Bilaspur to Backwaters of Kerala –Travel Guide

Introduction

The journey from Bilaspur (Chhattisgarh) to the Backwaters of Kerala is one of the most beautiful travel experiences in India. Kerala’s backwaters are a unique network of interconnected lakes, rivers, canals, lagoons, and estuaries that stretch along the Arabian Sea coast. Surrounded by lush coconut trees, green paddy fields, traditional villages, and houseboats, the backwaters offer a peaceful escape from busy city life.

Whether you are planning a family vacation, honeymoon, solo trip, or photography tour, Kerala’s backwaters provide unforgettable experiences. This guide covers everything you need to know about traveling from Bilaspur to Kerala Backwaters, including transportation, best time to visit, attractions, activities, food, budget, travel tips, and more.

Why Visit Kerala Backwaters?

A Unique Natural Wonder

Kerala’s backwaters are among India’s most famous tourist attractions. These waterways are formed by over 900 km of interconnected lakes, rivers, canals, and lagoons.

Perfect Destination for Relaxation

Unlike crowded hill stations or beaches, Kerala’s backwaters offer calm surroundings where travelers can enjoy nature, fresh air, and peaceful boat rides.

Rich Cultural Experience

Visitors can experience:

Traditional Kerala Villages

Coconut farming
Coir making
Fishing
Paddy cultivation
Local handicrafts

Authentic Kerala Lifestyle

The villages around the backwaters still preserve their traditional culture, making the journey more memorable.

How to Reach Kerala Backwaters from Bilaspur

By Air

The fastest way is by flight.

Step 1

Travel from Bilaspur to:

Raipur Airport
Swami Vivekananda Airport (Raipur)

Step 2

Take a flight to:

Kochi International Airport
Trivandrum International Airport

Step 3

Hire a taxi or take a bus to Alleppey (Alappuzha), Kumarakom, or Kollam.

Approximate travel time:

Flight: 2.5–4 hours
Road from airport: 1–2 hours

By Train

Several trains connect Chhattisgarh with Kerala.

Popular railway stations include:

Ernakulam Junction
Alappuzha Railway Station
Kottayam Railway Station

Travel time:

Approximately 32–40 hours depending on the train.

By Road

Distance:

Approximately 1,700–1,900 km

Travel time:

30–35 hours

This option is suitable for road-trip lovers who wish to explore multiple states.

Best Time to Visit Kerala Backwaters

October to March

This is the ideal season.

Temperature:

20°C–30°C

Perfect for:

Houseboat stay
Sightseeing
Photography
Family vacations

April to June

Summer season.

Temperature:

30°C–36°C

Suitable for travelers looking for budget hotel deals.

July to September

Monsoon season.

Kerala becomes incredibly green during monsoon.

Ideal for:

Nature lovers
Ayurvedic treatments
Romantic vacations

Famous Backwater Destinations

Alleppey (Alappuzha)

Known as the “Venice of the East.”

Major attractions:

Houseboat Cruise

The biggest attraction where visitors stay overnight on luxury boats.

Vembanad Lake

The largest lake in Kerala.

Alappuzha Beach

A beautiful beach near the backwaters.

Kumarakom

Located near Vembanad Lake.

Famous for:

Bird Sanctuary
Luxury resorts
Peaceful environment

Perfect for honeymoon couples.

Kollam

One of the oldest backwater destinations.

Highlights:

Long boat rides
Ashtamudi Lake
Village tourism

Kuttanad

Known as the “Rice Bowl of Kerala.”

Unique feature:

Farming below sea level.

Houseboat Experience

What is a Houseboat?

A houseboat is a traditional Kerala boat converted into a floating hotel.

Modern houseboats include:

Air-conditioned rooms
Attached bathrooms
Dining area
Private balcony
Traditional wooden interiors

Houseboat Packages

Different options are available:

Day Cruise

Duration:

5–6 hours

Ideal for short visits.

Overnight Stay

Includes:

Lunch
Evening snacks
Dinner
Breakfast

This is the most popular choice among tourists.

