 Fringing
the coast of Kerala and winding far inland is an intricate network of
innumerable Lagoons, Lakes, Canals, Estuaries and the Deltas of
forty-four rivers that drain into the Arabian Sea.
Over 900 kms of this labyrinthine water world is navigable. As
characteristic of Kerala as the 600km long coastline of dazzling beaches
is the dense, lush Backwaters of the state.
And while hill stations are all over the country and palm-fringed
beaches too, the Backwaters are unique to Kerala. These Backwaters are
both the basis of a distinct lifestyle and a fascinating thoroughfare.
Travelling by boat along the Backwaters is one of the highlights of
Kerala.
The boats cross shallow, palm-fringed lakes studded with cantilevered
Chineses fishing nets and travel along narrow shady canals, where Coir,
Copra, and Cashews are loaded into the boats. The largest backwater
stretch in Kerala is the Vembanad Lake, which flows through three
districts and opens out into the sea at the Kochi port.
The Ashtamudi Lake (literally, having eight arms), which covers a major
portion of Kollam district in the south, is the second largest and is
considered the gateway to the Backwaters. Each district of Kerala is
marked by the presence of the inviting Backwaters, which form a
prominent part of the panoramic landscape of Kerala.
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Veli Tourist Village The Veli Tourist
Village is sandwiched between the Veli Lagoon and the Arabian Sea. The
lagoon here is separated from the sea by a narrow sand bar.
Facilities at the village include water sports in the lagoon and an
18-acre waterfront park with a floating bridge that connects the village
to the beach.
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THIRUVANANTHAPURAM DISTRICT - KERALA BACKWATERS
TRAVEL
The southernmost district of the State, Thiruvananthapuram is bounded by
the wooded highlands of the Western Ghats on the east and northeast, and
the Arabian Sea on the west.
A long shoreline, with secluded, internationally renowned beaches,
historic monuments, backwater stretches and a rich cultural heritage
give this district some of the most enchanting picnic spots. The main
backwater areas of Thiruvananthapuram are Thiruvallam and Veli.
Thiruvallam Backwaters This serene
backwater stretch, en-route to Kovalam, is famous for its canoe rides.
Thiruvallam is the meeting point of two rivers - Killi and Karamana. A
temple dedicated to Parashurama, the legendary founder of Kerala, is
located here.
Akkulam Boat Club This is a very popular
picnic spot with boating facilities on the lake and a children's park
with a Swimming pool.
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KOLLAM DISTRICT - KERALA BACKWATERS TRAVEL
Located 71 km to the north of Thiruvananthapuram, this historic
coastline district known for its marine and cashew industries was one of
the oldest ports on the Malabar coast and a major international trading
point in days gone by.
The district also has some interesting historic remnants and a number
of temples built in the traditional ornate architectural style. Around
30% of this historic town is covered by the renowned Ashtamudi Lake,
making it the gateway to the magnificent Backwaters of Kerala.
The eight hour trip between Kollam and Alappuzha is the longest
backwater cruise in Kerala. The District Tourism Promotion Council here
offers a wide range of backwaters tours and cruises.
Alumkadavu Along the vast expanse of the
Kayamkulam Lake is the picturesque little village of Alumkadavu. This
village is the home of the skilled artisans who crafted the enormous
Kettuvallams in yester years.
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ALAPPUZHA (ALLEPPEY) DISTRICT - KERALA
BACKWATERS TRAVEL
 With
the Arabian Sea on the west and a vast network of lakes, lagoons and
fresh water rivers crisscrossing it, Alappuzha is a district of immense
natural beauty. Referred to as the Venice of the East by travellers from
across the world, this backwaters country is also home to diverse animal
and bird life.
By virtue of its proximity to the sea, the town has always enjoyed a
unique place in the maritime history of Kerala. Today, Alappuzha has
grown in importance as a backwater tourist centre, attracting several
thousands of foreign tourists each year.
Alappuzha is also famous for its boat races, houseboat holidays,
beaches, marine products and coir industry. A singular characteristic of
this land is the region called Kuttanad.
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Pathiramanal Backwaters: According to
mythology, a young Brahmin dived into the Vembanad Lake to perform his
evening ablutions and the water made way for land to rise from below,
thus creating the enchanting island of Pathiramanal (sands of midnight).
This little island on the Backwaters is a favourite haunt of hundreds
of rare migratory birds from different parts of the world. The island
lies between Thaneermukkom and Kumarakom, and is accessible only by
boat. It takes 1½ hours by motorboat/30 min, by speedboat from
Alappuzha. |
KOTTAYAM DISTRICT - KERALA BACKWATERS TRAVEL
Bordered by the lofty Western Chats on the east, the Vembanad Lake and
the paddy fields of Kuttanad on the west, Kottayam is a land of unique
characteristics.
