The backwaters of Kerala are not only a wonder of nature but are rightfully the backbone of the tourism of Kerala. Unique in its type and unlike anything else in terms of the richness of nature that it offers, the backwaters of Kerala is something that every person must visit at least once in his or her life.
No wonder why, not just Indians, but a huge foreign tourists travel to Kerala every year. Despite the popularity of the Kerala backwaters and the houseboats in Alleppey that take you for a ride through the backwaters, there are many things that are still not known or clear to many. If you are thinking of traveling to Kerala for encountering the beauty of the backwaters, here are a few things that you must know about the place before you make your trip. Knowing about these things will help you to enjoy the place and its beauty to the fullest.
1. Alleppey or Alappuzha – the Venice of the East
The backwaters of Kerala, though is spread over a vast region which has many entrances and exits, Alleppey or Alappuzha is probably the most popular one. This is because it is located in the center of the region and a trip to the Vembanad Lake, the most famous lake amongst a total of 5 lakes in this region, is best enjoyed from this place.
2. Kerala Houseboats
The houseboats in Alleppey, also known as Kettuvallams are a piece of art. It is unlike any other houseboat that you might have ever ridden on, in India or abroad. Beautiful cane designs and the traditional shape and style of these houseboats make them visually stunning. Also, unlike many other houseboats, these houseboats move along the backwaters and take you to the different parts of the vast lagoon.
3. Boat Race
Every year, boat races are held in the backwaters of Kerala. The two most important places where the boat race is enjoyed with most vigor and splendor are Alleppey and Kollam. Hence, if you visit Alleppey during the boat race season, you will be able to see a new and different side of the backwaters that is reserved only for a particular time of the year, usually in August. But, the demand for houseboats is huge during this time. So, it is best to book your Alleppey houseboat packages in advance.
4. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
The Kerala backwaters are home to a vast variety of flora and fauna. With lush and dense greeneries on both sides of the backwater coasts, you will be able to find a huge variety of birds, some of which are exclusive only to this region. A cruise ride to Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary will take you to the place from where you can encounter maximum birds.
5. Keralian Ayurvedic Spa and Massage
As you must know, Kerala is a storehouse of all the best things that nature has to offer. This can be seen in the form of Ayurveda as well, which is a huge practice in Kerala. If you book a luxury houseboat in Alleppey, you will be able to take a smaller boat at the end of your daily ride, which will take you to one of the local Ayurveda massage and spa centers.
6. Fishing While Boating
If you have a prior permission, you can also enjoy fishing in the Kerala backwaters during your stay in the houseboats. But of course, for that, you must choose the best Kerala tour packages that will allow you to enjoy most of this place.
You can book your houseboat online or visit Alleppey in person to book the houseboat of your choice. If you are staying at a resort in Kerala, you can also ask them if they have their own houseboats. Most of the time the resort owners have their own houseboats and they can arrange one for you without any trouble.
Vipin Nayar
Company name: Tours In India.
Site: https://toursinindia.in
