The Kerala backwaters are a chain of lakes and salt water lagoons lying corresponding to the Arabian Sea coast of Kerala. The linkage includes 5 massive lakes, 38 rivers and lagoons, extending virtually half the length of Kerala state. In the midst of this landscape there are a number of towns and cities, which serve as the starting and ending points of backwater cruises. Most popular Kerala backwaters trails spread crossways the famous Vembanad Lake and Ashtamudi Lake. The significant rivers from north to south are the Valapattanam River, Chaliar, Kadalundipuzha, Bharathapuzha, Chalakudy River, Periyar, Pamba, Achancoil and Kalladayar. Houseboats in Kerala is an exclusive attraction in the ‘God’s Own Country’ that has gained a lot of popularity amid tourists from all across the world. If you are planning a tour to Kerala but have not included Kerala houseboat cruise then you going to something. This blog contains A to Z about Kerala, backwaters and houseboats.
A network or channel of lakes, canals, inlets and rivers have been given the name of Kerala Backwater, which form over 900 km of waterways. At different places on the state’s landscapes, there are towns and cities, which act as starting and ending points of houseboat cruises. These backwaters have been blessed with a unique ecosystem, where the waters of the Arabian Sea meet the freshwater of the rivers. At some places, for instance, Vembanad Kayal, a bank has been made so that the freshwater of the lake doesn’t gets mixed with salt water of the sea. This water is used for the purpose of irrigation. The backwaters are home to different species of aquatic animals including frogs, crabs, and mudskippers, along with water birds such as darters, terns, cormorants, and kingfishers. Turtles and otters can also be found here. Thick bushes, palm trees, several leafy plants and pandanus shrubs on the banks of the backwater, form a lush sight.
Types of houseboats
If you do not wish to face any dissatisfaction of not being able to get a houseboat on first come first serve basis, it is sensible that you pre-book a houseboat, whether for a day cruise or a an overnight stay.
Houseboats with double deck
Such houseboats have a double deck. From the upper deck, you can enjoy spectacular views of the backwater. These houseboats can lodge more amount people and come with conference facilities. Usually, the upper comprises of a double bedroom with attached bathroom, a sundeck and a living area that features a TV and music system for guest entertainment. In the lower deck, there are two air-conditioned double rooms with attached bathrooms. Each of this room can easily accommodate 2 adults and 2-3 children. Here, there is also a welcome area, a dining area with television and a sit-out. This kind of a houseboat can be hired by 2 separate groups at the same time. Because of the 2 deck, privacy is taken care off.
Houseboats with Sun Deck
Such houseboats do not have an upper deck but a sun deck to admire the breathtaking view of the surroundings as the houseboat cruises on the placid waters of the backwater. The welcome area of this houseboat has a staircase to take you to the sundeck, which can be open or glass covered.
Houseboats without Upper decks
Such houseboats are made from different parts of a coconut tree, and plows on the water, offering the guests a chance to go into the interior of the lakes. These houseboats look similar to a house with 2 bedrooms, a sitting room, and a loaded kitchen.
Food Menu on Kerala Houseboat
When you opt for a night stay on a houseboat in Kerala, you are served all three meals inside the houseboat. Meals on Kerala houseboat contain such as South Indian, Continental, North Indian and specialty being traditional authentic Keralite cuisine. Local fish delicacy is the highlight. The chefs are experts in their field. Before entering into the boat, you can also specify your choice of oil- sunflower oil or coconut oil
Transportation to Alleppey backwaters
The near airport to Alleppey is Cochin International Airport, which is around 60 km away. If you want, you can also pre-book a taxi from your hotel in Cochin or from the airport. Do not forget to pack enough cash, a flashlight, a mosquito repellent, identity proof and so on.