Every season brings a load of travelers to the backwaters of Kerala, and who could blame them?
The backwaters of Kerala are a stunning network of brackish lagoons, lakes, rivers, and canals extending from Kollam to Kottappuram (NWAI-3), with Alleppey serving as the primary entry point. The backwaters are filled with quaint villages, rich foliage, and vivid fauna – Kerala is a place like no other.
Many of the well-known stereotypes are accurate, to some extent. It’s peaceful and just as beautiful as the pictures suggest, but thanks to its popularity, the backwaters can easily get busy, especially during the peak seasons.
Even in the busiest areas of the Kerala backwaters, just a few turns away from the main routes, you’ll discover serene waterways and vibrant local villages. Spend more time here – a few days at least – and you’ll find that the true charm of the Kerala backwaters goes beyond the famous houseboat cruises and stunning scenery. It’s hidden in the quieter spots where traditional farming, fishing, and village life have flourished for years. You’ll want to assist in the preservation of Kerala’s unique culture and heritage once you have witnessed authentic Kerala and its backwaters.
To truly immerse yourself in the backwaters of Kerala, stay overnight in houseboats or local homestays (rather than large resorts), eat in family-owned eateries, and buy crafts from local artisans who carry on traditional trades. This way, not only are you helping the region thrive, but you’re also ensuring a richer experience – Kerala done right is unforgettable.
Here are the best experiences in the Kerala backwaters.
#1 in Kerala Backwaters | 4.5 km to Alappuzha city center
Address: G9F4+GXF, Punnamada, Alappuzha, Kerala 688006, India [SEE MAP]
Tours | Backwaters | Sightseeing [TYPE]
1-2 days [TIME TO SPEND]
Experience the allure of Alleppey backwaters, the primary entry point to the stunning Kerala waterways. Known as the “Venice of East,” Alleppey has the greatest number of tourists visiting for backwater experience, islands, and lakes in Kerala with the large fleet of houseboats in various categories, perfect for every occasion.
If you’re planning a honeymoon, family gathering, meeting, conventions, or parties – The houseboats in Alleppey provides the perfect and memorable setting in the backwaters.
Cruise the backwaters, surrounded by eccentric scenery, enjoy everything onboard a houseboat, shikara, canoe or kayak and also savour various Kerala cuisines and seafood delicacies while you’re visiting Alleppey.
Book your Alleppey backwater adventure from Sanchari Travels & Activities now and immerse in memorable water sports and activities across the backwaters of Kerala.
Timings: 06:00 AM – 06:30 PM on all days of the week
#2 in Kerala Backwaters | 6 km to Alleppey city center
Address: G9MW+6M, Kuttanad Taluk, Kainakary, Kerala 688501, India [SEE MAP]
Backwaters | Sightseeing [TYPE]
3-4 hours [TIME TO SPEND]
Experience the marvelous Rani, Chittira (Chittira Pally), and Marthandom Kayal of Alappuzha, which are the top backwaters destinations offered in Alleppey, Kerala. It hovers an area of about 11.2 sq.km.
In the central part of Alappuzha district, the three kayals lie. On the first day of the tour, the best way to explore any of these kayals is by getting to Alappuzha Boat Jetty or Finishing point. Hiring a houseboat or shikkara from there is the pleasurable mode for voyaging these long waterways and taking an entire day of sightseeing, with the regular cruise route that is taking you through the placid waters with green meadows and wet landscapes which ends at either Kainakary or Nedumudi.
In Alappuzha, kayaking and canoeing are amazing ways of getting through the smallest waterways and short distances, it also brings you nearer to the traditional villages and the colorful birdlife. The overall route of these canals usually takes about a whole day, allowing you to have enough time to check out all the nice spots and to relax by enjoying the view of the surroundings. A tour of the hidden gems really does not miss out! So make your booking in advance to ensure that you are among the few people that can enjoy them in the quiet environment the place offers.
#3 in Kerala Backwaters | 6.5km to Alappuzha city centre
Address: GC5V+W8G, Kavalam, Kerala 688506, India [SEE MAP]
Backwaters | Sightseeing [TYPE]
2-3 hours [TIME TO SPEND]
Discover Kuttanad aka The Rice Bowl of Kerala, popular for its lush paddy fields and interconnected water bodies flowing across the village.
