10 Most Offbeat Kerala Backwaters You Should Explore

Have you ever dreamt of gliding through the calm waters where time seems to stand still. Offbeat Kerala backwaters have always been a dream destination for travellers. It is not limited to only the popular names. Beyond the picture-perfect postcards lie quiet canals with glassy water and calm surroundings. Tourists get to experience offbeat Kerala backwaters, untouched villages, and authentic local culture. 

Kerala backwater destinations are among the most peaceful and serene tourist destinations. Though these are less crowded and untouched, the experience here is unparalleled.

• Get to know the authentic village life of the backwaters 
•  close, since these areas are less crowded.
• You have the opportunity to support the local communities in the untouched areas of Kerala. Additionally, you can also support eco-tourism by opting for homestays.
• The places have fewer houseboats but offer a richer experience than crowded tourist spots.
• The places have fewer houseboats but give a richer experience compared to crowded tourist places

If you are ready to explore peaceful alternatives to crowded tourist destinations, which gives you a chance to connect with nature, the offbeat Kerala backwaters are a great choice.

Table Of Content

1. Valiyaparamba backwaters, Kasaragod

Located in Kasaragod, the northernmost district of Kerala, the Valiyaparamba backwater is the most enchanting and vivacious backwaters in Kerala. Formed by four rivers, and dotted by a little island, Valiyaparamba is set just 30 kms away from Bakel. You can enjoy ferry rides and a trip to the Bekal fort when here. The Pallikere and the Kappil beach make for a great weekend escape for perfect rejuvenation. Those seeking adventure can join the Mangrove Trail of Malabar that includes hiking, bird watching and boating.

How to Reach:

• Nearest railway station is the Payyanur railway station
• Nearest airport is the Calicut International Airport

Things to Do:

• Visit the Bekal Fort
• Join the Mangrove Trail of Malabar
• Go boating, bird watching, hiking

Suggested Read: The Ultimate Guide to Top Tourist Places in Kerala

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2. Kavvayi Backwater at Payyanur

Kavvayi Backwaters at Payyanur is the largest backwaters found in northern part of Kerala. You’ll find exquisite houseboats around, giving you an opportunity to hop on with your loved ones and explore the vast diversity of scenery around. If in the mood for some cultural exploration, you can attend the theyyams and temple festivals, a regular in Payyanur. You can also visit the Edayilakadu Island where you can find a forest dedicated to worship holy snakes – something which happens only in Kerala!

How to Reach:

• Nearest railway station is the Payyanur railway station
• Nearest airport is the Calicut International Airport

Things to Do:

• Attend the theyyams and temple festivals
• Visit the holy snakes forest in Edayilakadu Island

3. Marine Drive, Kochi

The Marine Drive in Kochi is the perfect example illustrating the exquisite nightlights of the city against the backdrop of the cool breeze arising from the backwaters. You can spend some quality time here while watching the sunset or laze around the Marine walkaway, enjoying the evenings at Marrybrown, DiMark and Coffee Bar or can shop at the GCDA Shopping Complex. Other attractions include the rainbow bridge and the China Net Bridge that is a must visit for all the tourists.

How to Reach:

• Nearest railway station is Ernakulam railway station
• Nearest airport is Cochin International Airport

Things to Do:

• Shop till you drop at GCDA Shopping Complex
• See the Rainbow bridge & China Net Bridge
• Eat your heart out at Marrybrown, DiMark

4. Padanna Backwaters, Kasaragod

Located in the northernmost district of Kerala, Padanna Backwaters is the most serene backwaters offering a visit to the Padanna village. This first of its kind theme village in Kerala is the center of oyster harvesting, which also happens to be a predominant occupation here. Besides relishing the backwaters on houseboats, tourists can also engage in mussel farming, which is a highlight of this place, and taste the cuisine prepared utilizing the locally harvested mussels. You should also visit the Kareem’s forest, a manmade forest spread across 32 acres, housing variety of plantations including coconut, arecanut, spices and cashew. The moonlit houseboat cruises are also highly recommended if you are visiting the Padanna Backwaters.

