Tired of the urban buzz of Kochi? Do you ever feel the need to escape the city's relentless pace, even for just an afternoon? What if I told you that a world of serene islands, shimmering backwaters, and tranquil village life exists just a stone's throw away?
Welcome to Kadamakkudy, a stunning archipelago of 14 islands that feels like a world away but is surprisingly close to the heart of Kochi. It's a place where time slows down, where the roads are framed by water, and where the sky puts on a spectacular show every sunrise and sunset. Recently, we took a drive out to this hidden gem, and it was an experience that soothed the soul.
The journey itself is part of the charm. As you turn off the main highway, the cityscape melts away, replaced by narrow, winding roads flanked by lush greenery and the first promising glimpses of water. The air changes, the sounds change, and you can feel yourself entering a different rhythm of life.
The serene backwaters of Kadamakkudy under the soft light of the monsoon clouds. The stillness of the water creates a perfect mirror for the sky.
What truly defines Kadamakkudy is its landscape—it’s often called "Kochi's own Kuttanad," and for good reason. The vast expanses of water, dotted with traditional fishing boats and bordered by swaying coconut palms, are deeply reminiscent of the famous Alleppey backwaters. It’s a place where life is intrinsically tied to the water.
A timeless scene of local life, as a boatman paddles his 'vallam' across the tranquil waters, connecting the scattered islands.
To truly share the immersive beauty of this drive and the peaceful atmosphere of Kadamakkudy, I've created a full video of our journey. You can experience the sights and sounds just as we did. Watch it below in either English or Malayalam—the visuals are the same, so you can choose the language you prefer!
Our Kadamakkudy Journey: The Full Video
For our English-speaking audience:
For our Malayalam-speaking audience (മലയാളം പ്രേക്ഷകർക്കായി):
As you can see in the video, one of the main attractions is the Kadamakkudy Lake View Point road. On one side, you have the sprawling Pokkali fields, a unique ecosystem that alternates between salt-resistant rice cultivation and prawn farming. On the other, fish farms and vast water bodies stretch to the horizon. It's a panorama of blue, green, and the vibrant life they support.
Taking a moment to soak in the incredible 360-degree views from the Kadamakkudy viewpoint.
The beautiful blend of nature and habitation, where mangrove ecosystems thrive right alongside the local community.
The sheer expanse of water here is breathtaking. It creates a sense of openness and freedom that is hard to find in the city. Whether it's the gentle lapping of the waves against the shore or the sight of a lone bird fishing in the shallows, every detail adds to the area's profound tranquility.
The vast, calming waters of Kadamakkudy, a perfect landscape for quiet contemplation and escape.
While the drive itself is a joy, Kadamakkudy offers more for the curious visitor. You can go kayaking through the serene canals, enjoy some of the best birdwatching near Kochi (especially in the early mornings), or indulge in delicious, fresh seafood at one of the local eateries, including the famous toddy shops.
If you're in Kochi and looking for the perfect one-day trip or a simple evening escape, I cannot recommend Kadamakkudy enough. It’s a reminder of the timeless beauty of Kerala's backwaters, waiting to be explored.
The iconic Kerala landscape—a line of coconut palms mirrored in the glassy water, capturing the essence of God's Own Country.
I hope this post and the videos inspire you to take your own trip to this slice of paradise. If you enjoyed this journey, don't forget to like the videos, leave a comment, and subscribe to the channel for more Kerala adventures!
There are places in this world that feel like they're whispered about rather than marked on a map. Anakulam, a serene hamlet nestled deep within the Mankulam forest division of Kerala’s Idukki district, is one such place. Its name, in Malayalam, translates to "The Elephant Pond," a title it earns with breathtaking sincerity almost every single day. This isn't a safari park or a zoo; this is a wild, untamed corner of the Sahyadri mountains where humans and elephants have shared a space in peaceful coexistence for generations.
I recently had the privilege of visiting this magical place for the fifth time, and what I witnessed was so special that I had to capture it on film. The journey itself is part of the adventure. A four-and-a-half-hour, 136-kilometer drive from Kochi transports you from the bustling city into the lush, green heart of Kerala. Alternatively, if you're coming from the popular hill station of Munnar, it's a stunning 42-kilometer drive away. As you get closer, the air changes, the forest thickens, and you can feel the anticipation building. Will they be there?
