Marine Drive

Marine Drive, officially known as APJ Abdul Kalam Marg, is a 3 km picturesque promenade along the backwaters of Kochi in Ernakulam district. Built on reclaimed land from Kochi Lake in the 1980s, it features three iconic bridges including the Rainbow Bridge and Chinese Fishing Net Bridge. The area serves as a popular evening hangout offering scenic sunset views, boating opportunities on Vembanad Lake, and cultural landmarks such as statues of Mahatma Gandhi and Naval Martyrs.

Visitors can expect a scenic waterfront walkway with granite benches, landscaped gardens, and three distinctive bridges illuminated at night. The promenade offers panoramic views of Kochi harbour and backwaters, with boat jetties providing access to water metro services and tourist cruises. The area includes shopping complexes, food stalls, and monuments. Evenings are particularly vibrant with locals and tourists enjoying the breeze and sunset views.

Marine Drive was developed in the 1980s by the Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) on land reclaimed from Kochi Lake, inspired by Mumbai's Marine Drive. Originally planned as a road, coastal protection laws in the 1990s led to its development as a pedestrian walkway instead. In 2015, the entire stretch was renamed APJ Abdul Kalam Marg in honor of India's former president.

The promenade holds cultural importance as a major public gathering space in Kochi, featuring monuments honoring national figures like Mahatma Gandhi and APJ Abdul Kalam. The bridges reflect local heritage, with the Chinese Fishing Net Bridge inspired by traditional Kerala fishing techniques. It serves as a social hub for evening walks and community activities.