Backwaters of Kerala
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Tour Options -
The
backwaters of Kerala are what have given it the sobriquet "God's Own Country".
As you meander through these on a houseboat you drift into a timeless land replete
with picture-postcard towns and ancient trading posts. The huge coconut trees
provide an apt backdrop and perhaps you can even eavesdrop on the strains of
an oarsman's song.
A network of lakes, rivers and canals fringe the coast of Kerala. These backwaters,
while a great inland thoroughfare on water, offer an alternative lifestyle.
The criss-crossed, palm-fringed lakes traversed with Chinese fishing nets are
very popular cruises, especially between Kollam and Allappuzha. The backwaters
have become important attractions though they are threatened by population growth
and industrial development. Of the 29 major lakes on the backwaters, seven drain
into the sea. Stretched over a total expanse of 1500 kms, the backwaters have
a network of 44 rivers, lagoons and lakes from north to south.
» Alleppey Backwaters
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 travelers from across the world, this
backwater country is also home ot 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, Alappauzha 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.
» Cochin Backwaters
More
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 Lochi a fascinating blend of the
cultures and influences of explorers and traders who visited this wealthy land.
The Arabs, Chinese, Portuguese, Dutch and Gritish 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.
» Kasaragod
Backwaters
The
northernmost district of Kerala, Kasaragod is situated on the seacoast with
the Western Ghats on its east and northern borders. Backwater trips on the Chandragiri
river at Valiyaparamba are fascinating experiences.
Chandragiri (4 ksm from Kasaragod town): 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 watch the sunset.
Chandragiri cruises : Boat trips to nearby islands and plam groves are available.
Boarding point: Chandragiri bridge.
» Kollam Backwaters
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 day gone by. The district also
has some interesting historic remnants and a number of temples built in the
traditional ornate architectural style.
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 backwater tours
and cruises.
» Kottayam Backwaters
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 travelers
from across the world, this backwater country is also home ot 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, Alappauzha 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.
» Kozhikode
Backwaters
Once
the capital of the powerful zamorins, a prominent trade and commerce center
and the land of the Malabar Mahotsavam, Kozhikode was the most important region
of Malabar in the days gone by. Today, ancient monuments, lush green countrysides,
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 Canolly Canal and the Kallai river are favourite
haunts for boating. Kadalundi, with its beautiful bird sanctuary is a charming
site. Korapuzha, the venue of the Korapuzha Jalotsavam is fast becoming a popular
water sport destination.
» Kumarakom
Backwaters
A
voyage north of Alappuzha takes you to the rich green, sleepy little village
of Kumarakom on the Vembanad lake.
An enchanting picnic spot and a fast developing backwater tourism destination,
Kumarakom provides boating, fishing and sightseeing experiences that are truly
exhilarating. An exclusive attraction of this much sought after backwater resort
is the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary.
The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is an ornithologist's paradise and a fabourite
haunt of migratory birds like the Siberian stork, egret, darter, heron and teal.
A cruise along the Vembanad lake is the best way to view the bird life.
» Thiruvananthapuram
Backwaters
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.
» Kerala
Backwater Tours
Duration : 9 Nights / 10 Days
Destinations : Kochi - Munnar - Periyar - Kumarakom - Alleppey
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