Experience the Beauty of Top 5 Backwater Lakes in Kerala

If one travels through the landscape of Kerala a clear picture of the rivers and waterbodies that slice through the terrain of Kerala will be very clear. One of the distinctive features of Kerala is its backwater. The land of Kerala is located in between the Arabian Sea in the West and the Western Ghats in the East. Kerala backwaters are a network of rivers, canals, and lakes that run parallel to the coastline of southern Kerala.

These backwaters were once an important way of transportation in Kerala and it was through these channels passengers and cargo were transported from one place to another.  Major lakes in Kerala are Vembanad Lake, Ashtamudi Lake, Kavvayi Backwaters, and Sasthamkotta Lake. Vembanad is the largest of the lakes with brackish water and Sasthamkotta Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Kerala. The most unique feature of Kerala backwater is that it is home to rare and unique aquatic species. To experience the beauty of backwaters in Kerala and to enjoy its vivid features plan a trip to explore the mesmerizing feel.  

1. Alleppey

It is one of the best backwaters in Kerala to enjoy the trip and that's why it tops the list in backwater destination. If you are looking for the best way to explore the backwater of Alleppey then the only option is to spend a day and night in the houseboat. In a houseboat, you have all the amenities, bedroom, restroom and all the features that are available in a typical hotel room. By 5 P.M boats will be parked and after that Kerala Transport doesn't allow private boats to commute. 

You can explore the beauty of Alleppey not only in a houseboat but also there are other ways to explore it. Small Motor Boats, Paddling boats and Government ferries are there. The best time to visit the Alleppey is during the Aranmula Snake Boat Race.

2. Kollam 

Kollam has a beautiful water canal with coconut trees lined on both sides of the bank. The Backwater of Kollam is very interesting and it has a historical significance as it is was one of the oldest transportation as Kollam is one of the oldest ports. It was through this inland waterways, goods are transported to and fro to the inner lands. Ashtamudi Lake is the main lake flowing through Kollam. Kollam to Alleppey is the longest houseboat cruise in Kerala, that lasts for 8 hours.  Rent a car in Kollam at affordable prices - Door Delivery Available!

3. Kumarakom

Kumarakom is situated along the enchanting Vembanad Lake, is 16 Km from Kottayam.  Kumarakom enchants you more than any other backwater. It gives an amazing view of paddy fields, Mangrove forests, and water lilies. Kumarakom has a lot to offer for a nature lover. Kumarakom is actually a cluster of little islands on the Vembanad Lake. 

The major attractions in Kumarakom are the Bird Sanctuary which is home to rare birds. The most popular and favorite among the tourists to explore Kumarakom is the boat ride through the canals and small water lines. To know the life of people living in and around Kumarakom is a thrilling experience. They mostly own their own boats that have to be rowed manually. Moreover, the best way to enjoy Kumarakom backwaters is the houseboat stay. 

4. Kuttanad 

Kuttanad is situated in Alappuzha district of Kerala. It has the peculiarity of lying below sea level and also known as "The Rice bowl of Kerala". In Kuttanad, the backwater is vibrant with tourist activities. This beautiful place is crisscrossed with waterways and it has farms lying lower than the water level. Kuttanad offers a unique and different lifestyle to the tourists. You can do a backwater tour to watch the life of locals and their activities without interfering it.  

Vembanad Lake flows through this beautiful place and four major rivers drain to this lake.  Kuttanad is one of the few places in Kerala which shows the glorious agricultural tradition of Kerala. The nearby attractions are Pathiramanal Island, Karumadikuttan, Aruvikkuzhi waterfall, Alappuzha town (food & shopping), Alappuzha beach, Marari beach, Ambalapuzha temple, Krishnapuram Palace, Arthunkal, Mullackal Temple, and  Chavara Bhavan.

5. Kasaragod

The backwater in Kasargod is the northernmost destination in Kerala with the backwater. The backwater tour is possible in Chandragiri and Valiyaparamba. There are many beautiful small islands in this backwater stretch. This strip of backwater is less crowded and is ideal for an idyllic and peaceful trip. Those who are interested in exploring the not so mainstream destination can try the backwater of Kasargod.