Kerala Backwater Cruise

 

Kerala Backwater Cruise – A Peaceful Journey Through Nature

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Table of Contents
1.   The Allure of the Backwaters: An Introduction to Paradise
2.   What is a Kerala Houseboat? More Than Just a Boat
o   Anatomy of a Kettuvallam
o   Types of Houseboats: Choosing Your Floating Abode
3.   A Journey Through Time: The History and Evolution of the Kettuvallam
o   The Ingenious Ancient Design
o   From Cargo Carrier to Luxury Cruiser
4.   Mythological Whispers: The Legend of Parasurama and Kerala’s Creation
5.   Choosing Your Perfect Backwater: Alleppey, Kumarakom, and Beyond
o   Alleppey (Alappuzha): The Venice of the East
o   Kumarakom: The Birdwatcher’s Sanctuary
o   Kuttanad: The Rice Bowl of Kerala
o   Ashtamudi Lake: The Gateway to the Backwaters
6.   Life on Board: What to Expect on Your Houseboat Cruise
o   A Typical Day Itinerary (Sample)
o   The Culinary Symphony: A Taste of Kerala on Water
7.   Beyond the Boat: Enchanting Stops and Local Encounters
8.   Planning Your Voyage: A Practical Guide
o   Best Time to Go: Chasing the Perfect Weather
o   How to Reach the Kerala Backwaters
o   Where to Stay: Pre and Post-Cruise Accommodations
o   Tour Packages: Decoding the Options
o   What to Pack for Your Houseboat Adventure
9.   Markets and Souvenirs: Taking a Piece of Kerala Home
10.   Responsible Tourism: Preserving the Paradise
11.   Conclusion: The Unforgettable Sway of the Backwaters

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1.The Allure of the Backwaters: An Introduction to Paradise

Close your eyes. Imagine gliding on a liquid mirror, the only sound being the gentle lapping of water against the hull and the distant chorus of village life. Lush, emerald-green palm fronds form a canopy over narrow canals, their reflections dancing on the surface. The air is thick with the scent of blooming water lilies and damp earth. As you round a bend, a kingfisher, a flash of electric blue, darts from a branch. A fisherman in a dugout canoe casts his net in a practiced, timeless motion. This isn't a dream; this is the reality of a Kerala houseboat tour.

Often dubbed "God's Own Country," Kerala’s network of serene backwaters is one of India's most iconic and sought-after travel experiences. A journey on a traditional houseboat, or Kettuvallam, is not merely a sightseeing trip; it's a sensory immersion into the soul of rural Kerala. It’s a chance to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature, culture, and yourself. This in-depth guide is your compass to navigating this enchanting world, ensuring your Kerala houseboat tour becomes a cherished memory etched in time.

2. What is a Kerala Houseboat? More Than Just a Boat

A Kerala houseboat is far more than a floating vessel with a bed. It is a self-contained ecosystem of comfort, tradition, and luxury, designed to showcase the backwaters in their purest form.

Anatomy of a Kettuvallam

The word Kettuvallam (pronounced Ket-too-vall-am) literally translates to "tied boat" in Malayalam, a reference to its unique construction method.

·         The Hull: Traditionally, the hull is made of wooden planks (usually Anjili wood) that are skillfully tied together using coir rope, with not a single nail used. This gives the boat remarkable flexibility to navigate the sometimes-narrow and winding waterways.

·         The Roof: The iconic, curved roof is made of bamboo poles and palm leaves, providing natural insulation, keeping the interior cool even during the hottest part of the day. On modern houseboats, this is often reinforced with synthetic materials for durability but retains the traditional aesthetic.

·         The Structure: A typical houseboat features:

o    A Spacious Sit-Out Area: The front of the boat is an open deck with comfortable seating, offering an unobstructed 180-degree view. This is the prime spot for photography, birdwatching, or simply soaking in the sun.

o    Living/Dining Area: A covered central section with large windows that can be opened, often furnished with a dining table and chairs.

o    Bedrooms (Cabins): Equipped with comfortable beds and attached modern bathrooms. The quality of these cabins varies significantly, from basic to luxurious.

o    Kitchen (Pantry): Located at the rear, where a dedicated cook prepares fresh, local meals.

Types of Houseboats: Choosing Your Floating Abode

Houseboats come in various sizes and luxury levels to suit different budgets and preferences:

·         Standard Houseboats: Usually 1 or 2-bedroom boats with essential amenities. Perfect for budget-conscious travelers and backpackers.

