Kerala’s inland waterways are redefining travel experiences along the western coast, offering visitors a truly immersive way to explore the state’s natural beauty. This landmark water tourism project introduces a seamless cruising experience where houseboats, tourist boats, passenger ferries, and kayaking routes connect Kerala’s canals, rivers, and backwaters into one continuous journey.
For travelers seeking authentic Kerala sightseeing, this integrated waterway is a first of its kind in India. Man-made canals are intelligently linked with natural rivers and backwaters, creating a scenic blue highway that highlights Kerala’s identity as “God’s Own Country.”
The First Phase of Kerala’s West Coast Inland Waterway
The first operational phase covers 280 kilometers, stretching from Akulam in Thiruvananthapuram to Chettuva in Thrissur. This route passes through key tourism districts including Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Alappuzha, Ernakulam, and Thrissur—home to Kerala’s most iconic backwaters, villages, and cultural landscapes.
When fully completed, the waterway will extend from Kovalam to Bekal, spanning 616 kilometers and becoming one of India’s longest inland water tourism corridors—ideal for long-distance cruises, luxury houseboat journeys, and experiential travel.
Engineering Excellence Meets Kerala’s Natural Beauty
The route flows through 39 rivers, lagoons, and backwater systems, supported by well-designed canals with an average width of 25 meters and a depth of around 2 meters. These specifications allow smooth navigation and faster travel, including the Akulam–Varkala stretch covered in under 40 minutes by speed boat.
Eight modern boat jetties enhance accessibility along the route. Varkala’s historic tunnel area is being developed into a unique water tourism attraction, supported by newly launched tourist boats designed for comfort and safety.
Sustainable Kerala Tourism & Local Experiences
Sustainability plays a central role in this project. Electric solar-powered boats, each carrying up to 20 passengers, offer a quiet and eco-friendly way to enjoy Kerala’s waterways while preserving its delicate aquatic ecosystems.
This initiative also strengthens local economies. Traditional food stalls, handicraft markets, village tourism activities, and cultural experiences along the canal banks create employment opportunities and add authentic value to every journey.
Experience Kerala Backwaters with Keralatourpackages.net
Keralatourpackages.net offers carefully curated Kerala tour packages that include inland waterway cruises, luxury houseboat stays, honeymoon escapes, and customized sightseeing itineraries. Whether you’re planning a romantic Kerala honeymoon, a family holiday, or a luxury backwater cruise, our experts design journeys that showcase Kerala from its most beautiful perspective—its waterways.
More than a boat ride, this is a journey through Kerala’s living heritage—where rivers tell stories, canals connect cultures, and every bend reveals a new landscape best experienced with trusted local expertise.