Discover the Hidden Beauty of Kerala’s Backwaters
When most people think of Kerala’s backwaters, their minds drift to houseboats in Alleppey or Kumarakom. But there’s another side to this stunning landscape. In the northern district of Kasaragod, the backwaters stretch like vast rivers, lined with dense coconut groves and dotted with small villages. This is where nature thrives in its purest form and where travelers can experience the tranquility of Kerala away from the usual tourist trails.
Here, among the palm-fringed waterways, lies a hidden retreat. An island escape where time slows down, and the rhythm of life follows the gentle lapping of water against the shore. This is the perfect place to unwind and experience the magic of traveling in India.
A Unique Stay by the Backwaters
Imagine waking up in a cozy, beautifully crafted cottage where the sound of water lulls you into deep relaxation. Accommodation here is designed to blend seamlessly with nature, using locally sourced bamboo, wood, and traditional Kerala-style materials.
Each cottage offers a unique experience, with some floating on the water, others perched on stilts among the trees, and a few resting at the edge of the backwaters.
The cottages are well-furnished, with comfortable beds, attached bathrooms, and private verandas where you can sip your morning tea while watching the sunrise over the water. Thus, you can enjoy modern comforts while being completely immersed in Kerala’s natural beauty.
Seafood & Traditional Cuisine
The food here is an experience in itself. Fresh seafood takes center stage, with mussels, prawns, oysters, and a variety of fish sourced directly from the surrounding waters. These delicacies are prepared with local spices and served alongside traditional Kerala dishes, including aromatic curries, coconut-infused vegetables, and fluffy rice puddings.
For those who prefer vegetarian options, the spread is just as indulgent, featuring seasonal ingredients cooked to perfection by the in-house chef. Every meal is served on a banana leaf, adding an authentic touch to the experience. If you’re a foodie looking to explore Kerala’s flavors, you’re in for a treat!
Explore the Backwaters
One of the best things about traveling in India is discovering hidden gems, and this destination is filled with them.
- Boat through the palm-fringed backwaters and experience Kerala’s waterways at their most pristine.
- Ride to a secluded sandy beach, where the waves of the Arabian Sea gently lap against untouched shores.
- Go for a traditional Kerala massage and feel the stress melt away.
- Hop between islands and discover tiny fishing villages tucked away in the greenery.
- Swim in the backwaters and enjoy the refreshing embrace of nature.
- Canoe through the mangroves, a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers.
- Play volleyball or badminton with fellow travelers or locals on the sandy shores.
- Trek to Ranipuram & Kottancheri Hills, offering breathtaking views of the Western Ghats.
- Camp by the Tejaswini River for an unforgettable night under the stars.
- Take a coracle boat ride, a traditional round boat experience that lets you drift gently through the backwaters.
- Go on a houseboat cruise and enjoy the scenic landscapes of Kerala from the comfort of a floating home.
- Visit Bekal Fort & Parassinikadavu Temple, two historic sites that reveal Kerala’s rich cultural heritage.
- Indulge in Ayurvedic treatments to rejuvenate both body and mind.
- Join an Ayurveda course, ranging from three days to two weeks, for an immersive wellness experience.
If you’re looking for an offbeat travel experience in India, one that lets you truly embrace the beauty of Kerala’s backwaters, this hidden paradise is waiting for you.