The Chinese Fishing Nets, also known as Cheena Vala, stand along the waterfront at Fort Kochi Beach in Kochi, Kerala. These giant cantilevered nets are among the most recognisable sights in the city, and they have become a symbol of Kochi itself.
The nets are large structures that extend out over the water on wooden poles and counterweights. They are operated by fishermen, who lower and raise them to catch fish from the backwaters. Their unusual shape gives the shoreline a distinctive look, and they make a picturesque backdrop, especially in the early morning and at sunset when the light falls across the water.
What to expect on a visit
- A short walk along the waterfront at Fort Kochi Beach, where the nets can be seen from close range.
- The chance to watch the fishing process, which is often most active at certain times of the day.
- Photography, as the nets form a striking silhouette against the sky and water.
Because the nets sit on an open beach, the visit is best treated as an easy outdoor stop rather than a long excursion. Most visitors combine it with a stroll through the surrounding area of Fort Kochi, which has its own streets, waterfront views and places to eat.
If you enjoy watching working scenes of local life, or simply want a memorable image of Kochi, the Chinese Fishing Nets are well worth a visit.
