A Day at the Bustling Vizhinjam Seaport

 

A Day at the Bustling Vizhinjam Seaport: A Kerala Adventure #Kerala #Travel #Foodie

My Kerala adventure took an exciting turn when my friend whisked me away to Vizhinjam, a vibrant seaport about 17 kilometers from our Thiruvananthapuram base. As a self-proclaimed explorer, I couldn't resist the chance to witness this unique blend of a bustling commercial harbor and a traditional fishing village.

The scene that greeted us was a photographer's dream. The harbor teemed with activity – a symphony of bobbing fishing trawlers returning with their day's bounty. As each boat docked, a flurry of local businessmen swarmed aboard, their eyes scanning the catch and their voices haggling over the freshest finds.

Here, under the warm Kerala sun, a vibrant marketplace unfolded. Surmai, seer fish, and the delectable Aiykoora were just a few of the treasures the sea had yielded. But the star of the show, as I soon learned, was the Karimeen, or Pearl Spot fish. This local favorite, known for its delicate flavor, is often prepared in traditional dishes like Karimeen fry, cooked in banana leaves. Another interesting find was the Pola Vatta, a fish revered by Malayalis as the "queen of the fishes."

The price of these aquatic treasures varied depending on the day's catch and the weather. While some claimed Vizhinjam offered bargains, others spoke of high demand pushing prices up, especially for popular varieties like the Seer fish. Yet, the sheer variety was staggering – from tuna and giant bluefin tuna to butterfish, prawns, calamari, and even lobsters.

For seafood lovers, Vizhinjam is a paradise. It's the only fish market in the nearby Kovalam region, offering a front-row seat to the fishermen's daily rituals. Witnessing their triumphant return and the lively auction process is an experience in itself. The market itself is nestled amidst lush greenery, with mosques and churches adding to the cultural tapestry. This hidden gem is perfect for those staying nearby who have access to cooking facilities. For the freshest catches, look for the smaller boats instead of the larger trawlers.

Kerala's charm goes far beyond a single visit. Numerous tour packages cater to every budget, allowing you to explore the backwaters on a houseboat, soak in the beauty of Munnar and Kovalam beaches, or experience the serenity of Periyar National Park.

So, pack your bags and prepare to be captivated by the beauty and flavors of Kerala. #GodsOwnCountry

Text and Photos by Ashok Karan, Ashokkaran.blogspot.com

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