Savour the Serene Enchantment of the Kerala Backwaters

Savour the Serene Enchantment of the Kerala Backwaters

The backwaters of Kerala are one of the most exotically beautiful and coveted contemporary holiday destinations in India. This region in the South Indian province of Kerala is bounded by the majestic Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea. It is the rivers that journey down from these high mountain peaks into the sea that imbue the area with its unique water-logged charm. The backwaters themselves are a labyrinth network of lagoons, lakes and rivers that crisscross this part of Kerala, interspersed with lush vegetation and marshlands. The result is a fertile basin of verdant forests and fields, waterways fringed with palm and carpeted in blooming hyacinth and a wealth of flora and fauna that thrive within its unique eco-systems. Called "God's Own Country" and "Venice of the East", the Kerala backwaters have been ranked as one of the most enchanting places on earth by the National Geographic Traveller. Its people too have a rich history and culture that is bonded seamlessly with the natural patterns of this land that time has seemingly forgotten, adding to its allure. The agricultural impositions of emerald and gold paddy fields, irrigation canals and aromatic spice and rubber plantations contribute to the exciting topography of the region. The livelihoods and industry of the people who depend on these crops and the game-rich waters have created self-contained communities residing in quaint villages. Their simplicity of lifestyle appears to mirror the placid tranquillity of the waters that surround them; however, beneath this veneer is found a culture filled with vigour, energy and piety. Fairs, festivals and high-energy sports abound in these localities; the famous Onam Festival of Kerala is nowhere celebrated with more pomp and pageantry than it is here, with its exciting snake boat races that rev up the competitive spirit of the otherwise laid-back people into a contagious fever pitch. The imprints of their forefathers, long-ago invasions and the evidence of a multitude of faiths can be found within the region's diverse historical sites. Thousand-year-old Hindu shrines and their legends share veneration with mosques and churches that hark back to the first Christian places of worship ever to be constructed in the Orient. The heritage of the region is reflected on more than simply the architecture of the age-old shrines. It also permeates into the living culture and artistry of its present-day people, taking form in the classical South Indian dance style of Kathakali, the intricate handicrafts and weaving industry, the mouth-watering cuisine and other aspects of the native culture. The principle towns and areas that make up the usual backwaters route run from the industrial and commercial capital of Cochin, known for its ancient port, through several other towns and villages. The district of Kasargod with its Chandragiri and Beakal forts, the historical trade hub of Kollam and the "Rice Bowl of Kerala", Allepey, known for its grand temple festivals, are but a few of these localities. Many of these areas intersect the great Vembanad Lake, such as the bird haunt of Kumarakom, the paddy lands of Kuttanad, and the retail centre of Kottayam, with its intriguing Christian historical sites. This treasure-trove of natural beauty, serenity and vibrant cultural heritage can be best observed via a Kerala houseboat tour. The traditional "houseboat" is, as its name suggests, a miniature floating abode which is locally known as "Kettuvalams" and constitutes the trademark tourist experience of the region. Traversing the coconut-shaded waterways in one of these vessels is one of the best ways to take in the full montage of the backwaters' diverse offerings. You can observe the local wildlife and immerse yourself in the rhythms of village life while "going native" in the most exotic way, when you rent one of these vessels for your travel. Many tourists, however, choose to opt for half-day houseboat tours, preferring to enjoy the many comforts of a centralized Kerala resort for the majority of their stay. One of the best-reputed choices in terms of accommodation is The Zuri Kumarakom Kerala Resort & Spa. This Kumarakom resort sits within the Vembanad Lake and offers luxurious lodgings and stellar service.

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