• Alleppey (Alappuzha) – The Heart of Kerala Backwaters

Alleppey, or Alappuzha, is often called the “Venice of the East” and is the ideal starting point for backwater tourism. Known for its houseboats and riverfront homestays, Alleppey is famous for its relaxing backwater retreats where you can experience Kerala’s stunning landscapes and village life.

Top Picks : Stay in eco-friendly homestays on the banks of Vembanad Lake or choose a traditional houseboat for a floating homestay experience.

 

• Kumarakom – Land of Ornithological Treasures

Perched on the banks of the Vembanad Lake is Kumarakom, Calm and eyes resting hinterland that is secluded and nurtures the fine traditions of Kerala through backwater homestays. It’s ideal for nature enthusiasts seeking seclusion with its verdant landscape, lovely houseboats, and a refuge for birds.

Top Picks: Choose quiet places of stay close to the bird sanctuary or the lake where you can see migratory birds up close.

 

• Kollam (Quilon) – The Confluence of Rivers and the Ocean

Among the best backwaters of Kerala, Kollam boasts of a wonderful combination of a beach as well as a backwater experience. This region is the most renowned among cultural travelers looking for heritage home stays or riverside cottages for relaxing holidays.

Top Picks : After a day of sightseeing tours, indulge in the architectural splendor of comfortable river view homestays adorned by local artworks.

 

• Thiruvallam – Peace and Serenity while Staying Close to Thiruvananthapuram 

Thiruvallam, near Thiruvananthapuram is still not overly popular or overcrowded which is great as this backwater region has superb tranquility and relaxation opportunities. It’s also close to Kovalam Beach and therefore both the beach and the backwater homestays are available. 

Places to Visit: First recommend staying in eco-friendly US-style homestays which are surrounded by thick coconut groves or alternatively try a Kerala style homestay which overlooks the beautiful Thiruvallam backwaters.

 

• Kuttanad – The famous Rice Bowl of Kerala 

Kuttanad is very famous throughout the world for its paddy fields which are lower than sea level and this is another backwater spot which provides a completely different homestay experience. Houseboats as well as homestays over here can witness the true beauty of the agricultural landscapes of the hinterland of Kerala. 

Places to Visit: The guests can select from either the wide ranges of traditional backwater homestays which overlook the rice paddy fields or houseboats that cruise through the beautiful waterways of Kuttanad.

 

• Ashtamudi Lake – One with the nature in Kollam

 

One of the largest backwaters in the state of Kerala, Ashtamudi Lake is popular for its picturesque beauty and the relaxed, slow-paced atmosphere of its homestays. With its extensive backwaters, Ashtamudi is an ideal place for holidaymakers seeking a quieter and more secluded holiday.

Top Picks : Try the backwater retreats along the shores of Ashtamudi lake as they offer yoga, meditation and Ayurveda treatments in the backdrops of nature.

 

• Munroe Island – An Unexplored Nook in the Backwaters

Munroe Island is an unfrequented yet fascinating backwater location. Set at the meeting point of Ashtamudi lake and Kallada river, Munroe island has green and quiet homestays promoting eco-tourism where you can travel via narrow canals to learn about the local people and their way of life as well as relax in a green environment.

Top Picks : Book eco-homestays that promote responsible tourism with emphasis on fishing, coir, village excursions.

 

• Thazhathangadi: Popularly Called A Heritage Village in Kottayam

In the vicinity of Kottayam, Thazhathangadi is a village that is steeped in history and offers stunning backwaters & traditional accommodations. For those in search of a blend of culture and history in their stay in Kerala, this place is best suited due to its picturesque location and old world charm.

Top Picks: Rent those homestays that are set in customary rambling farmhouses incorporating the traditional style of Kerala giving one history, coziness and nature all at once.

 

• Vypin Island: Safe to say, the backwaters near Cochin

To the north of Kochi, Vypin Island is the most beautiful blends of beaches and backwaters. It is ideal for tourists who want to see the backwaters of Kerala but do not want to go too far from the urban facilities.

Top Picks: Choose homestays or resorts located at river banks which also have beaches so that you can enjoy both the backwaters and the Arabian Sea.

• Poovar Island – The Settlement at the Tip of the River & the Sea

Situated near Thiruvananthapuram which is the capital city of Kerala, Poovar Island is a marvelous place where the Neyyar River meets the Arabian Sea. Known as a paradise, Poovar’s calming backwater homestays provide seclusion that makes it one of the most romantic places in Kerala.

Best Picks : To appreciate the geographical uniqueness of Poovar, take a houseboat or stay in a private river homestay with captivating ocean views.

 

• Conclusion

Cocooned between the backwaters of Kerala are several places of interest, all with their own variant of homestays that bear the essence of the natural splendor and heritage of the land. Opting for soothing backwater getaways, eco-friendly homestays, a delightful house boat and homestay experience with family and friends or otherwise are all possible in the idyllic backwater and houseboat hubs of Kerala. So- have your bags ready to de-stress yourself with these beautiful homestay options in the backwaters of Kerala.