Backwaters in Kerala have perhaps taken the lead in terms of roping in
tourists. These backwaters, however, aren't mere water bodies but have
numerous facets attached to them. While you undertake a journey to explore
the lagoons, lakes, canals and estuaries of the state, keep in mind that you
are going to get acquainted with the very basic and quintessential features
of Kerala.
The backwaters extend over a length of around 1,900 km. The routes of these
water bodies are very ancient and served in the past as the trading routes
for items including coconut, rubber, rice and spices. Today, there are
important link tiny remote villages to the mainland and other key
destinations of the state. A trip to these backwaters will surely prove to
be an experience of a lifetime.
Backwaters and houseboats go hand in hand. These giant houseboats are the
perfect option to cruise along the lakes and lagoons of Kerala. Exclusively
made, these houseboats come along with fine luxurious facilities including
two bedrooms with attached bath, an open lounge, deck and kitchenette along
with a crew comprising oarsmen, cook and a guide.
Chief backwaters in Kerala include :
¤
Kumarakom Backwaters
¤ Thiruvananthapuram Backwaters
¤ Thiruvallam Backwaters
¤ Kollam Backwaters
¤ Alleppey Backwaters
¤ Kottayam Backwaters
¤ Cochin Backwaters
¤ Kozhikode Backwaters
Luxury Backwater Trips
Houseboat cruises are available for a number of durations, ranging from a
night to a couple of days and nights. An overnight cruise around Alleppey is
one of the exciting options to begin with. And it's a surety by the time you
finish your overnight journey, you'll already be planning a longer duration
cruise. There is a lot to feast your eyes on while you sail along. There are
to see and enjoy the natural riches, beaches, historical remnants, temples
and even an exotic wildlife. Bird fanciers will truly love the sights at the
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary.
Facilities on board the houseboat include luxuriously appointed bed rooms
(A/C & non A/C with attached bathrooms), kitchen with Continental,
Chinese and Indian dishes, running water, twin beds, hygienic storage hold,
sun deck etc.
The starting range for a backwater trip is Rs 6,000/ person/ night. A total
of around 300 houseboats sail along the backwaters and booking a backwater
trip is not very difficult except during the peak seasons.
Kerala
