Kerala, often called “God’s Own Country,” is a land of lush landscapes, swaying palms, and tranquil waters. Among its many treasures, Kerala Backwater Tours offer one of the most serene and immersive travel experiences in India. These tours take you through a labyrinth of canals, lakes, lagoons, and rivers that stretch over 900 kilometers, weaving through sleepy villages, paddy fields, and coconut groves.
Whether you’re gliding on a traditional houseboat, paddling a shikara, or exploring village life along the banks, the backwaters of Kerala promise a journey that’s both poetic and peaceful.
🌊 What Are Kerala Backwaters?
The Kerala backwaters are a network of brackish lagoons and freshwater lakes connected by canals and rivers, running parallel to the Arabian Sea coast. This unique ecosystem supports a rich biodiversity and has been a lifeline for local communities for centuries.
Traditionally used for transporting rice and spices in kettuvallams (rice barges), these waterways have now become a major attraction for travelers seeking slow, scenic, and soulful experiences.
🛶 Types of Kerala Backwater Tours
Kerala offers a variety of backwater experiences tailored to different travel styles and budgets:
1. Houseboat Cruises
- Best For: Couples, families, luxury travelers
- Duration: Half-day to multi-day stays
- Features: Bedrooms, dining areas, sundecks, onboard chefs
Houseboats are the most iconic way to explore Kerala’s backwaters. These floating homes offer comfort, privacy, and panoramic views of the water and village life.
2. Shikara Rides
- Best For: Budget travelers, short trips
- Duration: 1–3 hours
- Features: Open boats with cushioned seating and shade
Shikaras are perfect for quick, intimate rides through narrow canals and lush surroundings.
3. Canoe Tours
- Best For: Eco-tourists, solo travelers
- Duration: 2–4 hours
- Features: Small boats guided by locals
Ideal for exploring offbeat routes and interacting with villagers.
4. Village Walk + Boat Combo
- Best For: Cultural explorers
- Duration: Half-day to full-day
- Features: Guided walks, spice garden visits, coir-making demos
These tours combine boat rides with immersive village experiences.
🏞️ Top Destinations for Kerala Backwater Tours
Here are the most popular and picturesque backwater hubs across Kerala:
1. Alleppey (Alappuzha)
- Known As: Venice of the East
- Highlights: Houseboat cruises, snake boat races, Kuttanad paddy fields
Alleppey is the gateway to Kerala’s backwaters and offers the widest range of houseboat options—from budget to ultra-luxury.
2. Kumarakom
- Known For: Bird sanctuary, luxury resorts, Vembanad Lake
- Highlights: Sunset cruises, Ayurvedic retreats, village tours
Kumarakom is quieter than Alleppey and ideal for romantic or wellness-focused trips.
3. Kollam
- Known For: Ashtamudi Lake, longest backwater cruise
- Highlights: 8-hour cruise to Alleppey, cashew plantations, colonial architecture
Kollam offers a more offbeat and authentic backwater experience.
4. Kochi
- Known For: Historic port city, cultural fusion
- Highlights: Short cruises, Chinese fishing nets, Fort Kochi
Kochi is perfect for travelers who want to combine backwaters with heritage and shopping.
5. Kasargod
- Known For: Northern backwaters, forts, palm-fringed canals
- Highlights: Valiyaparamba backwaters, Chandragiri River, birdwatching
Kasargod is ideal for nature lovers and those seeking solitude.
🛏️ Houseboat Categories
Kerala’s houseboats come in various styles and price points:
| Category | Features | Ideal For |
| Deluxe | Basic amenities, AC at night | Budget travelers |
| Premium | Full-time AC, better interiors | Couples, families |
| Luxury | Plush décor, gourmet meals, Jacuzzi | Honeymooners, high-end travelers |
| Multi-bedroom | Up to 8 rooms, conference facilities | Groups, corporate retreats |
🍛 Onboard Experience
Most houseboats include:
- Welcome drinks
- Traditional Kerala meals (vegetarian and non-vegetarian)
- Sunset tea and snacks
- Cultural performances (on request)
- Fishing and village stopovers
Meals are often cooked fresh onboard using local ingredients, and you can even request to learn Kerala recipes from the chef.
📅 Best Time for Kerala Backwater Tours
- October to March: Cool and pleasant, ideal for overnight cruises
- April to June: Hot but less crowded; good for budget deals
- July to September: Monsoon magic with misty views and lush greenery (some routes may be closed due to rain)
📸 What to Expect on a Backwater Tour
- Scenic Views: Coconut groves, paddy fields, lotus ponds
- Village Life: Fishermen casting nets, women weaving coir, children waving from banks
- Wildlife: Kingfishers, herons, cormorants, otters
- Cultural Touches: Temple chants, toddy tapping, local festivals
🧳 Travel Tips
- Book Early: Especially during peak season and festivals
- Choose Wisely: Alleppey for variety, Kumarakom for luxury, Kollam for long cruises
- Pack Light: Sunscreen, mosquito repellent, camera, cotton clothes
- Stay Eco-Friendly: Avoid plastic, respect local customs, tip your crew
🏨 Where to Stay
- Luxury Resorts: Kumarakom Lake Resort, Coconut Lagoon, The Zuri
- Mid-Range Hotels: Punnamada Resort, Lake Palace Alleppey
- Budget Options: Homestays in Kuttanad, guesthouses in Kollam
Many resorts offer private backwater access and in-house boat services.
🧭 Sample Itinerary (3-Day Kerala Backwater Tour)
Day 1
- Arrive in Kochi
- Drive to Alleppey
- Check-in to houseboat
- Cruise through Vembanad Lake
- Sunset dinner onboard
Day 2
- Morning cruise and village stop
- Transfer to Kumarakom
- Visit bird sanctuary and spice garden
- Stay at lakeside resort
Day 3
- Canoe ride through narrow canals
- Ayurvedic massage
- Depart for Kochi
🌅 Final Thoughts
Kerala Backwater Tours are more than just boat rides—they’re slow journeys into the soul of Kerala. Whether you’re watching the sun dip behind coconut palms, listening to temple chants echo across the water, or sharing stories with your boat crew, the backwaters offer a rare kind of peace.
With the right itinerary, your Kerala backwater experience becomes not just a vacation—but a memory that floats with you forever.
