Walk Around Fort Kochi: Stories Hidden Between Colonial Walls and Coastal Breezes

Fort Kochi does not reveal itself immediately. It unfolds slowly. You notice it first in fragments — faded Portuguese-era walls, bicycles leaning against mustard-yellow buildings, the smell of sea salt drifting through narrow streets, and old men discussing politics outside tea shops while tourists search for the famous Chinese fishing nets.

Fort Kochi does not reveal itself immediately.

It unfolds slowly.

You notice it first in fragments — faded Portuguese-era walls, bicycles leaning against mustard-yellow buildings, the smell of sea salt drifting through narrow streets, and old men discussing politics outside tea shops while tourists search for the famous Chinese fishing nets.

Most travelers arrive in Fort Kochi with a checklist.

But the real charm of Fort Kochi lives beyond the checklist. It exists in peeling paint textures. In conversations with cafe owners. In quiet courtyards hidden behind antique shops. In rainwater reflecting old colonial windows. In stray cats sleeping under bougainvillea-covered balconies. Walking through Fort Kochi feels less like sightseeing and more like entering layers of memory.

But the real charm of Fort Kochi lives beyond the checklist.

It exists in peeling paint textures. In conversations with cafe owners. In quiet courtyards hidden behind antique shops. In rainwater reflecting old colonial windows. In stray cats sleeping under bougainvillea-covered balconies.

Walking through Fort Kochi feels less like sightseeing and more like entering layers of memory.

This historic coastal neighborhood of Kochi is not simply a tourist destination. It is a cultural intersection where Portuguese, Dutch, British, Arab, and Jewish histories overlap with contemporary Kerala life. One street smells like freshly brewed filter coffee while another echoes with church bells and mosque prayers carried by sea winds.

And perhaps that is why Fort Kochi stays with people long after they leave.

Not because of monuments.

Because of atmosphere.

Why Visit Fort Kochi Fort Kochi is Best Experienced on Foot Unlike many Indian destinations where movement feels rushed and chaotic, Fort Kochi encourages slowness. The roads are narrow. The traffic is gentler. Trees arch over old streets. Sidewalks invite wandering rather than hurried movement.

Why Visit Fort Kochi

Fort Kochi is Best Experienced on Foot

Unlike many Indian destinations where movement feels rushed and chaotic, Fort Kochi encourages slowness.

The roads are narrow. The traffic is gentler. Trees arch over old streets. Sidewalks invite wandering rather than hurried movement.

A walk here can unexpectedly lead to:

  • A hidden Dutch cemetery
  • Tiny art galleries inside colonial homes
  • Vintage bookstores
  • Spice-scented warehouses
  • Street murals
  • Quiet cafes with jazz music
  • Fishermen repairing nets near the shore
  • Old synagogues and churches within walking distance of each other

Fort Kochi also attracts photographers, artists, writers, backpackers, historians, and long-term travelers because the area feels visually layered and emotionally textured.

There are very few places in India where:

  • Colonial architecture survives this organically
  • Contemporary art coexists with fishing communities
  • Luxury cafes stand beside weathered local bakeries
  • Global travelers blend naturally into neighborhood life

Fort Kochi rewards observation.

The slower you move, the richer the experience becomes.

Historical and Cultural Significance of Fort Kochi A Port that Connected Continents Fort Kochi’s importance comes from its location on the Malabar Coast — historically one of the world’s most important spice trading regions. Long before European colonizers arrived, Arab traders regularly visited this coastline for black pepper, cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom. Then came the Portuguese in the 16th century. Later the Dutch.

Historical and Cultural Significance of Fort Kochi

A Port that Connected Continents

Fort Kochi’s importance comes from its location on the Malabar Coast — historically one of the world’s most important spice trading regions.

Long before European colonizers arrived, Arab traders regularly visited this coastline for black pepper, cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom.

Then came the Portuguese in the 16th century.

Later the Dutch.

Then the British.

Each left architectural, culinary, and cultural traces that still survive in Fort Kochi’s streets.

Rare Historical Detail

Fort Kochi was home to one of India’s earliest European settlements. The Portuguese built churches, warehouses, and trading offices here after arriving in Kerala in 1503.

The famous explorer Vasco da Gama was originally buried at St. Francis Church in Fort Kochi before his remains were later moved to Lisbon.

That small historical detail alone changes how you experience the town.

You suddenly realize that these quiet streets were once part of a massive global maritime network.

The First Morning Walk in Fort Kochi When the Streets are Still Half-Asleep The best time to explore Fort Kochi is early morning. Not sunrise exactly. Around 6:30 to 8:00 AM. The light is softer. The humidity is manageable. Streets remain uncrowded. Shop shutters are still opening. This is when Fort Kochi feels most authentic.

