Kerala Backwaters Tours

The Kerala backwaters are a chain of brackish lagoons and lakes lying parallel to the Arabian Sea coast (known as the Malabar Coast) of Kerala state in Southern India. The network includes five large lakes linked by canals, both manmade and natural, fed by 38 rivers, and extending virtually half the length of Kerala state. The backwaters were formed by the action of waves and shore currents creating low barrier islands across the mouths of the many rivers flowing down from the Western Ghats range. Nestling between the Western Ghats and Arabian Sea, Kerala, thus becomes idle for backwaters activities. The silence of backwaters helps to connect you with the own world of thoughts and spirituality.

The Kettuvallams (Kerala houseboats) in the backwaters are most important attraction for Tourist coming to Kerala. More than 2000 kettuvallams ply the backwaters 120 of them in Alleppey. Kerala government has classified the tourist houseboats as Platinum, Gold and silver.

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 flavor 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.

Kerala Backwaters Tours (03 Nights/ 04 Days)

Places covered : Cochin - Alleppey - Cochin

Kerala Backwaters Tours (05 Nights / 06 Days)

Places covered : Cochin - Alleppey - Kumarakom - Cochin