There cannot be a more relaxing winter vacation than floating along the waters of Kerala in a traditional houseboat. The backwaters of Kerala are a labyrinthine network of lakes, canals, estuaries, and deltas of the 44 rivers that drain into the Arabian Sea. It's a wonderful ecosystem teeming with life - over a quarter of India's plant species are found here.
There is such an abundance of flora and fauna, nourished by the tropical sun and generous rainfall, that it's easy to understand why Kerala is sometimes called 'God's Own country. And we believe Houseboat Cruise in Kerala is one of the best winter vacation ideas to escape the cold in India
The houseboats, known as Kettuvallam, are magnificent creations that blend in perfectly with their environment. They are made with only the locally grown renewable resources of bamboo and coconut fibre - no nails are used in their construction. They were originally designed to carry crops to outlying communities, but since that trade has now sadly all but ceased, many of them have been converted into luxury houseboats for the tourist trade.
With nearly 1,000 km (625 mi) of Navigable waterways at your disposal, you are spoiled for choice when it comes to thinking about what route to take, but wherever you go will see a traditional India, not visible from any other means of transport. It's a tranquil world of ancient fishing methods, huge water lilies, verdant paddy fields, and villages with thatched roof houses and music shrines. Gliding sedately along, with the songs of birds as your soundtrack and lowering coconut palms sheltering you from the beating sun, there is surely no better place on Earth.
Click here to know more about the Houseboats in Kerala
Highlights:
- Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary
- Rajamala National Park
- The Dutch Palace at Cochin
- Kerala is home to Ayurvedic massage - a therapeutic treat
You should know
Don't be afraid to haggle over price, especially if you are planning an extended Journey. If you haven't booked in advance and are reliant on a local tourist office, take a step back. Those who approach may have paid for the privilege of being there, while just a few hundred metres away there could be a houseboat owner who would offer you the same trip for a fraction of the price.