·         Deluxe Houseboats: A step up, featuring better furnishings, more spacious cabins, and often air-conditioning, which is a blessing in the humid climate.

·         Premium/Luxury Houseboats: These are the floating palaces of the backwaters. They feature:

o    Spacious, elegantly appointed cabins with modern bathrooms.

o    Air-conditioning throughout.

o    Sundecks with loungers.

o    Attached, well-trained staff including a captain, chef, and helper.

o    Some even have bathtubs with a view.

·         Customized & Eco-Friendly Houseboats: A growing trend, these boats focus on sustainability, using solar power, biodegradable products, and employing silent electric motors to minimize noise and pollution.

3. A Journey Through Time: The History and Evolution of the Kettuvallam

The story of the houseboat is a story of adaptation and revival, mirroring the resilience of Kerala itself.

The Ingenious Ancient Design

For centuries, long before tourists arrived, the Kettuvallam was the lifeline of Kerala's economy. These colossal barges, some over 100 feet long, were used to transport tons of rice, spices, and coir from the fertile hinterlands of Kuttanad to the port of Kochi (Cochin). Their design was a marvel of indigenous engineering. The complete absence of nails allowed the boat to flex and absorb shocks without breaking, essential for navigating the shallow, often-obstructed waterways. The use of buoyant wood and the specific hull shape ensured it could carry massive loads with minimal draft.

From Cargo Carrier to Luxury Cruiser

The mid-20th century saw a decline in the Kettuvallam trade. The advent of road and rail transport was faster and more efficient. These magnificent vessels were left to rot in the backwater inlets, a fading memory of a bygone era.

The revival began in the early 1990s. A few visionary entrepreneurs and officials from the Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC) saw the potential to repurpose these dying giants. They recognized that the very slowness and tranquility that made them commercially unviable were their greatest assets for tourism. The first tourist houseboat was launched in 1991, and it sparked a renaissance. Today, there are over a thousand houseboats operating in the backwaters, providing livelihoods for thousands and preserving a vital piece of Keralan heritage.

4. Mythological Whispers: The Legend of Parasurama and Kerala’s Creation

To truly understand the spiritual significance of this land, one must delve into its origin myth. The story goes that Kerala was reclaimed from the sea by Parasurama, the sixth avatar of the Hindu god Vishnu.

After winning a great war, Parasurama was overcome with guilt for the violence he had committed. Seeking penance, he meditated atop the Western Ghats. He performed a powerful ritual and, in a symbolic act of cleansing, threw his battle-axe into the sea. The waters recoiled, and the land that rose from the retreating waves was Kerala. This "gift from the sea" is why Kerala is so lush, fertile, and defined by its intricate relationship with water—the Arabian Sea on one side and the labyrinthine backwaters on the other. Sailing on a houseboat, you are traversing a landscape born from divine penance, a land literally carved out by a god's axe.

5. Choosing Your Perfect Backwater: Alleppey, Kumarakom, and Beyond

The Kerala backwaters span several districts, each offering a distinct flavor and experience. Your choice of base will define your journey.

Alleppey (Alappuzha): The Venice of the East

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Vibe: Bustling, vibrant, and the most popular hub for houseboat tours. It offers the quintessential backwater experience.

·         What to Expect: A vast network of canals, both wide and narrow. You'll see intense boat traffic, especially around the main jetties, but this also means more opportunities to see vibrant village life, ancient temples, and churches along the banks. The annual Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race held on the Punnamada Lake is a major draw.

·         Best For: First-time visitors, those seeking a comprehensive experience, and photographers.

Kumarakom: The Birdwatcher’s Sanctuary

·         Vibe: Serene, exclusive, and nature-focused. Kumarakom is the largest lake in Kerala is a cluster of islands on the Vembanad Lake.

·         What to Expect: Wider waterways and a more open feel. The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a major attraction, home to migratory birds like Siberian storks. The pace here is generally slower and more relaxed than in Alleppey. Luxury resorts dot the islands, making it a premium destination.

·         Best For: Honeymooners, birdwatchers, and travelers seeking a quieter, more luxurious escape.

Kuttanad: The Rice Bowl of Kerala

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Vibe: Authentic, agricultural, and breathtakingly unique.

