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In the stillness of Kerala's backwaters, where coconut palms dip into emerald waters and the air carries the quiet, steady rhythm of village life, there is a chance to pause. But enjoying this beauty comes with a responsibility to protect it.
For a traveller, acting mindfully means more than just taking in the view; it's about ensuring our presence doesn't disrupt the delicate balance of the water, from reducing plastic waste to respecting the quiet privacy of the shoreside communities. The story of Xandari Riverscapes, a unit of The Muthoot Group, is rooted in a simple yet enduring vision: to provide tourists an authentic and responsible backwater experience that reflects the rich cultural heritage of God's Own Country, Kerala.
This connection between the traveller and the environment is why sustainable houseboats have become so vital. It is here, in the backwaters of Alappuzha, that Xandari Riverscapes, a fleet of houseboats by Xandari Resorts, invites travellers to rediscover the art of slow, meaningful living.
Kettuvallams: The Legacy of Riverscapes
For ages, the iconic Kettuvallams have navigated the backwaters of Alappuzha. These boats were once used for carrying rice and spices, playing a vital role in the region's trade and livelihood. Crafted from nature's own resources, such as wild jackfruit (anjili) wood, bamboo, coir ropes, and bamboo mats, without the use of a single nail.
At Xandari Riverscapes, the legacy and heritage of the region are thoughtfully reimagined. Inspired by the traditional design, each houseboat at Riverscapes reflects a time machine to the past and the future of timeless craftsmanship with modern comfort. Each houseboat is a harmony between tradition and thoughtful design, welcoming modern travellers seeking comfort and depth.
Experiences Beyond Cruise
A journey with Xandari Riverscapes, you glide through the scenic backwaters of Kerala, but it is also an invitation to step into the rhythm of Kerala's life. Travellers can dive into an exploratory journey through special canoe ride offered by the resort through the village canals, learning the villagers' way of life, exploring the quaint waterways, walking through local communities, watching the age-old practice of toddy tapping, and experiencing the flavours of Kerala through freshly prepared local cuisine.
Now, the cruise is transformed from a water ride to an immersive experience where travellers have the opportunity to engage with the cultural and ecological rhythms that define the backwaters of Kerala.
Responsible Tourism on the Water
Luxury is often mistaken for simple comfort, but to most of us, it feels like something deeper, an experience that goes beyond ease and touches a sense of meaning and personal connection. At Xandari Riverscapes, it is a blend of comfort and consciousness where responsibility is woven into everyday operations.
Long before sustainability became a global conversation, Xandari's commitment to sustainability is reflected in all its initiatives. A clear reflection of Xandari's commitment to balancing comfort and sustainability is the launch of the Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) on its houseboats in 2005. At the time, when environmental regulations were still evolving, Xandari Riverscapes became the first and only houseboat operator in the region to install the system on its boats.
The STP system ensures that any wastewater that is produced on board is treated before it is discharged into the water, reducing pollution and protecting the sensitive ecosystem of the backwaters in Kerala. Nearly two decades into the practice, it continues to function as the heart of Xandari's operations as a foresight, responsibility, and consistency. Rather than adopting it as a trend, Xandari has treated these initiatives as a long-term responsibility.
Clean Water, Reduced Plastic
With its foundation on STP, Xandari Riverscapes has introduced a Reverse Osmosis (R.O.) Water Purification System at its base operations. This purified water is utilised for cooking and consumption on board, ensuring that all travelers are provided with the utmost levels of hygiene and premium care. It also provides safe drinking water for all travelers on board, eliminating the need for plastic water bottles, marking a huge shift in the backwater management ecosystem, creating a new normal in the sector.
Where Luxury Meets Harmony
In the serene expanse of Kerala's backwaters, Xandari Riverscapes showcases that sustainability can be achieved without compromising on quality and comfort. Depicting that luxury when combined with sustainability, elevates the experience, creating a new definition.
The essence of Xandari lies in waking up to serene emerald backwaters, tasting authentic local cuisines, celebrating local food traditions, hearing the quiet splash of paddles, and the simple joy of knowing that every journey respects the delicate environment that makes the experience possible.
At Xandari Riverscapes, sustainability is not a feature; it's a legacy. One that has been nurtured over time, and continues to shape experiences that honour both place and purpose.
