The backwaters of Kerala.

From the main waterway on Vembanad Lake to the busy network of canals around Alleppey and quieter, narrow waterways that can only be accessed in traditional rice boats. Visitors can spots locals fishing for "karimeen", or "pearl spot", visit the half-statue of Lord Buddha, St. Mary’s Church (established by St. Thomas in 1721) and Sree Bhagavathy Kshetram, a 100-year old Hindu temple to the Mother Goddess, or explore the Chambakulam snake boat yard, which is home to a traditional racing boat (130 feet long).