Still postponing your road trip? Kerala woman, with her kid and 76-year-old mother, is on a 4,000 km caravan journey

While most of us are still planning the perfect road trip, a spirited woman from Kerala is already halfway across the country, steering a fully equipped caravan with her family of seven, including a toddler and her 76-year-old mother. Their Instagram-documented journey is not only inspiring thousands but also redefining what family travel looks like in India.

Jelaja and her husband Ratheesh, a couple from Ettumanoor in Kerala’s Kottayam district, are seasoned truck drivers who’ve swapped cargo for comfort. Their latest adventure? A bold and beautiful 4,000 km journey from Kerala to Ladakh, all inside their home-on-wheels.

Their Instagram page, Puthettu Travel Vlog, has quickly become a sensation. Followers are hooked on their heartwarming updates, scenic detours, and the incredible coordination it takes to pull off a road trip with three generations under one roof. From scenic highways to quirky pit stops, their feed offers a delightful glimpse into a truly one-of-a-kind travel diary.

The caravan is no ordinary vehicle. Designed for long-haul comfort, it features bunk beds, a neatly arranged kitchen, smart storage for clothes, and even a compact fridge. It’s cosy, functional, and most importantly, kid (and grandparent) friendly. In fact, some followers are now more curious about the caravan’s interiors and cost than the destination itself.

Spanning 18 states, this journey is not just about kilometres. It’s about bonding, exploration, and proving that with the right mindset, age, money, or excuses needn’t come in the way of adventure. As thousands tune in to watch their progress, Jelaja and her family are not just crossing borders, they’re crossing boundaries of what Indian family travel can look like.

Netizens react

Social media users were quick to express their admiration and curiosity about the journey. Many praised the family for embracing such a unique and joyful lifestyle, calling it heartwarming to see such a large family traveling together. Some users, however, expressed concern about their travel plans to Kashmir given the current situation, urging them to stay safe. Others appreciated the concept of bringing their home along for the ride, noting how the caravan allows them to explore without ever having to leave the comfort of home.

The family's ambitious journey spans 18 states, with key destinations including Uttarakhand, Kashmir, and Ladakh. The entire trip is expected to last around 30 to 40 days.