Overview
The Kerala Backwaters, located on India’s lush southwest coast, form a spectacular network of lakes, canals, rivers, and lagoons running parallel to the Arabian Sea. Spanning over 900 kilometers, this emerald paradise offers a unique combination of stunning scenery, tranquil waters, vibrant culture, and rustic village life. Traditionally used for fishing, transport, and agriculture, The Kerala Backwaters are now among Kerala’s biggest tourist draws, famous for serene houseboat cruises, exotic birdlife, and coconut palm-fringed shores.
Traveling through the Kerala Backwaters is a gentle drift through sleepy villages, green paddy fields, churches, temples, and mangrove forests. Whether you are floating in a traditional kettuvallam (houseboat) or paddling through narrow canals, the journey reveals a peaceful way of life unchanged for centuries.
Quick Facts
Location: Kerala, India
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Nearest Airports: Cochin International Airport (COK), Trivandrum International Airport (TRV)
Popular Backwater Destinations: Alleppey, Kumarakom, Kollam, Kuttanad
Languages: Malayalam, English
Currency: Indian Rupee (INR)
Budget Breakdown
Here’s an approximate daily budget for traveling in the Kerala Backwaters:
| Category | Cost (INR) | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (per night) | ₹1,000 – ₹5,000 | $12 – $60 |
| Meals (per day) | ₹300 – ₹1,000 | $4 – $12 |
| Transportation (per day) | ₹200 – ₹800 | $2.5 – $10 |
| Houseboat Cruise (1 day) | ₹7,000 – ₹15,000 | $85 – $180 |
| Activities & Entry Fees | ₹100 – ₹500 | $1.2 – $6 |
| Total Daily Estimate | ₹8,600 – ₹22,300 | $104 – $268 |
Note: 1 USD ≈ ₹82 INR. Prices can vary based on season and preference.
Flights to Kerala Backwaters
- Kerala is well-connected by air.
- The nearest airports are Cochin International Airport (COK) and Trivandrum International Airport (TRV).
- Domestic flights from major Indian cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore are frequent and affordable.
- For international travelers, Cochin Airport is connected directly to Middle Eastern hubs (Dubai, Abu Dhabi), Southeast Asia (Singapore, Kuala Lumpur), and select European cities.
- Flight deals can vary, so it’s wise to book early, especially during the tourist season.
Safety Tips
Health: Drink only bottled water. Eat from reputable restaurants to avoid stomach issues.
Security: Kerala is generally very safe. Still, keep personal belongings close, especially in crowded areas.
Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly when visiting temples or rural areas. Removing shoes before entering homes and temples is customary.
Climate of Kerala Backwaters
Summer (March–May): Hot and humid, temperatures between 32°C to 36°C (90°F to 97°F).
Monsoon (June–September): Heavy rains bring lush landscapes, but cruises may be less frequent.
Winter (October–February): Best time to visit, with pleasant temperatures around 24°C to 30°C (75°F to 86°F).
Best Things to Do in Kerala Backwaters & Nearby
1. Houseboat Cruise
No visit to the Kerala Backwaters is complete without drifting along the waters in a houseboat. Originally used to transport rice, these boats have been transformed into floating hotels equipped with bedrooms, kitchens, and open lounges. Whether you choose a day cruise or an overnight stay, the peaceful rhythm of life along the riverbanks is mesmerizing.
2. Canoeing and Kayaking
For those looking for a more intimate experience, renting a canoe or kayak offers the chance to navigate the narrower, untouched canals where houseboats cannot go. It’s the best way to observe local life up close.
3. Bird Watching
The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a paradise for bird lovers. Between November and February, migratory birds from Siberia and the Himalayas flock here. Spot herons, kingfishers, and egrets among other rare species.
4. Village Tours
Explore Kerala’s soul through its villages. Witness coir rope making, fishing, toddy tapping, and visit local markets. These tours offer deep insights into the sustainable way of life that has thrived for centuries.
5. Ayurvedic Treatments
Kerala is the birthplace of Ayurveda. Numerous resorts and spas in the backwater regions offer authentic treatments for relaxation, rejuvenation, and healing.
Top Attractions in Kerala Backwaters & Nearby Places
1. Alleppey (Alappuzha)
Known as the “Venice of the East,” Alleppey is the most popular hub for houseboat cruises. The city’s complex grid of canals, beaches, and lagoons makes it a mesmerizing place to explore. Don’t miss the spectacular Nehru Trophy Boat Race held annually on Punnamada Lake.
2. Kumarakom
Located along the banks of the Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom is a peaceful village with luxury resorts and stunning natural beauty. Apart from the bird sanctuary, it offers mesmerizing sunset cruises, fishing tours, and luxury houseboat rides.
3. Kollam
Kollam, one of Kerala’s oldest ports, is famous for its cashew industry and Ashtamudi Lake. It’s a quieter alternative to Alleppey, ideal for longer and less touristy houseboat journeys.
4. Kuttanad
Called the “Rice Bowl of Kerala,” Kuttanad is one of the few places where farming is done below sea level. Surrounded by paddy fields, coconut groves, and tiny villages, it’s a breathtaking place to witness Kerala’s rural charm.
5. Pathiramanal Island
Meaning “Sands of Midnight,” Pathiramanal is a lush green island in Vembanad Lake. It’s a sanctuary for bird watchers and can only be accessed by boat, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers.
6. Kumbalangi
Located near Kochi, Kumbalangi is India’s first eco-friendly tourism village. It showcases traditional crab farming, coir making, and Chinese fishing nets against a serene backdrop of mangroves and paddy fields.
Kerala Backwaters Travel Guide
Stay: Choose between traditional homestays, eco-resorts, or luxury houseboats.
Transport: Use local ferries, tuk-tuks (auto-rickshaws), and bicycles to get around.
Food: Try Karimeen (pearl spot fish fry), Kerala Sadya (feast), and coconut-based dishes.
Events: If visiting in August, attend the famous Snake Boat Races.