Explore Kerala With Its Water Elements – Inditales

Kerala always reminds me of our deep-rooted connection with water. Science tells us that our bodies are 70% water and so is mother earth. If you take an aerial view of Kerala, you would see water bodies criss-crossing the state landscape, as if like the earth it is also trying to contain as much water as possible. Water remember is the very basis of existence of life.

On the western side of Kerala is the coast kissing the Arabian sea, with many of its beaches lined up with tourists enjoying the serene beauty between sand and the waves hitting this sand. From Kovalam beach at the southern edge of the state to the Bekal Fort beach in the north, there are many options for the visitors to choose from. For example, Varkala, a little north of Kovalam, continues to be favorite for its red laterite cliffs that let you observe the ocean from a vantage point, as the waves play with the shore. At Kollam beach, I remember the Thangassery lighthouse with red and white stripes going around it, imitating the waves of the sea. Standing there, I wondered how many sailors would have found solace when they sighted this after a long journey.

Then, who can forget the enchanting Kerala backwaters with their lush greenery reflecting in the peaceful waters while they are balancing the flow between the rivers and the ocean. They are the signature elements of Kerala’s landscape attracting tourists from across the world. Interestingly these also act as waterways and you can travel on them. These waterways in Kerala are formed by curious paths formed by the intersection of 40+ west flowing rivers that fall into Arabian sea and the backwaters. These waterways carry both the people and freight on them. Once upon a time, most of India was full of such waterways as a major mode of transportation. Kerala has managed to keep this legacy living by keeping it in active use. It is also a perfect way to enjoy Kerala on a slow mode.

I remember on my first visit to Fort Kochi decades ago, I took the water ferry that costed me less than one Rupee. It has become a memory that continues to bring a smile to my face. I would visit Fort Kochi again in my subsequent visits, always looking forward to this ride on water. I am happy to know that a water metro is something I can enjoy on my next trip. When you travel on water, it is like a boat being a moving bridge that takes you across. Over time I would…