India Tourism: Backwater in Kerala

Kerala backwaters is fed by 44 rivers, divided into small lakes, lagoons and canals. Cities like Ernakulam, Kumarakom, Kollam and Kottayam for a base. While floating along the backwaters of the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, you can see a number of Siberian Storks, Egrets, Herons, Darters and Kingfishers. Several ornithologists choose this spot for backwater cruising to see unique migratory birds. You can also  visit alleppey, Vembanad Lake for an enchanting experience. Here, on a boat journey, you can witness a uniquefarming system which is done below sea level. Backwater cruise also offers you the pleasant view of the local people who are busy in carrying out their traditional occupations, such as farming and fishing on the fertile banks of the backwaters.

Houseboats (Kettuvellams) are considered best for holidaying on the backwaters. These boats were traditionally used to transport rice and other grains. As backwater tourism evolved with time, these boats were converted into luxurious boats for tourists.

These backwaters comprise of a totally unique ecosystem. The freshwater from the rivers when meets the seawater from the Arabian Sea, it offers a different kind of vegetation. Backwaters are the habitat for mudskippers, frogs, crabs, turtles and otters.

While crossing Kannur district in North Kerala, on your Kettuvellam, you can see the villagers performing Theyyam, a popular traditional & ritual dance. At Punnathur Kotta in Guruvayur, you can see elephants playing on the banks of backwaters. Kerala becomes alive during Onam festival (August-September), widely popular for the snake boat races. The backwaters are fully packed with snake boats during the ten days of this festival.