Kerala: of Water, Spices and History

When I think of Kerala, I close my eyes and all I can see are emerald palm trees swaying alongside golden beaches. While it is also famous for its tea estates and jungles, it is by the water that my Keralan dreams remain. It seems only fitting then that God’s Own Country hosts the grand water festival, Attuvela Mahotsavam.

Attuvela Mahotsavam – The Magnificent Water Festival

Held on April 11^th, Attuvela Mahotsavam takes place near Vaikom in the Kottayam district. It is associated with the Elanku Bhagavathy temple, and celebrates the welcome ceremony for Goddess Kodungallur Bhagavathy when she came to visit her sister the Goddess of Elankavu here. The temple is decorated and illuminated canoes sail down the river carrying replicas of the sacred building. With traditional Indian music playing in the background, the water procession is a simply stunning sight.

Fascinating Old Town

Vaikom is located near the old town of Fort Kochi, a gorgeous place where I was lucky enough to spend a few weeks recently. My favourite part of Fort Kochi is Jew Town. Home to the oldest synagogue in India, this area brings together a beautiful blend of Europe and India. The synagogue was built in 1568, and whilst it is tiny, it has been well maintained.  With a decorative gold pulpit and brilliant blue, hand painted tiles from China, it is lit by glass lamps and chandeliers from Belgium.

The area surrounding the synagogue is a treasure trove for anyone who loves shopping and exploring antiques. From intricate hand-made lace to gorgeous old antiques from an age where craftsmen made furniture to last. It is also the best place in town to pick up fragrant spices grown in the region.  With its tropical weather and fertile soil, Kerala is famous for its spice trade, including cardamom, turmeric and cloves. There is so much to see in this Keralan shopping district, I remember going back every couple of days to look through the shops and galleries, and kept finding new treasures that I had missed before!

Portugese Influence

The Portuguese certainly left their mark on this part of India, with the grand St Francis Church that still conducts services. Built in 1503, it is believed to be the oldest European church in India. The church once housed the remains of the great explorer Vasco Da Gama, and his old tombstone can still be seen there. Mantancherry Palace is another Portuguese architectural site that was given to the Raja of Kochi, Veera Kerala Varma. The Dutch came in during the 17^th century and gave the old building a facelift, much of which can still be seen today. The Palace also provides some interesting information about the history of Kerala.

Want to be part of God’s Own Country? MakeMyTrip offers convenient flights to Trivandrum and Cochin from where you can hire a car or take a bus to Vaikom.