For the adventure seeker, Kerala has been offering lots of adventure things. God’s Own Country, Kerala, is marked by a 580 kilometer of coastline, magnanimous mountains ranges, huge forest patches, mangroves, beautiful backwaters, exotic biodiversity, a unique cultural canvas, several hill stations and a sensuous culture. For the adventure tourists, the opportunities include paragliding, bamboo rafting, kayaking, canoeing, trekking, wildlife safaris and more. One of the most sought after adventure activity is kayaking. This is reasoned by more than 44 rivers, of different length and water capacity flowing though Keralian terrain. Kayaking, a modernized version of canoeing is a closed deck boat that allows for singular/multiple rowers tackle the river flow. Depending on the experience of the rower, Kayaking can be done in both calm backwaters and roaring rapids. It is one of the best ways for lake bird watching.
For someone looking for the best opportunities for kayaking in Kerala, here’s a list of the top destinations for fantastic and unique experience.
#1 – Muziris
An ancient seaport in the Malabar Coast, Muziris has been important for India’s trade relations with Egyptians, Persians, Roman and the Greeks. Today, it hosts the Malabar River Festival – a gathering that sees thousands of domestic and foreign paddlers take part in the event. Muziris falls under the Ernakulum District and is marked by the great Periyar River – the longest for the state. Kayaking through Muziris takes you through rustic villages, backwaters, bridges, busy markets, connecting islands and bridges that overlook fishing farms, coconut groves and old temples.
How to reach:
The nearest railway station to Muziris is Aluva (19 kilometers) and the nearest airport is Cochin International Airport (22 kilometers). Local transportation easily takes you around the town.
#2 – Kuttanad
Kuttanad, popularly called the ‘Rice Bowl of Kerala’ is marked by a green scape that is romantically interrupted by four beautiful rivers including the Pamba, Manimala, Achankovil and Meenachil. The backwater basins spread all across host a special amalgamation of wildlife and makes Kuttanad a perfect spot for adventure camping. While you can spend your days in the peaceful backwaters for kayaking, the morning would be for exotic bird-watching or just hiking through the countryside to catch glimpses of the agrarian culture and community.
How to reach:
Kuttanad is easily accessible from the Alappuzha Railway Station and the Cochin International Airport. Kuttanad is also well connected by state and national highways.
Also Read: 15 Amazing Things to do in Kerala even Locals will Agree With!
#3 – River Periyar
Running for more than 244 kilometers, the Periyar is the longest river in Kerala and offers a huge catchment area spanning 5398 sq. kms. The major tributaries of the river include the Muthirapuzha, Mullayar, Edamala, Perinjankutti and Cheruthoni. Each of these tributaries along with the main river makes for amazing opportunity for kayaking at all levels. From the high range plateaus in Munnar to the low lying basins at Puyamkutti, there’s a unique amalgamation of rapids and calm backwaters.
How to reach:
The Periyar River stretches through many districts, starting from the Sivagiri Hills to the Lakshadweep Sea. Consequently, there are places you can get down to meet the river. However, if you are looking for kayaking/camping experience, the popular stops include Munnar, Thannikudy, Mullaperiyar, Idukki and Neriamangalam (Ernakulum).
#4 – River Pamba
The third longest river for the state, Pamba passes through the Alappuzha District. The origin of the river is at a height of 1650 meters in the Peerumedu Plateau and thereby it flows through Adoor, Ranni, Tiruvalla, Kuttanad, and Ambalappuzha before ending up in Vembanadu Lake. The most popular kayaking place in the Pamba River are based around Kuttanad and take you through the Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary.
How to reach:
Periyar in Kuttanad is easily accessible from the Changanacherry & Alappuzha Railway Station and the Cochin & Thiruvananthapuram International Airport. You can also reach at Kuttanad by Ferry & port. Kuttanad is also well connected by state and national highways.
So, why are you waiting for? Just plan your Kerala trip now to get amazing Kayaking experience on the Kerala backwaters to explore the picturesque beauty of God’s own country, Kerala.
