Kerala - a trip down south to 'God's own country' is as mesmerizing as a reverie! An ideal destination to experience the dense greenery, backwaters, Ayurveda & spa and lip smacking cuisine made with authentic spices grown in it's backyard.
 |
| Tranquil Backwaters of Alappuzha (Alleppey) |
Out of our 8 days and 7 nights in Kerala, one night was spent in a private houseboat in the backwaters of Alleppey - currently known as Alappuzha and the experience was exhilarating! It's tranquil backwaters are soothing and the houseboat cruising in these backwaters is yet another enchanting escapade!
Bookings:
There are approximately 1500-2000 registered houseboats and shikharas in Alappuzha (Alleppey) and they form a major source of employment and revenue generation for many local people.
We had booked a private houseboat (for 2 adults and 1 toddler) through Lakelands Cruise in Alappuzha (Alleppey). The bookings were done almost a month prior to our visit through their website (http://www.lakelandscruise.com/index.php). Houseboats are available on sharing basis with co-tourists or you can book a private houseboat for individual family and rates vary depending on the type that you choose - deluxe, luxury, premium etc. while booking.
We traveled to Alappuzha (Alleppey) from Thekkady by car and it took approximately 4 hours (142 km) to reach.
First-Hand Experience:
The staff was hospitable. We were served with a customary welcome drink upon arrival. Every nook and corner of the houseboat was clean and tidy. The kitchen platform was spick-and-span. The medium-sized windows of the neat and clean master bedroom offered an enchanting view of the backwaters. The bathrooms were speckless and well maintained in hygienic condition.
 |
| Bedroom with a Spectacular View |
Living area was open & spacious and the television set entertained us at night once the boat was berthed. Also, it was well equipped with life jackets and fire extinguishers at strategic points.
 |
| The Open-Living Room |
In the evening, around 5ish, the cruising stopped and the boat was berthed near Vembabanad Lake in Alappuzha (Alleppey). At dusk, a canopy of mosquito net covered the houseboat. Thus, protecting us from mosquitoes, bugs and other insects. Night was cosy as we curled up to catch up on some family time. 👪
Cruising started again in the morning around 8ish to reach the exit point as we got ready to checkout and head towards Kochi. Finally, bidding adieu to the amazing one night stay that we had.
Food:
The dining table was placed in the open hall-room of the houseboat, enabling us to enjoy the complete view of the backwaters as we sailed through the green lagoon. Food was fresh with an authentic local cooking style that we relished. Meals were simple but delectable. Major meals included lunch, dinner and breakfast in the morning before our departure and evening snacks and fruits to binge on - on the day we boarded.
 |
| The Dining Area👆 and the Aisle👇 |
Best Time to Visit:
Mid October to March as winters make the weather more pleasant. Though we traveled during mid May, we didn't face any problem with respect to the hot & humid weather condition as there were mild showers in between.
Looking forward to another such escapade that resonates with dense greenery and the calm backwaters. :)
 |
| Backwaters, take me back :) |
Photo Credits:
House Boat Alappuzha
Contact for bookings: 8078207812, 9633969963
1 comments
Backwaters are calling back
ReplyDelete