Allapuzha and Fort Cochin

English - From Kollam we took the 8 hour backwater ferry to a place called Allapuzha where we stayed one night before catching a bus for 1.5hours to Cochin. The backwaters in Kerala are the most enchanting features of Kerala. Backwaters are formed by the accumulation of Sea water at the beach by the to and fro motion of the waves. The eight hour journey was really good and the best way to see the scenery. We sat on the top deck of the boat and cruised gently along at about 8KM an hour. The boats in Kerela are all made by hand and is apparently a pretty skilled job. By the looks of things they are made in back gardens next the river through small family businesses. We stop for lunch and a tea break, had another power nap and destroyed a few more chapters of my book. The rivers and lakes are lined with Chinese fishing nets. Each structure is at least 10m high and comprises a cantilever with an outstretched net suspended over the sea and large stones suspended from ropes as counterweights at the other end. Each installation is operated by a team of up to six fishermen. We are now staying in Fort Cohin, one of the many islands of Cochin. Cochin is one of India's largest ports with many tankers and navel ships. Fort Cochin is a relaxed place with quiet narrow streets lined with shops and eateries. By Chance, we met up with Ben and Cally again Yesterday in the Town and plan to travel with them to Ooty tomorrow which is in the hill country and a bit cooler. For the last two nights we have been going to traditional South Indian music concerts, lots of twan tee twang twang and drums and very entertaining. We have also found an amazing Tibetan cafe with 10 cheese and veg dumplings for 50p bargain! I am also addicted to the fresh sugar cane juice that is squeezed by hand on the streets and is about 10p.

Backwater

big boat

family ferry

Fishing net

fishing net 2

Japanese firends

Klarka ferry

Local Church

Lunch 1

lunch 2

real fish fingers

tanker