·         What to Expect: Kuttanad is the region known for its below-sea-level farming. You will cruise past vast, shimmering paddy fields that lie 4 to 10 feet below sea level, protected by a network of dikes. It's a phenomenal spectacle of human ingenuity. The pace of life here is the slowest, offering a deep dive into rural Keralan culture.

·         Best For: Travelers looking for an offbeat, culturally rich experience away from the crowds.

Ashtamudi Lake: The Gateway to the Backwaters

·         Vibe: Rustic, less commercial, and the backwaters in their raw form.

·         What to Expect: Located near Kollam (Quilon), Ashtamudi, meaning "eight-armed," is known for its distinctive palm-fringed lagoons and octopus-shaped lake. The houseboat scene here is smaller and more intimate.

·         Best For: Those who want to escape the tourist trail and experience a more tranquil, localized version of the backwaters.

6. Life on Board: What to Expect on Your Houseboat Cruise

Booking a houseboat tour is typically for a duration of 21-24 hours, starting at noon on Day 1 and ending around 11 AM on Day 2. This allows you to experience the backwaters in the golden afternoon light, witness a stunning sunset, enjoy a peaceful night anchored in a quiet canal, and wake up to the magical morning mist.

A Typical Day Itinerary (Sample)

·         12:00 PM: Board your houseboat at the designated jetty (usually in Alleppey or Kumarakom). You are welcomed with a refreshing tender coconut water. Meet your crew (captain, chef, and helper). The boat sets sail.

·         1:00 PM: A delicious, traditional Keralan lunch is served on board as you glide past villages, paddy fields, and coconut groves.

·         Afternoon: Relax on the sit-out deck, read a book, or simply watch the world go by. The boat might make a short stop at a local village, a coir-making unit, or a small canalside market.

·         5:30 PM - 6:30 PM: As the sun begins its descent, the sky erupts in hues of orange, pink, and purple. This is the golden hour for photography. The boat anchors at a pre-designated, serene spot for the night.

·         7:30 PM: A multi-course dinner is served, often featuring fresh seafood caught from the very waters you're sailing on.

·         Night: Enjoy the profound silence, broken only by the sounds of nature. Gaze at a sky full of stars, unobscured by city lights.

·         Next Morning, 6:30 AM: Wake up to the gentle sounds of chirping birds and rippling water. Enjoy a cup of chai (tea) on the deck as a soft mist hangs over the water.

·         8:00 AM: A hearty breakfast is served.

·         9:00 AM - 11:00 AM: The boat begins its return journey, offering a fresh perspective in the morning light. You disembark at the jetty, filled with a sense of peace and a camera full of memories.

The Culinary Symphony: A Taste of Kerala on Water

The food on a houseboat is a highlight. Prepared fresh in the tiny kitchen by your personal chef, it's an authentic culinary journey.

Must-Try Dishes:

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Karimeen Pollichathu: Pearl Spot Fish, a backwater delicacy, marinated in a blend of spices, wrapped in a banana leaf, and pan-fried or steamed. The banana leaf infuses a unique aroma.

·         Kerala Sadya: A grand vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf during special occasions. Some houseboats can arrange a smaller version upon request.

·         Prawn Curry (Konju Curry): Juicy prawns cooked in a fiery, coconut-based gravy, best enjoyed with steamed red rice (Kuthari).

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Avial: A mixed vegetable dish cooked with a grated coconut and yogurt base, a staple of Keralan cuisine.

·         Appam with Stew: Soft, lacy hopper pancakes (Appam) paired with a mild and creamy vegetable or chicken stew.

 

 

 

7. Beyond the Boat: Enchanting Stops and Local Encounters

While the boat itself is the main attraction, the stops along the way add rich layers to the experience.

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  Village Visits: Walk through a small village, interact with locals, and see their way of life up close.

·         Coir Making Units: See how coconut husks are beaten, spun, and woven into durable coir rope and mats. This is a traditional cottage industry of the region.

·         Local Temples and Churches: The banks are dotted with beautiful, ancient places of worship, reflecting Kerala's diverse religious heritage.

·         Toddy Shop Visit (Optional): Toddy is a local alcoholic beverage tapped from coconut palms. Some tours can arrange a stop at a local kallu shaap (toddy shop) to sample it with spicy local snacks.

