Kerala Houseboat Experience – Cruise Through the Backwaters

Kerala, the bespoke, surreal destination on Earth, invites travelers from all over the world to come and just slow down in the lap of nature. This heavenly South Indian state boasts a dramatic landscape, featuring almost all shades of green and mirror-like backwaters. 

Visiting this place is not just about seeing the beauty, but actually feeling it within. The serene ambiance is utterly rejuvenating, and the panoramas are far more than spellbinding. Additionally, it offers the visitors a treasure trove of experiences all wrapped around its lush biodiversity, pristine beaches, and soulful traditions. 

One such beautiful and must-try is the Kerala houseboat experience, where each second will feel like a dream. If you’re wondering why, then this well-curated article is just right for you! Keep reading till the end and plan your extravagant Kerala vacation exclusively with JustWravel!  

Everything You Need To Know About The Ultimate Kerala Houseboat Experience

Kerala is widely regarded as the Land of Unforgettable Wonders. Also known as the ‘God’s Own Country’, this majestic state offers travelers a mosaic of experiences that cater to every mood and soul. Its popular houseboat experience is gaining significant popularity these days, and we’re here to enlighten you on every aspect of it. 

Floating Through the Heart of Kerala: Why Houseboat is a Cherished Experience?

The houseboat experience, also known as a Kerala backwaters stay, is a cherishable journey in a luxurious, well-maintained houseboat that takes you through the calm, glassy backwaters. Over the past few years, Kerala’s experience has evolved from a local gem into a global travel icon, embracing the concept of slow, soulful travel. 

Now it has become extremely popular and a must-see experience due to its uniqueness. Floating in expertly crafted wooden houseboats is an experience not available everywhere. And in Kerala, it’s all the more captivating due to its strategic location in the backwaters. 

Where tourism experiences were once about exploring the “crowd-loaded” places, this houseboat experience in Kerala is all about living peaceful moments in nature, allowing your soul to relax and take a break from the noise of urban city life.

The scenic charm of Kerala’s backwaters has also played a key role. The location is tranquil, surrounded by lush greenery, and features a hint of shimmer in the water beneath. Another reason for its rising fame is the perfect balance between comfort and tradition. 

Today’s houseboat cruise in Alleppey blends rustic charm with modern amenities, including air-conditioned rooms, delectable Kerala cuisine, and personalized service, all while preserving the craftsmanship of the traditional kettuvallam. It’s a luxury that doesn’t disconnect you from the landscape but keeps you wrapped in it.

The Route & Scenery of the Kerala Houseboat Experience 

The houseboat experience will be all about gliding slowly in the beautifully crafted kettuvallams, which were once used to transport rice and spices. These boats now offer travelers a peaceful escape through the state’s emerald canals, sparkling lagoons, and quiet villages. 

While on your houseboat cruise in Alleppey or Kumarakom, you will be slowly taken through the small yet scenic villages over glass-like waters. The entire experience will be calm, allowing you to spend actual time in nature. 

Regarding the route, it often passes through serene stretches of the Vembanad Lake, the largest in Kerala, with its striking, shimmering waters—a view that is highly sought after by tourists. The backwaters around Kuttanad, known as the “Rice Bowl of Kerala,” offer a rare sight of farmland below sea level, showcasing human ingenuity in harmony with nature.

With every turn, you’re going to witness the dense mangroves, graceful egrets, and lily-covered lagoons. The evenings turn out even more special, where sunset paints the sky in beautiful shades, making the entire surroundings and the panorama even more magical. 

And as your trusted travel partner, we couldn’t recommend it more. Book your Kerala vacation with us today!

Types of Houseboats in Kerala

The Kerala houseboat experience is undoubtedly one of a kind, allowing travelers a more unique experience. Kerala’s houseboats, or kettuvallams, are categorized into different types, allowing tourists to choose according to their budget and travel preferences. There are a variety of options to choose from, ranging from budget-friendly experiences to luxurious floating retreats, each promising the same scenic and soulful journey, differing only in the level of comfort selected. 

Here are some of the top choices of the Kerala Houseboats: 

1. Deluxe Houseboats

The Deluxe houseboats are a top choice among travelers who prefer comfort, all while staying in the budget. These boats feature four fully air-conditioned bedrooms, clean attached bathrooms, and a well-maintained dining area that opens out to the scenic waterways. And, what could be better than savoring a delicious meal while soaking in the picturesque views? The meals will be freshly prepared and served with supreme delicacy.  

2. Premium Houseboats

One step above the Deluxe Housebots comes the Premium ones, featuring even finer interiors and experiences. With spacious lounges and sundecks, these houseboats also feature glass-paneled windows in the bedrooms, allowing for stunning views while you rest. Additionally, the striking wooden furnishings and modern bathrooms are worth noticing. This will be an upscale, personalized dining experience. 

