Backwaters of Kerala

Bewitching and green, the backwaters of Kerala form the lifeblood of this coastal state that glitters like a raw emerald under the warm sun.

An extensive network of 44 rivers, blue lagoons, streams, lakes and canals that criss-cross, meet and branch out like nerves throughout Kerala, to form the exotic Kerala backwaters. Sail to delightful spots where salty seas meet fresh river waters and give birth to and sustain rare marine life.

The backwaters of Kerala sparkle and glow with purity, simplicity and raw natural beauty that allure you into narrow water canals fringed with thick leafy shrubs, dense green undergrowth and clusters of coconut palms.

Hire a houseboat and set out on an exploratory cruise that takes you past remote villages clustered around banana and coconut trees. As you sail along acres of half submerged paddy fields glowing in the warm sun, you will see bunches of water lilies float past and listen to the cormorants and water birds as you feast your eyes on the unmatched beauty of the backwaters.

In the distant past these backwaters were the most important mode of transport. Villagers used to carry local coir, coconut products, rice and farm produce to the towns and bazaars for selling. Today the backwaters serve as a holiday haven and also take you to a unique water world. Listen to the music of oars splashing against limpid waters, cackling ducks and giggling children.

Some of the popular Backwaters of Kerala are:

Alappuzha Backwaters

Showered by the Arabian Sea and interlinked by various canals and bridges, Alappuzha is renowned for the exciting Nehru Trophy Boat Race. This event is held on the second Saturday of August every year and pulls a large number of people.

Kuttanad Backwaters

Amidst the sea and the hills, Kuttanad is a wonderful maze of glittering waterways comprised of canals, lakes, rivers and rivulets. Marked with rich tropical greenery, it provides you the opportunity to catch the glimpses of rural life of Kerala. The view varies from compressed canals and thick vegetation to open vistas and amazing green paddy fields. Endless tranquility can be experienced here.

Kollam Backwaters

The mesmerizing Kerala backwaters around Kollam extend from the Ashthamudi Lake. The interesting boat rides on the sun-kissed water score high points with many tourists. The picturesque town of Kollam is known for being the gateway to the wonderful backwaters of Kerala.

Kochi Backwaters

Kochi is among the popular Kerala backwater destinations. It has many backwater cruises that start or end in Cochin. It is the natural benefit that has made Kochi a fascinating amalgamation of the cultures. Some of these spectacular islands are Bolgatty, Gundu, Vypeen and Vallarpadam.

Kottayam Backwaters

The Kottayam backwaters are known among the most exotic backwaters in Kerala. Scattered with a network of lakes and canals, Kottayam is also popular for its toddy tappers. On its western side lie the Vembanad Lake and a canal, linking the lake with Kottayam. Enjoy a halt in between and roam around the village tea shops, view the toddy tappers at work and meet the locals.

Kamarakom Backwaters

Kumarakom backwater in Kerala is a fascinating site with its beautiful bio-network. The vast paddy fields, rich mangrove forest, coconut woods and varied natural elements make it a must visit destination.

Kasargod Backwaters

This beautiful town in North Kerala is popular for the Valiyaparamba stretch of backwaters. They make it an incredibly beautiful destination along the coast of Kerala. Travel through this beautiful backwater while on the Kerala Backwaters Tour.

Trivendrum Backwaters

Capital of Kerala and an enchanting destination; Trivandrum is the starting point for your travel of Kerala backwater destinations. It is also famous for Sri Padmanabhaswamy Temple and the beautiful Kovalam beach. The main backwater areas of Trivandrum are Thiruvallam and Veli.