Have you ever planned a vacation in Kerala – “God’s own Country”? What do you usually do, book train or flight tickets, plan which places to visit, which temples or churches to visit, which hotels to stay in, what facilities they have and so on? Why not think anything different? Look at Kerala from a different angle. Let’s think about the various water bodies that Kerala houses and how to travel through Kerala in a different way!
Think of the Houseboats of Alleppey! Being on a houseboat can be an enchanting experience. It really does have a fairytale feel. The serene backwaters, the beautiful sunsets and sunrises, entrancing sceneries, the aromas of native Kerala and its spices – it is all just like a dream come true.
Contrary to what some might think, the houseboats of Alleppey are extremely comfortable and something that you should experience. They have all the amenities as well as luxuries. In fact, these houseboats cater to various kinds of budgets.
The houseboats of Alleppey pass through some beautiful paddy fields and coconut groves. The expanse of green everywhere, the color of the water and the serenity can be quite something to behold. If you are thinking of a romantic getaway or some quiet time ‘me’ time – this is just for you. The serenity and tranquility, the soothing waters can heal many a painful heart! For nature lovers and those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of a busy routine or city life; this is something that you should experience at least once in your lifetime. The houseboats of Alleppey let you be one with nature and enjoy nature in a different way.
Kinds of houseboats –
If you are on a low budget or do not mind sharing then there are shared houseboats that you can share with other families or couples; though most people prefer private houseboats. There are different kinds of packages offered. Depending on the package you take and the duration of stay the houseboats would take the intended route and travel the backwaters or else even stay stagnant in water.
The usual routes that are offered are –
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Alleppey to Kumarakom and back.
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Alleppey to Kumarkom to Thottappally to Nedumudi and back
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Alleppey to Vembanad Lake and back
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Alleppey to Alumkadavu
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Alleppey to Champakulam to Chennamkary to Kainakary and back.
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Kochi to Fort Kochi to Alleppey
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Munnar to Kumarakom
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Kumarakom packages
What facilities can you expect on a houseboat?
The kind of facilities and level of luxury would depend on the cost of the package. But generally, you would be provided with a living room and bedroom. Basic facilities like furnishings with bathrooms are provided. There are spacious balconies and sit-outs wherein you can view the sceneries and enjoy a leisurely time. The décor may not be too luxurious if you are on a budget, but it will be traditional and gives you an airy and well-ventilated feel.
What kind of food can you expect?
Generally, the houseboats in Alleppey have professional chefs that excel in Indian delicacies. They mostly provide you with Kerala cuisine so you can have the ultimate experience of this state. However, they can cater to all kinds of taste buds. If you are looking for some customization; it can also be accommodated, though it needs to be informed ahead.
Depending on the kind of service you expect and kind of houseboat, the package cost can start from INR 6000 to 150,000. The kind of décor, furnishings, food, and amenities would differ based on the pricing. So you can choose your package depending on your budget. Whatever kind of package you might choose this is one experience that you should have.
If you like something rustic then go for a route that will give you views of paddy fields and coconut groves. You will get to see the authentic houses of Kerala, people toiling in their respective fields. You will see the very heart of Kerala. If you are looking for something more romantic and exotic you can even enquire about candlelight dinners and sunset views. There are several honeymoon houseboat packages too for newlyweds or couples trying to reconnect. Nature in every form, cool breeze against your hair, the occasional downpour and the soothing feel of the water, the tranquility will make you want to come again and again.
Whatever kind of plan you choose for traveling on a houseboat in Alleppey will definitely be something that you will remember for a lifetime. And you most definitely will not be able to keep down your camera at all. The sights that you see would be worthy of cherishing and capturing. This trip would be a proper rejuvenation for your body, mind, and soul and will give you an experience that you will remember for a lifetime.
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