Interconnected canals, lagoons, lakes, rivers and inlets, form the unique features of Kerala that is its backwaters. Fed by 38 rivers, this labyrinth system is formed by 900 km of waterways. It possesses of fresh water of the rivers that meets Arabian Sea water. Alongside backwaters, lush green palm trees provide green hue to the backwaters that let you explore unique aquatic life of Crabs, Mudskippers, Frogs, Turtles, and Kingfishers etc.
These backwaters form the venue for famous boat races of Kerala. Thousands of people gather on the banks of lakes to witness the cheerful celebrations of these sporty boat races. The other magnificent feature of backwater is its House boats. One can actually stay in the midst of backwaters and experience the scenic beauty of backwaters with the backdrop of simple rural life of Kerala villages. Some of the prominent backwater regions are Alleppy, Kollam, Kumarakom, Kozhikhode, Kasargod and Thiruvallam.
Starting from starting point of Kerala backwater waterways that is Kollam, 71 kms to the north of Thiruvananthpuram is coastal district of Kerala. The renowned Ashtamundi Lake makes it as a gateway to Kerala backwaters. The eight hour cruise between Kollam and Alappuzha is the longest backwater cruise surrounded by lotuses and water lilies all around. They are connected by Kayamkulam Lake, which is a part of Ashtamundi Lake.
Venice of the East, Alleppy or Alappuzha with Vembanad Lake is the most sought destination for Kerala backwaters that offer an inspiring and interesting experience. From vast stretches of paddy fields to coconut lagoons, you would come across small islands where locals are engaged in fishing activities on their country boats which is their traditional occupation.
Connected to Alleppy is village of Kumarakom on Vembanad Lake. With the backdrop of blue backwaters of exotic lake shadowed by green hue of vegetation adds to the tranquility of Kumarakom and thus makes it a perfect place for backwater cruises. Kumarakom bird sanctuary is another striking feature of this backwater region that will let you explore not only resident species but also the migratory birds and thus aptly termed as Ornithologist’s paradise.
Thiruvallam backwaters near state capital Thiruvananthapuram (6km away) is famous for its canoe rides, Kayaking, angling and backwater cruises. On the banks of the Karamana River, there is an ancient temple dedicated to the Trimurthis of the Hindu religion. Nearby Veli Lagoon provides adventure expedition with water sports, Waterfront Park and a floating bridge.
Moving to Kozhikode also known as Calicut possesses some of the unexplored backwaters. It’s been emerging as another Kerala backwater region amongst tourists who wish to add adventure to their backwater cruises. Elathur and Kallayi River attracts adventure tourist for its boating and cruising on the backwaters.
Kasargod or rice bowl of Kerala in north is another Kerala backwater destination. It is known for its rice cultivation. Kasargod is known as the land of Gods, Bekal fort, rivers, hills and beautiful beaches with its unique natural and cultural attractions. Chandragiri and Valiyaparamba are two well known backwater cruise options available.
All the above premium Kerala backwaters destinations are highly recommended by domestic and international tourists. It’s the prime attraction of Kerala as one can find misty clad mountains in any part of India, but backwaters can be exclusively found in Kerala only, hereby making it Kerala’s main attraction. |
