Are you one of the first time visitors to Kerala’s backwaters? If yes, then this blog is for you. There are several attractions in Kerala that are special and unique. You will not find them normally. Therefore, it is essential to know about them before you plan a trip to the “God’s Own Land”.
Houseboats in the backwater are a special way to explore the serene waterways of Kerala. As the boat flows through the calm water, you can relax and enjoy the lush greenery and the cool life of local residents.
And a houseboat is not the only thing you will find there. Other than that, you will have things like canoeing or local ferries, village walks, birdwatching, and most importantly, the authentic Kerala cuisine.
This is something that you should not miss in Kerala. The right time to go there is during the winter months, i.e., between November and February. The weather is pleasant, and you can spend a lot of time engaging in Kerala backwater experiences.
Here are the top five backwater experiences for first-time visitors.
Houseboat Cruise in Alleppey
Alleppey, which is also known as Alappuzha, is a popular tourist destination in Kerala. Along with many other interesting things, it also offers a unique and relaxing way to experience the Kerala backwaters. That is a Houseboat, which is traditionally called Kettuvallams.
It is not just a boat, but luxurious accommodation with bedrooms, a kitchen, and living areas. The cruise service offers both day and overnight stay.
The prime attraction of the Alleppy Houseboat ride is stunning views of the backwaters, beautiful landscapes, greenery around, and charming villages. Therefore, it is a highlight of any Kerala trip.
As you cruise through the serene backwaters, a network of canals, lagoons, and lakes brings picturesque views of the surrounding places.
You can hire a private houseboat or a shared houseboat. The shared option is budget friendly. The duration typically lasts for 6-8 hours. Many houseboat packages include activities, such as village visits, fishing, birdwatching, and so on.
Canoe Ride through Kumarakom Canals
A canoe ride through the Kumarakom canals is also a unique experience. You can explore Kerala backwaters through the narrow waterways. Specialties of Kumarakom are its scenic beauty, flora and fauna, and the daily activities of the villagers. One can choose between different choices such as sunrise cruise, midday cruise, and sunset cruise. Since canoes can navigate narrower canals that are inaccessible to larger boats, you will get a chance to have a closer look at the backwaters.
Village Life Experience in Kuttanad
Kuttanad is a place of incredible natural beauty and cultural richness. This is an enchanting region, which is called the ‘Rice Bowl of Kerala’. The place is nestled in the heart of Kerala state, along the majestic mountain range to the East and the Arabian Sea to the West.
Because of the unique topography, Kuttanad becomes an interesting place to enjoy. There is a vast network of interconnected canals, lakes, and lagoons.
The mesmerizing tapestry of emerald, green paddy fields, swaying palm trees, and sparkling backwaters are a special feature of Kuttanad.
When you visit this place, you can immerse yourself in the local culture. Houseboat cruises, village home stays, and interactions with the local community are interesting aspects of this place.
Sunset Views at Ashtamudi Lake
The whole state of Kerala is amazingly beautiful, but there are some places that are even more attractive.
Watching the sun set over the Ashtamudi Lake of Kerala is a memorable experience. This is a freshwater lake that has been attracting tourists from all over the world, both domestic and international. Kerala boat stay experience at Ashtamudu Lake is mesmerizing and memorable. The serenity and calmness of this place are just unbelievable.
Ashtamudi Lake is the second biggest lake in Kerala. The name of this lake originated from the eight channels that bring water to the lake. The topography of this place is described as a palm frond or an octopus.
There are various islands on the surface, and some of them are home to very small water-bound villages. A cruise along the waters of the lake offers you glimpses of the towns and villages of Kerala.
This place gives you an opportunity to soak in the beauty of lush surroundings by going for a boat ride. You can book the kerala tour package from a long list of tour operators, both government controlled and private.
Bird Watching at Pathiramanal Island
If you are a bird lover and searching for a place where you can enjoy some serious birdwatching, then Pathiramanal Island in Alappuzha district is the right place.
This is a lush green island in Vembanad Lake spread across more than ten acres. You will have a chance to see hundreds of rare migratory birds from different parts of the world. Not only that, but you will also see hundreds of plant species and various varieties of fish and insects. Large Cormorant, varieties of Heron, Egret, and Bittern.
You can also find Common Teals, Pheasant-tailed and Bronze-winged Jacanas, Stork-billed Kingfisher, and Watercock.
Other commonly found bird species are Whistling Duck, Cotton Pygmy Goose, Whiskered Tern, etc.
Remember, this island is accessible only by boat as it lies between the backwaters of Thaneermukkom and Kumarakom.
It falls under the Cherthala taluka. The other name of this island is Ananda Padmanabhan Thoppu and Pathira Thoppu.
Kerala’s backwaters offer a unique and tranquil experience when you cruise through the network of lagoons, lakes, and canals.
When you go there as a tourist, you can enjoy a whole range of activities.
There are traditional houseboats. You will be greatly impressed with the beauty of the place.
The backwaters are a paradise for bird lovers because they can spot a variety of birds, including migratory birds.
Another thing that makes backwaters interesting is that one can see the life of local people. It is a great experience to see the daily routine of the people living along the backwater shores.
Book a tour to Kerala backwaters to experience a different world.
