India Backwater Tours

Backwater refers to water that has been forced back into its original direction in a river channel by an impediment, an opposing current, or the tide. The local community is populated along the banks of these backwaters, which run between embankments. The backwaters, which are surrounded by dense coconut tree plantations, are frequently a lovely pastel green because of the development of algae on the surface. Backwaters of Kerala and Goa must be mentioned when discussing lakes and rivers in India. The Malabar Coast, also known as the Arabian Sea Coast locally, is where the Kerala backwaters, a chain of brackish lagoons, are located.

The pinnacle of elegance, style, and comfort, kettuvallams in Kerala or wonderfully made houseboats in Goa, are used to tour the backwaters. These houseboats are a lovely combination of old world charm and modern luxury. These houseboats, which are outfitted with all contemporary conveniences, are the ideal way to take in the calm and quiet of India's picturesque backwaters

Houseboats are a modified version of the country boats that were once used to transport cargo from one location to another. It's fascinating to note that not a single nail was used in the construction of these houseboats, which are made by tying together enormous jackwood planks. Houseboats with one to 10 bedrooms are currently available. Each of them has a kitchen, a living room, a dining room, and a bedroom with an attached bathroom. Some even feature an independent dining area and balcony, an upper deck, a glass wall, etc.

Most houseboat tours last a single day or longer. A houseboat can be rented for shorter or longer periods of time, though. The top canals, interior settlements, and farther-flung waterways will all be covered in a three-night journey. But, if you want to visit a lot of the tiny canals or experience rural life, a quick three-hour ride might not be enough. A houseboat excursion can be combined with a resort or homestay stay along the backwaters. Several lodgings own houseboats and provide overnight and sunset tours.

 

No, the Kerala Government has prohibited operating any kind of engine-powered boat from 5.30 p.m. to 7.30 a.m. until the next day because local fishermen toss their fishing nets in the lake and backwater.

 

 At Alleppey, Marari, Kumarakom, etc. there are primarily two types of houseboats: deluxe houseboats and premium houseboats. Premium houseboats, as the name implies, are superior to deluxe houseboats since they have a full complement of plush interiors, opulent furnishings, and high-end services. For instance, whereas ACs are available 24/7 in premium houseboats, they are only available from 9:00 pm to 6:00 am in deluxe houseboats. In most upscale houseboats, visitors can also take advantage of the wide variety of cuisine options, candlelight dinners, Jacuzzis, and shower panels. On early notice, some upscale houseboats can even make plans for events like weddings and anniversary parties.

 You have a wide selection of houseboats to choose from, ranging from those with one bedroom to those with 10 bedrooms. Some houseboats even contain a living room, dining room, and kitchen in addition to the associated toilet in each bedroom. Other features seen on some houseboats include glass walls, upper decks, balconies, and private dining areas. In houseboats, 3 staff members are often on duty (captain, chef and driver).

The two main cruises that are offered are day trips and overnight stays. Day cruises generally require check-in by 11.30 am, and check-out by 5:00 pm. Check-in for overnight trips often occurs between 11 and 11:30 am, and check-out at 9 am the following day. Every meal is provided on the houseboat.

Kerala is considered to be a treasure trove of backwaters. Some of the best backwater experiences can be availed at Kuttanad, Alleppey, Kumarakom, Kottayam, Munroe Island, Thiruvallam, Kasaragod, Ashtamudi, Kavvayi, etc. are gem of the places when it comes to backwaters exploration in Kerala.
 

Few tourists are aware that Goa is another renowned location for backwater cruises in India, even though the majority of tourists associate Kerala with the country's backwaters. Although the concept of houseboat cruise on Indian backwaters is the same, the actual experience is very different from that of Kerala. Houseboats cruise the Chapora River in Siolim and carry you along picturesque paths surrounded by embankments that offer a glimpse into the life and culture of the inhabitants for those interested in cruising among the lovely backwaters of Goa.

In some houseboats, visitors can engage in activities like indoor gaming, fishing, etc. During overnight stay cruises, visitors can also stop by the village, church, temple, and other nearby sights after the houseboats are anchored in the evening.
highly recommended: When reserving your houseboats, be sure to specify whether you'd want a canoe ride.

 

The houseboat crew pays close attention to the demands of the visitors. Also, they receive specialised training in first aid and life-saving methods in case an emergency occurs. Hence, there is no need to be concerned about safety.

Pre-reserving is advised if you want to rent a houseboat in Alleppey during the busiest times of the year. Even though there are spots available for spot reservations, popular houseboats typically fill up quickly. So, it's usually a good idea to make reservations in advance if you prefer staying on well-known and reputable houseboats.

Shikara boat and motor boat trips are reasonably priced and offer backwater enjoyment for about Rs 500 to Rs 1000 per hour, not per person. Shikkaras can accommodate between 1 and 20 adults, while motorboats can carry between 10 and 60 adults. Another affordable choice is a canoe trip. If you want to travel with the locals, there are ferry services that run between Kumarakom, Alleppey, and Kollam that only cost a few rupees each way. Houseboats can be rented by the hour during the off-season. Note: These prices can change from time to time. It is always advisable to check with your agent before booking any services.

 

Before your trip, you might need to take anti-malarial medication or get immunised against diseases like polio, typhoid, and others. Nonetheless, we strongly advise that you contact your doctor at least four weeks prior to the vacation date before making any plans. Obtaining the most recent information on vaccinations and other medical precautions is advised before travelling to India. Vaccination and medicine recommendations change based on where you're going in India and how long yo wi'll be there.