EYE SOOTHING SCENERIES & SOULFUL EXPERIENCES: WHAT TO EXPECT ON YOUR DREAM ALLEPPEY HOUSEBOAT TRIP – A COMPLETE TRAVELLER’S GUIDE
If Kerala’s charm is calling your name, there’s no better way to answer than with an Alleppey Houseboat Cruise. Imagine yourself gliding peacefully through the tranquil backwaters stretching as far as the eye can see, where swaying palm trees and lush green paddy fields create a picture-perfect scene and the soothing sound of water lapping against the boat serenades your ears – how magical is that? This isn’t just a trip; it’s the ultimate Kerala experience waiting for you!
A houseboat cruise in Alleppey is a must-do experience, whether it’s a Day Cruise or an Overnight Stay under the stars. Curious about what makes this magical journey so special? From the life of locals on the banks, and the mouth-watering Kerala cuisine served onboard, to the exciting activities you can enjoy during the cruise, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know. Whether you’re wondering if Alleppey Houseboat Trip is worth it or what you can expect to experience throughout the trip, we’ve got it all covered in this blog.
Choosing The Right Houseboat For Your Cruise
When it comes to selecting your houseboat, you have a range of options to suit your preferences and budget. There are traditional houseboats that showcase the rustic charm of Kerala, and then there are luxurious, modern houseboats that offer the comfort and amenities of a high-end hotel.
Types of Houseboats:
- Deluxe: These are the basic, affordable houseboats with essential amenities, ideal for budget travellers.
- Premium: A step above, premium houseboats feature better amenities, air conditioning, and more personalized services.
- Luxury: Offering top-notch comfort, luxury houseboats provide spacious rooms, modern interiors, and high-end services, perfect for those seeking a more exclusive experience. Some houseboats even offer super luxurious amenities like a Jacuzzi and sunbath decks.
Houseboats come in all sizes, from intimate one-bedroom vessels perfect for couples to larger, multi-bedroom boats that can accommodate families or groups. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or a family vacation, you can choose the houseboat that best fits your needs. Houseboats have now become popular venues for special occasions like weddings, pre-wedding photoshoots, birthday parties, and family & friends reunions. The unique ambience and serene surroundings of the backwaters provide a perfect backdrop for such events.
HOW MUCH DOES A HOUSEBOAT CRUISE IN KERALA COST?
The cost of a Houseboat Cruise in Kerala can vary depending on several factors, including the category of the houseboat (Deluxe, Premium, or Luxury), the time of year (peak or off-season), weekend or weekday, the type of cruise (Day Cruise or Overnight Stay), and the duration of your stay.
CHECK-IN & TIMINGS FOR THE CRUISE
A Day Cruise typically starts at 12 PM (noon) and ends at 4 PM. For an Overnight Houseboat Cruise, your journey begins with a check-in at 12:00 PM (noon) at the designated docks in Alleppey, such as Punnamada, Champakulam, or Pallathuruthy. The check-out time is 9:00 AM the next day. During the night, the boat will anchor at the same dock around 5:00 PM, allowing you to explore the village life up close or take a leisurely evening walk.
HOUSEBOAT FACILITIES AND CREW:
Each houseboat is typically managed by a crew consisting of a captain and a chef, who ensure your journey is smooth and hassle-free. You’ll have access to private, air-conditioned bedrooms equipped with modern amenities, including clean bathrooms. Life jackets and first-aid kits are standard on most houseboats, ensuring that your trip is safe and worry-free.
WHEN TO PLAN YOUR ALLEPPEY HOUSEBOAT TRIP?
The best time to enjoy an Alleppey Houseboat Trip is between October and March, when the weather is cool and pleasant. If you’re someone who enjoys the charm of rain-drenched landscapes, the monsoon season (June to September) offers a mystical experience, although the high humidity and occasional heavy showers might not appeal to everyone.
STARTING YOUR CRUISE WITH A WELCOME DRINK:
Once you check in, you’ll be welcomed aboard with a refreshing welcome drink -the perfect start to your houseboat adventure. As the boat sets sail, you’ll glide through the beautiful Vembanad Lake and its surrounding canals, immersing yourself in Kerala’s lush scenery.
SCENIC SIGHTS ALONG THE BACKWATERS:
As your houseboat cruises through the backwaters, you’ll get a glimpse into the tranquil village life. The sight of palm groves swaying in the breeze, endless green paddy fields, and flocks of ducks swimming alongside the boat creates a postcard-worthy view. You’ll get a glimpse into the simple pleasures of village life along the backwaters, as you watch locals fishing, washing clothes, and children playing near their homes. Watching a diverse array of boats from serene houseboats and canoes to speedy motorboats and speedboats gracefully cruise across the vast Vembanad Lake is a fantastic spectacle that will leave you mesmerized!
