Muziris Backwater Paddle, the two-day kayaking expedition organised by Jellyfish Watersports in partnership with Muziris Heritage Project (Kerala Tourism) was held on January 4 and 5, 2020. Over 100 paddlers participated in the event which was flagged off from the Kotturpuram Jetty in Kodungalloor district and end at Bolgatty Island in Kochi. Paddlers covered an overall distance of 40 km traversing through backwaters and important Muziris Heritage destinations en route. Each day they covered an easy distance of 20 km with several fun breaks for sightseeing and to meet the locals.

The starting point Muziris, once a bustling seaport and the heart of the historic spice route used to be the key trade point between southern India and rest of the world. The region is dotted with numerous monuments of a bygone era that is more than 3,000 years old. Participants got an opportunity to visit the legendary Muziris heritage sites on the way. The paddling event promotes the usage of our rivers for recreational usage and creates a connection to the river with youngsters and tourists.

“We think it’s a great idea to combine watersports with conservation. Muziris backwater paddle has been promoting water sports activities like kayaking, SUPing, sailing and canoeing, by bringing together people from all walks of life and ages. The event targets domestic and international tourists, paddling enthusiasts, people from all walks of life, senior citizens, children and even non-swimmers. You preserve what you love and paddling lets people build a strong bond with water bodies, with nature,” Kaushiq Kodithodi, Founder Jellyfish Watersports.

The entire expedition was managed by Jellyfish Watersports and participants learned skills from expert trainers and river guides. The package included Kayak rental, expert guidance, camping gears, lifeguard support, night camping, team activities and authentic Kerala delicacies and refreshments.

Muziris Paddle is touted as Kerala’s most incredible nature experiences, for it lets people immerse in pure, raw nature. Not just that it’s making people bond with water bodies and develop a sense of belonging. Paddle to preserve being the motto, Jellyfish aims at converting paddlers into eco-warriors, by strengthening the connection with nature. The paddlers have been spreading the message of responsible travel as they work towards a plastic negative event and clean the water body, while they paddle.