Picture this: You’re floating over Kochi’s sparkling backwaters while a cool breeze tickles your face, palm trees wave, and city life buzzes along the shore. There’s no honking or traffic jams – just you, the silken water, and a stylish boat that looks like it arrived from the future! Yes, we’re talking about the Kochi Water Metro, India’s first-ever water metro, and undoubtedly one of thee best ways to see Kochi!
Read on to learn all about the Kochi Water Metro Project and how it’s a great way to see the city. Find necessary details like routes, timings, and fares before you add this experience to your list.
What is the Kochi Water Metro?
And why is it such a big deal? Let us tell you all about it!
The historical city of Kochi is made up of islands and waterways as layered as a Malabar Parotta! The locals and tourists use boats and ferries to get around all day.
This is where the Water Metro comes in! Launched in December 2021, these 70+ battery-operated electric boats, or“Muziris”, connect the mainland to 10 beautiful islands.
They also cover 16 routes (and counting!) spanning a distance of over 75 km. These modern and eco-friendly boats have taken Cochin transport to a whole new level!
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Why people love the Water Metro in Kochi
Everyone from daily commuters to students, families, and tourists is digging the new Water Metro! Here’s what makes it special:
- First of its kind: It’s the world’s first urban water metro! It’s also connected to Kochi’s regular metro so that you can switch from land to water transport easily!
- Amazing views: Passengers can enjoy stunning views of mangroves, fishing nets, and rustic villages passing by! The spacious decks give you a closer look at Kochi’s natural beauty!
- Super comfortable: The boats have air conditioning, Wi-Fi, cozy seats, and charging ports.
- Accessible: They have ramps for wheelchairs, prams, and priority seating for elderly people and mothers with kids.
- Eco-friendly: They run on batteries, so they’re quiet and kind to this delicate ecosystem. You’re helping the environment by riding these!
- Efficient: You get to beat the traffic and get around faster.
- Safe: You’re protected by life jackets, CCTV, and a trained staff at all times!
- Pocket-friendly: You can see lots of sights without burning a hole in your wallet.
How can tourists ride the Kochi Water Metro?
See how to take a ride on India’s first Water Metro in Kochi and be a part of history in the making!
STEP 1: Pick Your Route
The Water Metro connects popular places like Vyttila, Fort Kochi, and Kakkanad, among other islands. 9 stations are operational currently, and 30 more are on the way.
Other terminals/stations include Vypin, Kakkanad, High Court, South Chittoor, Cheranalloor, and Eloor. You can refer to this route map for a clearer idea of the Water Metro layout.
If you’re a tourist, ride the Water Metro from Vyttila to Fort Kochi to see the best of Cochin’s rich heritage and colonial charm!
Note: Vyttila to Fort Kochi is not a direct route. You’ll need to change at High Court station.
ALSO SEE – Where to Stay in Kochi? Hotels and Tips
STEP 2: Buy Your Ticket
You can easily purchase a ticket at any of the stations, just like you’d buy one for riding the metro!
Kochi Water Metro tickets are cheaper than a fancy cup of coffee in Kerala! You can pay by credit card, UPI, or cash.
For a more convenient option, simply buy the Kochi1 Card (Kochi Metro and Water Metro card) at the station and get a 20% discount on the fare.
Vytilla to High Court fare: INR 40
High Court to Fort Kochi fare: INR 40
STEP 3: Come Aboard!
Once you’ve got your ticket, head to the boarding area. You’ll love the comfy seating of these stylish catamarans that can fit 50-100 people!
They have proper facilities for boarding with ramps for disabled people and clear signage in English, Hindi, and Malayalam. The boarding process is smooth too.
Fun Fact: With electronic displays and automated announcements, these terminals are made to look like metro stations to amuse travelers!
ALSO SEE – The Many Moods of Fort Kochi Sightseeing
Kochi Water Metro Timings: A Sample Itinerary for a fun day out
Hop on and see the best of Kochi via its jade backwaters!