How to Reach:

• Nearest railway station is Kanhangad
• Nearest airport is the Calicut International Airport

Things to Do:

• Learn mussel farming
• Visit Kareem’s Forest
• Go on moonlit houseboat cruises

5. Thiruvallam Backwaters in Thiruvananthapuram

If you swear by canoeing, kayaking and such water adventures then Thiruvallam backwaters is the place to be. You can enjoy your ride on kettuvaloms through this exotic backwater, starting from Thiruvananthapuram up till Kovalam. Besides water sports, floating bridges and short village cruises are some other must-experience indulgences here. If your itinerary allows, do visit the Parashuram Temple where locals worship the mythological creator of Kerala, Parashuram. You can also spend a day or two at the nearby coir manufacturing industries to learn about the beautiful craft of building houseboats.

How to Reach:

• Nearest Railway station is Thiruvananthapuram
• Nearest airport is Trivandrum International airport

Things to Do:

• Canoeing & Kayaking
• Ride on Kettuvaloms
• Visit village cruises and floating bridges
• Learn the craft of building houseboats

Must Read: The Ultimate Kerala Honeymoon Bucket List

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Planning your holiday in Kerala but confused about what to do? These Kerala travel stories help you find your best trip ever!

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6. Ashtamudi Backwaters, Kollam

The Ashtamudi backwaters are composed of 8 channels, forming the second largemust backwaters in Kerala. This 16 km long lake provides an excellent network to all the prominent backwaters in Kerala. The lineage of high-end resorts around this place add to the richness of this backwater. Some great staying options include Palm Lagoon Backwater Resort and Aquaserene Backwater Resort. You may also like to spend a day or two on the floating huts or on the houseboats mesmerizing in the beauty of the coconut trees lining this natural heritage.

How to Reach:

• Nearest railway station is Kollam Junction
• Nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport

Things to Do:

• Stay in Floating Huts
• Enjoy at Luxury Resorts like Palm Lagoon Band Aquaserene Backwater Resort
• Enjoy the natural heritage

Must Read: 16 Resorts In Kerala Where You Will Yearn To Be With Your Sweetheart

7. Alumkadavu, Kollam

Alumkadavu is the birthplace for the famous houseboats found all around the Kerala backwaters. The kettuvaloms are modified in order to give rise to the magnificent houseboats that catch fancy of everyone visiting Kerala. These houseboats are created by some of the finest and highly skilled craftsman with ecofriendly materials, which further exemplify the natural essence of Kerala. These backwaters the hub for coir producing industries, which gives you the chance of visiting one of the nearby coir producing industries and learn the magic of coir production. You may also want to try some nearby attractions regularly frequented by tourists. This list of most visited places and must-do activities in Kerala gets you sorted.

How to Reach:

• Nearest railway station is Karunagappally railway station
• Nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport

Things to Do:

• Learn how to make houseboats
• Visit Coir Producing Industries

8. Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom

Vembanad Lake is a perfect spot for picnics, fishing, boating and sightseeing. This lake has gained tremendous attention from the tourists for its rich scenic beauty. The Kumarakom Tourist village in the vicinity offers attractive package tours and houseboats – one thing you must try if you are travelling on budget. During the Onam season, you’ll get to witness the historic snake boat races here, with at least a hundred men rowing a single boat and rushing their way through these calm backwaters. For those looking to spend an afternoon appreciating mother nature, Kumarakom bird sanctuary is another major tourist attraction, located very close by.

How to Reach:

• Nearest railway station is Kottayam
• Nearest airport is Cochin International Airport

Things to Do:

• Witness the snake boat race during Onam
• Spend an afternoon at Kumarakom bird sanctuary

Must Read: 37 Amazing Things To Do In Kerala For An Incredible Holiday

9. Sasthamkotta Backwaters: The Queen of Lakes, Kollam

Sasthamkotta, known as the Queen of lakes, is the largest lake in the state of Kerala surrounded by hills on three sides. This lake holds great religious importance. The famous Sastha temple dedicated to Lord Ganesh and Lord Ayyapa is a place of worship visited by many tourists in order to offer their adoration to the Gods. Feeding fruits and nuts to the monkeys at the Sastha temple is considered a holy ritual. This place offers great options for boating and fishing if you want to try something not-so-religious.

