Kerala's backwaters is the most popular tourist attraction of Kerala. The total expanse of backwater stretches over 1500kms, with a network of 44 rivers, lagoons and lakes from north to south. Alleppey which forms the main part of this network has the peculiar geographical feature of having the water in level with the land. This gives the advantage of getting a closer look at the village life on shore while on a backwater ride. The intricate network of canals through this town has earned it the sobriquet "The Venice of the East".

According to one of the popular legends, the warrior sage Parashurama reclaimed the land of Kerala from sea with the power of his characteristic battle-axe. A land of canals and lagoons, lakes and rivers, which Kerala backwaters have now become a part of the lives of its people and a kaleidoscope for the visitors to see the rural and real life in the heart of Kerala. The tough and labor-intensive jobs of boat building, prawn cultivation and coir manufacture are a part of the daily livelihood of Keralites. Alapuzha is often the starting-point of the boat cruise through these backwaters as one reaches the land of Kuttanad, also known as the rice bowl of Kerala because of its paddy fields. Kumarakom has a spectacular lagoon to behold and coconut trees have become icons of Kerala tourism industry.

Kumarakom
An unbelievably beautiful paradise of mangrove forests, emerald green paddy fields and coconut groves interspersed with enchanting waterways and canals adorned with white lilies. Situated on the Vembanad Lake, in this small water world you'll come across plenty of traditional country crafts, boats and canoes which will take you into the heart of the scenic lake. The resorts nearby offer comfortable accomodation and exclusive leisure options like an Ayurvedic massage, yoga, meditation, boating, fishing, angling and swimming.

Vembanattu Backwaters
(16 km from Kottayam town): Kottayam is a vast network of rivers and canals which empty into the great expanse of water called the Vembanad Lake. The lake, an enchanting picnic spot and a fast developing backwater tourism destination, provides boating, fishing and sightseeing experiences that are truly exhilarating. The Kumarakom Tourist Village offers houseboat cruises and holiday packages. The serene lake comes alive during Onam with a spectacular water regatta - the snake boat races. It is indeed amazing to watch oarsmen, at least a hundred in one boat, slice their way through the waters to the fast rhythm of their own full throated singing.