Kerala

Kerala 

The Kerala backwaters are a chain of brackish lagoons and lakes lying parallel to the Arabian Sea coast of Kerala state in southern India. The coastal regions of Kerala have a network of waterways, inlets, estuaries,lakes and natural canals connecting coastal towns.This interlinked body of waterways is known as the backwaters in Kerala,over 900 km of which is navigable.Travelling in traditional houseboats along these backwaters to enjoy the scenic landscape is a wonderful experience and extremely popular among foreign visitors.

The leisurely cruise along the famous  backwaters of Kerala gives one a first hand experience  of the village life style in the state and its rustic activities like coir-making and prawn farming. You cannot miss the breathtaking view of the water, land, birds and human habitation on the water side, coexisting peacefully.

The hub of backwater tourism in Kerala, Alleppey or Alappuzha means land between the sea where a network of rivers flows into it. If you are in Alleppey, perhaps your main reason to be there is to cruise through the backwaters in Kerala.Backwater by definition means “a part of a river not reached by the current, where the water is stagnant”, and Kerala showcases a great deal of its picturesque backwaters in Alleppey. The houseboat rides along these backwaters can prove exhilarating to the tourists as they take you through Kottayam, Alleppey,Quilon, Kumarakom and Kuttanad area.

House Boat :

The kettuvallams were traditionally used as grain barges, to transport the rice harvested in the fertile fields alongside the backwaters. Thatched roof covers over wooden hulls, 100 feet (30 m) in length, provided protection from the elements. At some point in time the boats were used as living quarters by the royalty. Converted to accommodate tourists, the houseboats have become floating cottages having a sleeping area, with western-style toilets, a dining area and a sit out on the deck. Most tourists spend the night on a house boat. Food is cooked on board by the accompanying staff – mostly having a flavour of Kerala.

The houseboats are of various patterns and can be hired as per the size of the family or visiting group. The living-dining room is usually open on at least three sides providing a grand view of the surroundings, including other boats, throughout the day when it is on the move. It is brought to a standstill at times of taking food and at night. After sunset, the boat crew provide burning coils to drive away mosquitoes. Ketuvallams are motorised but generally proceed at a slow speed for smooth travel. All ketuvallams have a generator and most bedrooms are air-conditioned. At times, as per demand of customers, electricity is switched off and lanterns are provided to create a rural setting.

How to reach :

By Air : There are 3 airports in Kerala-Trivandrum International Airport, Kochi(Ernakulam) International Airport and Calicut Airport. These airports are connected with most of the international airports in other parts of the world.

By Rail : There are trains to kerala from most of the major indian cities. You'll get direct trains to kerala from Delhi, Mumbai, Madras, Bangalore and Calcutta and other major cities of India.
By Road : Kerala is directly connected by road with 2 states-Karnataka and Tamilnadu. Kerala is connected with other major cities of india through National Highways.

Visiting Time

September to March is considered the best time to visit Kerala.

Entry Fee

The ticket fare for visiting each place and spot is different based on the location.