All about Kerala Backwaters Places
1. Alleppey
Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha, is acclaimed as the "Venice of the East" and is renowned for its mesmerizing backwaters. Situated in the southern Indian state of Kerala, Alleppey boasts an intricate network of canals, lakes, and lagoons that make up its captivating backwater system. The highlight of these backwaters is the Vembanad Lake, the longest lake in India, which plays a central role in shaping Alleppey's unique landscape.
Houseboat cruises are the quintessential experience in Alleppey's backwaters. These traditional houseboats, locally known as "kettuvallams," offer a leisurely and immersive journey through the meandering waterways. Traveling past swaying palms, paddy fields, and quaint villages, visitors can witness the unhurried pace of life along the water's edge.
The Alleppey backwaters are not just about scenic beauty; they provide a glimpse into the local culture and heritage. The coir industry is prevalent in the region, and travelers can observe the traditional coir-making process in the villages along the backwaters.
Every year, Alleppey hosts the renowned Nehru Trophy Boat Race, a thrilling event where teams compete in traditional snake boats, attracting spectators from far and wide. The race is a vibrant celebration of the region's maritime heritage.
Nature enthusiasts can explore the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, located near Alleppey, which is home to numerous bird species, both migratory and resident. The serene atmosphere of the backwaters creates an ideal environment for birdwatching.
Alleppey's backwaters provide a tranquil retreat, offering opportunities for relaxation, exploration, and cultural immersion. Whether it's a leisurely houseboat cruise, a visit to the vibrant Alleppey Beach, or a meander through the charming villages, the backwaters of Alleppey are a must-visit destination for those seeking a unique and enchanting experience in the heart of Kerala.
Places to Visit:
Alleppey Backwaters, Vembanad Lake, Marari Beach, Punnamada Lake, Alleppey Beach, Pathiramanal Island, Krishnapuram Palace, Ambalappuzha Sree Krishna Temple, St. Mary's Forane Church (Edathua Church), Mullakkal Rajarajeswari Temple, Champakulam Church, Aymanam Village.
Things to Do:
Houseboat Cruise, Canoeing and Kayaking, Village Tours, Marari Beach Activities, Bird Watching, Visit Alappuzha Beach, Attend Nehru Trophy Boat Race, Ayurvedic Spa and Wellness, Visit Krishnapuram Palace, Explore Pathiramanal Island, Taste Local Cuisine, Participate in a Homestay Experience, Photography Expedition, Visit Temples and Churches.
2. Kumarakom
Kumarakom, nestled on the shores of Vembanad Lake in Kerala, India, is renowned for its enchanting backwaters. The backwaters of Kumarakom are an intricate network of canals, lagoons, and lakes that collectively create a picturesque and tranquil landscape. Vembanad Lake, the largest lake in Kerala, is the centerpiece of Kumarakom's backwaters, offering a unique and immersive experience for visitors.
Exploring Kumarakom's backwaters is a highlight of a visit to this serene village. Traditional houseboats, locally known as "kettuvallams," are a popular means of navigating the waterways. These houseboats, converted from ancient rice barges, provide a luxurious and comfortable way to absorb the natural beauty of the region. The cruise takes you through narrow canals lined with coconut palms, paddy fields, and quaint villages, offering glimpses of local life.
The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, situated on the eastern banks of Vembanad Lake, is an integral part of the backwater ecosystem. This sanctuary is home to a variety of migratory and resident bird species, making it a haven for birdwatchers.
Visitors can also explore the smaller canals and waterways by opting for canoe rides, providing a more intimate experience of Kumarakom's backwaters. The serene ambiance, combined with the soothing sound of rippling water, creates an idyllic setting for relaxation and rejuvenation.
