One of the first things you’d think of when you think of Kerala, are the stunning, yet serene backwaters of Kerala, the rich and diverse greenery and landscapes and of course, Alleppey, thanks to its unique houseboat experiences. Planning the perfect backwater tour in Kerala requires careful consideration of every aspect to ensure that you make the most out of your trip. This guide offers you step by step instructions on how to plan the perfect backwater trip in Kerala that is tailored for you..
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Backwaters are essentially a network of interconnected canals, lakes and rivers stretching across the coastline. Kerala’s backwaters, likewise stretch across the state’s coastline, lining the districts from Alappuzha (Alleppey) to Kochi. Famous backwater destinations in Kerala include Alleppey, Kumarakom, Kollam and Kochi and each destination offers you unique experiences from the houseboat journey to cultural immersion.
Choosing the right destination is always important for you to make the most out of your trip. To plan the perfect backwater trip in Kerala, you must choose the right destination that is perfect for you. Alleppey, also known as the “Venice of the East,” is the most famous option as it is known for its unique houseboat experiences and expansive waters. Kumarakom is also another well known spot for houseboat tourism, known for its quiet, tranquil waters and natural diversity.
You might be wondering, is the houseboat experience in Alleppey, Kerala worth it? The answer to that would be a loud YES. Alleppey houseboats are floating paradises that glide across the rich greenery of Alleppey, offering you a one of a kind experience that can’t be experienced elsewhere.
You might be wondering when is the best time for houseboating in Alleppey. The best and peak months for a houseboat cruise is during the winter. October to March is the peak month for Alleppey boat house cruises. During this time, the weather is pleasant and favourable with cool breezes swaying along with you, and clear skies reflecting the jovial mood makes it the most ideal time for you to explore the stunning backwaters of Alleppey. Monsoon season, however, is limited comparatively because of heavy rains limiting outdoor activities.
When planning your perfect backwater cruise in Alleppey, choosing the perfect houseboat for you is key. You must choose the type of houseboat that will suit your budget and requirements, the duration of your stay (half day to overnight stays to multiple days) and the facilities offered by the houseboat. Alleppey houseboat packages are extremely versatile and hence can cater to a lot of your preferences. Choosing the right houseboat for you will help enhance your experience during the cruise.
There are certain experiences that you should not miss during your stay at a Kerala houseboat. A houseboat experience is incomplete without trying Kerala’s local dishes mastered by the chef’s on board. Authentic Kerala dishes like Appam and fish curry are freshly prepared on board for visitors to savour. You can also explore villages to get to know their lifestyle and witness the traditional artistic skills like coir making, weaving, toddy tapping and during festive season, you can also witness how festivals are being celebrated. Visitors can also partake in birdwatching with so many bird sanctuaries nearby. The backwaters are truly a gift for avid bird enthusiasts. Witnessing the sunrise and the sunset is the best possible way to start and end your day. Watching the sunrise and sunset from the deck of your houseboat is truly a sight that you would not want to miss.
Budgeting is perhaps one of the, if not, the most important part of planning any trip. It is important to consider all the aspects of your trip to set the budget. Alleppey houseboat options start from the price range of INR 5000 per night for budget users to INR 50,000 for luxury visitors. Researching thoroughly and booking it in advance can help you secure the best deals for the cruise.
Before going on any trip, packing is an essential step. For a houseboat experience you shall pack light. However, you must not forget to include the following essentials:
A houseboat trip always promises you a memorable trip. Whether you are staying overnight or just for a few hours, it is certainly an experience to remember. Here are ways you can enhance your trip:
While Alleppey is the most popular destination, the crown jewel of Kerala, there are a lot more destinations that offer exciting backwater destinations. Places like Kumarakom, Kollam and Kochi offer unique backwater experiences, each different from one another. Kollam is tailored for the nature enthusiasts, whereas the Kumarakom route is for the bird lovers who love birdwatching.
The answer to the question of how to plan the best backwater tour in Kerala requires a lot of preparation and thought put into it, making it perfectly catered for you. The best part of planning is, you get to choose your destination, houseboat type- budget or luxurious, and the duration of your stay. With the stunning water bodies, the brightly rooted culture and heritage of Kerala, coupled with the unmatched hospitality gives you the perfect spot for a vacation or a small retreat you deserve. Kerala’s backwaters, whether it is Alleppey, Kumarakom or Kollam, everything promises you a memorable journey. Whether it’s your first visit or a return journey, the magic of Kerala’s backwaters will leave you spellbound.