The First Morning Walk in Fort Kochi

When the Streets are Still Half-Asleep

The best time to explore Fort Kochi is early morning.

Not sunrise exactly.

Around 6:30 to 8:00 AM.

The light is softer. The humidity is manageable. Streets remain uncrowded. Shop shutters are still opening.

This is when Fort Kochi feels most authentic.

I remember walking toward the waterfront near the Chinese fishing nets while fishermen untangled wet ropes and tea vendors prepared the first steel kettles of chai.

A few tourists were already photographing the fishing nets.

But the more interesting scenes were happening behind them.

One fisherman sat quietly repairing a torn net with astonishing patience. Another balanced fresh sardines in blue crates while bargaining loudly with a seafood buyer. Stray dogs slept peacefully beside overturned wooden boats.

The air smelled of seaweed, fish, wet wood, and chai.

That combination somehow becomes the smell of Fort Kochi.

Walking Route for Exploring Fort Kochi A Slow Walking Trail Through the Neighborhood Start at St. Francis Church The whitewashed simplicity of St. Francis Church contrasts sharply with the tropical surroundings. Unlike ornate churches elsewhere in India, this church feels restrained and atmospheric. Morning light filtering through the old wooden interiors creates beautiful photography opportunities.

Walking Route for Exploring Fort Kochi

A Slow Walking Trail Through the Neighborhood

Start at St. Francis Church

The whitewashed simplicity of St. Francis Church contrasts sharply with the tropical surroundings.

Unlike ornate churches elsewhere in India, this church feels restrained and atmospheric.

Morning light filtering through the old wooden interiors creates beautiful photography opportunities.

Photography Tip

Use a 35mm or 50mm lens for storytelling compositions here. Wide-angle shots often flatten the mood.

Walk Toward Princess Street

Princess Street is among the oldest European streets in India.

Today it is lined with:

  • Boutique cafes
  • Small bookstores
  • Heritage homestays
  • Souvenir shops
  • Art cafes in Kochi
  • Backpacker hostels

But beneath the tourism layer, traces of old Fort Kochi survive.

Look upward.

Many travelers focus only on storefronts.

The real beauty is often above eye level:

  • Wooden balconies
  • Rusted signboards
  • Colonial windows
  • Moss-covered walls
  • Hanging plants spilling over terraces

During monsoon season, Princess Street becomes especially photogenic because rain deepens the wall colors dramatically.

Art Cafes in Kochi: More Than Just Coffee Spaces The Creative Heart of Fort Kochi One of the most fascinating aspects of Fort Kochi is its cafe culture. These are not generic Instagram cafes. Many art cafes in Kochi operate inside restored colonial homes, old warehouses, or heritage buildings. They function as informal cultural spaces where artists, travelers, filmmakers, and locals interact.

Art Cafes in Kochi: More Than Just Coffee Spaces

The Creative Heart of Fort Kochi

One of the most fascinating aspects of Fort Kochi is its cafe culture.

These are not generic Instagram cafes.

Many art cafes in Kochi operate inside restored colonial homes, old warehouses, or heritage buildings. They function as informal cultural spaces where artists, travelers, filmmakers, and locals interact.

Some display contemporary Kerala art.

Others host poetry evenings or indie music sessions.

And many feel deliberately unpolished in a beautiful way.

What Makes Fort Kochi’s Cafe Culture Unique

Unlike metropolitan cafe culture dominated by speed and laptops, Fort Kochi cafes encourage lingering.

Nobody rushes you.

Conversations stretch.

Rain becomes background music.

Bookshelves gather dust naturally.

Fans rotate lazily overhead.

Even silence feels comfortable.

Kashi Art Cafe

Kashi Art Cafe is perhaps the most iconic among the art cafes in Kochi.

But despite its popularity, it still retains character.

The courtyard seating, white walls, changing artworks, and old industrial aesthetic make it feel timeless rather than trendy.

The breakfast scene here reveals Fort Kochi’s diversity:

  • European backpackers
  • Local artists
  • Writers with notebooks
  • Families from Bengaluru
  • Foreign students
  • Solo travelers editing photographs

What to Try

  • Cold coffee
  • Fresh juices
  • Kerala-style breakfasts
  • Homemade cakes

Photography Insight

Mid-morning light entering the courtyard creates strong shadow patterns perfect for monochrome photography.

Hidden Alleys Most Travelers Miss Fort Kochi Exists Between Main Attractions The most memorable experiences often happen away from famous landmarks. Walk randomly behind Princess Street. Turn into unnamed lanes. Pause near old homes. Observe details. One hidden lane revealed:

Hidden Alleys Most Travelers Miss

Fort Kochi Exists Between Main Attractions

The most memorable experiences often happen away from famous landmarks.

