Family Adventure in the Kerala Backwaters

Finding Peace on the Kerala Backwaters

Today was a day of tranquil exploration and culinary delights as we continued our journey through the Kerala Backwaters. The serene beauty of Kumarakom and the flavors of local cuisine provided a perfect blend of relaxation and cultural immersion. It's days like these that remind me why we embarked on this adventure in the first place – to slow down, connect with nature, and savor the simple joys of life with Lena and Sophia.


Explore the breathtaking Kumarakom Backwaters, a serene haven of nature in Kerala, known for its stunning landscapes and unforgettable houseboat experiences.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Pearlspot Restaurant in Kumarakom. I opted for a traditional Kerala breakfast of appam and stew, while Lena enjoyed some fresh fruit and yogurt, and Sophia, of course, went straight for the pancakes. The restaurant had a welcoming ambiance and the staff were very friendly. It was the perfect start to a day of exploration. I made sure to try the seafood soup and coconut shrimp, which were highly recommended.


Discover delightful flavors at Pearlspot Restaurant in Kumarakom—where family-friendly dining meets stunning backwater views.

After breakfast, we set out to explore the Kumarakom backwaters. We boarded a traditional houseboat, a *kettuvallam*, and began our leisurely cruise through the intricate network of waterways. The scenery was simply breathtaking – lush green paddy fields, swaying coconut trees, and vibrant birdlife all around. Sophia was particularly excited, pointing out the different birds she spotted along the way. I tried my hand at some photography, attempting to capture the essence of this tranquil paradise.

The Kerala Backwaters are more than just a scenic destination; they are a living, breathing ecosystem that offers a glimpse into a simpler way of life.

As we cruised along, we passed by local villages and witnessed the daily life of the people who call these backwaters home. We saw fishermen casting their nets, women washing clothes in the river, and children playing cricket on the banks. It was a humbling experience to see how these communities live in harmony with nature, relying on the backwaters for their sustenance and livelihood. I couldn’t help but reflect on our own lives back in Berlin, so different from the slow, deliberate pace of life here.

Around midday, we stopped for lunch at Venattukad in the Alleppey backwaters. This restaurant was nestled right on the water's edge, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. We indulged in a delicious spread of Kerala cuisine, including fish curry, rice, and an array of vegetable dishes. The flavors were rich and authentic, a testament to the region's culinary heritage. Sophia, surprisingly, enjoyed the fish curry, declaring it her favorite dish of the trip so far.


Experience family-friendly adventures in Venattukad - Kerala's enchanting backwaters await your exploration.

After lunch, we continued our cruise towards Thanneermukkom-Vembanad Lagoon View Point. This scenic spot offered panoramic views of the vast Vembanad Lake, the largest lake in Kerala. We disembarked and took a leisurely stroll along the bund, taking in the breathtaking scenery. The air was fresh and the atmosphere was serene, a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. I captured some stunning photos of the lake and the surrounding landscape, hoping to preserve the memory of this idyllic place.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Vembanad Lake at Thanneermukkom-Vembanad Lagoon View Point in Kerala, a serene escape for nature lovers.

As the sun began to set, we made our way back to Kumarakom. The sky was ablaze with color, casting a golden glow over the backwaters. It was a magical moment, one that I will cherish forever. Lena, Sophia, and I sat in comfortable silence, simply soaking in the beauty of our surroundings. I felt a deep sense of gratitude for this opportunity to experience the wonders of Kerala with my family.

Before heading back to our accommodation, we decided to stop by the Half Moon Lounge Bar for a relaxing evening drink. The bar had a laid-back vibe and a good selection of beverages. I opted for a local beer, while Lena enjoyed a glass of wine, and Sophia sipped on a refreshing juice. We sat on the outdoor terrace, enjoying the cool evening breeze and reflecting on the day's adventures. The Half Moon Lounge Bar provided a chill atmosphere, a great place to relax after a day of exploring.


Discover the vibrant taste of Kochi at Half Moon Lounge Bar, a perfect blend of delicious grills and refreshing drinks.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we plan to visit the Kumbalangi Kavaru Spot and the Pentagon Lighthouse in Valiyazheekkal. I’m particularly excited about the lighthouse, as I’ve always been fascinated by these maritime beacons. We'll start the day with breakfast at Cheenavala Restaurant, followed by lunch at Kebab Ki Dukaan at Club Mahindra Cherai Beach Resort, and dinner at Lucka'S Open Restaurant. I'm also hoping to do some shopping at Sarayu Fashions, as Lena has been wanting to pick up some local textiles.

As I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel a sense of contentment. Today was a day of simple pleasures, of connecting with nature and with each other. The Kerala Backwaters have a way of slowing you down, of reminding you to appreciate the beauty that surrounds you. I am grateful for this experience, and I look forward to what tomorrow brings.

This trip has been a fantastic opportunity to share new experiences with Lena and Sophia. It's moments like these that strengthen our bond and create lasting memories. I’m also grateful that I remembered to pack the camera, even though I forgot the insect repellent and power adapter. Note to self: always double-check the essentials!

The thought of returning to Berlin and my work at the travel tech startup is a bit daunting after experiencing such tranquility. However, I know that the memories and lessons learned here will stay with me long after we leave. Perhaps I can even incorporate some of these experiences into my Evendo blog, sharing the beauty and serenity of the Kerala Backwaters with a wider audience. Until tomorrow, *namaste* from Kerala!

Traditional Snake Boat Races

I learned today that if we had been here in August or September, we could have witnessed the Kumarakom Sri Narayana Guru Jayanthi Boat Race, a vibrant and culturally significant event on the backwaters. This traditional *vallamkali* (boat race) honors the birth anniversary of Sri Narayana Guru, a great social reformer. The calm waters of Vembanad Lake provide the perfect setting for the race, where traditional snake boats (*chundan vallams*) glide gracefully, propelled by hundreds of skilled oarsmen. The event is not just about competition but also a celebration of Kerala's unity, teamwork, and devotion. Each boat is a symbol of heritage, with its unique design and meticulous preparation. The accompanying music and cheers create an electrifying atmosphere. The event also coincides with temple rituals and cultural programs, adding spiritual depth to the festivities. I'm adding this to my list for a future visit!

Houseboats of Kumarakom

I also found out some interesting facts about the houseboats we enjoyed today. The houseboats of Kumarakom are made using an ancient boat building technique that's eco-friendly. They use natural fibers made from coconut husks and coat them with resin to make them watertight. The upper structure is typically painted in bright colors like yellow or orange, with a contrasting black or dark base, making it pop against the green backdrop of the backwaters. The roof is made from woven bamboo or palm leaves, adding to that rustic charm. The railings are often made of wood or metal and are both functional and decorative, ensuring safety while adding to the overall aesthetic.

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

I learned that just a short distance from where we had breakfast at Pearlspot Restaurant is the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, a vibrant hub of rare and numerous avian species. Sprawling across 14 hectares and sitting by the banks of the river Vembanad, it is a must-see for bird enthusiasts. This lakeside bird sanctuary has an established trail system known for its domestic and migratory species.