Kerala is known for its panoramic backwater stretches, lush green paddy fields, highlands and beaches.The entire state of Kerala is blessed with plenty of rivers and the resources of many are still untapped. The waterways of Kerala play a main role in the economy of the state, links remote villages and islands with the main land. The water ways provide a cheap and economical mode of transport. It is incredibly different experience to cruise in the backwaters in country boats, absorbing the beauty of Kerala villages. The scenery flashes up vivid contrasts of breath-taking greens and deep blues. Boat rides, houseboat cruises and holiday packages are available for tourist and others at nominal rates.

Kumarakom
Alappuzha
Veli Aakulam Lagoon
Ashtamudi Lake

Kumarakom

The largest of the backwaters in kerala is the Vembanadu lake, in the central Kerala. An unbelievably beautiful paradise of mangrove forests, emerald green paddy fields and coconut groves interspersed with enchanting waterways and canals adorned with while lillies - this is Kumarakom

Kumarakom slumbers on the banks of the famous Vembanad Lake. The Vembanad Lake with its majestic canals, streams and distributaries along its banks weave an intricate and enchantingly beautiful web. The gorgeous green of the fringed palms ripple in the blue waters and blend into wavelets.Kumarakom is identified as one of the top 50 beautiful life time destinations in the world by the national geographic magazine

Alappuzha

Alappuzha is famous for its boat races, houseboats, coir products, fish and lakes. Alappuzha remains prominent on the tourist trial of Kerela as one of the major centers for backwater boat trips. "Kuttanad" in Alappuzha is one of few places in the world where farming is done below sea level. Kuttanad is a land of lush paddy fields and is called the 'Rice Bowl' of Kerela. Kuttanad stretches for 75 Km sandwiched between the sea and the hills. Kuttanad is the most beautiful backwaters region of Kerala. It is here that most of the snake boat races are conducted and a majority of the rice boat & houseboat cruises are scheduled. Kerala's network of navigable backwaters stretches to over 900km. These serene waterways are fringed by palm grove and paddy fields and offer a striking spectacle of the rustic life.
Situated in Kuttanad popularly known as the rice bowl of Kerala, QST & R Block Kayals (backwaters) remind the visitor of the famous dikes of Holland. A striking example of the indigenous agricultural engineering know-how, here cultivation and habitation are made possible at four to ten feet below the sea level. For this purpose extensive land has been reclaimed from the backwaters and is protected by dikes built around it. A leisurely cruise along the canals here is a memorable experience.s.

Veli Aakulam Lagoon

Veli Aakulam Lagoon is at the confluence of the Veli Lake and the Arabian Sea. The lagoon can be explored at leisure with pedalboats and paddleboats.It is situated at a short distance from Thiruvananthapuram. Even speedboats are available on hire. The Veli Tourist Village nearby offers picnic facilities to tourists.Here you can enjoy all kinds of water sports and dine at the floating restaurant.The place also provides the facility of an amusement park. The east end of the lake is flanked by two scenic hillocks.

Ashtamudi Lake

The Ashtamudi Lake, so named because of its eight 'arms' or channels is the gateway to the backwaters. Located in Kollam district, Ashtamudi is famed for its panoramic for its magnificent views. There are coconut groves and palm trees all along the banks of the lake and the monotony is broken by the quiet town of Kollam. The Kollam Boat Club provides boats to cruise on the lake.
You can also go on a backwater cruise starting at Kollam and ending the journey at Alappuzha. Beside the coconut palms, all along the waterline one can see the famous Chinese Vala or the Chinese fishing nets.