The Keralan Backwaters offer two contrasting experiences along the west coast of India, from the vibrant canals of Alleppey to the serene waterways of Valiyaparamba in the north.
Southern Kerala, centred around Lake Vembanad and Alleppey, buzzes with daily life: narrow canals are lined with villages, houseboats, and industries like coir-making and prawn farming. In contrast, the northern backwaters are quieter, broader, and more peaceful, better suited for travellers seeking nature, space, and reflection. A well-paced trip might include a few nights in the south followed by time on a houseboat in the north – a chance to feel the full rhythm of this unique region.
