Our journey in Kerala began with a splendid and blissful cruise through the backwaters (ALLEPPEY HOUSEBOAT OVERNIGHT), followed by a four-hour drive to Thiruvananthapuram. This coastal capital nestled by the Arabian Sea is a vibrant cultural hub steeped in history and tradition, known for its rich heritage, educational institutions, and bustling markets - a blend of modern comforts and old-world charm waiting to be explored (COLOMBO & GALLE SPOTS).
As we traveled, I couldn't help but marvel at the serene natural beauty - tranquil paddy fields, towering mountains, and the peaceful village life offered a refreshing break from city bustle. Along the way, we made a delightful pit stop at a roadside stall, enjoying Kerala's Masala Chai and snacks like freshly fried vadai and Palam Puri (Kerala Banana Fritters).
While the chai warmed our hearts, the vadai was good, but let's be honest - nothing compares to our Malaysian Pisang Goreng! (Maybe Keralites need to visit Malaysia for tips on achieving that perfect crispy outside and soft inside!) Just kidding!
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The cruise unfolded into a mesmerizing journey through green waters winding amidst mangrove forests and serene villages, including Poovar Village - a quaint coastal settlement near the southern tip of Thiruvananthapuram. It was a perfect opportunity to sit back and marvel at the well-preserved local flora, adorned with countless spices, exotic birds, and vibrant flowers. Lush banana and coconut groves passed by, whichever that caught our attention along the way.
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However, the experience at Kovalam Beach on a crowded Sunday was a bit overwhelming. The narrow streets leading to the beach were jammed, delaying our arrival, and the bustling beach filled with locals made me uneasy as many stared at me while I tried to approach the water. Feeling uncomfortable, I stepped back and found a quieter spot to enjoy the coastline and watch the sunset. Although not a pivotal moment, it added another memorable layer to our Kerala trip.
Next change: Kochi.