Kerala, a state in the South of India is known for it’s gorgeous backwaters, canals, tea and spice plantations and palm tree lined beaches. Alleppey in particular was by far the most relaxed place I visited in India, with a much more tranquil feel to the North.
A million miles from home in Alleppey
Arriving in Alleppey was like stumbling upon a small slice of paradise,
Very different to the North’s crazy and busy cities, it felt like a million miles away. My first thought was the amount of palm trees everywhere, so big and green and filling every space, all packed full with coconuts. There’s something about palm trees for me that is just so tropical and far from home, the ultimate definition of paradise.
I arrived at a lovely homestay with my tour group, our rooms right on Kerala’s backwaters, surrounded by palm trees and tropical fruit growing everywhere. We had a guided walk around town, through various plantations, being taught about the types of plants and fruit they use everyday.
The friendly villagers came out to greet us, children splashed around in the canal and goats and chickens roamed around freely. Such a small, welcoming little village with a slow pace of life that was well received by the group after a tiring few days travelling. The highlight of this place was most definitely the boat ride at sunset .
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Changing colours of Kerala’s backwaters…
We hopped onto dug out canoes and set off around the village backwaters, slowly drifting through the canals and palm trees, all filled with an abundance of coconuts. As the sun set the sky was ever-changing, from yellow to dusty pink and purple followed by a deep orange, that not only filled the sky but the water too. Images of the sky and palm trees reflected off the water, tips of the tress glowed orange until finally turning into beautiful silhouettes, whilst the water gently rippled as we slowly waded through. It was just stunning.
We ate well that night back at the homestay and again in the morning I awoke to a striking sunrise, mirroring the sunset of the previous night. Followed by a breakfast of fresh fruit and coconut bread I felt completely stress free, not wanting to be anywhere other than there, in that moment.
Alleppey certainly lived up to its reputation and actually was even better than I had expected. If you’re looking for a break after rushing around the busier parts of India then Alleppey is where you need to head! 2 or 3 days here and you will surely feel relaxed, energised and ready to get back on the travelling horse (if that’s even a thing?!).
| More Indian adventures: Meeting the Villagers of Tordi Sagar, India |
Hope you enjoyed this post on the beautiful Kerala’s backwaters… if you’re ever in India then be sure to check out the backwaters of Alleppey- you won’t regret it!
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