The whole world may halt but the canals flow. This is one good way to put about Kerala Backwaters. Kerala, God’s own country as its termed has always been an ideal destination for romantic getaways as well as family tours. Its rich culture and sparkling backwaters have always been in the limelight for their beauty. So we are going to explore the 10 best Kerala Backwaters that you should not miss visiting when you are in Kerala.
10 Best Kerala Backwaters
Valiyaparamba backwaters, Kasaragod
Located in Kasaragod, the northernmost district of Kerala, the Valiyaparamba backwaters is one of the most beautiful and enchanting backwaters of Kerala. Valiyaparamba Backwaters are formed by four rivers and is dotted by a little island. It is located 12 km away from Payyanur Railway Station and this is also the closest Railway Station from where you can get to Valiyaparamba. When you are here make sure to take a ferry ride to the Bekal Fort. If you are quite adventurous go on a hike in the Mangrove Trail of Malabar.
Kavvayi Backwater, Payyanur
Payyanur being well connected with Train is quite easy to reach and is also home to the largest backwaters found in the northern part of Kerala. Here, you can find some exquisite houseboats giving you an opportunity to hop on with your loved ones and at the same time explore the vast diversity of scenery around. When you are around here make sure to visit ‘Edayilakadu’ Island where there is a dedicated forest to worship holy snakes and you can’t find something like this anywhere else in the world.
Marine Drive, Kochi
Marine Drive in Kochi is quite unique and filled with nature unlike the one in Mumbai. It is packed with a perfect backdrop of the cool breeze arising from the Backwaters and exquisite nightlight of the city. Take time to spend your evenings enjoying the sunsets from here. Roam around the beautiful cafes around Marine Drive. For a relaxing full-filled evening make sure to visit this place
Padanna Backwaters, Kasaragod
Padanna Backwaters is the most tranquil backwaters while taking a visit to the Padanna Village. This is a themed village in Kerala and is the center of oyster harvesting, which also happens to be a predominant occupation here. Though people can enjoy houseboat tours, tourists can also engage in mussel farming which is a highlight of this place. The local cuisine is prepared to utilize the locally harvested mussels. This place is also famous for its manmade forest which is spread over 32 acres and has various plantations like coconut, areca nut, spices, and cashew trees.
Thiruvallam Backwaters, Thiruvananthapuram
Very famous for its water adventures activities like kayaking and canoeing Thiruvallam backwaters offer exotic backwaters. You can enjoy your ride on kettuvaloms. Besides water sports, floating bridges and short village cruises are must-visit experiences to indulge here. Other major attractions here include Parashuram Temple where the locals worship the mythological created of Kerala and the coir manufacturing industries where you can get a deep insight into the beautiful craft of building houseboats.
Ashtamudi Backwaters, Kollam
Ashtamudi Backwaters are created by eight different channels, forming the second large must backwaters in Kerala. This 16 km long lake provides an excellent network to all the prominent backwaters in Kerala. Some premium stay options include ‘Palm Lagoon Backwater Resort’ and ‘Aquaserene Backwater Resort’. You can also spend a day or two on the houseboats or the floating huts.
Alumkadavu, Kollam
Alumkadavu, The birthplace of the houseboats which are found all around Kerala Backwaters. These Houseboats are created by some of the finest and highly skilled craftsmen with ecofriendly materials which makes Kerala even more special. A lot of coir industries operate around this area and you can take a day or two from your itinerary and spend some time at the coir manufacturing industry to learn more about how these houseboats are made and understand the amount of work that’s put in.
Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom
Vembanad Lake is a very famous spot for picnics, fishing, boating, and sightseeing. This lake has gained a lot of attention from tourists all around the world for its scenic beauty and the snake race that takes place in this lake during the Onam season. If you are here during that time make sure to witness the prestigious snake boat races where you can see 100 men rowing a single boat and rushing their way through these calm backwaters. Kumarakom bird sanctuary is another major tourist attraction where you can spend your afternoon with mother nature.
Sasthamkotta Backwaters
Sasthamkotta known as Queen of Lakes is the largest lake in the state of Kerala surrounded by hills on three sides. This lake is also worshipped by the people of Kerala and has very religious importance among the local people. Feeding fruits and nuts to the monkeys at the Sastha temple is considered a holy ritual. This place offers beautiful locations for boating and fishing as well, If you are not too religious try doing this!
Pathiramanal Backwaters
Considered as Bird watching people’s paradise, Pathiramanal Backwaters is a temporary residence to hundreds of birds migrating from different parts of the world. People can indulge in hours of bird watching with the backdrop of mesmerizing backwaters. You can see different kinds of bird species Pintail Ducks, Common Teal, Night Heron, Cormorant, Darter, Indian Shag. Pathiramanal extends from the Alappuzha to Kochi. You can visit the Krishnapuram Palace to enjoy the magnificent architecture, history, and culture of our country. If you have more time make sure to spend some time on the Alappuzha beach!
Kerala as a state has always been a jewel to this country in all terms starting from its culture, food, atmosphere, and people. It will be a place you will never regret visiting or exploring. Visit Pickyourtrail to and customize your Kerala vacation. Until then, Happy Planning!!