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.
