Subhash
raman Staff answered 5 months ago
The Kerala Backwaters offer a range of activities that provide visitors with unique and memorable experiences. Here are some of the top activities you can enjoy in the Kerala Backwaters, along with relevant information for those planning to visit:
1. Houseboat Cruises
Description: Houseboat cruises are the most popular activity in the Kerala Backwaters. These traditional Kettuvallams (houseboats) offer an intimate experience of the serene waterways, surrounded by lush greenery and tranquil landscapes.
Details:
Duration: Cruises can be booked for a day, overnight, or even multiple days.
Facilities: Modern houseboats come with amenities such as air-conditioned rooms, attached bathrooms, dining areas, and even kitchens.
Operators: Reliable operators include Alleppey Houseboats, and Rainbow Cruises.
Cost: Prices vary based on the type of houseboat and duration of the cruise, ranging from INR 7,000 to INR 20,000 per night.
2. Canoeing and Kayaking
Description: For a more immersive experience, canoeing and kayaking through the narrow canals and waterways offer close-up views of the local flora and fauna.
Details:
Duration: Half-day or full-day trips are available.
Operators: Local tour operators and resorts often arrange these activities.
Cost: Typically ranges from INR 1,000 to INR 3,000 per person.
3. Village Tours
Description: Explore the traditional Kerala villages and get a glimpse of rural life. Visit local homes, paddy fields, coconut plantations, and experience traditional Kerala hospitality.
Details:
Duration: Half-day or full-day tours.
Activities: Interact with villagers, watch coir making, pottery, and other traditional crafts.
Operators: Offered by local tour operators and houseboat services.
Cost: Usually between INR 1,500 to INR 3,500 per person.
4. Bird Watching
Description: The Kerala Backwaters are home to a variety of bird species, making it a paradise for bird watchers. Common sightings include kingfishers, cormorants, herons, and egrets.
Details:
Best Locations: Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Pathiramanal Island.
Guided Tours: Available through bird sanctuaries and eco-tourism operators.
Cost: Entry fee for sanctuaries is typically INR 100 to INR 200. Guided tours may cost more.
5. Fishing
Description: Engage in traditional fishing methods or simply enjoy a relaxing fishing experience on the calm waters.
Details:
Duration: Available as a part of houseboat cruises or village tours.
Equipment: Provided by tour operators or houseboats.
Cost: Often included in the tour package or houseboat rental.
6. Ayurvedic Treatments and Spa
Description: Rejuvenate your body and mind with traditional Ayurvedic treatments and massages offered at various resorts and wellness centers.
Details:
Duration: Sessions can range from one hour to several days of treatment.
Centers: Kumarakom Lake Resort, Carnoustie Ayurveda & Wellness Resort.
Cost: Treatments range from INR 1,500 to INR 10,000 depending on the type and duration.
7. Cycling and Nature Walks
Description: Explore the scenic beauty of the backwaters and surrounding villages on a bicycle or by foot.
Details:
Duration: Flexible, depending on your preference.
Rentals: Available at hotels and resorts.
Cost: Bicycle rentals range from INR 200 to INR 500 per day. Guided nature walks may cost more.
8. Visiting Temples and Churches
Description: The Kerala Backwaters region is dotted with ancient temples and churches, reflecting the area’s rich cultural heritage.
Details:
Notable Sites: Ambalapuzha Sri Krishna Temple, St. Mary’s Forane Church.
Entry: Generally free, though some sites may charge a nominal fee.
9. Photography Tours
Description: Capture the stunning landscapes, vibrant local life, and unique flora and fauna of the backwaters.
Details:
Guided Tours: Offered by professional photographers and tour operators.
Cost: Prices vary based on the duration and level of guidance required.
10. Culinary Tours
Description: Taste the traditional Kerala cuisine, including fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and local delicacies.
Details:
Activities: Cooking classes, market visits, and dining experiences.
Operators: Offered by hotels, resorts, and specialized culinary tour operators.
Cost: Ranges from INR 2,000 to INR 5,000 per person.
Planning Tips:
Best Time to Visit: November to February is ideal for pleasant weather. Avoid the monsoon season (June to September) due to heavy rains.
Transportation: Nearest airports are in Kochi and Trivandrum. Local transportation includes taxis, buses, and trains.
Accommodation: Options range from budget homestays to luxury resorts. Book in advance, especially during peak season.
Health and Safety: Carry mosquito repellent, stay hydrated, and follow local guidelines for a safe and enjoyable trip.
The Kerala Backwaters offer a diverse range of activities that cater to different interests, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking to relax and rejuvenate.
