15 Water Sports in Kerala: A Complete Guide For Adventure Seekers

Beyond the backwaters and Ayurvedic retreats, Kerala also offers amazing water sports and adventures. The coastline stretches along the Arabian Sea, and scenic rivers, lakes, and soothing backwaters are all hubs of water sports in Kerala. Be it kayaking, surfing, diving, or parasailing, there’s a lot to experience. 

Kerala’s water sports are also quite exciting, thanks to the surrounding natural beauty. Exploring the marine beauty of Kerala is as simple as one trip. Whether you want to travel alone, as a couple, with friends or with family, the fun is unlimited here. Discover the most exciting water sports activities in Kerala in this guide.

Why Try Water Sports in Kerala?

Water sports in Kerala have been popular for decades now. It is something every traveller and water lover should experience. Some of the many reasons why Kerala water sports can be one of your best choices as a traveller:

Natural Water Bodies: Kerala is full of coastlines, rivers, backwaters, and serene lakes. This abundance of natural water bodies offers a perfect escape to enjoy various water adventures.
Pleasant Climate: Kerala offers pleasant weather for water sports for most of the months. The gentle breeze and comfortable weather further increase the fun and enjoyment.
A myriad of Water Activities: Whether you are looking for a thrilling trip or a peaceful one, Kerala water has it all. From calm kayaking in backwaters to exciting banana boat rides and parasailing to surfing, there’s a lot to explore.
Safety Standards: Water sports in Kerala are taken seriously. The operators are certified instructors, provide safety gear, and follow all standard protocols to ensure tourists’ safety.
Combine with Sightseeing: You may also combine your water activity trip with sightseeing. Most water sports hubs are close to tourist hubs as well. So, you may also visit nearby places to relax and roam

15 Best Water Sports In Kerala

Kerala is all about beauty and thrills and water sports in Kerala are a coming together of fun and adventure. Some of the activities that travelers and adventure enthusiasts are often seen trying out are listed here. Take a quick glance and take your pick!

1. Kayaking & Canoeing

If you want to enjoy the serene backwaters of Kerala, kayaking and canoeing are the best options. It involves paddling small boats through calm waters. Perfect for sightseeing and adventure.

• Where to do it: Backwaters of Ashtamudi, Kumarakom, Munroe Island and Chaliyar River via Jellyfish Watersports
• Best season: October to March
• Expected cost range: ₹500–₹2,000 per session
• Skill level: Beginner-friendly
• Safety tips: Always wear a life vest and follow your instructor

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2. Scuba Diving & Snorkelling

Scuba diving and snorkelling are the best water sports activities if you want to explore the underwater world. You get to experience coral reefs and colourful marine life. For shallow water, snorkelling is the best option, and for scuba diving, you may need basic training.

• Where to do it: Kovalam, Varkala, and nearby beaches
• Best season: October to March
  Expected cost range: ₹3,000–₹8,000 per session
• Skill level: For snorkelling, a beginner level is fine, and for scuba diving, basic training is required
• Safety tips: Dive only with certified instructors

3. Catamaran Sailing / Traditional Boat Rides

Catamaran sailing or traditional boat rides are perfect if you want both adventure and relaxation. In this, you get to sail a multi-hulled boat, a catamaran, or ride a traditional kettuvallam on calm waters while enjoying the scenic beauty.

• Where to do it: Kochi harbour, Vembanad Lake, coastal towns
• Best season: October to March
• Expected cost range: ₹1,000–₹3,500 per hour
• Skill level: Beginner-friendly
• Safety tips: Always wear life jackets and follow the guidance of your instructor

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4. Parasailing, Windsurfing & Water Skiing

In parasailing, you are lifted into the air by a parachute that is attached to a boat. That’s quite an exciting thrill. In Windsurfing, you get to stand on a board with a sail and in water skiing, you can glide on water while your base board is pulled by a boat.

• Where to do it: Kovalam, Varkala
• Best season: October to March
• Expected cost range: ₹2,000–₹5,000 per session
• Skill level: Beginner-friendly
• Safety tips: Use harnesses and helmets, and follow the guidance from the instructor

5. River Rafting & River Crossing

You can ride around on the river streams and small rapids on inflatable rafts. It is a mix of teamwork and thrilling experience. Enjoy the scenic beauty and soothing water sounds.

