Kerala is the most picturesque and versatile tourist destination of India. Its beauty lies in its innumerable lagoons, lakes, estuaries, beaches, hill stations and above of all its serene and calm backwaters. The backwaters passing through lush green vegetation make a splendid setting for tourists to relax and explore natural beauty of Kerala. Houseboats moving gently in calm waters, cool refreshing air, chirping birds flying in the sky and wild animals playing along the shores never fail to enchants all its visitors.

One can begin ones journey at Alleppey, the gateway to the inland water system of the state. Cruise through the Punnamada Lake, visit the Chavara Bhavan, an olden wooden house and enjoy the panoramic views of paddy fields, canals coconut lagoons and fisherfolk going about their daily chores. When all that is done, take a trip to the 400-year-old Champakulam church or if you are lucky, cheer the competitors at the 110 feet long snake boat races.

The other route for a backwater cruise could begin at Alappuzha with its maze of backwaters, canals and bridges. As you make your way out of Alappuzha through the rice bowl of Kuttanad, you will often find your boat moving on water, the level of which is often higher than that of the green fields on either side. Cruise on to Kochi via the backwaters and you will get an opportunity to see many beautiful sights along the way, such as the Chinese fishing nets, which are believed to have been introduced into Kerala by the traders from Kublai Khan's court.

A beautiful backwater spot accessible from Alappuzha is Kumarakom. Breathtakingly green, the little village seems to be sleeping peacefully by the Vembanad Lake. The lush green of the countryside gently mixes with the swaying coconut palms and blends into the waters. Kumarakom is so enchanting that in the last century an Englishman, Henry Baker, fell in love with the place and built his bungalow there. Today, the elegant and stylish mansion is a tourist complex.

Next door to Kumarakom is the well-known 14-acre Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary.
A haven for water ducks, Siberian birds and many more species from half way across the world, the sanctuary is a pleasure to visit in any season. But the best time is winter for it is then that birds come in droves. A golden yellow island, Pathiramanal, is also in Vembanad Lake and must not be missed. From there to Kochi is a short ride but one that will take you to a world of peace and quiet.

You could take another route from Alappuzha to Kollam. Your cruise will take you up the Pampa river to the island hamlet of Champpakkulam, and then on to the Karumadi Canal. Take time off to see the statue of Buddha, which locals believe is a legacy from the time when Buddhist monks came to Kerala to preach their message of peace. Then your Kettuvallam will go past Trikunnapuzha across the Kayamkulam and Ashtamudi Lake to end the journey at the ancient port of Kollam or Quilon.

The most exciting thing for the tourist going on backwaters tours of Kerala is Ketuvallom, the traditional giant houseboats measuring up to 80 ft in length. The houseboats have excellent facilities on board including well-decorated bedroom with attached toilets and a separate dining area. On the deck of the houseboat you can rest at ease at night and explore the verdant and beautiful countryside during the day. Exploring scenic backwaters of Kerala on a houseboat would surely provide you a momentous and unforgettable tour; you would relish and remember all your life.

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