Vazhoor, poised halfway between Cochin and Periyar, is a quiet and picturesque location on the lower slopes of the Cardamom Hills where rubber plantations thrive. This area is also known for its high yielding plantations of cocoa, aromatic black pepper corns, cardamom, pineapple, tapioca, papaya and banana. This place is ideal to use as a base for visits to the Aranmula Cultural Center on the Pamba River, where performances of classical and Kathakali dances can be observed, and courses on astrology and natural medicine are offered. Situated nearby is Kotttayam, Kerala’s main Christian center, which boasts the 16th century churches of Cherai Palli and Valia Palli.