Kerala's backwaters is the most popular tourist attraction of Kerala.
The total expanse of backwater stretches over 1500kms, with a network of
44 rivers, lagoons
and lakes from north to south. Alleppey which forms
the main part of this network has the peculiar geographical feature of
having the water in level with the land. This gives the advantage of
getting a closer look at the village life on shore while on a backwater
ride. The intricate network of canals through this town has earned it
the sobriquet "The Venice of the East".
The most interesting area in the backwaters is the Kuttanad region,
called the rice bowl of Kerala. The area is probably the only place in
the continent where farming is done below sea level, using a system of
dykes and bunds.
The largest backwater stretch is the Vembanad Lake, which opens out into
the sea at the Kochi port and flows through three districts - Alappuzha,
Kottayam and Kochi. The Ashtamudi Lake has eight 'arms' covering a major
portion of Kollam district in the south, and is the second largest lake
in the state.
You are greeted on
arrival at the Cochin International Airport/Railway
Station and transfer to your hotel. Afternoon sight
seeing by boat visiting, Jewish Synagogue, Dutch
Palace, St.Francis Church, Chinese fishing nets and
Bolgatty Palace. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day - 02
Cochin-Kumarakom (125 Kms - 4 Hrs)
Early morning, depart
for Kumarakam, arrival at noon time. Check into your
hotel. Afternoon, visit to neighbouring places.
Overnight at Hotel. Kumarakam is a unique backwater
destination situated on the banks of Vembanad lake.
Kumarakam bird sanctuary is a favourite haunt of
migratory birds from across the world which makes it
a renowned bird watching centre. It is also a centre
for houseboat cruises. Overnight at Hotel.
Day - 03
Kumarakom
Day free at Kumarakom.
Optionally enjoy a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage in
the Ayurvedic centre. Overnight at Hotel.
Day - 04
Alleppey
Overnight at Houseboat.
(Traditional Kerala food will be served). The
houseboats are giant country Crafts, generally about
67 feet in length and has a width of around 13 feet
in the middle. It took great skill and
meticulousness to construct these giants by tying
huge planks of jack wood together, without the use
of a single nail. Today these are the most exciting
tourism product in India, which usually has one or
two bath rooms, an open lounge, deck, kitchenette
and a crew comprising oarsmen, a cook and guide.
Day - 05
Alleppey - Cochin
After
breakfast, Drive to Cochin. Drop at Airport/Railway station to your destination.
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and lakes from north to south. Alleppey which forms
the main part of this network has the peculiar geographical feature of
having the water in level with the land. This gives the advantage of
getting a closer look at the village life on shore while on a backwater
ride. The intricate network of canals through this town has earned it
the sobriquet "The Venice of the East". 
