The romantic and unique Backwaters of Kerala are made up of a labyrinth of canals and lakes that stream between Cochin and Quilon in the south. From the vastness of Lake Vembanad to quiet streams just large enough for a canoe, the Backwaters form the arteries through which rural daily life calmly flows – children splashing in the water, women washing clothes at the water’s edge, fishermen, neck deep in water digging out fish with their feet, rice barges transporting coconuts and rice and, above all, an overriding sense of peace and tranquility that permeates every aspect of this region. Traditional rice barges have now been converted into houseboats which gently roam the lake, allowing one to unwind, relax, enjoy a delicious meal, read a book and simply watch the world go by. For the more adventurous, it is possible to enjoy a full or half day kayaking trip on the Backwaters, venturing into the smaller canals which the larger houseboats can’t get into.