The backwaters of Kumarakom are not just a geographical feature but a way of life for the locals, influencing their culture, livelihoods, and daily activities. Whether enjoying a houseboat cruise, birdwatching, or simply absorbing the serenity of the surroundings, Kumarakom's backwaters offer a captivating and unforgettable experience for those seeking a tranquil retreat in the heart of Kerala
Place to Visit:
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Vembanad Lake, Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall, Pathiramanal Island, Kumarakom Beach, Bay Island Driftwood Museum, Kumarakom Backwaters, Kumarakom Craft Museum, Juma Masjid, Aymanam Village
Things to Do
Houseboat Cruise, Bird Watching at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Ayurvedic Spa and Wellness, Village Walks, Boating on Vembanad Lake, Visit Pathiramanal Island, Explore Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall, Attend a Kathakali Performance, Fishing in the Backwaters, Relax at Kumarakom Beach, Explore Bay Island Driftwood Museum, Take a Shikara Ride
3. Kasaragod
Kasaragod, situated in the northernmost part of Kerala, India, is not particularly known for extensive backwaters like some other regions in the state. Instead, Kasaragod is renowned for its diverse cultural heritage, historical landmarks, and agricultural activities. While it may not have the expansive backwaters that some other parts of Kerala boast, it offers a unique blend of coastal charm and rural landscapes.
The district is bordered by the Arabian Sea to the west, and its coastal areas feature serene beaches and estuaries. The Chandragiri and Bekal backwaters are smaller water bodies in the region, providing a glimpse into the coastal life and serving as picturesque locations for exploration.
In Kasaragod, the backwater experience is more intimate and focused on the local way of life. Visitors can explore the narrow waterways, estuaries, and small rivers that flow through the district. These water bodies are often lined with coconut groves and small villages, offering a peaceful setting for those seeking a quieter and less commercialized backwater experience.
While Kasaragod may not be as synonymous with backwaters as some other parts of Kerala, its coastal charm, historic sites like Bekal Fort, and the unique cultural blend make it a distinctive destination for travelers looking to explore the less-touristy side of the state. Visitors to Kasaragod can enjoy the beauty of the Arabian Sea, the cultural diversity of the region, and the simplicity of its more modest waterways.
Place to Visit:
Vembanad Lake, Houseboat Cruise, Aruvikkuzhi Waterfall, Pathiramanal Island, Kumarakom Beach, Bay Island Driftwood Museum, Kumarakom Backwaters, Thirunakkara Mahadeva Temple, Kumarakom Craft Museum
Things to Do:
Houseboat Cruise, Bird Watching at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary,Ayurvedic Spa Experience, Canoeing and Kayaking, Village Walks, Sunset Cruise, Visit Pathiramanal Island, Explore Kumarakom Beach, Attend Cultural Events, Photography, Try Local Cuisine, Visit Kumarakom Craft Museum
4. Kollam
Kollam, situated in the southern Indian state of Kerala, is renowned for its enchanting backwaters, adding to the city's allure as a popular tourist destination. The backwaters in Kollam are primarily formed by the Ashtamudi Lake, a vast and picturesque water body with multiple channels. Ashtamudi, meaning "eight coned," refers to the lake's eight arms or channels, creating a labyrinth of waterways that wind through lush landscapes, coconut groves, and traditional villages.
Exploring Kollam's backwaters is a serene experience often undertaken on traditional houseboats known as "kettuvallams." These houseboats offer a unique and leisurely way to navigate the intricate network of canals, providing a front-row seat to the scenic beauty and daily life along the water's edge. The backwaters are dotted with small islands, fishing villages, and bird-rich wetlands, creating a haven for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
Visitors to Kollam's backwaters can enjoy a tranquil journey, observing the traditional lifestyle of the people living along the waterways. The reflection of swaying palm trees in the calm waters and the occasional sighting of migratory birds enhance the idyllic charm of the backwater experience. The Ashtamudi Lake is also known for its vibrant houseboat races, adding a touch of excitement and cultural fervor to the region's festivities.
Whether it's a leisurely houseboat cruise, a stroll along the banks, or a visit to the quaint villages, Kollam's backwaters provide a peaceful retreat, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and cultural richness of Kerala's enchanting waterways.
Place to Visit:
Ashtamudi Lake, Thangassery Beach and Lighthouse, Tangasseri Fort, Kollam Beach, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Police Museum, Adventure Park, Ashramam, Palaruvi Waterfalls, Kulathupuzha Sastha Temple, Achankovil Sastha Temple, Kottarakkara Kathakali Museum
Things to Do:
Boating on Ashtamudi Lake, Visit Tangasseri Lighthouse, Explore Tangasseri Fort, Relax at Kollam Beach, Palaruvi Waterfalls Trip, Adventure Park, Visit Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Police Museum, Attend a Kathakali Performance, Visit Kulathupuzha Sastha Temple, Achankovil Sastha Temple Visit, Shopping at Chinnakada Market, Houseboat Cruise
5. Kuttanad
Kuttanad, often referred to as the "Rice Bowl of Kerala," is a unique and picturesque region known for its expansive backwaters. Located in the Alappuzha district of Kerala, India, Kuttanad is characterized by a vast network of interconnecting rivers, lakes, and canals, creating a lush green landscape below sea level.