Amit Khanna Staff answered 3 months ago
The Kerala backwaters are a unique network of interconnected canals, rivers, lakes, and inlets, making it a popular tourist destination. There are a variety of activities that visitors can enjoy while exploring the scenic beauty of the backwaters. Here are some of the top activities:
1. Houseboat Cruises
Traditional houseboats (Kettuvallams): The most iconic activity in Kerala’s backwaters is staying on a houseboat. These traditionally styled boats offer luxurious stays with modern amenities, floating through the serene waters.
Day tours and overnight stays: You can choose between short day cruises or overnight stays. During the journey, you’ll pass by villages, coconut groves, and paddy fields, while enjoying meals prepared with local flavors.
Popular backwater routes: The most popular routes for houseboat cruises are in Alleppey (Alappuzha) and Kumarakom.
2. Canoeing and Kayaking
Canoeing: For a more intimate experience of the backwaters, guided canoe trips are available. These small boats allow you to navigate through narrow canals that larger houseboats can’t access.
Kayaking: For the more adventurous, kayaking through the calm waters offers a unique way to explore the local flora and fauna up close. Kayaking tours often pass through smaller canals and less crowded areas, allowing for a peaceful experience.
3. Village Tours
Guided village walks: Explore the local villages along the backwaters, where you can witness traditional lifestyles, visit local markets, and see the art of coir (coconut fiber) weaving.
Agricultural visits: Some tours include visits to rice paddies, coconut plantations, or spice gardens, giving you a chance to learn about the region’s agricultural practices.
Cultural exchanges: You may have the opportunity to engage with the locals, learn about their culture, and even participate in cooking demonstrations or traditional music and dance.
4. Bird Watching
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: The backwaters, particularly around Kumarakom, are home to numerous species of migratory and resident birds. You can spot birds such as kingfishers, herons, egrets, cormorants, and even rare species like the Siberian crane.
Morning bird-watching tours: Early morning boat tours are the best time for bird watching, as the calm environment and mild weather attract a variety of birds to the backwaters.
5. Fishing
Traditional fishing: The locals in Kerala use traditional fishing techniques, and some tours allow visitors to try their hand at it. You can see fishermen using Chinese fishing nets or fishing with small hooks in shallow waters.
Freshwater fishing: The backwaters are rich in marine life, and fishing enthusiasts can spend time catching freshwater fish, which may include species like pearl spot fish (karimeen) or catfish.
6. Shikara Rides
Shikara boats: These are smaller, open boats compared to houseboats, offering a more personal and scenic experience. Shikara rides are ideal for a short, peaceful trip through the narrower backwater canals, where you can closely observe local life.
Sunset cruises: Shikara rides during sunset offer stunning views as the sky reflects on the water, creating a magical atmosphere.
7. Ayurvedic Spa and Wellness Retreats
Ayurvedic treatments: Kerala is known for its Ayurvedic traditions, and many backwater resorts offer wellness packages, including massages, herbal treatments, and yoga. These experiences can be enjoyed on houseboats or at waterside resorts.
Yoga sessions: Relaxing yoga sessions on the banks of the backwaters provide an excellent way to unwind amidst nature.
8. Temple and Historical Sightseeing
Ancient temples: While cruising the backwaters, you can stop at some of Kerala’s famous temples, such as Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple or Mannarasala Nagaraja Temple, known for their historical and religious significance.
Local landmarks: Some backwater regions have colonial-era architecture, old churches, and palaces that are worth visiting during your trip.
9. Photography
Scenic landscapes: The backwaters offer breathtaking photo opportunities, with their lush greenery, serene waters, and vibrant village life. Early mornings and sunsets provide the best light for capturing stunning shots.
Wildlife photography: Besides birds, you may also encounter butterflies, frogs, and even water snakes, making the backwaters a great spot for nature photography.
10. Local Cuisine Tasting
Seafood specialties: Freshly caught fish, prawns, and crabs are commonly served in houseboats and local restaurants. Traditional Kerala dishes like Karimeen Pollichathu (pearl spot fish marinated in spices and wrapped in banana leaves) are must-try dishes.
Toddy tasting: Toddy, a local palm wine, is made from coconut sap and is often available at toddy shops in the backwaters. It’s a unique experience to sample this local beverage while enjoying a traditional Kerala meal.
11. Backwater Resorts and Homestays
Stay in backwater resorts: Many luxury and boutique resorts are situated along the backwaters, offering scenic views and relaxing experiences.
Homestays: For a more immersive experience, staying in local homestays allows you to live like the locals, savor homemade Kerala meals, and experience local hospitality.
12. Explore the Islands
Pathiramanal Island: This small island in Vembanad Lake is a bird-watcher’s paradise and can be visited as part of a houseboat or boat tour.
Munroe Island: Located at the confluence of Ashtamudi Lake and the Kallada River, Munroe Island is known for its scenic beauty, traditional coir-making, and backwater canoeing.
Exploring the Kerala backwaters provides a mix of relaxation, cultural immersion, and adventure, making it a unique and memorable travel experience.