First of all, I would like to introduce you to the “Lungi”. The “Lungi” is a long strip of cotton, that men in the Indian state Kerala wear instead of pants. It can be worn at ankle length or simply folded and fixed, so that it reaches only until the knees. The second method is most popular when walking.
When we arrived in Chochin by plane, it was once again early in the morning, and we were suddenly surrounded by Lungis. The old town of Cochin is located on a penisula and calld Fort Kochi. It was our place to stay. Ebin, our Couchsurfing host, offers bycicle tours in Fort Kochi and so we took a tour and learned more about that crowded place with its narrow streets and small houses. We kind of felt like put back in time…
We plunged into this new culture with all its habits and peculiarities. It’s so completely different from what we’re used to, so we reckon it might take some time to really get the hang of it.
Cochin is famous for its Backwaters, situated along the coast of the Arabian Sea. We took a ride on a traditional houseboat that – once upon a time – used to carry rice form one place to another. We landed in a small paradise, it seemed: beautiful islands all over, palm trees, fishermen, shell collectors, women washing their cloth, kids standing and waving along the shore, cows, a water snake, colorful birds and butterflies.
One evening, we attended a traditional show named “Kathakali”. It is kind of a dance drama, originating in the 17th century. A lot of make-up and elaborate costumes are key. The actors move acompanied by drummers and a singer and tell their sories with gestures and facial expression only.
Diwali – the festival of lights – took place during our stay in Cochin. We realized that Indian fireworks are much louder than the Swiss ones – and that security rules are either ignored or don’t exist at all. It was quite fun to see the happy faces and to hear everyone scream “happy Diwaliiii”.
Last but not least, we totally fell for Indian food. All hope for recovery is lost.
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