• Where to do it: Tusharagiri, Iruvanjippuzha, Chalipuzha
• Best season: Post-monsoon (September–December)
• Expected cost range: ₹1,500–₹3,500 per session
• Skill level: Beginner to intermediate
• Safety tips: Always use life vests and helmets, and follow what the instructor says

6. Banana Ride

A famous water sport in Kerala for those wishing to burn some calories and relish through the escapade of this furious water sport. The banana boat ride is adored by all age groups except the 9 years and below ones. In this activity, a boat is pulled at a furious speed by a speedboat and then it bounces oddly off the waves.

Best Time: September to March
Approximate Charges: INR 1000/- per person

7. Knee Boarding

If you are a beginner this might be tough but that is the fun part. Knee boarding is one of the best water sports in Kerala one can try. All you have to do is to sit on a kneeboard and row away to adventure and peace. You can learn how to surfboard sitting on your knees from a professional. The thrills of this sport are unmatched and unprecedented.

Best Time: September to April
Approximate Charges: INR 1800/- per person

8. Bamboo Rafting

Bamboo rafting is another popular water sports activity suitable for all ages. You get to glide slowly along the rivers on a raft made of bamboo. Along with rafting, you can also enjoy the wildlife views and the scenic beauty around. 

• Where to do it: Periyar, forested rivers, wildlife zones
• Best season: October to March
• Expected cost range: ₹500–₹1,500 per hour
• Skill level: Suitable for all ages
• Safety tips: Life jackets are always recommended

9. Sea Surfing

Another one of the interesting water sports in Kerala you can try is sea surfing. Kerala is quite famous for being a beach destination which gives it many opportunities to be host to multiple interesting things one can try, sea surfing being one of them. At most places you will be given a half an hour training about how to surf and then you will be doing it on your own.

Best Time: March to May and October to December
Approximate Charges: INR 1500/- per person

10. Boating

Although one might not essentially consider boating as a ‘water sport’. Nevertheless, it is exciting and a great activity to try. You can boat at the largest earth dam in India which is the Banasura Sagar Dam which is beautifully set against the gorgeous Banasura Hill. If you are looking for water sports in Alleppey, then heading for boat ride is one of the best ones. The destination also offers perfect setting for speed boating.

Best Time: October to March
Approximate Charges: INR 700/- for a boat which can accomodate 4-5 people

11. Jet Skiing, Speed Boating & Wave Running

Jet Skiing lets you ride a motorised water raft over waves at high speed. Enjoy speed boating and cutting through the waves for an unforgettable experience.

• Where to do it: Kovalam, Varkala, selected beaches
• Best season: October to March
• Expected cost range: ₹1,500–₹3,500 per 15–30 minutes
• Skill level: Beginner to intermediate
• Safety tips: Use only certified safety gear from certified operators and start with short rides first.

Traditional / Festival Boat Races (Vallam Kali / Snake Boat Races)

Festival boat races are also organised in Kerala. Locals enjoy the thrill of racing from one stretch to another in decorative boats and immerse themselves in their country’s vibrant culture.

Where to do it: Nehru Trophy Boat Race (Alleppey), Aranmula Vallam Kali
Best season: August–September (festival season)
Expected cost range: Entry/viewing – ₹200–₹500; VIP boat rides extra
Skill level: Spectator-friendly
Safety tips: Arrive early for good spots; follow crowd management rules

Unique & Offbeat Options

Apart from those mentioned above, you can also enjoy local culture and the lesser-known rivers. Your water activities trip may also include sightseeing in nearby areas.

Where to do it: Bull surfing in paddy fields and river kayaking in lesser-known rivers
Best season: October to March
Expected cost range: Varies by activity
Skill level: Beginner to intermediate
Safety tips: Always wear safety gear and follow local operator instructions

Best Locations & Where to Stay

If you are planning a trip to Kerala for water sports activities, do not miss out on checking the top location suggestions in Kerala. We have also added stay recommendations depending on the type of water activity and area.

When to Visit & Seasonal Considerations

Best Months for Sea/Beach Sports

The best months for sea/beach adventure in Kerala are from October to March. You can enjoy surfing, jet skiing, parasailing, etc. The skies are clear, the temperature is gentle, and the seas are calm. So, it is perfect to enjoy the Kerala waters from October to March.

