Kochi, a bustling port city in Kerala, is not only famous for its rich history, colonial architecture, and vibrant culture but also for its picturesque backwaters. The Kochi backwaters are a network of interconnected lakes, rivers, canals, and lagoons that offer a serene escape into nature. Known for their natural beauty and tranquility, these backwaters have become a popular attraction for both local and international tourists. Whether you’re looking to relax, experience local life, or enjoy a boat ride, a Kochi backwater tour is an unforgettable experience.
What Are Kochi Backwaters?
The Kochi backwaters are a unique ecosystem in Kerala, formed by the vast network of freshwater rivers that flow into the Arabian Sea. These backwaters are a mix of natural and man-made canals and lakes, with water levels varying due to tides and seasons. The waterways of Kochi are lined with lush greenery, coconut palms, small villages, and traditional fishing nets, providing a picturesque setting for boat rides. They are part of the larger backwater system of Kerala, which stretches across the state and includes popular destinations like Alleppey and Kumarakom.
The Kochi backwaters are home to various species of birds, fish, and other aquatic life. The environment is calm and peaceful, offering an opportunity to experience Kerala’s natural beauty up close. With its tropical climate, green surroundings, and warm waters, the backwaters of Kochi are ideal for a rejuvenating trip away from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Popular Backwater Tour Options in Kochi
A backwater trip in Kochi offers many exciting options for tourists, with different routes and types of boats to choose from. Here are a few popular Kochi backwater tours you can experience:
1. Alleppey Backwater Tour
One of the most well-known and widely preferred backwater trips in Kochi is the Alleppey backwater tour. Known as the “Venice of the East,” Alleppey is located about an hour’s drive from Kochi and is famous for its serene backwaters. Tourists can take a houseboat ride through the narrow canals and rivers of Alleppey, enjoying views of lush paddy fields, quaint villages, and local life along the banks.
Although Alleppey is the hub for Kerala’s backwater tourism, you can visit parts of it from Kochi. The experience around Alleppey is a mixed bag of both backwaters and villages that help you get the real Kerala flavor.
2. Kumbalangi Backwaters
For the ones who look for a rather quiet, off-beat, tourist-free experience, the Kumbalangi backwaters near Kochi are very apt. Known as Kochi’s first eco-tourism village, Kumbalangi is a small village located on the outskirts of the city, surrounded by scenic backwaters. The boat rides here offer a chance to see traditional Kerala village life up close. You can also spot fishing farms, bird sanctuaries, and enjoy local seafood while on your journey. The area is known for its eco-friendly initiatives, making it a peaceful retreat from the more commercialized areas of Kochi.
3. Vypin Island Backwater Tour
Another popular destination for backwater trips in Kochi is Vypin Island, which is located just off the coast of the mainland Kochi city. The backwaters around Vypin Island are relatively less crowded, making it a perfect place for a peaceful and scenic boat ride. This island is famous for its scenic beaches and fishing villages. You will experience the backwaters, lush green sceneries, traditional boats, and Chinese fishing nets while surrounded by the peaceful ambiance.
4. Munambam Backwaters
Located in the northern part of Kochi, Munambam is another hidden gem when it comes to backwater tours. This area is less commercialized and offers a more rustic and natural backwater experience. Munambam is famous for its fish farms, birdlife, and coconut groves. It’s an excellent place to take a boat ride and observe the simplicity of rural life along the backwaters of Kochi.
5. Kochi Backwater Day Cruises
For those who prefer to stay closer to the city, several day cruises on the Kochi backwaters depart from Fort Kochi and Mattancherry. These cruises take tourists along the waters of Kochi Harbour, providing a scenic view of the city’s coastline, islands, and colonial-era buildings. The cruise also offers the chance to observe the bustling port life of Kochi, with views of container ships, fishing boats, and the famous Chinese fishing nets.
Experience the Houseboat at Kochi Backwaters
The houseboat experience is the highlight of any backwater tour in Kochi. Kerala’s houseboats, known as kettuvallams, were originally used for transporting goods like rice and spices. Over the years, these boats have been converted into floating cottages, complete with cozy bedrooms, bathrooms, and dining areas. Taking a houseboat cruise through the Kochi backwaters allows you to enjoy the beauty of the region in the most comfortable way possible.
Houseboats in Kochi are available in various sizes, from small, intimate boats perfect for couples to large, luxury houseboats with modern amenities like air-conditioning, a kitchen, and a deck for enjoying the scenery. During a houseboat tour, you’ll have the chance to relax on the deck while cruising through the peaceful backwaters. You can make a stopover at small villages to mingle with the locals or relish the freshly prepared Kerala cuisine on board, which will often comprise of seafood, appams, and karimeen (pearl spot fish).
Things to Do in Kochi Backwater Tour
Apart from gazing out at the scenery, there are numerous things you can do during your Kochi backwater tour. Some of the popular activities include:
Fishing: You can experience the traditional way of fishing like Chinese fishing net. It’s a great experience to be interacting with the local fishermen.
Bird Watching: Backwaters are an abode for many species of birds, particularly migratory birds during the winter season. One can spot different species like kingfishers, herons, and egrets.
Village Visits: Many backwater tours include a stop at nearby villages where you can experience the day-to-day life of the locals. This may include visits to fish farms, coir making, and toddy tapping.
Sunset Cruise: The backwaters offer one of the best spots to witness the famous Kerala sunset. The sight of the sun setting over the water, with a backdrop of coconut palms, is a peaceful and unforgettable experience.
Best Time for Kochi Backwater Tours
The ideal time for a backwater tour in Kochi is during the winter months (from October to March), when the weather is cool and pleasant. This is also the peak tourist season in Kerala, so if you’re looking for a more tranquil experience, it’s best to visit during the weekdays or the shoulder months of September and April. The monsoon season (from June to September) can be heavy, making backwater tours less enjoyable, but it is also the season when the landscapes are lush and green.
Conclusion
A Kochi backwater tour is one of the most peaceful and memorable experiences you can have in Kerala. Whether you’re cruising on a houseboat through the winding canals, watching local fishermen in action, or simply soaking in the natural beauty, the Kochi backwaters offer a unique way to experience the region’s culture and landscape. The tranquility of the water, the beauty of the surroundings, and the warmth of the people make a backwater trip in Kochi a must-do activity for anyone visiting this vibrant city.
