India Backwaters Kochi Kerala Travel Guide

Kochi, the Queen of the Arabian Sea, is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to India's Kerala state. The city is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty.

The backwaters of Kochi are a network of waterways that stretch across the city and into the surrounding countryside. This unique ecosystem is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna.

One of the best ways to experience the backwaters is by taking a traditional houseboat, known as a "kettuvallam." These boats have been used for centuries to transport goods and people along the waterways.

The backwaters of Kochi are a popular destination for tourists, but they're also a vital part of the local economy and way of life.

You can take a houseboat tour in Kerala's backwaters, which is a popular tourist attraction. More than 2,000 of these houseboats, known as Kettuvallam, ply the waterways.

These traditional boats were used to transport grain and have been converted to accommodate tourists. They have a sleeping area, western-style toilets, a dining area, and a sit-out on the deck. Most tourists spend the night on a houseboat.

Food is cooked on board by the accompanying staff, often with a flavor of Kerala. The living-dining room is usually open on at least three sides, providing a grand view of the surroundings. The houseboats are motorized but generally proceed at a slow speed for smooth travel.

You can also take a public ferry service operated by the Kerala State Water Transport Department, which is a cheap and scenic way to explore the backwaters. The journey time is around two hours one-way, with numerous daily departures.

Public water transport is a fantastic way to explore the Kerala backwaters without breaking the bank. You can take a local public ferry service operated by the Kerala State Water Transport Department, which costs only about 50 cents for a round trip.

The journey time is around two hours one-way, with numerous daily departures. The ferry service passes through several small canals and villages, giving you a glimpse into rural life.

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One of the ferries, the Aditya, is a solar-powered ferry that won the prestigious Gustave Trouve Award for Excellence in Electric Boats and Boating in 2020. It currently runs between Thavanakadavu in Alleppey district and Vaikom in Kottayam district.

You can take the ferry from Alleppey to Kottayam, or to other destinations like Nedumudy and Krishnapuram. There are small restaurants on the jetties along the waterways where you can grab a bite to eat.

The Kerala State Water Transport Department also offers a water taxi service, which commenced in October 2020. These high-speed solar-powered catamarans have seating for up to 10 passengers and operate in Alleppey district. You can book them by calling 9400-050325 or 9400-050322.

Here are some popular ferry routes and their approximate journey times:

Note that the journey times are approximate and may vary depending on the route and the number of stops.

Booking a tour in Kerala can be a bit overwhelming, but don't worry, I've got some insider tips to help you navigate the process.

First, make sure to check the houseboat's classification rating, which can be Silver, Gold, or Diamond, indicating its adherence to eco-friendly and responsible practices.

The ratings take into account factors such as responsible waste management, disability-friendly features, and use of eco-friendly materials, so look for a houseboat with a high rating to ensure a sustainable experience.

It's also essential to verify that the houseboat has been properly registered and classified by the Keralan government.

To do this, ask your tour operator or houseboat provider for proof of registration and classification, and make sure it meets the new houseboat classification system standards.

The backwater regions of Kerala are a treasure trove of natural beauty. Alleppey, in particular, is a hotspot for movie filming, with its picturesque backwaters serving as a stunning backdrop.

If you're planning to explore the backwaters, you'll want to know about the types of boats available. According to the article, there are several types of boats, but unfortunately, the specific types are not listed.

You can find backwater regions and places in various parts of the world. The Amazon rainforest in South America is an example of a vast and remote area that is often considered a backwater region.

The Amazon River flows through Brazil, Peru, and Colombia, and its basin is home to many indigenous communities. These communities have developed unique cultures and ways of life that are adapted to the region's dense rainforest environment.

The Appalachian region in eastern North America is another example of a backwater area. It is a mountainous region that was once heavily industrialized, but has since experienced economic decline and population loss.

In the United States, many rural areas in states like West Virginia and Kentucky are considered backwater regions. These areas often struggle with poverty, lack of access to education and healthcare, and limited economic opportunities.

The Scottish Highlands are a sparsely populated region in northern Scotland that is often referred to as a backwater area. The region has a rich cultural heritage and a strong sense of community, but it also faces challenges related to economic development and population decline.

Village Tours are a great way to experience the authentic culture and charm of the backwater regions. You can take a country boat tour or canoe trip to villages along the narrower Kerala backwaters.

Kerala Kayaking offers guided kayaking tours along the backwaters, departing from Alleppey. Cycling around villages is also possible with this company.

Alleppey Shikara Boats provides sunrise, sunset, and day tours in motorized shikara country boats, departing from Alleppey. This is a great way to see the backwaters at different times of day.

Salmon Tours specializes in village backwater day tours in country boats, houseboats, and speedboats, departing from Kochi. They offer a variety of options to suit your interests and preferences.

