Unexplored Beauty of Kerala

by Ishaan Sharma (India)

A leap into the unknown India

Kerala, a state known for its richness in spices and greenery also known as "God's Own Country". Being a North Indian, had never thought such a heavenly place exists. A sudden plan for a week for a family getaway it was. We went in a flight and while landing all we could see was greenery and amazingly the Google map turned green too. Deboarding from the aircraft, the freshness in the air was such a warm welcome in Kerala. Famous for it's backwaters, we stayed at resorts and to be close to the beach and enjoy the sound of the waves at night and a walk by the beach. The Cherai beach resort, which had backwaters in the backyard and waking up to such beauty was indeed unexpected. The beauty and the aroma of spices in the famous spice garden, where you smell coffee and other spices while on a short elephant safari. It was very indulging. Ayurveda is famous for healing various ailments, and the special ayurvedic massage on your way to Munnar - 'A hill station', is very relaxing. On your way to Munnar, don't forget to visit the homemade chocolate factories and grab some very unique flavours and the organic spices and oils to have a healthy life. The spell of rains at some places and bright sun at some, the chinese fishing nets in the backwaters are something to be remembered from the boat ride. The last one, a village safari which takes you through untrodden roads between the jungle and you spot some waterfalls, see some very unique natural creations and enjoy the wildlife enroute. All this in a week wasn't enough to cover, a lot more is hiding in that place to be discovered. But, if you go there once, you wouldn't feel like returning from there as the people there will make you feel so homely and you can enjoy the Kerala delicacies and the exotic beauty of the culture and traditons.