Firstly, I apologize for the delay in posting this. Let's continue my diary regarding my trip to south.
Kerala is the place where traditions and nature has deeply survived. Even with literacy at its peak, people have chosen to stick to their origins. Be it the way they dress or food they eat. They are not ignorant to the world modernization but they chose to be loyal to their roots. The moment we entered the state, we got that distinct feel of “them” and “us”. Huge difference! We were just some visitors for them. They were glad to have us there since Tourism is one of the biggest source of Income.
First destination from Trivandrum airport was Poovar Island. Arriving at Kerala backwaters, we have to load ourselves into a boat to get to the Poovar Island resort which was the only means of transport. The view was breathtaking. Waters surrounded by Coconut trees so tall and grown so dense. Arriving at resort, we were welcomed with a Pooja thali, tika and a garland made up of Elaichi (cardamom). Next came the welcome drink. Tea made up of strong spices. One of the best tea I have had in my life. No it did not needed creamer or milk or even sugar. Flavor came from special tea grown native and all the spices broiled with water. And after that started unforgettable experience of witnessing beauty and traditions. All meals during the stay were made with heavy southern flavors. Use of coconut, banana and spices were very normal and any dish was incomplete without them. Various types of chatni and spreads were the key to the delicious breakfast. Deserts made form bananas were Favorite for Dinner.
Kerala is the place where traditions and nature has deeply survived. Even with literacy at its peak, people have chosen to stick to their origins. Be it the way they dress or food they eat. They are not ignorant to the world modernization but they chose to be loyal to their roots. The moment we entered the state, we got that distinct feel of “them” and “us”. Huge difference! We were just some visitors for them. They were glad to have us there since Tourism is one of the biggest source of Income.
First destination from Trivandrum airport was Poovar Island. Arriving at Kerala backwaters, we have to load ourselves into a boat to get to the Poovar Island resort which was the only means of transport. The view was breathtaking. Waters surrounded by Coconut trees so tall and grown so dense. Arriving at resort, we were welcomed with a Pooja thali, tika and a garland made up of Elaichi (cardamom). Next came the welcome drink. Tea made up of strong spices. One of the best tea I have had in my life. No it did not needed creamer or milk or even sugar. Flavor came from special tea grown native and all the spices broiled with water. And after that started unforgettable experience of witnessing beauty and traditions. All meals during the stay were made with heavy southern flavors. Use of coconut, banana and spices were very normal and any dish was incomplete without them. Various types of chatni and spreads were the key to the delicious breakfast. Deserts made form bananas were Favorite for Dinner.
While still in Poovar Island., we did not miss a chance to travel to Kanyakumari, southernmost tip of Peninsular India. Vivekananda rock memorial visit was the highlight. The Ferry took us to the rock through the sea. The merger of three seas – Bay of Bengal, Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean can be seen from these rocks. More famously known as Triveni Sangam. The view from the rock was just breathtaking. Experience was one of its kind. Next to the rock was Thiruvalluvar Statue. The statue is tall stone sculpture of the Tamil Poet Tiruvallavur. The statue is put very recently and the height of 95 feet is the main reason of attraction. On our way back to Poovar Island, we stopped at Kovalam Beach. The beach is internationally renounced and one of the favorites of tourists. Sea Waters can be rough at times here but we managed to do some water sport and kids had their best time at beach. After a fun and excitement filled day, we were welcomed by warm and super delicious dinner. Next morning we took off toward Alleppy, still in back waters. All the cottages/rooms facing backwaters and all you wanted to do was just lie in your bed facing huge windows that opened up in waters till horizon. So calm, just looking at the view was giving the experience of meditation. Unforgettable!!!!
Next in the route was Thekkady.. Periyar Tiger Reserve, Spice gardens, elephant rides, Kathakali and Marshal Art shows. Early morning we ran to catch a boat ride to Periyar Tiger Reserve. Awesome example of Scenic charm. Hour and half ride took us through the extremely guarded and very well managed reserve for rare and endangered. The boat sailed through the important rivers of kerala, the Periyar and Pamba. Periyar reserve is a heritage and supports a noble cause of forest conservation. After that came the most fun part of the day elephant ride and shower with elephants. Kids were going nuts when the trunk went into the water and immediately came out filled and now giving them shower with a thrust. All while sitting on elephant’s back. I wasn’t sure if it was fun for animal but we had time of our lives. To show our gratitude, we did rub elephant’s back and hopefully he liked it. Queue to get clicked with elephant was long but the wait was worth. After that the evening took us through Kathakaliand Marshal Art performances. I am still mesmerized with the expressions with eyes and hand movements of the artists. Worth watching!
Last but not the least was Munnar. The town a picture-book town Sprawling with tea Plantations and exotic flower beds. It is so popular among tourists that you can find one of the best hill station resorts. Visit to tea factory was memorable as I learned the correct method of making the tea. It is very uncommon outside India to mix milk and sugar with tea. The right method is to just boil the water, add tea, turn off the stove and cover the pan to let it stand for 10 -15 minutes. That is the best way to get maximum antioxidant and many more health benefits. Visit to tea garden was amazing just picture perfect view. We also visited Eravikulam National Park which is famous for its endangered inhabitant – The Nilgiri Tahr.
Trip to Kerala without buying Kanjivaram saree is a waste. Of course I bought one and will soon flaunt it. I will share the picture wearing it pretty soon. Kochi was the last stop for shopping. After saree, next in my cart was Banana, Jackfruit and Tapioca chips prepared in of course coconut oil. Some homemade halwa was a delicacy in itself. Trip to airport was little sad with the thought of leaving all the beauty behind. But home is home and the feeling of touch down is always refreshing and warm. So I am back home and back in action. Trip was rejuvenating experience. I am not sure what my next destination will be but will surely share my experience.