Monsoon Season Cautions

During the monsoon season, which runs from July to September, Kerala experiences heavy rainfall and strong tides. The sea conditions also become quite unpredictable during the monsoon. So, for safety purposes, coastal water sports are put on hold. You may enjoy other aspects of Kerala’s waters during the monsoon, such as lush greenery and Ayurvedic retreats.

River Flow and Safety in Monsoon/Post‑Monsoon

Rivers in Wayanad and Thekkady often rise in level during the monsoon. The water currents are also fast, and the visibility is not that good. So, several water sports activities are paused during these months. Post-monsoon, the activities are resumed.

Safety Tips & What to Pack

When planning a trip to Kerala for water sports, you may need specific items in your backpack. To assist you, here we have listed a few safety tips and things you must pack for your trip:

Life Vests & Certified gear: Make sure to use only equipment from an authorised and certified operator, not from any other. Gears include life vests, helmets, harnesses, etc.

Check Weather Conditions: Every day during the trip, check the weather forecast and sea conditions before heading out. If there is an alarm regarding high tides or heavy rain, it may be better to avoid going out.

Sun Protection: The tropical sun in Kerala can be quite harsh for your skin. So, having a cap or hat with you can be a smart choice. You may also use sunscreen to protect your skin. Wear light, breathable clothing to stay cool.

Waterproof Bags & First Aid: Since water sports areas can get wet, it is best to keep a waterproof bag with you to keep your stuff dry. Essential valuables, electronics, and documents must be carried in waterproof bags. Also, do not forget to carry a small first aid kit in case you feel motion sickness or suffer minor injuries.

Know Your Swim Ability: You must perform water activities according to your swimming abilities. While a guide is always there, it is important to choose according to your capacities, must start with guided lessons.

Insurance & Local Permissions: You may also insure yourself and your partners for a trip with travel insurance that covers water sports. Make sure to follow local rules and obtain any necessary permissions. For instance, kayaking or rafting in sensitive zones may require permission.

Cost Expectations & Booking Tips

Water sports in Kerala are suitable for a range of budgets. You may get low-cost boating to mid-range kayaking. Parasailing or scuba diving can be premium sports with slightly higher budgets. Depending on the local operator and your tour company, the cost may differ.

At Travel Triangle, we offer the most reasonable packages for a Kerala tour. At affordable prices, you can get customised packages that best suit your trip plans.

Water Adventure Packages in Kerala

For a hassle-free experience, you may simply book a water adventure package in Kerala to enjoy uninterrupted. We will take care of your entire trip.

Responsible & Sustainable Practices

Water bodies are an essential part of the environment, and as tourists, it is our responsibility to resort to only sustainable practices. For this, you need to ensure:

No Plastic in Water Bodies: Do not dispose of plastic in water bodies. If you have something to throw away, only throw it into the designated dustbins, which you can easily find around. Cleaning plastics from water bodies is extremely tough, costly, and has a greater impact on them than anything else.

Eco-friendly Operators: Use only eco-friendly operators for assistance. It is an important step towards ensuring the cleanliness and sustainability of water bodies and their surroundings.

Respect for Water Life: Coral reefs and marine life are delicate. As tourists and water lovers, it is important to respect all that you see and feel inside the water bodies.

Follow Local Norms: There may be certain local norms around your destination. Your guide or operator will likely inform you about this. So, it is best to follow these norms for the best experience.

Conclusion

Water sports in Kerala are a perfect vibe for all types of travellers, especially those who love water. Riding waves, walking around the islands, kayaking, scuba diving, parasailing, etc., there’s much more to explore. With Travel Triangle, planning your trip becomes easier. Get your customisable water-adventure package designed specifically for your interests. Book your Kerala tour package today and start planning your next trip.

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Bhavika Bhatia

Bhavika Bhatia is a philosophy major and an in-house content writer at TravelTriangle. She is one audacious personality who loves to discover, travel and create worthy content for her readers. Her expressions are often poetic and are thoroughly processed under ethical lenses. Apart from writing, she is in love with Wabi-Sabis, cheesecake, and anything sweet.