The first sight that greeted us – a full herd of elephants quenching their thirst in the cool waters of the Anakulam river.
On this particular day, we were in for a surprise. Normally, the herds descend from the forest in the evening. But as we arrived around noon, the river was already bustling with life. A large family, complete with matriarchs, young tuskers, and even tiny, newborn calves, was enjoying the stream. The reason they travel so far to this specific spot is believed to be the unique mineral and salt content in the water, which they can't find elsewhere. They come here only to drink, never to bathe, making it a truly unique natural phenomenon.
Just when we thought the scene couldn't get any more captivating, something truly rare happened. A magnificent lone tusker emerged from the dense forest and calmly walked towards the river to join the herd.
A rare and majestic sight: the lone wild tusker joins the herd, standing tall in the mineral-rich waters.
His presence was grand and majestic, yet he moved with a calm confidence that put everyone at ease. The herd accepted him without any fuss, a silent, beautiful understanding passing between these gentle giants. Watching the "King of the Forest" in his natural element, so close yet so wild, was a moment that will be etched in my memory forever.
See the Magic Unfold
Words and pictures can only convey so much. To truly share the soul-stirring experience of being there, I have created a video of our day at Anakulam. I’ve posted it in both English and Malayalam versions so everyone can enjoy this incredible story.
Where Wild Elephants Gather: A Natural Miracle in Anakulam, Kerala
ആനക്കുളം: കാടിറങ്ങി വന്ന ആനക്കൂട്ടവും ഒറ്റയാൻ കൊമ്പനും!
A Family Gathering
As you see in the videos, this is more than just a watering hole; it's a community center. We watched for hours as the calves, protected by a circle of mothers and aunts, played joyfully in the water. They’d spray each other with their trunks, chase one another, and stumble around with an innocence that was incredibly heartwarming. The strong family bonds and the gentle way they care for each other is a powerful lesson from the natural world.
A wider view of the family gathering, showing just how many elephants had come down to the river that day.
As the afternoon sun began to soften, the herd slowly moved from the river to an adjacent grassy meadow. Bathed in the golden light of the evening, the scene transformed into a living painting. The deep greens of the forest, the vibrant green of the meadow, and the magnificent silhouettes of the elephants created a breathtaking panorama.
The herd grazing peacefully on the meadow in the golden evening light before their return to the forest.
A Note on Responsible Tourism
For nearly three hours, they graced us with their presence before melting back into the forest one by one, with the great tusker being the last to leave, as if ensuring his family was safely on their way. An experience like this comes with a responsibility. We are visitors in their home. It is crucial to maintain a safe distance, to remain quiet, and to never do anything to disturb them. Let's ensure that Anakulam remains a sanctuary where these animals feel safe for generations to come.
Anakulam gifted us a day of pure magic. If you are a lover of wildlife and raw, untouched nature, I cannot recommend this journey enough.
How to Get to Anakulam
Planning your own trip? I've created a custom Google Maps link for the best route from Kochi.
This is the shortest and most car-friendly route from Kochi to Anakulam in Mangulam Taluk. While Google Maps suggests other longer or off-road routes, this one is easily accessible even by regular cars.
There's a unique magic to the monsoon in Kerala. It's more than just rain; it's a sensory overhaul. The air grows heavy with the scent of wet earth, the landscape explodes into a thousand shades of green, and the sea... the sea transforms. The gentle, lapping waves of summer retreat, replaced by a roaring, untamed force that demands respect.
On a recent visit to Njarackal, a coastal village just a short drive from the bustling city of Kochi, I came face-to-face with this magnificent transformation. Standing on the edge of a stone groyne, with the wind whipping and the sky a dramatic canvas of grey clouds, I had a front-row seat to nature's most dramatic theatre.
A walk into the storm. The view from the 'Pulimuttu' (groyne) at Njarackal, where the sea meets the stone shield built to protect the coast.
