Udupi to Kannur

Today is day 12. It was a hard day. Lots of traffic all day long and rough, bumpy roads. 

We took a bit of a detour to drive over some islands just off the coast. It was very pretty. Oddly, we have begun seeing hammer and sickle insignia, as well as Che Guevara flags all over. I'm not sure exactly why, but apparently there are areas of India that have a strong Russian influence (according to the internet). 

Rickshaw taking a break on the coast:

A temple we drove by:

Sorry about the bush - picture taken while driving of one of many hammer and sickle:

We crossed lots of train track today:

Our hotel tonight is right in the middle of Kannur with a flea market and bizarre right outside. It is pretty "happening". There was some talk of trying to fine a theyyam ritual tonight. This ritual is primarily practiced in Kannur. Men from the village will wear extravagant makeup and customs and dance in front of the local temples. Unfortunately because it is Maundy Thursday there are no festivals scheduled for tonight. I know that is a confluence of different religions, but that's what goes on here. Bummer. 

Not my picture, but example of Theyyam:

We decided to push to Kochi tomorrow, 270km. We will get to our hotel in the evening and then the next day drive from our hotel to cross the finish line. I cannot believe this is almost over, it seems like it just started and also like it's been going forever! 

As usual I will check in tomorrow ❤️