Kerala is a land of copious rainfall. Once the earth is saturated, the overflow runs into canals and streams, the rolling water surging ceaselessly through hills and mountain passes to flow into the forty odd rivers in the state. This labyrinthine network of rivers, canals, streams and lagoons constitute the great backwaters of Kerala. People live all along its banks, cultivating the fertile lands, and sustaining themselves through diverse vocations ranging from fishing, coir making, and toddy tapping to transporting men and goods along this water world.
“ A leisurely boat ride along these unique water ways remains one of the most memorable experiences of a traveller. Offering charm picture-postcard scenes of the interplay between earth and water, a trip to the backwaters of Kerala is a must. Traditional punted boats, or the more elaborate ‘kettuvalloms’, are the recommended means of travel. The reflection of lines of slender coconut trees in the water, tropical greenery, and the vignettes of life along the banks, are all classic Kerala.
