Backwaters, Kerala

Photos taken during trips on the Keralan backwaters, off the Vembanadu lake near Alleppey (Alappuzha) and Kumarakom. Staying in a relatively luxurious houseboat was a unique experience - being spoilt by having our own and very hospitable staff on board, and able to observe the changing waterscapes from our comfortable lounge deck. However you can't beat the stealthiness and magical serenity of a punting / row boat gliding through the smaller channels without the noise of the engine! The first photo was taken in the early hours of the morning from the banks of Muhamma.

Technical details: Sony a850 with Tokina 19-35mm and Minolta 70-210mm lenses.