Sit back and relax in the Water boats of Kerala while taking in the mesmerizing backwaters of Kerala.

God’s Own Country- Kerala. No other set of words can do justice to how true this statement is. A land that as soon as mentioned takes you to the feeling of Tranquillity, Divinity, and Purity that even after years of Human Inhabitation, makes Kerala feel like an Untouched Humble Abode Fit for Gods. In addition, to visit Kerala is to Visit one of God’s Finest Creation. Be it the Art and Craft, Culture, Cuisine, Look and Feel of the State, Traditions, or even the Architecture, it is impossible to hate anything at all about this crowning Glory of the South of India.

Image Credits – The financialexpress.com

However, no matter how long you plan on staying here, no amount of days seems sufficient to enjoy the beauty of Kerala. If you are on a time restraint but want to experience the authenticity of Kerala in full glory, we have an on-the-move solution for you- Water Boats of Kerala.

Kettuvallams of Kerala and the Backwaters: A marriage made in Heaven.

With Kerala being home to 34 Backwaters, Houseboats or Kettuvallams are a common sight in the fresh waters of the region. What are Kettuvallams? These are Houseboats that can be used as Tourist accommodation and significantly add to the value of Kerala Tourism and Experiences. These Houseboats were originally used to transport rice to the fertile land near the backwaters. Also, today these Houseboats or Water boats are modified into Luxurious accommodations with all facilities like Well ventilated air-conditioned Rooms, Fully functioning washrooms and restrooms, dine-in and done-out areas to enjoy wine and dine with the stunning view of the backwaters of Kerala.

Today there are about 2000 Water Boats (Kettuvallams) and Kerala Tourism especially has classified these into Silver, Gold, and Platinum based on the experience and quality of accommodation they have to offer. The staff on the Houseboat ensures the guests have a pleasant experience and look after everything right from serving authentic Keralite Cuisine, ensuring the boat stands still while indulging in lip-smacking lunches and dinners, and also making sure the ride is a smooth one without any jerks or water turbulences. All Kettuvallams are motorised.

Image Credits – Viator.com

The Tariff or Price of renting a Waterboat in Kerala

  • Indigenous Houseboats a luxurious Water Boat Tour operator company provides the following pricing based on the packages you choose.
  • Deluxe House Boat Rates: starts at Rs 6,500 for 1 Bedroom occupancy and goes up to Rs 20,000 for 5 Bedroom occupancy that comprises the entire water boat.
  • Premium House Boat Rates: starts at Rs 9,000 for 1 Room and goes up to Rs 27,000 for 5 rooms (complete occupancy).
  • Luxury House Boat Rates: Starts at Rs 10,000 for 1 room and goes up to Rs 40,000 for complete occupancy of the water boat.

Additional Details about Houseboat Packages mentioned above

Indian Government levies taxes on the rent of these houseboats.
Also, the Tariff Includes the cost of Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Tea/Coffee, and evening snacks.
Houseboats stop moving from 6 in the evening till 7 in the morning and are on the lakeshore .
50% payment has to be made in advance while booking the houseboat and the rest can be paid later.

Where can one find House or Water boat in Kerala?

  • Thiruvananthapuram
  • Kollam
  • Kottayam
  • Alappuzha (Alleppey).
  • Ernakulam
  • Thrissur
  • Kasaragod
Image Credits – Tripbibo.com

The Lip-smacking Cuisine served at the Water boats of Kerala

  • You can indulge in some of the finest dishes of the region with the most authentic of Keralite cuisine:
  • Karimeen Pollichathu ( marinated and steamed pearlfish)
  • Kappa Biryani
  • Roasted Duck
  • Puttu (spicy preparation of steamed fish), etc.

Vegetarian Options are also available with the best of Rasam Rice, Sambars, and a range of Vegetable stews, etc.

To put it all together, it is always a great idea to indulge in a laid-back, relaxing vacation at the backwaters of Kerala enjoying one of these beautiful Kettuvallams of Kerala. Once you get your hands on this experience, a part of you will always want to come back to the still yet heart-moving waves of the backwaters of Kerala.

Follow India Chalk on Instagram for more amazing travel content. You can share your travel story with us. Reach out to us on email at contact[at]ndiachalk[dot]com. This blog is curated by India Chalk and written by Megha S.

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