Situated in Alappuzha, Kuttanad has a unique landscape, it’s below the sea level and offers mesmerising views of backwaters, local life and different birds and animals of the region.
Kuttanad is easily accessible through Alleppey town, which is only 14km away and the travellers can reach the location via roads or waterways. Enjoy different backwater activities such as houseboats, canoe cruises and village tours at Kuttanad as the place is well known and a top tourist destination for its rich agricultural heritage and backwater experiences.
Kuttanad is widely popular for its large-scale rice cultivation. The region lying below the sea level, showcases different kinds of farming techniques and beautiful landscapes while contributing about 50% of Kerala’s total rice production. Travelers around the globe visit the location for its cultural significance and unmatched beauty, they also consider it as a must-visit location in Kerala.
Indulge in the lap of luxury at Alleppey’s backwaters
#4 in Kerala Backwaters | 13.3km to Kochi city centre
Address: V8R8+MP9, Kumbalam, Kochi, Ernakulam, Kerala 682506, India [SEE MAP]
Activities | Sightseeing [TYPE]
2-6 hours [TIME TO SPEND]
Set out on an amazing houseboat day cruise from Alleppey to Kochi, rather than always choosing the roads hire a houseboat for yourself and set sail to Kochi through the enchanting backwaters of Kerala – This will be a memorable one for sure.
Start your day with a morning check-in onto a beautifully crafted houseboat in Alleppey, enjoy the aesthetics and traditional charms of the area while cruising the backwaters peacefully. Savor a tasty lunch prepared onboard by the chef, watch eccentric villages, breathtaking sights and waterways on the way.
The tour ends with a charming arrival to Kochi by the evening. This houseboat cruise itinerary is a must-do experience and the perfect plan to experience the beauty of Kerala’s backwaters, have a day for relaxation and also travel to Kochi.
#5 in Kerala Backwaters | 16.3km to Kottayam city centre
Address: Kavanattinkara, Kumarakom, Kerala 686563, India [SEE MAP]
Backwaters | Sightseeing | Things to do [TYPE]
1-2 hours [TIME TO SPEND]
Explore Kumarakom, paradise for bird watchers and a must-visit destination in the Kerala backwaters. Located in close proximity to Alleppey backwaters, on the renowned Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom features unparalleled relaxation and stunning sunrise and sunset experiences at the location as you glide above the backwaters on a houseboat or traditional canoe boats. The bird Sanctuary of Kumarakom boats exotic species like Siberian cranes and vibrant kingfishers and if you’re lucky you can spot many other rare birds and species at the premises. Also explore the lush landscapes, try out the authentic local cuisines and experience a perfect blend of peace and comfort while at Kumarakom.
While the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, which is considered as haven for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers is spanning acres 14 acres on the banks of Vembanad Lake, home to diverse array of birds such as Siberian cranes, herons, kingfihsers and egrets. Conveniently accessible from Kottayam, just 13km away and also from Alleppey backwaters visitors can enjoy various other backwater activities such as houseboats, canoe and speedboat rides from nearby.
Timings: Open daily from 6:30 AM to 4:30 PM
Entry fee: INR 50 per person.
#6 in Kerala Backwaters | 7km to Alappuzha city centre
Address: Chungom, road, Pallathuruthy, Kainakary, Kerala 688011 [SEE MAP]
Activities | Water sports (TYPE)
1-2 hours (TIME TO SPEND)
When one sails across Vembanad Lake, what you can see are beautiful backwaters found in Kumarakom and Alleppey of Kerala where everyday life of people still maintains class amidst quiet rivers. Explorers will not be bored with the lake as they can choose between expensive houseboats and cheap small boats’ Shikkara’. In other words, travelers will mix nature’s wonders with the way people live when they visit God’s own country’s most famous waterways in India.
