If you’re looking for a perfect blend of wildlife, history, and culture in Kerala, the Thrissur Zoo and Museum is a must-visit. Nestled in Chembukkavu, just a couple of kilometres from Thrissur town, this heritage complex takes you back in time while letting you reconnect with nature.
A Peek Into the Past
Established in 1885, the Thrissur Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in India. Spread across around 13.5 acres, it is home to over 50 species of animals, birds, and reptiles. From majestic tigers and lions to deer, sloth bears, and exotic birds, this compact zoo offers a great chance to observe wildlife up close. There’s even a dedicated snake house, where you can spot cobras, kraits, vipers, pythons, and more.
More Than Just a Zoo
What makes this place special is that it’s not just a zoo. Within the same compound, you’ll find the Natural History Museum and an Art Museum. The Natural History Museum is fascinating for both kids and adults — you’ll see preserved specimens, skeletons, and taxidermy displays that bring Kerala’s biodiversity and ecological history to life. Keep an eye out for the massive skeleton of Chengalloor Ranganathan, a famous elephant that once lived here.
The Art Museum complements your visit with exhibits showcasing the region’s social and cultural heritage — from palm-leaf manuscripts and megalithic tools to beautiful murals and sculptures.
Visitor Info
📍 Location: Chembukkavu, Thrissur, Kerala
🎟️ Entry Fee: ₹20 for adults (zoo) and ₹10 for the museum
⏰ Timings: 9 AM to 5:15 PM, Tuesday to Sunday (closed on Mondays)
Why You Should Visit
The Thrissur Zoo & Museum is ideal for families, students, or anyone curious about Kerala’s wildlife and heritage. It’s a peaceful escape in the middle of the bustling city and a great way to spend 2–3 hours surrounded by nature, art, and history.
Nestled just 3 kilometers away from the famous Guruvayur Sree Krishna Temple in Thrissur district lies Punnathur Kotta, also known as Anakkotta, which literally means “Elephant Fort.” This unique destination beautifully combines Kerala’s royal history with its enduring love for elephants and temple traditions.
Once the palace of the Punnathur Raja, this 11.5-acre fort has now been transformed into an elephant sanctuary that houses temple elephants belonging to the Guruvayur Devaswom. At its peak, Punnathur Kotta cared for over 80 elephants; today, you can still find around 37 majestic elephants here, each donated by devotees as an offering to Lord Guruvayurappa.
What makes Punnathur Kotta special is that it’s not just a sanctuary but a living example of Kerala’s deep-rooted cultural heritage. Here, the elephants are trained for temple rituals and grand festivals like Thrissur Pooram. Visitors can witness daily routines such as bathing and feeding, along with unique rituals like Gajapooja (elephant worship) and Aanayoottu (elephant feeding ceremony).
The property still retains its royal charm with the original naalukettu (traditional quadrangular palace structure) and small shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva and Bhagavathy. Punnathur Kotta is also a training center for mahouts, ensuring that these gentle giants receive proper care from skilled handlers.
July is an especially interesting time to visit, as the elephants are given Ayurvedic treatments to help them stay healthy and fit for the festivals ahead. Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for a visit, as the elephants are more active and the weather is pleasant.
Visitor Information
Location: 3 km from Guruvayur Temple, Kottapadi, Thrissur, Kerala
Entry Fee: ₹20 per adult
Mobile Camera Fee: ₹30
Best Time to Visit: October to March; July for Ayurvedic treatment season
Timings: Generally open from morning till evening
A trip to Guruvayur is incomplete without witnessing the grandeur of Punnathur Kotta. Whether you’re a wildlife lover, history buff, or someone seeking a glimpse into Kerala’s spiritual side, this Elephant Fort is sure to leave you with memories that last a lifetime.
Perched majestically atop a hill in Tamil Nadu’s Salem district, Sankagiri Fort (also spelled Sangagiri Fort) stands as a powerful reminder of South India’s layered history. Known locally as Guptha Giri, this hilltop fortress is not just an architectural marvel but also a symbol of resistance and legacy.
