Kerala
backwater as the name suggests is not any place in itself but a collection
of fascinating sites for which tourists can be seen craving. The backwaters
of Kerela refer to several waterways originating in the coastal region and
includes rivers, lakes and natural canals. The interlinking or confluencing
points of these waterways are known as backwater. One can experience the
beauty of the tranquil backwater of Kerala while sailing on a traditional
Ketuvalloms, houseboats, at different Kerala backwater destinations. A visit
to Kerala Backwater offers you a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of
Kerala with swaying palm trees, emerald rice fields and the green
countryside. The unique ecosystem of the backwater consists of rich flora
and fauna.
Houseboats
Houseboat in Kerala locally known as Kettuvallom is a country boat that was
used to in the early days for the transport of goods. Now these are major
tourist attractions in Kerala. A ride in the Kettuvallom is a fabulous way
to explore the fascinating beauty of the backwater. These houseboats are
made of eco-friendly materials like bamboo poles, coconut fibre, bamboo
mats, carpets etc. There are houseboats with fully furnished single or
double rooms. Each has private balcony with comfortable chairs, kitchen &
toilet.
Attractions
There are a number of scenic backwater destinations in Kerala which are
popular among tourists for its scenic attraction. The major ones are :
»
Alappuzha Backwater - This is one of the most famous centre for
backwater boat trip. Previously known as Alleppy, it is surrounded by
waterways and canals and so called the "Venice of the East".
Alappuzha is also known for its coir industry and the famous snake boat
race. The palm fringed beaches are the major attractions of Alappuzha in
Kerala.
» Cochin - Cochin now known as Kochi is one of the
most visited backwater destinations of Kerala. This is the commercial
capital of Kerala and so many backwater cruises begins and ends here. Kochi
also called the "Queen of the Arabian Sea", which attracts many
visitors round the year.
» Kollam - Located just 70 km away from the Kerala,
Kollam is the gateway to the fascinating backwater life of Kerala. This is
an ancient seaport situated on the bank of the Ashtamudi Lake which offers a
magical backwater cruise from Kollam to Alappuzha.
» Kumarakom Backwaters - This is situated on the
beautiful Vembanad Lake. The bird sanctuary, tourist resorts along the
backwater and the picturesque beauty of the mangroves, coconut palms, and
the paddy fields make it a paradise on earth. This is an ideal holiday
destination in Kumarakom Kerala backwater tour.
» Kottayam - Known as the land of
Letters, Latex and Lakes, the district Kottyam is one of the most visited
backwater destinations of Kerala. The beautiful Vembanand Lake and the
scenic hill ranges in the east will surely enchanted you.
»
Thiruvananthapuram - Previously known as Trivandrum, this is the capital
of Kerala and is the starting point of a tour to the Kerala Backwater
destinations.
How to Reach
Kerala is connected to all parts of India by all the three modes of
transportation.
» Air - The International airports at
Thiruvanathapuram, Kochi, Calicut have airline services to different parts
of India like Bangalore, Chennai, Mumbai etc.
» Rail - Kerala is connected to all major tourist
destinations and important cities by regular train services.
» Road - An excellent road network connects the
state with other major cities of South India. The major modes of road
transports are buses, taxis, cars and auto-rickshaws.
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