Family Adventure in the Kerala Backwaters

Drifting Through Kerala's Waterways

Today was all about immersing ourselves in the tranquil beauty of the Kerala backwaters. Leaving the hustle of city life behind, Lena, Sophia, and I set out to explore the serene canals and islands that define this unique region. It's amazing how quickly the landscape transforms, and I was eager to capture every moment with my camera. I've always found solace in nature, and the backwaters seemed like the perfect place to reconnect with that part of myself, especially with my family by my side.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Cheenavala Restaurant. I opted for a traditional Kerala breakfast, while Lena and Sophia enjoyed some familiar continental options. It's always interesting to see how different cultures approach the first meal of the day. I made a mental note to try and recreate some of the dishes back in Berlin; Lena would certainly appreciate a taste of India at home. The restaurant itself had a charming, rustic vibe, which really set the tone for the day.


Discover the authentic taste of Kerala at Cheenavala Restaurant, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.

After breakfast, we headed towards Thottappally Backwaters. The drive itself was scenic, with lush greenery on either side of the road. Once we arrived, we hopped on a traditional boat and began our journey through the waterways. The experience was incredibly peaceful; the gentle lapping of water against the boat, the swaying coconut trees, and the occasional glimpse of village life along the banks created a mesmerizing tableau. Sophia was particularly fascinated by the birds, pointing and chattering excitedly every time she spotted one. I tried my best to identify them, but my bird knowledge is admittedly limited. I'll have to brush up on my ornithology before our next nature adventure.


Experience the enchanting beauty and tranquility of Thottappally Backwaters, a hidden gem in Kerala's serene landscapes.

The beauty of the backwaters lies not just in its scenery, but in the tranquility it offers, a chance to slow down and appreciate the simple rhythms of life.

Next on our itinerary was Munroe Island Canal, often called the 'Hidden Venice of India'. The island is named after Colonel John Munroe, a British resident who contributed to the development of the area by digging canals and joining several backwater regions. We took a canal cruise, which offered a unique perspective on the island's rural life and natural beauty. We chose a traditional wooden boat, rowed by a local who also served as our guide. The canals were narrow, and at times, the vegetation seemed to close in around us, creating a sense of being in a hidden world. It was fascinating to see the locals going about their daily routines, seemingly undisturbed by the presence of tourists. Sophia was especially intrigued by the fishermen casting their nets, and she peppered our guide with questions about their catch.


Discover the serene backwaters of Munroe Island Canal in Kerala, a perfect spot for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts seeking an authentic experience.

For lunch, we stopped at the Backwater Cafe, a charming little eatery with a relaxed atmosphere. The cafe is known for its delicious food and variety of dishes, including seafood options. We tried some local delicacies, including shrimp roast and karimeen pollichathu (fish marinated in spices and grilled in banana leaf). The flavors were bold and vibrant, a testament to the region's rich culinary heritage. Sophia, surprisingly, enjoyed the fish, although she did ask for a side of fries to balance out the spiciness.


Discover authentic Kerala flavors at Backwater Cafe, where every meal is a journey through local culinary traditions amidst stunning natural beauty.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to The Sky Bar for a pre-dinner drink. The bar offered stunning views of the backwaters, and we watched as the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. It was the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploration. I savored a local beer while Lena enjoyed a glass of wine, and Sophia sipped on a fruit juice, all of us enjoying the view.


Experience stunning sunset views and exquisite grilled delicacies at The Sky Bar in Kovalam, Kerala's premier coastal retreat.

Dinner was at Vasundhara Sarovar Premiere, a luxurious hotel known for its excellent cuisine. The restaurant offered a wide range of dishes, and we opted for a mix of Indian and international flavors. The food was exquisite, and the service impeccable. It was a fitting end to a day of indulgence.


Discover tranquility at Vasundhara Sarovar Premiere: A luxurious resort hotel nestled in the breathtaking backwaters of Kerala.

Before heading back to our accommodation, we took a leisurely stroll around the hotel grounds. The property was beautifully maintained, with lush gardens and a serene ambiance. It was the kind of place where you could easily lose yourself in the moment, forgetting about the stresses of everyday life. I made a mental note to consider staying here on our next visit to the backwaters.

As I sit here, reflecting on the day's adventures, I feel a sense of contentment wash over me. The Kerala backwaters have a way of slowing you down, of making you appreciate the simple things in life. It's a reminder that sometimes, the best experiences are the ones that aren't planned, the ones that unfold organically as you go along.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Kochareekkal Caves and Kadamakudy Backwaters. I'm particularly excited about exploring the caves; I've always been fascinated by geology and ancient formations. And of course, I'm looking forward to more delicious Kerala cuisine. Perhaps I'll even try my hand at making some dosas; Lena and Sophia would surely appreciate that.

Good night from Kerala!