Kerala is a land of natural beauty and greenery. It is known for its beautiful hill stations like Munnar, Wayanad and Thekkady, its golden sandy beaches of Kovalam and Payyambalam, and its unique backwaters at Alleppey and Kumarakom. If you are looking for a vacation idea in Kerala, you have several options for you. The backwaters are a distinct feature of Kerala, and cruising this network of lagoons, canals, lakes etc. will make an unforgettable experience for you. The visitors can feel heaven on Earth when they are in Kerala. It is treasured for its immense beauty and culture.
Vacations need to be planned well, no matter where you plan to go. Here are 10 Things to know before you book Alleppey Houseboats:
Know the category and size of the houseboats
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If you are wondering about how many days to stay in the Alleppey boat house, it totally depends on your budget. Fix a budget and then explore what type of houseboats are available in that range. Explore the various categories of houseboats and check out the amenities being offered like air conditioning, bathtub, Wi-Fi, A/V entertainment equipment, and so on. Finding the Perfect Alleppey Houseboat Package for Your Family is easier when you plan beforehand and book the right houseboat as per your budget, which is suitable for your needs.
The largest lake In India is situated in Vembanad, and it is also known as the Venice of the East. It’s a serene beauty to behold and one must not miss this when you plan a trip to Alleppey. As you sail down the backwaters, you will be enthralled by its scenic beauty; the coconut grooves, the variety of birds and aquatic animals, the lush paddy fields on its banks, and the myriad varieties of flora.
There’s something available in Alleppey houseboats for everyone. Alleppey will not leave anyone disappointed. If you are a nature lover, then God’s own country will enthrall you with mesmerizing beauty. If you are a city dweller, you can enjoy peace and tranquility without having to forego modern amenities. When you book a cruise on an Alleppey houseboat, you can experience a number of activities like fishing, spa, village walk, traditional dance or music performance, and so on. Hence, everyone has something interesting to do in Alleppey. Your experience, of course, entirely depends on your budget and the type of houseboats you choose.
Here’s a look at the different types of houseboats available:
Shikara is generally popular in Kashmir. Did you know it’s available in Alleppey too? These houseboats are usually for a minimal amount of time, like 4 hours or 6 hours. If you want to have a short cruise, then Shikara houseboats are perfect for you. These boats may or may not have restroom facilities, but have good seating arrangements. The top is covered and they have life jackets for your safety.
These houseboats are inspired by the traditional architecture of Kerala homes. They are usually available for multiple-day cruises and are larger than shikaras. They float along on the backwaters serenely, enabling you to drink in the surrounding landscape and idyllic rural life unfolding as you observe it all from the balconies and open seating areas. Kettuvallams are made of local wood that is treated to ensure it doesn’t rot The most interesting part in these houseboats is that no nails are used to hold the planks together, rather coir ropes are used to tie them. The top is covered with thatch made from the coconut tree branches. A gooey resin made from cashew nuts is used on the wood to waterproof it. The roof is shaped into rectangles and the thatch is shaped into arches, giving it an enchanting appearance. These kinds of Alleppey Houseboats Are the Best Choice for a Family Vacation in Kerala. Many people can be easily accommodated and there is a lot of space for playing around in the open areas.
There are different categories in houseboats based on sizes, number of bedrooms, amenities and so on. When you travel as a large group, it is easier to hire an entire houseboat than booking rooms in small or medium houseboats. We help you in Finding the Perfect Alleppey Houseboat Package for Your Family.
You can choose from Standard, Luxury and Premium houseboats. While the basic amenities like a bedroom with attached bathroom, a cook/attender and a boatman are provided on all types of houseboats, certain amenities may differ based on the houseboat category.
For instance, a luxury houseboat will definitely be fully A/C, with an open sundeck for you to enjoy the scenery and soak in the ambience. It will also have extra amenities like Wi-Fi, internet connection, TV, Karaoke set, bathtub, jacuzzi, and more luxurious furnishings and fixtures, plusher sofas, fabulous decor, and so on.
A budget houseboat will not have these additional features. If you want to save even more money, you can book a room in a large houseboat, sharing it with other families or couples. While you may have less privacy, it will work out much cheaper. It is similar to booking a room in a hotel where you have privacy in your room but have to share the dining area, pool, gym and garden with other guests. You can also meet more people and mingle with them on such houseboats.
Here’s a detailed look at the different categories:
These are budget-friendly houseboats with standard facilities, like a comfortable bedroom and sitting area, and may not be air-conditioned. Due to their lower cost, it’s a popular category, and it ensures a memorable backwater cruise. Think of it like booking a room in a hotel. You have your own private bedroom, but share the dining hall, lobby, pool, and other amenities with other hotel guests.
Deluxe houseboats are posher than standard houseboats, and boast modern amenities like luxurious bedrooms with air conditioning, en suite bathrooms, hot water, etc. The interiors are done up better, and there is a well-equipped kitchen on board where delicious meals can be whipped up for the guests. Such houseboats often feature an open sundeck or balcony to bask in the sunshine and enjoy the natural breeze as you sip on drinks and munch into delectable snacks.
Premium houseboats are a mini version of deluxe houseboats. They are very comfortable and have all the amenities that deluxe boats have. They are also known as the honeymoon houseboat, as they offer luxury at an economical price and the small size makes it cozy and romantic.
These are the poshest and most luxurious houseboats, of superior quality, and offer a superlative experience on the fabulous backwaters of Kerala. Spacious, well-appointed bedrooms with large windows to let you enjoy the scenic views without stepping out of your room, attached bathrooms often with bathtub, jacuzzi etc., large and comfortable indoor seating area, large open sun deck or balcony, TV, Wi-Fi, karaoke or other entertainment systems,opulent decor, and so on. These houseboats come with well-trained attendants and cooks who can conjure gourmet dishes or traditional local delicacies as per your wish, and can even get you the day’s fresh catch for the authentic Alleppey experience.
When you book a houseboat, there are many activities and amenities that await you. One of the biggest advantages of an Alleppey houseboat cruise is that you get to enjoy five-star amenities at budget prices! Discover the best way to book a houseboat in Alleppey by visiting the ATDC site. You can choose to book the boat for a few hours if you just want the cruising experience. For a truly immersive experience, we recommend you book a minimum of two nights. However, an overnight stay can also be exciting and eventful.
The charges you pay include food and all the amenities. In addition, you get attendants like boatman, cook and/or attendant to help you with your requirements. The cook can serve you the fresh catch of the day as your meal, and we can arrange some traditional dance performances like Kathakali or Mohiniyattam for you to watch.
All you need to do is to enjoy and relish nature and get pampered by the staff. Why are you still waiting? Book Alleppey houseboats and enjoy a real taste of Kerala! Our staff is happy to help you with any query you may have with regard to the booking process.
