the proud representative of gothic and modern architecture. Stroll down the bustling alleyways of the Jewish Colony, visit the Mattancherry Synagogue, or check out the Chinese Fishing Nets.

Munnar: The rolling hills of this picture palace is known for its tea plantations. Visit the tea museum, or try tea therapy by sipping on a freshly-brewed cup at a private estate. No doubt, you will fall in love with the breath-taking landscapes of Munnar.

Alleppey: This place, known for its famous backwaters and inland canals, is one of the most preferred tourist destinations in India. Here, life is best lived on a houseboat and you experience what Wordsworth called ‘the bliss of solitude’ along the serene shores of the Alleppey Beach.

Kovalam: This is yet another beach destination in Kerala, but it may come across as a bit mainstream for those looking for a solo retreat. Otherwise, this is a popular choice for families from Kochi. Climb up the lighthouse for a memorable view of the setting sun as it paints the sky in vermillion red.

Things You Must Try Out:

ü  A ride on the houseboat in Alleppey- your trip to Kerala will be incomplete without this.

ü  Sail down the Periyar River to spot some fauna.

ü  Watch the famous Kathakali dance.

ü  Try Keralite cuisine. Don’t miss the popular Kerala Beef Fry with Malabar Porotta and Prawn Moilee.

You can check out the Maharaja Express rail facilities at The-Maharajas.com.

Maharaja Express Exclusive Jaipur Tours

Jaipur has been the land of Mughal lords. Called the “Pink City” due to its pink, to be precise, orchre colored houses spread throughout the city, the place is the gateway to the royal life of Rajasthan. Maharaja Express goes to Jaipur through its seven distinct North Indian tours.

Hidden attractions of Jaipur

The city’s hills and parched trees signify that there is a great desert around, the Thar Desert. The site encompasses the Amber Fort, which talks of a long-lost empire. Just walk around the back of the fort and you will find the Shri Jagatshironmani Temple. It was built by the ruler of Amber on his wife’s request.

The temple receives a mention here due to its rare feature. Here, Lord Krishna is not shown with his usual partner Radha. Instead, he is depicted with Mira Bai. This is the only temple of its kind to harbor such depiction. Mira Bai was a princess who became the lover of Lord Krishna.

Visit the City Palace Museum and you will again find a temple here. Amidst the lavishness and the royalty, you will be charmed by Shri Govind Devji temple of Lord Krishna. It is believed that the image of the Lord present in this temple is more than 5000 years old. A rare feature of this temple is that it is open only for seven glimpses or “jhankis” per day. You cannot enter the temple just any time. Timings are fixed for seven “jhankis.”

Do you know?

Do you know Jaipur is the first planned city of India? Sawai Jai Singh built it in the 18^th century. It is the biggest city of Rajasthan and the capital of the state.

Prince of Wales visited Jaipur in 1905-06. It was during this time that the city was painted pink or ochre to impress him.

The city has awe-inspiring architecture, vibrant market places, intriguing history, and a liveliness that makes you feel at home. The royalty of this city invokes kingly or queenly feeling in you…and when you come through the Maharaja Express to Jaipur you are a “royal guest” of the city.

Golden Triangle tours

Apart from tours that cover Rajasthan widely, the Maharaja train offers two exclusive tours of the Golden Triangle of India. It comprises Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur. The tours give you a chance to know Jaipur better.

You can attend the Elephant Polo Match or dine lavishly at some of the most royal hotels of the city. You can explore the city’s natural, unkempt side or visit well-preserved and painted museums, complexes, and more. The city’s market is an attraction.

Coming to Jaipur in the worlds best train is an altogether different experience. The Maharajas’ Express is voted as the world’s leading luxury train six times in a row from 2012 to 2017. It offers tourists a pompous welcome at the platform and a personal butler on board. It offers well-planned and well-guided tours. The staff’s etiquettes and hospitality are impressive.

All these and more add to the charm of traveling in the Maharajas’ Express. It, indeed, is an experience of a lifetime.