📜 A Fort Steeped in History
Originally constructed in the 15th century by the mighty Vijayanagara Empire, Sankagiri Fort has seen the rise and fall of many powers — from the Nayaks of Madurai to the Marathas, the Mysore Sultanate under Tipu Sultan, and finally the British.
Its strategic location made it a key defensive and administrative post for centuries. During British rule, the fort served as a tax storage facility for the Kongu Nadu region, which includes Salem, Erode, Coimbatore, Tiruppur, Namakkal, Karur, and Dindigul.
One of the most poignant moments in its history was the execution of the brave freedom fighter Dheeran Chinnamalai here on August 2, 1805, making Sankagiri Fort an enduring symbol of India’s struggle against colonial rule.
🏯 Incredible Architecture & Layout
Spread across 13 square kilometers, the fort boasts an impressive 14 concentric walls built in phases — the final layers added by the British. With 12 major gateways and 70 minor entrances, it is designed for maximum defense. The main entrance, famously known as the ‘Delhi Gate’, still stands strong with its massive wooden doors reinforced with iron spikes.
Sankagiri Fort is built across four distinct levels, each showcasing unique features:
Level 1: A temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu
Level 2: A pond and an old granary
Level 3: A watchtower and cannon emplacements
Level 4: A palace and mosque from the Maratha period
Inside its sturdy granite walls, you’ll also find a death well, granaries, oil godowns, an explosives storage, masjids, Varadharaja Perumal temples, British administrative ruins, and old cemeteries for the armies that once guarded this stronghold.
🕉️ The Lesser-Known Tale of the Kongu Chettiars
Beyond its military significance, Sankagiri is linked to a remarkable local legend. During the Maratha rule in Thanjavur, the Chettiar community, known for their financial prowess, helped the kingdom resist invaders. But the Marathas later turned on them, ordering the conviction of all Chettiar men. To protect their lineage, wise elders secretly moved 500 Chettiar children to the safety of the Sangagiri region.
These Five Hundred Kongu Chettiars, devoted to Lord Shiva, built a temple in Sunnambu Kuttai (Limestone Pond). To avoid the wrath of the Marathas, they named their deity Kopineshwar, inspired by the Maratha god of Thane. Though the temple fell into ruin over centuries, its remains were rediscovered in 1982 by Viswanathan Chettiar, who identified its boundary and sanctum — preserving this mystical link to a turbulent past.
🏹 Engineering Genius & Defensive Design
Sankagiri Fort’s location was no accident. Its steep slopes make it climbable from only one side, adding a natural layer of security. The fort’s robust granite walls rise up to 18 feet, interspersed with bastions, watchtowers, and hidden escape routes. This smart use of terrain, combined with the architectural influence of Chola, Vijayanagara, and Nayak styles, makes the fort a fascinating study in ancient military engineering.
Inside the fort, visitors can still admire the Patchai Kovil, a Shiva temple echoing classic Chola carvings, and the Deviyar Kovil, dedicated to Goddess Parvati, with its ornate Nayak pillars and sculptures.
📍 Plan Your Visit
Sankagiri Fort is located about 22 km from Erode and around 38 km from Salem, making it an ideal day trip for history enthusiasts, trekkers, and heritage lovers alike. The best time to visit is from November to February when the weather is pleasant for exploring the sprawling grounds.
Whether you’re drawn by its panoramic views, timeless legends, or its role in India’s freedom struggle, Sankagiri Fort is a destination that promises stories waiting to be uncovered.
🌟 Final Thoughts
Standing on these ancient walls, you can almost hear echoes of warriors, kings, traders, and freedom fighters who once called this place home. Sankagiri Fort is more than just stone and history — it’s a testament to Tamil Nadu’s resilient spirit.
