» Kerala Backwater
The magnificent backwaters of Kerala may be defined as inland lakes connected
by a network of rivers.The backwaters of kerala cover a distance of 1,900 kilometers.Dotted
by palm trees on the sides, the backwaters were used as trade routes in ancient
times.
Backwater Attractions :
The most attractive of the backwaters is in Kuttanad region where farming
is done below the sea level. This has been made possible with a system of dykes
and bunds.The largest backwater stretch is Vembanad Lake which flows through
the three districts of Alappuzha Kottayam and Kochi. Ashtamudi Lake which
covers
most portions of Kollam district is the second largest backwater lake in the
state. Known as the 'venice of the east', Alappuzha is another major backwater
attraction. With a number of small lakes snaking through the region, small country
boats are used as water taxies here. The boat race of the place attracts tourists
from all over the place. The port city of Kollam situated on the banks of Ashtamudi
Lake is another major backwater attraction. Kumarakoam, a 14 acre bird sanctuary
attracts many different species of migratory birds, as the soothing backwaters
have a magnetic effect upon the birds. Kozhikode as a backwater destination
has a lot to offer to the tourists. However, much of Kozhikode's backwaters
are yet to be properly explored. Alumkadavu, a majestic combination of the sparkling
backwaters and unadulterated nature also pulls many tourists to its fold.
The other beautiful waterbodies in the state are Veli in South Kerala, Kadinamkulam
Edava, Anjengo, Madayara, Peravur, Ashtamudi, Kayamkulam, Kodungalur, Chetuva
and Valiyaparamba which are all in North Kerala.
The Backwater Boat Race :
The most important event here is the boat race christened as Nehru Trophy.
Starting on the most auspicious day of the Tamil festival of Onam, each of the
long boats resembling snakes have 120 competitors giving their best to win top
honours. Tourists from all over the country throng these backwaters to witness
the thrilling boat race.
The Backwater boathousesMost of the backwater hotspots have excellent facilities
in the form of exquisite boathouses. Though a bit costly, a few days stay at
the boathouses provides an experience of a lifetime. The boathouses attract
a large number of foreign tourists too.
One is enthralled by the lush green paddy fields and towering coconut trees
on a boathouse trip in the backwaters.These exquisite boathouses have excellent
roofing, flooring and side walls.The rooms are spacious, attached toilets are
provided, facilities for dining and cooking are also provided. Professional
cooks are engaged to serve the esteemed guest with delicious cuisines - both
local and others. Many different packages are offered to suit the needs of different
tourists.
Being the mainstay of Kerala's tourism, all the backwater hotspots have well
developed transportation infrastructure. Moreover, there are accommodation facilities
to suit all class groups.
