What are Backwaters?
Backwaters are inland water bodies formed by the action of waves and shore currents creating low barrier islands across the mouths of rivers flowing into the sea. These often still or slow-moving waters form ecosystems teeming with life—mangroves, birds, fish, and freshwater plants.
In South India, backwaters are more than just natural marvels. They are lifelines of rural communities, used for transport, agriculture, and fishing, while also serving as centers of culture and tourism.
1. Alleppey (Alappuzha), Kerala: The Venice of the East
Alleppey is synonymous with Kerala backwaters. Known for its extensive network of canals and lagoons, this is where the iconic houseboat cruises began.
Top Experiences:
- Houseboat Stay: Float along Vembanad Lake, complete with onboard chef and cozy cabins
- Nehru Trophy Boat Race (August): Vallam Kali or snake boat race
- Kuttanad: Below sea-level farming, coconut groves, and traditional lifestyles
- Sunset Cruises, Village Walks, Ayurvedic Spas
Best Time to Visit: October to March
2. Kumarakom, Kerala: Serenity by the Vembanad Lake
Located on the opposite bank of Vembanad Lake from Alleppey, Kumarakom is a quieter, luxury-focused destination.
Top Attractions:
- Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: Migratory species like Siberian cranes, herons, and kingfishers
- Luxury Resorts: Lakeside villas with infinity pools and spas
- Canoe Rides & Traditional Houseboats
- Toddy Shops & Backwater Cuisine
Ideal For: Honeymooners, birdwatchers, luxury seekers
3. Kollam (Quilon), Kerala: Gateway to Ashtamudi
Once a major port in the spice trade, Kollam is now the entry point to the Ashtamudi Lake, known for its eight arms.
What to Do:
- Houseboat Cruises to Munroe Island and Alumkadavu
- Stay in Eco Resorts & Homestays
- Fishing Villages & Cashew Processing Units
- Ashtamudi–Alleppey Backwater Route: One of the longest cruises (8 hours)
Best Time: November to February
4. Kuttanad Region, Kerala: Rice Bowl of Kerala
Kuttanad is a rural maze of waterways, fields, and villages situated below sea level—the only place in India where farming is done below the sea level.
Highlights:
- Green Paddies, Palm-lined Canals, Duck Farms
- Village Life Tours: Interact with locals, learn about toddy tapping, coir making
- Sunrise Canoe Rides
Eco Tip: Choose solar-powered boats and avoid plastic bottles
5. Kochi Backwaters, Kerala: Culture and Canals
Kochi offers a unique blend of cosmopolitan life and backwater charm.
Top Activities:
- Evening Cruises from Marine Drive
- Mattancherry & Fort Kochi: Heritage tours with backwater views
- Kayaking & Island Hopping: Explore Kadamakkudy, Vypin, and Bolgatty Islands
- Chinese Fishing Nets & Local Seafood
Nearby: Cherai Beach, Lulu Mall, Cochin Spice Market
6. Bekal, Kerala: Untouched Coastal Backwaters
While famous for its sea-facing fort, Bekal in North Kerala also offers tranquil backwaters.
Things to Explore:
- Valiyaparamba Backwaters: Less commercialized, ideal for peaceful cruises
- Bekal Hole Aqua Park: Paddle boating, water cycles
- Stay in Coastal Resorts
Tip: Combine with visits to Kasaragod’s temples and beaches
7. Kavvayi Backwaters, Kerala: Hidden Gem in Kannur
Kavvayi, near Payyanur in northern Kerala, is a hidden paradise.
Activities:
- Canoe Rides through Mangroves
- Stay in Eco Huts and Houseboats
- Photograph Birdlife and Sunrise Views
Why Visit?: Off-the-beaten-path charm and cultural authenticity
8. Vembanad Lake: The Lifeline of Kerala’s Backwaters
Spanning multiple districts, Vembanad is South India’s longest lake and integral to Kerala’s backwater network.
Experience:
- Shikara Rides
- Village Visits on both Alleppey and Kumarakom sides
- Kumarakom–Pathiramanal Island–Alleppey Loop
Best Time: October to March
9. Karnataka Backwaters: Netravati & Sharavathi
Though less known, Karnataka has emerging backwater circuits near Mangalore and Honnavar.
Options:
- Netravati River Cruises (Mangalore)
- Sharavathi Backwaters: Kayaking, birdwatching, island camping
- Boating at Aghanashini Estuary
Best For: Nature photography, solitude, offbeat experiences
10. Pondicherry Backwaters: Paradise Beyond the Promenade
In Pondicherry, backwaters meet colonial charm. The Ariyankuppam and Chunnambar backwaters offer a scenic retreat.
Must-Do:
- Boat Rides to Paradise Beach
- Kayaking in Mangroves
- Stay in Riverfront Resorts
Extra Tip: Sunset from Chunnambar Boat House is unforgettable
Houseboat Experience in South India
Nothing symbolizes South Indian backwaters more than a houseboat stay. Originally used as grain barges, these kettuvallams are now floating homes with all comforts.
Features:
- Wooden hulls, thatched roofs, open decks
- Air-conditioned bedrooms, dining areas
- Private chef serving Kerala meals
- Solar-powered & eco-friendly models available
Types:
- Day Cruise: 3–6 hours
- Overnight Stay: Full experience
- Premium Houseboats: Jacuzzi, private balconies, entertainment systems
Eco & Responsible Travel Tips
- Choose certified eco-friendly houseboats
- Say no to single-use plastics
- Respect local customs and dress modestly
- Support local artisans (coir, handloom, spice vendors)
- Conserve water and electricity onboard
Backwater Activities to Enrich Your Journey
- Birdwatching: Especially in Kumarakom, Kavvayi, Ashtamudi
- Fishing & Crab Catching: Participate with locals
- Ayurvedic Massages: Spa sessions in water-front resorts
- Village Walks & Cycling
- Cultural Shows: Kathakali, Theyyam in local homestays
Suggested Backwater Itineraries
5-Day Kerala Backwater Cruise
- Day 1: Kochi Arrival, City Tour
- Day 2: Alleppey – Houseboat Cruise
- Day 3: Kumarakom – Bird Sanctuary
- Day 4: Kollam – Ashtamudi Lake
- Day 5: Departure via Trivandrum
7-Day Backwater & Beach Combo
- Alleppey > Kumarakom > Varkala > Poovar > Kovalam
10-Day Extended Backwater Circuit
- Kochi > Alleppey > Kuttanad > Kollam > Ashtamudi > Vembanad > Kavvayi > Bekal
When to Visit South India’s Backwaters
- October to March: Cool and ideal for cruises
- July to September: Monsoon magic, lush landscapes, but some limitations
- April to June: Hot, but low season rates
Conclusion: Float Into Bliss
South India’s backwaters are not just destinations—they are experiences that linger in your memory. From the rhythmic sound of paddles to the sight of coconut palms swaying above mirrored waters, each moment is meditative.
Whether you choose a luxurious houseboat in Alleppey, a birdwatching walk in Kumarakom, or a kayaking trip in Kavvayi, the South India Backwater Bliss will rejuvenate your soul and bring you closer to the region’s gentle rhythms.
Plan your journey today with MustSeeIndia.in—your trusted guide to immersive, authentic, and unforgettable South India travel.