Athachamayam
It is a spectacular procession that marks the beginning of
the Onam festival during August-September, conducted at Thirpunithura
(10km from Kochi ) and Piravam. It displays a rare treasure
house of folk and temple arts of Kerala performed by skilled
artists. Decorated Elephants and a variety of floats are the
other attractions of the procession.
Temple Festival
'Ulsavam' at the Siva Temple in Ernakulam for 8 days during
Jan/Feb. There are elephant processions each day and folk
dance and music performances. The day before last, there is
a spectacular display of 'Kadhina' (crackers) at 7.00 arranged
on the road from hospital Junction to the temple. The Festival
ends with a display of fireworks at 2.00 clock in the morning.
Cochin Carnival
This feast is observed during the last week of December every
year at Fort Kochi. The origin is traced to Portuguese New
Year revelry here during the colonial days. The highlight
of the Carnival is the massive procession on the New Year
Day. A decorated elephant leads the procession accompanied
by 'Panchavadyam', music bands, fancy dress, spectacular floats,
folk arts forms of Kerala etc.
Indira Gandhi Boat Race
It is organised at Ernakulam during the month of December
every year along with the tourism fair. Several snake boats
participate in the first round and first few are selected
for the finals. This is one of the most famous events of Kerala.
Boat Rides - Back water cruises
Motor boat rides
Sight seeing cruise conducted by KTDC (Kerala Tourism Development
Corporation).
Ph: 2369896
a) Trips are available at 9pm and 2pm from Sealord Jetty.
Duration 3 hours each.
b) Sunset Tour at 6pm from Sealord Jetty.
c) Trips to Alappuzha. Duration 5 hours
d) Trips to Kumarakom. Duration 4 hours
Private boats are also available for hire.
Country boat rides
KTDC conducts village backwater cruises on country
boats without outboard motors. This cruise offer glimpse of
the rural life with its toddy tapping, fishing and coir making
activities. Duration - 4 hours. Rate Rs.300/-.
Tourist Information Centre, Kochi; Tourist Bureau, Ph: 2222671;
Visit India, Willingdon Island, Ph: 2668819 also offer boat
rides.
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