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Located on the Malabar Coast of South-east India is the state of Kerala. Home to major cities such as Kochi, Kozhikode and Thiruvananthapuram, the state of Kerala has a long and illustrious history and is rich in culture. Kerala is also known for its beautiful ecosystem, scenic beauty, ayurvedic tourism, and several cultural and leisure attractions. It is a state with a mixed demography of religions including Hindus, Muslims and Christians. One of the most iconic religious landmarks of Kerala is Vettukad Church, one of the oldest and most revered churches of Kerala. Although primarily a Catholic Church, this structure has become a symbol of pilgrimage for members of all religions, and thus is visited by many more than just Christians. Located on the shores of the Trivandrum District in Kerala overlooking the Arabian Sea, the Vettukad Church was established somewhere in the 16th Century by St. Francis Xavier. Officially known as the Madre-de-Deus Church, the site has been a symbol of faith and refuge for pilgrims of various religions and beliefs for centuries. With the Mother of God serving as the patron saint, the church has given rise to a Christian population numbering close to 6,000 devotees. However, the true magnificence of this church is its harmonious co-operation with all other religions of the region. One of the highlights of the church is its 'Feast of Christ the King', an annual 10 day feast generally held towards the end of November. Usually ending on the last Sunday of the liturgical year, this grand feast consists of various rituals and traditions, which culminates in the image of Christ the King being taken on a procession which is both vibrant and colorful. Thus this church serves as not only a symbol of hope and faith to the Christian community of Vettukad, but it also serves as a symbol of religious harmony and co-existence, and thus definitely warrants a visit. Set on a cliff top overlooking pastoral scenery is The Leela Kovalam, a luxurious Kovalam beach resort. Belonging to The Leela Group of hotels and resorts, this hotel offers accommodation in a range of stylish and soothing rooms and suites. Including the Divya Spa, fine dining restaurants, leisure facilities and several guest offers, The Leela Kovalam is a highly recommendable hotel in Kovalam. Google+
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