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The lush green flora, coconut palm-fringed beaches, golden sands, and exotic backwaters of Kerala make it one of the popular holiday destinations. Beyond the picture-perfect scenery lies a world of thrilling water sports in Kerala. The enviable coastline lures you with a multitude of experiences that cater to every adventurer’s spirit. Whether you are a seasoned water enthusiast or a curious beginner, Kerala’s aquatic adventures have something to offer for everyone.
Factors That Affect Water Sports
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Before getting ready for a splashy adventure, take your time to understand the multiple factors that can change your experience in Kerala:
Popular Water Sports Destinations In Kerala
The various types of water sports vary with the destinations. Here are some of the best places to experience a thrilling water adventure in Kerala:
1. Houseboat Cruising
Photo: Kv Gopalakrishnan / Wikimedia Commons
Houseboat cruising offers a unique way for tourists to explore the enchanting backwaters of Alappuzha. These traditional houseboats, known as “kettuvallams,” provide a leisurely journey through serene waterways lined with lush greenery and quaint villages. Houseboats come with well-appointed bedrooms, a dining area, and a sun deck. Pricing varies, ranging from INR 5,000 to INR 15,000 per night, depending on the amenities and duration. Most houseboat operators provide experienced guides and staff to ensure a comfortable and informative journey. They cater to both short day trips and overnight stays, offering a blend of luxury and rustic charm.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Location: Alappuzha
Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Aluva
2. Kayaking
Photo: Tripjodi / Wikimedia Commons
Alleppey is called the “Venice of the East,” which offers an immersive experience. Paddling through narrow canals and serene lagoons, kayakers get an up-close view of the lush landscape and local village life. This activity is also popular in places like Kumarakom and Kollam. Kayaking tours range from short excursions to full-day adventures, with prices starting at INR 1,000 per person for a few hours. Beginners can join guided tours that include basic instruction, while experienced kayakers can rent equipment for self-guided explorations.
Best Time To Visit: November to February
Location: Alleppey
3. Bamboo Rafting
Photo: Darshika28 / Wikimedia Commons
Periyar Lake is located within the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary in Thekkady. Bamboo rafting allows visitors to glide silently over the lake’s tranquil waters, surrounded by dense forests and the possibility of spotting wildlife such as elephants, deer, and various bird species. Guides, trained by the forest department, accompany each group to ensure safety and provide informative commentary on the flora and fauna. Bamboo rafting tours typically last around three to four hours, with prices starting at INR 2,000 per person. This fee often includes the cost of a forest entry permit and the services of the guide.
Best Time To Visit: October to February
Location: Periyar Lake
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Kerala In May
4. Snorkelling
Photo: Georgeumartin / Wikimedia Commons
Kerala’s underwater world is renowned for its vibrant marine life and clear waters. The crescent-shaped beaches, particularly Lighthouse Beach, are ideal for snorkelling. Kovalam’s calm and shallow waters make it suitable for both beginners and experienced snorkelers. Guided snorkelling tours are available, with professional instructors ensuring safety and providing necessary equipment, including masks, snorkels, and fins. Prices for a guided session start at INR 1,500 per person.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Location: Kovalam
5. Scuba Diving
Photo: Ayden Zaki / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Kerala’s underwater treasures await scuba diving enthusiasts. The region is known for its clear waters and diverse marine life, including colourful coral reefs and schools of fish. Varkala’s dive sites cater to both beginners and experienced divers. Professional dive centres provide PADI certification courses, guided dives, and all necessary equipment. Beginners can get excellent assistance from instructors for an enjoyable diving experience. A typical introductory dive session costs around INR 3,500 to INR 5,000 per person.
Best Time To Visit: October to February
Location: Varkala
Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Varkala
6. Parasailing
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Tourists can enjoy the scenic coastline from above when they choose parasailing. The activity provides a bird’s-eye view of the Arabian Sea and the city’s picturesque shores of Kochi. It is also popular in destinations like Kovalam and Varkala. Prices for a parasailing session typically range from INR 2,000 to INR 3,500 per person, depending on the duration and location. Those looking for an adrenaline rush while enjoying Kerala’s coastal beauty will find parasailing an excellent choice.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Location: Kochi
7. Wind Surfing
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Varkala enables exhilarating windsurfing as you harness the power of wind and waves. Tourists can master the art of balancing by manoeuvring their windsurfing board against the backdrop of a beautiful coastal area. The cost of windsurfing in Kerala starts from INR 1,000 per person, and it could go up to INR 2,500, including instructor fees and equipment rental. It is also available on the beaches of Kochi.
Best Time To Visit: October to February
Location: Varkala
Suggested Read: Hill Stations In Kottayam
8. Canoeing
Photo: Spencer Gurley Films / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Compared to other water sports, canoeing provides a peaceful yet adventurous way to explore Kerala’s natural beauty. The Periyar River, flowing through the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, offers scenic views and the chance to spot wildlife. Canoeing is also popular in locations like Alleppey and Kumarakom. Prices for guided canoeing trips start at around INR 1,000 per person. These tours often include equipment rental and a brief training session for beginners. The calm waters and lush surroundings make canoeing an ideal activity for nature lovers and bird watchers.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Location: Periyar River
9. Jet Skiing
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Nothing can give you the adrenaline rush like Jet Skiing. The island’s pristine beaches and calm seas provide ideal conditions for this high-speed water sport. It is also popular in Kovalam and Varkala—prices for a jet skiing session range from INR 1,500 to INR 3,000 per person. The thrill of speeding across the water, combined with the scenic beauty of Poovar Island, makes jet skiing a popular choice for adventure seekers.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Location: Poovar Island
Suggested Read: Beaches In Kerala
10. Catamaran Sailing
Photo: David McElwee / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Visitors can enjoy an authentic experience with catamaran sailing. A catamaran is a type of boat with two parallel hulls, which provides a stable and smooth sailing experience. This activity is also available in destinations like Kovalam and Varkala. The serene waters of Alappuzha, combined with the gentle movement of the catamaran, create a relaxing and scenic experience. It’s an ideal activity for those looking to unwind while taking in the picturesque surroundings.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Location: Alappuzha
Kerala’s coastline, with consistent waves, serene backwaters, and vibrant underwater, is a haven for water enthusiasts. The diverse water bodies offer some of the best experiences for water sports in Kerala. Tourists can experience the tranquillity of gliding on traditional houseboats or enjoy an adrenaline rush zipping across the turquoise waters on a speedboat by booking your trip with TripXL.
Cover Photo: Ingo Mehling / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
