Travel Inspiration: Lakshadweep and Kochi

Lakshadweep: Paradise Found

I departed on January 30, embarking on a trip that would lead me to one of India's most serene and less-explored destinations: Lakshadweep. After a comfortable IndiGo flight from Bangalore to Agatti, the journey continued with a scenic boat ride to Bangaram Island Resort, where I stayed for two nights. The island is as close to paradise as one can get, surrounded by crystal-clear waters, soft sands, and a tranquil atmosphere that seemed designed for reflection and creative inspiration.

During my time on Bangaram, I took day trips to nearby islands like Parali and Thinakkara. The boat rides themselves were peaceful, but what truly stood out were the moments spent on these smaller islands. I witnessed incredible wildlife, including turtles, and explored sandbars that emerged from the water like secret hideaways. The serene beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and textures of dead corals washed up on shore became the perfect muse for my artistic work. As an artist, I couldn't help but capture the contrast of soft beach hues, the deep blues and greens of the sea, and the delicate colors of the coral reefs. Even the subtle textures of coral on the sand sparked new ideas for patterns and design.

Kochi: Where History Meets Art

After my time in Lakshadweep, I boarded another IndiGo flight back to Agatti and then flew to Kochi, a quaint and charming port town in Kerala known for its rich history and thriving art scene.

Kochi has a fascinating story. It was here that Vasco da Gama, the first Portuguese explorer to reach India, landed in Calicut (Kozhikode) on May 20, 1498. This marked the first European arrival in India by sea, forever changing the cultural and trade landscape of the region. As I wandered through the streets, it was hard not to feel the weight of history, with remnants of its colonial past mixed with vibrant Indian life.

We stayed at Hotel Arches, a charming boutique hotel nestled in the heart of Kochi. Its inviting atmosphere and convenient location allowed us to easily explore the city's hidden gems.

One of the highlights of my time in Kochi was a walking tour called Kochi Stories, conducted by the amazing guide Ajita Skaria. Ajita's deep knowledge and passion for the city brought its history to life in such a captivating way. The stories she shared, from the spice trade to the cultural exchanges with foreign traders, added a layer of depth to every corner we visited. If you’re ever in Kochi, I highly recommend this tour—it’s an unforgettable way to experience the city.

Artistic Inspiration: Nature and Street Art

As an artist, I always find myself observing the world around me through a lens of color, pattern, and texture. My time in Lakshadweep brought a wave of inspiration, especially from the island's natural beauty. The gradient of the sky during sunrise, the infinite shades of blue in the sea, and the soft textures of coral—everything felt like it was painted by nature itself.

In Kochi, the creative energy took on a different form. I was captivated by the street art and murals that adorned the city, vibrant splashes of color that seemed to reflect the dynamic culture and history of the place. I couldn’t help but snap photos, each mural telling its own unique story, and I felt an urge to translate these stories into my own art.

Final Thoughts

Travel often has a profound effect on how I view the world, and my time in Lakshadweep and Kochi was no exception. The beauty, history, and creativity of both places will continue to inspire my work for months to come. If you’re ever looking for a destination that blends nature and culture, I cannot recommend these two locations enough. Whether it’s the peaceful, untouched islands of Lakshadweep or the vibrant, history-rich streets of Kochi, both will leave you with memories and inspirations that last long after you return home.

Notable hotels and eateries to check out:

• Bangaram Island Resort, Lakshadweep
• Hotel Arches, Kochi, Kerala
• Rasoi, Kochi, Kerala
• French Toast Cafe, Kochi Kerala
• Trouvaille Cafe, Kochi, Kerala