Just a short drive from the bustling city of Bengaluru, lies a historical treasure that many travelers overlook — the Devanahalli Fort. Located around 35 kilometers north of Bengaluru and just a few minutes from Kempegowda International Airport, this fort offers a perfect blend of history, architecture, and heritage.
🕰️ A Glimpse Into the Past
The story of Devanahalli dates back to the 15th century, when a group of refugees from Conjeevaram (present-day Kanchipuram) settled near Ramaswami Betta, east of the Nandi Hills. Guided by a vision in a dream, their leader Rana Baire Gowda established a settlement in this region. His son, Malla Baire Gowda, would go on to found towns like Devanahalli, Chikkaballapura, and Doddaballapura.
In 1501 AD, with permission from the Vijayanagara rulers, Malla Baire Gowda built a mud fort at Devanadoddi, the earlier name for Devanahalli. Over time, the fort changed hands — from the Wodeyars of Mysore to the Marathas, and later to Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan, who strengthened it with stone fortifications. During the Third Anglo-Mysore War in 1791, the fort was captured by Lord Cornwallis of the British forces.
🏯 Architecture and Layout
The stone fort, spread over 20 acres, is roughly oval in shape, oriented eastward. The fort walls are built using dressed masonry and feature twelve semi-circular bastions. Each bastion has gun slots made of lime and brick, a reflection of the fort’s military purpose. The east and west entrances are adorned with decorative plasterwork, and are relatively narrow, designed to accommodate horses.
A battlement walkway lines the inner side of the fort, allowing for strategic defense views.
🛕 Temples Inside the Fort
One of the most captivating aspects of Devanahalli Fort is the presence of ancient temples within its walls. These shrines reflect the architectural grace of the Vijayanagara period, and still remain active places of worship:
Venugopalaswamy Temple – A beautifully designed temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, featuring intricate carvings and a Dravidian-style gopuram.
Siddalingeshwara Temple – A shrine devoted to Lord Shiva.
Chandramouleshwara Temple – Another significant temple inside the fort premises.
These temples not only highlight the religious life within the fort but also serve as a reminder of the region’s deep cultural roots.
📍 How to Reach Devanahalli Fort
By Road: Devanahalli is well connected via NH 44 from Bengaluru.
By Air: The fort is just a few kilometers from Kempegowda International Airport.
Timings: Open all day (preferably visit in the morning or late afternoon)
Entry Fee: Free
Ideal for: History buffs, architecture lovers, photographers, and weekend explorers
✨ Final Thoughts
Devanahalli Fort may not be as grand or crowded as some of the more famous forts in India, but that’s exactly what makes it special. It’s a place where you can walk through history, away from the chaos, and connect with Karnataka’s regal past.
Looking for a quick escape from Bangalore’s hustle and bustle? Just 60 kilometers away lies Nandi Hills, a misty, historic hill station in the Chikkaballapur district of Karnataka. Rising 1,478 meters above sea level, this picturesque location offers panoramic views, ancient temples, colonial bungalows, and a peaceful vibe that makes it a favorite among nature lovers and history buffs alike.
🧭 Our Journey Begins
I visited Nandi Hills on a Friday afternoon, hoping to avoid the weekend rush. The drive itself was refreshing, with scenic roads leading to the hilltop. The entry fee was ₹20 per person, and car parking cost ₹60. With the weather slightly cloudy and cool, it was the perfect day for exploration.
🏰 Tipu Sultan’s Legacy
One of the first stops was Tipu Sultan’s Summer Lodge, also known as Tashk-e-Jannat or "Envy of Heaven." Built in the late 18th century, this historic lodge served as Tipu’s summer retreat. Nearby, the fort walls of Nandi Hills — originally built by the Ganga dynasty and later fortified by Tipu — still stand tall, echoing tales of the past.
🐂 Temples and Legends
The Nellikayi Basavanna Temple, with its large Nandi (bull) statue, is said to be the inspiration behind the name “Nandi Hills.” A short walk from here takes you to the peaceful Yoga Nandeeshwara Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. We also came across Brahmashram Cave, where the revered sage Ramakrishna Paramahamsa is believed to have meditated.