Start a breathtaking trip over to Vembanad Lake to peep into Kuttanad marvelous backwaters. Whether you decide to splurge on the houseboats or take a separate shikara ride, you will get the first chance to see the untouched waters of Kerala. Slide through stretches of paddy fields in varying shades of green with birds providing you with an acoustic blast before you sail on Patharimanal, a scenic isle. There, you will witness the beauteous blend of the environment and local life in perfect harmony. Simple as it is, it is foremost a wonderful connection with the green world that African- American holidays’ lovers have. A nature enthusiast, as well as a cultural blend searcher will have an opportunity to observe an ever-rememorable sight- the sailing of the most thriving waterfronts in the whole of India, nature’s back.
#7 in Kerala Backwaters | 16.4 km to Alappuzha city centre
Address: J98M+VPQ, Muhamma, Kerala 688555, India [SEE MAP]
Backwaters | Sightseeing | Things to do (TYPE)
1-2 hours (TIME TO SPEND)
Pathiramanal Island in Alleppey is haven for birdwatchers and exotic & migratory birds. Spanning 0.14 square km’s, this birdwatching paradise offers unmatched experiences of birdwatching and backwaters in one while visiting Kerala backwaters.
This island, which is reachable only by boats or canoe from Alappuzha or Kumarakom, covers an area of 0.14 square kilometers and hosts many different types of migratory and exotic birds. For travelers who especially loves birdwatching and nature, this is a must-visit location in the backwaters of Alleppey. Pathiramanal is known for its rich flora and fauna as well as a peaceful atmosphere; therefore, there are facilities like viewing platforms and guided walks that can make your bird watching trip more enjoyable. Come to this tranquil place where you will see various kinds of birds living lively lives and take a bath in the natural charm of backwaters in Kerala.
Timings: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Entry fee: No entry fee
#8 in Kerala Backwaters | 19.5km to Kottayam city centre
Address: JCV9+GG7, Kumarakom, Kerala 686144, India [SEE MAP]
Backwaters | Sightseeing (TYPE)
1-2 hours (TIME TO SPEND)
Located in Kerala’s Kottayam district, Mannanam is a religious center with deep historic significance. This was the place where Saint Kuriakose Elias Chavara laid the foundation stone for the first house of the CMI Congregation on May 11, 1831.
The Chavara Art Museum of Mannanam also keeps an impressive collection of church history. However, though Mannanam was home to the Catholic Sanskrit School, the pioneering CMS Press run by Benjamain Bailey and the first Malayalam daily newspaper, Deepika, more to be experienced, just drive to the town to find out more.
Meanwhile, adventurous boat rides on the Pennar Canal, which meanders through the scenic backwaters of Alappuzha and Ernakulam, complete the imagination for visitors.
One interesting way to discover a fascinating culture and pretty scenery is going on a boat trip which is organized by the District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC) of Kottayam. These cruises ply through the Pinar Canal and give you picturesque views of the backwaters of Alappuzha and Ernakulam. They can stay at the Mannanam DTPC Tourist Home. For more information, call the District Information Officer at +91 481 2562558. The town of Mannanam is one where history and a natural view to die for have integrated into one place are its some of the names.
#9 in Kerala Backwaters | 32km to Kottayam city centre
Address: P9WQ+8X3, KTDC Rd, Vaikom, Kerala 686141, India [SEE MAP]
Backwaters | Sightseeing (TYPE)
1-2 hours (TIME TO SPEND)
Vaikom, located closely the peaceful Vembanad Lake attracts travelers, with its peaceful village living and numerous beautiful water channels. Touring around this area will expose you to both Murinjapuzha Island’s greenish backwaters and the famous Vaikom Mahadeva Temple, which gives the region cultural significance.
Discover Vaikom’s quiet water bodies and tiny canals in eco-friendly canoe cruises, ideal for people who love nature.
Learn about the traditional lifestyle by watching them carry out demonstrations about how they process and dry lime shells at Vaikom’s backwaters. You can visit Potter’s village, where clay and mud sculpture can be seen or partake in Onasadhya- which is Kerala’s famous dish. At the Vaikom Mahadeva Temple temple festival, one should catch the Kalamezhuthu ritual art. Visit Vaikom for an unforgettable spiritual experience fused with the wondrous beauty of nature.
It is located in Kottayam district where the railway services are available or in Cochin where the airport is situated, so this place suits best those who long for authentic Kerala.