The Calm Before the Storm
It's hard to imagine that this very spot is a picture of serenity during the summer months. On a clear day, the Njarackal coast is a peaceful haven. Fishing enthusiasts line these same rock walls with their rods, families stroll along the sand, and the Arabian Sea whispers gently against the shore. It is a place of calm, of gentle breezes and golden sunsets. The monsoon, however, awakens a different beast altogether. The sea sheds its tranquil persona and reveals its raw, formidable power.
A Man-Made Shield Against Nature's Might
The only reason one can safely witness this spectacle is thanks to the 'Pulimuttu' – the local name for these long groynes or sea walls built from massive black stones. Stretching from Elamkunnapuzha to Kuzhuppilly, this 10-kilometer rock fortress is the lifeline for the coastal villages of Vypin island. It stands as a steadfast barrier, absorbing the relentless punishment of the waves, season after season, to protect the homes, roads, and lives nestled just beyond the shore. Even so, the sea often wins small battles, leaving the new beach road submerged under water and sand during high tide.
The constant battle line. Churning monsoon waves crash against the sea wall, protecting the fragile coastline of Njarackal.
A Symphony of Power and Peril
Standing on that groyne is an overwhelming experience. The sound is the first thing that hits you – a deep, guttural roar that vibrates through the stones beneath your feet. It’s a constant cacophony of crashing waves, each one exploding into a plume of white spray that mists your face with salt. You can feel the sheer force of the water as it smashes into the rocks, a testament to the incredible energy held within the ocean.
It’s a beautiful sight, but also a deeply humbling and dangerous one. This is not the time to test the waters. The pull of the current is immense, and the waves can easily sweep an unsuspecting person off the rocks. The evidence of its power is scattered all around, with massive stones from the wall dislodged and thrown onto the beach like pebbles.
The raw, atmospheric beauty of the Arabian Sea during the monsoon, as seen from the relative safety of the Njarackal groyne.
Experience the Roar: A 15-Minute Immersion
Words and photographs can only convey a fraction of this experience. To truly understand the scale, the sound, and the relentless motion of the monsoon sea, you need to see it for yourself.
I filmed my experience for 15 minutes, capturing the fierce and captivating dance of the waves. Press play to be transported to the edge of the Arabian Sea and witness its monsoon fury unfold.
Respecting the Power
My visit to Njarackal was a profound reminder of the duality of nature. The same sea that provides tranquility and livelihood can become a force of untamed power. It's a spectacle of breathtaking beauty, but one that must be viewed with caution and immense respect. It highlights the resilience of the coastal communities and the critical importance of the silent, stone sentinels that stand guard against the raging water.
Have you ever witnessed the sea during a monsoon? Share your experiences in the comments below!
Video Duration: 2 minutes 46 seconds (YouTube Shorts) Location: Fort Kochi Beach, Kerala, India
📸 A Monsoon Evening Walk at Fort Kochi
After a day-long downpour, we visited Fort Kochi Beach during a short break in the rain. It was one of those rare evenings when the weather calmed just enough to reveal the raw beauty of the monsoon coastline.
As we stepped onto the granite stone walkway, waves relentlessly crashed against the rocks, soaking parts of the path and drawing curious glances from visitors. Families and children were spotted at the shoreline, dipping their feet in the frothy waves, laughing and enjoying nature’s rhythm.
What struck us most was how Fort Kochi's beach terrain transforms with the seasons. During summer, there's more sand to walk on, but in the monsoon, the sea takes over — leaving only traces of the beach and a lot more dramatic wave activity.
🎥 Watch the Video
📹 YouTube Shorts:
Title:Monsoon Magic at Fort Kochi Beach | Sea Waves & Sunset Moments
🌅 A Clean, Serene, and Glowing Coastline
Unlike some earlier visits where litter distracted from the natural charm, this time the area appeared cleaner and more vibrant — perhaps because the monsoon had washed away the clutter. The mood was peaceful.
By the end of our visit, the sun slowly emerged from behind the rain clouds, casting a glowing golden light over the horizon. The orange and amber tones reflecting off the Arabian Sea gave us a perfect golden hour experience, even after a gloomy, rainy day.
