Kerala's Pioneering Kuttanad Safari Set to Commence on March 1 with Solar-Powered Vessel
The State Water Transport Department (SWTD) of Kerala is poised to launch its innovative 'Kuttanad Safari' tourist package on March 1, marking a significant enhancement to the region's tourism offerings. This day-long excursion is designed to provide visitors with an immersive journey through the heart of Kuttanad, featuring rare traditional artforms, local cuisine, and scenic beauty, particularly on the picturesque Pathiramanal Island, renowned for its rare migratory birds.
Solar-Electric Boat Indra to Enhance the Safari Experience
SWTD director Shaji V Nair announced that the service will initiate with a 30-passenger boat on March 1, but will soon upgrade to the 100-passenger capacity air-conditioned vessel 'Indra' by mid-April. Indra, recognized as India's largest solar-electric boat, is currently operational in Ernakulam and will be redeployed to Alappuzha specifically for the Kuttanad Safari. To fill the gap in Ernakulam, a new solar ferry will be launched to conduct backwater tours, ensuring sustainable tourism practices across the state.
This first-of-its-kind tour package aims to offer a comprehensive experience of Kuttanad's unique landscape and culture, blending luxury with grassroots engagement. Priced at Rs 1,000 per ticket, it is positioned as an accessible yet premium option that supports local communities through sustainable livelihood opportunities.
Immersive Itinerary: From Local Breakfast to Cultural Performances
Modeled on the desert safaris of Arab nations, the Kuttanad Safari begins at 10 am from the Alappuzha Boat Jetty. The journey starts with a thaninadan (hyper-local) breakfast at local stalls, introducing travelers to the authentic flavors of the region. As the boat navigates through labyrinthine canals, passengers are encouraged to participate in local activities, such as coconut palm weaving and coir spinning, rather than being mere spectators.
The itinerary includes strategic stops at engineering marvels like the R-Block and C-Block areas, where farming occurs below sea level, highlighting Kuttanad's agricultural ingenuity. A lunch break at a traditional toddy shop offers a taste of the region's fiery, spice-rich cuisine, further enriching the cultural immersion.
Pathiramanal Island: A Cultural Hub with Eco-Friendly Infrastructure
The highlight of the safari is the stopover on Pathiramanal Island, where visitors will be treated to rare traditional artforms. In collaboration with the folk repertory agency IPTA and the Muhamma grama panchayat, the SWTD has arranged performances of Villadichan Pattu—an ancient musical storytelling method—Yakshaganam, Kalaripayattu (the mother of all martial arts), and the ritualistic Garudan Parava. Guides will narrate the history of Alappuzha's heritage, explaining the significance of local artforms like Velakali and Kuthiyottam.
To facilitate these performances, a stunning eco-friendly amphitheatre crafted from bamboo and grass has been constructed on the island. This model not only enhances the tourist experience but also serves as a replicable example for eco-tourism elsewhere in Kerala, providing a source of income for local artists and boosting community welfare.
Sustainable Tourism and Local Engagement
As the safari concludes with a sunset return journey across Vembanad Lake, travelers gain insights into the local lime shell industry and have the opportunity to shop from 'floating stores'—small boats selling handicrafts and produce. This aspect emphasizes the safari's role in bridging luxury cruising with grassroots cultural tourism, ensuring that tourists take home memorable experiences while the local community benefits economically.
The Kuttanad Safari represents a collaborative effort between the SWTD, IPTA, and Muhamma grama panchayat, with revenue sharing agreements in place to support sustainable development. By integrating solar technology, cultural preservation, and community involvement, this initiative sets a new standard for responsible tourism in Kerala, promising to attract visitors seeking authentic and environmentally conscious travel options.
