There are places you visit, and then there are places that embrace you, leaving an imprint on your soul. Kerala, lovingly called God’s Own Country, is one such land where nature, tradition, and tranquility weave a magical tapestry. I embarked on a journey to explore its enchanting trails, only to find myself lost in its irresistible charm.
Drifting Through the Backwaters: A Voyage into Serenity
My journey began in Alleppey, where the backwaters stretched like a silver ribbon winding through emerald green paddy fields and swaying coconut groves. As my houseboat gently sailed through the canals, time seemed to slow down. The ripples on the water mirrored the soft golden hues of the evening sky, and the distant melodies of temple bells resonated through the air. Here, life moved at its own unhurried pace—fishermen casting their nets, children waving from the banks, and women in colourful sarees tending to their daily chores. The aroma of fresh seafood cooking in coconut oil filled the air, tempting my senses.
Munnar: Where the Mist Meets the Mountains
From the serene waters, I found myself amidst the rolling tea gardens of Munnar. The winding roads leading to this hill station were a journey in themselves, with waterfalls cascading down moss-laden cliffs and stretches of greenery spreading like a never-ending carpet. As I took a deep breath, the crisp mountain air, infused with the aroma of tea, filled my lungs. A walk through the tea plantations was a revelation—the rhythmic plucking of tea leaves, the friendly chatter of workers, and the sight of mist lazily settling over the hills. A sip of freshly brewed tea at a local plantation completed the experience, leaving behind a warmth that lingered long after.
The Call of the Wild: Exploring Thekkady’s Untamed Beauty
Kerala’s wilderness beckoned me next. Thekkady’s Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, home to majestic elephants, exotic birds, and elusive tigers, promised an adventure like no other. A boat safari on Periyar Lake took me deep into the heart of the forest, where herds of elephants bathed by the shore, and deer grazed in perfect harmony with nature. The rustling of leaves and distant calls of wildlife made me realize how untouched and raw this part of Kerala remained. As I trekked through spice plantations, the scent of cardamom, cinnamon, and pepper filled the air—a fragrant memory I would carry back home.
Kovalam’s Golden Sands: A Dance Between Waves and Sunsets
No journey to Kerala is complete without surrendering to the ocean’s embrace. Kovalam, with its crescent-shaped beaches and rhythmic waves, welcomed me with open arms. The golden sand beneath my feet, the salty breeze brushing against my skin, and the sound of waves crashing against the shore created a symphony of their own. As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, I realized that some moments are best felt, not captured.
The Soul of Kerala: Culture, Cuisine, and Warm Smiles
Beyond its landscapes, Kerala’s heart lies in its people and traditions. A Kathakali performance in Fort Kochi mesmerized me with its dramatic expressions and vibrant costumes. The sound of temple drums, the fragrance of jasmine, and the sight of grand houseboats decorated for Onam festivities added layers to the experience. Kerala’s cuisine, a blend of flavours wrapped in banana leaves, was a delight—whether it was the spicy Meen Curry, the crispy Puttu and Kadala, or the comforting Sadhya served on a plantain leaf.
Lost, But Found
Some journeys are not about reaching a destination but about discovering oneself along the way. As I bid farewell to Kerala, I realized that I wasn’t lost at all; I had simply found a part of my soul hidden in its backwaters, hills, forests, and beaches.
Kerala doesn’t just invite you; it engulfs you in its embrace, leaving you longing for more. And perhaps, that’s the true essence of God’s Own Country—a place where every traveller loses themselves, only to be found again in its enchanting trails.