5 Hidden Backwater Destinations to Explore in Kerala

Often called God’s own country, Kerala boasts stunning hill stations, enchanting backwaters, cascading waterfalls, sandy beaches, and a rich variety of wildlife. It has been acknowledged for a long time as one of India’s top honeymoon spots. The exquisite Kerala Backwaters feature tranquil stretches of lakes, canals, and lagoons that run alongside the Arabian Sea coast. Alappuzha, Kumarakom, Kochi, and Kollam are renowned for their iconic houseboat cruises through the peaceful backwaters of Kerala. Unfortunately, these waterways have become congested, diminishing their appeal for many visitors. For those in search of a backwater experience away from the throngs of tourists, Kerala also presents some breathtaking, lesser-known backwater sites that offer greater tranquility and can serve as an ideal option for rejuvenating your senses as part of the Kerala tour packages. Here are five offbeat backwater destinations to consider for your next trip.

 

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Trawell.in listed 5 unexplored backwater destinations in Kerala here.

Vaikom Backwaters

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Nestled beside the captivating Vembanad Lake, Vaikom stands as one of the oldest townships in Kerala, featuring numerous stunning tourist attractions that remain largely unspoiled by modern influences. The area boasts an extensive network of rivers and canals that flow into the vast waters of Vembanad Lake. Regarded as a gateway to the backwaters of Kerala, Vaikom is a lesser-known destination for those wishing to explore the enchanting backwaters of the region and ranks among the top places to visit near Kochi. A popular activity for visitors is the houseboat journey through the Vaikom backwaters. The houseboat cruise along the narrow canals is picturesque, tranquil, and less crowded with tourists. Typically, backwater excursions commence from the Vaikom Boat Jetty and KTDC Jetty. Additionally, Vaikom is renowned for the ancient Mahadeva Temple, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to have been constructed by Parasurama. This Shiva temple is one of the prominent pilgrimage sites in Kerala, drawing numerous visitors with its spiritual allure as part of the Kumarakom tour packages.

                             Book Here: Kumarakom Packages from Kochi

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Poovar Backwaters

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Poovar is a gorgeous island paradise situated near Kovalam, one of the famous places to visit near Kochi. With unexplored beaches, scenic backwaters, long expanses of glowing sand, and swaying coconut palms, Poovar is a beautiful backwater destination in Kerala but not many people are aware of this little paradise. Located at the entrance of the Neyyar River, Poovar is a rare location in Kerala by the most tranquil backwaters and opens out to the Arabian Sea and a dream golden sand beach.

The Poovar Island is surrounded by small canals and Neyyar River. While cruising through the Poovar backwaters one can easily spot water birds like Kingfisher, Brahminy Kite, Night Heron, Sea Egret, Black Darter, Indian Cormorant eagle and many more. Apart from the backwaters, Poovar is widely identified for its lovely beach which is an ideal destination for relaxing. Poovar Beach is situated at a short distance from Kovalam Beach separating the River Neyyar from the Arabian Sea and is quite breathtaking. Explore Kovalam tour packages offered by Trawell.in.

Book Here: Kerala Honeymoon Packages

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Most Popular Kerala Backwater Tours

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Kavvayi Backwaters at Payyanur

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Kavvayi Backwaters at Payyanur are formed by the cluster of islands on River Kavvayi in Kerala. Stretches from Kavvayi to Neeleshwar, this lesser-known fascinating backwater destination is the third largest backwaters in Kerala and the largest one in the whole North Kerala region. This is dotted with several small and large islands with eye-catching surroundings perfect to enjoy the beauty of backwaters during the Kerala Tour. Of these, Valiyaparamba Island is the largest one. These backwaters are fed by four rivers.

Like Alleppey, Kollam & Kumarakom, Kavvayi also has its own charm that can literally make you fall in love with the place. No Cruises are available here but visitors can relax by taking a quiet walk along the stunning backwaters or stepping in one of the country boats and exploring the vast diversity of scenery around. An expedition on the boat, from Kotti to Kottapuram is just incredible. The backwater and the wetlands are home to a variety of fauna and flora. One can also attend the theyyams and temple festivals in Payyanur.

                                 Book Here : Kannur Tour Packages

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Thiruvallam Backwaters

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Situated near Thiruvanthapuram, the Thiruvallam backwaters is the most stunning backwater destination in Kerala. Karamana and Killi are the two rivers that merge at Thiruvallam, which leads to the formation of these backwaters. En route to Kovalam, this scenic backwater stretch of Thiruvallam is famous for its canoe rides. These backwaters are blessed with lush vegetation, water birds and scenic beauty. The short village cruises using country boats are perfectly pleasant ways to enjoy the backwaters of Thiruvallam as part of Trivandrum tour packages.

The cruise route passes through several fishing villages where one can notice local traditions and old practices. There is also a temple dedicated to Parashurama, the legendary founder of Kerala, at Thiruvallam. Another famous backwater area at Thiruvallam is “Veli Tourist Village” which is encircled by Veli Lagoon and the Arabian Sea divided by a thin sand bar. It is an 18-acre waterfront park with a climbing bridge and it offers various water sport facilities.

                         Must Visit : Tourist Places near Trivandrum

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Padanna Backwaters, Kasaragod

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Located in Kasaragod district, Padanna Backwaters is the most serene backwaters in Kerala as coconut trees and palm trees cover this place beautifully. Far from the tourist hubs, Padanna offers secluded backwater facilities and is a perfect place for peaceful boat rides. The backwaters of Padanna are sourced by five big rivers that later flow into the Arabian Sea. The old rustic charm of the rural areas of Padanna is still evident in the backwaters today. This is the hub of oyster farming which provides income to thousands of people today. A trip on the houseboat, feeling the sun and the sand on the Valiyaparamba Beach and estuary, or opt for rejuvenation therapy by traditional practitioners of Ayurveda are some of the activities that can be enjoyed here. This backwater haven is not ruined by tourist influx and the local folk offer a stay experience, which is outstanding. Bekal Fort and Kareem’s Forest, a manmade forest owned by a nature enthusiast are the must-visit tourist places in Kasaragod. The moonlit houseboat cruises along the backwaters is also highly recommended.

                              Must Visit : Tourist Places near Mangalore

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