India is a country of diversity, where every state is famous throughout the world for its distinct geographical feature, culture and natural beauty. Whenever we think of traveling on holidays or spending peaceful moments, mountains, lush green forests or crowded hill stations often come to our mind. But have you ever thought that far away from the hustle and bustle of the land and the traffic jam of the city, there are some wonderful places situated in the middle of water where the style of life is completely different and very relaxed? Here there is neither the noise of vehicles on the road nor the suffocation of concrete forests, but here one hears gurgling water and the unique music of nature all around. There are a few selected places in different parts of the Indian subcontinent that are completely situated in the middle of water or on water bodies, and they are no less than a paradise for tourists. In today's article, let us explore in depth 4 such magical and unique places of India and know what is their specialty. It is impossible to talk about places situated amidst water and not mention the backwaters of Kerala. Known as the 'Venice of the East', life in Alleppey (also known as Alappuzha) revolves entirely around water. Here, settlements of people are situated amidst small pieces of land and a network of countless canals, where housesboats are mainly used for commuting instead of cars or bikes. When you travel through these calm water canals in a traditional catamaran or houseboat, the sight of swaying coconut trees on both sides, lush green paddy fields and local life floating in the water is mesmerizing. Here you will neither hear the sound of vehicle horns nor any stress of traffic, only the melodious sound of the boat floating on the waves of water will provide immense peace to your mind. On hearing the name of Srinagar, situated in the beautiful valleys of Jammu and Kashmir, the first picture that comes to mind is the huge and blue Dal Lake surrounded by water. This lake is not just a source of water, but there is a whole world within and around it. Here, magnificent wooden shikaras and luxurious houseboats are built on the water, which look no less than floating palaces. All modern facilities like hotels are available in these houseboats, where tourists spend their holidays living amidst water. Not only this, the famous 'Floating Vegetable Market' that takes place in the morning makes this place completely different in the world, where sailors sell vegetables and flowers on their boats. Staying away from the hassles of traffic, amidst this lake surrounded by snowy mountains, is a very magical and unforgettable experience for every traveller. Loktak Lake, located in the state of Manipur, is the largest freshwater lake in North-East India, which is considered unique in the whole world due to its geographical structure. The biggest and surprising feature of this lake is that 'Phumdis' are found here, which are floating natural islands of soil, vegetation and rotten organic matter. Local fishermen have built their small houses on these floating islands and have been living their lives in these waters for generations. Living in the middle of this lake, one feels as if nature has prepared a unique abode on the water for humans to live. The tranquil environment, biodiversity and unique lifestyle of the local people attract tourists, reaching where all the stress of the modern world disappears in a moment. Udupi and its surrounding coastal area, located in the Karnataka state of South India, is known for its natural beauty and religious importance, but the tranquil backwaters and water bodies here are no less than a hidden treasure for tourists. Located close to the coast of the Arabian Sea, the rivers and rivulets here come together to form waterways where settlements are located along the water's edge and on small islands. Tourists coming here get the opportunity to go boating in the water, walk through mangrove forests and see the traditional lifestyle closely with local fishermen. Far away from the noise of the land, watching the sun setting in these water areas is a very relaxing feeling in itself. These four places in India are proof that if you want to enjoy the true beauty and peace of nature, then you must visit these unique places situated on these waters.
