When you plan your next trip to Kochi, do not forget to book a show on the floating koothambalam showcasing a number of traditional and cultural art forms.
A koothambalam, or a temple theatre, is a closed hall for staging Koothu, Nangiar koothu and Koodiyattam, ancient ritualistic art forms of Kerala.
Kochi has always been worthy of praise when it comes to jaw-dropping destinations and sightseeing. The only thing missing from the city of abundant natural resources was a floating koothambalam on the sea.
Set to be completed by the month of August, this new tourism and pefromance arts centre will be located near the international cruise terminal of Wellingdon Island.
You can book your shows near the tourism jetty of the Marine Drive.
The theatre has been designed in the typical traditional structure of a koothambalam that has a built-in temple and a ritual arts stage.
The koothambalam, which can hold 300 people, will be anchored on the sea shore when performances are being showcased. It can also sail through Kerala's famous backwaters.
The art forms of Tholpavakooth, Koodiyattom and Theyyam will be performed at an interval of 40 minutes.
Discussions are on to change the surroundings as well. In a few months, visitors can walk through a marine aquarium, shop from an emporium of handicrafts, and relax at a cafeteria.