The Backwaters: Discover the Beauty of Kerala
When you visit Kerala, you go to The Backwaters! The Backwaters, also known as the “Venice of the East,” consists of a network of lagoons, rivers, canals, and lakes that stretch over an area of about 900 km². A maze of water where countless people live, work and exist. Going to church, doing some shopping, or visiting a friend in Kerala, you don’t take the car but the boat.
Not only a unique place to experience, but also incredibly beautiful. The Backwaters have something serene, almost magical. You can choose for a luxury multi-day trip over the water or explore part of the environment with a day trip.
Day Trip Versus Overnight Stay on the Water
A day trip is cheaper and more flexible, but you have less time to really discover The Backwaters. You can only explore a small part of the Backwaters, but because the boats are often a bit smaller, you can easily enter the smaller waters.
Staying overnight in a boathouse is more expensive, but you have more time to relax and enjoy the surroundings. You can see more of the surroundings and also have more time to get to know the local culture better. A disadvantage is that you can’t go into the small waters with a big boat, which is quite special.
So, if you have limited time and only want to catch a glimpse of the Backwaters, a day trip is ideal. But if you have more time and want to enjoy a unique experience and discover local life, opt for an overnight stay in a boathouse.
Advantages of a Day Trip:
- Lower costs.
- More flexibility.
- You get to places where the “houseboats” often can’t come.
- Ideal for travelers with little time.
- Possibility to combine other activities.
Disadvantages of a Day Trip:
- Only a small part of the Backwaters can be explored.
- Of course, it’s a less unique experience.
Advantages of Staying Overnight in a Boathouse:
- A unique and special experience.
- More time to enjoy the surroundings.
- Explore more of the surroundings.
- Possibility to discover local culture.
Disadvantages of Staying Overnight in a Boathouse:
- Higher costs.
- Less flexibility.
- Less comfortable than a hotel.
- Challenge for people who are sensitive to motion sickness.
How Much Does an Overnight Stay in a Boathouse Cost
Let’s talk money, honey! So, how much does an overnight stay in a boathouse in The Backwaters of Kerala cost? Well, it depends on your budget and the luxury you want to experience. You can choose from different types of boathouses, ranging from simple to super luxurious.
A simple boathouse will cost you about € 60 to € 80 per night. But if you want to get the most out of your Backwaters experience and are looking for luxury, the prices can go up to € 500 per night.
How Much Time Do You Need to Discover The Backwaters
The time you need to explore The Backwaters depends of course on your travel plans and what you exactly expect from The Backwaters. We eventually did a day trip (I, Desi, am not so brave on the water) and found this more than enough. In 4 – 8 hours you see a lot of the surroundings, and if you don’t choose for a boathouse, a day trip is still a big highlight of your trip.
It is possible to make a stop along the way at The Backwaters and continue after the boat trip, but it is of course more relaxed to stay the night and leave early the next morning.
In short, the amount of time you need to discover The Backwaters in Kerala depends on your preferences and travel plans.
Why The Backwaters of Kerala Should Be on Your Bucket List
- Beautiful nature and a unique experience.
- Unique culture and traditions of the local population that has lived along the waterfront for centuries.
- Responsible tourism through the support of the local community and the protection of the environment.
- Quiet and serene environment to relax and escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Where is the Best Place to Visit The Backwaters
You can visit The Backwaters from various places. A popular place to stay or start is Alleppey. Here many cruises start and you find countless hotels and homestays. It’s a good starting point because you quickly get to the most beautiful part of The Backwaters.
Other popular places to visit are Kumarakom, Kollam and Kasaragod. If you find Alleppey too busy, then Kuttanad is a good choice for you. This region is quieter and is known for its beautiful rice fields and unique way of living in a water-rich area.
Best Time to Visit The Backwaters
The best time to visit The Backwaters in Kerala is from October to March. During this period, there is relatively little rainfall and the temperatures are still okay. Although it can get quite warm in March. In the summer (April – June) it is very hot and humid. During the rainy season (July – September), there may be floods and activities may be limited.
