11 Dreamy Photos of Kerala's Backwaters Attractions

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Updated on 10/14/19

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The Kerala backwaters is the rather unappealing name given to the picturesque network of lagoons, lakes, rivers, and canals that run inland from the coast of Kerala, from Cochin to Kollam (Quilon). These photos around the Kerala backwaters show some of the area's attractions, which make the Kerala backwaters one of the top travel destinations in Kerala.

A quintessential experience is a trip along the backwaters in a houseboat. You can hire a houseboat for as little as a few hours or as long as a week! It's up to you. Find out more about houseboats in Kerala and how best to visit the Kerala backwaters.

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Villages on the Kerala Backwaters

Kerala Backwaters village. — Ania Blazejewska/Getty Images

The backwaters are inhabited, and you'll come across many small homes dotting even the narrowest of canals. Some require canoes to move around.

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People Waiting for a Water Taxi

In addition to canoes, water taxi is a popular means of transport for the villagers who live along the Kerala backwaters.

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Church on the Kerala Backwaters

Kerala backwaters church. — GARDEL Bertrand / hemis.fr/ Getty Images

There are even colorful churches along the Kerala backwaters that village communities attend.

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Life on the Kerala Backwaters

Life along the Kerala backwaters is simple and largely self-sufficient.

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Kerala Backwaters Paddy Fields

Kerala backwater paddy fields. — vinod kumar m/Getty Images

Farming is a major occupation along the Kerala backwaters, and the paddy fields are so lush and peaceful.

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Herding Ducks on the Kerala Backwaters

Kerala herding ducks. — Peter Adams/Getty Images

It's not unusual to come across duck farmers herding huge flocks of ducks along the Kerala backwaters!

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Fishing on the Kerala Backwaters

Villagers fishing in backwater canals around Kumarakom — Richard I'Anson/Getty Images

Fishing in Kerala is still carried out using traditional methods, including nets that are cast by hand. Most fishing is done at night, and is also an activity you can participate in. Even if you don't catch anything, the experience is memorable in itself. The fish is sold fresh at local markets and cooked up in delicious Kerala-style cuisine.

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Snake Boat Races

Snake boat races are a popular monsoon season activity, held between July and September each year. Many of them take place during the Onam festival. The origin of the races can be traced back more than 400 years, to the kings of Alleppey (Alappuzha) and the surrounding areas. They used to fight with each other in boats along the canals.

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Homestays on the Kerala Backwaters

A few nights spent at a Kerala homestay is the perfect way to really get a feel for life along the Kerala backwaters. Vembanad House is a premium homestay located on the banks of Vembanad Lake, near Alleppey. Bordered by waterfront on three sides, it's a true retreat from the rest of the world, and the perfect place to rejuvenate and enjoy delicious come cooked Kerala cuisine. Take a look at these 9 Top Homestays in Alleppey on the Kerala Backwaters for the best options.

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Resorts on the Kerala Backwaters

If you'd prefer a resort to a homestay, there are some luxurious ones right by the waterfront on Vembanad Lake. Many have wellness spas that offer Ayurvedic treatments. Check out these 10 Relaxing Kumarakom Hotels and Resorts for recommendations.