You’ll also come across ancient temples, local tea shops, and small stalls selling fresh seafood and snacks on your way. Keep an eye out for the numerous bird species, including kingfishers, egrets, and cormorants – perfect for birdwatching enthusiasts.
A FLOATING MARKET EXPERIENCE:
Just like the floating markets in Kashmir or Vietnam, Alleppey offers its own version. During your cruise, vendors will approach your houseboat in canoes or speedboats, offering tender coconut juice, ice cream, and snacks, which you can buy and enjoy while taking in the views. You can even stop at small markets to purchase fresh seafood like prawns, crabs, etc. which the chef onboard will cook for you.
LUNCH WITH A VIEW
Around midday, the houseboat will anchor near the paddy fields for a delicious Kerala-style lunch. The chef prepares traditional Kerala lunch featuring local ingredients, and the menu typically includes rice, Karimeen Fry (Pearlspot fish), Fish curry, Sambar, Thoran (vegetable stir-fry), pickle, pappad, and many more. It’s a true Kerala feast that will leave you satisfied as you continue your journey through the backwaters.
POST-LUNCH ACTIVITIES
After lunch, the cruise resumes, taking you through more scenic villages and beautiful landscapes. Some houseboats offer fishing rods, allowing you to try your luck at catching fish right from the boat. You can also opt for a peaceful canoe ride through the narrow canals, offering a closer glimpse of the beautiful village life. For thrill-seekers, kayaking, speed boating, and other exciting water activities are available for an additional fee. For those travelling in groups or with family, it’s a great time to relax, play games, or even sing and dance to make the most of your experience.
TEA TIME AT SUNSET
In the evening, the crew will serve you tea or coffee along with traditional Kerala snacks like Pazhampori (banana fritters) or Onion Pakora. Enjoy your snacks as you watch the sun dip below the horizon, casting a golden glow across the water – a perfect end to your day on the water.
EVENING AT THE VILLAGE
By 5:30 PM, the houseboat anchors for the night. This is a great time to step off the boat and explore the nearby village, visit Alleppey Beach, or do some shopping. Some luxury houseboats even have their own private docking areas with facilities like swimming pools and indoor activities, adding a touch of luxury to your stay.
DINNER & OVERNIGHT STAY
Return to the houseboat for a delicious dinner, usually featuring rice, chappathi, chicken curry, and dal fry. If you have dietary preferences or restrictions, most houseboats are happy to accommodate them. After dinner, relax on the deck under a starlit sky, surrounded by the peaceful sounds of the backwaters – a truly unforgettable experience.
THE NEXT MORNING: BREAKFAST & CHECK-OUT
Your houseboat cruise resumes at 8:00 AM the following day. Enjoy a traditional South Indian breakfast of Idly, Dosa, Puttu & Kadala Curry (chickpea) or Appam with Egg Curry, or opt for a continental breakfast with bread, butter, jam, and juice. By 9:00 AM, you’ll return to the dock, bringing your houseboat adventure to a close.
TIPS FOR A MEMORABLE ALLEPPEY HOUSEBOAT EXPERIENCE
- Book in Advance: Houseboats are in high demand, especially during the peak season.
- Pack Light: Bring only the essentials, like light clothing, sunscreen, and a camera.
- Choose the Right Boat: Make sure to select a houseboat that fits your needs, whether it’s a cosy one-bedroom for a romantic trip or a larger boat for a family gathering.
CONCLUSION:
As you prepare to embark on your unforgettable journey through the enchanting backwaters of Alleppey, you’ll soon discover that this houseboat adventure is so much more than just a typical vacation. It’s a chance to create cherished memories amidst breathtaking scenery and the warmth of Kerala’s vibrant culture. From the serene waters that gently rock your boat, lulling you into a tranquil state of mind, to the delightful flavours of authentic Kerala cuisine that tantalize your taste buds, every moment on a Houseboat is a celebration of life and nature.
So why wait any longer to book your Alleppey Houseboat Cruise and dive into a world where picturesque landscapes, vibrant village life, and captivating experiences await? No matter your purpose for visiting – whether it’s to enjoy a romantic getaway with your significant other, to create lasting memories with your loved ones, or to host a truly unique and memorable celebration – the picturesque backwater paradise of Alleppey has something to offer everyone. Embrace the allure of Kerala’s backwaters, and let your adventure begin!
Pack your bags, grab your camera, and set sail for the ultimate houseboat getaway in Alleppey – Your dream escape is just a booking away!