backwaters

Alappuzha

Alappuzha has a large network of canals and is the center of backwater cruises in Kerala. 65 kms south of Cochin, Alappuzha has a large net-work of canals and is the centre of backwater cruises in Kerala. The Nehru Trophy boat race, one of the most colourful boat races of Kerala, is held here on the second Saturday of August every year.

Rice boat cruising is centred around Alleppey - one can undertake tours of one, two, three nights per choice. These boats can accommodate 2, 4, 6 and 8 persons on each boat; prior booking is necessary.

Kumarakom

Kumarakom is the ideal place of back water cruises. Approx. 90 kms south east of Cochin, 14 kms west of Kottayam, lies the most beautiful land consisting of Resorts and Bird Sanctuary. Kumarakom is an ideal place of backwater cruises. The sanctuary is situated on the eastern banks of Vembanad lake. The sanctuary sprawls over an area of 14 acres and birds like Chuckoo,Wild Duch, etc. are seen here in plenty. Open from 10 am to 6 pm.

Kollam

The enchanting tourist spot, is an old sea port town on the banks of Ashtamudi lake. Kollam is the gateway point of the back waters of Kerala. Portuguese were the first Europeans to establish a trading center at Kollam, followed by the Dutch and the British.