The Kerala backwaters is the rather unappealing name given to the peaceful and picturesque palm-lined network of lagoons, lakes, rivers, and canals that run inland from the coast of Kerala, from Kochi (Cochin) to Kollam (Quilon). The main entry point, situated between Kochi and Kollam, is Alleppey. At the heart of the backwaters is vast Vembanad Lake.
Traditionally, the backwaters are used by local people for transport, fishing, and agriculture.
Annual snake boat races, held along the backwaters, also provide a great source of entertainment for the locals and tourists alike.
The lush green landscape, diverse wildlife, and houses and villages that line the backwaters make a journey along these waterways seem like a journey through another world. No wonder the backwaters is one of the must-visit tourist places in Kerala. Don't miss it!
Getting to Alleppey from Kochi Airport
Alleppey can easily be reached in just over 2 hours by prepaid taxi from Kochi airport. The cost is about 2,200 rupees. Tickets are available at the booth in the airport arrivals hall.
A much cheaper option is to take one of the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation bus services from the airport to Alleppey. Special fast bus services depart from the transit area between the terminals at 9.15 a.m., 9.30 a.m., 10.40 a.m., 4.10 p.m, and 4.20 p.m. However, the schedule isn't always followed.
If you arrive at a time when there's not a bus, you'll find more services departing from Aluva Rajiv Gandhi Bus Station, about 20 minutes away, and the modern Vytilla Mobility Hub located 45 minutes away in Ernakulam.
Alternatively, Indian Railways trains stop in Alleppey. The railway station closest to Kochi airport is Aluva (spelled Alwaye with code AWY), opposite the bus station.
Another option is Ernakulam South, about an hour away.
Various Ways of Experiencing the Kerala Backwaters
Most people who visit the Kerala backwaters hire a traditional Kerala-style houseboat (called a kettuvallam). It's a quintessential Kerala experience, and one of the most tranquil and relaxing things you can do in India. Freshly cooked Indian food and chilled beer make the experience even more enjoyable. You can either go on a day trip or stay overnight on the boat.
Traditionally, the backwaters are used by local people for transport, fishing, and agriculture.
Annual snake boat races, held along the backwaters, also provide a great source of entertainment for the locals and tourists alike.
The lush green landscape, diverse wildlife, and houses and villages that line the backwaters make a journey along these waterways seem like a journey through another world. No wonder the backwaters is one of the must-visit tourist places in Kerala. Don't miss it!
Getting to Alleppey from Kochi Airport
Alleppey can easily be reached in just over 2 hours by prepaid taxi from Kochi airport. The cost is about 2,200 rupees. Tickets are available at the booth in the airport arrivals hall.
A much cheaper option is to take one of the Kerala State Road Transport Corporation bus services from the airport to Alleppey. Special fast bus services depart from the transit area between the terminals at 9.15 a.m., 9.30 a.m., 10.40 a.m., 4.10 p.m, and 4.20 p.m. However, the schedule isn't always followed.
If you arrive at a time when there's not a bus, you'll find more services departing from Aluva Rajiv Gandhi Bus Station, about 20 minutes away, and the modern Vytilla Mobility Hub located 45 minutes away in Ernakulam.
Alternatively, Indian Railways trains stop in Alleppey. The railway station closest to Kochi airport is Aluva (spelled Alwaye with code AWY), opposite the bus station.
Another option is Ernakulam South, about an hour away.
Various Ways of Experiencing the Kerala Backwaters
Most people who visit the Kerala backwaters hire a traditional Kerala-style houseboat (called a kettuvallam). It's a quintessential Kerala experience, and one of the most tranquil and relaxing things you can do in India. Freshly cooked Indian food and chilled beer make the experience even more enjoyable. You can either go on a day trip or stay overnight on the boat.