Location - Kerala
Best Time to Visit - October to March
Backwaters are one of the prime tourist draws in Kerala. Backwaters is a
body of stagnant water connected to a river. The experience that backwaters
provide cannot be summed up in words. The beauty is spectacular and the feel
is heavenly. Kerala, is called as God's Own Country and to a great extent,
Backwaters add to this overall title.
According to a folklore, a warrior sage Parasuraman, reclaimed Kerala from
the sea by the throw from his battle- axe. Whatever the legends point
towards, the fact is that the huge necklace of canals, lagoons, lakes and
rivers that Kerala holds are termed commonly as the Backwaters. The land of
Kerala becomes special of holding a unique feature like backwater, which is
found no where in this world. The 41 west flowing rivers of Kerala form the
backbone to this magnificent gift of nature.
The Magical Backwaters
The
Backwaters of Kerala are a gateway for the visitors to have a closer glimpse
of the village rural life of Kerala. The life of the people of Kerala are
tough and is labour-intensive. Cultivation, sand mining, coir manufacture,
limestone collection are some of the works people are engaged in. These
backwaters are like a part of the livelihoods of the people of Kerala.
Backwater Cruising
One can cruise along the backwaters of Kerala in Houseboat commonly termed
as 'Kettuvalloms'. While travelling in them, one can see the vivid beauty of
Kerala countryside like Kerala lagoons, swaying palm trees and various other
aspects of Kerala. Some of the mesmerising backwater destinations are:
Alapuzha (Alleppey) - Alapuzha is also famous as "
Venice Of The East". It has a large network of canals. This is also a
major venue for the boat races. The journey winds through the small canals
out into the Vembanad lake. The place is also called as Kuutanad. Kuttanad
was once the rice bowl of Kerala. It is one of the few places below sea
level. Sitting on a Kettuvalloms, one can have a look at the graceful paddy
fields.
Kumarakom - Kumarakom is another paradisaical
backwater destination of Kerala. It is located on Lake Vembanad. This
backwater destination has been discovered just a decade ago. The lagoon and
the coconut groves here, offers spectacular view. Most of the travel books
would certainly boast of the beauty of Kumarakom. Water Ducks, Siberian
cranes are the regular visitors here. The 14-acre bird sanctuary in
Kumarakom adds to the overall beauty of the place. Improved forms of
Kettuvalloms float here, which are fully equipped with all types of luxury.
Kottayam - Commonly known as the land of lakes and
latex, Kottayam is also a heavenly backwater destination that is one of the
favourites of both inbound and outbound tourists. The scenic beauty and
serenity are the major USP'S of the place.