Walk randomly behind Princess Street.

Turn into unnamed lanes.

Pause near old homes.

Observe details.

One hidden lane revealed:

  • A bicycle mechanic repairing rusted pedals
  • A woman drying red chilies outside a blue doorway
  • Portuguese-style tiled roofs covered with moss
  • Cats sleeping under old Ambassador cars

These scenes rarely appear in travel itineraries.

Yet they define Fort Kochi more authentically than major tourist attractions.

Jew Town and the Layered Identity of Kochi A Short Walk That Feels Like a Different Era Although technically separate from Fort Kochi’s core walking zone, nearby Jew Town adds another historical dimension to the experience. The area reflects Kochi’s Jewish trading history and spice commerce legacy. Antique stores line the narrow roads. Some are genuine treasure spaces. Others are theatrical tourist shops.

Jew Town and the Layered Identity of Kochi

A Short Walk That Feels Like a Different Era

Although technically separate from Fort Kochi’s core walking zone, nearby Jew Town adds another historical dimension to the experience.

The area reflects Kochi’s Jewish trading history and spice commerce legacy.

Antique stores line the narrow roads.

Some are genuine treasure spaces.

Others are theatrical tourist shops.

The challenge — and joy — lies in distinguishing between the two.

Rare Observation

If you visit early morning before shops fully open, Jew Town feels hauntingly beautiful.

The silence reveals architectural textures normally hidden beneath tourist noise.

Wooden doors.

Blue windows.

Old Hebrew signboards.

Dusty courtyards.

Faded spice warehouses.

This is the best time for photography.

Chinese Fishing Nets: Beyond the Postcard The Human Side of an Iconic Scene The Chinese fishing nets are among Fort Kochi’s most photographed attractions. But the real story is not the structure itself. It is the labor behind it. Watching fishermen operate these massive cantilevered nets reveals the physical rhythm of coastal life. Each lowering and lifting requires coordination. Timing matters.

Chinese Fishing Nets: Beyond the Postcard

The Human Side of an Iconic Scene

The Chinese fishing nets are among Fort Kochi’s most photographed attractions.

But the real story is not the structure itself.

It is the labor behind it.

Watching fishermen operate these massive cantilevered nets reveals the physical rhythm of coastal life.

Each lowering and lifting requires coordination.

Timing matters.

Strength matters.

Patience matters.

Best Time to Visit

Late afternoon into sunset offers:

  • Golden light
  • Fishing activity
  • Better reflections
  • Strong silhouettes

However, sunrise provides quieter storytelling opportunities without tourist crowds.

Photography Composition Tip

Instead of photographing the entire fishing net, isolate human interactions:

  • Hands gripping ropes
  • Wet feet on wooden platforms
  • Fish baskets
  • Reflections in puddles
  • Faces during negotiation

These images feel far more intimate.

Conversations that Stay with You Meeting an Elderly Tea Seller Near the Waterfront One evening, rain interrupted the walk unexpectedly. I took shelter at a tiny tea stall near the waterfront. An elderly man running the stall asked where I was from. Then he began narrating how Fort Kochi had changed over decades.

Conversations that Stay with You

Meeting an Elderly Tea Seller Near the Waterfront

One evening, rain interrupted the walk unexpectedly.

I took shelter at a tiny tea stall near the waterfront.

An elderly man running the stall asked where I was from.

Then he began narrating how Fort Kochi had changed over decades.

“Earlier, tourists came for history,” he said. “Now many come for photographs.”

That single sentence stayed with me.

Because it was partly true.

Many travelers today consume destinations visually before emotionally experiencing them.

Fort Kochi resists that approach.

This place asks you to slow down enough to notice human stories.

Best Photography Spots in Fort Kochi 1. Chinese Fishing Nets at Sunrise Best for: Silhouettes Human activity Golden reflections Ideal Timing 6:15 AM – 7:30 AM

Best Photography Spots in Fort Kochi

1. Chinese Fishing Nets at Sunrise

Best for:

  • Silhouettes
  • Human activity
  • Golden reflections

Ideal Timing

6:15 AM – 7:30 AM

2. Princess Street After Rain

Best for:

  • Street photography
  • Reflections
  • Color contrasts

Ideal Timing

Early morning during monsoon

3. Kashi Art Cafe Courtyard

Best for:

  • Lifestyle photography
  • Cafe details
  • Minimalist compositions

Ideal Timing

9:00 AM – 11:00 AM

4. St. Francis Church Interiors

Best for:

  • Moody light
  • Architectural symmetry
  • Texture photography

Ideal Timing

Morning

5. Hidden Residential Lanes

Best for:

  • Documentary photography
  • Local life
  • Colonial textures

Ideal Timing

Anytime between 7:00 AM – 10:00 AM

Photography Tips for Fort Kochi Gear Recommendations Best Lenses 35mm for storytelling 50mm for portraits and details 24mm for architecture Avoid Overpacking Fort Kochi is best explored lightly. A heavy camera bag slows the experience.

