Cruising the backwaters of Kerala by houseboat

While India is known for its extravagant attractions, be it the timeless and majestic Taj Mahal or the sacredness of The Golden Temple, one can also embrace a slower pace of travel that lends itself to the absorption of the beauty and ambience around you.

The ‘backwaters’ of Kerala are a 900-kilometre labyrinth of meandering canals, comparable to the bayous of the USA, but fringed with verdant palm trees and serene, emerald waters that encroach upon some of the most beautiful areas of unspoiled countryside in the region.

Constructed centuries ago for transporting cargo, traditional boats called kettuvallam would make recurrent journeys from isolated villages to traders in town. However, as they fell out of use throughout time, the vessels transformed into houseboats and became one of the region’s preeminent attractions.

Kerala’s backwaters are a bustling hub of local life, providing a fascinating insight into everyday activities. Commuting, fishing and farming are frequently undertaken on the backwaters and you may glide past homes, paddy fields, coconut groves, churches, temples, toddy shops and wildlife, giving you a glimpse into the vibrant tapestry of local life.

Where are the Kerala backwaters?

Located in the southwestern coast of India, the Kerala backwaters stretch across various districts, primarily extending from the major port city of Kochi to coastal Kollam. The main starting point for most backwater cruises is Alleppey, also known as ‘Venice of the East’ for its network of canals.

The backwaters consist of a vast network of interconnected canals, lakes, and lagoons that run parallel to the Arabian Sea coast. The main backwater regions in Kerala include the Vembanad Lake, Ashtamudi Lake, and the interconnected canals and waterways in and around Alappuzha.

What are Keralan houseboats like?

Keralan houseboats come in a variety of shapes and sizes, typically showcasing the traditional architecture of the region and built from a range of locally sourced materials such as bamboo, coir, and wood.

The interior offers a spacious living area furnished with comfortable seating arrangements, as well as well-appointed bedrooms with comfortable beds, alongside attached bathrooms featuring Western-style amenities. A separate dining area is available with meals prepared by the onboard chef, and one can ascend to the deck for stunning panoramic views of the scenery.

What will I see on my journey?

The backwaters offer breathtaking views of lush green paddy fields, coconut groves, and picturesque villages along the banks. You will also witness fishermen at work, locals commuting in small boats, and the daily activities of the riverside communities. As well as basking in the natural beauty, there are a range of activities you can explore!

Many houseboat journeys include stops at riverside villages, allowing you to interact with the locals and learn about their culture. You can explore the villages, engage in local workshops, visit temples and churches, and experience the local hospitality.

You can also try your hand at fishing (many crews provide fishing equipment), enjoy bird watching to capture some esoteric ‘lifers’, or even enjoy the ancient art of ‘Ayurvedic Massage’ – a holistic healing technique that uses therapeutic oils to induce relaxation.

What measures are being implemented to promote sustainability?

The idyllic scenery and traditional lifestyle you can witness on your tour have existed for centuries; it provides an insight into a perennial way of life which has scarcely altered for modernity. In order to preserve the culture and environment, it’s important that sustainability measures are considered and respected.

Unfortunately, the traditional industries of the region are in decline, however, responsible tourism, such as the tours curated by Odyssey World, can reinvigorate the surrounding localities: be it by limiting visitor numbers, encouraging eco-friendly transportation options, or engaging with local communities.

There are also numerous efforts undertaken to ensure the preservation of the area – from establishing protected areas, implementing water purification systems, effective composting practices and reforestation projects – the future looks bright for the vitality of this beautiful area!

The perfect getaway for those seeking a slower pace of travel, browse our selection of eclectic Indian itineraries or contact us directly to personalise your trip and ensure you get the most out of your experience! Email us at enquiries@odyssey-world.co.uk or give us a call!