Kerala Backwaters Homestay: A Hidden Gem in India You Must Visit

Discover Kerala's Enchanting Backwaters: The Ultimate Homestay Experience

Kerala, often called "God's Own Country," is known for its picturesque landscapes, vibrant culture, and unique experiences. Among its many treasures, the serene backwaters of Kerala stand out as one of the most serene and beautiful tourist destinations in India. What makes Kerala’s backwaters even more captivating is the opportunity to experience the region through a homestay, providing travelers with a more intimate and authentic connection to the land, culture, and people.

Kerala Backwaters Homestay Experience

When it comes to exploring the Kerala backwaters, a homestay offers you a chance to experience the local way of life. Whether you choose to stay in a traditional Kerala houseboat, a cozy riverside cottage, or a heritage home in the heart of the backwaters, a homestay brings you closer to the stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of Kerala.

The backwaters consist of an intricate network of lagoons, lakes, rivers, and canals, surrounded by lush green landscapes and traditional villages. You can enjoy the peace and tranquility of the backwaters while staying in a homestay that serves you home-cooked meals, offers guided tours through the region, and allows you to witness the daily life of the local Keralan community.

Best Time to Visit Kerala Backwaters

Kerala’s backwaters are a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on the kind of experience you’re looking for:

• November to February: This is the peak tourist season when the weather is cool, pleasant, and perfect for exploring the backwaters. The temperature ranges between 24°C to 32°C (75°F to 90°F), making it ideal for outdoor activities such as boating, sightseeing, and village walks.

• March to May: The weather starts to get hotter, but if you prefer fewer tourists and lower prices, this can still be a good time to visit, especially if you're prepared for some heat.

• June to September (Monsoon Season): While the monsoon season brings heavy rains, it’s also a great time for those who love the idea of the lush green landscape and the romance of the rains. However, this period is less ideal for outdoor activities due to the frequent rain showers.

How to Reach Kerala Backwaters

Kerala is well-connected to other parts of India and the world, making it easily accessible for travelers. Here’s how you can reach the backwaters:

1. By Air: The nearest international airports to Kerala’s backwaters are:

   • Cochin International Airport (COK): About 60 km from Alleppey and Kumarakom.
   • Trivandrum International Airport (TRV): For those visiting the southern backwaters.
   • Kochi International Airport (COK): Ideal for those visiting the northern backwaters.

   Once you land, you can easily reach the backwaters by private car, taxi, or public transport.

2. By Train: Kerala’s rail network is well-developed, with several major stations like Kottayam, Alleppey, and Kochi connecting you to the backwaters. The scenic train ride through the lush landscapes is a pleasant experience.

3. By Road: Kerala is well-connected to major cities via national highways. You can hire a taxi, rent a car, or take a bus to reach your homestay. The roads are well-maintained, and driving through Kerala’s beautiful landscapes is a delightful journey.

4. By Boat: Kerala's backwaters are accessible by boat rides, which add an adventurous twist to your journey. You can board a houseboat at various locations like Alleppey or Kumarakom.

Top FAQ's About Kerala Backwaters Homestays

1. Are Kerala Backwaters Homestays safe for tourists? Yes, Kerala backwaters homestays are generally safe for tourists. Most homestays are managed by locals who have been hosting travelers for years. It's always a good idea to choose homestays with good reviews and recommendations.

2. How much does a homestay in Kerala backwaters cost? The cost of a homestay varies depending on the type of accommodation, location, and amenities. Prices typically range from INR 1,500 to INR 5,000 per night per person, with higher-end options offering more luxurious stays.

3. Can I go on a houseboat cruise from the homestay? Yes, many homestays offer the option of taking a houseboat cruise through the backwaters as part of their package, which is a highlight of the Kerala backwaters experience.

