Kerala Backwaters

Alappuza (Alleppey) Backwaters

Alappuzha figures prominently on the tourist trail as one of the major centres for backwater boat trips, served by ferries to Quilon and Kottayam in particular. One of the best-known ports along the coast of Malabar, it is often referred to as the ‘Venice of the East’. Alappuzha has the peculiar geographical feature of having the water in level with the land. This gives the advantage of getting a closer look at the village life on shore while on a backwater ride.

Sailing along in a ‘kettuvallam’ (houseboat) through the enchanting backwaters of Alappuzha is sure to rob your heart. Palm fringed narrow canals winding through the vast expanse of paddy fields and the neat tiny hamlets lined up along either sides of the canals are sights one can never forget. One can glimpse Chinese fishing nets, flocks of ducks swimming around the banks and tiny birds flying across the sky. It is as close as one can get to feel the vibrant life in the countryside of God’s own country.

Kerala House Boats

It is indeed a novel experience to sail along the waterways in a houseboat that is all to yourself, but it could put a dent in your pocket. Boats can be chartered through the DTPC in Kollam and Alappuzha. Houseboats cater to the needs of groups (up to eight bunks) or couples (one or two double bedrooms). One can hire them either on a day basis or overnight, allowing you to cruise the Kollam-Alappuzha route over two days, mooring in the backwaters overnight.

Kuttanad Backwater in Kerala

Kuttanad lies sandwiched between the sea and the hills. Kuttanad is an amazing labyrinth of shimmering waterways composed of lakes, canals, rivers and rivulets. Lined with dense tropical greenery, it offers a glimpse into rural Kerala life-styles. The view changes from narrow canals and dense vegetation to open vistas and dazzling green paddy fields. Homes, farms, churches, mosques and temples can be seen among the trees. And if you are lucky you might catch the blue flash of a kingfisher or the green of a parakeet. Endless tranquility is yours for the taking here.