Things to Know About Kerala, India
Kerala is popularly known as “God’s Own Country” because of its nature, fertile land, culture, and history. It is famous for traditions in music, dance, and food, as well as Ayurveda wellness and spirituality, which make Kerala special.
Located on India’s southwestern coast, Kerala is bordered by Karnataka, Tamil
Nadu, and the Arabian Sea. Malayalam is the main language, while English is
widely spoken in cities and tourist hubs (BEST THINGS TO DO IN HOKKAIDO, JAPAN).
Historically, Kerala was a hub of the ancient spice trade, attracting Arabs,
Chinese, Romans, and later European colonizers. Their influence is still
visible in forts, churches, and cuisine. Today, Kerala is one of India’s most
progressive states, with high literacy and healthcare standards, and is known
for being safe and traveler-friendly.
Kerala
Houseboat
What is unique about Kerala Houseboats? They are eco-friendly and have long
hailed Mother Earth. Made mainly of bamboo poles, coir ropes, coconut fiber,
and wooden planks from local trees like jackfruit wood, the roofs are thatched
with palm leaves, giving them their iconic look. Made without nails, the pieces
are tied together with coir ropes for flexibility and durability.
Known in Malayalam as “Kettuvallams,” these traditional boats were once used to
transport rice and spices through the backwaters. Today, to cater to tourists,
houseboats include bedrooms, kitchens, and bathrooms, yet still feel like a mini
version of a traditional Kerala house.
Kerala
Houseboat Cruises
The first thing for tourists is to know the locations for Kerala Houseboat
Cruises, which can be easily found online or through tour agents. It’s also
important to check prices and the type of cruise. Day cruise or overnight,
number of people, and other details.
While all cruises go through Kerala’s backwaters, the experience can vary by
location. Some cruises are more elaborate, while others are simpler. For those
arriving at Cochin International Airport (COK), this may influence where to
stay before heading for the houseboat cruise.
Popular Cruise Locations
Alleppey
(Alappuzha)
The most
popular option, cruising through wide canals, lagoons, paddy fields, and small
villages along the banks.
Kumarakom
(Vembanad Lake)
Ideal for
luxury cruises, with air-conditioned bedrooms, modern bathrooms, and kitchens.
Cruises pass by paddy fields and villages.
Kollam
(Ashtamudi Lake)
Smaller
traditional Kettuvallams for longer, less crowded routes, with glimpses of
local life along lakes, canals, and villages.
Bekal (North
Kerala)
Smaller,
simpler boats suited for daytime trips. Passengers enjoy quiet waterways, small
islands, fishing villages, and coconut groves.
Kerala Travel
Tours
One of the best ways to experience a houseboat cruise is by opting for a tour,
which may also include other parts of Kerala. This saves the hassle of booking
the cruise online, arranging accommodation, and transport. Tours often include
free time for shopping or other activities. Depending on the itinerary, the
houseboat cruise may start the tour or be slotted between destinations.
Alleppey Kerala
Houseboat Overnight Cruise
Boarding
The cruise starts after breakfast at the hotel, followed by a drive to the
pier. Boarding the houseboat, the crew offers drinks - fresh Kerala coconut
water, coffee, or tea.
Backwater
Cruise
As the boat glides along, the calm backwaters of Kerala unfold, surrounded by
lush greenery. Other traditional houseboats pass by, each unique but made from
natural materials like bamboo, coir, and wood.
After around, more or less 30 minutes, the boat stops at a pier where fresh
Kerala fish is sold by locals (cost not included in the tour). The fish is
selected from what’s available and cooked for lunch on board.
Kerala
Houseboat Lunch
Lunch is a homemade Kerala meal: the fresh fish prepared as Kerala-style fish
roast, along with spiced rice, yogurt, stir-fried vegetables, and papadum
(crispy fried crackers). Full of authentic Kerala flavors, it’s satisfying and
delicious.
Coastal Areas
in Kerala Backwaters
After lunch, the houseboat glides toward the coastal areas, where the waters
widen and sparkle under the sun. Small islands appear, covered with green trees
and coconut palms. Traditional villages line the banks, with sloping tiled
roofs, wooden houses, and fishing boats, showcasing riverside life in Kerala.
By early evening, the boat ties up at a pier for a walk before returning
to watch the sunset on the water.
Dinner in
Alleppey Houseboat
After a shower, dinner is served. another round of Kerala food, often with 4–5
dishes. Portions are generous, and flavors can be spicy. Guests can take their
time to tuck into the meal while the crew cleans up.
Overnight in
the Boathouse
For the night, you can relax in the outdoor seating area or retire to your
room. Sitting outside to watch the serene backwaters at night is a peaceful end
to the day.
End of
Houseboat Cruise
Breakfast the next morning is another round of home-style Kerala food. Chickpea
curry, puttu (steamed rice flour with coconut), coffee or tea, and fresh Kerala
bananas. Within the next half hour, the houseboat cruise concludes.
Kerala
Houseboat Tips
Though the Alleppey Houseboat Cruise is superb, here are essential tips to make
your trip comfortable:
Repellent
Insect
repellent is a must, especially in open areas in the evening.
Towels, Pillow
Covers & Blanket
Hand towels are
usually provided, but bringing your own is recommended. Pillow covers and
blankets help maintain cleanliness and hygiene.
Toiletries
Pack
toothpaste, toothbrush, skincare items, and other essentials.
Showering/Bathin
Water flow may
be weak. Sponging or washing quickly is often easier than a full shower.
Tipping
Not mandatory but customary. The choice is yours.