8. Planning Your Voyage: A Practical Guide

Best Time to Go: Chasing the Perfect Weather

·         Winter (October to February): The absolute best time. The weather is cool, dry, and pleasant, with clear skies. This is the peak season, so book well in advance.

·         Spring (March to May): It starts getting hot and humid, but is still a good time for a cruise, especially if you get an air-conditioned boat.

·         Monsoon (June to September): A controversial but magical time. The landscape is explosively green, and the rains have a romantic, dramatic quality. However, heavy downpours can disrupt schedules. This is the low season, with lower prices.

How to Reach the Kerala Backwaters

Kerala is well-connected by air, rail, and road.

·         By Air: The nearest international airport is Cochin International Airport (COK), about 75-90 minutes from Alleppey and Kumarakom. Trivandrum International Airport (TRV) is another option, about 3 hours from Alleppey.

·         By Rail: Alleppey (Alappuzha) and Kottayam are the major railway stations well-connected to all major cities in India. Kottayam is the nearest major station for Kumarakom.

·         By Road: An extensive network of state and national highways connects Kerala to its neighbors. Alleppey is about a 4-hour drive from Kochi.

Where to Stay: Pre and Post-Cruise Accommodations

While you sleep on the boat for one night, you'll likely need a hotel before or after your cruise.

·         Alleppey: A range from budget homestays to heritage properties like Raheem Residency.

·         Kumarakom: Known for its luxury resorts, including the world-renowned Kumarakom Lake Resort and Taj Kumarakom Resort & Spa.

·         Cochin (Kochi): Many travelers prefer to stay in the historic Fort Kochi area, exploring its Chinese fishing nets, Jewish Synagogue, and colonial architecture before heading to the backwaters.

Tour Packages: Decoding the Options

Packages are widely available and can be customized.

·         Standard 1-Night/2-Day Package: The most common offering.

·         Day Cruise Packages (6-8 hours): For those short on time, but you'll miss the magical evening and morning experience.

·         Longer 2-Night Cruises: For a more in-depth exploration, venturing into the quieter, remoter canals.

·         Honeymoon Packages: Include romantic add-ons like flower decking, candlelight dinners, and premium amenities.

Price Range: Can vary from INR 6,000 to INR 25,000+ per night for the entire boat, depending on the season, type of boat, and inclusions.

What to Pack for Your Houseboat Adventure

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Light cotton clothing, a hat, and sunglasses.

·         Sunscreen and insect repellent.

·         Binoculars for birdwatching.

·         A good camera.

·         A light jacket for the evening, especially in winter.

·         Your own toiletries and any necessary medications.

·         A power bank, as charging points may be limited.

9. Markets and Souvenirs: Taking a Piece of Kerala Home

Before you leave, explore the local markets.

·         Coir Products: Mats, baskets, and decor items.

·         Spices: Cardamom, pepper, cloves from the local spice markets.

·         Aranmula Kannadi: A unique, handcrafted metal mirror from the temple town of Aranmula.

·         Banana Chips: A crispy, addictive local snack.

·         Kerala Kasavu Sarees: The iconic gold-bordered white sarees.

10. Responsible Tourism: Preserving the Paradise

The popularity of houseboats has put immense pressure on the fragile backwater ecosystem. It is our collective responsibility to travel consciously.

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Choose Eco-Friendly Boats: Opt for operators who use solar power, bio-toilets, and electric motors.

·         Avoid Plastic: Carry a reusable water bottle. Say no to single-use plastic.

·         Dispose of Waste Properly: Ensure all non-biodegradable waste is collected and disposed of on land.

·         Respect the Silence: Avoid loud music. The true soundtrack of the backwaters is its natural serenity.

·         Be Water Wise: Use water sparingly, as the boat carries a limited supply.

11. Conclusion: The Unforgettable Sway of the Backwaters

A Kerala houseboat tour is more than a checkbox on a travel itinerary; it is a journey that recalibrates your soul. It’s a lesson in slowness, a painting in green and blue, and a symphony of simple, profound moments. From the mythical axe of Parasurama to the skilled hands that tie the Kettuvallam together, every element of this experience is woven with history, culture, and natural beauty.

As you disembark and return to the solidity of land, a part of you will remain, forever swaying gently with the rhythm of the backwaters, forever captivated by the timeless magic of God's Own Country.

Also See: 

Kerala Tour by Houseboat: A Magical Journey ThroughGod’s Own Country