“Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all.”
“My father taught me to work, but not to love it. I never did like to work, and I don't deny it. I'd rather read, tell stories, crack jokes, talk, laugh and an interventionist -- anything but work.”
Sathar Al Karan's Travel Series: A Journey Through Kerala’s Natural Wonders
As I set off on my favorite route—Chalakudy to Athirappilly, Vazhachal, Malakkappara, Pollachi, Anamalai, Topslip, and Parambikulam—I’m reminded of the unspoiled beauty of Kerala, a place that has always been close to my heart. This journey is more than just a trip; it's a celebration of nature, culture, and the very essence of sustainable living.
The road stretches before me like a vibrant green ribbon, winding through Kerala's pristine forests and cascading waterfalls. Starting in Chalakudy, where the river meanders through the dense forests, I can already sense the powerful connection between water and land, which shapes this beautiful landscape. Athirappilly, often referred to as the "Niagara of India," greets me with its mighty falls. The roar of water crashing against the rocks below creates a symphony that resonates with the soul—a reminder of nature's raw power and beauty.
As I continue my journey to Vazhachal and Malakkappara, the air grows cooler, and the dense forests of the Western Ghats wrap around me. These hills, teeming with biodiversity, offer the kind of peace only nature can provide. Malakkappara, with its serene hills, is a place where I often pause to reflect on the importance of conservation. My work with the Forestification initiative is deeply connected to these very places, where forests and human communities live in harmony.
Pollachi and Anamalai come next—transitioning from the misty hills of Kerala to the sprawling plains of Tamil Nadu. Anamalai, with its sprawling tea estates and wildlife sanctuaries, offers a stark contrast to the dense forests I’ve left behind, yet the beauty is just as profound. The journey brings me to Topslip, a place I often visit to reconnect with the wilderness and remind myself of the importance of protecting these precious ecosystems.
Finally, as I reach Parambikulam, where the forest meets the horizon, I am once again humbled by the sheer majesty of this landscape. The Parambikulam Tiger Reserve is a testament to the power of conservation. Here, the wild tigers roam free, and every step taken through the forest feels like walking through a sacred sanctuary.
Through this travel series, I want to share with the world the magic of Kerala’s untouched beauty. From the powerful waterfalls to the serene hills, from the dense forests to the vibrant wildlife, each location tells a story of nature’s resilience. I hope my journey through these breathtaking landscapes will inspire others to appreciate the importance of sustainable living and environmental conservation.
These places are not just destinations for me—they are the very fabric of my projects, from Forest Bath Club to Kerala Earth, and the homes of sustainable initiatives like Vazhchal and Malakkappara. This journey isn’t just a personal one; it is a call to action to preserve our planet’s natural wonders for generations to come.
Join me as I explore these extraordinary locations, celebrating the life, art, and architecture that nature has gifted us. Together, we can learn to cherish and protect the environment we all share.
ATHIRAPPILLI WATER FALLS
The road stretches before me like a vibrant green ribbon, winding through Kerala's pristine forests and cascading waterfalls. Starting in Chalakudy, where the river meanders through the dense forests, I can already sense the powerful connection between water and land, which shapes this beautiful landscape. Athirappilly, often referred to as the "Niagara of India," greets me with its mighty falls. The roar of water crashing against the rocks below creates a symphony that resonates with the soul—a reminder of nature's raw power and beauty.
ATHIRAPPILLI AFTER FLOOD 2018
The 145 kilometres (90 mi) long Chalakudy River, originates in the Anamudi mountains of the Western Ghats and flows through the Vazhachal Forest toward the Arabian Sea. The river initially runs smoothly but becomes more turbulent as it nears Athirapilly. At Athirappilly Falls, the water surges around big rocks and cascades down in three separate plumes.
Sathar Al Karan is an interventionist, a traveller and an Adventurer
GENTLE GIANT
KANNIMARA TEAK
KANNIMARA TEAK
KANNIMARA TEAK
Kannimara Teak. The world largest teak is the Kannimara Teak Tree. It's calculated age is almost 500 years ago and it didn't stop growing until it was nearly 40 meters tall. Then the route to this teak tree is muddy paths and metal in some stretches.Sathar Al Karan is an interventionist, a traveller and an Adventurer
PARAMBIKULAM
KANNIMARA TEAK
KANNIMARA TEAK
Pollachi and Anamalai come next—transitioning from the misty hills of Kerala to the sprawling plains of Tamil Nadu. Anamalai, with its sprawling tea estates and wildlife sanctuaries, offers a stark contrast to the dense forests I’ve left behind, yet the beauty is just as profound. The journey brings me to Topslip, a place I often visit to
Pollachi and Anamalai come next—transitioning from the misty hills of Kerala to the sprawling plains of Tamil Nadu. Anamalai, with its sprawling tea estates and wildlife sanctuaries, offers a stark contrast to the dense forests I’ve left behind, yet the beauty is just as profound. The journey brings me to Topslip, a place I often visit to reconnect with the wilderness and remind myself of the importance of protecting these precious ecosystems.