📷 Highlights from the Video (Stills)
Sea waves crashing on mossy granite rocks
Crowds enjoying the evening on the walkway
Families playing in the surf near the shore
Sunset painting the sky in gold and orange
Boats visible far off in the dusky Arabian Sea
🏁 Final Thoughts
This short visit reminded us how Fort Kochi never looks the same twice. Each visit, especially during the monsoon, shows a new side of the beach. If you're in Kochi during the rainy season, don't miss a walk here — just be ready to get a little wet and a lot mesmerized.
Evening stroll along the Fort Kochi beach walkway, as waves crash gently against the moss-covered sea wall.
Visitors gather near the iconic Chinese fishing nets, with a cargo vessel docked at the busy Kochi port in the background.
Families and children enjoy the monsoon sea waves at the limited sandy stretch of Fort Kochi beach.
Sea waves striking the stone walkway beside the lush green promenade at Fort Kochi during a calm break in the rain.
A glowing sunset breaks through the monsoon clouds, casting golden reflections over the Arabian Sea.
Fort Kochi, Monsoon in Kerala, Kerala Beach Walk, Fort Kochi Beach, Kochi Travel Blog, Fort Kochi Sunset, Sea Wall Walk Kochi, Kerala Beach Vibes, Arabian Sea Waves, Travel Video Blog, YouTube Shorts India, Monsoon Coastal Scenes
Kerala, "God's Own Country," is renowned for its serene backwaters, lush greenery, and stunning coastlines. Tucked away near Kochi, in the Chellanam region, lies a relatively new gem that's rapidly capturing the hearts of locals and travelers alike: the Kandakkadavu-Chellanam seawall walkway. This isn't just a picturesque path; it's a testament to human ingenuity, community resilience, and the raw beauty of the Arabian Sea.
Imagine a 7.3-kilometer stretch where you can walk, with the endless expanse of the sea on one side and verdant coconut groves on the other, the setting sun painting the sky in hues of orange and gold. This is the experience that awaits you. And to bring this experience closer to everyone, we at Keralapix have created detailed video guides – one in English for our pan-India and international viewers, and another in Malayalam for our local audience, both showcasing the exact same stunning visuals!
The inviting 7.3 km Kandakkadavu-Chellanam walkway, perfect for a serene evening stroll along the Kochi coastline.
The Allure of the Kandakkadavu-Chellanam Walkway
Stretching an impressive 7.36 kilometers from the Chellanam Fishing Harbour to Puthenthode, this walkway offers more than just a path. It’s an immersive coastal experience. As you stroll along the clean, tiled surface, the rhythmic sound of the (distant) waves and the refreshing sea breeze provide a natural symphony.
Evenings are particularly magical here. The walkway becomes a prime spot to witness breathtaking sunsets over the Arabian Sea. Far out, you might spot fishing boats making their way, tiny silhouettes against the vast waters. While you can't dip your toes directly into the crashing waves here – as the walkway sits atop a mighty seawall – the expansive, uninterrupted views are a feast for the eyes.
Golden hour magic at Kandakkadavu, as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the walkway and tetrapods.
More Than Just a Scenic Route: A Lifeline and an Engineering Marvel
This impressive structure serves a critical purpose: protecting the low-lying coastal villages of Chellanam and its surroundings from the often-destructive fury of the sea. For decades, residents faced the brunt of coastal erosion and flooding, especially during monsoons. Their persistent efforts, led by the Chellanam Janakeeya Vedi (People's Forum), finally led to the government initiating this project in 2021.
The engineering behind it is fascinating. The seawall features a dual-component structure. The sea-facing side is fortified with massive tetrapods – specially shaped concrete blocks weighing between two to five tons – designed to break the force of the waves. The landward side is a robust wall of granite stones, rising three meters from the ground. Atop this granite structure sits the 2.5-meter wide concrete walkway.
This ambitious project, the largest of its kind by the Kerala Irrigation Department, was implemented by the Uralungal Labour Contract Co-operative Society (ULCCS) with a significant ₹344.2 crore funding from the Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB). The meticulous planning and study were conducted by the Chennai-based National Centre for Coastal Research (NCCR), with supervision from the Anti-Sea Erosion Project Management Unit.