Southern Backwaters Tours offers guided canoe trips to Monroe Island near Kollam, where you can explore the stunning narrow canals. Munroe Island Backwaters Homestay provides inexpensive accommodations there.

If you want to experience traditional Kerala life, you can visit the fishing village canals near Nattakam. Here, you can explore the picturesque waterways, bustling fishing activities, and authentic village charm.

In Nattakam, you can also visit the Munroe lighthouse, built in 1885, which guides ships with its striking beacon. The lighthouse offers panoramic views of the Kerala coastline and the Arabian Sea.

Here are some recommended Village Tour operators:

The backwaters of Kerala are a sight to behold. This network of waterways and lakes stretches across the state, offering a unique and breathtaking experience.

Kollam is a major starting point for the backwater waterways, with the Ashtamudi Kayal covering about 30% of the city. This large freshwater lake is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the backwaters.

The backwaters are also home to numerous boat races, which are a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike. You can experience the thrill of these races firsthand by visiting Kuttanad, a region known for its vast paddy fields and boat racing traditions.

In Kuttanad, you can also explore the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, located on the east coast of Vembanad Lake. This sanctuary is a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers, with hundreds of species of birds calling it home.

Here are some of the key places to visit in the backwater regions of Kerala:

The backwaters offer a unique glimpse into rural Kerala, with its traditional villages, fishing activities, and authentic charm. You can experience this charm by visiting Nattakam, a fishing village where canals meet and traditional Kerala life is on full display.

The term "backwater" often conjures up images of rural areas far removed from the hustle and bustle of city life. Many backwater regions are indeed located in remote areas with limited access to modern amenities.

The word "the" is a definite article used to refer to a specific noun, and in the context of backwater regions, it's often used to describe a particular place or area. The article section on "Backwater Regions and Places" highlights the importance of this term in understanding these areas.

In many backwater regions, the road network is limited and often in poor condition, making it difficult to travel to and from these areas. The lack of infrastructure is a common feature of backwater regions worldwide.

The use of "the" in describing backwater regions emphasizes the idea that these areas are often isolated and disconnected from the rest of the world. The article section on "Backwater Regions and Places" provides more information on this topic.

Itineraries for India's backwaters can be subject to change due to seasonal weather conditions and varying water levels. This means navigation routes, times, and excursions may need to be modified at the cruise captain's or your guide's discretion.

Our itineraries will give you suggestions for what is possible when you travel in the backwaters, but treat them as inspiration - your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists. Suggested itineraries featuring the backwaters showcase routes that work particularly well.

A three-night houseboat trip will cover the top canals, interior villages, and more remote waterways, giving you a more immersive experience of rural life. You can combine a houseboat trip with a stay at a resort or homestay along the backwaters, offering flexibility and relaxation.

A three-night trip is a great way to experience the full beauty of Kerala's backwaters, covering the top canals, interior villages, and more remote waterways.

You can choose a one-day or overnight trip, but keep in mind that a brief three-hour trip may not be sufficient if you want to see a lot of the small canals or experience rural life.

Houseboat trips can be combined with a stay at a resort or homestay along the backwaters, offering overnight and sunset cruises.

Just remember that the boats must be moored after sunset, so fishing activity isn't disturbed.

When planning your trip, it's essential to understand that itineraries can change due to seasonal weather conditions.

All itineraries are subject to change, so be prepared for flexibility in your trip plans.

Seasonal weather conditions can cause variations in river and tributary water levels, affecting accessibility to certain locations.

Navigation routes, times, and excursions may need to be modified at the discretion of the cruise captain or your guide.

It's not uncommon for river cruises to adjust their itineraries on short notice, so stay flexible and be open to new experiences.

Our suggested itineraries for the Backwaters will give you a unique travel experience. They showcase routes that work particularly well, and our specialists will create a trip tailored to your interests.

If you're looking to explore the region around Alleppey, our itineraries will take you to the beautiful Marari beach, where you can relax in a fishing village with a range of accommodations.

The lush hilly region of Kerala's Idukki district is a must-visit, with attractions like Periyar National Park, spice plantations at Kumily, and local tribal villages waiting to be discovered.

For adventure enthusiasts, our itineraries include trekking to Chembra Peak and Meenmutty Falls, as well as bamboo rafting at Kuruva Island.

Kochi, the gateway to Kerala's backwaters, offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets.

You can choose from a variety of houseboats, ranging from basic to luxurious, with prices starting from around ₹8,000 per night.

Amenities in Kochi's accommodations include air conditioning, en-suite bathrooms, and comfortable beds.

Many hotels and resorts in Kochi offer stunning views of the backwaters and surrounding landscape.

