Kerala

If someone asked me to describe Kerala in one sentence, I would say “Kerala is green in colour.” Being full of greenery, it is an absolute delight for people who prefer peaceful surroundings. It is full of coconut trees all around. Even the roadsides were packed with lush green grass and plants. I visited Kerala in the month of October, 2007. It is said that the best season to visit Kerala is from October till January.

The boat ride in the Periyar wildlife sanctuary was a unique experiece. Although all the tigers were hiding in the forest due to slight rain, I could spot deer and a variety of birds.

Thekkady is an amazing hill station. Our hotel was on the top of a small hill, which offered an absolutely beautiful view of the scenery around. The journey through the tea plantations was a treat. The people of Kerala were polite and extremely nice to me. I loved shopping for herbal creams and spices. I still can’t forget the mouth watering Kerala dish called Thiyal with the special Kerala Porotta (Parantha) I had twice.

Now comes the best part of the trip, the Back Waters of Kerala. The overnight houseboat experience now seems like a dream to me. I still can’t believe I spent that evening sitting in a lavish boat, gazing at the sunset. The shades of the water changed as the evening progressed. It was so captivating to explore the canals where people actually live. Everyone had boats parked outside their homes, like we have cars. I still remember how badly I wished to capture every single moment in my memory that time.

We opened our eyes to Kumarakom in the morning. The place welcomed us with loads of style. As I got out of the houseboat, I saw a few people standing outside the Kumarakom resort waiting to welcome us. They put tilak on my forehead, beautified me with a red flower garland around my neck and offered me coconut water. As I moved to check out my room, I was thrilled to see the open bath full of shells. I could see the coconut trees right over my head while bathing in the most lavish bathroom I have ever seen.

Other places in Kerala, like the Cochin city, the Kovalam beach were a lot of fun too. I would love going there again sometime. Next time, I would want to explore the hill station Munnar and also get an ayurvedic body massage done, that I missed.