#10 in Kerala Backwaters | 18km to Kollam city centre
Address: Ashtamudi, Malibhagam, South, Chavara, Kerala 691584, India [SEE MAP]
Backwaters | Sightseeing | Water sports [TYPE]
2-3 hours [TIME TO SPEND]
Huddled within the peace-giving droughts of Kerala, the eyes of the world are turned towards Ashtamudi Lake for its scenic and unique geography.
It is beyond doubt that its name comes from the local language of Kerala which means “eight arms” and it is this name that clearly illustrates its intricate layout of waterways and canals, which are the doorways to the famous Kerala backwaters.
Houseboat cruise from Kollam to Alappuzha across Ashtamudi Lake is often the thing that most tourists look forward to, where, breathing in the refreshing air and observing the wildlife at the same time, one feels like in a completely different world. With these excursions, a gateway to Kerala’s pristine lakes is discovered, thanks to local rowers who do their utmost to ensure the guests leave with a thorough insight of the area.
Immerse yourself in the undiscovered marvel of the backwaters and experience the ultimate soul-reaching through the traditional houseboats. The element of the cruise will be a trip that will take you back to nature in the misty Ashtamudi and the unrivaled flora and fauna that has made it the best-protected wetland in the country.
For more details, contact the District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC) in Kollam at +91 474 2745625 or online at http://www.dtpckollam.com. The location of this spellbinding destination makes the trip easy and comfortable. The Kollam Junction Railway Station is the nearest to the place, just 2 km away, and it is almost 70 km from there to the Trivandrum International Airport.
#11 in Kerala Backwaters | 15.1km to Kayamkulam city centre
Address: Alumkadavu-Karunagappally Road, KARUNAGAPILLY, Alumkadavu, Kerala 690573, India [SEE MAP]
Backwaters | Sightseeing [TYPE]
1-2 hours [TIME TO SPEND]
Situated in Kerala, Alumkadavu is a peaceful village that is famous because of its traditional boat construction and busy rope making industry. The delightful place is a mixture of historical values and landscape’s elegance and it beckons tourists to relax and discover.
Alumkadavu is the place where kettuvallams, the staple houseboats that flit over Kerala’s backwaters, are first marked for launching. Experience the systematic building of these wonders on water and experience the thriving coir industry, turning Kollam into a province of high-quality coir products. Spend a calm time on a houseboat tour, visit local coir factories and take relaxing walks in the nature to sink into the woods and wildlife. About a day or two alone in Alumkadavu for a genuine Kerala stay and recover.
#12 in Kerala Backwaters | 13.3km to Kayamkulam city centre
Address: Mata Amritanandamayi Math Main Rd, Amritapuri, Parayakadavu, Vallikavu, Kerala 690546, India [SEE MAP]
Activities | Temples [TYPE]
2-4 hours [TIME TO SPEND]
Amritapuri is a very peaceful spiritual center in Kollam, Kerala, which is well-known for its quietness and easy travel by the enchanting backwaters. Amritapuri, located in the beautiful coastal panorama of Kerala, provides its visitors with an inimitable mix of spiritual recovery and natural scenery.
The community of Amritapuri, the ashram of Mata Amritanandamayi Devi (Amma), is a place where you get enriched with spiritualism and acquire tranquility through meditation. On the other hand, the backwaters are blessed with best experiences where the houseboat cruises, canoe rides, village tours, and bird watching give you a plan for a day trip. Participate in local customs, contemplate the leafy distances, and register for numerous bird sighting sites. Moreover, make sure the trip you schedule to Amritapuri and the nearby backwaters with the coast, in Kerala, is an original and invigorating experience.
#13 in Kerala Backwaters | 20.8km to Alappuzha city centre
Address: Thumbalil temple Road, Kidapram, Munroe Island, Munroe Island, Kerala 690538, India [SEE MAP]
Backwaters | Sightseeing | Watersports [TYPE]
1-2 hours [TIME TO SPEND]
Munroe Island is a cluster of eight islands that is located 27 km from Kollam. This place of silence is a unique and original place to escape modern life’s chaos.
