A Journey Through Kerala's Rich Tapestry
Bengaluru to Kochi: An Appetite for Adventure
The journey begins in Bengaluru, where a night train sets the stage for an 11-hour ride to the historic city of Kochi. Once in Ernakulam, a quick breakfast at the iconic Indian Coffee House fuels the start of a memorable day. With just 6₹ in hand, a jetty ride to Fort Kochi becomes both a budget-friendly and picturesque experience.
Fort Kochi, a place steeped in history from Vasco da Gama to Dutch and British influences, becomes the backdrop for exploration. Armed with a vintage diary from an old art souvenir shop, the traveler charts a course through Kochi Fort, Vayapin Fort, and the bustling Marine Drive main market. A visit to Jew Town and its Dutch Palace completes the historical immersion, while savoring Kerala cuisine at Machlii Restaurant and Kasa Kitchen adds a flavorful touch.
Amidst the vibrant cityscape, the allure of Kochi's yellow trucks and green city buses captures the traveler's attention.
Kochi to Alleppey: Navigating Backwaters
A direct KSRTC bus whisks the adventurer from Kochi to Alleppey in 2-3 hours. The highlight awaits with a four-hour backwater ride on a Vega boat. Amidst the camaraderie of fellow passengers, dancing, shared meals, and exploring an island, the traveler discovers the magic of Alleppey's backwaters. Chance encounters with fellow travelers spark recommendations for future journeys to Kanyakumari or Rameshwaram.
Evenings at the GoStop Hostel, a converted palace, provide the perfect blend of history and modernity. Sunset at the beach, with its vendors, playing children, and couples enjoying their time, becomes a tranquil memory. Dinner at Hussein Family Restaurant caps off a day filled with scenic wonders.
Alleppey to Kollam: Paddling Through Mangroves
The neat and clean railway stations set the tone for the journey to Kollam. Kollam's claim to fame is its mangrove jungle, and the traveler decides to explore it through kayaking for the first time. Four hours of paddling, swimming, and bird-watching in the mangrove jungle create lasting memories. Lunch at a local restaurant, trying Kremeeni fish, wraps up the kayaking adventure before heading to Varkala.
Kollam to Varkala: Seaside Bliss
A brief return to Chandan's place for a forgotten charger precedes a visit to Molly's Hostels in Varkala. A peaceful evening at the black sand beach, accompanied by a stroll through Varkala's bustling bazaar, makes for a perfect end to the day.
Varkala to Trivandrum: Spirituality and Scenic Views
Trivandrum, the next destination after Varkala, holds the promise of spirituality at Shivagiri and the Padmanabhaswamy Temple.
Trivandrum to Kanyakumari: Chasing Sunsets
A direct train leads to Kanyakumari, where lodging is secured for a day of rest and exploration. A visit to the Vivekananda Rock Memorial, an evening spent at the beach, and the proximity to Sri Lanka add to the charm of this southernmost tip of India.
Rameshwaram: A Dead End of India
The journey continues to Rameshwaram, where the Pamban Bridge and a chance encounter with fellow travelers, Ishant and Shreyansh, lead to shared experiences at Rameshwaram Temple and the beach. The following day's adventure takes the traveler to Dhanushkodi, the last ghost town on the Indian mainland, capturing unique moments despite flooded areas.
Madurai: Ancient City Charms
One thing amazed me in Kerala is 90% people know English language, even at one morning at fort kochi i am going for Tea break at Tea Stall there I see Anna are listening news in English radio. I was like that's why Kerala called highest literacy rate in india.
As the traveler reflecting on the incredible experiences across Kochi, Alleppey, Kollam, Varkala, Trivandrum, Kanyakumari, Rameshwaram, and Madurai, the journey stands testament to the rich tapestry of Kerala's history, nature, and culture. Each destination brings forth a unique story, making this adventure an unforgettable chapter in the traveler's book of life.
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