The backwaters in Kerala, a true gem of “God’s Own Country,” offer a unique blend of tranquillity and scenic beauty, providing the perfect escape from the fast pace of everyday life. Surrounded by swaying palms and picturesque villages, it offers a relaxing escape from the urban hustle. You can experience this serenity on a kettuvallam or a houseboat. These houseboats are equipped with cozy wooden rooms and serve delicious local cuisine – all while you enjoy pristine views of the water.
As winter sets in Kerala, the region truly comes alive with misty mornings and soft sunlight, thereby enhancing its natural beauty. Moreover, cruising on a traditional houseboat allows you to bask in the peaceful rhythm of life along the water. Whether you’re seeking warmth, scenic beauty, or simply a rejuvenating getaway, Kerala’s backwaters promise all that and more. Check out the best places to visit for the perfect houseboat experience.
Best Places To Visit For The Perfect Houseboat Experience
- Kumarakom
- Kollam
- Thiruvananthapuram
- Alleppey
- Kasargod
1. Kumarakom
If you’re a nature lover seeking nothing but pure bliss, then the serene Kumarakom backwaters in Kerala are ideal. Moreover, a relaxing walk through the villages and interactions with the simple life here can make you rethink, at least once, if all that urban hustle is actually worth it. In fact, the tranquil surroundings offer an escape that’s hard to resist, while the warm hospitality of the locals adds to the charm The experience of living in the houseboat here on the Vembanad Lake, the largest freshwater lake in the state, is unmatched.
While cruising amidst these charming backwaters, you can catch a glimpse of various bird species like kingfishers, darters, and terns, which are rare. If you’re traveling as a couple, the houseboat operators will even set up candlelight dinners. It’s a vacation that’s ideal for honeymooners and families alike.
Best time to visit: Between November and February
How To Reach:
By Flight: The nearest airport to Kumarakom is Cochin International Airport. From here you can travel 80 km to the city via state buses or privately hired cabs.
By Train: Kottayam Railway Station is closest to the city. The distance of 16 km between the two destinations can be covered by cabs/taxis.
By Bus: Kumarakom is well-connected to most cities in Kerala via state transportation.
2. Kollam
Earlier called Quilon, the Kollam backwaters serve as a gateway to Kerala’s expansive network of waterways. It’s famous for the scenic Ashtamudi Lake, a 16-kilometer stretch that forms the longest backwater in the state. Named after its unique eight-channel formation, the Ashtamudi Backwaters offer a houseboat experience you won’t forget!
The houseboat rentals around the lake are available in various budgets and preferences, with options ranging from intimate boats for couples to larger vessels that can host up to 15 guests. You must stay on a houseboat for at least one night to enjoy the lake’s calm beauty. There’s also a chef onboard on these bigger boats who prepares delicious Kerala meals, specializing in fresh seafood and traditional flavors. Even the smaller houseboats have a cozy room and an open common area for relaxing as you drift along the serene waters.
Best time to visit: Throughout the year
How To Reach:
By Flight: Trivandrum International Airport is 66 km from Kollam, making it the closest. The remaining distance can be covered by a local bus which will take you straight to the city.
By Train: You can reach Kollam directly as it has its railway station.
By Bus: Kollam is well-connected via NH-47, NH-220, and NH-208 to major cities in South India.
3. Thiruvananthapuram
Nestled between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats, the backwaters in Kerala, particularly around Thiruvallam, Velli, and Kovalam, are truly ideal for a houseboat experience. Just 6 km away from Thiruvananthapuram, Thiruvallam backwaters are easily accessible, which is why they’re a popular choice for tourists looking to explore the state’s scenic waterways.
You’ll find several operators allowing you to rent a houseboat in the area. Care for some advice? A bit of friendly bargaining often leads to good deals here. As you cruise, don’t miss spotting the iconic Lighthouse Beach, the peaceful Neyyar River estuary, and the historic Pieta Church. You can even stop, go, and explore them from up close if you wish. The revered Sree Parasurama Temple along the way on the shore adds a touch of spiritual significance to the journey.
A houseboat trip through these backwaters captures the untouched beauty of Kerala, making it a worthwhile experience for you.
Best time to visit: Throughout the year
How To Reach:
By Flight: You can fly directly to Trivandrum International Airport.
By Train: Thiruvananthapuram Central Railway Station is well-connected to most parts of the country.
By Bus: NH-66 links the state’s capital to several cities within Kerala and most major cities in the South.
4. Alleppey
Colloquially known as Alappuzha, Alleppey is the hub for houseboat experiences in Kerala. Located 62 km south of Kochi, the winding canals here open up to the wonderful scenery of paddy fields, coconut groves, and silent islands. Staying on a houseboat while exploring all this, is like sailing through the picturesque paintings you drew as a child in which the boat would cross through fields and islands.
Traditional Kerala cuisine, cozy interiors, and panoramic views from the deck make for the best romantic getaway, making it popular among couples. Alleppey backwaters really leave you spellbound with serenity and silence, thus giving it a very special status as a honeymoon destination.
Best time to visit: Between October and February
How To Reach:
By Flight: Cochin International Airport is the nearest means to reach by airways. From here there are direct cabs that’ll drive you to Alleppey (52 km).
By Train: Alleppey Railway Station lies in the city center and is connected to most cities in Kerala.
By Bus: NH-47 not only links Alleppey to most cities within Kerala but also to cities like Bengaluru, Chennai, and Coimbatore.
5. Kasargod
Kasargod, a coastal town in Northern Kerala, is a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural diversity – an ideal setting for a memorable houseboat experience. Known for its majestic forts, rolling hills, serene backwaters, and pristine beaches, this destination is perfect for those seeking both relaxation and adventure. While you can explore the forts and hills on another trip, let this one be about the backwaters.
A cruise here lets you live in calm through its tranquil waterways while treating you to scenic landscapes and glimpses of local life along the shores. The houseboat services here are slowly gaining popularity, drawing tourists from nearby cities to experience Kasargod’s charm.
Best time to visit: Between September and February
How To Reach:
By Flight: Mangalore International Airport is the closest to Kasargod. From here you can easily reach us via local buses.
By Train: The city has a railway station that is linked well to most parts of India.
By Bus: Kasargod is well-connected to most South Indian destinations via NH-66.
Summing Up
Backwaters in Kerala hold the power to keep you captivated and invested in nothing but nature. Cruising on houseboats is a unique adventure that won’t get your adrenaline pumping but will rather get your endorphins boosting, and sometimes the latter is more necessary. To get exactly the right dose of those “happy hormones”, pick your favorite destination from the list above and head off to live on a houseboat!
FAQs
Which place in Kerala is best for houseboats?
The best places in Kerala for houseboats are Alleppey and Kumarakom.
Is Alleppey Backwaters Worth It?
Yes, the Alleppey backwaters experience is absolutely worth it, as it treats you to a serene, calm ambiance along with stunning vistas. Moreover, this enchanting journey offers an escape into tranquility, while the picturesque surroundings leave you mesmerized.
Which Backwater In Kerala Is Best?
The best backwater in Kerala is in Alleppey. It’s surrounded by nature and is often dubbed as “Venice of the East.”
Can I Swim In Kerala Backwaters?
No, avoid swimming in the backwaters as there are aquatic snakes and other creatures in the water.
Which Month Not To Visit Kerala?
One shouldn’t visit Kerala between June and August as the torrential monsoons often cause widespread flooding.
