Kerala Backwaters
The Kerala Backwaters are a network of interconnected canals, rivers, lakes, and inlets along the Arabian Sea coast. A houseboat cruise through these tranquil waters is a quintessential South Indian experience.
History
The backwaters have been used for centuries as transportation routes in Kerala. The traditional houseboats (kettuvallams) were originally cargo boats used to transport rice and spices. They have been converted into tourist accommodations with modern amenities.
Famous for
How to reach
By air: Cochin International Airport (1-2 hours drive). By rail: Alleppey and Kottayam railway stations. By road: well-connected from Kochi and Trivandrum.
Nearby attractions
Emergency contacts
About
The Kerala backwaters stretch over 900 kilometers and offer a unique ecosystem with diverse flora and fauna. Houseboats come in various sizes, from budget to luxury, typically with private bedrooms, bathrooms, living areas, and onboard chefs preparing fresh Kerala meals.
Alleppey is the main hub for backwater tourism, with its extensive canal network and annual Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race. Kumarakom offers a more tranquil experience with the famous bird sanctuary on Vembanad Lake.
Other experiences include canoe rides through narrow canals, visits to village industries (coir making, toddy tapping), and Ayurvedic massages. The best time to visit is during the winter months when the weather is pleasant.