‘Kuttanad Safari’ from Mar 1; Pathiramanal key attraction

Kochi: Come March 1, state water transport department (SWTD) is all set to commence the day-long tourist trips as part of the unique ‘Kuttanad Safari' package, a chief attraction of which is facilitating the tourists enjoy rare traditional artforms on the picturesque ‘Pathiramanal Island', famous for sighting of rare migratory birds."We'll start the tourist service with a 30-passenger boat on March 1, but will deploy the 100-passenger capacity air-conditioned vessel ‘Indra' by the middle of next month for Kuttanad Safari. This is the first-of-its-kind tour package, where visitors can experience the heart of Kuttanad, including rare artforms and local cuisines," SWTD director Shaji V Nair told TOI.Indra, India's largest solar-electric boat, is currently operating in Ernakulam and the vessel will be redeployed to Alappuzha. A new solar ferry will be launched at Ernakulam, replacing Indra, to conduct backwater tours, the official said.Kuttanad Safari, modelled on the desert safaris of Arab nations, is a day-long journey through the interior Kuttanad. Starting at 10am from the Alappuzha Boat Jetty, the day begins with the flavours of the land — a thaninadan (hyper local) breakfast served at local stalls. As the boat glides through the labyrinthine canals, passengers are not just spectators. They are invited to participate in the local way of life, from the rhythmic weaving of coconut palms to the intricate craft of coir spinning.The itinerary strategically highlights the engineering marvels of the region, such as the R-Block and C-Block areas, where farming happens below sea level. A stop at a traditional toddy shop for lunch offers tourists a taste of the fiery, spice-rich cuisine that defines the region's culinary identity.Pathiramanal: The cultural hubThe highlight of the safari is the stopover on the scenic Pathiramanal Island."The visitors will be treated to rare traditional artforms like Villadichan Pattu — an ancient form of musical storytelling method where narration is interspersed with music — Yakshaganam and the like. We have entered into an agreement with a folk repertory agency, IPTA, for this. The project is also a collaborative effort with the Muhamma grama panchayat with whom we will share the revenue," Nair said.Travellers will be treated to live performances of Kalaripayattu, the mother of all martial arts, and the ritualistic Garudan Parava. Throughout the journey, guides will narrate the history of Alappuzha's unique heritage, explaining the significance of local artforms like Velakali and Kuthiyottam.To facilitate the performances, a stunning eco-friendly amphitheatre crafted from bamboo and grass is set up there. "This eco-friendly model can be replicated elsewhere in the state. Besides boosting tourism, it will also serve as a source of income for the artists," the official said.As the sun begins to set over the Vembanad Lake, the return journey offers a glimpse into the local lime shell industry. Perhaps the most charming aspect of the safari is the opportunity to shop from ‘floating stores' — small boats selling local handicrafts and produce.Priced at Rs 1,000 per ticket, Kuttanad Safari is positioned as an accessible yet premium experience. It bridges the gap between luxury cruising and grassroots cultural tourism, ensuring that while tourists take home memories, the local community gains a sustainable livelihood.