Chinese Fishing Nets Tourism

The Chinese Fishing Nets of Kochi, located in the Indian state of Kerala, are a distinctive symbol of Kochi's shoreline, prominently visible against the backdrop of the sunset. These nets, known locally as 'Cheena vala,' are fixed land installations for an unusual form of fishing — shore operated lift nets. Historically, these nets are believed to have been introduced by Chinese explorers under the leadership of Kublai Khan, though some accounts suggest they were brought by Portuguese settlers from Macau. The nets are set up on bamboo and teak poles and held horizontally by huge mechanisms, which lower them into the sea. They require a team of fishermen to operate, providing a unique cultural experience. The whole mechanism is an elegant balance of weights, which dips the nets into the water and raises them with the catch. This fishing technique is eco-friendly as it prevents the capture of juvenile fish. The sight of the huge nets against the evening sky makes for a picturesque scene, attracting scores of tourists who visit the Fort Kochi beach to witness this blend of beauty and functionality.