Kerala Backwaters: How to Choose the Right Houseboat Experience
Kerala, known as the “God’s own country”, has a unique place in the Indian tourism ecosystem due to its natural beauty, cultural diversity, and landscape. Kerala has beautiful beaches and lush Western Ghats, but what actually set it apart are its serene backwaters. Tourists choose a backwaters tour to get a glimpse of the local life, experience houseboats, and water activities. The backwaters stretch from Kochi to Kollam and have a unique ecosystem, particularly around Alleppey, Kumarakom, and Kollam.
Houseboat cruising in Kerala can be an experience of a lifetime, as it not only offers a stunning view for the eyes but the food served is a must-try for travelers looking to explore different cuisine and get an insight into traditional culture. There are several activities, like kayaking and canoeing for thrill-seekers, and fishing, village visits, birdwatching, toddy tapping, and several other activities for people looking for a traditional and eco-friendly travel experience.
Understanding the Kerala Backwaters
The Kerala backwaters are a network of brackish lagoons, lakes, rivers, and canals and there are several popular destinations in Kerala for experiencing the same,the most popular being Alleppey, known as the “Venice of the East”.It is a prime location for houseboat cruises. Apart from Alleppey, there are several other popularbackwater destinations like Kumarakom, situated near Vembanad lake, Kollam, a historic port city, Kochi, Kasargod, and Kuttanad, all showcasing the cultural and natural richness of Kerala.One key attraction of the region is the ayurvedic treatment offered in wellness centers. Visitors often indulge in rejuvenating massages, herbal baths, and wellness programs, seeking relaxation and peace.
Types of Houseboats available
The houseboats in Kerala, locally known as Kettuvallam, are available for travelers from all categories, whether thoseseeking a luxurious escape or travelers who seek budget-friendlyoptions. The houseboats are primarily categorized into three categories, depending on the prices and the amenities they offer.
The Deluxe Houseboats providea comfortable experience by providing amenities like air-conditioners and nicemeals. These houseboats are a great experience for travelers with a mid-range budget.
The Premium Houseboats are usually better than the Deluxe ones, owing to additional facilities like a Jacuzzi and more variety in food choices, and ambient dining with candlelit dinners. The prices are a little higher when compared to the deluxe houseboats, but if the budget allows, one must definitely try the amenities they provide.
The Luxury Houseboats are the top tier, providing top-tier facilities like a private chef, upper decks, glass walls, and premium interiors. The service provided is unmatched, and in most cases, they also provide additional arrangements for events like a wedding.
Eco-houseboats come with features like solar power, waste treatment systems, and recyclable materials, making them eco-friendly and sustainable. They are a unique way to explore the backwaters without compromisingour responsibility towards nature.
Choosing the Right Route
Kerala is a special destination because it offers not one, but several routes for backwater exploration. For first-timers,Alleppey is the perfect destination as the route is busy andmore popular compared to others. It has a network of paddy fields, lagoons, and canals, with a glimpse into the traditional ways of life of the people living in nearby villages. Kumarakom is another important destination, which is quieterand is known for its bird sanctuary. It offers luxury resorts and serene backwater cruises. Apart from these, there are other options for more offbeat and authentic experiences, like Kollam, Kuttanad, and Ashtamudi.
Kolam has beautiful waterways and coconut trees, and is one of the longest backwater routes. Kuttanad is known as the “Rice Bowl of Kerala” and showcases the unique practice of below-sea-level farming. Ashtamudi is famous for its eight-armedshape and a rich biodiversity.
Factors to consider when booking a houseboat
There are so many options to choose from when booking a houseboat in Kerala. This choice can be made easier by considering some factors that align with the facilities the houseboats provide. Choices might vary with the size of the group, depending on whethera person is traveling solo, with family, a group of friends, or in a couple.
The choice must also be made considering the amount of time assigned for the trip. Different houseboats might suffice different needs depending on whether it is a day cruise, overnight stay, or multi-day trip.