TOPSLIP
KANNIMARA TEAK
TOPSLIP
Finally, as I reach Parambikulam, where the forest meets the horizon, I am once again humbled by the sheer majesty of this landscape. The Parambikulam Tiger Reserve is a testament to the power of conservation. Here, the wild tigers roam free, and every step taken through the forest feels like walking through a sacred sanctuary.
CHALAKUDY MALAKKAPPARA VALPARAI ROAD
AFTER TEN YEARS I AM VISITING INDIA. CHALAKUDY - MALAKKAPPARA - VALPARAI - POLLACHI STATE HIGHWAY WITH 1988 MODEL AMBASSADOR CAR
'World Travel Series'"
"Sathar Al Karan Embarks on a Global Journey to Explore Art, Architecture, and Sustainability in 'World Travel Series'"
Sathar Al Karan's World Travel Series: A Journey Through Art, Architecture, and Sustainability
Sathar Al Karan, a visionary in art, architecture, and sustainability, is set to embark on a transformative journey with his World Travel Series. This series will take audiences around the globe, showcasing unique cultural landmarks, innovative architectural wonders, and sustainable practices from diverse regions. As a special guest at the prestigious Heritage Kandalama Resort in Sri Lanka, Sathar's participation in an art and architecture project further underscores his commitment to merging environmental stewardship with artistic excellence.
The World Travel Series will explore the intersection of tradition and innovation, as Sathar Al Karan uncovers how different cultures and landscapes influence the art, architecture, and sustainability initiatives that shape the world today. The series will feature iconic destinations, each selected for its historical significance, architectural beauty, and forward-thinking sustainability efforts. Through his lens, Sathar will bring attention to the global importance of integrating nature with modernity, a theme that resonates deeply with his ongoing initiatives, such as the Forestification project.
The Heritage Kandalama Resort is the perfect setting to begin this journey. Renowned for its seamless integration with the natural environment, the resort is a prime example of architecture that respects and enhances its surroundings. Sathar’s involvement as a special guest at this project highlights his belief in the power of design to inspire sustainability and cultivate a deeper connection between people and nature. His role in this initiative reflects his broader mission to promote sustainable development through art and architecture, while emphasizing the importance of preserving our natural heritage for future generations.
Each episode of the World Travel Series will not only dive into the aesthetic and architectural aspects of these places but will also showcase how these sites contribute to sustainable development goals, community engagement, and environmental protection. Sathar Al Karan will bring his unique perspective on how global cities and rural landscapes alike can be transformed through thoughtful design and a commitment to environmental consciousness.
Whether exploring ancient temples in India, modern eco-resorts in the UAE, or natural wonders in Sri Lanka, the World Travel Series will offer a glimpse into the future of travel and architecture—one that balances progress with preservation, innovation with respect for the environment.
This series will be an inspirational guide for future generations of architects, artists, and environmentalists, advocating for a sustainable world where art and architecture serve not only the present but also the future. Sathar Al Karan’s legacy as a thought leader and pioneer in sustainability, architecture, and art will undoubtedly shape the way we think about the places we visit and the impact we leave behind.
Heritance Kandalama . srilanka
HERITANCE KANDALAMA RESORT SITUATED INSIDE KANDALAMA FOREST, WORLDS NO 1 ARCHITECT BY SALIM BAVA
A tranquil retreat perched on hills, Heritance Kandalama offers panoramic views of the Sigiriya Rocks. Boasting a spectacular architecture, this unique design hotel provides 3 impressive pools and exotic activities like bird watching.
Kandalama Heritance is a 20-minute drive from UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the 2,000-year-old cave temple at Dambulla and the Sigiriya rock fortress. The 5-star hotel is a 3.5-hour drive from the airport.
PUGLIA . ITALY
Next, I am heading to the stunning Puglia region of Italy—
Next, I am heading to the stunning Puglia region of Italy—specifically Barletta, Bari, and Trani—where I’ll be immersing myself in an art residency. The vibrant culture, rich history, and architectural wonders of this region have always fascinated me, and this residency presents an exciting opportunity to explore these elements in depth.
