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Kerala is home to backwaters that are extensively interconnected by lakes, canals, rivers, etc. These offer amazing opportunities for houseboat stays, scenic boat rides , and kayaking in Kerala. Kayaking is a fun activity that takes you on a small boat, called a kayak and you use a paddle to move through the water. This activity is done on calm rivers, lakes, or oceans. Kerala offers an ideal environment for this activity as well as various activities including trekking, paragliding, rock climbing, zip lining, etc.
Factors Affecting Kayaking In Kerala
Photo: Prof. Mohamed Shareef / Wikimedia Commons
Kayaking in Kerala depends on some factors that can affect your plan. You must keep in mind these factors and plan your trip accordingly:
- Water Current: Kayaking depends a lot on water currents. Very strong water current may make you lose balance and hold of the kayak.
- Temperature: Kayaking must be done at a cool and comfortable temperature. Dry and cool temperatures are ideal for kayaking in Kerala.
Types Of Kayaking
Photo: Rangakuvara / Wikimedia Commons
Kerala offers three types of Kayaking, and each differs in the type of kayak being used and the location of paddling.
Sea Kayaking:
Tourists who wish to go paddling in open waters of oceans, bays, and lakes will require a sea kayak or a touring kayak. These are small navigable boats that have a covered deck. This can be taken in the Arabian Sea, to the west of Kannur district.
Recreational Kayaking:
The kayak is used for beginner-level kayakers who just want to have a recreational trip. This type of kayaking is done in calm lakes or flat-water streams. This type of activity is majorly done here as tourists prefer taking leisure kayak trips and is done on the backwaters of Alleppey.
Whitewater Kayaking:
Whitewater kayaking is an adventurous type of kayaking wherein you paddle the kayak on a whitewater river. This type of kayaking offers the most scenic views like on the Chaliyar, also called the Chalipuzha River. This is the longest river in Kerala.
Popular Destinations For Kayaking In Kerala
Kerala offers some amazing destinations for kayaking. These places are ideal for this activity and offer the best experience. Some of the popular destinations in Kerala are
1. Alleppey Backwater Village
Photo: Harvinder Chandigarh / Wikimedia Commons
Alleppey Backwaters is a very famous backwater destination in Kerala for kayaking. This is a famous place for kayaking through rivers and canals. People visit this place for recreational and professional kayaking. It is an ideal place for fun and entertainment. Different tours are operating in Alleppy depending on the amount of time the tourist has to spare. Take a private guided kayaking tour in Alleppy to enjoy the scenic beauty of the calm surroundings, nature, and local villages.
Timings: 6:30 AM – 10:30 AM ; 2 PM – 6 PM
Cost: ₹800 – ₹1500 per kayak
Duration: 6 – 10 hours
2. Paravur Backwaters
Photo: Arunvrparavur / Wikimedia Commons
If you are looking to kayak on an offbeat path, then Paravur Backwaters is the right place. This is a lesser-known area which is why its beauty is untouched. It is an ideal place for quiet pedalling as it is a sheltered waterbody. There is no motorboat engaged in fishing around, hence there is no chance of losing orientation while kayaking. This unique place offers breathtaking views of the nearby nature. The kayaking centre is beautifully located on a tiny sandbar that separates the Arabian Sea and Paravur Backwaters.
Timings: 6:30 AM – 3 PM
Cost: ₹1400 onwards
Duration: 45 – 60 minutes
3. Kochi
Photo: Firosnv. Photography / Unsplash
Kochi is one of the most famous places in Kerala for Kayaking. It attracts a significant number of tourists due to its serene backwaters and beautiful islands. Kadamakudy is one such isolated island in Kochi that offers Kayaking. It is the ideal and quaint place, away from crowds and home to migratory birds. You can kayak through narrow waterways at your own sweet pace while enjoying the surrounding scenic beauty. You can also closely explore the lush mangrove forests and try your hand at local fishing techniques.
Timings: 7 AM – 6 PM
Cost: ₹1100 per adult
Duration: 2 hours
4. Ashtamudi Lake
Photo: Rahul Pariharacodu / Wikimedia Commons
Ashtamudi Lake is a beautiful vast lake known for its peaceful atmosphere. It is aesthetically located surrounded by lush green forests. It is also the largest palm-shaped body in Kerala, offering one of the best kayaking experiences to tourists. The activity starts here with a nao kayak boat with a maximum seating of two people. On it, you can explore the gorgeous backwaters at a slow pace. Tourists must try kayaking here for a peaceful experience.