Photography Tips for Fort Kochi

Gear Recommendations

Best Lenses

  • 35mm for storytelling
  • 50mm for portraits and details
  • 24mm for architecture

Avoid Overpacking

Fort Kochi is best explored lightly.

A heavy camera bag slows the experience.

Light Conditions

Monsoon

  • Soft diffused light
  • Dramatic skies
  • Saturated colors

Summer

  • Harsh midday light
  • Better for black-and-white photography

Winter

  • Pleasant golden hours
  • Comfortable walking weather

Ethical Photography Tips

Always ask before photographing:

  • Fishermen closely
  • Elderly locals
  • Children
  • Workers inside markets

Many locals are friendly, but respectful interaction matters.

Local Food Experiences in Fort Kochi Seafood Dominates the Culinary Landscape Fort Kochi’s food scene reflects Kerala’s coastal identity mixed with colonial influence. Some memorable experiences are surprisingly simple. Not expensive. Not curated. Just authentic.

Local Food Experiences in Fort Kochi

Seafood Dominates the Culinary Landscape

Fort Kochi’s food scene reflects Kerala’s coastal identity mixed with colonial influence.

Some memorable experiences are surprisingly simple.

Not expensive.

Not curated.

Just authentic.

Seafood Cafes Near the Waterfront

Fresh catch displays outside small restaurants often include:

  • Pearl spot fish
  • Prawns
  • Sardines
  • Squid
  • Crab

You choose the fish.

They cook it fresh.

Usually with:

  • Kerala spices
  • Coconut oil
  • Curry leaves
  • Black pepper

The result feels deeply regional.

Must-Try Local Dishes Dish Why Try It Kerala Fish Curry Tangy and coconut-rich Appam with Stew Comfort food with Syrian Christian influence Karimeen Pollichathu Banana leaf grilled pearl spot fish Beef Fry with Parotta Popular local combination Pazham Pori Banana fritters perfect with chai

Must-Try Local Dishes

DishWhy Try It
Kerala Fish CurryTangy and coconut-rich
Appam with StewComfort food with Syrian Christian influence
Karimeen PollichathuBanana leaf grilled pearl spot fish
Beef Fry with ParottaPopular local combination
Pazham PoriBanana fritters perfect with chai

Monsoon Completely Changes the Atmosphere Many travelers avoid Kerala during monsoon. Photographers should reconsider that. Rain transforms Fort Kochi dramatically. Walls become richer in color. Streets reflect colonial facades. Cafe interiors feel cinematic. Sea winds intensify. Clouds add depth to photographs.

Seasonal Mood of Fort Kochi

Monsoon Completely Changes the Atmosphere

Many travelers avoid Kerala during monsoon.

Photographers should reconsider that.

Rain transforms Fort Kochi dramatically.

Walls become richer in color.

Streets reflect colonial facades.

Cafe interiors feel cinematic.

Sea winds intensify.

Clouds add depth to photographs.

And tourist crowds reduce significantly.

Monsoon Challenge

Humidity can affect camera equipment.

Carry:

  • Lens cloth
  • Waterproof bag
  • Silica gel packs

Best Areas Near Princess Street Ideal for: Walkability Cafe access Heritage vibe Near the Beachfront Ideal for: Photography Sunrise walks Coastal atmosphere

Where to Stay in Fort Kochi

Best Areas

Near Princess Street

Ideal for:

  • Walkability
  • Cafe access
  • Heritage vibe

Near the Beachfront

Ideal for:

  • Photography
  • Sunrise walks
  • Coastal atmosphere

Accommodation Types

Heritage Homestays

Best for cultural immersion.

Many old colonial homes have been converted into guesthouses with:

  • Wooden ceilings
  • Courtyards
  • Antique furniture
  • Traditional Kerala breakfasts

Boutique Hotels

Better for comfort-focused travelers.

Backpacker Hostels

Ideal for solo travelers and artists.

