KERALA BACKWATERS RIVER CRUISES

Worlds Best River Cruise Suite 2023 Winner Conde Nast 2023 Best River Cruise Operator Winner
TripAdvisor Travellers Choice TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence

The Kerala backwaters are a network of lagoons and canals lying parallel to the Arabian Sea of the Malabar coast of Kerala state in south-western India. A network of lakes and rivers form a labyrinthine system with more than 900 km (560 mi) of waterways.

In the midst of this wondrous landscape there are a number of towns and cities with a culture unique to the backwaters. Whilst the Arabs brought Islam in the 7th century, Kerala, or Malabar as it was once known, had been visited by St Thomas the Apostle in 52AD and has had a strong Christian minority with many fine old churches, later embellished by the Portuguese in the 16th century. There is no shortage of impressive Hindu shrines.

The Kerala people are highly industrious, and artisanal workshops abound. Boatyards provide a fascinating insight into traditional craftmanship and one of the joys of exploring the backwaters is to see Keralan life at first hand.

Terns, kingfishers, darters and cormorants abound whilst otters and turtles can be spotted along the verdant banks lined by lush palm trees and leafy vegetation.

Kerelan cuisine is rich in fish and seafood and will be a feature of any expedition on the Kochi Pandaw.

Longer Expeditions

River Cruise itinerary for The Kerala Backwaters River Cruise map for The Kerala Backwaters

The Kerala Backwaters

7 NIGHTS

Launching in October 2025, the ten cabin Kochi Pandaw has been specially designed for this routing, whilst maintaining the much-loved classic Pandaw cabin and wrap round promenade decks. This will be Pandaw’s fourth ship in India and reflects the increasing demand for river cruises in India.

The Kochi Pandaw will operate weekly an eight-day circular itinerary from Kochi port visiting the main towns and remoter areas of the backwaters with its 900km of waterways that connect rivers with lakes. There will be exciting visits to ancient churches, Hindu temples, artisan villages and the legendry beaches of the Malabar coast.

Cochin International Airport has flights connecting to Europe with the Middle Eastern airlines and direct flights to most South-East Asian cities in addition to domestic flights connecting to most major Indian cities.

Please note: this itinerary is provisional and subject to revision once in operation.

Rivers: Kerala Backwaters

Ships: RV Kochi Pandaw

from US$4,950 per person

Combination Cruises

River Cruise itinerary for The Mighty Brahmaputra & Kerala Backwaters River Cruise map for The Mighty Brahmaputra & Kerala Backwaters

The Mighty Brahmaputra & Kerala Backwaters

15 NIGHTS

Exploring the far extremes of India from the North-East Assam region to the South-West Kerala, this combo cruise takes you 3,000 KM on two distinct small ship river expeditions in the lesser visited parts of the country. Combining Pandaw’s popular expedition along the wild Brahmaputra River with our newest itinerary sailing the backwaters of Kerala, embark on an adventure not to be missed with Pandaw.

Rivers: Kerala Backwaters, Brahmaputra River

Ships: RV Kindat Pandaw, RV Kochi Pandaw

from US$8,089.95 per person

Save up to 10%

River Cruise itinerary for The Ganges & Kerala Backwaters River Cruise map for The Ganges & Kerala Backwaters

The Ganges & Kerala Backwaters

22 NIGHTS

Embark on an unforgettable 22-night journey that seamlessly blends the spiritual and scenic wonders of India. Begin your adventure cruising along the sacred Ganges River, where you'll witness the vibrant life along its banks. As you transition to the serene Kerala Backwaters with our included flight and hotel, you'll glide through lush landscapes, coconut groves, and tranquil canals, immersing yourself in the natural beauty and traditional lifestyle of this enchanting region. This unique combination cruise offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery, promising an experience of a lifetime.

Rivers: Kerala Backwaters, Ganges River

Ships: RV Kalaw Pandaw, RV Kochi Pandaw

from US$13,350 per person

Kerala Backwaters Ships

RV Kochi Pandaw river cruise ship

RV Kochi Pandaw

Launching in October 2025, the ten cabin Kochi Pandaw has been specially designed for the backwaters of Kerala, whilst maintaining the much-love....

Discover Pandaw Cruises

Travel Blogs

Read our collection of interesting travel blogs for the areas we cruise through, from news to historic blogs.

Kerala Backwaters Climate

Kerala Backwaters climate chart

Kerala Backwaters Optional Extensions

Cardamon Hills

Cardamon Hills

Discover Kerala away from the backwaters and waterways featured during your cruise on this 5 - night journey into the hills and plains to experi....
Kochi 1 Night Tour

Kochi 1 Night Tour

Kochi is reknowned for its picturesque landscapes, vibrant history, and diverse culture and is often referred to as the "Queen of the Arabian Se....
Mararikulam Beach Break

Mararikulam Beach Break

Located just 40 km from the city of Cochin, Mararikulam is a charming little coastal village that has managed to avoid mass development. It is k....
Mumbai 2 Night Tour

Mumbai 2 Night Tour

Welcome to Mumbai, India’s second city where tradition and modernity intertwine! This introduction takes in the main highlights while also disco....