Today we’re headed to Kerala, a state on India’s southwestern coast where ancient backwaters meet misty mountain tea gardens, sacred temples, and spice-scented markets that have drawn travelers from across the world for thousands of years.

Joining me today are Anil Pathak, our partner in the region, and Manoj Vasudevan, an award-winning guide and photographer who has led everyone from Anthony Bourdain to National Geographic journalists through this remarkable region.

We talk about everything from how the spice trade shaped Kerala’s identity, to experiencing the backwaters without the crowds, to what this place reveals about humanity when you really take the time to look closely.

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Listen to hear:

• 01:16 – About what’s unfolding all around Kerala
• 03:07 – Where this remarkable place sits within India
• 05:36 – Why geography and geology shape everyday life in Kerala
• 08:52 – A defining story from history that still shapes Kerala today
• 14:57 – How literacy, healthcare, and social progress became part of Kerala’s identity
• 16:18 – What makes Kerala culturally distinct from the rest of India
• 18:25 – Why Kerala reveals itself differently once you begin to look closely
• 19:36 – Who the people of Kerala want the world to truly understand them to be
• 21:34 – About the rhythm and pace of traveling through Kerala
• 23:21 – How to think more deeply about wellness experiences
• 26:02 – Where the backwaters of Kerala begin to slow everything down
• 28:16 – What to consider when choosing boats and backwater experiences
• 29:28 – Where travelers should go to experience Kerala’s wildlife
• 32:39 – When celebrations and festivals bring Kerala fully to life
• 36:47 – How festival experiences are thoughtfully created for guests
• 39:08 – About spiritual journeys and temple experiences here
• 40:24 – Which guest memory has stayed closest over the years
• 45:15 – About a few fun facts on Kerala
• 50:52 – What you will learn about the world and humanity by visiting Kerala