Kerala: Biennale brightens up Muziris circuit

Kochi: The tourist boat service connecting heritage tourism destinations along the Muziris circuit has got an impetus with the ongoing third edition of the Kochi Muziris Biennale. The six air-conditioned hop on- hop off boats do regular trips covering all the heritage destinations along the circuit. Three different circuit tours are being organized for the convenience of tourists.  One can get off and get on from anywhere as per their convenience to explore the destination at leisure.

Five water taxis are also available on hire for those who are not interested in the circuit tours. “With the beginning of the Biennale, there has been considerable increase in the number of tourists using the boat service. We have been getting enquiries from art lovers, especially foreign tourists,” said M.V Kunjiraman, special officer, Muziris Projects Limited.

The average monthly collection from the boats and water taxis is to the tune of Rs 5 lakhs to Rs 6 lakhs, he added. The three different circuits cover seven museums, forts, temples, synagogues, churches, mosques and palaces which link 2,000 years of Kerala’s history. Visitors can enjoy the trip of nine hours from 9 am to 6 PM. The rates fixed are Rs 550 for adults, Rs 400 for children, Rs 1500 for family (parents, 2 children) and Rs 2000 for foreigners.

All the heritage destinations along the circuit including Cheraman Juma Masjid, Kodungalloor Bhagavathy temple, Kottappuram fort, Knanaya Thomman church, the centuries old Kottappuram market, Abdul Rahman Sahib museum, Gothuruth church, Paliam palace, Chendamangalam Jew synagogue, Jewish cemetery, Vypikotta seminary and Chendamangalam mosques are being included in the tour package. All these sites can be accessed through water and by road.