"Cruising Backwaters: Vega 2 Boat Journey Ep-2 from Pathiramanal Island to Alleppey via 'R' Block"

Episode- 2 from Pathiramanal Island to Allepey via 'R' Block.
Date- 12-06-2024.
Operated by Kerala's State Waterways Transport Department.
Fare in Non AC compartment- 400 INR.
Fare in AC compartment- 600 INR.
Food- 100 INR (excluded from the ticket).
The video is muted between 30:22 and 30:39, and 36:56 and 39:00 due to copyright issues. Apologies for the compromised sound. The music or song was not added manually by me; someone else was playing it on his/her mobile, and it was inadvertently captured in the video. Please ignore these minor flaws and enjoy the full video. Thank you for your understanding.
Interesting Highlights from the episode:
0:28 - In a conversation with boat crew member Midhulesh in Malayalam, he guides me on where I can walk through Pathiramanal Island and instructs me to return to the boat before 1:30 pm.
1:27 - Here I begin a short stroll through Pathiramanal Island.
7:03 - Speaking with boat crew member Joshy, I inquire about similar tourist boat services in Kollam's backwaters. He informs me that another tourist boat, "See Ashtamudi," operates from Kollam and cruises through Munroe Island and Ashtamudi Lake.
8:09 - Refreshments are served aboard the boat at Pathiramanal Island.
8:19 - The boat starts its journey from Pathiramanal Island.
10:00 onwards - I explain to Midhulesh the comfort and convenience provided by the Vega-2 boat. While many middle-class tourists opt for government-operated services between Kottayam and Alleppey, I highlight Vega-2's spectacular views, refreshments, and affordable ticket prices.
14:52 - We approach Zuri Resort and Kottayam Sailing Club in Kumarakom, passing through the scenic Kumarakom village.
16:00 - Zuri Resort, Kumarakom village.
16:18 - Kottayam Sailing Club, where my family and I recently stayed for a family event just weeks before this boat journey.
18:21 - In conversation with Midhulesh, I ask about weekend patronage. He mentions the boat runs packed on weekends and shares it has been operational for three years, successfully attracting crowds.
19:14 - Inside the air-conditioned compartment.
19:24 - A view of the boat's front, showcasing serene backwaters and lush greenery, typical of Kerala's natural beauty.
23:46 - Approaching a massive river junction, I converse with Akshay about the picturesque surroundings and upcoming sights.
26:11 - Approaching another river junction, we enjoy serene waters and picturesque views of Kerala's backwaters.
27:30 - First sighting of a speedboat zipping through the backwaters, blending modernity with Kerala's traditional landscape.
28:01 - Navigating into the expansive open waters, anticipating an encounter with a speedboat on our tranquil journey.
30:24 - Two majestic houseboats crisscross paths, enhancing the scenic backdrop of Kerala's tranquil backwaters.
31:13 onwards - The thrilling encounter with a speedboat as it passes our vessel, adding excitement to our journey.
34:34 - Approaching Alleppey.
36:42 - Returning to SWTD Alleppey, concluding our anticipated voyage through serene backwaters. An enjoyable experience for both myself and Akshay, filled with scenic views and memorable encounters.
39:33 - Greeting Midhulesh and Joshy.
40:13 - As Episode 2 concludes, we disembark at SWTD boat jetty in Alleppey. Arranging an autorickshaw for Akshay Deshpande, we abandon plans for coffee due to fatigue. Akshay heads to Alleppey railway station while I proceed to the bus station, heading home to Kottayam. Thank you for watching, stay tuned for more thrilling journeys ahead.
#Vega2Boat
#AllepeyBackwaters
#TravelKeralaBackwaters
#VembanadBackwaters
#SWTDKerala

[@smalltowntraveller]

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