3. Luxury and Ultra-Luxury Houseboats

As the name suggests, this is an even more premium experience for travelers seeking indulgence. The Luxury and Ultra-Luxury Houseboats are all about the five-star experience and unmatched comfort on water. The travelers will be treated with plush suites, private balconies, jacuzzis, mini bars, and even Wi-Fi on select vessels. Many travelers opt for an ultra-personalized experience, along with private chefs, candlelight dinners, and curated itineraries. 

4. Traditional Non-AC Houseboats

These houseboats are for those who wish to savor the experience just as it should be– breezy and close to nature. This houseboat experience is authentic, where the boats are crafted using coir ropes and bamboo, embodying the traditional essence of the old kettuvallam. Visitors can enjoy the refreshing breeze of the backwaters in traditional, non-AC houseboats. 

5. Honeymoon Houseboats

Ideal for couples, the Honeymoon houseboats are specifically designed for the comfort and enjoyment of couples. They feature cozy interiors, much romantic décor, and add-ons like candlelight dinners, exquisite floral bed arrangements, and dreamy sunset cruises. A few houseboats even feature private jacuzzis and balconies for an ultimate magical experience.

6.  Family and Group Houseboats

These houseboats feature four to six bedrooms, each with its own private bathroom. The common areas include dining spaces and halls. The itinerary for these houseboats is often extensive, allowing families and groups to make the most of their experience, including stops at villages, which provide an intense taste of Kerala’s culture and life along the backwaters.

7. Shared or Budget Houseboats

The last one is the shared or budget houseboats, which are explicitly designed for budget-conscious travelers. The meals and the overall experience will be excellent. Please note that if you choose the shared or budget houseboats, you will have to share the dining space with other guests.  

What to Expect on a Houseboat Stay

The houseboat cruise in Alleppey greets you with the following experiences, right from the moment you step into your houseboat: 

1. First, when you enter your chosen houseboat, you will be warmly greeted by the crew with genuine Kerala hospitality. You will get a towel and a cool drink to refresh yourselves. Following this, you will meet your captain, chef, and the housekeeper. 

2. You will be taken to your cozy, well-furnished bedrooms featuring double beds, clean bathrooms, and air-conditioning (in most categories). 

3. One of the best highlights of the Kerala houseboat experience is the food onboard, heartily prepared by the chef. It will mainly include fried prawns, a thick and spicy fish curry, rice, coconut-rich vegetables, and a sweet payasam for dessert. 

4. Scenic views all around. After having your meals, you can choose your spot to stand/sit and soak in the views of the surroundings. You can even enjoy photography, meditate, or relax– just as you desire! 

5. After sunset, the boat stays docked at a safe point near the shore. The night will be quiet and peaceful, where all you can hear is the soft sounds of crickets, water ripples, and gentle breezes. 

6. Next day, you can wake up early to enjoy the surreal sunrise views and a savory, filling breakfast. 

No crowds, no rush– that is how your Kerala houseboat experience will be. 

Book now the desired houseboat stay experience with our customized Kerala Tour Package today! 

Activities & Experiences You Shouldn’t Miss

If you’ve opted for a houseboat cruise in Alleppey, then you must not miss experiencing the following:

• The surreal sunrise and sunset views, when the backwaters turn truly glittering and magical. 
• Savoring views when the houseboat drifts through narrow canals lined with lush greenery, lotus-filled lagoons, and coconut palms.
• Leaving your favorites aside and trying the local delicacies, such as fish curry, appam, and coconut-based dishes, on board. 
• Enjoy village views from a floating vantage point and take tours (if included in your itinerary) for a deeper cultural immersion. 
• Avoid listening to loud music; instead, cherish the gentle rhythm of the backwaters. It offers the perfect opportunity to meditate, read, or just soak in the serenity.

Book now – exclusive Kerala Tour Packages await! 

Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

Before onboarding the houseboat, you must take care of the following: 

• The Kerala houseboat experience is all about peace and enjoying the calmer backwater surroundings. Most travelers enjoy this experience just as it should be by keeping conversations soft and avoiding loud music. 
• Avoid planning your journey during the monsoon season, as the backwaters will be overly active and the surroundings will have unclear views. 
• Pack light clothing, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat. 
• Be sure to try the freshly prepared Kerala dishes on board, especially the seafood curries and traditional vegetarian meals. 
• Avoid planning a rushed journey for the houseboat experience. Keep it relaxed to enjoy it fully. 
• Bring cash with you, as most boats accept payments upfront, and use it to pay for small tips or purchases in local villages along the route.

The Kerala houseboat experience is one-of-a-kind and should be opted for by every nature lover. The serene experience will definitely captivate your souls, and the gentle sounds of the backwaters will truly soothe your mind. If you’re ready, then hurry and call our experts to design a perfectly personalized package for you! 

Book your Kerala Tour Package with JustWravel today! 

Frequently Asked Questions