Kayaking in Paravur Backwaters of Kollam

Summary

1) Novices & beginners can be confident about the paddling activity as our Lead Guide will provide introductory paddling techniques and come along (in another kayak or in your kayak) for your safety should you need it. If you prefer a canoe, you may choose a 3 or 4 seater canoe instead of kayak. 2) Within 30 to 45 minutes of paddling from the launch point, you can reach sandbar. It is an ideal place for a short break/walk or photo ops or bird watching. From here, you can get a glimpse of the spillway regulator bridge that controls the inflow of seawater and outflow of Ithikkara river. 3) Paddlers can proceed from sandbar to east and pass under the railway bridge. If you're lucky or wait for a few minutes, you may be able to see a train pass by overhead in either direction. 4) Within 30 minutes passing the railway bridge, paddlers can reach a small island which is not more than 200 sqm in size. The island hosts a small temple, named Chithan Thampuran – probably the smallest island temple in Kerala. 5) Paddling 45 to 60 minutes from there to east will reach the tropical mangrove forest which is nearly beyond the reach of humans due to lack of road access to it. 6) Return to Syzygy.

Tour info

Duration
4 hours
Group Size
Pricing (From)
Commentary
Meeting Point
Dropoff location

Why take this tour?

Overview Paravur Backwaters is one of the lesser known, tightly kept secret locations in southern Kerala. The Paravur Backwaters is safe and a sheltered waterbody, without much influence of the tidal effects. You can be assured of the safety as the depth of the lake in general is not more than 10 feet and not wider than 1 km. This ensures you don't paddle out and lose orientation in unknown waters. There are no motorboats in the waterbody to cause wake or noise pollution. Paravur Backwaters is part of the West Coast Canal System and connects it to the NW3 National Waterway between Kollam and Thiruvananthapuram. You will find it truly unique place to paddle as it is also the meeting point of sea water from Arabian Sea and freshwater from Ithikkara River. The paddling center is located on a tiny sandbar that sits between Arabian Sea and Paravur Backwaters with direct access to both waterbodies.

What’s included?

  • GST (Goods and Services Tax)

  • TripAdvisor Experiences brokerage fee

  • Professional guide

  • Private tour

  • Food and drinks

  • Lunch

  • Hotel drop-off

  • Hotel pickup

  • Transportation to/from attractions

Things to know

Before you book

  • Duration: 4h

  • Mobile tickets accepted

Cancellation Policy

    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Operated by:

Syzygy Ecosports

About operator:

Syzygy Ecosports, founded in Kollam, aims to promote paddlesport activities in India. Syzygy conveniently sits at the meeting point between the Arabian Sea, the Paravur Lake and the Ithikkara River, allowing for exceptional access to the beautifully sheltered backwaters, open sea and beach. The paddling center has a variety of boats for various skill levels to choose from including sea kayaks, canoes, and traditional fishing crafts. The facility is equipped with shower, lockers, and WC for males and females. Participants can choose a short trail or a long trail for paddling in the morning & evening. The short trail is suitable for beginners and those who want to get a taste of canoeing and kayaking. The long trail is suitable for those who like to explore the life around tightly kept secret locations from commercial tourism. On a long trail, you can experience the sandbar, spillway bridge, railway bridge, island temple, mangrove forests, riparian vegetation, and traditional fishing.

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