To get a comprehensive understanding of this remarkable place and its features, watch our detailed English video guide:
The mighty tetrapods forming the first line of defense against the sea, crucial for protecting the Chellanam coast.
A Journey Through Kerala's Coastal Charm
The walk is not just about the sea; it’s about the entire coastal ecosystem. The landward side is adorned with rows of coconut palms, their green fronds swaying against the blue sky, offering a classic Keralan backdrop. It’s a sanctuary for those seeking peace, fresh air, and a moment with nature.
Strategically located, Kandakkadavu is easily accessible. If you're driving from Kochi city, a roughly 20-kilometer journey via Thoppumpady and Kannamaly on State Highway 66 will bring you here. It’s also a convenient and refreshing stop for tourists traveling along SH66 between popular destinations like Alappuzha and Mararikulam.
Lush palm groves line the landward side of the walkway, offering a beautiful contrast to the azure Arabian Sea.
Experience it in Your Preferred Language: മലയാളത്തിലും ലഭ്യമാണ്!
Understanding the diverse audience we cater to, we've ensured that the beauty and information about this place are accessible to all. For our Malayalam-speaking viewers, we have a dedicated video with the same stunning visuals and detailed narration in Malayalam.
നിങ്ങളുടെ ഭാഷയിൽ ഈ അനുഭവം ആസ്വദിക്കൂ! കണ്ടക്കടവ് കടൽപ്പാതയുടെ മനോഹാരിതയും വിശദാംശങ്ങളും ഉൾക്കൊള്ളുന്ന ഞങ്ങളുടെ മലയാളം വീഡിയോ കാണുക:
The Impact: Safety, Serenity, and a Model for the Future
The positive impact of the Chellanam seawall has been immediate and profound. Coastal residents, who once lived in constant fear during high tides and monsoons, now feel a greater sense of security. Areas previously prone to flooding have remained safe, even during heavy rains. The success of this project has been so significant that the state government is considering replicating this model in other vulnerable coastal regions of Kerala.
Walking here, you might also glimpse remnants of older, damaged structures, a stark reminder of the challenges the sea once posed – and a powerful illustration of how far this community has come.
The Kandakkadavu walkway is easily accessible, becoming a popular spot for locals and visitors to unwind and enjoy the coastal ambiance.
Planning Your Visit & Our Video Guides
If you're planning a visit, remember:
Parking: Convenient parking is available at the base.
Access: Steps are provided at regular intervals (16 locations) to get onto the elevated walkway.
Best Time: Evenings are ideal for pleasant weather and sunsets. Daytime can be quite hot due to the lack of shade.
Lighting: There are currently no streetlights, so night visits are best avoided for safety.
Whether you're planning an actual trip or just want a virtual tour, our videos on the Keralapix YouTube channel are your perfect guides. They cover everything you need to know, from the scenic beauty to the engineering marvels.
Don't miss the spectacular sunsets at Kandakkadavu – a truly unforgettable Keralan experience.
A Coastal Jewel Worth Exploring
The Kandakkadavu-Chellanam seawall walkway is more than just infrastructure; it's a symbol of hope, a hub for the community, an engineering success, and a stunning new addition to Kerala's tourism landscape. It’s a place where natural beauty meets human endeavor, creating a space that is both functional and breathtakingly beautiful.
We invite you to explore it, either in person or through our videos. Don't forget to subscribe to our Keralapix YouTube channel for more explorations of Kerala's hidden and not-so-hidden gems!
The monsoon season in Kochi is a spectacle of nature's raw power and breathtaking beauty. While the rains bring lush greenery and a cool respite, they also transform the usually serene waters around this coastal city into a dramatic, churning seascape. This year, on May 24, 2025, I captured some of these captivating moments, showcasing how life and transport adapt to the formidable Arabian Sea and Kochi's backwaters during this intense period.
Join me on a visual journey through four distinct scenes, each telling a story of resilience and the relentless rhythm of the monsoon. Though the narration in each video is in Malayalam, the visuals speak a universal language of nature's might and human endeavor.