It is essential to know what is a need and what is a want, and what can be exempted or added,considering the budget or the purpose of the trip. Some houseboats offer a balcony, private chefs, and other amenities for a luxury trip, which might not be necessary for someone who is seeking a budget-friendly, comfortable getaway. The prices also depend on these facilities, and that makes some prior research even more important before making any bookings.
The houseboats offer a variety of food options, but ifone is particular about their preferences, they should check if the houseboat serves vegetarian food, seafood, or what they prefer, or accommodates special requests.
The houseboats offer booking facilities in both online and offline modes,and both options come with their pros and cons. While booking online can be convenient, ensure availability and might offer better deals, booking offline gives a chance for inspection and face-to-face negotiation before making bookings.
Best Time to Cruise the Backwaters
The weather usually plays an important role when planning a getaway in nature. The best time to visit the backwaters in Kerala is from October to February. These months are comparatively cooler, and there is minimal to no rainfall, making it ideal for enjoying the serenity of the backwaters in Kerala. This is also the best time for bird-watchers as various birds visit this region during this season.
Monsoon months, on the other hand, can bring with them a romantic element. Couples can choose to travel during monsoon for a romantic getaway; however, it can be risky for first-timers because of heavy rainfall. It is definitely not the season for someone seeking to participate in all the activities, which are limited due to heavy showers in the area during the monsoon.
Visiting during the off-season can be a rewarding experience. These months are less busy, and the prices are lower compared to the winter months. The occasional rain and weather can be a problem, but the nature looks fresh and lush, and fewer crowds can make the experience more intimate.
Local Experiences to Enhance Your Cruise
India is a country of various cultures, and Kerala is no exception. Cruising through the backwaters in Kerala is a sneak peek into the rich culture of the local people and can provide a closer look into the unique ecosystem of the area.
The routes are scenic,which pass through mesmerizingly beautiful waterways.The mornings and the evenings are usually reserved for guided village walks, providing an opportunity to communicate with the residents and understand the way they have adapteda lifestyle that aligns with the natural ecosystem. The villagers practice several activities like coir making, toddy tapping, and paddy cultivation, and observing them or even participating in some of them can help understand the tribal lifestyle.
Ayurvedic massages in the wellness centers can be extremely relaxing and a perfect way to get rid of stress caused by city life, at least for a few minutes. Canoe riding and Kayaking through the narrow lanes can also provide an intimate experience. For photography enthusiasts, it can be a perfect opportunity to click that Instagram-worthy sunset picture.
Sustainable and Responsible Houseboat Travel
While planning a getaway to nature, it is important to plan a sustainable one where we bring back the calm of nature, without leaving our chaos in it. The first step can be choosing a certified eco-tourism operator to ensure an eco-friendly trip. Plastics do not belong in nature and should not be left there. It is important to ensure minimal use of plastics onboard.
The tribal community living in the area has always treated the entire region as their home and customized their day-to-day life based on what nature demands from them and what they demand from nature. Their ways might sometimes feel different from ours, but respecting theirs is extremely necessary. In fact, the local communities can be supported, and they can also benefit from ethical tourism practices, which include responsible waste management, using reusable items, reducing water and energy consumption,and respecting wildlife.
Final Thoughts
Exploring the backwaters of Kerala can be a relaxing experience in the lap of nature. But to have the best experience, it is always handy to keep a few aspects in mind. The first obvious decision is a budget, as that can guide you in making all your other decisions, including the type of houseboat to stay in. The next choice is the route. Do not just go with the first choice that pops up. Remember a little imagination here can help you in having the experience that you are looking for, ranging from luxury to budget-friendly and sustainable.
Prior research and knowledge about the place can be useful while touring, and there are many books which you can keep handy to understand and communicate with the local people.
Excited to explore the backwaters of Kerala already? Do not forget to share your experience with us here in comments. For those of you who are looking for a customized Kerala house boat itinerary that fits your budget and taste just right, contact us right away and come home with an unforgettable experience!
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