Backwaters of Kerala

Backwaters is a special feature of God’s own country – Kerala and always remain one of top priorities in tourists’ itinerary. Kerala backwaters are located close to the sea, comprise of a network of canals, lakes, lagoons and deltas. The backwaters manily receive water from the sea waves that travel beyond the shoreline, in addition, monsoons also contribute in maintaining the water level. The boat cruise across the backwaters is the ideal way to explore the Kerala backwaters. The houseboats locally called ‘Kettuvalloms’ is used to explore the backwaters. While on boat cruise you can see the fishing communities, aquatic life and many waterbird species including rare birds. Besides, the lush vegetation lined with coconut and palm groves add more to your cruising experience. Some of the famous backwaters of Kerala include :

Alleppey Backwaters - A picturesque coastal township, Alleppey is criss-crossed by a network of canals and lagoons. Often referred to as the 'Venice of East', Alleppey has a special place in the maritime history of Kerala. A boat cruise on the Alleppey backwaters is once in a lifetime experience. One can also enjoy one night cruise on the backwaters, which is a wonderful experience. The boat cruise takes you through the clear waters of the Punnamada Lake. Apart from backwaters, Alleppey has other attractions as well namely the 400 year old Champakkulam church, Chavara Bhavan, Ambalappuzha temple and the Alleppey Beach.

Kottayam backwaters - One of the most exotic backwater destinations in Kerala, Kottayam is called as the 'land of lakes, latex and letters.'Also famous for its toddy tappers, Kottayam is interspersed with a network of canals and lakes. A boat cruise from Alleppey through Kottayam backwaters will certainly spellbound you. You may go on one night houseboat trip that takes you across the Punnamada lake, the venue for the popular Nehru trophy snake boat race. While on cruise you can see amazing sights like paddy being grown many feet below sea level. In fact, you can even enjoy angling with the rods provided on your request. Toddy tappers place and Vembanad Lake are other attraction in Kottayam.

Kumarakom Backwaters - Situated 10 km from Kottayam, Kumarakom is a small village known for its tranquil backwaters. With mangrove forests and coconut grooves dotting the banks of the waterways, Kumarakom offers a paradise like look. Though Kumarakom appears like a cluster of islands, but in reality is just one island formed due to the backwaters. For an exhilarating experience take a boat cruise from Alleppey to Kumarakom. En-route you will wonderful sights like women fishing with their toes or in the night you can see fishermen with torches gliding over the dark waters. As you pass the Ashtamudi lake, you can see interesting species of water birds like the wild duck, waterfowl etc. Some of the interesting sights in and around Kumarakom are Punnamada lake, Champakkulam Church, 11th Century Buddha Image, Chavara Bhavan and Ancient Ambalappuzha temple.

Kochi Backwaters - Referred as the commercial capital of Kerala, Kochi or Cochin is also a famous backwater destination in the state. The backwater stretch in Kochi is a very beautiful as the palm trees line the banks and spread across the islands. You can go for a backwater cruise in Kochi that covers the famous islands such as Bolgatty, Vyppin, Gundu and Vallarpadam. The backwater cruise in Kochi is filled with rich experience of the places and other attractions. Mattancherry Palace, St.Francis Church, Marine Drive and Shiva Temple are other attractions of Kochi.

Kollam Backwaters - A coastline district, Kollam lies about 71 kms from capital city Trivandrum. Situated close to the famous Ashtamudi lake, Kollam is renowned for its Cashew industry and historical monuments. Besides, Kollam is also known for picturesque backwaters. With lush green vegetation and crystal clear water, Kollam backwaters make the gateway to the beautiful backwaters of Kerala. A boat cruise trip from Alleppey to Kollam provide a wonderful chance to observe the nature at its best. En-route you will see the shores lined with tropical trees providing shelter to many exotic bird species like cuckoos, egrets, ducks, etc. The water is also provides a natural habitat for water plants like water lilies and lotus.