God's own country kerala

BACKWATERS OF KERALA

The backwaters of Kerala - meandering inland lakes networked by canals. stretch to over 1900km. boat trips across these tranquil stretches are an experience unique to kerala. large kettuvalloms (traditional country crafts over 60ft. in length) have been converted into luxury houseboats for these cruises.

Kollam backwater one of the oldest ports of the Malabar coast, kollam was once the centre of the international spice trade. north of thiruvananthapuram,30% of this historic town is covered by the renowned Ashtamudi lake. the eight hour boat trip between kollam and Alappuzha is the longest and most enchanting experience of Kerala's backwaters. Situated 75km from Thiruvananthapuram. Frequent buses are available from Thiruvananthapuram.

Kuttanad, known as the rice bowl of kerala because of her wealth of paddy crops, is the very heart of the backwaters. the scenic countryside here is a rich crop of bananas, yams and casava. this is one of the places in the world where farming is done below sea level. inland waterways which flow above and land level is an amazing feature of this unique land. Situated in alappuzha district. 64km from kochi. Frequent buses, boats are available from kochi.

Kumarakom the rich green, sleepy little village of Kumarakom on the Vembanad lake. an enchanting picnic spot and a fast developing backwater tourism destination, kumarakom provides boats, fishing and sightseeing experiences that are truly exhilarating. the kumarakom bird sanctuary is an ornithologist's paradise. a cruise along the Vembanad lade is the best way to view the bird life. Situated in Kottayam district. 88km from kochi. Frequent buses, boats are available from kochi & Kottayam.

Alumkadavu along the vast expanse of the Kayamkulam lake is the picturesque little village of Alumkadavu. this is the home of the skilled artisans who crated the enormous Kettuvalloms in yester years. Situated in kollam district. 79km from kochi & 23km from kollam. Frequent buses, boats are available from kochi & kollam.