Perumbalam: Kerala’s serene backwater gem of fishing villages, lush farms & timeless canoe rides.
Perumbalam Island, nestled in Kerala’s Vembanad Lake,
captivates with its lush backwaters and rustic village life.
Covering just 6 km², this fishing community thrives on tradition,
inviting travelers to experience authentic Kerala charm.
Glide through narrow canals in a canoe and spot vibrant birdlife,
witness coir weaving, betel-leaf farming, and peanut plantations,
join local fishermen for clamming and lime-shell collection,
and savor fresh seafood in a tranquil island setting.
Soon connected by the under-construction Perumbalam Bridge,
accessibility will improve, linking the island to Ernakulam district.
Plan your Kerala getaway to explore serene vistas and warm hospitality,
and discover Perumbalam, the backwater secret of Southern India.
Top Activities to Experience in Perumbalam Island
1. Traditional Canoe & Jhankar Boat Rides
Glide through the narrow backwater channels in a handcrafted canoe or a Jhankar
ferry that can carry your vehicle.
Enjoy the gentle sway of the lake, spot kingfishers and herons, and admire
swaying palms along the shores.
2. Fishing with Local Fishermen
Join the fishermen at dawn to cast nets and haul in the day's catch.
Learn age-old techniques for clam harvesting and lime-shell collection, then
savor the freshest seafood prepared by villagers.
3. Village Walking & Cycling Tours
Wander through narrow lanes flanked by coconut groves and traditional homes.
Stop at roadside shrines, chat with friendly residents, and witness daily
life—from cattle rearing to toddy tapping.
4. Coir Weaving & Palm Frond Craft Demonstrations
Visit local workshops to see how coconut husks become durable coir ropes and
mats.
Try your hand at weaving palm fronds into baskets, mats, or decorative items
under expert guidance.
5. Betel-Leaf & Peanut Farm Visits
Explore lush green plots where betel vines climb trellises and peanuts grow in
sandy soil.
Learn about traditional cultivation methods and sample freshly harvested produce
straight from the farm.
How to Reach Perumbalam Island
By Road: Take NH 66 from Kochi (53 km) or Thiruvananthapuram (150 km) to Alappuzha, then a taxi or bus for 17 km to Muhamma jetty.
By Rail: Alappuzha Railway Station is 17 km from Muhamma jetty. You can also use Ernakulam Junction, 16 km from Vyttila jetty.
By Air: Fly into Cochin International Airport (83 km away), then hire a taxi or catch a bus to Muhamma or Vyttila jetty.
By Boat: Boats and Jhankar ferries run from Muhamma (Alappuzha), Vaduthala (Ernakulam), and Kumarakom (Kottayam). Vehicles can board the ferry too.