How to Reach:

• Nearest railway station is Kollam
• Nearest airport is Trivandrum International Airport

Things to Do:

• Visit the Sastha Temple to Worship Lord Ganesh
• Feed fruits and nuts to Monkeys
• Go boating and fishing

10. Pathiramanal Backwaters

Pathiramanal is a temporary residence to hundreds of birds migrating from different parts of the world. Here you can indulge in hours of bird watching with the backdrop of the vivacious backwaters, further adding charm to the natural beauty. One can observe Pintail Ducks, Common Teal, Night Heron, Cormorant, Darter, Indian Shag, Purple Heron, gulls, terns, and large egrets to name a few species. Pathiramanal extends from the Alappuzha to Kochi and the Kayamkulam Lake, making it accessible only through the waterways. You can also visit the Krishnapuram Palace to enjoy the opulence of the rulers who have ruled Kerala. Besides, you can also enjoy walks on the Alappuzha beach relaxing under the mystifying effect of some cool breeze.

How to Reach:

• Nearest airport is Cochin International Airport

Things to Do:

• Indulge in bird watching
• Visit the Krishnapuram Palace
• Enjoy walks on the Alappuzha beach

Astonishing! Have you been to these, or any other, Kerala backwaters? Was your experience as mesmerizing as the place itself? Please let us know of some of your fondest Kerala memories in the comments section below.

Authentic Experiences You Can Only Have on Offbeat Backwaters

The backwaters of Kerala are popular for offering unique experiences thanks to their traditional setup, authentic village life, local festivals, and more. 

• Fishing around in the backwaters of Kerala is quite fun. You can also try your hand with locals’ help. 
• You may find floating toddy shops in the backwaters. They look really aesthetic and unique. Make sure to eat at the floating shops if you see them around.
• Coconut leaf weaving and coir rope making are popular local activities in offbeat Kerala backwaters. You may also join locals to learn how they make
• Locals have several festivals throughout the year. Popular ones are Mannancherry Temple Fest, Kaippuzha Poora, etc. These are not touristy; they are authentic local festivals.
• Add more fun to your trip by roaming around on a canoe or motorboat, along with a village guide.

Best Way to Explore Offbeat Backwaters

Have you planned how you will enjoy Kerala’s backwaters? Or are you confused between canoes and kayaks, homestays or hotels? Let’s help you out:

Houseboats, Canoes, or Kayaks

The table below mentions the ideal places for houseboats, kayaks, and canoes. 

Homestays or Hotels

Choose homestays or hotels based on your interests and availability.

How Many Days?

Two types of itineraries can be suggested for your trip to the backwaters of Kerala:

Offbeat vs Popular Kerala Backwaters – Comparison Table

What do the offbeat backwaters of Kerala offer in comparison to the popular Kerala backwaters? Less crowd, slow travel, authentic village life, etc., are a few to mention. 

Travel Tips For Offbeat Kerala Backwaters

With a bit of planning beforehand, you can make your trip to the offbeat backwaters in Kerala more memorable. We have discussed some of the pro tips below:

• Best Months to Visit

If you are planning a trip at the last minute, any month can work. However, if you have time to prepare, October to March is the most suitable time to visit Kerala’s backwaters, as the weather is pleasant.

• Carry Enough Cash 

When travelling to offbeat places like backwaters, it is advisable to carry enough cash, as many regions may have limited ATM access. Internet connectivity may also be disrupted, so online payments may not always be reliable.

• Language Concerns

Offbeat places in Kerala are predominantly Malayalam-speaking. Knowing even basic Malayalam phrases can help communicate while travelling. You may also take help from a guide.

• Connect With Nature

Travel experiences cannot be replaced with anything else. So, it is best to enjoy the surroundings and connect with nature while you are there. Forget the internet, Wi-Fi, and mobile phones, just want what’s there around.

Sustainable & Responsible Travel Tips

Walking in a calm, natural setting is what most people miss around their homes. That’s what the backwaters of Kerala have to offer. As travellers, it is our duty to practice sustainable, responsible travel.

• Choose Eco-certified Stays 

Eco-certified stays not only add to sustainable travel but also give locals a chance to participate in tourism. Along with these, you can also experience authentic local life in Kerala’s offbeat places.

• Avoid Plastic Bottles 

The ill effects of plastic on nature are no longer hidden. So, using plastic bottles is highly discouraged. It is advised to carry your own sustainable bottles. It also reflects a sense of responsibility from your personality.

