Backwaters refers to the large inland lakes consisting entire networks of lakes, canals estuaries and curious water formation. The backwaters of Kerala stretch over 1900 KM, providing water for drinking and irrigation fields. Vembanad Lake is the most important of the west coast canal system has a length of 84 KM and an average breadth of 3 KM. It covers an area of 204 Sq KM. To the knowledge of a common traveller, Alleppey is better known for the backwaters and there are almost everyone to prefer a night stay in the houseboat. A round trip, in which you board the boat here and disembark at scheduled place after having spent the night in the tranquility of the backwaters. There are many interesting routes to cruise on the backwaters of Kerala, each route is more enchanting than the other. Alappuzha to Alappuzha is a one night roundabout cruise which takes you through the renowned Vembanad lake. Alappuzha to Kumarakom is an another route where a night stay with cruise offers a magical day. Water birds, both residents and migratory adorn the canals and waterways. The water lilies when seen in the night dazzle like the twinkling stars in a dark sky. Fishing people add to the magic with their imaginative ways of fishing. A cruise from Alappuzha through these backwaters tantalizes you with its breathtaking serenity to remain as the most beautiful reminiscences of your life. See the toddy tappers at work and farming done at below sea level.