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Situated in the Kannur district of Kerala, Kavvayi Backwaters is a cluster of small islands close to Payyanur. It is the largest backwater system in north Kerala and the third largest in the state, encompassing an area of roughly 37 sq. km. The convergence of five rivers, namely Kavvayi, Kankol, Vannathichal, Kuppithodu, and Kuniyan, forms the backwaters.
Exploring Kavvayi Backwaters
Kannur district has 80 percent of the mangrove population in Kerala, and Kavvayi has some of the most picturesque ones. Valiyaparamba Island is the largest among the islands of Kavvayi, stretching over 16 km2. The backwaters were once the hub for spice and gems trade done through the port of Malabar. The port, however, was closed after.
The best way to explore the backwaters is by kayaking and country boat cruises, preferably in the early morning and late evenings. There are various tour operators that offer kayaking tours in the Kavvayi Backwaters. The best time to visit Kavvayi Backwaters is from October to February when the weather is pleasant and the backwaters are calm with the serene surroundings. There are also motorboat services available from Payyanur at a minimal ticket price. Those boating services are managed by State Water Transport Department (SWTD), check out this page to know boat schedules, ticket fairs, and contact information.
To reach Kavvayi, one can take a train or bus to Payyannur railway station which is 3 kilometers away. Alternatively, one can fly to Kannur International Airport which is the closest airport to Kavvayi Backwaters, located 62 kilometers away. To find a perfect stay near the Kavvayi backwaters, click on the “Book Now” button on this page.
Photo by Nahel Abdul Hadi.
FAQ's
Where is Kavvayi located?
Kavvayi backwaters and islands are located near Payyanur, in the Kannur district of Kerala.
Cost and Timings of Boating at Kavvayi Backwaters
There are motorboat services available from Payyanur at a minimal ticket price. Those boating services are managed by State Water Transport Department (SWTD). For more details including the boat schedules and ticket rate, visitors can contact the SWTD office at 04672213566 or visit the SWTD website.
What's the Cost of Kayaking at Kavvayi Backwaters
There are a few Kayaking service providers in the Kavvayi region, the cost depends on the service provider and the hours of renting the kayak.
How to reach Kavvayi Island
To reach Kavvayi, one can take a train or bus to Payyannur railway station which is 3 kilometers away. Alternatively, one can fly to Kannur International Airport which is the closest airport to Kavvayi Backwaters, located 62 kilometers away. There are motorboat services available from Payyanur at a minimal ticket price.