A Spiritual Sojourn from Lucknow to Kovalam – Exploring the Soul of Kerala
- Ashutosh Gupta
- Apr 10
- 4 min read
Traveling is not just about reaching a destination—it’s about the journey, the stories, and the experiences that stay with you long after the trip ends. My recent trip from the culturally rich city of Lucknow, the heart of Uttar Pradesh, to the serene coastal town of Kovalam in Kerala was one such experience—a beautiful blend of spirituality, natural beauty, culture, and flavor.
The Journey Begins – From Lucknow to Trivandrum
Our journey started from Lucknow Airport on a calm night, with a flight scheduled at 10:30 PM. With a four-hour layover at Bangalore, we prepared ourselves for a long night of travel. Airports at night have a unique charm—dim lighting, quieter terminals, and the anticipation of an adventure ahead. We used the layover to rest, sip some coffee, and plan the itinerary for the next few days.
By early morning, around 6:30 AM, we landed at Trivandrum International Airport, greeted by the warm, humid air and lush greenery Kerala is known for. The transition from North to South India was evident—not just in the weather but in the language, architecture, and vibe. It felt like stepping into another world within the same country.
A Warm Welcome and a Scenic Start
Outside the airport, our driver Manoj awaited us with a smile. A humble and polite man, he instantly made us feel at home. As we made our way to Sagara Beach Resort in Kovalam, we took a brief stop at Shanghumugham Beach. The early morning sun cast a golden hue over the waves, and the rhythmic sound of the ocean was a refreshing contrast to the dry air and busy streets of Lucknow.
Before heading to the hotel, we stopped for a local breakfast. We tried Puttu Kadala—a steamed rice cake served with black chickpea curry—and the ever-popular Poori Bhaji. The flavors were earthy and comforting, giving us a much-needed energy boost after the long journey.
Rest and Refresh at Sagara Beach Resort
After checking into Sagara Beach Resort, a peaceful property overlooking the Arabian Sea, we took some time to relax. The overnight travel had left us exhausted, and a short nap was just what we needed. The room had a lovely sea-facing balcony, and the soft crashing of waves provided a lullaby of its own.
Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple – A Spiritual Experience
At 3 PM, feeling recharged, we set out for our first spiritual stop: the majestic Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Trivandrum. On the way, Manoj informed us about the temple dress code. It was heartening to see how traditions are preserved and respected here.
Dress Code Highlights:
Women: Sarees are preferred, but if you’re not wearing one, you can wrap a dhoti around your legs.
Men: Must wear a dhoti. Shirts or kurtas are optional but not allowed inside the sanctum; most men enter bare-chested.
We bought the required attire from nearby stalls and joined the line of devotees. The temple’s architecture was breathtaking—towering gopurams, intricate carvings, and a spiritual aura that enveloped the entire complex.
Inside, we had a divine darshan of Lord Vishnu, reclining on Anantha, the serpent. The idol, one of the largest in India, stretches across three doors and is a marvel to behold. There’s a sense of peace and stillness here, unlike any other temple I’ve visited.
Exploring the Temple Market
After the darshan, we wandered through the temple market, a bustling place filled with souvenirs, idols, incense sticks, and traditional Kerala clothing. The aroma of jasmine flowers, sandalwood, and local snacks filled the air. We picked up some temple souvenirs and chatted with a few friendly shopkeepers who were happy to share stories about the temple's history and mystery.
Dinner at Mother’s Veg Recipe – A Culinary Delight
Next stop—Mother’s Veg Recipe, a local favorite known for its authentic Kerala Sadya. Sadya is a traditional vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf with an array of dishes—curries, pickles, chutneys, payasam, and more.
We also indulged in Malai Kofta, which, though North Indian in origin, was made with a subtle South Indian twist—rich, creamy, and satisfying. Every bite was a burst of flavor, and the warmth of the hosts made the meal even more special.
Kaithal Chicken – A Spicy Treat
On the way back to our hotel, we couldn’t resist stopping at a small roadside stall famous for Kaithal Chicken—a local delicacy. Cooked in traditional spices with coconut oil, curry leaves, and dry red chilies, the dish was fiery but finger-licking good. It perfectly balanced our vegetarian lunch with a non-veg punch for dinner.
Chips, Spices, and Shopping
No trip to Kerala is complete without grabbing a few packs of their world-famous banana chips. We bought fresh hot banana chips, fried right in front of us in coconut oil, giving them a unique taste and crunch. We also picked up some local spices—pepper, cardamom, and clove—that Kerala is so famous for.
A Night Stroll at Kovalam Beach
Back at the resort, the night was still young. We took a walk along Kovalam Beach, where the moonlight shimmered on the water, and the cool breeze carried the salty scent of the sea. Street vendors were still open, selling seashell trinkets, handmade crafts, and hot tea. We sat on the rocks, dipped our feet in the water, and let the sound of the waves soothe our tired bodies.
Reflections on the Day
It had been a day full of transitions—from city to coast, from temples to beaches, from spicy curries to spiritual serenity. Each moment brought a new flavor, a new sight, and a new connection with the culture of Kerala.
The trip had just begun, but this first day had already set the tone for an unforgettable journey. It reminded me that traveling in India is not just about moving from one location to another—it’s about immersing yourself in stories, traditions, and the everyday beauty of life in different corners of this vast country.
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