Having witnessed the onset of the monsoons in Kovalam
and traversed the countryside of Kerala
soaking it in , the next stop is Karnataka. A neighbouring state, Karnataka is
also endowed with amazing beaches, distinct cuisine and a rich cultural
heritage and natural splendor.
As
you drive down from Kasaragod
in Kerala to Udupi in
Karnataka, you can read up on this coastal city’s riveting back story on how it
got its name. Udupi is steeped in culture and boasts of lip smacking Udupi
foods like idlis, vadas and golibaje and beautiful beaches that you can soak
in, in Udupi as Udupi soaks in the rains.
Further up, North of Udupi, stop by at Banavasi.
Not a regular on most tourist maps, this little gem of a destination is an
atypical spot, casting its spell on you with its ancient architecture and
bucolic lifestyle. Banavasi has something for the historians, architecture
buffs, and for those seeking something unique. A monthly pineapple fete is held
on the first weekend of every month where a group of women cook up a veritable pineapple
storm.Don’t forget to try the local “khanavalis”, or small local cafes that
serve hot, delicious food with a dose of warmth, generosity and love.
As you bid adieu to Banavasi, it’s time to
let your jaws drop at the sight of Jog. Jog Falls are the tallest single tiered
cascade in India. Get up close, personal and wet and sprayed as you slowly and carefully
climb down the 1380 steps to the base of the waterfalls, or get a view from the
old British bungalow across the road. Its sight cannot leave you unmoved, as
the 4 falls Raja, Roarer, Rocket and Rani spill the Sharavathi river over the
mountainside in a breathtaking spectacle of Mother Nature at work.
As you
watch the folk dance Dollukunitha being performed in the night, hear the
thud of cymbals, feel your heart pound in tandem, you feel truly blessed as
Mother Nature showers you with her benevolence.
Wake up next morning and follow the rains to Susegado, sea,
sand and feni. Any guesses?