Getting around Kochi is relatively easy, with plenty of auto-rickshaws and taxis available.

We've carefully curated a selection of accommodations for the Backwaters, each chosen for its unique character, excellent facilities, and top-notch service or prime location. Our specialists always strive to recommend properties that fit your individual preferences.

Our choices include a range of options that come highly recommended by travelers and locals alike. We've taken the time to research and select only the best, ensuring that you have a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

Accommodations can be found in various styles, from traditional Kerala homes to modern resorts. These properties are often situated in picturesque settings, such as on the water's edge or amidst lush greenery. We've got options to suit every taste and budget.

For a truly immersive experience, consider staying in a traditional homestay or guesthouse. These family-run establishments offer a glimpse into local life and are often located in quiet, rural areas.

The backwaters in Kerala are a 900-odd kilometre labyrinth of canals that connect large regions of the state.

A traditional Keralan houseboat is made by tying pieces of wood together with coir rope, made from coconut fibres, and is called a kettuvallam.

You can expect to see homes, paddy fields, coconut groves, churches, temples, toddy shops, and wildlife while gliding past on a houseboat trip.

Departure points for a houseboat cruise vary, but you can expect to start from a designated location along the backwaters.

The duration of a houseboat trip can range from an overnight stay to multi-day cruises, giving you ample time to soak in the serene surroundings.

Here are some essential details to consider when planning your houseboat trip:

A Keralan houseboat trip provides a fascinating glimpse into everyday activities like commuting, fishing, and farming, making it a unique and memorable experience.

To experience the serene beauty of the India backwaters, Kochi, Kerala is a top destination. You can hire a traditional Kerala-style houseboat, known as a kettuvallam, for a quintessential Kerala experience. A day trip or overnight stay on the boat is a great way to relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.

There are various ways to explore the backwaters, including staying at a resort, hotel, or homestay along the waterways. Many accommodations offer their own houseboats for overnight and sunset cruises. Alternatively, you can take a public ferry service operated by the State Water Transport Department for a budget-friendly option.

For a more intimate experience, consider taking a tour in a smaller local boat, canoe, or kayak to villages along the narrower canals. This provides a unique glimpse into local life and allows you to explore areas inaccessible to larger houseboats.

If you're looking to experience the tranquil and relaxing backwaters of Kerala, hiring a traditional Kerala-style houseboat, known as a kettuvallam, is a quintessential experience. You can either go on a day trip or stay overnight on the boat.

To make the most of your time, consider combining your houseboat trip with staying at a resort, hotel, or homestay along the backwaters. Many resorts and luxury hotels have their own houseboats and offer overnight and sunset cruises.

Some recommended accommodations near Alleppey include Palmy Lake Resort and Lemon Dew Homestay, which offer affordable options for those on a budget. For a more upmarket experience, consider Ourland Island Backwater Resort or Warmth Lake Haven.

If you're looking for an even more immersive experience, consider taking a tour in a smaller local boat, such as a country boat or canoe, to villages along the narrower canals. This will give you a more intimate and authentic experience of the Keralan backwaters.

Here are some popular departure points for houseboat trips:

Note: The best time to visit the backwaters is during the monsoon season (June to August) for a more peaceful and serene experience.

Kerala's beaches are a treasure trove of scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage.

The state's unique location on the Malabar Coast makes it a haven for beach lovers, with crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand beaches that are perfect for relaxation.

One of the most popular beach destinations in Kerala is the Marari Beach, known for its tranquil atmosphere and picturesque sunsets.

Marari Beach is also a great spot for water sports and activities, such as swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

The beach town of Varkala is another must-visit destination, with its stunning cliff-top views and laid-back vibe.

In Varkala, you can also explore the Janardanaswami Temple, a beautiful ancient temple perched on a cliff overlooking the Arabian Sea.

Kerala's beaches are also steeped in history and culture, with many temples and festivals celebrating the state's rich heritage.

The state's unique folk art forms, such as Kathakali and theyyam, are often performed at beachside festivals and events.

Overall, Kerala's beaches offer a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and relaxation, making them a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the state.

To book a Keralan backwater tour, you'll want to check the houseboat's registration and classification. The Keralan government now uses a rating system of Silver, Gold, and Diamond.

When booking with a houseboat operator or tour company, make sure to ask about the houseboat's rating and registration. This ensures you're choosing a responsible and well-maintained option.

The Silver, Gold, and Diamond ratings take into account factors like responsible waste management and eco-friendly materials. This means you can expect a more sustainable and comfortable experience.

It's also a good idea to ask about the houseboat's features, such as LED lamps, biogas stoves, smoke alarms, and first-aid kits. These are all part of the Diamond rating criteria.