Kerala’s backwaters with its network of rivers and canals through forests offer an opportunity to have a glimpse into the unhurried everyday life. This slow pace often makes Kerala a perfect spot to finish an Indian holiday. This area can either be explored by a private houseboat or one can stay in one of the area's many resorts or boutique homestays, and enjoy the wonderful views.
The waterways ae surrounded by a verdant landscape, interesting wildlife, charming villages and beautiful lagoons. While exploring the backwaters once can expect to see the villagers washing clothes on the banks of the water as part of their daily life, children playing and attending school, fishermen and bird waiting for their next catch!
The true highlights of any Keralan holiday is an overnight cruise on a traditional riceboat locally known as ‘Kettuvallams’. These long crafts line the shores and are used to take visitors through the labyrinth of lakes, lagoons and rivers.
The standard cruise begins with a lunch on board, once the guests have checked in and taken off from the jetty. The afternoon is spent meandering through the backwaters canals and lush paddy fields. The visitors use the open lounge and deck to relax and appreciate the scenic surroundings. Late afternoon, there is an option of changing to a smaller canoe which can go deeper into narrow canals, lush greenery, closer to the villages and rural lifestyle. Return to the houseboat, out your feet up and witness a magnificent sunset on the Vembanad lake while the boat more for the night. Sit down for yet another delicious meal by the team which may consists of Kerala fish with the traditional coconut curries.
Whilst onboard, you will learn how these houseboats are keeping the local skill of hand spinning coir products is being kept alive.
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Suggested Holidays With Kerala Backwaters & Houseboats:
CLASSIC KERALA
9 NIGHTS
Tropical Kerala is India's most tranquil and unhurried state. The region has an abundance of tea plantations, forested hills, swaying palms and backwaters. The southern state is an excellent introduction to India. This classic journey begins in the historic city of Cochin with its colourful spice markets to the rolling hills and tea plantations of Munnar. From here travel to the spice plantations of Periyar, where some rare wildlife can be spotted. Explore the backwaters on a rice barge before staying on one of the most famous beaches for relaxation.
KERALA - FAMILY ADVENTURE
10 NIGHTS
This holiday to tropical Kerala meanders slowly through the lush countryside. From the port city of Cochin, to the lovely homestay in rural Kerala run by a local family, you will visit farm lands, visit villages, enjoy cooking demonstrations and much more. Head to the backwaters to stay in a village, before boarding your private houseboat to experience the unhurried life along the banks. Finally relax on the sandy beaches of a fishing village.
CLASSIC GOLDEN TRIANGLE & KERALA
17 NIGHTS
This classic Golden Triangle and Kerala holiday combines the unforgettable cities and sights of the celebrated Golden Triangle in the north, with exploration of one of the country’s most beautiful and lush states, Kerala, in the south.
KERALA & THE MALDIVES
10 NIGHTS
Travelling across the most beautiful state of Kerala, followed by a relaxing stay on the pristine beaches of the Maldives this holiday is perfect for both exploration and relaxation. Start your travels from the bustling port city of Cochin, head up to the hills of Munnar with its rolling tea estates to explore the tea plantations and beautiful valleys. From Munnar drive down the western ghats to Periyar Tiger Reserve and its spice gardens. Next stay on a private houseboat on the backwaters and witness some of the spectacular scenery. The last few days are spent on the white sandy beaches of the Maldives.
TEMPLES OF TAMILNADU & KERALA BACKWATERS
10 NIGHTS
South India has been known as a melting pot of religions and cultures. In this itinerary you unfold the mystical Tamil Nadu, its imperial past, Dravidian roots and rural gems before ending in the tropical Kerala. Begin by exploring the World Heritage Sites of Mahabalipuram, wandering in the streets of colonial Pondicherry and then travelling to the temple towns of Tamilnadu. These living temples reflect their glorious past and with thousands of pilgrims worshipping everyday they are a treat to visit. Explore the backwaters on a rice barge before relaxing in the historic city of Cochin.
Indian food is as diverse as its culture & heritage and this journey is an 'insider's experience' to the amazing diversity and flavours of southern India with a culinary passage through a variety of cuisines that differ from region to region. Into On this tour sample some of the most spectacular sights, learn cooking practices passed on from one generation to the other, trek through the spice plantations, shop in the local markets for key ingredients and learn to cook some very traditional dishes. Start in the historical Mysore and continue through the western ghats into Kerala and its backwaters. Each day on this tour provides a fascinating peek into the culinary traditions. Before relaxing on the shores of Arabian Sea.
Build Your Tailor-Made Holiday to India
As well as luxury holidays, we've also built many different India itineraries for families and honeymoon couples who want to see the best parts the country has to offer.
The holiday itineraries above are examples of ones we have created previously in India, and give you a good idea on the time needed to see many of the idyllic places mentioned above. If you would like more information on a specific area, or a certain hotel, please get in touch with us.
Perfect for:
Culture, Wildlife, Family, Honeymoon, Cruises, Trains, Beach, Relaxation, Adventure, Food, Photography
Time difference:
GMT+ 4.5 hours
When to go:
October to April
International Airports:
Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Cochin, Tiruvanathpuram, Goa, Amritsar
Flight duration:
8-9 hours approx
Vaccinations:
Some are recommended or required by the Centres for Disease Control and the World Health Organisation (WHO).
Tailored Journeys is about helping you explore one of the most fascinating and beautiful regions on earth, in style. Even if – especially if – you don’t know where to start, call us now to talk about creating your own Tailored Journey – and let the dream begin.
