The southwestern coast of India has long lured travellers from near and far to wander about its beaches and backwaters, as well as wellness and cultural experiences. But this tropical region’s appeal lies beneath tourist attractions. Kerala’s real charm is its people, their hospitality, and their rich cultural heritage.
Here are our top must-dos while exploring the state, curated with insights from Chef Sapna herself. Read on to see how you can experience the flavours of Kerala with Chef Sapna in person!
1. Take a cooking class
Book one of the many classes available via Klook and Viator and learn how to cook Kerala cuisine from expert cooks. These classes are often taught in the cook’s home. Discover traditions, age-old recipes, and history as you dine with fellow travellers.
Should you find yourself in Fort Kochi, expect an authentic and homely experience learning Syrian Catholic and regional Kerala cuisine from different home cooks who each provide their own traditional recipes and best-kept secrets of Keralan food.
2. Explore the local markets
Visit the Old Spice Market in Mattancherry near Jew Town where you’ll find local seasonal fruits and vegetables, hand-made local crafts, and locally produced spices loaded in gunny sacks. Spice warehouses line the streets where they sort, dry, and pack fresh spices ready to be sent out to the global market.
3. Check out the local art scene
Young creatives will find the art scene in town particularly interesting. Fort Kochi boasts several attractions including old heritage buildings, art galleries, and local art cafes. Two such cafes are the David Hall Cafe and Lila Art Cafe. The Kochi-Muziris Biennale is an international contemporary art exhibition that takes place in the city of Kochi every two years. It is one of the biggest art exhibitions in India and Asia, and one not to be missed.
4. Go on a heritage tour
Discover the cities and towns on a guided walking tour of Fort Kochi and Mattancherry. CHG Earth Hotels offers several packages for tours that showcase both the history of the towns and the best restaurants and shops in the area.
5. Visit the spice farms
The serene town of Thekkady is home to Kerala’s spice farms. Venture to a nearby plantation and find out how the spices are grown, mingle with local farmers, and learn more about the condiments that make up the many different cuisines in this part of the world. Stay at the Spice Village Resort, a tribal resort set in the highlands of Thekkady and take a tour of their spice garden with expert guides.
6. Head to the fish markets
A trip to Vypin Boat Jetty, a local fish market, in the early hours of the day, will grant you the experience of the hustle and bustle of the fish trade. Old forms of fishing using Chinese fishing nets, which were introduced by Zheng He, a Chinese mariner and explorer, are still used to this day by local fishermen.
7. Indulge in an Ayurvedic massage
Unwind with a session at a local Ayurvedic spa, an ancient Indian massage treatment that will rejuvenate you on your trip. Ayurvedic experts will enlighten you, offering useful health tips when you book a session with CGH Earth Ayurveda, considered to be one of the best spas in Kerala.
8. Try the seafood dishes
Being so close to the sea, fishing plays a big part in the economy and cuisine in Kerala. So it only makes sense to sample the best seafood dishes Kerala has to offer. Notable places to try the local seafood include Karthiyayini, Vellakanthari Restaurant, Fort Paragon, and Grand Hotel, amongst others.
9. Venture into various Keralan cuisines
A place rich in spices and cultural influences, Kerala’s cuisine is vast and varied. Some popular cuisines are Syrian Christian cuisine and Malabar-style cooking. You’ll find the best of Kerala’s regional cooking at the Paragon Restaurant, Grand Hotel, and Arippa on Mahatma Gandhi Road.
10. Book a tour of the Alleppey backwaters
The Kerala backwaters are a sought-after tourist attraction, delighting guests in scenic views and a relaxing time on the beautiful houseboat. We recommend staying with Spice Coast Cruises which departs from Alleppey and is known for their impeccable service and hospitality. The on-board chef will prepare you and your company a delicious meal made with local produce and the freshest catch of the day.
Kerala Spice Trail Series
Lunch with Chef Sapna Anand, Petaling Jaya
Spices are at the heart of Keralan food’s unforgettable taste. Chef Sapna, the Queen of Spices, takes you on an incredible journey across her home state of Kerala, inviting you to experience the magic of spices through this intimate presentation of Keralan cuisine.
Saturday, 8 June 2024
11:30am to 2:00pm
Temu House, Section 16, Petaling Jaya
RM125 per person
A classic hearty Keralan banana leaf experience on a Saturday afternoon surrounded by friends, food enthusiasts and those who are looking for an intimate lunch with Chef Sapna as she presents to you, her roots and passions through a banana leaf meal.
Come savour the taste of Kerala with us.
Chef Sapna’s Kerala
A Spice Trail: October 2024, 6D5N Tour
If this has inspired you to hop on a plane to Kerala, we’ve got some exciting news. Join Chef Sapna’s Kerala culinary trip in October 2024 to experience all its food, backwaters, and culture. Scan the QR code above (or click on the link here) and use the code ZAFIGO-SAPNA-KSCT031024A at checkout for 5% OFF on the October edition of the 6D5N tour. There are limited spots available, so book now!
