Kadamakkudy is an ethereal small archipelago that is a hidden gem of nature in the middle of the Vembanad lake. The Kadamakkudy islands, which are replete with ‘chemmeen kettu’ (shrimp farms) and ‘pokkali’ (a variety of paddy) paddy farms, are a perfect weekend getaway. These magical isles are situated just 8km from Kochi and a 15-minute drive from the city would take you there. If you want to put your feet up and be away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Kadamakkudy is the perfect destination for you.
The tales behind Kadamakkudy
Kadamakkudy is said as a place where if you reach, you are in a fix (‘kadanaal kudungi’). And it was true and not an exaggeration in olden days. Then the transportation facilities to the tiny islands were not at all good. It is said that the Kadamakkudy isles crystallized at a time when the Kochi estuary was formed in the 1341 deluge. As, obviously, the island was surrounded on four sides by water, the residents of the isles earlier used boats to reach the mainland. Later when roads were laid, the tourism opportunities of Kadamakkudy came to the fore.
Cluster of 14 islands
Kadamakkudy is a small archipelago consisting of 14 tiny islands. The 14 scenic isles are Valiya Kadamakkudy, Murrikkal, Palayamthuruthu, Pizhala, Cheriya Kadamakkudy, Pulikkapuram, Moolampilly, Puthussery, Chariyamthuruthu, Chennur, Kothadu, Korambadam, Kandanadu and Kadanadu. Valiya Kadamakkudy is the main island in the cluster.
Mesmerizing sunset and long gentle walk
The sunrise and sunset views at Kadamakkudy are out-of-the-world, to say the least. The Valiya Kadamakkudy and Cheriya Kadamakkudy islands are known for the best sunrise and sunset vistas among the tourists. There are scores of tourists who come to these two isles to see the nature’s spectacle in the morning and evening. To facilitate unhindered view of the sunrise and sunset, there are many ‘erumadams’ (tree houses) on the islands. You can go on a boating spree when the first sun rays kiss the placid waters of the lake. You can also take a leisurely stroll through the expansive ‘pokkali’ paddy fields. If you are a bird watcher, Kadamakkudy is the right place for you as the islands are a repository of migratory birds. You can also try your hand at angling.
A paradise for foodies
You should visit Kadamakkudy if you are a foodie. What about a meal with hot white rice, prawn curry, ‘karimeen pollichathu’ (pearl spot) and crab roast? You can’t ask for more, isn’t it? Kadamakkudy, undoubtedly, is a paradise for gourmets. You can also taste fresh sweet toddy.
Star of social media
Kadamakkudy recently became a go-to place for the tourists. Most people visit this surreal tourist spot after reading about or seeing photos of these captivating isles on social media. Kadamakkudy is the favourite hunting ground of photographers and newly-wedded couples who come for photo shoots. The isles became a sought-after tourist spot as it is very easy to reach Kadamakkudy from Kochi.
