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The backwaters of Kerala are wonderlands where water occupies more earth surface than land. People live in tiny islands that comprises just their house and a farm. They commute through the village and outside via water channels using their own boats. A lot of their life is spent on water.



Picture by Aparna Kunde on oktatabyebye

The abundant water lands coupled with tall coconut trees and the triangular Chinese fishing nets constitute the picturesque landscape of Kerala Backwaters. Tourists can spend nights floating on the water in Kettavallam or house boats - comfortable rooms in self sufficient boats with bed rooms, kitchen and sit-outs.

Most of these backwaters are located around the towns of Alappuzha (Alleppey) or Kumarakom.

Know more about Kerala backwaters

The Season

Weather in Kerala is unkind to visitors for more than half the year. Summers can be very hot and humid. When the monsoon begins, it pours continuously and sun rarely comes out. Come winter, from November to February, Kerala is a beautiful place to be in. The glorious winter sunsets paint the backwaters in hues or red and orange, adding a drama to the already colourful landscape.

The Boat Races

Annual boat races in the backwaters attracts large crowds. The long snake boats are driven by a large team of enthusiastic participants. Nehru Trophy Boat Race in Allapuzha is one of the most popular events in Kerala. Read more about Nehru Trophy Boat Race



Picture by Dharmendra Singh on oktatabyebye

Things to do and places to see

Alleppey is well known for its backwater cruises and the house boats. While you are cruising through the backwaters, you can see some traditional craft materials made of coir and savour some great Keralan food. Also visit the Alappuzha beach. You can see the Snake Boat Race if you are there at the later half of monsoon season. See more about Alappuzha.

Kumarakom is known for its luxurious resorts as much as it is known for the scenic beauty. Besides taking a boat in the backwaters of Vembanad Lake, you can also visit Komarakom Bird Sanctuary. Read more about Kumarakom on oktatabyebye.


Places to Stay

Some of the popular places to stay in Alleppy include Marari Fisherman Village Beach Resort and Lake Palace. Read complete list of hotels and user reviews for Hotels and Resorts in Alleppey.

Kumarakom is known for some of the finest accommodations in Kerala. Well known among them include Taj Garden Retreat and Kumarakom Lagoon Resort. See complete list and user reviews of hotels and resorts in Kumarakom.

Images of the backwaters



See more images from Alleppey and Kumarakom.

More information

• Map of Kumarakom and Alleppey with information on hotels, restaurants and attaractions.
• How to reach Kumarakom and Alleppey

• A travelogue on Kerala Backwaters