Part 1: The Nefertiti Cruise Braving the Monsoon Swells
Our first glimpse into Kochi's monsoon mood takes us to Fort Kochi beach. Here, we witness the Nefertiti cruise ship, a popular tourist vessel, heading out into the Arabian Sea. Despite a momentary lull in the downpour during the evening when this was filmed, the sea remained incredibly rough. You can see numerous tourists on deck, braving the choppy waters to experience the unique thrill of a monsoon voyage. The visuals clearly demonstrate the turbulent conditions, offering a stark contrast to the usual calm cruise experience.
Part 2: The Mighty DCI Dredge 20 at Work Amidst Fury
Continuing our exploration from Fort Kochi beach, the second video features the DCI Dredge 20. This formidable dredger plays a crucial role in maintaining the navigability of Kochi's port channel by removing silt and mud, which it then deposits further out in the Arabian Sea. Filmed during an evening break in the rain, this footage truly captures the fierce character of the Arabian Sea during the monsoon. The powerful waves and the steady progress of the dredger highlight the essential, ongoing work that continues even when the seas are at their most challenging.
Part 3: Kochi Water Metro's Battle Against the Elements
The third video shifts focus to the modern Kochi Water Metro, showcasing its struggle as it attempts to dock at the Fort Kochi jetty near the turbulent estuary (Azhimukham). With the arrival of the monsoon, both the Arabian Sea and the estuary become exceptionally rough. This footage captures the intense effort and skill required to maneuver the Water Metro boat against strong winds and high waves. In the background, you can spot the DP World Vallarpadam Container Terminal, with ships docked and massive cranes used for loading and unloading containers, a reminder of the constant hum of maritime commerce.
Part 4: The Resilient Fort Kochi-Vypin RoRo Ferry Service
Our final video highlights the indispensable Fort Kochi-Vypin RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) ferry. Laden with vehicles and passengers, the ferry is seen navigating the choppy waters of the Kochi backwaters, close to the estuary. The impact of the heavy monsoon, with its strong winds and waves, is evident as the RoRo occasionally appears to sway significantly.
This service operates with two RoRo vessels, both of which are pressed into service during peak hours – and you can even see both in the same frame at one point in the video! During off-peak times, a single vessel manages the route. These ferries, built by Cochin Shipyard for the Kochi Corporation, are a lifeline for commuters, and a third vessel has recently been ordered.
As the ferry makes its journey, you'll also see the iconic Chinese fishing nets of Fort Kochi. Even amidst this dramatic weather, visitors can be seen enjoying the monsoon ambiance on the nearby breakwater and the small stretch of beach, truly embracing the spirit of Kochi.
These four videos offer just a snapshot of Kochi's dynamic monsoon. They showcase not only the power of nature but also the resilience of the city's maritime activities. I hope these visuals provide a captivating look into a unique aspect of life in Kochi. Don't forget to watch the videos to fully experience these monsoon moments!
As a shipspotting enthusiast and content creator based in Kochi, it's always a thrill to witness a grand cruise ship sailing close to shore. On this particular day, I was lucky to spot and film the elegant Seven Seas Voyager (IMO: 9247144), a luxury cruise liner flagged under the Bahamas, as it approached the Cochin Port through the Arabian Sea.
From my vantage point near Fort Kochi Beach, I captured both video footage and still images of the ship’s arrival. The weather was clear, and the ocean calm, making for a perfect backdrop.
📽️ Main Video – Watch the Seven Seas Voyager Enter Cochin Port
The video shows the Seven Seas Voyager gradually appearing on the horizon and sailing towards Cochin Port through the international shipping channel. You can see several local fishing trawlers and small boats sharing the same waters, highlighting the diverse maritime activity off Kochi’s coast.
📸 Still Photographs from Fort Kochi Shipspotting Session
Below are two high-resolution stills I captured with a telephoto lens during the shoot. These images offer different perspectives of the cruise liner’s approach and passage.
