Backwaters

Along the Backwaters

Tender coconut
Fresh, sweet tender coconut is the most popular beverage in Kerala.100% natural, it is most nourishing. Sweet toddy or madhurakallu is another beverage extracted from the coconut palm.

Resorts
There are quite a few resorts along the backwaters which also offer houseboat cruises. Many of them are heritage homes, the traditional family mansions of Kerala.

Food
The back water delicacies from cuisine by themselves. A few halting points where you can enjoy the local cuisine are marked on the map.

Jetty
Highways and railways are generally located away from waterside. These can be accessed from the jetties by bus, taxi or autorickshaws.

Ayurveda
Kerala’s ancient Ayurvedic regimens are offered many of the backwater resorts.

Snake boat races
The boat races of Kerala are exciting events that bring to life the tranquil backwaters. 16-20 snake boats manned by 125 oarsmen and a team of singers participate in each event. Snake boat races are usually held during the festival of Onam.  

Sanctuaries and picnic spots
The extensive water bodies support a wide range of birds. Kumarakom and kadalundi are favorite haunts of migratory birds. The backwaters are also excellent for picnics.

Coir Village
Coir making is a primary occupation of backwater folk. Entire villages engaged in coir manufacture can be seen along the waterside.

Kathakali
Cultural evenings are arranged at several spots along the backwaters by resort and houseboat operators. Kathakali, the classical dance drama of Kerala is a favorite.

Boat Building
At places like Alumkadavu you can watch the houseboat and snake boats in the making. These traditional houseboats are made by tying together huge plank of wood.

Churches
Kerala has some of the oldest churches in the world, dating from time St. Thomas the Apostle arrived here in 70 AD. Many of these can be seen along the backwaters.

Temples
Temples are common sight on the backwater trail. Both the Dravidian gopuram style and tiled Kerala temples can be seen.

Mosque and synagogue
These centuries old monuments on the waterside form picturesque spectacles. The synagogue at Kochi is about 400 years old.

Forts
Forts built by Portuguese, Dutch and British form of the tour through the backwater districts.

<< Back to Houseboats