Kerala backwaters: calm rides, slow breakfasts, serene views. Experience the pace of the backwaters and let the calm refresh your mind and body.
Exploring Kerala’s Backwaters
The backwaters are more than one lake. They are a whole connected system of waterways—lagoons, lakes, and narrow canals—that run behind Kerala’s coastline.
- Small islands divide the water into channels.
- Villages and paddy fields line the banks.
- Boats and ferries move daily.
Kollam is next to Ashtamudi Lake:
- Kerala’s second-largest lake.
- Its name means “eight braids,” for its many branches.
- It forms a mangrove-rich estuary near Neendakara.
A backwater stay lets you live in a real, everyday landscape.
Why Choose Kerala Backwater Resorts?
Why choose a backwater stay? A few differences stand out straight away.
- Quieter background noise
- You hear birds and water, not traffic.
- Slow, steady pace
- Boats drift past, clouds change, and light moves across the water. You may sit in one place, but the view never feels stuck.
- Nature at close range
- You’ll often spot water birds at sunrise and sunset.
- Built-in slower pace
- Life here moves slowly. Your days in the resort naturally follow that rhythm.
A few quiet days in this manner can be a welcome respite.
Types of Backwater Resorts in Kerala
Search for Backwater Resorts in Kerala, and you’ll quickly see there’s no single “standard” property. You’ll find:
- Large lake resorts
- Big properties with many rooms, pools, and dining.
- Best for families or groups who want everything on site.
- Mid-size or boutique stays
- Fewer rooms and a personal feel.
- Best for couples, families, and travellers.
- Wellness Treatments
- Set meals, yoga, and simple daily routines.
- Good fit if you are specifically seeking rest and health in a backwater setting.
Why Look Closer at Kollam
Many travellers choose Kollam for quieter backwaters.
Why Choose Resorts in Kollam:
- Distinctive lake layout
- Ashtamudi Lake shifts from open views to quiet corners on a short boat ride.
- Less boat traffic
- You’ll see boats, but it doesn’t feel crowded.
- Plenty of choice without feeling overbuilt
- From larger branded resorts to modest lakefront stays, there is variety without long rows of concrete right on the water.
- Easy mix of lake and town
- By the water, yet near town, markets, and beaches.
Kollam offers a genuine, comfortable backwater stay without the crowds.
What Resorts in Kollam Offer
Many lakeside resorts in Kollam share the basics.
- Water or garden-view rooms
- A lake-view pool
- Lawns and shaded seating
- Local Kerala food
- Easy boat access
More upmarket properties may add:
- Spa or Ayurveda treatment rooms.
- Children’s play areas, game rooms and planned activities.
- Occasional evening shows.
Mid-range resorts in Kerala, Kollam feel spacious. The landscape itself pushes resorts to spread out rather than build vertically.
Fragrant Nature Backwater Resort: A Useful Example
Fragrant Nature Paravur is a well-designed backwater resort near Kollam.
What to expect:
- Setting: By Paravur Lake, with calm water and greenery.
- Accommodation: Water-view rooms and villas with privacy.
- Common areas: Pool and shaded paths.
Benchmark for Kollam lakeside resorts.
A Day in a Backwater Resort: Slow & Calm
Picture a typical day and its easy rhythm.
- Early morning: Misty lake views and boats begin.
- Breakfast: A slow meal with local and simple favourites.
- Late morning: Enjoy by the water.
- Afternoon: Rest, swim, or stay inside.
It’s a relaxed plan. Instead, it’s about giving yourself unhurried time—and a place where doing “nothing much” actually feels right.
Choosing the Right Backwater Resort
These simple filters make choosing a Kerala backwater resort easier.
1. Decide Why You’re Going
- For a couple’s break
- Look for privacy, a smaller number of rooms, lake-view units, and maybe the option of private meals.
- For a family trip
- Calm days with boats and lake views.
- For solo time
- Pick calm, welcoming mid-size or boutique resorts.
2. Check the Location, Not Just Photos
In Kollam and Ashtamudi:
- Main-lake resorts offer wide views and more boat activity.
- Side-lake resorts are quieter, near canals and villages.
Use satellite maps as well as pictures. A line like “near the backwaters” can hide the fact that the resort is actually set back from the water or separated by a road.
3. Balance Budget and Inclusions
Once you shortlist a few:
- Fix a nightly budget, including taxes.
- Check what’s included beyond breakfast.
- Look for packages with a boat trip.
A good mid-range resort in Kollam often beats luxury.
Around Kollam’s Backwaters
A few outings add variety, even on a restful trip.
- Ashtamudi cruises: Short sunset or longer scenic rides.
- Munroe Island: Quiet canals by canoe.
- Town & coast: Quick visits for a change of pace.
Most resorts in Kollam make trips easy to arrange.
Backwater Stay Tips
Plan a little:
- Best time: Oct–Mar cool; monsoon wet.
- Stay: 2 nights to try, 3+ to relax.
- Your time: Leave gaps—slow hours are the point.
Monsoon Magic: Kerala Backwaters.
Monsoon is green and peaceful, carry fast-dry clothes. Select a resort that has covered areas in order to have a good time during the rain.
Kerala in a Plate: Foods you must try
Try Karimeen, appam, and sadya. Request employees to change the taste of spices or their diet.
Optimum Backwater Activities.
Early in the morning is the best time to watch birds and take peaceful boat trips. Midday suits are sun protection tours or market visits. The afternoon is best when swimming or taking a rest. River Cruise and after-dinner stargazing.
The Resort: Village Experiences, beyond the Resort.
Go out to see every day life by the water-side–coir-making, toddy tapping, or shaded lanes. The walk along the water, canoeing or a tea can be a great experience.
Ready to Plan Your Backwater Break?
For a peaceful getaway, select a backwater resort that fits your budget and unwind by the water. Choose a backwater resort and relax by the water.
Book your Kerala backwater stay in Kollam, Ashtamudi, or Paravur and relax by the water.
