Destination of the Month: The Kerala Backwaters
If you’re looking for a serene escape into nature, where life moves at a slower pace, then the Kerala backwaters are the perfect destination. A network of tranquil lagoons, winding canals, and lush greenery, the backwaters offer a unique glimpse into rural South India, where traditional houseboats glide past coconut palms and village life unfolds along the water’s edge.
A visit here is a chance to experience Kerala’s rich culture, from vibrant local communities to its legendary cuisine. Whether you’re drifting along in a private houseboat or immersing yourself in the ‘Village Life Experience,’ the Kerala backwaters promise an unforgettable journey.
A Brief History of the Kerala Backwaters
The Kerala backwaters stretch over 900km, interlinking five large lakes, dozens of rivers, and a maze of canals. Historically, these waterways were vital trade routes, transporting spices, coir, and other goods across the region. Today, they remain an essential part of life for local communities who use them for fishing, farming, and transport.
One of the most famous aspects of the backwaters is the kettuvallam, a traditional wooden houseboat once used to carry rice and spices. Now converted into luxurious floating homes, these boats allow travellers to explore the backwaters in comfort, offering an authentic yet relaxing way to experience this unique landscape
Best Time to Visit
The best time to explore Kerala’s backwaters is from October to March, when the weather is pleasantly cool, with temperatures ranging from 23°C to 30°C. The monsoon season (June to September) brings heavy rains, making it a beautiful but wetter experience.
If you want to witness Kerala’s famous Nehru Trophy Boat Race, plan your visit for August. This thrilling event sees massive snake boats race across the waters, creating an electrifying atmosphere.
Must-See Experiences in the Kerala Backwaters
Private Houseboat Stay
A houseboat cruise through the Kerala backwaters is the ultimate way to experience this region. Drifting past emerald-green rice paddies, tiny fishing villages, and swaying coconut trees, you’ll enjoy a peaceful retreat far from the bustle of city life. Most houseboats come with a private chef, offering freshly prepared local dishes, including Kerala’s famous seafood curries.
Luxury houseboats provide modern comforts while still retaining their traditional charm, with spacious bedrooms, open-air decks, and even candlelit dinners under the stars. Alleppey (Alappuzha) is the most popular starting point for houseboat trips, but Kumarakom and Kollam also offer fantastic options.
Village Life Experience
For a deeper cultural experience, the Village Life Experience offers a chance to interact with locals and witness the traditional way of life along the backwaters. You can:
- Watch skilled artisans weave coir (coconut fibre) into ropes and mats.
- Visit small-scale farms and see how locals cultivate spices, bananas, and paddy fields.
- Take a canoe ride through narrow canals where larger houseboats cannot reach.
- Enjoy a meal with a local family, tasting authentic Kerala home cooking.
This experience offers an intimate look at life in Kerala’s villages, providing a contrast to the more luxurious houseboat stays.
Where to Stay
There are plenty of incredible stays in and around the backwaters, from high-end resorts to eco-friendly retreats.
Coconut Lagoon, Kumarakom – A luxury eco-resort set amidst coconut groves and accessible only by boat. It’s known for its stunning Kerala-style heritage villas and Ayurvedic wellness treatments.
Kumarakom Lake Resort – Nestled in the peaceful banks of Lake Vembanad, this tranquil spot offers guests traditional Kerala architecture, whilst it overlooks the jade green backwaters.
Houseboat – The ultimate way to see the Kerala backwaters with modern amenities and personalised service.
What to Eat
Kerala’s cuisine is a delightful mix of spices, coconut, and fresh seafood. Don’t miss:
- Karimeen Pollichathu – Pearl spot fish marinated in spices and wrapped in banana leaves before being grilled.
- Appam with Stew – Soft, lacy rice pancakes served with a fragrant coconut milk-based vegetable or meat stew.
- Puttu and Kadala Curry – A breakfast favourite featuring steamed rice cakes with spicy black chickpea curry.
- Toddy (Kallu) – A locally brewed coconut palm wine, best enjoyed in traditional toddy shops.
How to Get There
The backwaters are easily accessible from major cities in Kerala:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport (COK), around 75km from Alleppey. Trivandrum International Airport (TRV) is another option for reaching southern backwaters.
- By Train: Alleppey, Kottayam, and Kollam have well-connected railway stations, with regular trains from major Indian cities.
By Road: Kerala’s road network is excellent, with taxis and buses connecting backwater destinations to Kochi, Trivandrum, and beyond.
Final Thoughts
The backwaters of Kerala offer a magical escape, where life moves at the gentle rhythm of the water. Whether you choose to relax on a private houseboat or explore village traditions up close, this region is sure to leave you enchanted. A journey here isn’t just about sightseeing – it’s about experiencing a slower, more meaningful way of life.
Ready to explore the Kerala backwaters? Contact us today!
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