💧 River Origins: Palar and Arkavati
Nandi Hills is home to the origin points of two important rivers — the Palar River and the Arkavati River. While both springs were dry due to the summer season, it was humbling to stand at the spot where these rivers begin their journey, nourishing faraway lands and communities.
🏞️ Scenic Points & Colonial Touches
The Sunrise and Sunset Viewpoints are absolute highlights, offering spectacular views of the surrounding valleys. Whether you sit on the rocks or use the built-in seating, watching the sun paint the sky is truly mesmerizing. We also stopped by Amrutha Sarovara, a serene lake that reflects the sky and adds to the calmness of the hilltop.
Another colonial gem is the Nehru Nilaya, once the summer retreat of British Commissioner Sir Mark Cubbon. It later hosted dignitaries, including Nehru and SAARC delegates. Though I skipped Gandhi Nilaya this time, it remains a part of the hill’s layered history.
⚠️ A Chilling Drop
Our visit to Tipu’s Drop, a 600-foot cliff where prisoners were allegedly thrown off during Tipu’s reign, was both breathtaking and haunting. The views are stunning, but the history gives it an eerie aura.
🧘 Final Thoughts
Though I couldn’t cover every spot, this trip gave me a deep appreciation of how Nandi Hills blends nature, history, and spirituality so seamlessly. Whether you're into photography, trekking, heritage, or just some peaceful time away from the city, Nandi Hills has something for everyone.
📌 Tips for Visitors:
Best time to visit: October to March
Reach early if visiting on weekends to avoid crowds
Located in the heart of Bangalore, the HAL Heritage Centre and Aerospace Museum offers a fascinating journey through the evolution of Indian aviation. Established in 2001 by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), this museum holds the distinction of being India’s first aerospace museum, and it's a must-visit for aviation enthusiasts, families, and curious travelers alike.
✈️ A Walk Among Legends – Outdoor Exhibits
The outdoor area of the museum instantly grabs your attention with its impressive display of life-size aircraft that once ruled the Indian skies. From the iconic MiG-21 supersonic jet fighter to the Kiran jet trainer, and from the Marut twin-engine fighter-bomber to the Canberra bomber aircraft — each model tells a story of technological prowess and national pride. Other aircraft on display include the Ajeet, HT-2, and Lakshya, a remotely piloted target aircraft used in training missions.
Beyond the aircraft, the museum grounds are beautifully landscaped. You’ll find a Rose Garden, an Orchidarium, and a Herbal Garden, offering a tranquil space to unwind. There’s even a Children’s Play Area, making it a family-friendly destination.
🛩️ Stepping Indoors – Hall 1: Evolution of Indian Aviation
Inside the museum, Hall 1 takes you through a chronological timeline of Indian aviation, starting from the 1940s. The hall is filled with archival photographs, technical charts, and models, capturing milestones in HAL’s remarkable journey. One of the highlights here is the “Hall of Fame”, which showcases HAL’s key achievements, indigenous aircraft development, and its role in strengthening India's defense capabilities.
🎮 Flight Simulators & More
One of the crowd-pullers at the museum is the Flight Simulator Zone, where visitors can experience the thrill of flying with both basic and motion flight simulators. Although the simulators were under maintenance during my visit, they promise an interactive experience for those lucky enough to catch them in action.
There’s also a souvenir shop on-site where you can pick up aviation-themed gifts, scale models, and memorabilia — perfect for remembering your visit or gifting a fellow travel or aircraft lover.
🕒 Visitor Information
Entry Fee: ₹70 per person
Location: HAL Road, Bangalore
Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon (avoid peak sun hours)
Ideal For: Families, aviation enthusiasts, students, and history lovers
🌟 Final Thoughts
The HAL Heritage Centre and Aerospace Museum is more than just a collection of aircraft — it’s a tribute to India’s aerospace journey and the incredible achievements of HAL. Whether you're a history buff, tech geek, or simply curious about what makes planes fly, this museum offers a rich and immersive experience.
