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A large part of Kerala’s considerable charm lies in the Backwaters, a network of canals that lead off Lake Vembanad.
Local life
Whether you spend time in one of the palm-shaded hotels or drift along in a rice boat, it is difficult not to be captivated by the local way of life. Seeing children traveling to school in a narrow canoe, local ladies washing the pots at the side of the canal and fishermen netting their daily meal in the shallows, you realize how integral this network is to the life of the region.
Villages, temples and churches are built along the banks and the area is also a haven for wildlife with wading birds, kingfishers and fish eagles.
Rice boats
These traditional wooden craft, originally used to transport rice along Kerala’s lush green backwaters, have found a new lease of life quietly exploring timeless scenes of palms and paddies, temples and villages. Boats have either one or two fan-cooled bedrooms with attached shower rooms. The sides are open allowing the breeze to flow freely. Your private crew steer the boat, cook lavish local meals and keep you in tea and cold drinks.
As you drift along the backwaters, you can see the local villagers fishing and washing clothes in the canals, as small boys swim alongside the boats shouting ‘Hello’ and ‘Which country?’. Birdlife is plentiful: stork and egret are often spotted. Even a day on a rice boat is a unique and unforgettable experience, but staying overnight on a boat gives the chance to experience dusk and dawn on the still, reflective waters.
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Suggested itinerary featuring the Backwaters
This sample itinerary will give you an idea of what is possible when you travel in the Backwaters, and showcases routes we know work particularly well. Treat this as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.
Places near the Backwaters
- Mararikulam 12 kilometers away
- Cochin 50 kilometers away
- Kerala 63 kilometers away
- Kothamangalam 68 kilometers away
- Thekkady & Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary 94 kilometers away
- Munnar 100 kilometers away
- Kovalam 141 kilometers away
- Palakkad 144 kilometers away
- Madurai 198 kilometers away
- Ooty 214 kilometers away
- Wayanad 240 kilometers away
- Tellicherry 266 kilometers away
- Chettinad 272 kilometers away
- Nagarhole National Park 283 kilometers away
- Trichy 294 kilometers away
- Mysore 313 kilometers away
- Coorg 332 kilometers away
- Neeleshwar 335 kilometers away
- Tanjore 336 kilometers away
- Bangalore 408 kilometers away
- Belur & Halebid 413 kilometers away
- Tranquebar 418 kilometers away
- Pondicherry 466 kilometers away
Photos of the Backwaters
Our expert guides to exploring the Backwaters
Written by our specialists from their own experiences of visiting the Backwaters, these guides will help you make the most of your time there. We share both our practical recommendations and the best ways to appreciate the Backwaters at its best.
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What to do in Kerala: our highlights guide What to do in Kerala: our highlights guide
What to do in Kerala: our highlights guide
Kerala’s slow pace of life is a gentle introduction to India, with tranquil backwaters, manicured tea plantations and fishing villages to explore. India specialist Tara lends her advice for how to make the most of your time there.
Read this guide -
Homestays in Kerala Homestays in Kerala
Homestays in Kerala
The concept of the homestay was first developed in Kerala and the naturally friendly Keralites continue to welcome visitors to their homes. Our specialists have visited many homestays and can suggest the best places to stay.
Read this guide
Accommodation choices for the Backwaters
We've selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit the Backwaters. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.
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Philip Kutty's Farmhouse
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Responsible ChoiceWe've hand-selected a range of tours and stays across the world that go above and beyond to be a force for good by supporting local businesses, educating staff, challenging local norms, or promoting conservation and biodiversity efforts. Your Responsible Choice helps increase the positive impact of your trip.
Coconut Lagoon
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Keralan Houseboats (Rice barges)
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Kumarakom Lake Resort
Backwaters