📷 Photo 1: Distant Approach from the Arabian Sea
Seven Seas Voyager approaches Cochin Port from the Arabian Sea, as seen from Fort Kochi. Fishing trawlers and small boats dot the waters, creating a dynamic maritime scene.
📷 Photo 2: Close Pass with LNG Terminal in the Background
Seven Seas Voyager passes Fort Kochi Beach, with the massive LNG storage tanks of the Petronet LNG terminal forming a dramatic industrial backdrop.
🎞️ YouTube Shorts – A Quick Look at the Arrival
For a brief look, check out the Shorts version of this shipspotting event:
🚢 About the Ship: Seven Seas Voyager
IMO: 9247144
Flag: Bahamas
Type: Cruise Ship
Operator: Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Notable Feature: All-balcony, all-suite luxury liner with a capacity of ~700 passengers.
🧭 Location Details
Viewing Point: Fort Kochi Beach
Direction of Approach: From Arabian Sea via International Channel to Cochin Port
Opposite Shoreline: Vypin Island, with Petronet LNG Terminal
Fort Kochi Beach is a haven for shipspotters and maritime enthusiasts. On this particular evening, I had the opportunity to capture the impressive WAN HAI 515, a Singapore-flagged container vessel, as it entered the Cochin Port channel escorted by tugs. The golden hour light, sea breeze, and the unmistakable hum of the massive vessel made the moment unforgettable.
This blog post features my 4K video of the ship's approach and berthing operations, alongside a few still images that capture the essence of this marine movement.
Ship Name: WAN HAI 515 Flag: Singapore IMO Number: 9457646 Operator: WAN HAI LINES Location Spotted: Fort Kochi Beach, Kerala
Date: 13 May 2025
📸 Photo Gallery
Below are some still frames I captured from the beach during the arrival of the vessel. The natural light and sea conditions added drama and beauty to the scene.
1. At Sunset – Approaching the Channel
The WAN HAI 515 approaches the shipping channel off Fort Kochi as the sun sets in the background. A tug boat prepares to assist with berthing.
2. Close to Shore – Moments Before Turning
Just before the container ship makes a turn toward the port. The vessel dwarfs the tugs guiding it, showing the scale of maritime logistics.
3. Docking – Final Moments Before Port Entry
View of the WAN HAI 515 from behind as it nears its berth at Cochin Port, with cranes in the background ready for unloading.
If you're passionate about merchant shipping, marine logistics, or simply enjoy the serenity of watching ships glide across the horizon, Fort Kochi Beach is a must-visit spot. From container giants like the WAN HAI 515 to smaller coastal freighters, there’s always something happening along the coast. You can subscribe to my YouTube channel [Keralapix] for regular videos featuring container ships, cruise liners, fishing boats, and port life from Kochi and beyond.
One of the best ways to witness the beauty of Kochi city is by taking a walk during the early morning hours when the rising sun casts a golden hue across the landscape. On a recent morning, I headed out to Goshree Bolgatty Bridge, a scenic stretch connecting the mainland to the islands, carrying with me my new Canon EOS R50 V camera equipped with an EF 24–105mm f/4L IS USM lens.
This blog post features two videos I captured during that walk—one in horizontal format and the other as a vertical YouTube Shorts video, both filmed in 4K resolution. Alongside these, I’m sharing four still photographs that reflect the essence of that peaceful morning—sunrise, human activity, traffic, and the serene backwaters.
📽️ Video 1: Morning Scenes from Goshree Bolgatty Bridge – 4K Dash & Traffic Views
This video captures a range of visuals—from ferry boats gently gliding across the backwaters to traffic slowly building up on the bridge. It was also a test of how well the Canon EOS R50 V could perform in varied light and motion conditions. The video showcases:
The morning commute on two-wheelers, trucks, and buses
Local water transport and fishing boats
The tranquil backwaters with a warm sunrise backdrop
This vertical video brings focus to the bold rising sun, shot using a telephoto perspective. With vehicles like container trucks, cars, and bikes silhouetted in the frame, it creates a dramatic view of Kochi waking up. The final shot shows two men paddling a country boat, adding a local flavor to the otherwise urban composition.