Here’s what your Kochi itinerary might look like if you book the Vyttila to Fort Kochi route, the most fun route of the Kochi Water Metro for tourists!
9 AM: Start your journey at Vyttila
Grab a window seat and get your camera ready! Enjoy picturesque sights on your smooth ride to Fort Kochi!
10 AM: Explore Fort Kochi
Get down at Fort Kochi and dive into history!
Visit famous tourist places like St. Francis Church (the oldest European church in India) and the Mattancherry Dutch Palace (a blend of vivid murals and cool artifacts).
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12:30 PM: Wander around in Jew Town
Explore the narrow lanes of Jew Town. Buy quirky souvenirs and artifacts from its many antique shops. Visit its fragrant spice markets for traditional spices!
1:30 PM: Have a local lunch at Kerala Cafe
Grab lunch at this local restaurant in Fort Kochi for authentic Kerala cuisine!
They serve many vegetarian, non-vegetarian, and seafood options. Don’t forget to try the Mango Kurukki, Sadhya, Spicy Paneer, Beef Curry, Fish Moilee, Gunpowder Idlis, and Filter Coffee.
3 PM: See the Chinese Fishing Nets
Take a walk along the waterfront to see the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets!
You’ll be amazed by the sight of fishermen catching fish using these large nets, a remnant of the trade links Kochi had with China centuries ago!
4 PM: Watch the sunset at Fort Kochi Beach
Give your day a relaxing end on the cool sands of Fort Kochi Beach. Watch the fishing nets, the vast Arabian Sea, and a glorious sunset in the backdrop!
It’ll be the perfect end to a perfect day! You can head back to your hotel using the Water Metro itself or take a taxi/tuk-tuk.
ALSO SEE – Mattancherry Palace Kochi: A Handy Travel Guide
Tips for riding the Kerala Water Metro
- Go early or just before sunset to avoid the crowds.
- Combine your Water Metro ride with the Kochi Metro for more convenience.
- Carry a camera for stunning pictures of the Kochi backwaters and a pair of binoculars for birdwatching!
- Buy your ticket early and board in time to grab a window seat if you don’t want to miss the views!
- Check all open routes before you plan a trip so that you can explore your preferred areas.
- Always follow the safety instructions.
- Do not litter. Keep the boats and the terminal areas clean and tidy.
“The views are so peaceful and green. It’s a whole different side of Kochi!” – a traveler while describing his Water Metro experience!
India’s first Water Metro is more than a fun and memorable way to get around – it’s the future of transport!
These boats will let you see Kochi’s history, culture, and natural beauty from a different angle, making your Insta-fam jealous!
So, the next time you’re in Kochi, trade the taxis and tuk-tuks for these classy boats! With beautiful views, A/C cabins, comfy seats, and a quiet ride, your Kochi Water Metro experience will be like riding a magic carpet!
ALSO SEE – What to See in Kochi in 24 Hours
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ticket price of Kochi Water Metro?
INR 20 is the minimum ticket price, and the maximum is INR 40. Check the official website for real-time fares as well as weekly and monthly passes.
Is Kochi Water Metro open?
Yes, the Kochi Water Metro is open to both tourists and locals.
Does Kochi Water Metro go to Fort Kochi?
Yes, Fort Kochi is one of the most visited stations of the Water Metro route. It is located on Fort Kochi Beach, letting travelers explore the famous region of Fort Kochi easily. It is connected to other stations via High Court.
How do I find the Water Metro stations?
You’ll find big Water Metro signage in different languages all over Kochi. Follow them till you spot the blue-white Kochi Water Metro stations!
What are the timings?
The timings depend on the route you’re taking. Most Water Metro boats start at 7 AM and run till 8 PM. The schedule is displayed at the stations and on the website.
Can I bring luggage?
Small bags and backpacks are easy to carry on the boats. If you’re carrying big suitcases, ask the staff for guidance.