With over 900 kms of interrelated waterways, rivers, lakes and inlets, Kerala will take you to a mystic land of fusion. The backwater destinations in Kerala have created a world of serenity. On your Kerala backwater tour, you will see the harmonious union of the land, sea and sky. This, too beautiful to be true paradise, will take you through the green countryside, swaying palm trees, emerald rice fields. Live the traditional Keralian lifestyle with Kerala backwater. Experience a memorable voyage, by the side of the serene backwaters of Kerala.
Popular Kerala Backwater Destinations
Kerala Backwater destinations are colorful labyrinths of lazily meandering backwaters, country crafts, rural lifestyles and tranquility. Some of the most famous backwater destinations of Kerala include
Cochin Backwaters : Consisting of a cluster of islands Kochi or Cochin is known for its natural harbor. This Queen of the Arabian Sea is the main starting point for many Kerala backwater cruises.
Highlights: Chinese Fishing Nets, St Francis Church, Matancherry Palace, Jewish Synagogue, Dutch Palace etc.
Alappuzha Backwaters : Because of its surrounding beautiful waterways and canals, this Kerala backwater destination is also known as the Venice of the East. Alappuzha is also famous for The Annual Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race “Chundanvalloms”.
Highlights : Punnamada Kayal, Krishnapuram Temple, Ambalapuzha Temple, St. Andrew’s Church, Mullackal Temple, the Chettikulangara Bhagavathy Temple etc.
Kasargod Backwaters : Kozhikode was previously known as Calicut. Known for its historic buildings, beautiful green countryside, beautiful beach, hospitality and cosmopolitan culture, Kozhikode is a sheer delight for the tourists.
Highlights : Pazhassirajah Museum, Art Gallery, Beypore, Kappad Beach, Kadalundi Bird Sanctuary etc.
Thiruvananthapuram Backwaters : Dotted with pretty beaches, serene backwaters, historic temples and museums, Thiruvananthapuram Backwaters is a great place from where you can always start your Kerala backwater tour.
Highlights : Padmanabha Swamy Temple, Shanghumukhuam Beach, the Zoological Park, Kuthriramalika Palace Museum etc.
Thiruvallam Backwaters : Known for its canoe rides Thiruvallam is located just 6 Km from capital city Thiruvananthapuram. For any birdwatcher, this backwater tour is like dreams come true. Explore the wonderland of water birds, exotic flowers and unknown vegetation.
Highlights : Parashurama Temple, Veli Lagoon, Veli Tourist Village, Akulam Lake and Park, Akulam Boat Club etc.
Apart from these, some other popular backwater destinations include Kollam Backwaters, Kottayam Backwaters, Kozhikode Backwaters, Kumarakom Backwaters, Kuttanad Backwaters etc.
Cruises in Kerala Backwaters
To enjoy Kerala’s nature at its best, nothing can be better than that of a backwater cruise. These backwater cruises are actually converted traditional boats much known as “Kettuvalloms” there. With rich aquatic world, lush vegetation, rich avian world etc- experience a delightful journey with the backwater cruises in Kerala. Here you will find number of tour operators who offer a wide range of backwater tour packages. Pick from couple of days boat stay to overnight backwater cruising as per your wish.
Places Covered During Backwaters Ride
Infinite lagoons, lakes, canals, estuaries and the deltas of forty-four rivers have made the main stretch of backwater destinations. It covers four districts of the State, i.e. -Kollam, Alappuzha, Kottayam and Kochi. The largest Backwater body of Kerala flows through Alappuzha and Kottayam districts and opens out into the sea at the Kochi port. The Ashtamudi Lake is the second largest backwater stretch. You can enjoy here the longest backwater ride of eight hours. Through backwater boat services, Alappuzha is linked to Quilon, Changanassery, Kottayam, Cochin, Kumarakom, Kovalam and Chengannur.
Activities to do in Kerala Backwater
On their Kerala backwater trip, tourists can indulge in several recreational activities. The sun kissed beaches of Kerala are just apt for the adventure sports like surfing or parasailing. Kerala backwater tour offers a wide range of waster-sports which include rafting, sailing, wind surfing and catamaran rides. Watch wildlife at close quarters from the safety of a boat. If you don’t want to do anything just laze on your house boat decks, treat yourself to the backwater delicacies. Whatever you do, Kerala being the land of wonders will offer you an unforgettable experience of lifetime.
