Houseboat Tourism in
Kerala
Kerala lies in between geographically significant areas of
Western Ghats and Arabian Sea. It is irrigated all over by 44 rivers and
backwaters that add to natural beauty of Kerala landscape. Due to this
astonishing beauty of nature Kerala is placed among the most favored tourist
destination by people all around the world. Kerala has passed certain laws to
protect, preserve and nurture these gifts of nature with sustainable
development of its available tourist destinations.
History of Houseboats
Houseboats in Malayalam known as ‘Kettuvallam’ mainly made of
‘Anjhili’ (Arotocarpus), Bamboo, Fiberglass, Chicken mesh, Marine Plywood and
Rivet. In earlier days they mainly used Anjhili (Arotocarpus), Coir, Fish fat
and Bamboo. They were not used for tourism purpose in earlier days but they
were used for transportation of goods especially rice. They were so huge that
they measured about 75-95 feet long and 12-20 feet width and used to carry a
load of about 10-20 tons weight. But
when time changed they were transformed for tourism purpose.
Famous Houseboat
Tourists Spots
Houseboat tourism is famous in destinations like Alleppey,
Kottayam, Cochin and Kollam. They add to the major chunk of revenue in travel
and tourism sector in these areas. Also they became a mean to prosperity in the
life of people of these areas. About 600 plus houseboats are operating in
Vembanad Lake itself with the approval of government by fulfilling certain
parameters laid by Department of Tourism like Pollution Control Certificate,
Green Palm Certificate for adopting eco-friendly methods etc.
Pricing and Expenses
Depending on the size of crew, these boats can be hired. The
rental charges including food would varies from ₹2000-₹30000 per day. The food
served on houseboats includes mostly variety of dishes made in Kerala style as
well as in western style. Variety dishes made of fish is the specialty of these
boats. These boats are designed in such a way that you enjoy the beauty of
backwaters along with delicious food just like staying in your own home. That’s
why they are called ‘floating homes’. Most of the travelers are fascinated by
the simplicity in these structures that clearly relishes Kerala’s traditional
cuisine. Nowadays travelers prefer the leisure and slow movement of boats than
the motion of mechanized ones. The night stays at these boats along with the
whole sky above and its reflection on water will give a lifelong memorable
experience to tourists.
With this houseboat tourism Kerala established its own
trademark and brand. With Kerala’s tourism brand attained the topmost among 100
other brands in India. Kerala is also highlighted as one among the 50 must
visited destinations in lifetime by National Geographic Traveler and also
designated as ‘Partner State’ with World Tourism and Travel Council due to its
famous Houseboat tourism.
