The Kerala Backwaters is a popular destination for vacations and sightseeing. One quick browse through the internet, and tourists will find photos of peaceful rivers, boathouses, and romantic sunsets. The Kerala Backwaters is a picturesque place where people come to relax and to be one with nature.
Additionally, Kerala is home to some unique species of animals. Keep an eye out for kingfishers, frogs, otters, and even turtles. Because it's a beautiful sight, it's tempting to only look at what is already in front of you. Instead, make sure to keep an eye out for the different wildlife and beautiful sights. Nature enthusiasts might get a kick out of the lush flora and fauna in the area.
The Popular Backwaters
A backwater is the more peaceful part of a river—a place with almost no current. Backwaters are the perfect place to go fishing, go on boat tours, and enjoy a view of the sunset. For Kerala, which is home to 34 backwaters. These backwaters are frequently included in lists of must-visit places in India. It offers a tranquil escape, one that is much-needed when the bustle of city life is becoming too much to handle. So hop into a houseboat and coast through the backwaters while watching all your worries float away.
Alleppey
Of the 34 backwaters in Kerala, a few are frequently mentioned, such as Alleppey. Alleppey (Alappuzha) has been given the nickname "Venice of the East" because of its famous houseboats and boat tours. What attracts people to this destination is its beautiful surroundings and serene schedules. A unique feature is that tourists can have a day tour or an overnight stay.
Chettuva Backwaters
The Chettuva Backwaters in the temple town of Thrissur is an offbeat choice, given the many options in Kerala. Compared to Alleppey, the Chettuva Backwater is more quiet and serene. It is the perfect place to take photos because it is less crowded. No need to worry about unwanted photobombers!
Kavvayi Backwaters
Kavvayi is located in the northern part of Kerala. As the third-largest backwater in Kerala, Visitors will have a view of the nearby islands. Those who stay for the day can experience the unique cuisine of the Kavvayi.
The Houseboats
Nothing represents the Kerala Backwaters like the houseboats. It's comparable to a floating house because it contains amenities that are fit for a room, such as a dining area, a lounge area, and spaces for sleeping. There are different types to choose from depending on a tourist's budget and preferences.
Because this is a popular tourist destination, many local folks have made hundreds of houseboats available for rent. While it's preferable to book in advance during peak season, visitors will have no problem finding an available houseboat regardless of when they schedule. The houseboat will float along the backwaters upon disembarking from a specific town (e.g., Alleppey). Tourists can choose which route to take when they book a houseboat.
- Peak Season: September to February
Although the water is calm, swimming is not recommended. However, tourists might be able to do some other water-related activities like canoeing and fishing. Some houseboats have provisions for this. Food and entertainment arrangements might be included in the package if you're staying in a premium houseboat. Chefs usually prepare local cuisine.
- 1 bedroom: $88 (deluxe), $115 (premium), $142 (luxury)
- 2 bedroom: $122 (deluxe), $162 (premium), $203 (luxury)
- 3 bedroom: $162 (deluxe), $216 (premium), $277 (luxury)
- 4 bedroom: $230 (deluxe), $284 (premium), $365 (luxury)
- Day trip: 10:30a.m. to 5:00p.m.
- Overnight stay: 10:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. next day
Houseboat bookings are available through the House Boat Pre-paid Counter, managed by DTPC. Backwater Tour packages are available for day trips and overnight stays, but take the overnight to make the most out of the experience.
Top 3 Houseboats
- Johnson's Homestay
- Spice Coast Cruises
- Soma Houseboat
Resorts
Resorts have popped up in surrounding towns. This one is perfect for people with motion sickness, fear of water, or are not interested in spending several hours away from solid ground. Kerala is quite a big state and is filled with different accommodations—from mid-priced to luxurious. Guests can still book day trips on a houseboat if the resort you're staying at is close to the backwaters. If you don't have plans to explore, you can rent a canoe and paddle around close to your hotel.
Niraamaya Retreat Surya Samudra
Niraamaya Retreat Surya Samudra is located in Kovalam, a place that is well-known for its beaches. They offer a variety of Ayurveda packages and curative treatments.
- Activities for kids
- Wedding
- Trivandrum Cultural Immersion
- Backwater Cruise
- Sunset Cruise
- Cooking Classes
Flamingo Boutique Villa
Flamingo Boutique Villa is located in Mararikulam, within the same district as the famous Alleppey backwaters. It is a beach resort that offers the following amenities and services:
- Swimming pool
- Houseboat
- Canoe
- Ayurvedic treatments
- Yoga sessions
Maadathil Cottages
Maadathil Cottages is one of the best vacation spots in Varkala. Away from the bustle of the town, the cottages offer guests a peaceful escape. This quaint escape offers the following amenities and services:
- Houseboat booking
- Tour packages
- Canal Trip
- Ayurvedic treatments
- Day trip packages
Other Attractions
Other than going on a houseboat cruise or checking in at a resort, there are other activities and sights that Kerala has to offer. For example, bird enthusiasts will enjoy the Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary, where they can hike along the trails while following bird trails.
Kerala has its festivals that are held to uphold its local traditions and customs. When you book your stay in Kerala, check if there are any upcoming festivals such as Onam, Navarathri, and Tiruvathira. Dates for these celebrations are not permanently fixed, so do further research or ask a tour organizer for information.
Those who want a more healing experience can opt to visit an Ayurveda center. Learn about the various diets, treatments, and massages that help heal the body holistically. These spas and facilities provide services that can help get a person started on this path or get them back on track.
- Mekosha Ayurveda Spasuites Retreat is a luxury facility. The Classic Ayurveda package costs about $150 per person.
- Soma Manaltheeram Ayurvedic Hospital. The Ayurvedic treatment package per person is about $65.
- Athreya Ayurvedic Center $110 daily rate for a single occupancy stay.
Have the vacation of a lifetime when you visit the backwaters of Kerala. With so many places to visit and lots of activities to look forward to, one visit won’t be enough. It is different from the more popular beach escape, but its charms keep local and international tourists coming back.