There is an intricate web of waterways in Kerala, where the sea playfully teases the shore. The lagoons gently brush past villages and overhanging grass, and throw back the palms’ reflection off their blue-green-blue surface.

‘Kollam and Alleppey’ hit the tourist map as the launch pad for the backwater cruises. They are both typical little market towns but tall coconut palms sway in the cool breeze, cashew plantations dot the surrounding countryside and scenic little houses line the streets. The backwater cruises in Kerala are definitely a must-do. The houseboats may look rugged on the outside but inside they have a quaint rustic softness. Western toilets, neat rooms, fresh catch cooked to perfection in the local way, a gently nattering boatman......this is life!

The summers are muggy till the rains break and bring wet relief in June. The slush becomes all-pervasive, and so do the green and the bugs. Hardened travellers wouldn’t mind but novices and strictly pleasure travellers should stick with the October to February official season. The famous Nehru Cup Snake Boat Race at Allepey is a sight to behold. Long serpentine boats rowed in rhythmic frenzy by multiple sets of shining able-bodied Malayali men compete for this prized trophy. The boat race is held in mid-January for tourists, while the real competition is scheduled for the second Saturday of August, every year.

Getting There: The nearest airport is at Thiruvananthapuram, which is easily accessible from Kollam. Quite a few trains pass through Kollam on their way to and from larger cities. The best train journey is the one from Chennai’s Egmore; the Quilon Mail winds its way beautifully across the Western Ghats. Buses ply really cheap from Thiruvananthapuram, and Ernakulam. A great arrangement is to have a hired taxi waiting for you to ferry you around after your Kettuvallam cruise down the backwaters gets over.

Accommodation: There’s a range of accommodation but it doesn’t go too far up in the luxury bracket. But, basically, from railway restrooms to shack establishments to air-conditioned doubles with attached bathrooms, it’s all there. You’re bound to enjoy the lagoons no matter what but mosquito repellent, drinking water, cottons and sun protection gear will probably help you enjoy them better. 

For more State and Visitor information, see Kerala.