Kuttanad Backwater in Kerala

Kuttanad is an expanse of water-logged land lying below sea level. It bears strong resemblance to Holland in terms of geographical features.

Three rivers, namely Pampa, Manimala and Achankovil, criss cross the length and breadth of Kuttanad. Until a few years back, water was the main mode of transportation, though today buses and trains ply in the region.

However, so unique is the landscape that a boat trip is irresistible, not only for tourists but natives as well. Kuttanad, known as the 'rice bowl of Kerala' because of her wealth of paddy crops, is the very heart of the backwaters.

The scenic countryside here is a rich crop of Bananas, Yams and Casava. This is one of the places in the world, where farming is done below sea level. Inland waterways, which flow above land level is an amazing feature of this unique land.

The 75 kilometre long sparkling network of rivers, canals, lakes, lagoons and tiny streamlets between Quilon and Cochin and beyond to Thiruvananthapuram, of which the Kuttanad (backwater) consist are akin to a tropical land of canals.

On the shores of the enchanting Vembanad lake, 14 kms from Kottayam, lies Kumarakom in its small town .....hush, redolent of restful peace.

Kerala Backwaters |  Kuttanad Backwaters
Kettuvallam Houseboats |  Kerala House Boats