It is the narrow waterways, canal cruises, and the Kallada Boat Race held during Onam that on the Island, the narrow waterways itself and boating are the highlights of the trip besides the Kallada Boat Races that are held during Onam in honor of the Resident Colonel John Munroe for whom the island is named. Here is a peaceful environment with a good comfort level for relaxation and exploration.
Make a plan of your visit to Munroe Island and then come here to be a part of the fantastic backwaters of Kerala spending some peaceful days there.
#14 in Kerala Backwaters | 4.4km to Kollam city centre
Address: Behind, Guest House Rd, Asramam, Kollam, Kerala 691001, India [SEE MAP]
Activities | Watersports [TYPE]
2- 4 hours [TIME TO SPEND]
Ashramom Picnic Village in Kollam is a place essentially for travelers who want fun and adventure as well as the opportunity to chill out. Largely known as the 200-year-old Guest House campus that was inhabited by Lord Munroe, which was converted into this top recreational facility now, it became a magnet for outing ideas!
Allow yourself to cruise boats in absolute peace at the Boat Club, have interactive fun at the Children’s Traffic Park, and taste the street food at the Tamarind Hotel. The fun-loving spirit is bound to go to the Adventure Park. The art lovers have an excellent opportunity to explore the Paaramparya Museum, where Warli, Kalamkari, Madhubani, and Kerala Mural Art are displayed.
Enter the league of Ashramom Picnic Village the trendy and the exclusive, which is a must-visit destination for travelers in Kollam.
#15 in Kerala Backwaters | 5.6km to Payyannur city centre
Address: 35FH+F4G, South Thrikkaripur, Kerala 670307, India [SEE MAP]
Sightseeing | Backwaters [TYPE]
1-2 hours [TIME TO SPEND]
Located between Alappuzha and Kochi, Andhakaranazhi Beach is a short distance of 31 km from Alleppey and 30 km from Kochi. It stands as one of the most mesmerizing destinations close to Alleppey.
As you discover these coastal areas, you’ll encounter the quite Manakkodam lighthouse, enhancing the scenic appeal of the place. The seaside, aptly named the ‘Lagoon of Darkness,’ is not only a pleasure for hardcore nature photographers but also a popular spot for tourists looking for a peaceful get away. What sets Andhakaranazhi apart is its geographical marvel—the convergence of the backwaters and the Arabian Sea.
Beyond its natural charms, the beach is well-known for its enthralling sundown and dawn perspectives, including to its appeal. Visitors can revel in their stay at various lodges close to Andhakaranazhi Beach, such as – The World Backwaters, Vasundhara Sarovar Premiere, Boche Island, and Breeze Backwater Homes, strategically placed at distances ranging from 5.9 km to 14.9 km far from the beach. With its strategic place and a blend of herbal wonders, Andhakaranazhi Beach stands as a testomony to the beauty of Kerala’s coastal landscape, making it a should-go to destination inside the Alappuzha district.
#16 in Kerala Backwaters | 13km to Payyannur city centre
Address: P.O, Thekkekadu, Padne, Kerala 671345, India [SEE MAP]
Backwaters | Sightseeing [TYPE]
1-2 hours [TIME TO SPEND]
Nestled in the pristine landscapes of northern Kerala, the Padanna Backwaters experience offers a release from city life through theµ alternative of the beaches with the distance to the water while the dark sky is full of the stars. This idyllic settlement is a must-visit not only because of its blissful serenity but also for the interesting oysters that make it one of the best backwater places in the area.
The quiet village of Padanna is a testament to the remarkable community-led initiative, a project called Oyster Opera, helmed by Gul Mohammad, which provides an inside look at oyster farming as well as trustworthy seafood, fresh from the source. A serene boat trip through the coconut trees and a particular island that is connected with the five rivers will be the highlights of the trip. Goods and services are both owned by local producers hence guaranteeing the travelers an original Northern Kerala experience. The interesting places which are near to the Bodhana are the ancient Bekal Fort , the lovely Kareem Forest , and the original Theyyam performances . The whole time, our team were meeting and talking to the folks, the tutors, who were sharing special techniques with us about the different types of fish caught by local fishermen, and it is like a quietness that is catching without a drop of the stuff.
