Best Day Tour from Trivandrum to Ashtamudi Lake Backwaters

Traveling through Kerala’s famed backwaters offers an authentic glimpse into the state’s peaceful waterways, vibrant culture, and lush landscapes. This full-day tour from Thiruvananthapuram to Ashtamudi Lake promises an immersive escape, combining scenic cruising, local cuisine, and cultural sights—all wrapped into a well-organized, private experience.

What makes this tour stand out? We love the opportunity to glide through Kerala’s tranquil waters, the chance to explore Munroe Island’s rural life, and the authentic Kerala lunch that’s included. The tour also offers a beautiful sunset view over the backwaters and a chance to experience traditional crafts like coir weaving.

One possible consideration is the long day’s schedule—around 12 hours—which might be a bit intense for travelers seeking a relaxed pace. However, for those eager to pack a lot into one day, this tour offers incredible value and diverse experiences.

This experience is best suited for nature lovers, cultural explorers, and photographers eager to capture Kerala’s serene scenes without sacrificing comfort. If you’re after an authentic, well-rounded taste of Kerala’s backwaters, this trip ticks many boxes.

Key Points

• Scenic backwater cruises on Ashtamudi Lake and Munroe Island canals offer peaceful and picturesque views.
• Authentic Kerala cuisine served onboard or lakeside showcases local flavors and fresh seafood.
• Canoe rides through mangroves provide unique close-up encounters with nature and rural life.
• Cultural highlights include visits to Thevally Palace and Neendakara Port, adding historical context.
• Private group experience ensures personalized attention and flexibility.
• Long but rewarding day structured for those eager to see a lot in one trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Insightful Look at the Itinerary and Experience

This tour kicks off with a morning pickup in Coimbatore, which is a bit outside Thiruvananthapuram but clearly offers travelers from nearby regions a chance to access Kerala’s backwaters. Once you’re on the road, expect a scenic 2.5-hour drive passing lush coconut plantations, small villages, and colorful countryside—an introduction to Kerala’s agrarian charm that sets the tone for the day.

The Journey to Kollam and Initial Cruise

Arriving at Kollam, the gateway to Ashtamudi Lake, you’ll begin with a scenic boat cruise across the second-largest and deepest lake in Kerala. This cruise is truly relaxing, with gentle waters, swaying palm trees, and the sight of traditional fishing nets. You might find that the calmness of the lake is perfect for photography and quiet reflection. The boat is comfortable, often with an open deck for unobstructed views, making it perfect for capturing Kerala’s natural beauty.

Munroe Island: Rural Life Unplugged

Next, the tour takes you to Munroe Island, a highlight for many travelers. Here, a guided canoe ride through narrow mangrove-lined canals offers a rare chance to see rural life up close. Reviewers mention the experience as “immersive,” with guides sharing insights about local livelihoods like coir weaving and spice cultivation. One visitor noted, “Seeing the coir weavers at work gave me a new appreciation for Kerala’s traditional crafts.”

The island’s slow pace and intricate waterways provide a peaceful environment, and you’ll get a glimpse of the everyday routines of villagers living amidst nature. The canoe trip is short but immersive, allowing you to see the mangroves and narrow channels that are so characteristic of Kerala’s backwaters.

Traditional Kerala Lunch

A significant part of the experience is the delicious Kerala meal, often served either onboard a houseboat or at a lakeside restaurant. Suppose you’re lucky; the menu will include fresh seafood or vegetarian options, featuring coconut-infused curries and local flavors. Past reviews highlight the authenticity and quality of the food, with some describing it as “a feast for the senses,” especially enjoying the side of local snacks and fresh coconut.

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Exploring Historical and Cultural Sights

Post-lunch, your guide takes you to Thevally Palace, an elegant colonial structure on the lake’s edge. This site provides a window into Kerala’s historical connection with colonial powers and local royalty. Following this, a visit to Neendakara Port introduces you to Kerala’s bustling fishing industry—colorful boats, busy markets, and local fishmongers.

If time permits, a quick stop at Thangassery Lighthouse offers panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the coastline, rounding out your cultural exploration. Many reviews mention the scenic vistas from the lighthouse as a highlight, with one visitor describing it as “the perfect spot for sunset photos.”

Sunset and Return Journey

As the day winds down, you’ll settle in at a lakeside café for tea and snacks while watching the sun dip behind the water, creating a calming end to your trip. The journey back to Thiruvananthapuram is relaxed, with most travelers feeling satisfied after a full day immersed in Kerala’s natural and cultural treasures.

Details That Matter

Transport and Timing

The tour features private transport from Coimbatore and back, ensuring comfort and flexibility. The total duration is about 12 hours, which includes travel, sightseeing, and meals. The early start allows plenty of time to soak in each experience without feeling rushed.

Group Size and Guide

Being a private group, the tour offers personalized attention, with an English-speaking guide leading the way. Reviewers appreciate the friendly, knowledgeable guides who often share interesting stories and local insights—adding depth to the experience.

Price and Value

While the exact cost isn’t specified here, the inclusion of boat cruises, canoe rides, meals, and guided sightseeing suggests this tour provides excellent value for anyone wanting a comprehensive Kerala day trip. For the price, you’re getting a well-rounded experience that combines leisure, culture, and nature—something that’s often hard to find in a single day.

Considerations

The length of the tour may be tiring for some, especially if you prefer a more relaxed pace. The early start from Coimbatore or surrounding areas could also be a factor for travelers coming from farther away. However, the convenience of a private, all-inclusive experience often outweighs these minor inconveniences.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This full-day tour offers a beautiful blend of natural scenery, cultural sights, and local flavors that captures the essence of Kerala’s backwaters. It’s perfect for those who want a detailed, authentic experience without the hassle of planning multiple activities themselves.

The boat cruises and canoe rides are genuinely peaceful moments, giving you time to relax and take in the surroundings. The authentic Kerala cuisine adds a flavorful touch that keeps you energized. Meanwhile, the visits to historical sites and fishing harbors deepen your understanding of the region’s history and livelihood.

For travelers seeking a well-organized, private journey into Kerala’s serene waterways, this tour delivers a satisfying and immersive day. It’s especially ideal for anyone eager to see a variety of sights and experience local life firsthand—all within a manageable, full-day schedule.

FAQ

How long is the drive from Coimbatore to Kollam?
The drive takes approximately 2.5 hours, passing lush greenery and small villages along the route.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes private transportation, boat cruises on Ashtamudi Lake, a canoe ride on Munroe Island, a traditional Kerala lunch, visits to Thevally Palace and Neendakara Port, and a sunset viewing.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s suitable for families, especially those interested in cultural and nature experiences. It’s a full day so some children might get tired, but overall, it’s engaging.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for boat rides and outdoor exploration, along with sun protection like hats and sunscreen, is recommended.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, the Kerala lunch can be vegetarian, with dishes featuring local spices and coconut flavors.

Can I customize the tour?
Since it’s a private group experience, some customization options could be available—discuss this with your guide or the provider beforehand.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Most activities involve boat rides and walking at sites, so accessibility options are limited. Confirm with the provider if needed.

What is the best time of year for this tour?
Kerala’s weather is generally pleasant from November to February, ideal for outdoor water activities and sightseeing.

How physically demanding is the tour?
It involves some walking and boat rides, but overall, it’s moderate. The canoe ride on Munroe Island is short but intimate.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

In sum, this tour offers a thorough, engaging introduction to Kerala’s backwaters, perfect for those who want a mix of relaxation, culture, and scenic beauty—delivered in a comfortable, private setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: