Where to go · Kerala
Six places, one
backwater country.
From Alleppey's palm-lined canals to Munnar's tea hills, every corner of Kerala has its own water and weather. Here are the six destinations we recommend you build a trip around.
The other five
Destinations to pair or visit on their own
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Bird sanctuary on the lake
Kumarakom
A cluster of islands on Vembanad Lake — quieter than Alleppey, with a renowned migratory bird sanctuary at its heart.
Ashtamudi's eight arms
Kollam
The southern gateway. Ashtamudi Lake's eight arms make for the longest, most uncrowded houseboat route in Kerala.
The rice bowl below the sea
Kuttanad
One of the few places on earth where farming happens below sea level. Paddy fields stretch to the horizon between narrow waterways.
Spice routes and Chinese nets
Fort Kochi
Five centuries of Portuguese, Dutch, and British history packed into a walkable harbour town. The classic start to a Kerala trip.
Tea hills above the backwaters
Munnar
Endless tea plantations, mist-wrapped peaks, and cool weather. The classic hill-station pairing with a backwater cruise.
Multi-stop itineraries
Pair a backwater stay with the hills or coast
Our most popular trips combine 2–3 nights in Munnar or Fort Kochi with a 1–2 night houseboat cruise. We'll plan the entire route around your dates.