Kerala, also known as "God's Own Country," is a place of stunning natural beauty and abundant cultural heritage. Among its many marvels, the Kerala backwaters are an experience unlike any other and one of peace. This system of peaceful canals, lagoons, and lakes provides a glimpse into the relaxed way of life in Kerala. The most immersive way to experience this enchanted setting is by booking Kerala backwaters tour packages, which are usually for a week or longer, providing you with the time needed to experience this remarkable ecosystem.

What Are the Kerala Backwaters?

The Kerala backwaters are a chain of brackish lagoons and lakes parallel to the Arabian Sea along the Malabar Coast. They are fed by 38 rivers and cover almost half the length of the state. The ecosystem of the backwaters is a result of the mixing of freshwater and seawater, creating an environment with high biodiversity and natural beauty.

Important Places in the Kerala Backwaters Tour

Alleppey (Alappuzha): Often called the "Venice of the East," Alleppey is the essence of Kerala's backwaters. Cruising along the old-style Kettuvallam (houseboat) is a quintessential experience. The houseboats cruise across calm waters, navigates verdant paddy fields, and waving coconut trees, presenting an equation of comfort and peacefulness.

Kumarakom: Located on the shores of Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom is a scenic backwater spot well-known for its bird sanctuary. Heaven for bird enthusiasts, it's also famous for its luxury resorts and relaxing Ayurvedic spas, and one must include it as a stopover.

Kollam: Kollam is an old port town, which is the southern entrance to the backwaters. A boat trip from Kollam to Alleppey (taking around eight hours) is rated as one of the most scenic and peaceful things you can do in Kerala.

Kuttanad: Dubbed the "Rice Bowl of Kerala," Kuttanad is a place where farming is carried out below sea level—a phenomenon not seen anywhere else in the world. The seemingly endless expanses of emerald-green rice paddies make it a special place for backwater travelers.

Kochi (Cochin): Despite being a cosmopolitan city, Kochi is only a short drive from tranquil backwater hideaways. It provides a combination of cultural attractions, historical sites, and tranquil waterways, so it is a convenient addition to any Kerala itinerary tour.

Top Experiences in the Kerala Backwaters Tour

Houseboat Cruises: No Kerala backwaters tour is complete without a night on a traditional houseboat. With modern comforts, these luxurious floating villas provide an opportunity to enjoy Kerala cuisine, witness breathtaking sunsets, and be one with the waterways.

Canoe Rides: To get closer to local lifestyle, take a canoe ride over slender canals. This in-person experience presents the opportunity to view traditional village occupations and lifestyles.

Bird Watching: The backwaters are nature's paradise for bird watchers. Don't forego the visit to Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary or the picturesque Pathiramanal Island, which are two good places where one can view unusual birdlife.

Ayurvedic Therapy: Most backwater resorts provide genuine Ayurvedic treatments, ideal for regaining your physical and mental strength after a day of sightseeing.
Village Tour: Experience the culture of Kerala with a village tour. Observe traditional coir-making, toddy tapping, and fishing, and learn about the lives of the hospitable locals.

Tea and Spice Plantation Tours: Munnar and Wayanad are renowned for their tea and spice plantations. Go in for a guided tour of the plantations, where you would know the process of cultivation and taste fresh, fragrant tea.

Trekking and Adventure: Kerala provides some of India's most spectacular trekking experiences. Trek across the cloud-shrouded mountains of Wayanad, discover the dense woods of Eravikulam National Park, or hike across the hills of Munnar for panoramas and an experience of a lifetime.

Cultural Performances: Kerala's cultural richesse is showcased through classic dance performances such as Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, and Theyyam. Experience these dynamic art forms at cultural centers throughout the state.

Best Time to Travel Kerala Backwaters

Winter (October-February) is the best season to visit Kerala backwaters since the weather will be pleasant with the perfect ambiance for outdoor adventure. Monsoons (June-September) too have its beauty, but the heavy downpours tend to hamper travel plans from time to time. This is the ideal time for your Kerala backwaters tour package.

