Backwaters in Kerala

Backwaters in Kerala is a network of 1500 km of canals both manmade and natural, 38 rivers and 5 big lakes extending from one end of Kerala to the other. Backwaters is one of the major tourism product of Kerala, being unique to the state. Traditionally used as one of the main transportation alleys, today backwaters offer a rejuvenating experience for tourists visiting Kerala.

The backwaters can be explored by hiring a boat for one or several days. If you go for more than a day, the boat usually comes with a navigator and a cook, which provide you with various facilities when exploring the backwaters.

As you will slowly make your way into the waters paradise the waves will seem to lap faster than your racing heartbeat, the beauty of the Kerala backwaters will slowly descend upon you. Backwaters of Kerala being the most popular tourist’s hotspot remains crowed with nature lovers, avid travelers and specifically the honeymooners. The backwaters are a chain of brackish lagoons, lakes and rivers that adorn the lush beauty of the state of Kerala and its vicinities. Some of the most popular backwaters of Kerala are Alappuzha, Kumarakom, Kochi, Kollam, Kozhikode and Trivandrum Backwaters which possess their own beauty and gorgeousness. Crowds of travelers are seen at the banks eagerly waiting for the houseboats to take them on a journey to the ever gleaming backwaters of Kerala which sparkle and chaotically dance around in the day and flow at night in a serpentine manner. Kerala backwaters offer the travelers with the most memorable journeys of their lifetime. 

Houseboats

Kerala houseboats - locally known as kettuvallams - are integral part of the vast expanse of waterways and form the backbone of Kerala backwater tourism. Traditionally these rice barges served the purpose of transportation of locals as well as for ferrying goods like spices and rice from paddy fields to market town and ports. Today these beautiful crafts serve as most popular mode of transportation for tourists and also serve as accommodation in form of Kerala houseboats.

They are available on hire for fixed rates (varies according to the season). The package usually includes tour along the backwater with stops at various place with historical or cultural importance. The menu usually includes the fresh water catch along with the seasonal sea food and Kerala vegetarian dishes. Guests who require special menus as well as vegetarian foods in certain specific styles, must inform the crew or operator office, atleast one day before the cruise. Packages include cost of food and all regular amenities. Guests can swim in the backwaters, only in the areas, authorized by houseboat crew. Most of the house-boat operates on 22 hour cruise, starting from 12:00 Noon to 10:00 AM next day. The houseboats will be anchored from evening 8:00 pm onwards and morning 06:00 am next day, as government laws prohibit night movements due to tidal waves and remoteness of areas. Now a days, house-boats are available for 8 hour cruise package for larger crowds, who do-not prefer staying over-night.

Places of Backwaters 

Alappuzha

If you are cherishing the idea of spending some good time amidst the sights and sounds of the hydrosphere, then step into a country boat and wind through the labyrinth of canals in Alappuzha. While cruising through these canals, one would come across the many interesting aspects of day-to-day life on land and water.

A wide range of cruise options are available here - from small country boats to luxury houseboats and small speedboats to big passenger motorboats. Small boats are preferred for cruise through the canals.

The canal networks linked to the Vembanad Lake offer an inspiring and interesting experience. Enjoy the sights of vast stretches of paddy fields, coconut lagoons and pied King Fishers hurtling down to catch the fish. You would also come across small islands, locals engaged in fishing activities on country boats, children being ferried to schools and kettuvallams, the majestic rice barges, gliding over the canals. Another interesting sight is that of large flocks of ducks being shepherded to newly-harvested paddy fields.

You could also drop in at villages on the banks to check out the techniques and procedures of coir making. It's also a chance to try out the ethnic cuisine from local eateries. Tapioca and fish delicacies and coconut toddy, the natural beverage extracted from coconut trees, are the highlights of backwater cuisine.

If you are in Kerala, don't miss a cruise through the canals of Alappuzha. Boats can be hired from the jetty, close to the KSRTC bus station. 

Getting there 

Nearest railway station: Nearest railway station: Alappuzha, a few kilometres away. 

Nearest airport: Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, about 85 km. 

Alappuzha - Kochi

Are you a bit tired of walking to explore God's Own Country? How about a backwater cruise, enjoying the comfort of a luxurious houseboat? You can hire one from Alappuzha. Feel free and relaxed as your eyes, first lazily and then passionately enjoy the bewitching Vembanad Lake, the largest backwater stretch in Kerala.

Let us steer towards Kumarakom, one of the prime tourist attractions of Kerala. En route, Vembanad Lake offers you sights of backwater village life and a lot of backwater activities. The green shores throbbing with vigour and pure beauty will never tire you. The soft sunlight lends the calm water a new enchantment as the palms on both shores welcome you with a gentle whisper in the wind. Your mind will assure you that this scene will remain within you, to relieve you during all your busiest hours.

Once you enter Q S T and R Block Kayal, it is an added enchantment. It is situated at Kuttanad, popularly known as the rice bowl of Kerala. Cruise leisurely through the canals, which are fringed by palm groves and paddy fields.

On reaching Kumarakom, you enter another world of wonders. This small backwater village, which is a cluster of islands, has a life of its own, with a slow, serene rhythm. The sights, sounds and fragrances will simply captivate you.

After staying back at Kumarakom for a bit and relaxing, you may proceed to Vaikom. It is time again to enjoy the placidity of the Vembanad Lake, in all its splendor. On the way, you will find a small island, Pathiramanal, seemingly afloat in the middle of the backwater. Have a brief stop and your guide can share with you many interesting myths surrounding this region.