Barletta, with its medieval fortresses and historic landmarks, offers a glimpse into Italy’s past, while Bari, the bustling capital of the region, showcases the perfect blend of tradition and modernity. Bari’s old town, with its narrow alleys and ancient churches, is a treasure trove for artists and history lovers alike. Trani, with its beautiful harbor and Romanesque cathedral, will be an inspiring backdrop for my artistic endeavors during the residency.
This journey is not only about exploring the art and architecture of these cities but also about reflecting on the deep connections between culture, history, and sustainability. Puglia, known for its olive groves, vineyards, and traditional agricultural practices, is a perfect setting to delve into sustainable living and ecological design, themes that resonate deeply with my ongoing projects.
I look forward to sharing my experiences from this art residency, where the landscapes, art, and architecture of Puglia will inspire new perspectives and creative expressions. This trip is yet another chapter in my travel series, one that will highlight the beauty of integrating art with nature, and the importance of preserving cultural heritage while embracing modern innovation.
Wine yards. Bartletta . Italy
Harvest in Italy
SPARTA
My recent journey took me to Athens
My recent journey took me to Athens, where I marveled at the rich history and vibrant culture of this iconic city before embarking on a road trip to Sparta. The drive was scenic and full of anticipation, as my mission was to plant trees for the Forestification initiative. In Sparta, I had the privilege of contributing to the preservation and expansion of local forests, helping to maintain the natural beauty of this historic region.
During my visit, I also explored the Olive Museum, which offered an incredible insight into the ancient history and significance of olive cultivation in Greece. The museum was a fascinating journey through time, showcasing how olives have been central to Greek life for thousands of years—an experience that deeply resonated with my sustainability projects, as olives are a symbol of resilience and longevity.
Following that, I made my way to the legendary location of the Spartan War. Standing on the very ground where ancient warriors once fought was an awe-inspiring experience, reminding me of the incredible sacrifices made in the pursuit of freedom and legacy. This journey through history, culture, and nature perfectly aligned with my passion for blending art, heritage, and sustainability.
This experience in Greece was not just about planting trees but about connecting with the past, honoring the environment, and fostering a future where we continue to preserve and respect both nature and history.
SPARTA . GREECE
greece
VIRAJPET - KANNUR ROAD
The town of Virajpet also spelled as Virajapete is the second town of the district of Kodagu, in Karnataka. It is the main town of the Virajpet taluka, south of the district, in the Kerala-Karnataka border. The name is an abbreviation of Virarajendrapete after the former ruler of Kodagu, Virarajendra.
ARMY CAMP IN SRI LANKA
AGAR WOOD PLANTATIONS . SRI LANKA
On my recent journey, I traveled to the iconic Sigiriya, known for its ancient rock fortress, a place rich in history and natural beauty. The surrounding Awarwood plantations offered a peaceful retreat, and I stayed near a serene lake, immersing myself in the tranquility of the landscape.
During this trip, I made a visit to Rathnapura, known as the "City of Gems," where I had the opportunity to collect unique stones that embody the essence of the region. These stones, rich in history and significance, represent a deep connection to the earth and the natural world.
As part of my commitment to sustainability through the Forestification initiative, I also planted trees in the region, contributing to the preservation and growth of local forests. This experience was a beautiful blend of nature, culture, and conservation—reminding me of the importance of working with the earth to ensure its future vitality.
Ceylon
HERITAGE CITY . ITALY
NINITAL
My recent travels took me to the serene hill station of Nainital,
where I soaked in the cool, crisp air and the picturesque views of the Naini Lake. It was the perfect escape into nature, providing both peace and inspiration.
I then made my way to Moradabad, also known as the Brass City. Famous for its intricate brassware and metal craftsmanship, Moradabad offered a unique insight into India’s rich tradition of artisanship. I had the opportunity to see the skilled craftsmanship up close, where every piece of brass art tells a story of centuries-old techniques passed down through generations.
Next, I visited Ramnagar, a town located on the edge of the Corbett National Park. This area is known for its dense forests and wildlife, including the Bengal tiger, and is part of the larger project for conservation and protection under the Forestification initiative. My connection with this region felt personal, as it ties into my ongoing efforts to preserve natural habitats.
Lastly, I visited the Corbett Museum, which offers a glimpse into the life of Jim Corbett, the legendary hunter-turned-conservationist. The museum, located in his former residence, is a tribute to his legacy of wildlife protection and conservation in India.
This journey, from the hills of Nainital to the wilds of Corbett, was both an enriching and thought-provoking experience, reminding me of the importance of balancing natural beauty, culture, and sustainability.
