Kayaking In Kerala
Kayaking can be enjoyed on the serene backwaters of Kerala. A kayak is a small boat that serves one or two persons, actuated by paddled oars. It is a significant water sport in Kerala and has earned laurels both nationally and internationally.
The exotic backwaters never fail to cast a spell on the visitors, making Kerala among the most stunning kayaking destinations in India. Alappuzha (earlier known as Alleppey), is an ideal kayaking destination. It serves as the hub of kayaking in Kerala and here kayaking through the palm-fringed waterways is an excellent opportunity to experience village life in close quarters.
Muziris
An ancient seaport on the Malabar Coast, Muziris has been important for India’s trade relations with Egyptians, Persians, Romans, 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 in 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.
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 make Kuttanad a perfect spot for adventure camping.
While you can spend your days in the peaceful backwaters 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.
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. km. 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 an 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 a kayaking/camping experience, the popular stops include Munnar, Thannikudy, Mullaperiyar, Idukki, and Neriamangalam (Ernakulum).
River Pamba
The third longest river in the state, Pamba passes through the Alappuzha District. The origin of 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 is based around Kuttanad and takes 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 Kuttanad by Ferry & port. Kuttanad is also well connected by state and national highways.
