Backwaters of Kerala are one of the main attractions of the state. Backwaters are chain of brackish lagoons and lakes lying parallel to the Arabian Sea coast of Kerala. The backwaters were formed by the action of waves and shore currents creating low barrier islands across the mouths of the many rivers flowing down from the Western Ghats range. The backwaters of Kerala stretch to over 1900km. The backwaters of Kerala provide the best and ideal way to explore the natural beauty of Kerala. The best way to explore the beautiful and serene backwaters of Kerala is to cruise through the traditional houseboats (Kettuvallams).

Kettuvallams are large traditional country crafts and over 60 ft. in length. These boats have been converted into luxury houseboats for backwater cruises. Locally, these houseboats are called Kayals. The main backwaters towns of Kerala are Kollam (Quilon), Alappuzha (Alleppey) and Kottayam. These houseboats cross shallow, palm-fringed lakes studded with Chinese fishing nets. As you cruise along the backwaters, you will hear the sound of water rippling alongside your houseboat and you feel completely relaxed in the serene environment. The backwater cruise is the best way to explore the countryside, swaying palm trees and rice fields.

Kumarakom Backwaters
Kumarakom has blossomed into a beautiful backwater holiday destination with its spectacular lagoon fringed by coconut groves that have almost become an icon of Kerala tourism. Kumarakom also boasts of a 14-acre bird sanctuary where one can spot several of avian species such as water ducks, cuckoos and Siberian storks. Bedsides the breathtaking backwaters other attractions at Kumarakom are Coconut Lagoon and Englishman Henry Baker's bungalow that has now been converted into a heritage hotel by the Taj group are the chief attractions of Kumarakom.

Kollam Backwaters
Kollam is one of the most popular backwaters destinations in Kerala. With its maze of rivers, lakes and lagoons, Kollam is a popular travel destination where you can have splendid views of the glorious Kayamkulam Lake and the Ashtamudi Lake. You can explore the real beauty of the backwaters in the traditional Kerala houseboats, known as Kettuvalams locally.