The Houseboat Experience in the Backwaters of Kerala

If Kerala in South India is on your travel list, you definitely cannot miss the houseboat experience in the backwaters of Kerala. Called God’s Own Country, Kerala is a paradise for nature lovers, and the Kerala backwaters only enrich the experience. In this blog, we explain the pros and cons of a houseboat experience, give you an overview of the prices, and introduce you to alternatives.

What are the backwaters and what is a houseboat?

A unique network of waterways comprising 29 lakes and lagoons, 44 rivers, and 1500 kilometers of canals and water channels make up the backwaters in South India. This beautiful ecosystem is home to a variety of flora and fauna and is the highlight on a trip to Kerala.

The backwaters are well-known for their motorized houseboats which allow visitors to cruise through the calm waters. Originally, traditional boats called “kettuvallams” were used to transport spices, rice, and other goods through the backwaters. In the local language, “kettu” means “to tie or stitch” and “vallam” means boat. The name refers to the traditional construction method of these unique boats. Even today, the boats are made from anjili wood (wood of the jackfruit tree) and bamboo, and the planks are tied together with coconut or palm fibers – not a single nail is used in its construction! Today, the houseboats are a modern version of the kettuvallams.

Rules for houseboats in the backwaters

The rise in tourism has led to a rise in the number of houseboats in South India in recent years. This is not necessarily good news for the environment, which is why there are strict rules and regulations in place. The number of boats has been limited. A new houseboat is allowed only if an old one is retired. Plus, there are fixed places where a houseboat can travel and where it can be docked. These restrictions aim to protect the natural ecosystem and curb the increasing environmental pollution caused by the motorized boats.

What to expect from a houseboat experience

• A houseboat in the backwaters of Kerala is a beautiful experience, but your plan should depend mainly on your travel schedule during the stay and the number of travelers.
• A typical houseboat stay lasts for 21 hours, with check-in at noon and checkout between 9 and 10 a.m. the next day. If you arrive late on the day of check-in or need to leave early the next morning, the houseboat stay may not be worth it as you wouldn’t get enough time to experience it properly.
• Once you are aboard, you cruise through the canals and lakes for around 3 hours before docking at a lake or a small island where you spend the night.
• There will always be a boatman and caretaker on board to ensure safety and comfort. You are served delicious South Indian meals, authentic specialities, and fresh fish and fruits throughout the stay.
• A houseboat has space for you to lie down and relax so that you can enjoy the backwaters in peace. Sometimes, you can dock at an island and explore the region on foot as well.
• A classic houseboat usually has one bedroom for two people, but there are also larger boats with two or three bedrooms. However, the bigger the boat, the fewer canals and lakes it can navigate through due to its size. The cost of a houseboat for a day can range from INR 5000 to INR 25000 or more, depending on the amenities and added luxuries such as a rooftop terrace.

Rooftop terrace

Reasons to avoid a houseboat experience

• A houseboat offers a peaceful experience, but you don’t really get much insight into life in the backwaters. Plus, there are strict restrictions on where houseboats can travel and dock. You won’t get too close to any wildlife, local culture, and natural landscape of the backwaters. Living on water can also feel slightly isolated.
• We usually do not recommend houseboats for solo travelers, as the experience, although relaxing, can get lonely. The houseboat experience is ideal for 2 to 4 people.
• Another important aspect is the environmental impact. Motorized houseboats require fuel and produce emissions that cause a lot of noise and water pollution, affecting the fragile backwaters ecosystem. It also disturbs the local wildlife.

Alternatives to houseboats in the Kerala Backwaters

You don’t have to stay in a houseboat to truly experience the Kerala backwaters. There are plenty of amazing accommodations and homestays that allow you to truly experience the local life of Kerala.

Some accommodations are located on private islands in the backwaters, complete with all the necessary amenities, such as the gorgeous Riverdale resort. On the other hand, you can stay at the many homestays in the region and enjoy authentic food, immerse yourself in the daily local routine, and support the community sustainably.

In such accommodations, you can explore on foot or rent bicycles and go for small trips along the backwaters. You can also rent a canoe and explore the backwaters. A canoe ride allows you to navigate the narrow canals and experience nature a lot more closely.

You can also take boat rides on smaller non-motorized kettuvallams, rowing boats, or the public ferry.

Canoe ride

We hope this blog helps you make an informed decision about whether or not to choose a houseboat in the Backwaters of Kerala! Regardless of your choice, we, at India Someday, are here to plan the perfect trip for you, tailored to your preferences!