INDIA: Relaxing in the Backwaters of Kerala

The backwaters of Kerala are a vast network of interconnected canals, lakes, rivers and lagoons that stretch along the eastern Malabar Coast.

The tranquil waterways span over 900 kilometers and provide a unique ecosystem that supports both human and wildlife habitation.

The surrounding landscape is dotted with lush coconut groves, paddy fields and traditional villages.

Life moves at a much slower pace.

 

The houseboats (kettuvallams) were originally used for transporting rice and spices but have now been converted into floating homes with modern amenities.

Floating peacefully down the waterways it felt like we were seeing "behind the scenes" of life in Kerala.

 

 

 

About the only sound that disrupted the peace and quiet was the “thwack” of laundry. 

People wash clothes in the shallow waters of the backwaters using traditional methods of hand scrubbing and beating clothes against large rocks or wooden boards.

 

 

But even that could not disrupt the peacefulness experienced in the backwaters.

 

 

Definitely a highlight.