Latest news with #KuttanadSafari
New Indian Express
20 hours ago
- Business
- New Indian Express
Boat services fly flag for SWTD's backwater tourism endeavour
ALAPPUZHA: The state water transport department's 'Vega' and 'See Kuttanad' tourist boat services have been crafting a success story, delighting both domestic and international travellers with affordable, scenic cruises along Alappuzha's backwaters. Launched to offer a budget-friendly yet unforgettable visual treat of rural Kerala, the vessels have rapidly become favourites of tourists. They wind through the famed Punnamada backwaters, the tranquil expanses of Vembanad Lake, and the lush paddy fields of Kuttanad, all while serving authentic Alappuzha delicacies like karimeen, kappa, and kakka erachi on board. In 55 months of its operations, Vega has carried nearly 1.15 lakh tourists and helped SWTD to a revenue of Rs 5 crore, while the double-decker See Kuttanad has earned Rs 1.55 crore and handled 40,000 tourists in 24 months — in a major boost to the tourism sector in Alappuzha. The 120-seater Vega, the star cruiser of the SWTD, was commissioned on December 24, 2020. Built at a cost of Rs 2.10 crore, the vessel achieved its projected seven-year cost recovery period in under four years, a milestone that highlights both its popularity and operational success. 'The response has been phenomenal. We've crossed break-even well ahead of schedule, which proves that quality services at affordable rates will always have takers,' said SWTD director Shaji V Nair. Following Vega's success, the 90-seater See Kuttanad service was introduced on November 1, 2022. Within just two years, it has edged closer to recovering its Rs 1.90 crore production cost. 'The growing interest in our services has encouraged us to plan more tourist-centric initiatives. One of the upcoming projects, Kuttanad Safari, the brainchild of Transport Minister K B Ganesh Kumar, is progressing rapidly and is expected to set a new benchmark,' Shaji added. Both Vega and See Kuttanad sail daily from the Alappuzha boat jetty at 11am and 11:30am, respectively. The voyage includes stops at the picturesque Pathiramanal Island, and views of the SAI rowing facility, Chithira-Marthandam Kayal, Kamalante Moola, and Mangalassery before returning by late afternoon. Tourists are treated to light refreshments and a sumptuous traditional Kerala lunch arranged by Kudumbashree. At a time when houseboats are offering relatively pricey day cruises, the department's low-budget rides are proving a hit with travellers.
The Hindu
09-07-2025
- The Hindu
Kerala Water Transport department to launch Kuttanad Safari boat tour in Alappuzha
The State Water Transport Department (SWTD) in Kerala is set to launch Kuttanad Safari, a tourism boat service that will connect various destinations across the region. As part of implementing the project, Transport Minister K.B. Ganesh Kumar visited Pathiramanal island in Muhamma grama panchayat on Tuesday. Mr. Kumar said Kuttanad Safari would be modelled after the popular desert safaris in Gulf countries. 'The project will be implemented in such a way that tourists can experience the entire scenic beauty of Kuttanad in a single boat journey, much like a desert safari,' he said. The journey will begin from Alappuzha boat jetty at 11 a.m., with the first stop at the Nehru Trophy finishing point. From there, the cruise will continue through the Azhikkal canal, where tourists will be served a traditional breakfast featuring local flavours. Visitors will have the opportunity to observe and try their hand at traditional coir making, palm frond weaving and mat weaving. Handcrafted items such as palm-frond hats, winnowing baskets, and mats will be available for purchase. An artist will be onboard to sketch portraits of tourists and offer them as keepsakes. The safari will then take visitors past real chundan vallams (snakeboats) and offer close-up views of the stunning Kuttanadan landscape, including insights into the formation of the C Block and R Block regions. Upon reaching R Block, a traditional Kuttanadan lunch will be served, featuring a blend of backwater delicacies and toddy shop specialities, including locally brewed toddy. During the trip, cultural performances such as panchavadyam, shinkari melam, velakali, and kuthiyottam will be staged onboard. By evening, the boat will reach Pathiramanal island, where traditional art forms will be staged at an eco-friendly amphitheatre made of sustainable materials. On the return journey to Alappuzha, tourists can watch clam harvesting and processing in the backwaters. They will also have the opportunity to shop for Alappuzha's signature products at floating stores. The safari will conclude at Alappuzha boat jetty at 5 p.m. 'Kuttanad is a rich cultural hub, home to various art forms and folk traditions. The package will allow tourists to experience them up close. Efforts are underway to make the project a reality before the upcoming session of the Legislative Assembly,' Mr. Ganesh said, adding that discussions have already been held with Indian Oil Corporation regarding sponsorship of the amphitheatre. The package will be linked with Kerala State Road Transport Corportaion's budget tourism scheme.
New Indian Express
09-07-2025
- New Indian Express
KSRTC budget tourism cell to roll out Kuttanad Safari initiative soon
ALAPPUZHA: he state government is all set to launch the 'Kuttanad Safari', a unique backwater experience inspired by the desert safaris of the Gulf, as part of the water transport department's budget tourism initiative. Ahead of the launch, Transport Minister K B Ganesh Kumar visited Pathiramanal Island in Muhamma grama panchayat to inspect the preparations. The safari aims to present the entire scenic charm of Kuttanad in a single boat journey, offering tourists a cultural and immersive experience unlike any other. The minister said the initiative will blend the natural beauty, traditional art forms, and local cuisine of the region, providing a rich and authentic glimpse into the heart of Kerala. The entire safari package will be linked with KSRTC's budget tourism network, allowing travellers from various parts of the state to arrive by bus, enjoy the boat trip, and return the same day. The trip is scheduled to start at 11am from Alappuzha and conclude at 5pm at the same location. Under the Kuttanad Safari, the journey will begin from Alappuzha, offering guests snacks, a traditional toddy tasting experience from a local 'kallu shaap', and a delicious lunch. Visitors will also get to watch a live portrait artist in action, participate in coir spinning and palm weaving, and witness the making of handmade crafts like palm-leaf balls and hats, all part of showcasing the region's cultural vibrancy, said Ganesh Kumar.