#17 in Kerala Backwaters | 3km to Payyannur city centre
Address: 35QF+C35, Kavvayi, Payyanur, Kerala 670307, India [SEE MAP]
Backwaters | Sightseeing [TYPE]
2-3 hours [TIME TO SPEND]
Kavvayi Kayal is located in the northern part of the state and is a beautiful backwater destination in Kerala that is deserving to be exploited. This very interesting place is actually the confluence of five rivers which are River Kavvayi and its tributaries: Kankol, Vannathichal, Kuppithodu, and Kuniyan.
Kavvayi Kayal is home to beautiful islands that are connected to Payyannur in Kannur via a pretty bridge. The backwaters here are the largest wertland in North Kerala, covering about 37 square kilometers. Take a fascinating boat ride to learn about the daily lives of the local villagers, or take a nature walk, to see the diverse flora and fauna. Savoring the fresh fare is among the tourist attractions provided by the peaceful surroundings which will allow you to just sit back and relax. The serene zone of God’s Own Country is still a home to Kavvayi Kayal, whether you are a nature enthusiast, a gourmand, or want to steal a moment to relax in peace and tranquility.
#18 in Kerala Backwaters | 6.3km to Kasaragod city centre
Address: F293+X7H, Kasaragod, Kalnad, Kerala 671317, India [SEE MAP]
Backwaters | Sightseeing | Historical places [TYPE]
1-2 hours [TIME TO SPEND]
The Chandragiri Fort located in Kasaragod town, stands majestically as proof of its rich history and architectural opulence. This fort was built in the 17th century by Sivappa Naik Bedanore, as it overlooks the meeting of Payaswini River and the Arabian Sea, offering historical and backwater tourism experience all in once.
The Chandragiri Fort located on the top of the hill ruins offers a quiet environment and a wonderful natural fort experience in contrast to the noisy Bekal Fort. The well-known Kizhur Siva Temple of the fort is the best spot to watch the sunset in this place and also it offers a fabulous view for the ones watching the beauty of nature. On Chandragiri Cruises, tourists can kick off their journey by taking a scenic boat trip at the Chandragiri Bridge via the magnificent nearby islands, as well as the inland palm groves. Users can choose to navigate on Chandragiri Boat Club, which specializes in speed boat rides, houseboat cruises, island camping, and wildlife tours in the hinterland. Local fishermen near the bridge will lead the planned custom backwater rides and island trips, allowing you to have an unforgettable time. As one of the most accessible and willingly visited, it is a place to visit for trekkers looking at Chandragiri, which is only a short distance away from Bekal Fort.
#19 in Kerala Backwaters | 23.3km to Alleppey city centre
Address: M9FX+PWG Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom, Kerala 688527, India [SEE MAP]
Backwaters | Sightseeing [TYPE]
1-2 hours [TIME TO SPEND]
The Thanneermukkom Bund, represented as the biggest mud regulator in India, is the personnel behind the construction of this amazing series of works, which first appeared in the Kuttanad Development Scheme. The grandiose structure of the Thanneermukkom Bund which is 1400 meters long can be visibly seen splitting Lake Vembanand, the largest lake in the state, into two parts. One part is in Kottayam and the other one is in Alappuzha one links through the big wall of the Dam Thanneermukkam and Vechoor villages.
Situated at the intersection of 76° 23′ E longitude and 9° 40′ N latitude, the bund is 470 m long in dimension having the 470-meter-long reclaimed section at its center. The construction process of the project which kicked off in 1958 was riddled with several setbacks as it took a long time to complete the developing of a passage that consists of 31 shutters in each of eastern and western parts having 470 meters long. The part in the middle that gained added volume through the reclamation of land that was taken from the backwaters called shutters to control the sand, and as a result, there was no much influx of saltwater was done in the year 1977. The infrastructure is highly significant in the navigations, hence, the structure is used to impede the driver of water.Hyi, the innovative generation of the Kuttanad Development Scheme. With the positiveness in implementing it as the Kuttanad Development Scheme stands out there has been a notice of the scheme’s value by the people, and this interest has spread to even some of the individuals who have come from different countries of the world.
