The coastal regions of Kerala have a network of waterways, inlets from the sea, and estuaries of over forty rivers, lakes and natural canals connecting coastal towns. This interli
Many unique species of aquatic life including crabs, frogs and mudskippers, water birds such as terns, kingfishers, darters and cormorants, and animals such as otters and turtles live in and alongside the backwaters in Kerala. Palm trees, pandanus shrubs, various leafy plants and bushes are a common feature along the Kerala backwaters, colouring the surrounding landscape, a rich green.
Cruise the backwaters for an unforgettable experience that lets you delve into nature’s magical realm.
Click to view places within each district.
Kuttanad Backwaters , Alappuzha
The beautiful backwaters of Kuttanad are famous for their Kettuvalloms(Houseboats). There are several villages in the Kuttanad region and people travel from one place to the other by boats. Vendors even go from house to house on their boats to sell vegetables, fish and small household goods. This serene...  |
Kannur Backwaters , Kannur
| Kannur is endowed with sufficient number of rivers. Valapattanam River which originates from Western Ghats is the longest river in the district. Most of the rivers are navigable. Anjarakany, Kuppam, Mahe and Thalassery are the other rivers. A cruise down the backwaters of Kannur provides a fascinating... |
Chandragiri and Valiyaparamba , Kasargod
| With the Sea to the West and Western Ghats to the North and East, Kasargod Backwaters offers a holiday of a lifetime. Two of the famous Backwater Cruise options on the kettuvalloms (houseboats) are Chandragiri and Valiyaparamba. Amidst other things, the vantage sunset point is a must see for everyone... |
Ashtamudi Lake , Kollam
As its name suggests, the Ashtamudi Lake is the congregation of eight backwaters (Ashta= Eight, Mudi= Branch). It is known as the gateway to the well known Kerala Backwaters. It is also a popular destination for houseboat cruises. The peaceful environment coupled with the striking beauty of the place... |
Alumkadavu Boat Building Yard , Kollam
Situated on the northern backwaters of Kollam, Karunagappally is the place where the ‘kettuvalloms’ better known as the houseboats, are made. A boat building and repairing centre, it is also the best place to see coir being made. |
Alumkadavu Backwaters , Kollam
| If you are fascinated by a ‘kettuvallam’ or houseboat cruise down the backwaters, then Alumkadavu is the place to be. A backwater village in Karunagapally - just 23 kms from Kollam - is where it all begins. A hub of the Kettuvallam building industry, Karunagapally has hundreds of artisans... |
Kumarakom Backwaters , Kottayam
| The village of Kumarakom is a cluster of little islands on the Vembanad Lake, and this small water world is part of the Kuttanad region. An enchanting backwater destination, Kumarakom offers visitors many other leisure options. Boating and fishing facilities are available at Kumarakom. Holiday packages... |
Kozhikode Backwaters , Kozhikode
| The backwaters of Kozhikode are a great holiday destination. The Canoli canal and the River Kallai are good for boating while the bird sanctuary at Kadalundi is fast becoming a favourite with bird-watchers and nature lovers. Nearby is Korapuzha, where the Korapuzha Jalotsavam, a water sports festival,... |
Thiruvallam Backwaters , Thiruvananthapuram
| Situated just 6 kms from Thiruvananthapuram, Thiruvallam is a popular tourist backwater destination. This serene backwater stretch is also very popular for its canoe rides. Killi and Karamana are the two rivers that come together at Thiruvallam to offers its spectators a breathtaking view. A temple dedicated... |
Veli Aakulam Lagoon , Thiruvananthapuram
| Veli Aakulam Lagoon is at the confluence of the Veli Lake and the Arabian Sea. The lagoon can be explored at leisure with pedal boats and paddle boats. It is situated at a short distance from Thiruvananthapuram. Even speedboats are available on hire. |