So, next time you're in Bangalore, make sure to add this unique destination to your itinerary. It’s not just educational — it’s inspiring.
Located in the heart of South Bengaluru, Lalbagh Botanical Garden is one of the most iconic green spaces in India. Sprawling over 240 acres, this beautifully maintained garden is not just a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle, but also a treasure trove of history, botany, and architecture. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a photographer, or a curious traveler, Lalbagh has something to offer everyone.
🌸 A Glimpse into History
Lalbagh was originally commissioned in 1760 by Hyder Ali, the ruler of Mysore, and was later expanded by his son Tipu Sultan. The garden was inspired by the Mughal-style gardens of Sira and was designed to house exotic and native plant species. During British rule, Lalbagh underwent further development, and in 1889, the stunning Glass House was constructed — modeled after the Crystal Palace in London.
Today, the garden is managed by the Department of Horticulture, Government of Karnataka, and remains a key landmark that showcases the city’s rich cultural and natural heritage.
🌳 Highlights of Lalbagh Botanical Garden
🏛️ The Glass House
The centerpiece of Lalbagh, the Glass House hosts the famous biannual flower shows on Republic Day and Independence Day. These vibrant events attract thousands of visitors and showcase stunning floral arrangements.
🪨 Lalbagh Rock
One of the oldest rock formations on earth, the Lalbagh Rock is over 3,000 million years old and is classified as a National Geological Monument. Climb to the top and enjoy panoramic views of Bengaluru city.
🌲 Kempegowda Watchtower
Perched on the Lalbagh Rock, this historic watchtower is one of the four towers built by Kempegowda II, the founder of Bengaluru, to demarcate the city’s original boundaries.
🌼 Specialty Gardens
Lalbagh features several themed gardens that offer a delightful experience:
Bonsai Garden
Topiary Garden
Rose Garden
Lotus Garden
Each one is carefully curated with plant varieties and displays that are both educational and visually appealing.
🌺 Other Attractions
Floral Clock
Tree Fossil
Chamaraja Wodeyar Statue
Tree Sculpture Zone
Japanese Decorative Monument
Silk Cotton Tree
Maharaja Statue
🦆 Lalbagh Lake & Waterfall
A serene lake surrounded by lush greenery attracts several bird species, making it a great spot for bird watching and peaceful walks. There's also a small artificial waterfall nearby, perfect for photography.
💡 Visitor Information
Entry Fee: ₹50 per adult
Buggy Ride (Optional): ₹100 per person
Car Parking Fee: ₹60
Timings: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or during the flower shows (January & August)
📸 Travel Tips
Visit early in the morning for the best light and fewer crowds.
Carry water, especially if you're planning to walk through the entire garden.
Don’t miss the view from the top of Lalbagh Rock — it’s one of the best photo spots in the garden!
Allocate at least 2-3 hours to explore comfortably.
🌍 Final Thoughts
Lalbagh Botanical Garden is more than just a public park — it’s a living museum of plants, a piece of Bengaluru’s history, and a quiet retreat for nature lovers. Whether you're a local resident or a first-time visitor to the city, a stroll through Lalbagh is a refreshing and rewarding experience.
Just a short drive from the bustling heart of Kochi, nestled in the quiet town of Tripunithura, lies one of Kerala’s most majestic heritage sites — the Hill Palace Museum. Once the royal residence of the Maharaja of Kochi, this expansive complex now stands as the largest archaeological museum in Kerala, offering visitors a chance to step back in time and explore the grandeur of a bygone era.
🏛️ A Palace Steeped in History
Built in 1865, the Hill Palace served as the administrative headquarters and royal residence of the Cochin royal family. After Indian independence, the complex was handed over to the Kerala State Department of Archaeology in 1980 and was officially opened to the public as a museum in 1986.
