Houseboat Bliss: Cruising Kerala’s Backwaters #Kerala
#Travel #Backwaters
A sudden stop
on a bridge in Kerala, “God’s Own Country,” revealed a sight that
captivated me. A majestic houseboat glided serenely on the river, framed by
towering green coconut trees. The scene begged to be captured, and with a quick
lens change, I aimed my camera to create a three-dimensional postcard of
Kerala.
Houseboats in
Kerala are iconic tourist experiences, offering a unique way to explore the
state’s enchanting backwaters. These floating havens are modern-day adaptations
of Kettuvallams, once used to transport goods like rice and spices. The name
itself, derived from the Malayalam words “kettu” (to tie) and
“vallom” (boat), hints at their traditional construction methods.
Imagine a
luxurious hotel on water! Houseboats offer all the comforts you’d expect on
land: bedrooms, kitchens, living areas, and bathrooms. Eco-friendly materials
like jackfruit wood, palm wood, coconut fiber, bamboo poles, and mats
contribute to their rustic charm. Typically ranging from 60 to 70 feet long and
15 feet wide, these beauties can be found in various locations across Kerala,
including:
- Thiruvananthapuram
- Kollam
- Kottayam
- Alleppey (Alappuzha)
- Ernakulam
- Thrissur
- Kasaragod
Beyond
houseboats, Kerala’s waterways offer other exciting options:
- Motorboats: A budget-friendly alternative for
transportation. - Shikara boats: Traditional motorized canoes with
seating for 4-15 people.
Kettuvallams,
with their distinctive thatched roofs, are the workhorses of Kerala’s tourism
industry. Interestingly, houseboats in Southeast Asian countries like Thailand,
Indonesia, and Malaysia often have names like “floating houses,”
“floating villages,” and even “floating markets.”
The first
modern houseboat in Kerala is attributed to Thomas Vargheese in Kottayam.
However, some say the British were the pioneers, seeking alternative
accommodation after the local Maharaja denied them permission to build on land.
Houseboat trips
in Kerala typically range from one day to overnight stays. However,
customization is possible for shorter or longer journeys. A three-night
adventure lets you delve deeper, exploring hidden canals, quaint villages, and
serene waterways.
Costs vary
depending on the boat’s category (luxury, deluxe, budget), the number of
bedrooms, and the season. A basic one-bedroom houseboat starts around Rs 9,000
per night, while luxury options can reach Rs 30,000 or more. Most houseboat
packages are all-inclusive, featuring delicious meals onboard. Here’s a quick
cost breakdown:
- Standard one-bedroom houseboat: Rs
9,000/- - Deluxe houseboat (multiple
bedrooms): Rs 15,000/- to Rs 25,000/- per night - Premium luxury houseboat: Upwards
of Rs 25,000/- per night
Peak seasons
like winter months tend to see price hikes. More bedrooms generally equate to
higher costs. Location also plays a role, with Alleppey being the most popular
area. Consider Kumarakom for slightly different pricing options.
Kerala boasts
excellent connectivity by road, water, and air. Budget hotels are readily
available across the state. For houseboat stays, however, pre-booking is
recommended to avoid unnecessary hotel expenses.
Planning a
houseboat adventure? Here are some
key takeaways:
- Pre-book your houseboat to avoid
last-minute hassles and potential double bookings. - Choose the houseboat category that
best suits your budget and preferences. - Consider the season and location
when factoring in costs.
Kerala’s
enchanting backwaters await! May your houseboat journey be a truly
unforgettable experience.
Photo caption: A houseboat glides through the serene
backwaters of Alleppey district, Kerala.
Text and Photo
by: Ashok Karan,
Ashokkaran.blogspot.com
Please feel
free to share your experiences and ask any questions in the comments below!
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