Luxury cruise to be back in Kerala tourism circuits
Published July 7, 2011 | 
AMET group is picking up the cruise options from where Louis Cruise had left due to high berth charges! The AMET group has already started arrangements to operate the cruise by the first week of October , if everything goes on as planned .
AMET group CEO, P Bharathi held discussions with the officials of the Cochin Port Trust in this regard, a few weeks back. The final decision on berth charges and other related matter will be taken at the next board meeting of the Cochin port trust.
AMET is planning to start a cruise service from Kochi to Maldives ( 4 nights), Kochi -Lakshadeep ( 2 nights)and high sea cruise during nights. If there is one trip to Maldives and three high sea trips one week , in the next week it will be two trips to Lakshadeep and three high sea trips, which will be on a rotation basis. High sea trips will be conducted every week as it is the most attractive package and a handy get away for a day for the busy city folks.
The cruise liner will operate for 5-6 months a year and will make a minimum of 100 calls to the Kochi berth. At present there are over 50-60cruises calling at the Cochin port and once AMET starts its operations, it will go up to more than 150 a year. With the resumption of this service, cruise tourism is likely to gain more popularity and is expected to bring in huge revenue. State of the art facilities may be introduced at the berths to woo international tourists.
It may be recalled that when Louis cruise introduced their services nearly 2,50,000 people enjoyed the cruise in a matter of just 6 weeks, out of which more than half of the tourists were from states outside Kerala. The count down has already started. So, be ready to explore the high seas and the fun of a luxury cruise right here in Kochi in the days ahead.
The best of Minicoy, now showing in Kochi!
Published November 18, 2009 | Step into David Hall at Fort Kochi this week and you are likely to be transported into a distant world, viz., the Minicoy Islands, the southernmost part of Lakshadweep, India’s smallest Union Territory.
For, on show is the ‘Minicoy Festival,’ being organised by the Centre for Action Research on Environment Science and Society (CARESS)-a Chennai-based NGO, Maliku Development Society, Minicoy, Maliku Hikimas Producers’ Society, Minicoy and the CGH Earth Group of Hotels, as part of the ongoing conservation Enterprise and Livelihoods programme in Minicoy.
Visitors can get to experience Minicoy culture, cuisine, handicrafts, games as well as a variety of fish and coconut-based products. One of the major attractions of this event is the chance to sample the unique cuisine of Minicoy to your fill. Prepared in the traditional manner by the Minicoyans, these delicacies range from appetisers to a sumptuous meal.
For those keen on handicrafts, there is much in store – miniature jahaadhonis (snakeboats used to tow sailing boats) as well as dathuru odis (sea vessels that once linked Minicoy and Kannur as well as GalleGalle and Rangoon) – are on display for sale.
All in all, a must-see for die-hard foodies and culture vultures, who happen to be in Kochi at the moment.
The pearl of the orient
Published February 15, 2008 | 
Kochi, February 15
Lakshadweep Islands with its mysterious and white sandy beaches greets you into a new world of unspoilt beauty. This group of coral island comforting on the Arabian Sea is fringed by swaying palm leaves and fresh water lagoons, bathe under abundant sunshine Lakshadweep has a lot more to unravel. Loctaed just 200-400km from Kerala this island beauty is untouched by industrialization, chirping birds, frothy brooks and random waves invigorate the atmosphere with natural sounds that are soothing to the ear as to the mind.
The destination which engulfs all the natural splendours in one place, decorated with the pleasant presence of sun, sea and sand. Lakshadweep is such a place which dazzles in the colours of its serene 36 coral islands. The sandy beaches and blue waters are the soul of this heavenly abode, this distinctive place is ideal for a memorable holiday or vacation.
Located in the proximity of Kerala, Lakshadweep treasures all the richness of nature in its vast bounty of its dotted coastline. The white sandy beaches fringed by swaying palm tress and water lagoons give the place an exotic look. Lakshadweep Island still remains virgin with any artificial modifications disturbing its beauty. The island reefs abound with many species of fish and underwater animals moving freely in the blue water. There are many pristine accommodation bases in Lakshadweep to serve visitors with all facilities.
Lakshadweep offers a wide selection of beaches to unwind amidst all the natural treats. The Bangaram Island with its sun kissed beach and fresh water lagoons is a right place to indulge in adventure sports. One can go for snorkelling, scuba diving, fishing, and few other activities to get the most of the place. The Kavaratti Island, another gorgeous beach stand up as the headquarters of the Lakshadweep administration, Kavaratti is one the most developed beaches, another feature of this beach is it’s the home to 52 mosques. The famous Ujra mosque is know for the magical water of the well which is believed to cure their ailments. There are glass bottomed boats and also aquatic museum which gives a great insight to the abundance sea life of Lakshadweep.
If you are a diving enthusiast then Kadamat Island is the right place for you ideal place for all water activities. Other that the other island of Lakshadweep are Kalpeni Island, Minicoy Island and Agatti Island which is the gateway to start of the wonderful journey to Lakshadweep. It houses the airport, which operates regular flights from Kochi opening doors for all those who wish to enjoy the pleasant and mesmerising experience of Lakshadweep.
Getting here: By air one can fly from Kochi to Agatti, 1.5hrs journey by Indian and Kingfisher the two airlines which connects the island, cost for one comes around Rs 5000 (one way). By sea from Kochi to Agatti, Bangaram, Minicoy takes 18-20hrs, can be booked through Lakshadweep tourism board.
Best time to visit: From October to March
Language spoken: Malayalam and Mahl