Luxury Houseboats

Offer:

Premium rooms
Wi-Fi
Private chef
Jacuzzi (selected boats)

Top Attractions Near Kerala Backwaters

Vembanad Lake

India’s longest lake and one of Kerala’s most scenic attractions.

Activities include:

Boating
Bird watching
Photography

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

Home to:

Kingfishers
Herons
Egrets
Siberian migratory birds

Best season:

November to February.

Pathiramanal Island

A small island surrounded by Vembanad Lake.

Perfect for:

Nature walks
Bird photography

Coconut Villages

Visitors can watch:

Coconut harvesting
Coir rope making
Traditional fishing

Things to Do

Houseboat Cruise

The signature experience of Kerala.

Canoe Ride

Explore narrow canals inaccessible to large boats.

Kayaking

Adventure lovers enjoy kayaking through peaceful waterways.

Village Walk

Meet local people and experience authentic Kerala culture.

Sunset Photography

Kerala backwaters offer spectacular sunset views.

Bird Watching

Hundreds of local and migratory birds can be spotted throughout the year.

Kerala Cuisine to Try

Appam with Stew

A soft rice pancake served with vegetable or chicken stew.

Kerala Sadya

Traditional vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf.

Fish Curry

Prepared using authentic Kerala spices.

Puttu and Kadala Curry

A popular breakfast dish.

Banana Chips

One of Kerala’s most famous snacks.

Payasam

Traditional Kerala dessert.

Shopping Near the Backwaters

Spices

Cardamom
Pepper
Cloves
Cinnamon

Coconut Products

Coconut oil
Handicrafts
Decorative items

Coir Products

Mats
Bags
Rope products

Ayurvedic Products

Kerala is famous for herbal oils and wellness products.

Estimated Budget

Budget Trip

Transportation: ₹6,000–₹12,000
Hotel: ₹1,500–₹3,000 per night
Food: ₹600–₹1,200 per day

Approximate total:

₹18,000–₹30,000 per person

Mid-Range Trip

Better hotels
Houseboat stay
Local sightseeing

Estimated cost:

₹35,000–₹60,000 per person

Luxury Trip

Including:

Luxury resort
Premium houseboat
Private cab

Estimated budget:

₹70,000–₹1,50,000+

Suggested 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Reach Kochi
Transfer to Alleppey
Local sightseeing

Day 2

Houseboat cruise
Overnight stay

Day 3

Visit Kumarakom
Bird Sanctuary
Sunset at Vembanad Lake

Day 4

Explore Kollam
Village tour
Local shopping

Day 5

Return to Kochi
Departure for Bilaspur

Essential Travel Tips

Carry Light Cotton Clothes

Kerala remains humid throughout the year.

Book Houseboats in Advance

Especially during winter and holiday seasons.

Carry Sunscreen

The tropical climate can be sunny during daytime.

Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water while traveling.

Respect Local Culture

Dress modestly while visiting temples and villages.

Keep Cash Available

Small shops and village vendors may not accept digital payments.

Try Local Cuisine

Authentic Kerala dishes enhance the travel experience.

Why Kerala Backwaters Are Special

The Kerala Backwaters are more than just a tourist destination—they represent the heart of Kerala’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. The slow-moving waters, charming villages, swaying coconut palms, luxurious houseboats, colorful sunsets, and warm hospitality create an experience unlike anywhere else in India. Whether you seek relaxation, adventure, photography, or cultural exploration, a trip from Bilaspur to the Backwaters of Kerala promises unforgettable memories.

Conclusion

Traveling from Bilaspur to the Backwaters of Kerala is a journey that combines scenic landscapes, rich traditions, delicious cuisine, and world-famous houseboat experiences. From cruising through the tranquil waters of Alleppey and exploring the bird sanctuary at Kumarakom to witnessing breathtaking sunsets over Vembanad Lake, every moment offers something unique. Plan your trip between October and March for the best weather, reserve your houseboat in advance, and immerse yourself in one of India’s most enchanting destinations. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or your partner, Kerala’s backwaters will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.