Being an avid traveler with an intense love for photography, I have always found joy in planning trips that align with nature’s cycles. Typically, my travel plans are a blend of various places chosen for different seasons, each perfect for specific photography styles. I invest a significant amount of time in crafting my itineraries instead of relying on a travel agent. There’s something captivating about tailoring travel plans to match the mood and atmosphere that each season brings. Of all, the monsoon holds a special place in my heart. As a true pluviophile, the rains draw me in – the earthy fragrance after the first downpour, the lush greenery that blooms, and the quiet stillness that seems to wrap itself around nature.

LOVE FOR MONSOONS:

Growing up in Chennai, a location that can be regarded as a “rain shadow region” due to its geographical characteristics and the influence of nearby mountains, I have always been captivated by the monsoon season. This designation as a rain shadow region arises from its position on the leeward side of the Western Ghats. The Western Ghats obstruct the southwest monsoon winds, resulting in reduced rainfall during the southwest monsoon period from June to September, a time when much of India experiences significant precipitation. Conversely, Chennai predominantly receives its rainfall during the northeast monsoon season from October to December, with a considerable amount of this precipitation attributed to low-pressure systems and cyclonic activity.

TALE OF CONTRASTING MONSOON ACROSS INDIA:

Enjoying the rains in my home city Chennai can feel different compared to experiencing monsoons in regions like Kerala or other regions of the Western Ghats. In those regions, rains often feel serene and magical, bringing lush greenery. mist-covered landscapes, and gentle, refreshing showers. Chennai’s rains, on the other hand, tend to be more intense and often coincide with cyclonic weather or heavy downpours. These rains, while exciting, can sometimes lead to flooding and disruption, which might make them feel less enjoyable than the gentler, steady rains in other parts of the country.

Over the years, I have journeyed to numerous locations that vividly transform with the onset of the monsoon season. As a person who loves adventure, I have had countless adventurous monsoon experiences over the years. This year, our monsoon journey took us to Kerala, a place I have always found magical. However, this trip to Kerala was focused on comfort, which is something my better half prefers. At the same time, it had to align with my goals as a photographer. The plan was to explore lesser-known corners, steering away from the usual touristy hotspots. I must say Kerala truly exceeded our expectations offering a much-needed break from the fast-paced life we lead as IT professionals. Throughout our trip, we enjoyed monsoon in a delightful manner. Just us virtually on our journey to what is popularly known as God’s own country. An incredible five days of sheer bliss.

BEGINNING OF AN EXCITING JOURNEY:

This was a day filled with brimming activities, in fact, I will include the days running up to this day. From wrapping up our professional work tasks, to packing our travel bags to choosing the right camera gears, it was never an easy task. However, the satisfaction of turning travel plans into reality is incredibly fulfilling. With an overwhelming enthusiasm, we began our journey to one of the iconic railway stations in our country – Puratchi Thalaivar Dr. M.G. Ramachandran Central Railway Station, popularly known as Chennai Central. It was a long overnight journey ahead of us.

A SOULFUL MONSOON GETAWAY TO KUMARAKOM

We woke up to a delightful rainy morning as we continued our train journey to our first destination. Experiencing the rain while traveling by train is genuinely one of life’s beautiful moments. Our first stop was Kumarakom, where we spent two peaceful days immersed in tranquility. The resort we stayed at was a haven of peace and comfort, offering the kind of hospitality that instantly puts you at ease. The prime highlight was the endless view of the backwaters, calm and beautiful, stretching into the horizon.

Every morning, the view of the endless backwaters stretching out in front of us was nothing short of mesmerizing. The food, an indulgence, was sumptuous and colorful as it looked on the platter. The only time we ventured out was to explore the backwaters on a Shikara boat. Among the several options, Shikara boat ride is the best option to explore the narrow canals before it ventures out into the open waters. For two days, we were lost in the stillness, with nothing but the gentle lapping of the water and the occasional rain tapping on the roof to remind us of the world outside. Together with all these, it was the simplicity of life there that truly rejuvenated our minds.

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