The backwaters in the state of Kerala, which is also referred to as God’s own country for it’s natural scenic beauty, provide a scintillating experience to anyone who comes here. Living in a houseboat, or Kettuvallam, as they are locally known, is like swinging in the very lap of nature surrounded by all kinds of beautiful flora and fauna. In Kumarakom-around the backwaters of the Vembanad Lake and in Alleppey is where all the activity goes on.
The lake cruises comprise some of the most rejuvenating sights Kerala has to offer, while also giving us an insight into the lives of the people of Kerala, of which rice barge construction, toddy (palm beer) tapping, coir-making (coconut fibre), prawn and fish farming are an integral part. These cruise houseboats have all the facilities of a good hotel, including cozy rooms and a deck converted into something like a balcony. Every boat has a team of cooks and cleaners and you can also shop for seafood and have it cooked on the boat!
The Periyar Lake Cruise is another striking show Kerala is proud to have, with all the wildlife and natural ecosystems. A treat to the eyes of anyone who has ever bird-watched, this raw accumulation of nature is something one cannot miss. October to March is a good time for wildlife spotting because of the natural flourish seen around this time of the year.
The experience of living and cruising in a houseboat is so amazing that Lord Curzon rightly called Kerala and the experience ‘Venice of the East’.
More details at http://tajvoyages.com.au/tour/kerala-tour/