Budget Tips for Fort Kochi

Fort Kochi Can Be Surprisingly Affordable

Save Money By:

  • Walking instead of using autos
  • Eating at local cafes
  • Staying in heritage homestays
  • Visiting free public spaces
  • Traveling during shoulder season

Avoid:

  • Overpriced tourist seafood near crowded waterfront spots
  • Buying antiques without verification
  • Last-minute holiday bookings during December

Suggested One-Day Walking Itinerary for Fort Kochi Morning Sunrise at Chinese fishing nets Tea near waterfront Walk to St. Francis Church Explore quiet lanes Late Morning Breakfast at Kashi Art Cafe Street photography around Princess Street

Suggested One-Day Walking Itinerary for Fort Kochi

Morning

  • Sunrise at Chinese fishing nets
  • Tea near waterfront
  • Walk to St. Francis Church
  • Explore quiet lanes

Late Morning

  • Breakfast at Kashi Art Cafe
  • Street photography around Princess Street

Afternoon

  • Explore Jew Town
  • Visit antique stores
  • Lunch with Kerala seafood

Evening

  • Sunset walk by the waterfront
  • Kathakali performance
  • Slow dinner at a heritage cafe

Responsible Travel Tips for Fort Kochi

Respect the Residential Nature of the Area

Fort Kochi is not an open-air museum.

People live here.

Children go to school here.

Families work here.

Travel respectfully.

Important Etiquette

  • Dress modestly near religious sites
  • Ask before photographing people
  • Avoid blocking narrow lanes for photoshoots
  • Support local businesses
  • Reduce plastic waste

Common Mistakes Travelers Make in Fort Kochi

Trying to “Cover” Everything Quickly

Fort Kochi is not suited for rushed tourism.

The best experiences happen when:

  • You sit longer
  • Walk slower
  • Observe quietly
  • Take detours
  • Talk to people

Ignoring the Early Morning Hours

Late mornings become crowded.

The real magic exists before 9 AM.

Only Visiting Famous Attractions

Some of Fort Kochi’s most memorable moments happen:

  • In unnamed lanes
  • At tea stalls
  • During random conversations
  • While getting lost

Frequently Asked Questions About Fort Kochi Is one day enough for Fort Kochi? One day is enough for major landmarks, but two to three days allow deeper exploration of cafes, art spaces, photography walks, and nearby neighborhoods.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fort Kochi

Is one day enough for Fort Kochi?

One day is enough for major landmarks, but two to three days allow deeper exploration of cafes, art spaces, photography walks, and nearby neighborhoods.

What is the best time to visit Fort Kochi?

October to March offers pleasant weather. However, monsoon season creates a uniquely atmospheric experience for photographers and slow travelers.

Is Fort Kochi safe for solo travelers?

Yes. Fort Kochi is generally considered one of India’s safer and more relaxed travel neighborhoods, especially for solo travelers and backpackers.

What are the best art cafes in Kochi?

Popular choices include:

  • Kashi Art Cafe
  • David Hall
  • Loafer’s Corner
  • Qissa Cafe

Each has a distinct atmosphere and cultural personality.

Can Fort Kochi be explored on foot?

Absolutely.

Walking is the best way to experience Fort Kochi because the neighborhood’s charm lies in details often missed from vehicles.

Final Thoughts: Why Fort Kochi Feels Different Some destinations impress you instantly. Fort Kochi does something quieter. It slowly settles into memory. You remember: Rain on old colonial walls Tea beside the sea The smell of spices and wet wood Conversations with strangers Ceiling fans inside old cafes Fishermen silhouetted against orange skies Cats sleeping near antique stores The sound of church bells mixing with coastal winds

Final Thoughts: Why Fort Kochi Feels Different

Some destinations impress you instantly.

Fort Kochi does something quieter.

It slowly settles into memory.

You remember:

  • Rain on old colonial walls
  • Tea beside the sea
  • The smell of spices and wet wood
  • Conversations with strangers
  • Ceiling fans inside old cafes
  • Fishermen silhouetted against orange skies
  • Cats sleeping near antique stores
  • The sound of church bells mixing with coastal winds

Fort Kochi teaches a valuable travel lesson.

Not every place needs spectacle.

Sometimes atmosphere is enough.

And in Fort Kochi, atmosphere is everywhere.


