Kerala, fondly called God’s Own Country, is renowned for its lush greenery, cultural heritage, and most of all, its backwaters. Stretching across serene lagoons, lakes, and canals, the backwaters create a magical landscape that feels timeless. A 7 days Kerala backwater tour offers the perfect opportunity to explore this enchanting region, with its traditional houseboats, charming villages, and hidden natural gems that many travelers overlook.
Why Choose a 7 Days Kerala Backwater Tour?
A short trip may give you a glimpse of Kerala’s backwaters, but a weeklong journey lets you fully immerse yourself in its beauty and culture. A 7 days Kerala backwater tour combines houseboat cruises, village experiences, birdwatching, wellness therapies, and visits to less-crowded destinations. For those seeking both relaxation and discovery, it’s the perfect balance.
Houseboats: The Heart of the Backwater Experience
One of the highlights of this tour is staying on a kettuvallam, the traditional Kerala houseboat. Originally used to transport rice and spices, these boats have been transformed into floating cottages equipped with bedrooms, lounges, and dining areas. Cruising on a houseboat lets you witness life along the canals—children going to school on small canoes, farmers working in paddy fields, and fishermen casting their nets.
Meals are freshly prepared on board, offering authentic Kerala flavors like Karimeen Pollichathu (pearl spot fish) and appam with stew. Spending the night anchored under the starlit sky is an unforgettable experience that connects you deeply with nature.
A 7-Day Itinerary to Explore Hidden Charms
Day 1: Kochi – A Cultural Start
Begin your journey in Kochi, a city rich in history and culture. Explore Fort Kochi’s colonial architecture, spice markets, and the iconic Chinese fishing nets. A Kathakali dance performance sets the tone for the cultural immersion ahead.
Day 2: Kochi to Alleppey – The Venice of the East
Head to Alleppey, the most famous backwater destination. Board your houseboat and start your cruise through coconut-lined canals and shimmering lagoons. Spend the day soaking in views of village life and the lush countryside.
Day 3: Alleppey to Kumarakom – Birdwatcher’s Paradise
Kumarakom, located on Vembanad Lake, is a hidden gem for nature lovers. Visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, where you can spot herons, egrets, and migratory birds. Enjoy canoe rides or unwind at lakeside resorts offering Ayurvedic therapies.
Day 4: Kumarakom to Kottayam – A Traditional Touch
Kottayam is surrounded by rubber plantations and paddy fields. It offers a quieter backwater experience, enriched by local culture. Explore heritage churches, temples, and village markets. Watch artisans weaving coir ropes and learn about Kerala’s traditional crafts.
Day 5: Kottayam to Kollam – Secrets of Ashtamudi Lake
Kollam, often less crowded than Alleppey, is home to the vast Ashtamudi Lake. This stop introduces you to hidden backwater charms—remote islands, peaceful fishing villages, and unique flora and fauna. A boat ride here feels more intimate and untouched.
Day 6: Kollam to Kovalam – Coastal Escape
Transition from the calm backwaters to the beaches of Kovalam. Famous for its crescent-shaped coastline and lighthouse, Kovalam offers relaxation, yoga retreats, and Ayurvedic massages. The golden sands and blue waters complement the backwater serenity.
Day 7: Departure from Trivandrum – Farewell to Kerala
Conclude your 7 days Kerala backwater tour in Thiruvananthapuram. Visit Padmanabhaswamy Temple, Napier Museum, or shop for Kerala’s handicrafts and spices before bidding farewell to this enchanting land.
Hidden Charms of the Backwater Journey
- Village Life: Watching locals engage in farming, fishing, and coir-making.
- Bird Sanctuaries: Kumarakom and Kollam are havens for birdwatchers.
- Cuisine: Traditional dishes made with fresh fish, coconut, and spices.
- Ayurvedic Wellness: Authentic treatments that rejuvenate body and mind.
- Quiet Retreats: Lesser-known spots like Kottayam and Kollam for solitude seekers.
Best Time to Plan Your Backwater Adventure
The ideal time for a 7 days Kerala backwater tour is between September and March when the climate is cool and pleasant. The monsoon months (June–August) bring lush greenery and are perfect for wellness seekers but may not suit those wanting clear skies.
Travel Tips for a Seamless Experience
- Book Houseboats Early: Especially during peak tourist season.
- Choose Sustainable Options: Look for eco-friendly tour operators.
- Pack Light: Carry cotton clothing, hats, sunscreen, and mosquito repellent.
- Taste the Local Flavors: Don’t miss Kerala’s fish curries, prawn masala, and traditional desserts.
- Stay Flexible: Customize your itinerary based on your interests—nature, culture, or wellness.
Conclusion
A 7 days Kerala backwater tour is not just a holiday—it’s a soulful journey where you discover the beauty of houseboats, hidden charms of villages, and the calming rhythm of nature. From Alleppey’s famous canals to Kollam’s serene lakes, every stop reveals a new layer of Kerala’s magic. Add to this the flavors of local cuisine, the healing touch of Ayurveda, and the warmth of Kerala’s people, and you have an experience that lingers in your heart long after the journey ends.
For those seeking both adventure and tranquility, Kerala’s backwaters offer the perfect escape—an unforgettable voyage through God’s Own Country.
