Bamboo huts and coracles are the main attractions at Njarackal fisheries farm in Vypeen.

KOCHI: Vypeen, which has a number of unique tourism projects, is becoming a popular offbeat tourism destination.

The recently-launched tourism initiative at Njarackal fisheries farm has increased the inflow of tourists, with over 6,000 tourists visiting the farm in the previous month.

“As there is a huge rush of tourists even during weekdays, a new package has been introduced. The package allows families to spend an entire day at the bamboo huts for Rs 350 per person and it includes lunch and evening tea. Earlier, it was Rs 200 per person for three hours. Phone number of an assistant worker in-charge is also provided to families so that they can contact him for help while at the hut,” said Nisha P, unit head of Njarackal and Malippuram fisheries farms.

While bamboo huts and coracles are the main attraction at Njarackal, Malippuram fish farm offers fish jumping sights during speed boating and mangrove parks .

“There are no other fish farms in the state which offers the experience of fish jumping while speed boating. As it is just under 15km from the city, local people also come in large numbers for short getaways. There are many other tourist destinations around the farm as well, like Chaappa beach and Puthuvype lighthouse,” Nisha added.

Tourism activities centring on beaches have taken an interesting turn in Vypeen with water sports getting a new push at Cherai. The district tourism promotion council has given approval for catamaran rides, kayaking, speed boating, water skiing, kneeboarding and wind surfing at Cherai beach.

“An official launch is on the cards, with more advanced rides and equipment for tourists. A full-fledged water sports system will be in place by December,” said Rajeev Thennattil, Cherai Water Sports official.

