Five large lakes, all linked by man-made and natural canals, create a watery world in the southern Indian state of Kerala. The waterways are fed by nearly 40 rivers.
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Kumarakorn Lake Resort —
Prince Charles and wife Camilla recently visited Kumarakorn Lake Resort to celebrate his 65th birthday.
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Houseboat cruises —
Companies such as Spice Coast Cruises offer overnight journeys through the backwaters on traditional houseboats.
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Bird-watching —
Kerala's backwaters are a dream destination for bird watchers. The kingfisher stands out among many avian attractions.
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Duck farming —
Forget the farmhouse. Duck farmers in Kerala need to be afloat to tend to their flocks.
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Open river —
It looks peaceful now. But wait until one of Kerala's municipal passenger boats roars through.
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No average home stay —
Emerald Isle Heritage Villa, the ancestral home of brothers Vinod and Vijo Job, offers accommodation in a traditional setting among paddy fields and coconut groves.
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Kerala by kettuvallam —
Spice Coast Cruses' boats are run on solar power and fueled by vegetable oil.
