Kerala's tea-stall couple use humble earnings to explore world; visit 10 countries

Kerala couple Gangadharan (72) and Premalatha (65), who have been running a humble tea stall in the quaint countryside of Dhoni in Palakkad for over four and a half decades, are self-confessed travel lovers. They spend a large share of their income on tickets to various destinations to explore the world. It’s been 17 years since the couple started travelling using their meagre earnings from the tea stall. Their regular customers would understand that Gangadharan and Premalatha are travelling if they see the ‘closed’ board hanging in front of the hotel. The couple has already travelled to more than ten destinations, including a few foreign countries. 

Their first trip to Nepal in 2009 was more like an experiment as they wanted to experience and understand the various factors involved in travelling. Gangadharan and Premalatha had gone for their maiden trip with enough savings and a planned itinerary. This trip gave them the confidence to make travelling an important part of their life. The couple then visited countries such as Bhutan, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Malaysia, and Singapore, as well as India's Kullu and Manali. 

They now serve only tea and snacks at their hotel, which once had an elaborate breakfast and lunch menu. Although they have modified their menu, Gangadharan and Premalatha’s love for travelling remains the same. They manage to set aside some money for travel even if their earnings are meagre. The couple proudly says that they rarely borrow money from their children to fund their trips. Meanwhile, their children are extremely supportive and encourage them to explore more countries. 

Gangadharan and Premalatha, who had tied the knot in 1976, barely stepped out of their native place before marriage. The couple discovered their love for travelling only after fulfilling their familial duties. Gangadharan and Premalatha say that each place offers a unique, unforgettable experience. The rare and unique sights, new cultures and cuisines, and immense happiness that each place offers are what inspire the couple to pack their bags and set out to explore the world. Moreover, these trips are a well-deserved break from their daily routine, which supports their mental well-being. Gangadharan and Premalatha say that they wish to visit Thailand next. No matter where the destination is, they are determined to see the world hand in hand.

Another couple who paved the way
In 2021, Ernakulam-based tea seller Vijayan passed away at the age of 71 due to cardiac arrest. Until his death, he travelled all over the world with his wife Mohana whenever they had enough money for a trip. The couple had visited around 25 countries, across 6 continents. Their last trip was to Russia.