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On the very first day of our stay in Wayanad, our host suggested us to trek to Edakkal Caves. 'Trekking' word did the magic and we decided to go there next day only. This Photo Journey shares some of the photographs and information around the trek & caves.We requested Sunil (our host at Treasure Trove to arrange an auto for the day. We left in the morning after breakfast and Edakkal is 15 kilometers from Meenangadi, the place where we were staying.We drove through some beautiful landscapes and beautiful sights. The mountain in above photograph looked beautiful and was shot from moving auto only. Later we realized that Edakkal caves offer another great view of the mountain from the hill top.We took some breaks on the way and soon we came a cross a diversion which lead us to 4 kilometers climb in auto, till the parking of Edakkal Caves. There is a small market at the base, where all vehicles need to be parked and then the trek starts for Edakkal Caves.The trek is concrete, but quite steep. Initially we were in hurry but realized that we should go slow. We enjoyed trekking to Edakkal caves and took some breaks on the way.After walking for 30 minutes we reached a counter where we had to buy entry tickets for the caves. Ticket costed 20 Rs per person and 30 Rs for camera. Please do read message in above photograph. One needs to deposit 20 rs if you want to take water bottle beyond this point. They paste a sticker on the bottle and you can get back the money when you come back. This model really works in Kerala and they have implemented it in most of the tourist destinations in Kerala.These stickers are pasted on the bottles. People bring back their empty bottles to the counter and get back the deposited money.These stairs start from the ticket counter till main caves of Edakkal.There are various shops on the way to have some snacks or buy stuff for home. Lot of Kerala products are sold in these shops - tea, coffee, spices, coconut products, herbal soaps etc.There are good number of stairs from ticket counter till caves. The main cave is on the top of this hill and one needs to trek through other smaller caves. There are folks around this hill who ensure smooth movement of crowd. This is quite a crowded place and discipline is important. Mostly people walk in queue and ensure that things happen smoothly.This is the entry to first cave at Edakkal. Above photograph is clicked from the cave. It was good to see a disciplined movement of folks and of-course credit goes to the local administration for appropriate arrangements in terms of marking & people to help.Now the trek continued through caves and few more steep climbs till we hit the final cave. Steel stairs are installed inside these caves. Edakkal caves lie at around 1200 metres above sea level on Ambukutty Mala, beside an ancient trade route connecting the high mountains of Mysore to the ports of the Malabar coast .Kids expressions in above photograph shows the level of next climb :). Yes, it was getting steeper. Next few climbs exposed everyone to some of the beautiful sights of Wayanad.Finally we hit the main cave which has varied designs carved on all the rocks. Edakkal Caves are two natural caves which are approximately 24 kilometers from Kalpetta in the Wayanad district of Kerala. This lies around India Western Ghats.Inside the caves are pictorial writings. These signs are believed to date to at least 6000 BC, from theNeolithic man, indicating the presence of a prehistoric civilization or settlement in this region. The Stone Age carvings of Edakkal are rare and are the only known examples from south India.Check out wikipedia to know more about Edakkal caves.These are the stairs to come down on the back journey from Edakkal caves to the base. It was a nice experience to be there at Edakkal caves and enjoyed some of the amazing views from the top of this hill. It's a proper tourist spot so it's always crowded.



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The first thing that strikes you during a Kathakali Dance performance is not the music. Not the elaborate costumes either. It is the eyes. Under warm stage lights in Kochi, a performer slowly turns his face toward the audience. His eyes widen dramatically, then narrow with impossible precision. Every movement feels amplified. Every glance carries meaning. Even before the drums begin, the story has already started.



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Artist we met in Kerala - Tanish Daniels || Kerala Diaries









If you land in Bangalore, you can catch a KRSTC bus running regularly to Kozikhode or directly to Wayanad. Some kerala transportation buses are also available. It is highly recommended to plan it well and know about bus timings before hand, to plan your trip well. Let's also talk about travel by Rail/train. Nearest railway station is Kozikode and beyond that you need to either take a taxi or bus. Related Post : Journey from Delhi to Wayanad via Bengaluru, Mysore, and Sultan Battery || Kerala Diaries




I had always heard about Wayanad as one of the biggest tea producers in India, but when I actually visited this beautiful place I realized that coffee is also produced in abundance. Wherever we went in Wayanad, we found acres of lands covered by coffee plantations. This Photo Journey shares some information about coffee plantations in Wayanad region of Kerala. Coffee production in India is dominated in the hilly terrains of South Indian states. Karnataka produces the max followed by Kerala. Indian coffee is said to be the finest coffee grown in the shade rather than direct sunlight anywhere in the world. Our host at Meenangadi had huge coffee farm around his homestay and he shared the fact about coffee in shadow. Most of the the plants were in shades of various trees including black pepper, jackfruit, coconut & rubber trees.Above is the view from out cottage at Treasure Trove which was surrounded by coffee plantations all around. After coming back from Wayanad, I read more about Coffee plantations in India and got to know that we have approximately 2.5 lac coffee growers and majority of them are small growers. Major part of the coffee grown in India exported to Germany, Russian, Spain, Belgium, Slovenia, United States, Japan, Greece, Netherlands, France and Italy.There are two methods to process Coffee - dry processing and wet processing. Dry processing is the traditional method of drying in the sun which is favoured for its flavour producing characteristics. This what we witnessed during our stay in Wayanad. Indian coffee, grown mostly in southern India under monsoon rainfall conditions, is also termed as “Indian monsooned coffee. Two well known species of coffee grown are the Arabica and Robusta.




