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Kerala
Backwaters
Backwaters of Kerala
The charm of Kerala lies in its unique attraction, something which
is not seen or experienced anywhere else in the world. And there is
not just one or two of these. You go on counting as Kerala springs
surprises one after another from its treasure chest. You will get
tired of witnessing Kerala's marvels, still Kerala will have more
to show you.
Backwaters....
One such unique attraction, or rather an exhilarating experience comes
in the form of a trip to the Kerala Backwaters. For those who have
come across the term backwaters for the first time, here's a bit of
explanation as to what it actually is. Backwaters are formed when
the sea water collects at the beach by the to and fro motion of waves.
In Kerala, they constitute the canals, lakes, lagoons and estuaries.
The entire network include five large lakes connected by 1500 km of
canals. Most of them are natural, however, there are man made canals
as well. These are supplied by 38 rivers that flow through the entire
state.
A touch of legendary folklore is also interesting here according to
which the land of Kerala sprung up as a result of the throwing of
axe in the sea by the sage warrior, Parshurama. The distance covered
by the axe dried up to give way to land which today is known as Kerala.
So the link between Kerala's land and water is invariably strong and
the water still takes care of and nourishes it unfailingly.
Significance of Backwaters - Past, Present and Future
In earlier times, when the technology was not much advanced and when
roadways were not properly developed, Kerala's backwaters served as
its main highway. Passengers and goods were transported from one place
to another in equal measures by means of these backwaters. However,
as of today, these backwaters are mainly used by the tourism industry
to introduce tourists to the hidden troves of the state. The Backwaters
is inextricably linked to its past history and culture, is an important
part of the present and promises to remain so in future as well.
Backwater Tourism
A number of times, while you are on a trip discovering a new place,
a sense of dissatisfaction dawns upon and makes you feel as if the
happiness felt at knowing the place was not worth the effort put in
to reach there. Not so with Kerala Backwaters. Kerala's Backwater
experience will give you much more than just simple happiness. It
will give you a feeling of elation - a feeling that has eluded you
for a long time now. It is pristine, probably even child like where
you feel like clapping with delight.
Plenty of clean water, refreshing greenery, amazing scenery around
and a silence broken only by chirping of birds and waters moving below
the boat - this is what you will definitely get on your Backwater
trip to Kerala. Remote places that are otherwise disconnected from
main areas seem to sail past like a dream. Fishing villages, tribal
hamlets, people carrying on with their day to day work - scenes like
this will be abundant.
The Backwaters of Kerala are also a venue for the annual boat races
that take place in the different parts of the state. If you happen
to visit during this season (which is around July to September), you
can also witness the enthusiasm of the Backwaters as huge boats rush
past each other to win the competition amidst loud cheers from the
spectators.
The perfect way to explore the beauty and serenity of Kerala Backwater
is to hire a boat or a canoe. For a little longer trip, houseboats,
which are converted kettuvallom earlier used to carry cargo and passengers,
can be hired .
Kerala Backwater Destinations
Alappuzha
Start off from Alappuzha, a major Backwater Destination and the Venice
of East. An intricate network of canals in Alappuzha, especially the
ones that are a part of the Vembanad Lake are just the place if you
wish to see some really awe inspiring beauty. Scenes enroute are a
varied lot - paddy fields, coconut lagoons, secluded islands, men
on country boats busy fishing and shepherding their ducks to new pastures
and school children being taken across the canal. Kuttunad, the rice
bowl of Kerala, is at the centre of attraction here. This is perhaps
the only place where farming is done on land below sea level. You
can also step out of the boat and visit the village craftsmen while
they are working to make coir. Taste the traditional Keralese food
in one of these places, particularly the sea food. Boats are available
from the jetty itself which is close to the KSRTC Bus Stand.
Kumarakom
Yet another Backwater destination on the banks of Vembanad Lake, the
beauty of Kumarakom has inspired the likes of former Prime Minister,
Atal Behari Vajpayee to state, 'Natures silent beauty provides a perfect
setting here for contemplation'. Kumarakom Backwater, supposedly discovered
just a decade ago, provides some splendid views of coconut groves,
mangroves and paddy fields. The highpoint of your journey will be
reaching the Pathiramanal Island which is around an hour's ride from
the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary.
Kollam
Fondly referred to as Swapnadesham by many of her faithful admirer,
Kollam was once centre of cashew trade in Kerala. Today, the same
industry has lost much of its zeal, nonetheless, the beauty and serenity
of this little jewel of Kerala has not faded out even a wee bit. The
Backwaters in the Ashtamudi Lake and its canals is still as mesmerizing
as it was years back. Hire a boat and set out to explore the islands
and villages that lie on way the route you have chosen to traverse.
Kozhikode
Located in the northern part of Kerala, Kozhikode has virtually unexplored
backwater regions. As such, you can expect plenty of new discovery
at each step. Elathur, the Canolly Canal and the Kallai river are
favourite places for boating. Also popular are the Kadulundi Bird
Sanctuary and Korapuza, the venue for Korapuzha Jalotsavam.
Kochi
The Queen of Arabian Sea, Kochi has one of the best natural harbours
in the world. All the islands that constitute a part of Kochi are
interconnected by a network of backwaters canals and lakes. Cruising
through them and viewing the Chinese fishing net, particularly during
sunset, will elate you beyond expression.
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Kerala
Honeymoon Tour Packages
The overwhelming tranquility and the myriad colours of various
beautiful sights of Kerala give a breathtaking experience that
rejuvenates our minds and bodies. Kerala happens to be an ideal
destination for nature lovers and a perfect getaway from the
chaotic city life.It has also emerged as a major honeymoon spot
in India. Our effort is to bring you face to face with the adoring
beauty of Kerala. In this we take a move ahead and offer a wide
range of tour packages, for the honeymoon couples.
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Kerala
House Boats
Kettuvallams, the stitched boats are the traditional
house boats of Kerala. They provide the best way to experience
the colourful backwaters of Kerala. The Kettuvalloms of
Kerala are giant country crafts, measuring up to 80 feet
in length. The traditional house boat, the indispensable
part of the picturesque backwaters of Kerala, was mainly
used in Travancore and Kochi and in the Minicoy Islands
in olden times.
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Kerala
Festivals
The rich and glorious Kerala cultural heritage is
reflected in the vibrant Kerala festivals that mirror
the ancient traditions, customs, beliefs and faiths of
the people of Kerala, South India.The festivals of Kerala,
South India are annual occasions that are celebrated for
commemorating religious occasions. Some of the popular
Kerala festivals are Onam, Vishu, Mahasivarathri, Asthami
Rohini, Thiruvathira, Pooram Festival and Thrissur Pooram.
more...
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