#20 in Kerala Backwaters | 21km to Alleppey city centre
Address: hanging bridge, Thottappally Spillway, Thottappally, Thrikkunnapuzha, Kerala 688561, India [SEE MAP]
Backwaters | Sightseeing [TYPE]
1-2 hours [TIME TO SPEND]
The Thottapally Spillway, an epitome of managing floods in the Curry state, mostly helps in dealing with excess water led from Kuttanad into the Arabian Sea. Thottapally Spillway, is situated at a place near the Thottapally village in the Alappuzha district and it is one of the solutions for this worthwhile concern. The Thottapally Spillway precludes the floods during the rainy season, saving the croplands and the settlements from waterlogging and soil erosion, known as the monsoon season and the way that the place is situated at the coastal belt.
Scientifically, the spillway is the key to this end as it is watered-down, the lightening of the water to an extremely thin line, the overall conception of which is the preservation and sustainability of the region. The Thottapally Spillway, constructed in 1955, is the longest in its class of 365 meters is that of the Thottapally Project which also encompasses the Thanneermukkom Bund for regulating the entry of salt water and thus boosting agriculture in the region. The Thottapally Spillway is an outstanding example of Kerala’s water management history and is the best proof of the region’s commitment to sustainable development. It also shows how hydraulic engineering can be used creatively to address environmental issues. This place is a mainstream destination for travelers and engineers who like to watch the site’s functionality and not only this, but they also capture backwaters that are merging into the Arabian Sea.
#21 in Kerala Backwaters | 8.8 km to Varkala, Thiruananthapuram
Address:MPWV+WR3, Nedungada, Vettoor-cherunniyoor, Kerala 695312, India [SEE MAP]
Backwaters | Sightseeing [TYPE]
2-3 hours [TIME TO SPEND]
Situated closely to the Anjengo Backwaters, the Ponnumthuruthu Island near Varkala, Thiruvananthapuram is an underrated gem. The Island is spread across a vast 5-acre of land and features a 100-year old Shiva-Parvathi temple, vibrant birdlife and scenic Akathumuri Lake. The location is accessible only through a jetty in Nedunganda Village.
20km away from Varakala – Ponnumthuruthu Island aka Golden Island in Thiruvananthapuram offers a peaceful getaway for visitors. The Islands’ charm rests atop its welcoming local atmosphere, unspoiled natural beauty, and a spiritual vibe. Explore the temple, birdwatching and unwind by the backwaters of Akathumuri Lake – a great place to relax right beside Thiruvananthapuram.
#22 in Kerala Backwaters | 28 km to Kollam city centre
Address:2JQH+VPM, Sasthamcotta, Kerala 690521, India [SEE MAP]
Backwaters | Sightseeing [TYPE]
2-3 hours [TIME TO SPEND]
Nestled in the heart of Kollam district, Sasthamkotta is fondly known as the ‘Queen of Lakes,’ a title that becomes evident upon visiting this captivating destination. As Kerala’s largest freshwater lake, Sasthamkotta attracts tourists year-round with its serene beauty and vibrant ecosystem. Encircled by majestic hills on three sides, the area is also renowned for the ancient Sastha Temple, a significant pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Ganesha and Lord Ayyappa. The temple’s grounds are home to friendly monkeys, revered as divine entities by locals, who consider them the loyal entourage of the presiding deity, Dharmasastha. Visitors delight in feeding these enchanting animals while immersing themselves in the spiritual atmosphere that pervades the region. This unique blend of natural splendor and cultural heritage makes Sasthamkotta a must-visit locale for travelers seeking both tranquility and a touch of the divine.
#23 in Kerala Backwaters | 7.8km to Kochi city centre
Address:X7JF+4WM, Marine Drive, Kochi, Ernakulam, Kerala 682031, India [SEE MAP]
Backwaters | Sightseeing | Water sports [TYPE]
2-4 hours [TIME TO SPEND]
Marine Drive at Kochi appears to be the most picturesque and preferred place of the city, beckoning with the azure-tinted backwaters and the glittering Kochi Harbour that are sure to capture your breath away. This scenic walkway can be a good escape for people who want to get away from the city life, as it is a peaceful place for a leisurely walk anytime during the day. The location includes many of both restaurants and shops of the local chain, what in the process makes Marine Drive a favorite stop among those who go shopping. On the promenade, many boat jetties are constructed among which the prominent International Boat Jetty Complex is used by boaters who wish to cruise the waters. As the night falls, the strikingly colored Rainbow Bridge gets alive with the illuminating sparkles of many colors, a splendid spectacle of visual enjoyment which should not be missed.
