Kerala Tourism | Oceanarium in Kochi

India’s first Oceanarium in Puthuvypeen, Kochi

country’s first Oceanarium, fisheries tourism, Kerala Government, Marine Biological Research Centre, oceanarium complex, Oceanarium in Kochi, Puthuvypeen, State Fisheries Management Society

As part of promoting ‘fisheries tourism’, Kerala Government has initiated a proposal to set up a Rs350 crore Oceanarium in Kochi, the country’s first, to enable a thrilling experience for people and researchers to study marine species, including large ones like whales and sharks, and habitat at a closer level. This oceanarium project, which is slated to come up on 40 acres of land along the coast at Puthuvypeen in the city.

The proposed project, to be set up on a public-private partnership model, is expected to soon shortlist bidders for its project, after the shortlist is complete, project would be awarded through a competitive bidding process.

The project, an initiative by the State Fisheries Management Society, is expected to turn into a major tourist attraction in Kochi.

The project envisages the setting up of a fourth generation Oceanarium. It is aimed at creating awareness about the marine environment and its bio-diversity.

Tourists could get the feel of walking on the sea bed getting a clear view of the spectacular water world. The main tank is meticulously planned to reflect the various aspects of the world beneath the ocean. Reef, rock and weed structures are reproduced to create a pleasant environment and a natural habitat for the marine species that will make it their home.

Apart from commercial activities, the oceanarium will have tie up with Indian Universities and Marine Biological Research Centre in order to undertake marine research projects in collaboration with similar centres abroad and facilitate local research centre with opportunities to do live research projects in Marine biology and biotechnology.

The important area of the oceanarium complex will be its main tank, which house the curved acrylic tunnel through which marine life could be viewed from close range

The Marine Department have plans to set up a world standard convention centre for holding international marine conferences and seminars related to marine life studies, with a seating capacity for 1000 people, chain of restaurants, coffee houses, provisions, books and library, an amphitheatre for watching movies, a musical fountain and a food court.