Kerala backwaters Trips & Tours

If you’ve heard of anywhere in Kerala, it’s probably the backwaters, a labyrinthine network of lakes, lagoons and canals that link quaint villages and paddy fields in the central part of the state. A one- or two-day cruise along the hyacinth-studded waters is almost a rite of passage when visiting and floating along in an antique barge is the perfect antidote to our frantic, modern world. It’s not all gliding, contemplating and relaxing, however, (although that is part of the fun) and there’s plenty of scope to moor up and explore hidden Vishnu temples, take tea on the banks, and feast on fragrant local curries. Popular sailing routes include beginning at Alleppey and sailing to Quilon or Kottalam and cruising around the whispering, palm-lined shores of Lake Vembanad – simply add a gentle breeze, a good book and a glass of something cold and you might never want to leave…