Travel
Periyar National Park
Cliff beach in Varkala
Plans for Thekkady consisted of Safari in Periyar National Park , however , after reaching there I discovered that the only option available to me was the boat ride as most other activities were organised for groups — first downside of solo traveling . So , after my original plans for Thekkady got defeated , with the help of my hosts I had put together a stereotypically touristy itinerary for the day , saving the boat ride for next morning . I began with fulfilling my ardent wish of riding an Elephant at Elephant junction . The bumpy ride on the mighty but calm animal was exhilarating . Next was an excursion to Green Spice Plantation . In the lingering aroma of cardamoms , cloves and pepper among other spices , the guide gave us an insightful walk through the plantation explaining the growing and processing of spices ; a memorable experience one cannot miss when in the heartland of spices . Kalaripayattu , a martial art form that originated in Kerala was the next venture . Action-packed with sword fights and fire stunts , Kalaripayattu , likewise Kathakali , is a must-watch . Post the dramatics , I decided to conclude the eventful day with an ayurveda massage .
Next morning was the day to spot some animals in their natural reserve . On my way to Periyar Park , driver of the autorickshaw instructed me to start running soon after getting off the auto . Finding it absurd I didn ’ t enquire further only to find a few minutes later as we approached the entry gate that people indeed were running hysterically towards the lake . Seeing the apparent confusion on my face , the driver explained that tickets are being sold on first come first serve basis and I too should join the race , which I did . Laughing hysterically , I was living the Forrest Gump moment .
With great scenic charm the jungle was nothing short of majestic . However , I wasn ’ t too lucky to spot many animals except a few wild boars and a bison . Post the rather comical boat ride experience , I took a bus for Kottayam to catch a train for the cliff city , Varkala .
Varkala was a stoppage for my love for beaches and to unwind after the incessant running around in last four days . Hunt for accommodation on the clifftop didn ’ t begin too well as after an hour-long failed attempt for a place in my budget , I had to shell out `1000 for a sub-standard room in a guesthouse . However , during my search I managed to book a room in Daffodils homestay for `500 for the following day . Daffodils experience was that of a quintessential homestay with a kitchen for travellers to use and joint meals organised for the guests by the host Ricchu , a cheerful local guy nearly my age who had also helped me in finding a room for the night .
Nestled at the bottom of the red cliff , Varkala beach is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts with activities such as parasailing , surfing , etc on offer . However , for me the day was only about soaking sun on the beach only interrupted by dips in the sea and gorging myself on sea food at several cafes on the cliff . Post sunset , the
72
Outlook Money December 2017 www . outlookmoney . com