Posted 20 January 2023 in Travel Wanderlust

All the backwaters worth exploring on your trip to Kerala

Kerala, which stretches along the tropical Malabar Coast and boasts everything from extensive beaches and scenic backwaters to unique flora and a rich tradition, is without a doubt one of India's most charming states. Due to its natural aura and plenty of activities, Kerala has long been a popular destination among travellers.

While hill resorts and beaches may be found throughout India, Kerala's backwaters are special. An intricate network of lakes, canals and estuaries of various rivers feeds into the Arabian Sea meanders and Kerala's coastal districts. The Backwaters of Kerala are a must-see on any vacation to the state. A houseboat trip on the backwaters feels like a journey into another world because of the lush palm-fringed scenery, diverse wildlife and backwater-line dwellings and communities. As a result, the unique mix of a Kerala houseboat and the pristine backwaters will give you an unparalleled experience that you will remember for the rest of your life.

Here's a list of popular Backwaters in Kerala that are a must-have on your itinerary:

1. Backwaters of Alleppey

Alleppey, commonly known as Alappuzha, is one of Kerala's most popular backwater getaways. The Alleppey Backwaters, often known as the 'Venice of the East', are picture-perfect terrain, sparkling rivers, lush foliage and stunning freshwater lakes. It was once used for transportation, fishing and agriculture but has since evolved into a popular tourist destination. What could be better for a lengthy and relaxing vacation than cruising around Alleppey's palm-fringed waterways? Passing through coconut groves, paddy fields and temples is a genuinely magical experience.

2. Cochin Backwaters

Cochin Backwaters is one of Kerala's most enchanting backwater attractions! Cochin Backwaters, located on the banks of the gorgeous Vembanad Lake, can be described as a paradise for backwater enthusiasts! The Cochin Backwaters offer travellers one of the most charming sites, with coconut trees surrounding the crystalline lake waters for kilometres. Local and migratory birds, sizeable Chinese fishing nets, local towns and much more can be seen as you cruise around the tranquil lakes.

3. Backwaters of Cherai Island

Cherai is unique in that it offers both a laid-back beach and an equally lovely backwater. The Cherai Island Backwaters are a mix of lakes, canals, lagoons and estuaries where you can catch fish, lobsters and crabs using traditional fishing methods. Take a country boat out on the tranquil river, crystal clear, cool water and row among the palm-fringed backwaters and rice fields, taking in the beauty of Kerala villages.

4. Kottayam Backwaters

The Kottayam Backwaters, located in the basin of the magical Vembanad Lake, are one of the essential aspects of Kottayam tourism. Visitors may make it to this picturesque city, hire houseboats, cruise through the turquoise backwaters and unravel the enchanting beauty and allure of Kottayam, whether they are arranging a Kerala trip with family, friends or coworkers. Overnight backwater excursions in Kottayam include:

Sailing in houseboats on the lovely Vembanad Lake and passing through the famed Punnamada Lake.
Observing the unique lifestyle of Keralans.
Passing through villages.

5. Backwaters of Kozhikode

Kozhikode, located on the northern edge of Kerala's picturesque state, has long been known for its backwaters. The Kozhikode Backwaters are remarkable in that they are surrounded by groovy palm thickets and are connected by canal networks. The Canoli River and Kallai River in Kozhikode are blessed with these excellent backwater streams, which provide a fantastic opportunity to explore the town's gorgeous surroundings. Visitors can watch, explore, discover and appreciate the rustic charm of Kerala's rural culture while boating through these backwaters. The most attractive feature of the Kozhikode Backwaters is the houseboat cruise. Houseboats are built like houses with the required amenities, and you may remain aboard the boat and enjoy nature's breathtaking beauty.

6. Kumarakom Backwaters

Kumarakom is a stunning emerald peninsula that juts into the beautiful Vembanad Lake, filled with countless rafts and canoes. The lake's freshwater rushes into the mainland, creating a maze of lagoons, canals and waterways. The Kumarakom Backwaters are home to a diverse range of marine life, including tiger prawns, crabs and prawns. The region around Kumarakom is turned into a richly fertile area as the monsoon winds bring rain to the coasts of Vembanad Lake. Streams and lagoons overflow their banks, nourishing the plants that spring up everywhere.