The backwaters of Kuttanad are primarily formed by the convergence of several rivers, including the Pamba, Meenachil, and Achankovil. The region is renowned for its extensive paddy fields, where traditional farming practices take place below sea level, making Kuttanad one of the few places in the world where agriculture is carried out in such conditions. Visitors to Kuttanad can explore the backwaters by embarking on a houseboat cruise or a traditional canoe ride. The journey takes you through narrow canals shaded by coconut palms and picturesque villages, offering a close-up view of rural life and the scenic beauty that defines Kuttanad.
One of the unique aspects of Kuttanad is its vast paddy fields, often referred to as "below sea level farming." The fields are divided by narrow strips of land, and farmers use traditional methods to cultivate crops, showcasing the ingenuity of the local agricultural practices.
The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is situated near Kuttanad, attracting birdwatchers with its diverse avian population. The backwaters serve as a habitat for various bird species, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts.
Overall, a visit to Kuttanad provides a distinctive backwater experience, allowing travelers to witness the harmonious coexistence of water and land, explore the traditional farming methods, and enjoy the tranquility of this unique and ecologically rich region.
Place to Visit:
Vembanad Lake, Champakulam Church, Champakulam Kalloorkadu St. Mary’s Basilica, Nehru Trophy Boat Race, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Kuttanad Paddy Fields, Karumadi Kuttan, Pamba River, Pathiramanal Island, Kottayam, Chavara Bhavan, Kuttanad Backwater Festival
Things to Do:
Houseboat Cruise, Canoeing, Explore Paddy Fields, Visit Champakulam, Attend Nehru Trophy Boat Race, Birdwatching at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Cycle Tour, Karumadi Kuttan Visit, Relax by the Backwaters, Cultural Festivals, Boat Trip to Pathiramanal Island, Photography
6. Valiyaparamba
Valiyaparamba, nestled in the northern part of Kerala, India, is a captivating destination renowned for its enchanting backwaters. The region boasts an extensive network of interconnected waterways, creating a serene and picturesque landscape. Houseboat cruises along the meandering backwaters are a popular way to explore Valiyaparamba, offering visitors a peaceful journey surrounded by lush greenery. The backwaters are dotted with charming islands, both inhabited and uninhabited, adding to the allure of this natural haven.
Kavvayi Kayal, a large and scenic lake, is intricately connected to Valiyaparamba, contributing to the beauty of the entire region. Thalassery Fort, although not directly situated in Valiyaparamba, is a historic landmark nearby, providing panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. Cherukunnu Annapoorneswari Temple, an ancient religious site in close proximity, adds a cultural dimension to the experience.
The tranquility of Valiyaparamba's backwaters attracts nature lovers, offering opportunities for birdwatching amidst the lush surroundings. The region's unique topography, characterized by the convergence of rivers and the meeting point of four water bodies known as Kotti Kottal, enhances its scenic beauty. Fishing villages along the backwaters provide a glimpse into the traditional way of life, contributing to the authenticity of the Valiyaparamba experience. Overall, Valiyaparamba stands as a hidden gem, offering a serene and immersive backwater retreat for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty.
Place to Visit:
Valiyaparamba Backwaters, Kavvayi Island, Cherukunnu Annapoorneswari Temple, Kavvayi Kayal, Thalassery Fort, Chandragiri Fort, Kotti Kottal, Pathiramanal Island, Kottayil Kovilakom, Muthappan Temple, Parassinikadavu, Kotti Kottal Viewpoint, Fishing Villages
Things to Do:
Houseboat Cruise, Explore Kavvayi Island, Visit Cherukunnu Annapoorneswari Temple, Kavvayi Kayal Exploration, Thalassery Fort Excursion, Chandragiri Fort Visit, Witness the Confluence at Kotti Kottal, Pathiramanal Island Trip, Kottayil Kovilakom Exploration, Muthappan Temple Pilgrimage, Kotti Kottal Viewpoint, Fishing Village Interaction