Tips for Planning Your Kerala Backwaters Tour

Choose the Right Package: Opt for a Kerala backwaters tour package that combines houseboat experiences with visits to hill stations, beaches, and cultural landmarks.
Decide the Duration: Whether you’re looking for a short 3-4 day getaway or a longer 10-15 day vacation, plan according to your schedule.
Accommodation Options: Kerala offers everything from luxury resorts and heritage hotels to budget homestays and houseboats. Choose what suits your preferences.
Pack Wisely: Light, breathable clothing is a must, as the backwaters can be quite humid. Don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and comfortable footwear.
Pre-book Activities: Secure your wildlife safaris, tea plantation visits, and cultural performances in advance to avoid last

Kerala Backwaters Tour Itinerary with Taj Private Tours

An unforgettable sojourn in God's Own Country – where nature, comfort, and culture come together in perfect harmony.

Day 1: Welcome to Kochi – Gateway to Kerala

Arrive at Kochi, the cosmopolitan port city with its colonial heritage and cultural blend. You will be received at the airport by an Active India Holidays representative and transferred to your hotel.
Optional: In the evening, immerse yourself in Kerala’s ancient performing arts with a live Kathakali dance performance (optional, at your own cost).
Overnight: Comfortable 4-star hotel in Kochi.

Day 2: Explore the Cultural Tapestry of Kochi

Discover Kochi’s rich history on a guided city tour. Visit iconic landmarks like:
Fort Kochi
Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace)
Jewish Synagogue
St. Francis CSI Church
Chinese Fishing Nets
Spice markets & local bazaars
Overnight: Hotel in Kochi.

Day 3: Cruise into Alleppey – The Heart of Backwaters

Travel to Alleppey, lovingly referred to as the "Venice of the East." Board your own private Kettuvallam (traditional houseboat) for a beautiful cruise along the green backwaters.
Savor genuine Kerala cuisine freshly cooked by the in-house chef.
Overnight: Houseboat moored on the serene Vembanad Lake.

Day 4: Drift to Tranquility – Kumarakom

Disembark and proceed to Kumarakom, famous for its peaceful ambience and tropical birdlife.
Visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, spend time at your opulent lakeside resort, and relax surrounded by nature.
Overnight: Kumarakom Resort.

Day 5: Transfer to Marari – A Beachside Bliss

Transfer to Marari Beach, one of Kerala's best-kept secrets, famous for its virgin sandy beaches and tranquil atmosphere.
End your evening watching the magic sunset over the Arabian Sea.
Overnight: Marari seaside hotel.

Day 6: Leisure at Marari – Relax or Explore

Take a day off at your own leisure:
Soak the sun on the beach
Treat yourself to a relaxing Ayurvedic massage
Venture into the fishing villages nearby for a real local experience
Overnight: Hotel in Marari.

Day 7: Departure from Kochi – Memories to Cherish

Your magical trip concludes today. After breakfast, depart for Cochin International Airport for your next flight, filled with memories of backwater indulgence and the warm hospitality of Kerala.

What Your Kerala Backwaters Tour Package Entails

6 nights' stay at 4-star hotels or equivalent
1-night unique houseboat experience in Alleppey with full meals
Daily buffet breakfast and meal onboard the houseboat
All local transfers and sightseeing by private air-conditioned vehicle
Experienced chauffeur and local English-speaking guides
24/7 customer care and support during the tour
Government taxes applicable

What's Not Included

Flying in/out internationally/domestically
Meals other than those listed above
Monument and national park entrance fees
Personal spending (laundry, tips, drinks, etc.)
Travel insurance, visa fees, and seasonal surcharges

Why Choose a Kerala Backwaters Tour with Taj Private Tours?

Whatever you do here—whether it's floating past coconut groves, visiting ancient temples, or basking in holistic Ayurvedic therapies—this tour is not simply sightseeing. It's a spiritual journey into India's green core.

Want to explore the backwaters like never before?

Book your ultimate retreat with Taj Private Tours and experience a perfect combination of luxury, nature, and cultural heritage in the magical state of Kerala.