Kerala, India
The Kerala Backwaters are a unique and intricate network of brackish lagoons, lakes, canals, estuaries, and rivers lying parallel to the Arabian Sea coast in the Indian state of Kerala. This fascinating water system stretches over 900 kilometers, creating one of the most scenic and serene landscapes in India. The backwaters are both a vital part of Kerala’s ecosystem and a significant cultural and tourist attraction.
The backwaters are 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. These include major rivers like the Periyar, Pamba, Meenachil, Achankovil, and Chalakkudy.
The backwaters are more than just a tourist attraction – they are integral to daily life. Residents use canoes and small boats for transportation. Fishing, farming (especially rice and coconut), and coir-making are common livelihoods.
One notable region is Kuttanad, often called the “Rice Bowl of Kerala,” where farming is done below sea level, a rare agricultural practice.
The Kerala Backwaters are not only a scenic wonder but also a vibrant cultural and spiritual hub. Lined with ancient temples, churches, and mosques, the region reflects Kerala’s rich religious diversity and communal harmony. Major festivals like Onam, boat races, and temple celebrations are deeply tied to the backwater lifestyle. Sacred sites such as Aranmula Temple, Champakulam Church, and Thazhathangady Mosque highlight the spiritual depth of the area. Traditional arts, rituals, and water-based festivals make the backwaters a living tapestry of Kerala’s heritage, faith, and community life.
The Kerala Backwaters host a rich variety of wildlife, thriving in their unique mix of freshwater and brackish ecosystems. They are home to vibrant birdlife such as kingfishers, egrets, cormorants, and migratory birds like Siberian cranes, especially around sanctuaries like Kumarakom. The waters teem with Karimeen (pearl spot fish), prawns, crabs, and mussels, supporting both biodiversity and local livelihoods. You can also spot otters, water snakes, frogs, and occasionally monitor lizards along the banks. The surrounding mangroves and wetlands provide vital breeding grounds, making the backwaters a natural paradise for wildlife lovers.
The best time to visit Kerala is from October to March. During these months, the weather is pleasant, cool, and ideal for exploring the beaches, backwaters, hill stations, and wildlife sanctuaries. This season offers clear skies, comfortable temperatures (20°C to 30°C), and minimal rainfall, making it perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Summer (April to May) can be hot and humid, though hill stations remain cooler and appealing during this time.
Monsoon season (June to September) Monsoon season (June to September) brings heavy rains, which can disrupt travel but is great for Ayurveda and witnessing lush greenery.
Winter Season between September & February is the peak season in Kerala considered the best time for visiting Kerala backwaters and for visiting the tourist places like Munnar and backwaters for which Kerala is renowned worldwide.
Kerala is well connected by air, rail, road, and sea, making it easy to access from anywhere in India and abroad.
By Road : Kerala is accessible by road via the National Highways connecting to neighboring states like Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh. Regular bus services operate from major cities.
By Train : Kerala is well-connected by the Indian Railways network. Major railway stations include Kochi, Trivandrum, Alappuzha, Kozhikode, and Kannur
By Air : Kerala has three international airports — Kochi (Cochin International Airport), Trivandrum (Thiruvananthapuram International Airport), and Calicut (Kozhikode Airport). Kochi is the busiest and most well-connected airport with flights from major global hubs.
Kerala is world-famous for its authentic Ayurveda, an ancient system of natural healing focused on balancing the body, mind, and spirit. The state’s tropical climate, rich herbal resources, and skilled practitioners make it an ideal destination for Ayurvedic treatments.
Popular therapies include Panchakarma (detox), Abhyangam (oil massage), Shirodhara (oil pouring on the forehead), and Kizhi (herbal poultice massage). Many centers combine these treatments with yoga and meditation for holistic wellness.
Top destinations for Ayurveda in Kerala are Kottakkal, Alleppey, Kumarakom, Kovalam, and Munnar. Ayurveda in Kerala helps detoxify the body, relieve chronic ailments, reduce stress, and promote overall well-being.
