Ashtamudi Lake
While less famous than the Alleppey backwaters, Ashtamudi Lake in Kollam offers a pristine and serene experience for those seeking peace and solitude. The lake is characterized by its eight arms, which stretch out to cover a large area, creating a unique landscape. Houseboat cruises here provide an opportunity to observe the traditional lifestyle of local fishing communities and witness stunning sunsets over the water.
- Best time to visit: November to February
- Activities: Houseboat cruises, fishing, and exploring traditional villages
Munroe Island
Located at the confluence of the Kallada River and Ashtamudi Lake, Munroe Island is a hidden gem that offers an authentic glimpse into Kerala’s backwater culture. The island is home to lush green landscapes, narrow canals, and ancient temples. Visitors can take a canoe tour to explore the winding canals and observe the local way of life, including coir weaving and fishing.
- Best time to visit: October to March
- Activities: Canoe tours, cultural exploration, and bird watching
Kavvayi Backwaters
The Kavvayi Backwaters in northern Kerala, near the town of Payyanur, are one of the state’s best-kept secrets. These backwaters are surrounded by small islands and offer a peaceful escape from the crowds. The area is rich in biodiversity, with a variety of bird species and lush greenery. Kavvayi is also home to traditional fishing villages, where travelers can experience the slow-paced life of Kerala’s coastal communities.
- Best time to visit: October to March
- Activities: Boating, bird watching, and exploring nearby islands
Thiruvallam Backwaters
Located near Trivandrum, the Thiruvallam Backwaters offer an excellent opportunity to experience Kerala’s backwaters without venturing far from the city. The backwaters are calm and serene, with palm-fringed shores and lush landscapes. The area is perfect for a relaxing boat ride, and visitors can also explore the nearby Parashurama Temple, an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
- Best time to visit: November to February
- Activities: Boating, temple visits, and kayaking
Vembanad Lake
Though Vembanad Lake is famous as Kerala’s largest lake, there are lesser-explored sections of it that offer a quieter experience. The lake stretches across several districts, including Kottayam, Alappuzha, and Ernakulam. Visitors can explore the quieter parts of the lake in areas like Kumarakom, where the surrounding backwaters are teeming with wildlife and offer an idyllic setting for a peaceful boat ride.
- Best time to visit: October to March
- Activities: Houseboat cruises, bird watching, and village visits
Padanna Backwaters
Padanna, a small village near the northern border of Kerala, offers an authentic and untouched backwater experience. Known for its mussel farming, the area provides a unique insight into Kerala’s coastal culture. Travelers can visit local mussel farms, take boat rides through the calm waters, and even enjoy a traditional seafood meal prepared by the local community.
- Best time to visit: October to April
- Activities: Mussel farming tours, boating, and cultural immersion
Chandragiri River Backwaters
The Chandragiri River in Kasaragod, northern Kerala, is a hidden paradise for backwater enthusiasts. The river flows through lush landscapes and offers a scenic route for boat rides. Visitors can explore ancient forts, traditional temples, and beautiful beaches nearby. The Chandragiri Fort, perched on a hilltop, provides panoramic views of the river and surrounding landscape.
- Best time to visit: October to March
- Activities: Boating, historical exploration, and sightseeing
Kumarakom Backwaters
While Kumarakom is a well-known backwater destination, its quieter, offbeat sections remain largely untouched by tourism. Visitors can explore the nearby bird sanctuary, where migratory birds like Siberian cranes can be spotted during the season. The village is also home to traditional Kerala architecture and offers opportunities for Ayurvedic treatments.
- Best time to visit: October to February
- Activities: Bird watching, houseboat cruises, and Ayurvedic therapies
Pathiramanal Island
Pathiramanal, meaning “Sands of Midnight,” is a small, uninhabited island located on Vembanad Lake. The island is accessible by boat from Alappuzha or Kumarakom and is surrounded by dense vegetation, creating a haven for bird watchers. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk along the island’s trails and spot a variety of bird species in their natural habitat.
- Best time to visit: November to February
- Activities: Bird watching, nature walks, and photography
Kuttanad Backwaters
- Best time to visit: July to September
- Activities: Trekking, photography, and nature exploration
Why Explore Kerala’s Backwaters with Wanderers?
Ida Khanna is a travel content writer and digital marketing specialist who crafts compelling, SEO-driven stories for brands like MakeMyTrip, Wanderers, and Thrillophilia. She combines storytelling with strategy to create engaging travel content that resonates with audiences and boosts visibility across digital platforms.
