Kuttanad is known as the “rice bowl of Kerala” because of the large number of paddy fields that are cultivated here. This is one of the many places in Kerala where there is an abundance of natural and scenic beauty. The place is a perfect synchrony of the mountains and seas. Though Kerala’s most famous backwaters are located at Alappuzha, Kuttanad too is slowly making rapid progress in the tourism sector and is becoming one of the most sought after tourist destinations of the state.

Kuttanad backwaters are located at a distance of 75km from Kollam and are found towards the south of the Kochi district. The waters are adorned with small rivulets, canals, rivers and lakes all over, adding beauty to the already mesmerising place. A canopy of green cover greets the backwaters and as you take a ride along the houseboat, you cannot help but wonder at God’s creation. The greenery all over, placid blue waters of Kuttanad, richness of paddy fields, gentle swaying of the houseboat, mist-capped blue peaks at the backdrop and the generous growth of coconut and palm groves make your experience truly unforgettable. You will surely cherish these moments in your life, long after you are gone from the place.

How to Reach

By Air

Kuttanad is just a couple of hours’ drive away from the Cochin international airport, which is the nearest airport to the place.

By Rail

Alappuzha railway junction is the nearest to Kuttanad.

By Road

Alappuzha district, in which Kuttanad backwaters are situated, is well-connected to all parts of Kerala and neighbouring states through state-run and private sector-run buses.

Climatic Conditions and Best time to Visit

Kuttanad has a reasonable climate all through the year. During summers, the maximum temperature goes up to 35 degrees Celsius. The minimum temperature during winters is around 22 degrees Celsius. The place receives a healthy amount of rainfall every year, with the average annual rainfall measuring about 250mm. The best time to visit Kuttanad is the period between December and March. This is when the climate is reasonably cold and pleasant.

Cruises from Kuttanad

There are cruises from Kuttanad to places like Chavara Bhavan, Chamapkkulam Church and the Kzarumadikuttan Statue regularly, for the benefit of tourists. In addition to this, cruise packages from Kuttanad can be availed, to places like Alappuzha, Kumarakom and Cochin.

Prime Attractions

Vembanad Lake, the biggest lake in the state of Kerala is one of the must-see places near Kuttanad. The world famous Nehru Boat race is conducted on this lake. Some of the other tourist spots near Kuttanad are – Krishnapuram Palace (18th century palace constructed during Marthanda Verma’s rule and the place where one of Kerala’s biggest mural paintings, Gajendra Moksham is stored), Ambalappuzha (temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, where the pal payasam Prasad is highly famous), Karumadi (9th century black granite statue of Karumadi Kuttan or Buddha), Punnapra (rural area which witnessed lots of fights), Pathiramanal (island in the Vembanad Lake), Vijaya Beach Park (where children’s park and boating facilties are there), Sea View Park (Boating and swimming facilities), Chavara Bhavan (sacred place of worship), Alappuzha Beach, Mannarshala Shree Nagaraja Temple, Chettikulangara Bhagavathy temple, Edathua Church and the St. Sebastain’s Church.