Traditional chinese fishing nets in Kochi, India at sunrise.

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Tools waiting for their harvest. Chinese fishing nets in Kochi, India

As a traditional occupation in India, fishing is woven deeply into the country's cultural and economic fabric. This is vividly exemplified in Kochi, a bustling coastal city in the southern state of Kerala. Known as the 'Queen of the Arabian Sea', its maritime heritage continues to be important for the residents.

At the heart of this tradition are the Chinese fishing nets, locally referred to as 'Cheena vala.' These are meticulously crafted nets, framed by colossal wooden beams that extend over the water, counterbalanced by large stones suspended from ropes. As visitors wander along the coastline, these Chinese fishing nets, offer a glimpse into its history and act an essential stop for anyone seeking to explore this coastal gem.