20 to 23 days Sunday, January 24, 2016 Kochi - Kerala

Namaste,

next stop Kochi in Kerala. This time not by train or bus but by flight I reached Kochi International Airport. And the decision to take the city bus this time was a rather bad decision as I landed at 4 pm and thus got stuck in the rush hour in Ernakulam on the way to Fort/Kochi and was trapped in the bus for almost 3 hours (annoying). Finally at 7 pm, I reached the hotel or rather private accommodation. And well, since it was already dark, I could enjoy the first evening on site in peace.

The next morning, I immediately set out to explore the city. In doing so, I came across several sights, especially the Chinese fishing nets, which are quite interestingly constructed.

Furthermore, I saw several churches, which are quite numerous here as everything is still heavily influenced by Portuguese and Dutch. During my stroll, I also came across the synagogue and of course mosques, Hindu and Jain temples, very multicultural.

In the evening, I attended a great show at the Kathakali Theater. Since I was there an hour before the start, I was able to watch the actors put on makeup and get ready.

Afterwards, I visited a concert in the same place where North Indian music was presented. This was really a great evening with insight into art and music.

The following day, I went to the famous backwaters of Kerala and I must say I am glad that I only did a day tour and not an overnight tour. Although it was actually quite beautiful, peaceful, and relaxing there, overall, in my opinion, it is unfortunately overrated.

Last day in Kochi, I took the ferry to Vypeen Island and from the ferry terminal I continued 25 km by bus to Cherai Beach.

Unfortunately, this beach was not particularly interesting, but here you had peace and could relax.

In the evening, I left Kochi by night train.