The backwaters of Kerala – meandering inland lakes networked by canals – stretch to over 900Km. Boat trips across these tranquil stretches are an experience unique to Kerala. Large kettuwalloms ( traditional country crafts over 60 feet in length ) have been converted into luxury house boats for these cruises.

Thiruvallam : (10 Km from Thiruvananthapuram) This serene backwater stretch, enroute to Kovalm, is famous for its 2000- year old temple on the banks of the river Karamana, canoe rides, Kayaking and cruises in traditional houseboats.

Kappil : (53 Km from Thiruvananthapuram) A confluence of the sea, river and the backwater, this secluded, picturesque spot is worth the visit.

Kollam : (71 Km to the North of Thiruvananthapuram) One of the oldest ports in the state, Kollam is where the magnificent netwok of waterways begins. From the famed Ashtamudi lake, known as the gateway to the backwaters, a 130 Km long system of interlinked canals and lakes winds all the way to the North. The 8 hour trip from here to Alappuzha is the longest backwater cruise in Kerala. An important stop during the cruise is the picturesque little village of Alumkadavu , home of the skilled artisans who crafts the enormous Kettuvalloms.

Alappuzha : (Refered to as the Venice of the East, This backwater country is with its vast netwok of lakes, lagoons, and fresh water river is the immensely beautiful. Venue for the world- renownd snake boat races, Alappuzha is also famous for its marine products and coir industry. Kuttanad in Alappuzha, known as the rice bowl of Kerala, is the very heart of the backwaters and is one of the few places in the world where farming is done below sea level. The enchating island of Pathiramanal (Sands of Midnight) on the backwaters is a favourite haunt of hundreds of rare migratory birds from different parts of the world.

Kumarakom : ( 10Km from Kottayam.) Nested among lush paddy fields, highlands extensive rubber plantations is Kumarakom, one of the most popular and the most beautiful backwater stretches of Kerala. On exotic picnic spot, Kumarakom provides boating, fishing and sight seeing expereinces that are truly exhilarating. An exclusive attraction is the bird sanctuary, which is an ornithologist paradise.

Kochi : A cluster of islands and a vast expanse of the Vembanad lake, Kochi is one of the finest harbours of the world, is more popular as the Queen of the Arabian sea . Half the fun of visiting Kochi is going about in the local Ferries. A conducted cruise through the winding waterways will take you to sevral quaint spots including the picturesque islands of Bolgatty, Vypen, Gundu, and Vallarpadam.

Kozhikode : Unexplored and unspoiled, the backwaters of Kozhikode hold great promises of delightful holiday options. Elathur, the Canoli canal and the Kallai river are favourite places for Boating. Kadalundi, with its beatiful bird sanctuary and the Korapuzha, the venue of the Korapuzha jalotsavam (water fiesta) are popular tourist destinations.

Valiyaparamba : (30 Km from Bekal fort in Kasargod) This is perhaps the most scenic backwater stretching Kerala. Fed by four rivers and dotted with numerous little islands, ou can explore backwaters in a houseboat along the Tejaswini river – Kottappuram in Nileswaram to Kannur through the Valiyaparamba backwaters.