KERALA GUIDE
I'vebeen very lucky that Amala Chai has taken me to beautiful areas in India during my sourcing trips. From the hills of Assam in the north-east to the sloped loamy soils of Kerala in the south, I've managed to meet incredible regenerative farmers, learn about the constant challenges of modern agriculture, and also travel around each state. It would be a shame not to share some of the special places I have visited so here is my very own guide to Kerala. This is by no means a comprehensive guide, but I hope it can encourage you to travel around Kerala .
Kochi
Kochi is a vibrant port city with a mix of Portugese, Dutch & South Indian agriculture. It's a great starting point for any Keralan trip and is split between the old districts of Manttancherry and Fort Cochin and the newer Ernakulam. It is best to base yourself on Mattancherry where you are near to the many spice markets and various architectural buildings but travel into Ernakulam to taste some of the best Southern Indian food.
Wayanad
You may have not heard of Wayanad but it is possibly my favourite area in Kerala. Wayanad is a lush forested region situated by the Western Ghats and offers spectacular natural beauty alongside spice plantations and wildlife sightings. From canoeing in Banasura Sagar Dam to hiking up Chembra peak to the Edakkal caves, Wayanad does not dissappoint.
Kannur
A coastal town known for its lush green forests, beaches and temples, Kannur is a great place to stop by and relax if you are passing through Northern Kerala. Thottada beach was the one of the quietest and cleanest beaches I had been to in Kerala and the biriyani at Ajwa was special.
Alappuzha
The number one place the experience the Kerala backwaters is Allepey. The backwaters are a network of canals and lagoons and cruising on a houseboat through these tranquil waters is a must. Make sure to stop by The Chaiwala by the light house for the best chai in town.
Munnar
Possibly the most dramatic and beautiful tea estates in the world are set in Munnar. Whilst the central town is a little bit grubby, the surrounding areas and drives are really special. Make sure to go to the Kolukkumalai view point!
Periyar National Park
Mountain scenery, lake cruises and jungle walks make Periyar National Park a must visit. The park is home to tigers, herds of elephants, rare lion-tailed macaques, sambar deer, leopards and Indian bison and the best time to visit is after the rains where the park will be bright green.
Varkala
Finish your trip with a trip to the Southern Coast where you can either go to Varkala, Kollam or Trivandrum. Varkala is known for its palm-covered red cliffs and be sure to stay on the quieter south-cliff.
Food
Kerala's fertile land mixed with influences from Malabari, Arabian & French cuisine, makes the food is nothing short of delicious. Here are a few things you should definitely try when you are out there:
- Idiyappam/appam with curry
- Puttu & kadala curry
- Ela Sadaya
- Dosa ghee roast with sambar
- Idli Sambar
- Kerala fish curry
- Nadan beef
- Thalasserry biriyani
- Malabar parota with curry
- Payasam
- Fried banana
Akhil Patel 07/01/2023
