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.