It was just before dusk when I drove into Kadamakkudy, a beautiful village on the outskirts of Kochi. The narrow road wound its way through stretches of lush Pokkali fields, and the green landscape on either side was a refreshing sight after the bustle of the city.
Kadamakkudy is a cluster of fourteen islands, believed to have emerged around the time of the great floods of 1341. Located about 12 kilometres from Edappally, this little-known paradise is surrounded by backwaters, rivers, fields and mangroves. Its unhurried beauty makes it a wonderful escape for anyone looking to spend a peaceful evening close to nature.
An Evening Among the Pokkali Fields
There was hardly any traffic on the narrow road running between the fields. It was the perfect setting for a leisurely evening stroll.
I sat by the edge of the fields for a while, watching the water and taking in the quiet surroundings. A cool evening breeze skimmed across the water and gently touched my face. There was something wonderfully calming about sitting there with nothing but the breeze, the fields and the fading light for company.
We walked as far as we could, occasionally spotting fishermen going about their daily work. Life here seemed to move at a slower, more natural pace.
Eventually, we resumed our drive and stopped at one of the boat jetties.
Sunset from the Backwaters
The ferry service connects the different islands, and a short boat ride offered another way to experience Kadamakkudy. The fare was just Rs. 10 per person, but the experience was priceless.
As the boat moved across the water, the evening sky began its transformation.
The sun appeared as a clear, round ball of pink, slowly sinking behind the trees. Shades of orange and yellow spread across the sky, creating what looked like a beautiful painting. The reflections danced on the water, while the silhouettes of the trees added another layer to the scene.
Slowly, dark clouds began to envelop the sky, deepening the colours of the fading sunset.
I simply sat there and watched.
Sometimes, nature doesn't need any embellishment.
A Haven for Cyclists and Photographers
Kadamakkudy has become a favourite destination for tourists, cyclists and photographers. The landscape is especially beautiful around sunrise and sunset, which are also the times when visitors flock here to enjoy its tranquil scenery.
For cyclists, the quiet roads winding through the fields make for a refreshing ride. For photographers, almost every turn offers a frame — from the Pokkali fields and fishermen to the backwaters, Chinese fishing nets and dramatic evening skies.
Where the Fields Meet the Backwaters
One of the fascinating aspects of Kadamakkudy is its traditional Pokkali farming. The fields follow a seasonal cycle: Pokkali rice is cultivated for part of the year, followed by prawn culture. This traditional system is closely connected to the coastal ecosystem and gives the landscape its distinctive character.
The backwaters and wetlands also make Kadamakkudy a haven for birdwatchers. Migratory birds visit the area in large numbers, turning the islands into a wonderful destination for those who enjoy observing birds in their natural surroundings. The period from February to May is considered a particularly good time for birdwatching.
Simple Food, Simple Pleasures
Kadamakkudy isn't the kind of destination filled with restaurants and cafés designed specifically for tourists. And perhaps that's part of its charm.
Instead, you can experience the local flavours at a traditional toddy shop and enjoy simple Kerala food in a more authentic setting.
A Joy Ride in the Truest Sense
As we drove back home, I felt surprisingly refreshed. The sunset, the Chinese fishing nets, the quiet fields and that cool evening breeze had somehow washed away the day's weariness.
It was, in the truest sense, a joy ride.
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