The Chinese Fishing nets, known as ‘Cheenavala’ in Malayalam is the specialty of Kochi. Many places have these Chinese fishing nets, but it is the cultural seal of Kochi to the tourists. The origin of these nets is not known, but it is known that these nets were brought to India by Chinese explorer Zheng He. Though these nets are used in China and Indochina, they are mostly used in Indian cities like Kochi and Kollam. This fishing method is unusual in India and unique in this region. The Chinese fishing nets works on the simplest physics that, the side which balances the weight goes up and down depending on its weight. Traditionally these are made of Teak. The system where these fishing nets are placed is 10m tall. These are fixed in an area, and can catch fish only in a stable area. These nets are managed by five or six fishermen. The Chinese fishing nets also known as Cheenavali is the main attraction in Kochi for centuries. Due to the modern fishing methods these Chinese fishing nets have ceased to exist. The Chinese fishing nets are mainly found in Vembanad, Ashttamudi, Fort Kochi, and Vypin Island. The Chinese fishing nets have become a popular tourist destination. Beautiful lights are hanged on this system to attract fishes at night, and is an amazing view at night time. The shape and size of these nets are photogenic. The Chinese fishing nets in Fort Kochi is a main tourist destination in Kerala.
Chinese fishing nets Fort Kochi