4. What activities can I do during my stay at a Kerala backwaters homestay? Guests can enjoy a variety of activities such as:

• Boat rides through the backwaters
• Fishing trips
• Village walks or bike rides
• Visiting nearby temples, spice plantations, and wildlife sanctuaries
• Traditional Kerala cooking lessons and cultural experiences

5. Is it easy to find vegetarian food at Kerala backwaters homestays? Yes, Kerala is known for its excellent vegetarian cuisine. Most homestays offer authentic Kerala-style vegetarian dishes like dosa, appam, sambar, and Kerala sadya (traditional feast). You can always ask for specific dietary preferences in advance.

---

Conclusion:

Kerala’s backwaters offer a unique and peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. A homestay in this region not only allows you to experience the tranquility and beauty of the waterways but also gives you the chance to immerse yourself in the local culture. With the right planning, you can enjoy a memorable and fulfilling trip that leaves you feeling connected to nature and the warm hospitality of Kerala.

Whether you’re visiting during the cool months of November to February or prefer the lush rains of the monsoon season, Kerala’s backwaters will provide you with an unforgettable experience.

So pack your bags and get ready to explore the hidden gems of India by staying in a Kerala backwaters homestay!

Kerala Backwaters Tourism - A splendid Travel Experience

Backwaters Tourism in Kerala - A splendid Travel Experience

The houseboats of today - huge, slow moving, exotic barge used for leisure trips - are the reworked Kettuvallam of olden times. The original Kettuvallam were used to carry tones of rice and spices - a standard Kettuvallam can hold up to 30 tones - from Kuttanad to the Kochi port. Traditional Kerala houseboats, Kettuvallam, glide past, powered both by gondolier-like boatmen with poles and by sail. Kerala's houseboat cruising is not just restricted to the backwaters, you also get a chance to explore the wildlife and indulge in some water sports such as water skiing, water sailing and angling. The most popular backwater cruise is from Kollam to Alappuzha / Alleppey.

Kettuvallam, the stitched boats provide the best way to experience the colourful backwaters of Kerala. The Kettuvallam of Kerala are giant country crafts, measuring up to 80 feet in length. The traditional houseboat, the indispensable part of the picturesque backwaters of Kerala, was mainly used in Travancore and Kochi and in the Minicoy Islands in olden times. The wood commonly used to make Kettuvallams is 'Anjili', which is found in abundance in central Travancore area. Large planks are tied together using hand made coir ropes and beaten coconut fibers. This gives the Kettuvallams enough strength to withstand heavy waves in the sea. These long cargo boats are a familiar sight on the backwaters. These traditional Kerala houseboats undoubtedly form one of the most abiding images of the backwaters in Kerala.

Today, these goods carriers have been adapted to make the most exciting tourism product in India, the luxuriously furnished houseboat. Kettuvallams or the 'house-boats of Kerala' dot the serene palm-fringed backwaters of Kerala.

Enjoy The Backwaters of Kerala: A sojourn in Kettuvallams, the Houseboats of Kerala, offers a panoramic view of one of the most picturesque aspects of the God's Own Country. One can cruise in it through the palm-fringed backwaters, throughout a night in waxing moonlights. The lullaby of the waves and the dazzling delights of the moonlit night can be experienced by spending a couple of nights aboard the Kettuvallam. The traditional houseboat of Kerala is one of the most enduring images of the backwaters. These houseboats of Kerala are converted version of the "Kuttanadan Kettuvallams".

Kerala Houseboats - The Luxury in Water: Kettuvallams, the large traditional boats are converted into floating luxury dwelling units. These house boats are available in all sizes and shapes, the most popular accommodation type being a suite, having one or two bath attached bedrooms, one living room, kitchenette, an open lounge, deck and a crew comprising oarsmen, a cook and guide. The houseboats are generally powered by a small outboard engine, allowing one to cruise along the backwaters. A recent innovation is a small conference room in a houseboat.

The only way to discover the real Kerala is to cruise along its backwaters. You will experience a totally different Kerala as you sail down these soothing waters in a country craft and absorb this unusual representation of Kerala life. Kerala’s centuries-old, palm fringed backwaters stretch over 1900