Kerala....

Definitely god's own country...It is a 'MUST' see. If you love to relax and crave for fresh seafood, ladies and gentlemen, this is the place to be. I visited Kerala back in January of this year(great time to go ;chose this as it was just after the peak season so it wasn't over crowded and you could still sneak in some bargains.)

Visiting Kerala had been one of my dreams for quite some time; somehow it always failed to materialise. But this one, was meant to be. It was a magical, peaceful, sort of a ride which re-invented me and my thought process.


Cochin is a two hr flight from New Delhi, n twas quite a change from the cold winter of New Delhi to the hot tropical weather of kerala. Cochin is a like a bustling cosmopolitan town, yet has its own share of history. Fort Kochi is quite a popular attraction in Cochin, with its Chinese Fishing Nets and a line of bars and cafe's. If you're lucky, some fishermen might offer you to actually try out the Fishing nets (mind you, its quite an exercise).


The best part of this trip was the Houseboat ride on the Backwaters at 'Alleppey'. You have this 60 foot houseboat, complete with on board lodging (AC rooms), an onboard chef and other staff. It was by far the highlight of the trip, taking a ride on those serene backwaters. Infact THE highlight was when we actually got to do some rowing on this fisherman's boat. We entered the 'slim' backwaters where the houseboat was unable to go. This was the most peaceful place i've ever been to, the backwaters had village houses on either side, and you could, literally hear a pin drop. This moment made me ask my myself: where am i living? what am i doing? It was so peaceful, breathtaking, i've never knew that you could actually experience such freedom today.
Stayed overnight on the boat, amazing dinner, great friends for company and lots of conversation. The next morning on the houseboat was equally incredible; the cool breeze, breakfast on deck, infact i got to steer the houseboat for a while as well. It was tough leaving the serenity of the houseboat. (I think 2 nights is a must, we spent only one)


The trip moved on: Thekkady- Ayurvedic massages and the Periyar wildlife sanctuary; then to Munnar and its tea gardens, and ending at the highest resort in Kerala: Deshadan. Its around 6-7 kms high up in the mountains where u have pvt cottages.


That trip still remains fresh in my mind: it was an unforgettable experience, the sheer magic just bowls u over......(have a look at the pictures)