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
Cost: ₹500 – ₹3000 per person
Duration: 2 hours
5. Vembanad Lake
Photo: Ashish Sharma / Wikimedia Commons
Kayaking in Vembanad Lake offers a very unique experience as it offers the best scenic beauty and biodiversity. It is India’s longest lake, surrounded by lush greenery and picturesque landscapes. This place offers one of the best kayaking experiences due to its stunning backdrop. You can also explore the varied flora and fauna here, as you may encounter various species of fish, birds, etc. while kayaking. The narrow place you pass from gives you a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
Cost: ₹800 to ₹1500 per person
Duration: 3 – 6 hours
6. Chalakudy River
Photo: Jan J George / Wikimedia Commons
Chalakudy River is the fifth longest river in Kerala. It is a prominent rafting and kayaking destination in Kerala. It offers thrilling rapids and scenic surroundings. The twists and turns offered here while kayaking offer a thrilling experience. The lush green surroundings and rocky outcrops surround the river. Tourists will get an adrenaline rush while kayaking in the rapids here. Moreover, the river is rich in marine diversity and you may spot some exotic fish species as well.
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
Cost: ₹500 – ₹1500 per person
Duration: 1 – 2 hours
7. Periyar River
Photo: Challiyan / Wikimedia Commons
Kayaking in Periyar River lets you experience the natural side of Kerala. The main attraction of this kayak route is the hanging bridge, which is considered the longest suspension bridge in Kerala. The kayaks navigate through dense jungles that seem like navigating through the labyrinth. Tourists visit this place for its untouched green beauty and serene experience. The countryside charm while kayaking can be felt best here. You may also spot diverse wildlife from the kayak including birds and even elephants taking baths along the river’s edge.
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM
Cost: ₹1000 per person
Duration: 2 hours
8. Meenachil River
Photo: Praveenp / Wikimedia Commons
Meenachil River is an ideal spot for kayaking in Kerala. The gentle waters of this river are surrounded by lush green landscapes. Tourists find this place very relaxing, offering one of the best kayaking experiences. Kayaking helps you explore this place and observe its flora and fauna. Passing through this channel slowly rejuvenates the soul. You must try kayaking here during your Kerala trip and witness nature’s magic.
Timings: 10 AM – 4 PM
Cost: ₹100 – ₹500 per person
Duration: 1 – 2 hours
9. Kollam
Photo: Joseph Jayanth / Wikimedia Commons
Kollam is another fantastic spot to experience kayaking. This is because the place has spectacular scenery, quiet backwaters, clean palm-lined beaches, and lush tea plantations. It offers the real and true beauty of Kerala. Kayaking through this natural backdrop relaxes the mind and soul. Kollam is aesthetically located on the banks of Ashtamudi Lake, withLakshadweep Sea on the other side. While Kayaking in these waters you can also closely witness the lives of the local people living around in the villages.
Timings: 8:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Cost: ₹850 per person
Duration: 4 hours
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Md shahanshah bappy / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The best time for kayaking in Kerala is in winter, i.e. from November to February. The weather during these months is mild and very pleasant, ideal for kayaking. Although the recreational tours are available all through the year, Whitewater Kayaking can be done from June to September when the monsoon is in full bloom in Kerala.
Tips For Travellers
Photo: Rune Haugseng / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Tourists who want to do kayaking in Kerala must keep the following points in mind:
- For whitewater kayaking, you will need formal training at a kayaking school.
- Avoid kayaking in extreme weather conditions.
- Always wear safety gear during your kayak trip.
- Keep a waterproof cover for your mobiles and camera.
- Always have a buddy while kayaking.
Kayaking is a fun and thrilling activity that offers calm and great views of the surroundings. This is a unique way to explore the state’s renowned backwaters. You will get to appreciate the marvel and charm of the excellent pristine waters and unmatched skies. This recreational activity is mostly preferred by the tourists. So, plan a holiday with TripXL and witness the real natural beauty of Kerala.
Cover Photo: Tripjodi / Wikimedia Commons
