Before our Kerala experience, we heard the phrase “God’s own country”. Without much knowledge of the state itself, the phrase was somewhat mystifying. However, we now know it is entirely the truth.
While there will always be some similarities with the rest of India, Kerala is not about the hustle and bustle as the Rajasthan state is. Instead, the area is known for its palm-tree stretched coastline, the integral backwaters and endless mountains with tea, coffee and spice plantations. It is these diverse landscapes and terrains that have shaped the population of Kerala. Thus, creating a human-nature relationship that is powerful and unimaginable.
Below our article in collaboration with Kerala Tourism and their “Human by Nature” campaign documents the strong connection of the Kerala people to their land.
The People of Kerala: Our Kerala Experience
During our time in Kerala, we wandered through the seaside streets of Fort Cochin, visited family homes in Alleppey, and engaged with local women in Munnar. The memories we formed were unexpected, special and most importantly unforgettable. It was small moments in time that stood out the most. The photos to follow showcase the pride, love and friendliness of the locals and their connection to the land around them.
Munnar – Land of Tea Plantations and Spices
Home to endless rolling hills and emerald-green tea plantations, Munnar is the complete opposite of what one would expect from a trip to India. It is peaceful, relaxing and calm. As we wandered through the tea plantations, we came across the local women who spend hours daily trimming the tea plants. From one row to the next. We could sense the endurance and strong will amongst them. It was clear from the women’s expressions, as well as the stories from our guide Sebinsta, the locals are extremely proud of this particular area.
Munnar also plays a key role in growing some of the most important spices including cardamom, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and turmeric. This is primarily because of the climate in the area. As we listened to our guide we were amazed by how many herbs and spices can be used as natural medicines. For example, cardamon is not only used to enhance the flavour of food. It can also be utilized for medicinal health benefits such as blood pressure, depression, cancer and the flu.
Fort Cochin – Seaside Charm
It is the colonial architecture and waterfront location that makes the charming seaside town of Fort Cochin appealing to tourists. As extended families worked together at market stalls by the famous fishing nets, children ran around. No matter what age, many locals approached us and spoke to us in English. We soon learnt that education in Kerala is strongly encouraged and practised. The state actually has some of the best educational facilities in all of India! For children, in particular, parents believe it is important they are aware of the religious teachings and culture of the state.
Kumarakom – Scenic Backwaters + Rice Fields
The picturesque area of Kumarakom truly represents the best Kerala has to showcase. It is home to luscious rice fields, intertwined backwaters and incredible flora and fauna. After only one night, we were blown away by it’s magic. Our favourite memory during our time there was when we were served afternoon tea from a local who arrived on a small wooden boat. The simplicity of this action resonated with us. Not only their willingness to put others needs before their own and their love to include travellers in their lives.
Alleppey – Houseboat Madness
One of the most famous areas in Kerala to see the backwaters is Alleppey. Surrounded by dense greenery, the backwaters are small channels of water running for endless kilometres. Many locals who reside in the area are unable to reach their houses by car. Instead, they use small boats and travel throughout the waterways. As a tourist, an amazing experience is to stay on a houseboat for the night. This is what we did! Our friendly host even invited us to his family’s house where we were shown how to weave using palm leaves, how to husk a coconut, boil clams (which we ate later for dinner) and how to make coconut and green mango chutney. Afterwards, we drove through the canals on a small boat as we passed many families and small communities.
It is easy to sense the importance of love and unity among them. Children were smiling and the parents were laughing. Life is simple, uncomplicated and most of all “Keralites” are happy with the simple pleasures of life. The family’s house which we visited had 4 generations living under the same roof! While they may be aware of modern technology, they are not phased by it nor do they depend on it. Instead, their relationships with one another are of utmost importance.
In conclusion, Kerala made us realise once again that it is the human interactions that make travel so powerful and enlightening. To see more clips from Kerala and learn more about the Kerala experience in the Tourism Boards campaign video, have a look below:
For a more detailed looked into our Kerala experience and our itinerary, have a look here.
X KoTravellers
Sponsored by Kerala Tourism
