Excursion A glimpse of rural kerala tour at Cochin

Experience the pristine natural beauty, teeming waters and local lifestyle of rural Kerala during this memorable excursion to Kumbalanghi and Kallancherry Island.

Kumbalanghi

Depart the pier for the approximately 30-minute drive west towards Kumbalanghi, a small, six-square-mile (15.5-square-kilometre) island-village surrounded by backwaters and lush green paddy fields. An abundance of mangroves separates land from water, and provides a breeding ground for prawns, crabs, oysters and small fish. A ring of Chinese fishing nets encircling Kumbalanghi bears witness to its rich aquatic life.

Backwater Ride to Kallancherry Island

Upon arrival at the Kumbalanghi Bridge, leave your vehicle, walk across to the jetty and embark your awaiting boat. Ride through the backwaters en route to Kallancherry Island, and see fisherman plying the waters en route. After disembarking your boat at the island, you are served a refreshing welcome drink.

Kallancherry Island Walking Tour

Next, explore village life during a guided walking tour. View weavers at work on coir, watch local ladies weave coconut leaves, and see how traditional Chinese fishing nets operate through a system of weights and levers. You can also observe ladies move in a row and 'grope' for fish with their bare hands. The village is also home to a crab farm, where you can try your hand at catching a crab.

Following your visit, embark a motorised rickshaw for the ride back to your coach, then commence the approximately 30-minute ride back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Cochin, Kumbalanghi, Paddy Fields, Mangroves, Kumbalanghi Bridge, Kallancherry Island, Crab Farm

Note

Please note: This tour requires moderate amount of walking for approximately 0.7 miles (about 1.1 kilometres), at time over uneven surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and embark/disembark the boat, and six-ten steps at Kumbalanghi Village. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing, and bring insect repellent and sun protection from the ship. Space on this tour is very limited; we suggest you book in advance to avoid disappointment.