A journey can never be experienced at its fullest unless you have a memorable culinary experience. And if you are a foodie, then pack your bags and embark on a marvelous culinary journey to the southern state of Kerala. This trip will let you explore Kerala’s spices, fresh seafood, aromatic dishes and traditional dishes that you will not get to see anywhere else. It is often said that the food of a region speaks of its age-old culture and tradition. And that holds true for our God’s Own Country too. And a road trip with a self-drive rental car adds freedom and comfort to your journey. We, at Maaz cars, ensure that you get to savour every bite at your own pace in a vehicle of your choice.
Opting for a self drive car in Kerala has its own advantages, especially when you are out to discover hidden culinary gems. You get to stop at roadside eateries that catch your eye. You no longer have to wait in line for hours at restaurants that your tour guide takes you to. Though public transports are cheaper, it comes at the expense of your privacy and freedom. Similarly, when planning a family trip, opting for family trip car rentals provides you privacy, safety and security that public transport might not provide. From luxurious SUVs to comfortable sedans, reputable providers offer a wide range of vehicles to ensure everyone travels in comfort. Plus, with a reliable car rental in Kerala, you can easily navigate between cities, towns, and even remote villages, ensuring you don’t miss out on any local specialties. The flexibility offered by a self-drive rental car lies above everything else. You no longer have to rush your day, nor do you have to follow a strict itinerary. Your vehicle is ready when you are, a feature well suited for spontaneous and adventurous travelers.
Where to start?
There’s no better place to begin your culinary journey than Kochi. Located at the centre of Kerala, Kochi offers a fusion of traditional Kerala dishes with influences from Portuguese, Dutch, and Arab traders. Here are a few must-try dishes: Appam and stew is the perfect pick for breakfast. For lunch opt for Meen Pollichathu, a fish marinated in spices, wrapped in banana leaf, and grilled. Or you can go for Kuzhi Mandhi: an Arabian-influenced rice and meat dish, now a Kochi favorite. After you have had your fill you are left with two options, go north or south and each choice is equally exciting.
Towards North: From Thrissur to Palakkad
If you drive northwards from Kochi, you get to experience a whole new culinary experience. Thrissur offers you the chance to explore “naadan” snacks such as Ela Ada, and the traditional Kerala Sadya. It is a vegetarian feast comprising a multitude of curries such as avial, olan, pachadi, sambhar, and the sweet payasam served on a long Banana leaf. During festivals like Onam, hotels and temples serve authentic Kerala sadyas. Moving on to Palakkad, famous for its Brahmin cuisine, you’ll find unique vegetarian dishes like Kootu Curry and Ellu Thogayal.
Exploring the Malabar Zone: Kozhikode to Kasargode
This is the foodie zone of Kerala. This route offers you a range of cuisines from “Kozhikkodan biriyani” to Mangalorean and Konkani dishes. With self-drive cars in Kerala, you have the freedom to stop at roadside stalls selling hot pathiris (rice pancakes) and spicy curries, making every mile count. Kozhikode is a great starting point, known for its legendary Kozhikodan Halwa in a multitude of colors and flavors. The Malabar biryani, rich with ghee, tiny rice, and tender meat, is a must-try. When paired with a cup of Sulaimani tea it offers the best experience. Ari Kadukka is a unique snack made of mussels stuffed with spiced rice mixture, steamed, and then fried. As you move further north to Kannur, you can explore the seafood delights like Chemmeen Curry (prawn curry) and fried sardines, best enjoyed in small coastal shacks. Once you reach Kasargode, you’ll find influences of Mangalorean and Konkani cuisine. Try the unique Kuttanadan duck roast and traditional toddy-shop style dishes.
Through the Coastal South: Alappuzha to Thiruvananthapuram
If you choose to go southwards from Kochi, you are about to experience the calm backwaters and coastal life clubbed with the bustling streets of the capital city. This leg of your journey is perfect for experiencing authentic Keralite village life and its corresponding culinary traditions. Finding Kerala car hire for family trips that can accommodate luggage and passengers comfortably for longer journeys will be key here. Alappuzha is known for its backwater and toddy shop cuisines serving rich, spicy, aromatic, rustic dishes whose taste never leaves your mouth. Dishes like pearl spot fry, duck roast, and tapioca with fish curry, all paired with fresh toddy (palm wine) makes it to the top list of Kerala cuisines. Continuing further south, you reach Kollam, yet another coastal city. Kallumakkaya Ularthiyathu (Mussel Stir Fry) with a fiery blend of spices and coconut and fish moilee, a mild, fragrant fish curry cooked in coconut milk, often with green chilies and ginger are a few of the must haves at Kollam. As you reach Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala’s capital city, you must try out the very popular Boli and Payasam, exclusive to Trivians. The sadya here is also lip-smacking. And if you are looking for an evening snack, what’s better than Banana Fritters!
Here are a few things to keep in mind before you set out on a new journey. Make sure that you book your self-drive rental car well in advance, especially during the holidays or seasons. Opt for monsoon friendly cars if you are travelling during the rainy seasons so that your journey goes smooth. When you are travelling to remote areas ensure that your GPS is on. Carry all the necessary items like medicines, water, first aid, battery backups etc. When visiting smaller, traditional eateries, observe local customs.In crowded city centers, parking can be a challenge. Look for designated parking areas. Being adventurous is important but be safe too. Don’t shy away from trying new dishes, even if they seem unfamiliar.
A self-drive food safari across Kerala is more than just a trip; it’s an immersive cultural experience. From the bustling streets of Kochi to the serene backwaters of Alappuzha, and the spice-laden markets of Kozhikode, every mile covered and every dish savored will leave an indelible mark on your palate and your memories. So, rent your car, ignite your engine, and let the flavors of Kerala guide your way!