7. Kuttanad Backwaters

Kuttanad is home to some of Kerala's most beautiful backwaters, crisscrossed by rivers and backed by lush green rice fields and cultivation grounds. Travellers come here to explore the perplexing maze of sparkling waterways, which include rivers, canals, lakes and creeks backed on each side by deep tropical flora and the lovely rural Keralan lifestyle. The best way to discover these beautiful backwaters is to take a houseboat ride through them and take in the scenery.

What is the ideal way to see the backwaters?

The majority of visitors to Kerala's backwaters choose a traditional Kerala-style houseboat. The experience is enhanced by freshly prepared Indian cuisine and cold beer. You have the option of going on a day excursion or staying on the boat overnight.

A voyage on a houseboat can also be paired with a stay at a backwater resort, hotel or homestay. Resorts and luxury hotels frequently own houseboats, offering overnight and sunset cruises. On the other hand, other hotels can readily arrange for you to stay on a houseboat.

Best backwater resorts in Kerala

Kumarakom Lake Resort, Kumarakom: The Kumarakom Lake Resort, widely regarded as one of India's luxuries, is located on the tranquil banks of Lake Vembanad. It features contemporary cottages with heritage elements and cutting-edge facilities. There's also a gym and an Ayurveda facility on the resort's houseboat. At Kumarakom Lake Resort, Ettukettu, a multi-cuisine restaurant, takes pride of position. The Ettukettu's Continental, Chinese, Mughlai, North Indian and traditional Kerala culinary specialities are a gourmet's delight. Still, the ethnic Kerala cuisine is the reigning speciality at this regal restaurant, with a bevy of fragrant spices providing the meal with its distinct flavour.
Sterling Lake Palace, Alleppey: The Sterling Lake Palace Alleppey Resort is nestled amid 14 acres of rich flora and tranquil water features, next to the Vembanad Lake. The resort, built around a private lagoon and surrounded by backwaters, has 58 magnificent rooms and suites that overlook Vembanad Lake, India's longest freshwater lake. The resort also features an Ayurvedic spa, water sports, coastal flavours and outstanding international cuisine.
Aymanam Village Backwater Resort, Kottayam: Aymanam Village Backwater Resort is one of Kerala's ancestral resorts. Its architecture is conservative and elegant, reminiscent of heritage resorts. Aymanam Village Backwater Resort features 14 rooms with modern facilities and a variety of layouts. In addition, the in-house restaurant serves vegetarian and non-vegetarian delicacies to visitors.
Backwater Ripples: Backwater Ripples was designed with a traditional style in mind and a touch of contemporary elegance. The resort will grow on you with its friendly welcome, soothing environment and scenic location. Not only does the resort have rooms, but it also has a restaurant on site that serves delectable North Indian, Chinese and Continental cuisines. The resort also offers a Taproom Bar, which sells a variety of beers.

How to reach Kerala?

Flight: Kerala is reachable by air. Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi and Kozhikode are the state's three primary airports. Thiruvananthapuram and Kochi have an international airport that services major local and international flights all year, but Kozhikode's Karipur Airport only serves domestic carriers. IndiGo provides direct flights to Kerala from major Indian cities and overseas destinations.
Train: Kerala is well-connected to all of India's main cities, including the four metropolises of New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai, by an efficient train network. In Kerala, over 200 railway stations connect sites both within and beyond the state.
Road: Kerala is connected to some of South India's neighbouring states, including Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, by road. Kerala is connected to the rest of the country through National Highways 47, 17 and 49 and a new metalled road system.

Best time to visit Kerala

Winter Season: Winter (September-February) is considered the ideal time to visit the backwaters of Kerala. During this period, the weather is favourable, making it suitable for exploring the beautiful frontiers.
Summer Season: Kerala's summer (March-May) is hot and humid, with only occasional rain. This, however, is not a hindrance, as you can float your houseboat across Kerala's backwaters. We recommend renting an AC houseboat if you are visiting Kerala during the summer.
Monsoon Season: Kerala receives a lot of rain during the monsoon season (June-September), which adds to the state's beauty by making it green and inviting. The backwaters are transformed into a sports arena for snake boat racing during this season. The season begins with the Champakulam Moolam Boat Race in June/July. The Nehru Trophy Boat Race, on the other hand, draws a considerable number of tourists due to its popularity as well as the sea of fans which emit an infectious passion and zeal.

Conclusion

Backwaters, formerly an essential mode of transportation, today offer visitors a pleasant experience. Kerala Backwaters have something for everyone, whether it's a honeymoon, a family holiday or a vacation with friends. Book IndiGo flights to Kerala to see the unrivalled and rustic beauty of the backwaters!