Kerala

Kerala Backwaters

The scenic backwaters of Kerala comprise serene stretches of lakes, canals and lagoons located parallel to the coast of the Arabian Sea. The backwater regions of Kerala are one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. The tranquil backwater cruises are a once in a lifetime experience. Alappuzha, known as the 'Venice of the East', is especially popular for its houseboat cruises where you can soak in nature at its finest form.

Alleppey Backwaters - Largest Network of Kerala Backwaters
The most famous canal networks in Kerala, Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha is a green paradise and our number one choice when it comes to backwaters. The stretch of Alleppey Backwater lies 62 km south of Kochi, nestled in captivating greenery, paddy fields, coconut plantations and beautiful islands. Alleppey Backwaters form the ideal romantic honeymoon destination for people across the nation as it provides an enchanting environment for couples. Houseboat rides give perfect views like a cluster of birds flying in the backdrop of everything blue and green, and the wooden house floating between the trees.

Kumarakom Backwaters
For those who seek solace, the cluster of islands in the backwaters of Kerala provides just that and Kumarakom Backwaters happen to be one such place. Snuggled on the biggest freshwater lake in Kerala, Vembanad Lake is a heavenly abode. The stunning backwaters make it a delight watching birds like kingfishers, darters, and turns. It is a great place to have a peaceful village walk while the sun sets in the background to end with a Romantic candlelight dinner.

Kuttanad, Allapuzha
Kuttanad is known as the rice bowl of Kerala. The unique feature of this backwater is that it lies between land and sea. The view of the lush paddy field is ineffable. It has also adopted an indigenous agricultural engineering technique for agriculture. Indulge in tasty authentic seafood and fascinating local culture. Located in the heart of the Allepey district, this place is famous for boat races that are conducted during September concerning the state festival, Onam.

Kollam Backwaters
Presently known as Quilon, the Kollam backwater is the gateway to few other backwaters in Kerala was a prominent trade canter for Portuguese, Arabia, Greece, Rome and China in exporting sandalwood, spices, coir and ivory. Estimated to be the longest backwater in Kerala, this is a must-explore stretch for its natural beauty and boat riding. It has derived its name from the eight channels which form the Ashtamudi Backwaters. Ashtamudi Lake is the largest lake in Kerala (16 km) and is also known to be a gateway to the backwaters of Kerala. It also happens to be the largest wetland ecosystem in Kerala. Enjoy the fantastic views of the sparkling backwaters in solace, while the boat moves very slowly without disturbing the calmness of the lake.

Thiruvallam Backwaters
With the Arabian Sea in the West and the pristine Western Ghats in the east, these backwaters are quite close to the beautiful Thiruvallam, Velli and Kovalam. There are many places in the streets of Poovar where you could negotiate and book houseboats. Don't forget to stop by the serene Lighthouse beach, Neyar river estuary and Pieta church. Thiruvallam backwaters lay around 6 km from Trivandrum, the capital of Kerala. Sree Parasurama Temple in Thiruvallam is a highly revered place of religious importance. Veli lake and the Veli tourist village are some of the most popular upcoming tourist attractions with a lot of floating restaurants and all kinds of boating facility. The park near Akkulam Lake in Thiruvallam is considered to be the largest in Kerala and a dear one to all the tourists.

Kavvayi Backwaters
Kavvayi backwaters are formed by the cluster of islands on River Kavvayi in the north of Kerala. It is different from other South backwater attractions regarding commercialisation, sights, livelihood and houseboat culture. No Cruises are available on this side of the state, but you can easily visit these backwaters on a shikhara or a canoe or opt for a motorboat ride. This site has no less to offer and gives you a happy feeling with the lush green backdrop, an excellent variety of flora and fauna, a myriad of small and big islands and so much more which keeps your interest flowing.

Kozhikode Backwaters
Kozhikode backwaters are virgin and unspoiled backwaters that provide the visitors to explore the nature’s beauty at its best. The palm-fringed rivulets, lakes, and canals offer the guests with perfect houseboat cruising. Explore the picturesque backwater while sailing on a houseboat, observe majestic surroundings and enjoy the tranquil soothing effect of the enchanting backwaters. While cruising along the Kerala backwaters, one can discover the fascinating countryside spilled across the countryside of God’s own country. The Kozhikode backwaters are enchanting as they are decked up with the engaging beauty of deltas, rivers, and lakes.

Thrissur Backwaters
Tour the Kerala backwaters, an offbeat travel locale giving tough competition to the Alleppey backwaters. Carrying a photogenic aura, this destination lets you capture the vivid scenes in the scattered rays. This is a stop offering an insight to the local as well as the touch of modern Kerala.