THRILLOPHILIA REVIEWS: My Personal Journey Through God's Own Country

Welcome, dear readers, to a recount of my journey through Kerala, a land that stretches along the southwestern coast of India, framed by the Arabian Sea and the lush Western Ghats. With its vibrant culture, breathtaking landscapes, and a serene atmosphere that almost feels touched by a divine presence, Kerala truly lives up to its moniker, "God's Own Country." Here, I’ll share the best experiences I had during my visit, hoping to inspire your own adventure in this magical state.

1.
The Mesmerizing Backwaters of Alleppey

My adventure began in Alleppey, famously dubbed the 'Venice of the East.' Boarding a traditional houseboat, I embarked on a tranquil cruise along the network of lagoons, lakes, and canals. The pace here is soothingly slow, allowing one to absorb the verdant beauty of paddy fields and coconut palms dotted along the banks. Living on these waters for a couple of days, I experienced the local life up close, watching children wave from the banks as they spotted our boat, and fishermen casting their nets in the early morning light.

2. The Rolling Tea Gardens of Munnar

As someone who loves tea, visiting Munnar was a dream come true. The journey to Munnar itself was spectacular, with roads meandering through hills wrapped in a tapestry of green tea plantations. Once there, I took a guided tour of a tea estate to understand the intricacies of tea farming and processing. The fresh aroma of tea leaves amidst the cool mountain air was invigorating. In planning my itinerary, a Thrillophilia review suggested the Kolukkumalai Tea Estate sunrise tour—an experience that turned out to be one of the highlights of my trip, with breathtaking views of the sun emerging from a sea of clouds.

3. Experiencing the Theyyam Festival

One cannot talk about Kerala without mentioning its colorful and spiritually charged Theyyam festival, a traditional form of worship involving dance, music, and elaborate costumes. Witnessing Theyyam in Kannur offered me a profound insight into Kerala’s rich cultural tapestry. The vibrant costumes and intense dance performances are intended to evoke gods and goddesses, with performers entering into trances and offering blessings to spectators. It was a powerful, emotive experience that connected me deeply with the spiritual essence of Kerala.

4. The Historic Streets of Fort Kochi

Walking through Fort Kochi felt like stepping back in time. The mix of Dutch, Portuguese, and British colonial architecture, along with the iconic Chinese fishing nets lining the coast, tells stories of centuries past. I spent days exploring art cafes, boutique shops, and spice markets, each corner oozing with history and culture. The Jewish synagogue in the Jew Town, decorated with beautiful Belgian glass chandeliers and hand-painted Chinese tiles, was particularly striking.

5. Savoring Kerala’s Culinary Delights

Kerala’s cuisine is as diverse as its landscapes. From the seafood-heavy dishes of the coast to the coconut-laden flavors of the inland regions, every meal was a discovery. I particularly enjoyed the sadya, a traditional Kerala feast served on a banana leaf. It includes a variety of vegetarian dishes like sambar, avial, and payasam, eaten with rice and followed by a banana for dessert. Dining in a local's home, where I was taught how to eat with my hands, Kerala style, was an unforgettable culinary adventure.

6. The Wildlife of Thekkady

My visit to Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Thekkady allowed me to explore the wilder side of Kerala. The sanctuary is home to elephants, tigers, and a myriad of other species. An early morning boat ride on Periyar Lake was especially rewarding, as I spotted elephants grazing by the water's edge and various birds fluttering around. The guide’s tales of the park’s flora and fauna added a layer of intrigue to the misty, verdant landscape.

7. Ayurvedic Healing

No trip to Kerala is complete without indulging in its ancient practice of Ayurveda. I spent a few days at an Ayurvedic retreat where the focus was on holistic healing, balancing the mind, body, and spirit through herbal treatments, massage therapies, and yoga. It was not only rejuvenating but also enlightening, as I learned about the principles of Ayurveda and how they apply to daily life.

8. The Vibrant Onam Festival

If you ever get a chance, visit Kerala during Onam, the harvest festival. It’s a time of celebration with boat races, traditional games, and the spectacular flower carpet called pookalam, designed in front of every house. The spirit of festivity is infectious, with everyone, irrespective of religion, partaking in the celebrations.

9. Sunset at Kovalam Beach

Kovalam was my final stop, with its iconic lighthouse and crescent beaches. Watching the sun set into the Arabian Sea, painting the sky in hues of orange and purple, was the perfect end to my Kerala journey. The beachside eateries, offering everything from grilled seafood to South Indian snacks, provided a tasty backdrop to my reflective evening.

10. Learning Traditional Kerala Crafts

In a small village near Kollam, I joined a workshop on traditional Kerala crafts. Learning to weave coconut leaves and craft intricate designs from them was both challenging and immensely satisfying. The artisans, with their nimble fingers and years of experience, were patient and generous with their knowledge. This hands-on experience gave me not only a deeper appreciation for the local crafts but also a couple of souvenirs handcrafted by myself to take back home.

11. Navigating the Enigmatic Edakkal Caves

Deep in the heart of Wayanad, the Edakkal Caves presented a fascinating trek and a glimpse into ancient petroglyphs that date back over 7,000 years. The climb to the caves was moderately challenging but the panoramic views of the surrounding valleys made every step worth the effort. Inside, the ancient carvings stirred a sense of wonder at the early human civilization that once inhabited this region.

12. The Thrill of Bamboo Rafting in Vythiri

The lush forests of Vythiri offered an adventurous diversion in the form of bamboo rafting. Floating down the tranquil river, surrounded by dense greenery, was both peaceful and exhilarating. The sounds of the forest, from the chirping of birds to the rustling of leaves, created a symphony that enhanced the sense of being at one with nature.

13. Stargazing at Ponmudi Hill Station

The drive to Ponmudi Hill Station is noted for its 22 hairpin turns, each bend revealing landscapes more stunning than the last. Once at the top, the clear night skies offered a breathtaking stargazing experience. The lack of light pollution here makes it an ideal spot for observing the stars and planets, a reminder of the vastness of our universe.

14. Discovering the Rustic Charm of Thrissur

Thrissur, the cultural capital of Kerala, is known for its vibrant festivals and rich heritage. The Thrissur Pooram, known as the festival of festivals, was a spectacle of decorated elephants, drum concerts, and fireworks. Visiting the ancient temples and exploring the cultural museum gave me insights into the spiritual and artistic traditions that are meticulously preserved by the locals.

15. A Day with Elephants at the Kodanad Elephant Sanctuary

At the Kodanad Elephant Sanctuary, I had the unique opportunity to interact with elephants in a respectful and ethical manner. Participating in their bathing and feeding routines allowed me to connect with these majestic creatures in a way that I had never imagined.

16. The Lush Cardamom Hills

A trek through the Cardamom Hills was another highlight of my Kerala visit. The aroma of cardamom permeating the air was intoxicating, and the cool climate made it a pleasant respite from the tropical heat of the plains. The spice plantations here are not only beautiful but also offer a chance to learn about the spice trade that has shaped the region’s history.

Kerala, with its endless variety of experiences, has something for every type of traveler. Whether it's the serene backwaters, the aromatic tea gardens, the bustling festivals, or the tranquil retreats, each aspect of Kerala offers a unique slice of life that stays with you long after you leave. If you’re planning your journey, make sure to read a Thrillophilia review to tailor your experiences according to your interests. Kerala is not just a place to visit, but a world to be experienced, cherished, and remembered forever.