Today, the complex spans 54 acres, featuring 49 buildings in classic Kerala style architecture, surrounded by lush gardens, ponds, and tree-lined avenues. It’s not just a museum — it’s a beautifully preserved royal campus.
🎨 Inside the Museum
The Hill Palace Museum is divided into several fascinating galleries:
Archaeological Gallery – Displays artifacts from the Indus Valley Civilization, Megalithic tools, pottery, ancient inscriptions, and more.
Royal Gallery – The centerpiece of the museum, this gallery showcases the royal crown, ornaments, weapons, ceremonial robes, and rare ivory furniture used by the Kochi royals.
Ethno-Archaeological Gallery – Exhibits tools and household items from rural Kerala, offering insights into traditional village life.
Painting and Mural Gallery – Features portraits of the Cochin kings and religious artwork, including mythological murals.
🔒 Photography Tip: Photography is allowed inside the museum except in marked no-photo zones like the Royal Gallery. Videography is permitted only outdoors.
🌿 More Than Just a Museum
The palace grounds are serene and eco-rich. There’s a deer park, a medicinal plant garden, and scenic walking trails that make it a favorite spot for families, nature lovers, and those simply looking to unwind in a historical setting.
🎬 A Touch of Cinema
Fans of Malayalam cinema will recognize Hill Palace as the iconic mansion from the film “Manichitrathazhu”, one of the most celebrated movies in Kerala’s film history. This connection adds a cinematic layer to the already fascinating visit.
ℹ️ Visitor Information
📍 Location: Tripunithura, Kochi, Kerala
🕒 Timings: 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM (Closed on Mondays)
🎟️ Entry Fee: ₹50 for adults, ₹10 for mobile camera, ₹30 for car parking
📸 Photography: Allowed (restrictions apply inside certain galleries)
🧭 How to Reach
By Road: Easily accessible by car or auto from Kochi city (approx. 10 km from Ernakulam Junction).
By Train: Nearest station is Tripunithura Railway Station, just 1.5 km away.
By Bus: Regular buses from Ernakulam to Tripunithura are available.
📝 Final Thoughts
If you're looking to explore Kerala's royal heritage, soak in traditional architecture, and enjoy a peaceful day surrounded by history and nature, Hill Palace is a perfect choice. Whether you’re a history buff, a casual tourist, or a local explorer, this spot offers a glimpse into a regal past that still echoes through its halls.
Fort Kochi is a place where history whispers through every corner, and cultures merge beautifully. On my recent visit, I spent a day exploring Jew Town, one of the most vibrant and historic parts of Fort Kochi. Here’s how my day unfolded—filled with heritage, art, food, and even a scenic boat ride!
Jew Town: A Street Steeped in Stories
Nestled between Mattancherry Palace and the Paradesi Synagogue, Jew Town is a charming stretch filled with antique shops, spice markets, and colonial architecture. As I walked through its lanes, the mix of cultures—Portuguese, Dutch, Jewish, and Indian—was visible in every storefront and wall mural.
Mattancherry Palace: A Peek into Royal Kerala
Also known as the Dutch Palace, this 16th-century structure was originally built by the Portuguese and later renovated by the Dutch. Inside, the palace features exquisite murals depicting stories from the Ramayana, portraits of the Kochi Rajas, and royal artifacts. It’s a great starting point for anyone interested in the historical roots of the region.
Paradesi Synagogue: India’s Oldest Active Synagogue
At the very end of Jew Town lies the iconic Paradesi Synagogue, built in 1568. Still active today, it stands as the oldest functioning synagogue in the Commonwealth. The interiors are breathtaking, with hand-painted Chinese tiles, a Belgian glass chandelier, and ancient Torah scrolls. A painting hall near the entrance showcases the bond between the Jewish community and the Kochi maharajas.
