The backwaters of Kerala are a major tourist attraction. The backwater is like a lagoon stretching several hundred kilometers. Most of the rivers which originate in the eastern mountain ranges carry the rain water to these backwaters which then flows out to the sea in the west coast. The natural beauty around these backwaters is extremely attractive. The surrounding coconut trees and green paddy fields add to magnificence of this place. Backwater tourism in Kerala is gaining momentum each year with increasing number of tourists each year. A cruise in a houseboat along the backwaters will be a memorable experience. This relaxing trip will take people through one of the most beautiful places in Kerala. Some of the best places for backwater tourism are listed below.
Alleppey: One of the best places for backwater tourism is Alleppey town which is located about 85 km from Cochin International airport. Most of the houseboats that run through backwaters can be found here. The entire town of Alleppey is connected with a network of canals. The Boat Jetty in Alleppey is also a place where many passenger boats can also be seen. The largest backwater lake ‘Vembanad’ is situated near Alleppey.
Kumarakom : This place is located approx 80km from Cochin city. There are many tourist spots along the backwaters in Kumarakom. There are also many resorts hotels, homestay accommodation and houseboats in the region. There is also a bird sanctuary there. A backwater cruise from Kumarakom can take tourist to various places there including islands located within the backwaters. Kumarakom is situated close to Vembanad lake.
Kochi : or Cochin is also situated close to the backwaters. The backwaters have their outlet to the sea at Cochin. Some of the important tourist spots in Cochin such as Bolgatty palace. St.Francis church, Marine Drive and Kochi Marina are all situated close to the backwaters. The backwaters connect the three districts of Kottayam, Ernakulam and Alleppey.
Thiruvanathapuram : The Backwaters can be reached from Thiruvanathapuram also. Tourists who come to this city can visit Veli, which is a tourist village close to the backwaters. Here many activities like boating takes place. This place is also close to Kovalam which is a popular beach.
Kollam : This city is also located close to backwaters. Lake Ashtamudi which is the second largest lake in Kerala is also situated very close to this city.
Backwater Sports: After the monsoon rains the backwaters are full of water. During these period boat races are held. Boat racing is the most popular sports in the backwaters. Every year a large number of boat races are held at different places in the backwaters. These boat races are unique as the boats are traditional boats of different size and shape. The largest boat is the snake boat which is rowed by 100 people.