On resuming your journey, the next halt point for you is Thanneermukkom, a village known for its Salt Water Barrier, popularly known as Thanneermukkom Bund. It is the largest mud regulator in India. Travelling through this region and savoring some delicious Kerala snacks is a simply marvelous experience.

Your next backwater destination - Vaikom offers you many interesting sights and lifestyles. You may find here the specimens of Kerala's grand tradition. A famous temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is the prime attraction of this town. The refreshing greenery here is another add-on for you.

From Vaikom, after recharging with a delicious Kerala meal, you may proceed to Kumbalangi. We travel via Thykkattussery, a small village surrounded by coconut groves and paddy fields, enchanting constituents of backwater life. The first sight that welcomes you to Kumbalangi is that of majestic Chinese fishing nets lining the sides of the backwaters. Pokkali cultivation, a traditional indigenous method of cultivation in which the practice of taking a paddy crop is followed by prawn filtration, is a unique farming practice at Kumbalangi.

Once through the breezy backwaters of Kumbalangi, it is time for us to proceed to Fort Kochi, known for its share of Chinese fishing nets and many historic sites. The place is worth a walk, if you would like to. However, the sights from on board are also fascinating.

Bidding adieu to Fort Kochi, let us steer towards the Bolghatty Island, our final destination. En route to the Bolghatty Island, you would pass by the panoramic view of the mainland of Ernakulam city, its skyline and the shipyard on the eastern side. Once in Bolghatty, it is time for us to unwind. Loosen yourself to the soothing cool breeze and the reassuring touch of serene sunlight. 

Getting there 

Nearest railway station: Alappuzha

Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, about 85 km from Alappuzha Town 

Alumkadavu, Kollam

Alumkadavu is where the first houseboats in India were built. Located north of Kollam district, the waft of coir and wood is always in the air of this village. And the reason: It is a major centre for the construction of kettuvalloms (traditional rice barges) which are later modified into houseboats for travellers.

The houseboats eventually take shape at the hands of skilled craftsmen of the village, who make sue of local and eco-friendly materials like wood, bamboo poles and coconut fibre.

Alumkadavu is also a coir manufacturing centre, making Kollam famous for its coir products. 

Getting there 

Nearest railway station: Karunagappally railway station, about 5 km away.

Nearest airport: Trivandrum International Airport, about 95 km away.

Backwater stretches of Ashtamudi

So called because of its 8 arms or channels, Ashtamudi Lake is the gateway to the backwaters. This 16 km long lake is the second largest in Kerala, finding its way into the sea through the Neendakara estuary. The District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC) Kollam provides boat rides as well as houseboat cruises. The trip between Kollam and Alappuzha is one of the most popular and longest backwater cruises in Kerala. The eight-hour journey will give you an intimate experience of the famed waterways. Catch a glimpse of one of the many splendours of Ashtamudi backwaters. As the boatman gently dips his paddle, without disturbing the prevailing calm, the ripples spread out gently in the shimmering golden hue of the sun. 

Getting there 

Nearest railway station: Kollam Junction, about 2 km

Nearest airport: Trivandrum International Airport, about 70 km

Kumarakom

The village of Kumarakom is a cluster of little islands on the Vembanad Lake, and is part of the Kuttanad region. The bird sanctuary here, which is spread across 14 acres is a favourite haunt of migratory birds and an ornithologist's paradise. Egrets, darters, herons, teals, waterfowls, cuckoo, wild duck and migratory birds like the Siberian Stork visit here in flocks and are a fascinate the visitors.

An enchanting backwater destination, Kumarakom offers visitors many other leisure options. Boating and fishing facilities are available at the Taj Garden Retreat, a sprawling old bungalow-turned-resort.

Waterscapes, the backwater resort of the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation has independent cottages built on stilts, set amidst coconut groves and panoramic view of the backwaters. Holiday packages involving houseboats, traditional Kettuvalloms (rice barges) offer great experiences. 

Getting there 

Nearest railway station: Kottayam, about 13 km

Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, about 94 km 

Marine Drive - Kochi

Marine Drive in Kochi, is a popular hangout and this scenic stretch offers a spectacular view of the backwaters and the Kochi Harbour. 

Getting there 

Nearest railway station: Ernakulam, about 3 km

Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, about 29 km 

Sasthamkotta - Kollam

Sasthamkotta, situated about 29 km from Kollam town, can be rightly called the 'Queen of Lakes'. This vast fresh water lake flanked by hills on three sides is the largest of its kind in Kerala. The ancient Sastha Temple, which lends its name to the town, is an important pilgrim centre. This temple dedicated to both Lord Ganesha and Lord Ayyappa is surrounded by hills and forests, and the monkeys inhabiting the premises are considered holy. The monkeys of Sasthamkotta are believed to be the faithful entourage of the ruling deity, the Dharmasastha and therefore they have a spiritual ambience about them. The monkeys are devotee-friendly, and the thousands of devotees visiting the temple take pleasure in feeding these monkeys with nuts and fruits. 

Getting there 

Nearest railway station: Kollam, about 29 km

Nearest airport: Trivandrum International Airport, about 71 km 

Vembanad Lake - Kumarakom

Kottayam is a vast network of rivers and canals which empty into the great expanse of water called the Vembanad Lake. The lake, an enchanting picnic spot and a fast developing backwater tourism destination, provides boating, fishing and sightseeing experiences that are truly exhilarating. The Kumarakom Tourist Village offers houseboat cruises and holiday packages. The serene lake comes alive during Onam with a spectacular water regatta - the snake boat races. It is indeed amazing to watch oarsmen, at least a hundred in one boat, slice their way through the waters to the fast rhythm of their own full throated singing. 

Getting there 

Nearest railway station: Kottayam, about 13 km 

Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, about 63 km