Enthused at the demand from tourists for coracles introduced a week ago in Alappuzha, an entrepreneur plans to introduce these down-to-earth, non-mechanised vessels in Poothotta and Vaikom.
The coracles (circular, light weight vessels called ‘kotta vanchi’ in Malayalam) that were introduced in Punnamada Lake were sourced from Andhra Pradesh and cost Rs 3,000 a piece. Up to four people can travel in them through canals while savouring the scenic beauty of villages on either side, said P. J. Varghese who heads Tourist Desk-Kochi.
“Apart from canals, they are ideal for ponds like the one at Ernakulam Children’s Park. Tourists who come seeking a rustic experience prefer them to mechanised boats which create pollution and noise while costing many times the price. Coracles also increase the duration of stay of tourists who seek activity-based tourism, without burning a hole in their pocket. Such eco-friendly, economical and sustainable tourism ventures must be preferred over ventures like the seaplane project,” he said.
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Their price can be brought down if agencies like Bamboo Corporation manufacture them using bamboo procured locally, Mr. Varghese said.
Tourists can do angling during their cruise and the same fish is cooked and served for lunch. They can also partake in activities like weaving coconut fronds during halts.
A senior official of Ernakulam District Tourism Promotion Council said coracles are safe for use in calm waters or big ponds.
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