Everything You Need To Know About Houseboats in Kerala Backwaters

When God’s Own Country beckons, never say no. Kerala takes the crown for the exceptional natural beauty that surrounds it. The houseboats in Kerala peppered across the backwaters are unique and exciting attractions for many around the world. Here is some information you need to have before you plan your trip to these amazing ecosystems

Why houseboats in Kerala backwaters

One of the most charming states in India deserves one of the most attractive destinations to match its calibre. The backwaters in Kerala prove to be just that. The Kerala backwaters are a network of interconnected canals, rivers, lakes, and such, forming a serpentine system of more than 900 km of waterways. Numerous towns and cities lie in the midst of this, serving as the starting and ending points of the backwater cruises. The unique part of the backwater ecosystem is that freshwater from the rivers congregates with the seawater from the Arabian Sea.

To avoid penetration of the salt water into the fresh water, there are barrages built in some areas such as the Vambanad Kayal, near Kumarakom. Within and alongside these backwaters reside several species of aquatic life such as fish, crabs, frogs, mudskippers, water birds such as terns, kingfishers, darters, and cormorants, and animals such as otters and turtles. The backwaters of Kerala have been known to be replete with peace, tranquillity, and natural beauty.

Best time to visit backwaters in Kerala

The Kerala backwaters are ideal for a family visit at any time of the year. This flexibility quotient is yet another reason for them being a beloved destination. If you enjoy the still tranquillity of a destination, plan your trip between August and May, so you can avoid the monsoons and enjoy the calm and quiet to the maximum.

Alleppey Backwater houseboat trips

When you think backwaters, the first name that comes to mind is Alleppey. The Alleppey backwaters, popularly known as the Venice of the East, is a highly popular backwater destination. Replete with natural lakes, lagoons, and freshwater rivers, a houseboat cruise would be the perfect solution to the perplexing problem of how to enjoy the Alleppey backwaters immensely! The best part of this whole deal is that the food provided on board a houseboat in Kerala is as authentic as can be, with the local fish and flavours. Of course, you can customise them to your tastes and likings, but when in Rome… Eat as the Romans eat! A tour of Alleppey backwaters is handsdown among the best things to do in Kerala.

Categories and types of houseboats in Kerala

Houseboats in Kerala are made of eco-friendly materials and are available for hire for day cruises or night stays. Most of them have thatched roofs made of coconut leaves. Even though the exteriors are made of natural and organic substances, the amenities and facilities they provide are quite modern, and mirroring those of a comfortable hotel! These houseboats host fully furnished bedrooms with a sundeck to enjoy the gorgeous weather. There are also separate rest rooms with televisions, in case the raw beauty outside gets monotonous (although, we don’t see that happening anytime soon). All these houseboats have the necessary safety measures and are in accordance with the Kerala Government and the Tourism department.

There are three main kinds of houseboats in Kerala

• Standard Houseboats: These are basic boats that have only the necessary amenities on board.
• Deluxe/Premium Houseboats: These have a few more luxuries as compared to the standard ones, such as air conditioners for 10 hours at nights.
• Luxury/Super Deluxe Houseboats: These are the crème de la crème of houseboats. They have an entourage of uniformed butlers and 24-hour air conditioning services.

Suiting every mood and age, these houseboats in Kerala are designed to keep your thirst for beauty and nature satiated!

For best Kerala backwater tours, opt for the best Kerala holiday packages to make your holiday memorable.