Mocha Art Café: Where Food Meets Creativity
After exploring the Synagogue, I headed back through Jew Town and stumbled upon Mocha Art Café. Known for its cozy, artistic ambiance and tasty food, it’s a perfect spot to unwind. I enjoyed a delightful lunch surrounded by art-covered walls and travelers from all over the world. If you’re visiting, this café is a must-try!
Kochi Water Metro: A New Way to Explore the Backwaters
Around 3:30 PM, I wrapped up my Jew Town walk and took an auto to the Fort Kochi Water Metro Terminal. I bought a ticket to the High Court Terminal, which cost just ₹40. The 20-minute ride was peaceful and scenic, offering beautiful views of the Chinese Fishing Nets—an iconic image of Fort Kochi.
Wrapping Up the Day
As the sun started to set, I realized how much I had seen and felt in just one day. Fort Kochi is more than a destination—it’s an experience of layered history, vibrant culture, and modern charm.
If you’re planning a trip to Kochi, make sure Jew Town, Mattancherry Palace, the Paradesi Synagogue, a café stop, and the Water Metro are on your list. Trust me—it’s a journey worth taking.
If you're visiting Kochi and want to experience something truly unique, hop on board the Kochi Water Metro — India's first water-based public transport system! In this blog, I’ll take you along for a round trip from Fort Kochi to the High Court terminal, cruising through the calm waters of Vembanad Lake.
🛥 Starting the Journey from Fort Kochi
Our journey begins at the Fort Kochi Water Metro terminal. This isn’t just a scenic ride — it’s a glimpse into Kochi’s future of sustainable travel. After purchasing our tickets (₹40 per person one way), we walked a short distance to the boarding area. The boat was already docked and waiting.
These boats are fully electric, air-conditioned, and designed for comfort. Though the boat was packed and I didn’t get a seat initially, the ride was still smooth and relaxing thanks to the cool interior.
🌊 Cruising Through Vembanad Lake
As we moved through the waters, the beauty of Vembanad Lake unfolded around us. We passed by several Chinese fishing nets, locally known as Cheena Vala, and saw various vessels along the way — fishing boats, jankars, passenger boats, and even large ships heading toward the Vallarpadam Container Terminal.
One of the highlights was passing under the Goshree Bridges, which connect Kochi’s islands to the mainland. These bridges have made daily commuting easier for thousands of locals.
🏢 Arrival at High Court Terminal
Soon, we reached the High Court Water Metro Terminal, which is also a charging hub for the boats. This terminal is busier than Fort Kochi, offering connections to multiple locations across Kochi.
After stepping out, we bought return tickets (again ₹40) for our ride back. The area was crowded in the evening, and we had to wait for about 30 minutes to catch the third boat. This time, I managed to find a seat and enjoy the journey more comfortably.
🌅 Sunset Views and Scenic Ride Back
As the sun began to set, the views became even more magical. The orange hues reflected on the water, and we saw more catamaran-style boats, just like the one we were on. These boats can carry up to 100 passengers, which explains the wait time during rush hours — but with ample seating at the terminal, it wasn't a problem.
By the way, I had recently done a houseboat cruise in Kumarakom, also set on Vembanad Lake. If you're interested in a slower, traditional experience of Kerala's backwaters, check that out (link in description/cards).
📍 Returning to Fort Kochi
As we neared Fort Kochi, the familiar sights returned — the Chinese fishing nets, the calm waters, and the peaceful harbor setting. In the distance, we even spotted a Jankar, another common ferry used in Kerala (although not from this terminal).
✅ Final Thoughts
The Kochi Water Metro is more than just a ride — it’s a glimpse into the future of eco-friendly urban transport. Whether you're a tourist or a local, it's worth experiencing at least once. With scenic views, smooth operations, and an affordable fare, it’s an enjoyable way to see Kochi from a different perspective.
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🔖 Quick Info:
🗓 Inaugurated: April 25, 2023
🛥 Current Active Routes: 4
🚉 Operational Stations: 9 (out of planned 38)
🎯 Final Project Target: 15 routes, 78 ferries, 78 km coverage