• Tip Locals 

Locals in Kerala backwater resorts are pretty helpful and compassionate. Tourism is a part of their sustainability. You should tip them fairly for their guidance and cooking. It makes them feel valued and encourages them to continue working.

• Cultural Sensitivity

Respecting local culture is highly recommended, as it’s what makes the backwaters of Kerala unique. So, it is advised to be a little cautious and sensitive towards local culture.

Why Plan Your Trip With TravelTriangle?

Travel Triangle can be your one-stop solution for Kerala tour packages. All you have to do is plan your trip, pack your bag, and let us handle the arrangements. Connect with us because:

• We offer tailored itineraries for offbeat backwaters in Kerala. So, you don’t have to settle for a pre-planned trip, but create your own unique package
• We ensure only authentic guides and perfect homestays for you. Guides are all certified and extremely helpful
• Whether you are a solo traveller, planning a trip with your spouse or your entire family, we have curated packages for everyone. You are free to create and customise your own packages on Travel Triangle. 

Conclusion

Looking for something beyond Kerala’s scenic beauty? That’s what offbeat Kerala backwaters promise. The simple, sober village life, local traditions, and the calm around them are what Kerala’s offbeat backwaters offer. Experience the lesser-known areas and stories in these places. You may create your own itinerary, or let us at Travel Triangle do the needful for you. Explore our range of Kerala tour packages to get your customised package today.

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FAQs About Kerala Backwaters

What is Kerala’s famous food?

Kerala’s famous food features a variety of seafood like fish, prawns, lobsters, mussels, and crabs as it is situated long coastline. You can also find a rich indulgence of coconut and spices, again natural produce of the area.

Are backwaters salty?

Yes. Since backwater mixes with several kinds of water sources including the sea, the water is slightly salty.

Which is the best backwaters in Kerala?

Kollam, which is one of the oldest ports of the Malabar Coast is considered to be one of the fines in Kerela.

When should I visit Kerala backwaters?

In order to avoid the hot summers of Kerela, the best time to visit would be between August and January when the temperature is quite comfortable for you to explore the outdoor tourist attractions conveniently.

Are there crocodiles in Kerala backwaters?

You won’t find any crocodiles in Kerela backwaters as they are composed of lagoons, lakes canals, rivulets, lagoons and salty seawater which is not a suitable habitat for crocodiles. However, you can find certain species of fishes and other saltwater creatures.

Which place in Kerala is famous for backwater?

One of the most popular places of Kerela is Kasargod which in north and is one of the most beautiful and popular backwater destinations, known for rice cultivation, coir processing, and lovely landscape. What makes it even more attractive is that it has the sea to the west and the Western Ghats to the north and east.

Can you swim in Kerala backwaters?

The backwaters are not very suitable for a swim as the waters are a bit polluted.

Which tree is found in Kerala backwaters?

Palm trees, pandanus shrubs, various leafy plants, and bushes are the usual vegetation found near the backwaters of Kerela.

Which is the most peaceful backwater destination in Kerala?

Kavvayi Backwaters near Payyanur are one of the most peaceful backwaters in Kerala. The place is less crowded and has small islands.

Are houseboats available in offbeat backwater regions?

Yes, you can find houseboats in offbeat Kerala backwaters. However, these are limited and mainly operate in Ashtamudi, Poovar, and Kuttanad.

Is it safe for solo travellers or female travellers?

Yes, Kerala's offbeat backwaters are generally safe for solo travellers and females as well. Make sure to choose only government-licensed operators and follow instructions.

What should I pack for a backwater trip?

Some items to include in your bag when planning a backwater trip to Kerala are sunscreen, light cotton clothes, insect repellent, sunglasses, a hat, flip-flops, a camera, a water bottle, and a light shawl or jacket for evenings.

Can I experience backwaters without staying on a houseboat?

Absolutely. Staying on a houseboat is not compulsory for the trip. You may remain at eco-homestays, village retreats, or resorts along the lakeside.

Are offbeat backwaters child-friendly?

Yes, mostly backwaters like in Kumarakom and Ashtamudi are also safe for kids. However, make sure to be around kids to ensure maximum safety.

How many days do I need to explore the hidden backwaters of Kerala?

Three to five days can be enough to explore the hidden backwaters of Kerala, enjoy houseboat cruises, sample local cuisine, and take village walks, etc.

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