12 Days in Kerala: A Journey of Nature, Adventure, and Culture”

Kerala solo trip: A Journey Through Paradise – Café Hopping, Jungle Retreats, and Idduki Gold.

The lighthouse

Kerala, known as “God’s Own Country,” lured me with promises of lush green jungles, riverside camps, delicious cuisine, thrilling bike rides, road trips, refreshing drinks, birdwatching, and the legend of Idduki Gold. Armed with a backpack and a tent, I embarked on a 12-day journey that would lead me through Munnar, Wayanad, Idduki, Kovalam, and Trivandrum, uncovering the incredible beauty and culture of this southwestern Indian paradise.

Days 1-3: Munnar – Tea Estates and Chai Bliss

My adventure began in Munnar, the tea capital of Kerala. My tent nestled amidst picturesque tea plantations, where each morning offered mesmerizing sunrises. Days were filled with explorations of the Western Ghats on my trusty bike, and evenings were reserved for sipping freshly brewed chai at local tea stalls, paired with scrumptious South Indian cuisine.

Days 4-6: Wayanad – Riverside Serenity and Café Culture

Wayanad welcomed me with pristine rivers and dense jungles, offering an idyllic escape. My riverside campsite lulled me to sleep with the soothing sounds of flowing waters. Days were dedicated to thrilling river rafting and chasing hidden waterfalls, while evenings were spent cafe hopping, savoring local delicacies, and engaging in heartfelt conversations with the friendly locals.

Days 7-9: Idduki – In Pursuit of Gold and an Epic Road Trip

Idduki, famous for the elusive Idduki Gold, beckoned. A day was dedicated to uncovering the mysteries of this remote gem, followed by evenings by the bonfire, sharing stories and enjoying authentic local dishes with newfound friends.

Days 10-12: Kovalam and Trivandrum – Beach Vibes and Cultural Immersion

The final leg took me to the coastal haven of Kovalam. Pristine beaches provided a tranquil respite. I embarked on a bike ride along the coastline, with waves crashing nearby, creating a symphony of nature. Evenings were for sipping coconut water and savoring the finest seafood delicacies.

Trivandrum allowed me to dive deep into Kerala’s rich cultural heritage. Ancient temples, vibrant markets, and the heartbeat of local life embraced me. I sampled street food, danced to traditional music, and immersed myself in the vivacious atmosphere.

In addition to all these experiences, Kerala is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Birdwatching was a fascinating pastime throughout my journey. Kerala’s diverse ecosystems are home to an incredible variety of bird species. From the beautiful Indian Pitta in Munnar to the Malabar Hornbill in Wayanad, I was awestruck by the avian wonders that surrounded me.

And of course, no visit to Kerala would be complete without trying your hand at fishing. The tranquil rivers and backwaters provide ample opportunities for anglers. My days by the riverside camp in Wayanad often involved casting a line and reeling in some of the freshest catches, which were later prepared in the most delectable ways.

This 12-day expedition through Kerala was a magical blend of experiences, from the serene jungles to vibrant cities, aromatic chai to mouthwatering seafood, exhilarating bike rides to tranquil riverbank moments, and everything in between. The memories and connections I made with the people of Kerala were genuine, and the natural beauty of the region lived up to its title as ‘God’s Own Country.’