For the last 200 years, people have been sailing to Kerala in search of spices, sandalwood and ivory. Today, beside being one of the most progressive, literate and highly educated states in India, Kerala also impresses with its beautiful coast and its Backwaters. They are a complex network of lakes, rivers and canals, where people live on narrow stretches of land only a few metres wide.
We spent two relaxing days at the accomodating Bamboostix resort, swimming amidst floating plants, having an Indian barbecue and taking a canoe trip along the coastal lagoons through rice fields, mango trees and coconut palms.
Travelling further north, we went to see Kochi, one of India’s largest ports situated on a cluster of islands and narrow peninsulas. It is home to 500-year-old Portuguese houses, has a historic Jewish quarter and boasts Chinese-style fishing nets that are typical for this city.
An evening at the Kathakali dance theatre completed our stay in Kochi. This major dance form originating from Kerala was originally performed only in royal palaces. It contains mime, drama, music, acting and is exclusively danced by men. The stories are mainly taken from Hindu mythology telling of epic battles of gods and demons. We learned that to become a Kathakali artist, students are taught drums (chenda), singing, acting and make-up for 8-10 years.