🖼️ Featured Still Photos:
Here are four high-resolution stills I captured during the same outing. All were taken using the Canon EOS R50 V with shutter priority mode and adjusted exposure to handle the strong morning backlight.
Cyclists during sunrise
Cars under golden sky
Boats near Bolgatty
Bikes and sunrise glow
📸 Camera Info: Canon EOS R50 V, Lens: EF 24–105mm f/4L IS USM with EF to EOS R Mount Adapter
Settings varied: ISO 100–125, Aperture f/4.5 to f/5.6, Shutter 1/125s to 1/125s, White Balance: Auto, Mode: Shutter Priority
🌅 Why Goshree Bolgatty Bridge is a Great Spot for Morning Photography
This location provides a rare combination of:
Open view of the sunrise over the backwaters
Movement of local transport (buses, bikes, trucks)
Access to pedestrian paths
Boats and ferries nearby for diverse framing
If you’re looking to test a new camera or simply enjoy a peaceful photo walk in Kochi, I highly recommend an early morning visit to this bridge.
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The air in Kodungallur, Kerala, on March 31st, 2025, crackled with an almost palpable energy. The annual Kodungallur Bharani Festival, centered around the revered Kodungallur Devi Temple, reached its zenith with the powerful and unique Kavu Theendal ritual. For those fortunate enough to witness it, the experience was nothing short of transformative – a vibrant explosion of devotion, tradition, and raw human emotion.
The Kodungallur Bharani Festival is a significant event in the Kerala temple calendar, drawing devotees from far and wide to pay homage to the powerful goddess, Bhadrakali. The Kavu Theendal, meaning "shaking the sacred grove," is the heart of this festival, a ritualistic expression of devotion that is both captivating and intense.
As the auspicious day dawned, the temple grounds and the surrounding areas were already teeming with a sea of devotees. Many were clad in traditional attire, their faces reflecting a mixture of anticipation and reverence. The atmosphere was thick with the sounds of traditional percussion instruments – the rhythmic beating of drums and the piercing notes of wind instruments created an electrifying ambience that resonated deep within.
The Kavu Theendal ritual involves devotees, primarily men, circumambulating the temple, often in a trance-like state. Many carry sticks or swords, symbolically striking the roof tiles of the temple and the surrounding structures. This act is believed to appease the goddess and is performed with intense fervor. The air is filled with the sounds of their rhythmic movements and the collective chanting of prayers and praises to the Devi.
Our time-lapse short video perfectly captures the sheer scale and motion of the devotees during the Kavu Theendal. You can feel the vibe as you witness the continuous flow of people, their movements creating a mesmerizing spectacle of devotion. The vibrant atmosphere is palpable even in the accelerated pace of the video.
The participation of women devotees is equally significant. Dressed in vibrant sarees, they often carry pots containing turmeric powder and other offerings, adding to the colorful tapestry of the festival. Their presence underscores the inclusive nature of this powerful tradition.
Our second short video provides a normal-speed glimpse into the key moments of the Kavu Theendal. You can witness the intensity in the eyes of the devotees and the rhythmic movements as they express their unwavering faith. This short highlight reel offers a quick yet immersive experience of the ritual's core.
One of the most captivating aspects of the Bharani Festival is the visible dedication of devotees of all ages. Our next short video focuses on a young female devotee, completely immersed in the Kavu Theendal ritual, showcasing a profound connection to the Devi that transcends age.
Witnessing her devotion firsthand is a powerful reminder of the deep-rooted faith that permeates this festival. Her participation embodies the vibrant atmosphere and the deeply personal connection each devotee shares with the goddess.
The Kodungallur Bharani Festival and the Kavu Theendal ritual are more than just religious events; they are a vibrant expression of Kerala's rich cultural heritage. The sights, sounds, and emotions on display offer a unique window into a tradition that has been passed down through generations. The electrifying ambience and the palpable sense of community make it an unforgettable experience for all who participate or witness it.
The memories and footage captured on March 31st, 2025, serve as a testament to the enduring power of faith and tradition. The Kodungallur Bharani Festival continues to be a significant cultural landmark, drawing people together in a shared expression of devotion.