I did a post on main places to explore and things to do in God's Own Country - Kerala and one of the followers mentioned on Facebook that it's unfair not to mention food of Kerala. And I agree, so thought of compiling this post about Food of Kerala. I am sure that some of the following names would sound familiar - Puttu and Kadala Curry, Thalassery biryani , Appam with Stew, Dosa Ghee Roast with Kerala styled Sambar , Idiyappam with Egg Curry, Spicy Chicken Fry (locally known as Nadan Kozhi Varuthathu), Kerala Prawn Curry, Mussel Stir Fry (popularly known as Kallumakkaya Ularthiyath ) , Pumpkin (Erissery) and Lentil Stew, Naadan Beef fry or Kerala Style Beef Fry and Malabar Parota, Kerala style Fish Molee and Kerala rice(boiled rice) along with sambar, parippukari with ghee, pachadi, kichadi, aviyal, puliyan, kuttukari, Kalan, Olan, Injikkari, rasam, pappadam, pickle, raita, sweetners(two or three different types), payasam.I clearly remember the Theayyam feast we enjoyed at Kannur. After spending whole day at Theyyam temple, one of the priest invited us to join for the feast. Everyone is invited to have lunch at temple and some of the popular food items are served on banana leaf. The same day we were wondering about the banana trees which would have lost those leaves. Hundreds of folks had lunch at the temple during Theyyam festival. Whenever anyone talk about Kerala food, that feast come to my mind. So my recommendation is to find a community event where you can enjoy authentic Kerala food.If you have visited Kerala you would know how Kerala rice look like and if not, just have a look at above photograph. These are very light as compared to rice we get in North India.If you are visiting Kerala, it's recommended to buy some spices to bring back home for family and friends. Patimugam is something which we liked and bought in abundance. The pink colored water served with food is basically boiled water by putting Patimugam in it. Travellers very well know that food of any place is very much inspired by it's weather and local ingredients. You can very much guess the major ingredients of Kerala food. Coconuts grow in abundance in Kerala and hence coconut cream & coconut milk are widely used in dishes for thickening and flavouring. Owing to the weather of Kerala and the availability of spices, the Kerala cuisine is richly spicy especially the hot ones - chilli , black pepper , cardamom , cloves , ginger and cinnamon.Kerala's long coastline, various rivers, backwaters and strong fishing industry have contributed to many sea & river food based dishes. Rice and cassava (Tapioca) form the staple food of Kerala. All main dishes are made with them and served along with Kootan; the side dishes which may be made from vegetables, meat, fish or a mix of all of them. The main dish for lunch and dinner is boiled rice.If you love cooking and prefer healthy food for your family, you may want to check this brilliant blog by Sangeeta . And here is a recipe for Chicken stew Mughlai Style.Let me give another tip to fellow travellers for exploring authentic food of Kerala. Prefer staying in Home Stays and do proper research. We were lucky to have great experience of home stays in Kerala. If you plan to explore Wayanad, here are 2 recommendations - Treasure Trove and Bamboo Village.As you can see, banana leaves are used in different forms. Apart from serving food on banana leaf, it's also used for cooking. At our homestay, we used to get home cooked snacks with evening tea. What an awesome stay it was. I wish to go there right now. Non-veg was main part of all our meals at Kerala. I found it interesting when fish and chicken vendors sell various types of fish on bicycle. While staying at Bamboo village, we met some vendors who were selling 4-5 types of small fish and almost every villager was buying fish. Banana is other main ingredient of Kerala food. In fact, unripe banana are also used in various ways. Banana pakoras, boiled banana, banana chips etc. I am sure that banana must be used in 10 other forms in Kerala. I didn't like boiled banana which was served to us in breakfast. Either I ate it in wrong way or I could relate to it's taste.




