🚢 Kollam Backwaters
Cruise through the serene Ashtamudi Lake — Kerala’s most enchanting backwater experience connecting Kollam to Alleppey
🛶 Houseboat Cruises
🌿 Canal Networks
🐟 Fishing Villages
🌅 Sunset Cruises
🛶 Top Backwater Experiences
Houseboat Cruises
Overnight or day houseboat stays on the Ashtamudi Lake. Traditional kettuvallam (rice boats) converted into luxury floating cottages with full board meals and AC cabins.
Canoe Village Tours
Explore narrow village canals by country boat or canoe. Glide past coconut groves, coir-making villages, and local life untouched by tourism.
Kollam–Alleppey Cruise
The 8-hour ATDC boat cruise departing 10:30 AM daily. Passes through Kottapuram Fortress ruins, Alumkadavu, and scores of picturesque villages.
Fishing Village Visits
Watch traditional Chinese fishing nets (cheena vala) in action and buy fresh seafood directly from fishermen at the ghats around Ashtamudi Lake.
📍 Key Backwater Spots Near Kollam
| Location | Distance from Kollam | Best For | Entry |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ashtamudi Lake Ghat | 2 km (city centre) | Boat rides, sunset views | Free |
| Munroe Island | 28 km | Canoe tours, village life | Boat fee |
| Krishnapuram Palace Lake | 47 km | Heritage + backwaters | ₹30 |
| Alumkadavu | 18 km | Houseboat building yard | Free |
| Alleppey (Alappuzha) | 85 km by boat | Full backwater circuit | Cruise fare |
🌿 Munroe Island — Hidden Gem
Munroe Island (Munroethuruth) is a cluster of 8 islands at the confluence of Kallada River and Ashtamudi Lake. Named after British Resident Colonel John Munroe, this tranquil island offers the most authentic backwater experience — narrow canals, coir retting, prawn farming, and warm village hospitality. Best explored by country boat or kayak in the early morning.
🚢 Plan Your Backwater Journey
Book cruises, houseboats and explore all attractions around Kollam’s legendary waterways