As a city, Kochi has arrived; crazy traffic—check, crowded malls—check, booming businesses—check. But Kochi has a secret life, where she likes to be by herself. Where she wets her feet in cool waters and soaks in the early morning sun undisturbed by automobiles and machines and mankind.
Egged on by wanderlust and tired of the buzz of the malls, a few have started venturing out to these lesser-known, non-commercial parts of the city.
“Just minutes away from the madness of traffic lies this place so serene, it is like a hidden blessing,” says Tom Thomas, a telecom executive. An avid traveller, he says one of the first things he did after relocating to Kochi from Bangalore was to explore the city. Tom, who is also a cyclist, took off on his bike trips around the city.
“You will be surprised at what Kochi has to offer. Since most of these beautiful places are within city limits, you can just drive down, cycle or take your motorbike,” he says. Since he loves kayaking, Kochi’s backwaters were a bonus.
While the District Administration is sprucing up parks, public spaces and creating new recreation centres, there is a considerable few, who seek out solitary spots. For professionals who may not have the time to plan holidays, these places afford the luxury of a day picnic.
Ajith Varma, who owns a bike store in Palarivattom, says exploring the city throws up quite a few delights.
“There are lush paddy fields and water bodies. There are plenty of places within the city, which give a rustic feel,” he says.
Ajith, who is also a cycling enthusiast, says he goes on solo rides sometimes just to enjoy this unhurried beauty of Kochi. “There are several clusters of islands around Kochi, which are lovely getaways. To break the monotony of the ride, I take the ferry to the other side of the island.”
The Container Terminal Road is emerging as one of the most sought-after hangouts.
As evening approaches, people arrive and the stretch is lined with cars. “With the breeze on your face and the water and the setting sun, you feel like you are in a different world,” says Annu Mathew, a lawyer, who frequents the Container Terminal Road.
“Most of the centres in the city are crowded, especially during weekends. So, it is great to find a silent scenic spot without getting out of the city,” she says.
Here are a few places within Kochi where you can unwind, contemplate or do nothing.
Konthuruty-Mattummal dead end
The Konthuruthy-Mattummal dead end, a detour from the Thevara Road, affords a panoramic view of the backwaters, a perfect backdrop for a quiet evening. Those interested in fishing can try their luck here. Though not yet on the commercial recreation spots list, the place has been attracting a few families to it.
Thevara Ferry
If not for the occasional boat, there is nothing much happening here. With its silent waters and a jetty with an ageing roof, it looks like it has been transplanted from a movie setting. The ferry, which links Kumbalam and Nettoor to other areas of the city, is another one of the quaint picnic spots within Kochi.
Kadambrayar
Except for a few tall buildings from the city peeking over coconut trees, it is hard to believe this place is in Kochi. Near the amusement park Wonderla, Kadambrayar has nothing but still, emerald waters, lush fields and coconut trees. All you can do is soak in the calm and enjoy birdsong and perhaps, listen to yourself.
Chathiath Road
If there is an idle evening in sight, the Goshree-Chathiath Road might be a good spot to spend it. The recent beautification has led to its popularity as a hangout for families. So you might find a few ice-cream, peanut and snack vendors. On weekends, it tends to get a tad crowded, but there are few things comparable to the joy of sitting on the edge of the backwaters and staring into the horizon.
Chilavannoor Road end
Get a book, snacks and soft drinks and head to this spot at the end of Chilavannoor Road. The calm backwaters can be seen in their resplendent glory. Catch a glimpse of clusters of mangroves in the middle of the water. For those interested in kayaking, the waters offer a perfect setting. There are steps that lead into the water, so getting into the boat is not difficult. As long as you don’t paddle into the Southern Naval Command territory, you can traverse a good length of Kochi’s backwaters—Chambakkara, Thevara, Maradu.