Panoramic backwater stretches, lush paddy fields, highlands, extensive
rubber plantations and a totally literate people have given this
district the title: the land of letters, latex and lakes.
Kumarakom Kumarakom slumbers on the banks
of the famous Vembanad Lake, which is a part of Kuttanad ('granary' of
Kerala). The Vembanad Lake with its majestic canals, streams and
tributaries along its banks weave an intricate and enchantingly
beautiful web.
The gorgeous green of the fringed palms ripple in the blue waters and
blend into wavelets A boat ride in the countryside offers a close look
into an engaging rustic life. Skilled-fishermen launching their
cockshell boats.
Large flotillas of ducks waddling down to the water from thatched houses
on the banks. Women, neck-deep in water, with their waist-length hair
heaped in a crown, searching for fish with their feet.
And aimless cattle grazing in lush pastureland, where white lotuses lie
here and there in small, low-lying pools.
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ERNAKULAM (KOCHI) DISTRICT - KERALA BACKWATERS
TRAVELMore popular as the Queen of the Arabian Sea, Kochi is a
cluster of islands on the vast expanse of the Vembanad Lake. Some of
these picturesque islands are Bolgatty, Vypeen, Gundu and Vallarpadam.
The lake opens out into the Arabian Sea here to form one of the finest
natural harbours in the world. It is this natural advantage that has
made Kochi a fascinating blend of the cultures and influences of the
explorers and traders who visited this wealthy land.
The Arabs, Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch and the British have all left
their mark here. The Jewish synagogue, the Dutch palace, the Chinese
fishing nets, and other remnants of European and Asian architecture
merge smoothly into the traditional fabric of the seaport city.
Half the fun of visiting Kochi is moving around on the local ferries. A
conducted cruise through the winding waterways will take you to several
quaint spots. |
KOZHIKODE DISTRICT - KERALA BACKWATERS TRAVEL
 Once
the capital of the powerful Zamorins, a prominent trade and commerce
centre and the land of the Malabar Mahotsavam, Kozhikode was the most
important region of Malabar in days past.
Today, ancient monuments, lush green countryside, serene beaches,
historic sites, wildlife sanctuaries, rivers, hills, a unique culture
and a warm, friendly ambience make this district a much sought after
destination.
Unexplored, unspoiled, the backwaters of Kozhikode hold great promises
of enchanting holiday options. Elathur, the Canoli Canal and the Kallai
River are favourite places for boating.
Kadalundi, with its beautiful bird sanctuary is a charming site.
Korapuzha, the venue of the Korapuzha Jalotsavam (water fiesta) is fast
becoming a popular water sport destination.
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KASARAGOD DISTRICT - KERALA BACKWATER TRAVELThe
northernmost district of Kerala, Kasaragod is situated on the sea coast
with the Western Chats on its east and northern borders. Backwater trips
on the Chandragiri River and at Valiyaparamba are fascinating
experiences.
Chandragiri Situated on the Chandragiri
River, southeast of Kasaragod town, this town is known for the large
17th century Chandragiri Fort, one of a chain of forts.
It offers a breathtaking view of the river and the Arabian Sea. It is a
vantage point to watch the sunset.
Chandragiri cruises:
Boat trips to nearby islands and palm groves are available.
Boarding point:
Chandragiri bridge.
Valiyaparamba This is perhaps the most
scenic backwater stretch in Kerala. Fed by four rivers and dotted with
numerous little islands, Valiyaparamba is fast turning into a much
favoured backwater resort.
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Valiyaparamba This is perhaps the most
scenic backwater stretch in Kerala. Fed by four rivers and dotted with
numerous little islands, Valiyaparamba is fast turning into a much
favoured backwater resort. |
KERALA BACKWATERS CRUISES
 The
most popular backwater cruise is the eight-hour trip between Kollam and
Alappuzha and vice versa. The regular public ferry service on this route
has been suspended but tourist boats are as popular as ever.
There are essentially identical daily cruises operated on alternate
days by the Private Alleppy Tourist Development Co-Operative and the
State Government's District Tourism Promotion Council. |
Kerala Travel Tours - Kerala means "land of
coconuts". Many call the beach at kovalam the best in
india. Emerald Kerala Backwaters, lush hill stations, ayurveda
and health resorts, enchanting beaches of Kerala, and exotic
cuisine… all of which are a part of Kerala Travel and Tourism
Guide. 
