Mainland of Kochi

After a eight hour train ride south from Mangalore, we arrived in Kerala. Our goal was to reach the island Kochi, but we ended up staying a few days on the busy mainland called Ernakulam first. This part of the city was much more commercialized with busy and crowded streets. It was a fun place to do some window-shopping, but we were far more interested in spending some relaxing time at the island of Kochi, just a 2 rupee(0,20NOK) boat ride away. Even though it was just fifteen minutes away, we were told that the locals had a much more laid back attitude, and the atmosphere was more quiet and peaceful.

 From Ernakulam we were also offered to join a 7 hour trip to the famous Keralan backwaters, which we gladly paid 400 rupees (40NOK) for. Included in the price was breakfast and guiding on a traditional Indian houseboat, and a personal canoe sightseeing trip through the narrow, almost jungle like backwaters. Our guide also let us step out of the boat to climb coconut trees, taste fresh oysters, watch toddy tappers (people who collect coconut flower liquor) and see a small village known for their rope making.