Deep Green Waters: Kerala Backwater Tours

 May 17 2010 | Category : Traveler | | (3) Comments Tweet

Land of greenery, Kerala is also known for its backwaters which are deep and tranquil. While there are backwaters even in the north and central Kerala, south Kerala is known for the widest and picturesque backwaters that lure tourists throughout the year. What one can experience while sailing through these peaceful water bodies is just pure joy of being afloat right in the bosom nature.

Over 900 Km of the Kerala backwaters are navigable and have been used for centuries by the local people for transportation. You can travel on these waterways on a traditional houseboat and enjoy the scenic beauty of the backwaters in Kerala, while on Kerala tour.

Kerala Backwater Tours: Photo by mehul.antani

Alappuzha Backwaters

Backwaters found in the southern district, Alappuzha have an exotic feel about them. Washed by the Arabian Sea, interlocked by a number of canals and bridges, the backwaters in this region is also know for the conduct of boat races. One of the most famous backwaters in this area is the Punnamada Kayal which stretches for miles touching greenery which will sooth you. Its a must visit place where the annual Nehru Trophy boat race takes place during the month of August-September .The long boats, designed to resemble snakes, can accommodate 120 people, making two rows of 60 each and their race would thrill you beyond imagination.

While on sale one can also have a stop at monuments of archaeological importance including Krishnapuram Temple, a two storied building displaying the typical Kerala style of architecture. The largest mural painting, Gajendra Miksham, is displayed in a museum here. One should also visit the Ambalapuzha Temple which will give you the finest tasting offering to God – payasam, a south Indian delicacy. A must visit place along the shores of the lake is St Andrew’s Church, a Portuhuese church which celebrated the feast of St Sebastian with all pomp and show. And do halt at Mullakkal Temple and Chettikulangara Bhagavathy temple, both situated on the banks of the backwaters.

Alappuzha Backwaters: Photo by mckaysavage

Kuttanad Backwaters

Kuttanad, the land of greenery and paddy fields lies sandwiched between the sea and the undulating hills. Kuttanad has 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 tranquillity is yours for the taking here.

Another unique feature of Kuttanad is that many of its fields are below sea level and one can even catch a glimpse of the low lying planes which are rich in greenery. While on tour of these backwaters, one can even be mesmerized by the numerous festivals which are celebrated by the village folk. Festivals including Moolam Kali the ones dedicated to St. Thomas are the prime attractions in the water world of Kuttanad. The region is spread across, Alapuzha, Pathanamtitta and Kottayam districts of Kerala. The place is accessible by road, boat or train from Cochin the nearest airport.

Kuttanad Backwaters: Photo by Sarah and Iain

Kottayam Backwaters

A beautiful sailing destination, Kottayam district and its backwaters including, the majestic Vembanadu Lake should not be given a miss while on a trip to Kerala. Known as the land of lakes, latex and letters, Kottayam is that place which will welcome you with a warm broad smile. While sailing in these waters one should could also get a feel of the beautiful warm beverage, Toddy a natural alcohol made by fermenting palm sap.

While on sail do make sure to visit the famous churches of the place which are known for their architectural and historical backgrounds. St Mary’s church and the St Joseph’s monastery should not be given a miss by art lovers and believers. Some of the famous temples on the shores of the backwaters here include Ettumanoor Shiva Temple known for its paintings and sculptures and also the Thirunakkara Mahadeva temple.

The nearest airport is at Cochin (Kochi) located 76 km from Kottayam. Another airport is at Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum) 160 km away. Kottayam is well connected with the major towns in and outside Kerala by an extensive rail network.

Kottayam Backwaters: Photo by DraconianRain

Kollam Backwaters

This historic coastline district is known for Ashtamudi Lake, a backwater which stretches over 30 per cent of the town area. The lake is the gateway to most of the other backwaters in the area. The backwater tour from Kollam to Alappuzha is the longest cruise in Kerala that takes over 8 hours of pleasurable sailing. This stretch which is covered with the ever blooming lotuses and water lilies attracts tourists from across the globe.

While on sail one should not miss, the 144 ft Thangassery light house, built in 1902 which is a major attraction for those on tour. The Ananda Valleeswaram Temple should also not be left out. There are several Churches and Mosques including Pullichira Church established in 1700 A.D where one could set foot.

Nearest Airport is the one in Thiruvananthapuram (71 km).Kollam is an important railhead of the Southern Railway. An excellent road network links Kollam to all major towns and cities in Kerala.

Kollam Backwaters: Photo by VinothChandar(AWAY)

Kochi Backwaters

Popularly known as the Queen of Arabian Sea, Kochi is a cluster of islands on the vast expanse of the Vembanad Lake. Some of these picturesque islands on the shores of the lake include Bolgatty, Vypeen, Gundu, and Vallarpadam. It has a fine natural harbour around which the city has grown.

On the shore of the lake stands the Bolghatty Palace, built by the Dutch centuries ago. The Bolghatty Island has a fine golf course and the panoramic view makes it an attractive picnic spot. Also a must stop location is the Dutch Palace which has a fine collection of mural paintings depicting the scenes from the Hindu epics Mahabharatha and Ramayana. While on sail one would also get to watch, Chinese fishing nets which are found only in this part of the state.

Cochin is connected by Indian Airlines to Delhi, Bombay, Madras, Goa, Bangalore and Trivandrum. It is connected by rail to all the major cities in India.

Kochi Backwaters: Photo by Koshyk

Kumarakom Backwaters

Kumarakom is one of the well known backwater destinations in Kerala. Boating and fishing facilities are available at the Tourist retreats in Kumarakom. The village of Kumarakom is a cluster of little islands on the Vembanad Lake and is also part of the Kuttanad region.

The bird sanctuary here is a favourite haunt of migratory birds. The best way to watch the birds of the Kumarakom sanctuary is a boat trip round the islands. Egrets, darters, herons, teal, waterfowl, cuckoo, wild duck and migratory birds like the Siberian stork that live here could be seen flying over the vast horizon when one is on sail.

Vallamkali, the famous Snake Boat Race takes place in these waters during the festival of Onam. Magnificently decorated long boats with raised sterns that resemble the raised hood of cobras rush through these waters thrilling the cheering audience. Kettuvallamswhich are huge, tapering barges, traditionally used to cargo rice and other goods across are found in this region. Cochin International Airport is about 76 km from Kottayam town. Kottayam rail station is about 16 km from Kumarakom.

Kumarakom Backwaters: Photo by sanjoyg

Kozhikode Backwaters

The unexplored backwaters of Kozhikode hold promises of enchanting holiday locations. The scenic Elathur, Canolly Canal and Kallai River are favourite haunts for boating. Kadalundi, with its beautiful bird sanctuary is a charming site where sea meets river. Korapuzha, the venue of the Korapuzha Jalotsavam is becoming a popular water sport destination.

While in Calicut also visit, Pazhassirajah Museum which exhibits copies of ancient mural paintings, antique bronzes, old coins and models of temples. The Art Gallery is near to the museum has an excellent collection of paintings of Raja Ravi Varma. Ettumanoor Temple located here is famous for its legendary 16th century heritage. Nearest airport is Karipur International Airport which is 23 km from Kozhikode town. Nearest railway station is Kozhikode, located in the heart of the city.

Kozhikode Backwaters: Photo by dhruvaraj