Things to do in Kerala Backwaters
Discover the best attractions and experiences Kerala Backwaters has to offer
Historic Monuments
Kerala’s colonial and royal past is visible in its forts, palaces and historic churches along the backwaters and coastal towns.
Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace)
This 16th-century palace in Mattancherry showcases Kerala murals and a blend of Portuguese and Dutch architectural influences.
Paradesi Synagogue
One of the oldest active synagogues in the Commonwealth, set in the historic Jew Town quarter of Fort Kochi.
Santa Cruz Basilica
A Portuguese-era church in Fort Kochi with rich stained glass and colonial history.
Bolgatty Palace
A historic Dutch palace on Bolgatty Island offering scenic backwater views near Kochi.
Museums
Explore Kerala’s art, folklore and maritime heritage through compact museums around Kochi and the backwater belt.
Kerala Folklore Museum
A collection of costumes, artefacts and performances illustrating Kerala’s performing arts.
Indo-Portuguese Museum (Fort Kochi)
Exhibits detailing the Indo-Portuguese era with artifacts and history from the coastal region.
Hill Palace Museum (Tripunithura)
A grand 19th-century heritage mansion turned museum displaying royal artefacts and art.
Religious Monuments
Sacred sites across Kochi and the backwaters reflect centuries of trade, faith and cultural exchange.
Paradesi Synagogue
Historic synagogue in Mattancherry with a storied Jewish heritage in Kerala.
St. Francis Church (Fort Kochi)
One of the oldest European churches in India, with a simple, enduring colonial charm.
Our Lady of Lourdes Cathedral (Kochi)
A prominent Catholic cathedral with a long-standing presence in the city.
National & Theme Parks
Kerala’s protected areas and theme parks showcase its wildlife, landscapes and outdoor adventures.
Periyar National Park
A lush wildlife sanctuary in Thekkady known for elephant sightings and boat safaris.
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
A lakeside sanctuary famous for migratory birds and tranquil backwater scenery.
Wonderla Kochi
A modern theme park offering rides and entertainment near the backwaters.
Neighborhoods
Walkable quarters and waterfront lanes reveal Kerala’s local life and historic trading hubs.
Fort Kochi
A historic waterfront neighborhood with colonial architecture, cafés and harbourside charm.
Mattancherry
Historic quarter known for Jew Town, spice markets and the Dutch Palace area.
Alleppey (Alappuzha) Town
Gateway to the backwaters, with busy canals, markets and river views.
Free Things to Do
Experience Kerala’s ambiance without a big budget with these easy, free options.
Sunset stroll along Fort Kochi Beach
Relaxing sunset views and a laid-back coastal vibe with scenic boats nearby.
Jew Town and Spice Market stroll (Mattancherry)
Explore colourful lanes and aromatic markets without an entry fee.
Backwaters bank-walks and village life watching
Idle time along the canal banks offers a glimpse of daily life.
Gastronomy
Kerala’s cuisine showcases coconut, seafood and rice in hearty, regional preparations.
Puttu with Kadala curry
Steamed rice cakes paired with spiced black chickpeas make for a classic Kerala breakfast.
Karimeen Polichathu (Pearl spot fish)
Pearl spot fish marinated and cooked in a tangy coconut-based gravy.
Kerala Sadya (banana leaf meal)
An array of vegetarian dishes served on a banana leaf during festivals and special occasions.
Appam with Ishtu (stew)
Fermented rice pancake paired with a fragrant coconut milk-based stew.
Nightlife
Evenings in Kochi blend relaxed cafés with cultural performances and live music.
Kathakali performances in Fort Kochi
Vivid traditional dance-drama with elaborate makeup and music.
Live music and sunset cafes (Fort Kochi)
Casual venues with local bands and breezy waterfront vibes.
Entertainment
Choose relaxed, family-friendly activities that showcase backwater life.
Houseboat cruise through the backwaters
Overnight or daytime boat trips through palm-fringed canals and lagoons.
Evening view of the Chinese Fishing Nets
Watch the nets in action as fishermen haul in their catch at dusk.
Snake boat race viewings (seasonal)
Witness traditional long-boat racing during festival periods.
Sports
Water and land-based activities let you engage with Kerala’s natural playgrounds.
Backwater kayaking
Paddle through narrow canals and serene lagoons framed by lush scenery.
Snake boat race viewing
Experience a quintessential Kerala water sport, often tied to festive seasons.
Off the Track
Go beyond the usual sights with homestays, crafts and village explorations.
Backwater village homestays
Stay with a local family and observe day-to-day life along the waterway.
Coir village visit (Alappuzha)
See traditional coir production and weaving in a rural setting.
Bike tours through backwater villages
Low-speed cycling routes that reveal hidden courtyards and bylanes.