Padding through

Tucked away in the southwestern corner of India, is a land with palm-fringed coastlines, tranquil lagoons, and winding canals. Often called “God’s Own Country,” Kerala charms and mesmerizes with its famous backwaters, inviting a growing wave of travelers to seek a more intimate, active, and eco-friendly way to connect with its unique ecosystem— an experience only a kayak can offer.

Adventure kayaking tours in Kerala are redefining the way travelers are experiencing this region. They are offering travelers a front-row seat to get up, close, and personal with the region’s hidden wonders—lush coconut groves, sleepy villages, exotic birdlife, and reflections that blur the line between water and sky.

What is a kayak?

A kayak is a small, narrow boat that is propelled forward by the rower using a long, double-bladed paddle. The word kayak has its origins in the Inuktitut word qajaq. The difference between a kayak and a canoe lies in their design. Compared to a canoe’s open-top design, the kayak has a closed deck, which makes it easier to paddle and maneuver through all types of water.

Why should you Kayak in Kerala?

Kerala’s backwaters stretch out in a vast network of interconnected canals, rivers, lakes, and inlets, making it a paddler’s paradise. Unlike motorized boats, a kayak allows you to slip silently through the narrowest of canals, offering a deeply immersive experience of the region’s local life and landscape.

Here’s what sets kayaking apart:

Closeness to nature: You’ll spot kingfishers, cormorants, and even otters, often just a few feet away.
Off-the-beaten path: Reach areas that are inaccessible by houseboats or even shikaras.
Peace & quiet: No diesel engines. No crowd. Just the rhythm of your paddle cutting through glassy water.
Fitness with fun: It’s an active adventure, where you get to set your pace.

Popular Kayaking Routes in Kerala

Alleppey (Alappuzha)
Known as the “Venice of the East,” Alleppey tops the list of backwater kayaking spots. Early morning or sunset tours through narrow canals are popular as they reveal life waking up along the water: fishermen casting nets, women washing clothes at stone steps, and children waving happily at you, as you pass.

Not-to-be-missed spots:

Village canals of Kainakary
Vembanad Lake edges
Birdwatching along paddy fields

Kumarakom

Nestled on the banks of Vembanad Lake, this peaceful village is another kayaking haven. You’ll love navigating the lotus-filled waters and the mangrove-lined canals.

Highlights:

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, especially at sunrise
Narrow feeder canals near Aymanam village

Thattekad & Periyar River

Looking for a forest-meets-river vibe? Head to Thattekad near the Western Ghats. Kayaking on the Periyar River offers a wilder, more adventurous experience, and is ideal for birders and those looking to pair water with trekking or camping. More often than not, you’ll get to see hornbills, jungle owls, and giant Malabar squirrels.

Munroe Island

For a serene, offbeat kayaking adventure, Munroe Island is a gem. Located near Kollam, at the confluence of the Ashtamudi lake and the Kallada river, this lesser-known destination combines winding canals, a rustic village experience, and unbeatable sunsets.

Valiyaparamba Backwaters (Kannur)

The backwaters here are away from the usual tourist track, leaving them quiet and undisturbed. This route is perfect for travelers wanting to kayak in solitude.

When is a good time to kayak in Kerala?

The best time is winter when the weather is pleasant and the waters are calm. Monsoon is best avoided due to heavy rains and strong currents. Summer is a safe bet, provided you go kayaking early in the morning or at sunset to avoid the soaring temperatures. Also, while a soft-shell kayak is good for the backwaters, a hard-shell kayak is best for the rivers.

Types of Kayaking Tours

Most operators offer a range of packages depending on your skill level and time:

Sunrise or Sunset Tours (2–3 hours): Ideal for beginners or those short on time.
Half-Day Tours: These tours combine kayaking with a village walk or local lunch.
Full-Day Expeditions: Paddle across lakes, canals, and rivers with stops at local attractions.
Multi-Day Tours: Includes overnight stays in eco-lodges or tents with all meals, perfect for serious adventurers.

If you’re a beginner with no previous experience in kayaking, don’t feel disheartened. Most kayaking tour operators include a brief training session, safety gear, and an experienced guide, who will accompany you throughout to ensure that you are safe and comfortable.

Tips For A Great Kayaking Adventure

Wear lightweight, quick-drying clothes and a hat. These are essential as you’ll be exposed to a lot of sun and be on the water.
Carry water, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Stay hydrated, stay protected.
Waterproof your gear—use dry bags or leave electronics behind unless they’re protected.
Listen to your guide—they know the safe routes, currents, and hidden corners.
Early morning and evening tours offer the best lighting, coolest weather, and most wildlife activity.

Your planet needs you, and a kayak

Kayaking is one of the most sustainable ways to explore Kerala’s backwaters. It leaves zero pollution, causes minimal disturbance to wildlife, and supports local communities, especially if you book through small, eco-conscious tour operators. Some even offer kayak-and-clean-up packages where you help remove plastic from the canals as you paddle.

Kerala’s backwaters are a living, breathing world where people and nature coexist in harmony. Kayaking lets you tap into that rhythm, gently and respectfully, one paddle stroke at a time. Choose responsible traveling. Step onto a kayak. Let the canals of Kerala show you the way.