Kerala Backwaters

Hugely popular with tourists visiting Kerala are the backwaters created by a network of sea water, canals, lagoons and forty four rivers. The backwaters network stretches north to south over an area of 1500 km, with a higher density around Alleppey where the waters level with the land. A cruise on this stretch allows you to hop off your ‘kettuvellam’ or long boat and take a walk into the village to observe rural lifestyle more closely. The waterways of Alleppey draw a parallel with the canals of Venice, and are used as a regular mode of transport. Elsewhere too, the lightweight ‘kettuvellams’ are generally used by the locals to ferry goods across.

The Vembanad Lake at Kerala opens into the sea at Kochi and is the largest backwater stretch in the state, flowing through Alappuzha, Kottayam and Kochi districts. The Ashtamudi Lake also covers a major expanse within the district of Kollam. Kuttanad, Kerala’s rice bowl with paddy fields below sea level has backwaters running through very picturesque scenery.

These tranquil backwaters are best enjoyed in a ‘kayal’ or cruise on 60 ft long ‘kettuvallams’ which have been converted into luxury houseboats.

The major backwaters in Kerala include :

Kollam Backwaters
A virtual gateway to the amazing backwaters of Kerala, Kollam is marked for a regular ferry to Alappuzha. Offering the most intense backwater experience, this nine hour boat ride through Ashtamudi Lake is not to be missed.

Alappuzha Backwaters
With a closely interwoven network of fresh water rivers, lakes and lagoons, the Alappuzha backwaters are a must visit site in Kerala.

Kumarakom Backwaters
Thick mangrove forests, emerald paddy fields, beautiful canals filled with water lilies and vast coconut groves make the Kumarakom backwaters one of the most soothing and revitalizing cruises.

Trivandrum Backwaters
Popular for its canoe rides, virgin beaches and ancient monuments, the Trivandrum backwaters come as a real delight to travelers for the variety of activities they offer.