#24 in Kerala Backwaters | 7.1km to Kochi city centre
Address:V7QJ+324, North Kumbalangi, Kumbalangi, Kochi, Kerala 682007, India [SEE MAP]
Backwaters | Sightseeing | Cultural places [TYPE]
2-3 hours [TIME TO SPEND]
The Kumbalangi Integrated Tourism Village Project, located in Kochi, is India’s pioneering initiative to transform Kumbalangi into a model fishing village and premier tourism destination. Surrounded by serene backwaters and adorned with iconic Chinese fishing nets, Kumbalangi offers visitors a unique glimpse into a vibrant ecosystem teeming with prawns, crabs, oysters, and small fish, nurtured by the dense mangroves that line its shores. This picturesque island is complemented by Palluruthy, a nearby hamlet that preserves the time-honored traditions of its villagers, providing an authentic cultural experience. Adding to the charm is Kalagramam, an artist’s village showcasing traditional fishing equipment and exquisite handicrafts, with bait-fishing emerging as a favored activity among tourists. The village’s numerous homestays offer a welcoming and immersive stay, allowing visitors to book directly with local operators. This seamless blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and authentic experiences makes Kumbalangi a must-visit destination, reflecting the essence of sustainable tourism and community engagement.
#25 in Kerala Backwaters | 6km to Kochi city centre
Address:W7WH+F27 Command swimming pool, Willingdon Island, Kochi, Kerala 682003, India [SEE MAP]
Backwaters | Sightseeing | Cultural places [TYPE]
2-3 hours [TIME TO SPEND]
Willingdon Island, a beautiful pearl of the Kochi area, is one of respectively the biggest artificial islands in India, which has been named after a British Vice Royalty. This not the only thing that Kochi is famous for, the island is also the center for developing the city to embrace the boutique hotels and top attractions, such as the Fort Kochi, as well as visiting other friendly touristic spots in the area. In addition, this is where institutions of international fame like the Central Institute of Fisheries Technology and the Port of Kochi, whose annual freight traffic amounts to millions of tonnes, are to be found. Willingdon Island is linked with Vendurthy Bridge and it gives the ferryboat ride operators the opportunity to take explorers on trips that really thrill them with wholesome sea and natural scenes. As a cornerstone of the city’s economy and a main port, besides its leisure or recreational aspect of the island, it also fills the roles of an entity for both visiting and setting up companies and sites in its own right, thereby, an integral part of Kochi.
#26 in Kerala Backwaters | 33.4km to Kannur city centre
Address:Valapattanam River, Malapattam, Kerala 670631, India [SEE MAP]
Backwaters | Sightseeing | Cultural places [TYPE]
1-2 hours [TIME TO SPEND]
Valapattanam, the place set amidst the legendary Malabar coastline is the city and lions of the history of wood. Today this old city now, belongs to Western India Plywood Ltd., Asia’s largest wood-based industry. Its location close to the Valapattanam River gives an opportunity to enjoy the special tropical forest resources. They offer different types of trees ranging from teak, iruli, elavu, karimurukku, and Sandalwood (Sandlum album). Moreover, Valapattanam’s amazing agricultural landscape yields must-have crops such as tea, coffee, rubber, cashew nuts, and of course, a tobacco (Pukayila) crop that is grown only in this region—so different from the rest of Kerala. The vibrant fishing wharf is popular with people who have fallen in love with the region’s scenic beauty and the local timber industry, where numerous large timber logs are bound together and then tugged on through the river current—a thrilling sight for the people who visit from the cities. Valapattanam, which is a unique and engaging combination of the historical richness, industrial productivity, and diversity in agriculture, gives a very memorable experience.
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