Kerala, India: A 2-Week Travel Itinerary with Mariellen Ward

Introduction to Kerala

• 🌴 Kerala is often considered an ideal landing place for first-time visitors to India due to its gentle, laid-back atmosphere.
• 📍 Located in the tropical south of India, it boasts beautiful white-sand, palm-lined beaches, a unique culture, and varied landscapes.
• 🏞️ Beyond beaches, Kerala features the Western Ghats, a top biodiversity hotspot, and a unique 900 km network of backwaters.

Cochin: Historical Gateway

• ⚓ Cochin (also known as Fort Kochi) is a historical area with a natural harbor, serving as a spice trading port for over 400 years.
• 🇵🇹 🇳🇱 The area shows imprints from Portuguese and Dutch colonial powers, evident in its architecture.
• 🚶‍♀️ Recommended neighborhoods include Vasco da Gama Square, known for Chinese fishing nets and St. Francis Church, and Mattancherry, featuring the Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace) and Jew Town with its synagogue and spice market.
• 🏨 Accommodation options range from luxury hotels like The Brunton Boatyard to mid-range boutique hotels like The Malabar Hotel and 8th Bastion, as well as numerous guest houses and homestays.

Kumarakom: Backwater Serenity

• 🛶 The Kerala backwaters are a famous geographical feature, a network of canals where water flows from the Arabian Sea.
• 🏡 Kumarakom is recommended as a well-managed, less over-touristed center for backwater cruising, focusing on responsible tourism.
• 🏨 Visitors can stay in resorts or on houseboats; staying in a resort like Coconut Lagoon is highly recommended for enjoying amenities and day trips.
• 🌅 A sunrise boat trip in small canals offers a glimpse into traditional life, and Coconut Lagoon is noted for its sustainability practices and refurbished traditional architecture.

Thekkady: Spice Hills and Wildlife

• ⛰️ The journey to Thekkady in the Cardamom Hills of the Western Ghats offers a dramatic change in landscape, cooler temperatures, and invigorating air.
• 🌿 This region is known for its rolling tea plantations, spice gardens, and coffee cultivation.
• ☕ Spice Village is a recommended eco-friendly lodge where guests can participate in activities like picking and processing tea, and learning about spices.
• 🐅 The nearby Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary offers opportunities for safaris, including walking safaris, to observe local flora and fauna, though tiger sightings are rare.

Beaches and Ayurveda

• 🏖️ Kerala's long coastline along the Arabian Sea offers beautiful beaches, from remote northern spots to more active southern towns.
• 🌊 Marari Beach is a beautiful, popular beach located between the ocean and backwaters, offering a blend of relaxation and access to cruises.
• ⛰️ Varkala is known for its dramatic cliffs, beachside cafes, and a quieter southern end with a Hindu temple and traditional rituals.
• 🧘‍♀️ South of Kovalam beach are renowned Ayurvedic resorts, offering authentic treatments based on ancient Indian healthcare systems focused on natural remedies and physical health.
• 🌸 Kerala is considered the center for Ayurveda, with options ranging from hospitals to luxury resorts, though proper treatment requires a significant commitment.

Culture and Cuisine

• 💃 Kerala has a rich culture, including traditional dance forms like Kathakali, known for its elaborate makeup and costumes.
• 🕉️ The state has a diverse religious representation, with beautiful Hindu temples, mosques, and churches found throughout.
• 🍚 South Indian cuisine is predominantly rice-based and can be very spicy, featuring dishes like dosas and fresh seafood.
• ⚠️ Precautions for food and water are advised, focusing on hygiene and choosing popular establishments, especially for travelers new to the region.