India is also referred to as 'God's Own Country'. Kerala is a coastal state in India and has rich traditions, culture and lush unspoiled tropical beauty with unmatchable landscapes. Kerala is popularly known for its landscapes, backwaters, food, elephants, Theyyam & various types of spices. Kerala is perfect destination for folks visiting India and even for Indians who want to spend some time at peace & slow pace of life. Kerala has options for different types for tourists and travellers. This post lists some of the popular places to explore and things to do in Kerala state of India. Munnar - Usually I hate to do comparisons of places because it's usually unfair, as every place is unique. But I would like to call out that Munnar is popularly known as Kashmir of South India. Munnar is one of the key destination in Kerala which attracts lot of domestic and foreigner tourists to Kerala. It's a beautiful hill station which has lush green tea estates apart from spice plantations.Some of the popular places to explore in Munnar are Eravikulam National Park, Indo Swiss Dairy Farm, Chinnar Wild Life Sanctuary, Anamudi, Tata Tea Museum, Idukki Arch Dam.Thekkady - Thekkady is one of the most important tourist destinations in Kerala state of South India. Thekkady is located in the famous Periyar National Park. The Periyar National Park is home to a large number of Indian elephants, lion-tailed Macaques, Nilgiri Langurs, Indian bison and Bengal Tigers. Mullaperiyar Dam around the area on the Periyar River and formed an artificial lake for Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary.Kovalam Light house beach in Kovalam is must visit place. And I am sure that you must have seen some exceptional photographs of lighthouse beach. Just notice the lighthouse in above photograph and you would be able to recall other photographs from same place and beach. Kovalam is also known as beach town of Kerala. It is also known as the paradise of the south and beaches of KOvalam are considered some of the best beaches in India. Kovalam means a grove of coconut trees and true to its name the village offers an endless sight of coconut trees. Alleppey - Alappuzha is an important backwater tourist destination in Kerala. Alleppey is one of the most preferred place for tourists, which attracts several thousands of foreign tourists each year. If you have ever watched boat races, Alleppy is the place to host these events. Apart from boat races Alleppy is also popularly known for beaches, marine products and coir industry. Allapuza Backwaters is a must experience thing in Kerala.Some of the other interesting other places around Alleppy include Statue Of Karumadikuttan, Mannarasala Sri Nagaraja Temple and Revi Karuna Karan (RKK) Memorial Museum.Wayanad - Wayanad is north Kerala and popular for it's tea & coffee plantations. Hilly region of Kerala which has plenty of natural things to explores. Lakes, Waterfalls, caves, tea estates, adventure activities, home stays, wildlife and lot more. Kalpetta, Pookot Lake , Edakkal Caves , Pakshipathalam, Lakkidi, Sulthan Bathery, Banasura Sagar , Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary, Neelimala view point , Meenmutty falls and Curuva Island are some of the popular places to explore in Wayanad. On our blog, we have shared about some of the best home-stays in Wayanad and incredible experience of Bamboo village. Check out more on the blog and I am sure that you would definitely plan for this region of Kerala.Vagamon hill station is located on Idukki - Kottayam border area. A best place to spend time during summers of Kerala. Vagamon is immensely beautiful with many points of tourist interest, which offer great landscapes. The meadows, forests and hills surrounded by fog/clouds make this place more interesting. ( Cochin ) / Ernakulam - If you are taking flight to south Kerala, most likely you would be hitting Kochi first. Kochi is located in Ernakulam district of Kerela, which was earlier known as Cochin. Kochi is also an important seaport in India. Ernakulam is popular for shopping options in Kerala. I haven't really done shopping in Kerala but this is well known fact about Ernakulam. Some of the popular places to explore around Cochin include Jewish Synagogue, Cherai Beach, Marine Drive, Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica, Fort kochi & Chinese Fishing Nets, Mattancherry Palace, Kodanad Elephant Sanctuary, Ezhattumugham Nature Village and Athirappally Falls. Thiruvananthapuram - Poovar is a small village in the Southern tip of Trivendrum. Around Poovar beach you can explore mangroves, floating restaurants, varieties of birds and biodiversity. The beach is pristine with golden sand with no or less people. Solitude’s comfort, you see! Fisherman waiting to trap the fishes in their giant nets at one corner and eagles and crows waiting for the fishes to be their fodder. Nature, oh nature, vicious circle, it is Some of the interesting places to explore around Thiruvanantpuram are Priyadarshini Planetarium, Vizhinjam Rock Cut Temple, Kuthiramalika, Kanakakunnu Palace. A photograph of Coffee plants from Kerala state of India. some of the old temples. Some of the temples around Kannur celebrate Theyyam festival and lot of foreigner tourists visit Kannur for Theyyam. Thottada beach is one of the popular and isolated beach in Kannur. Riding around these beaches and backwaters can be interesting.Kumarakom Houseboats Kumarakom is most popular tourist spot located near the Kottayam city and famous for its houseboats in backwaters of Vembanad Lake. Vembanad Lake is the largest freshwater lake of Kerala and longest lake in India. Kumarakom is a famous Bird Sanctuary and home to a wide variety of local and migratory birds.One of the most important recommendation is to try Kerala food when you are in Kerala, but be careful about the quantity you order. Usually lot of curries are served, so it's recommended to order the minimum portion from menu and then decide, if you need more.



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