How are Houseboats of Kerala and Kashmir Different?
Often called “floating hotels”, houseboats are a popular way for tourists to explore the serene backwaters and lakes of India. Two states famed for their houseboat tourism are Kerala and Kashmir. However, the houseboat experience varies greatly between these exotic destinations.
What are Houseboats?
A houseboat refers to a boat that is designed to be lived in, with facilities and amenities supporting overnight or longer stays. Most alleppey houseboats are equipped with bedrooms, bathrooms, dining areas, sit outs, kitchens, and more to provide comfort, convenience, and memorable vacations cruising scenic waterways.
Kerala Houseboats
In Kerala, houseboats are known locally as “Kettuvallams”. These traditional rice boats with thatched roofs, bamboo poles and wooden planks once transported goods and spices across Kerala’s backwaters.
Today, kettuvallams have been converted into comfortable floating hotels reflecting Kerala’s maritime glory. They allow intimate explorations of Alleppey’s enchanting backwaters, lined by swaying palms, vivid green paddy fields, and bustling waterfront villages.
From budget-friendly Models to luxury houseboats equipped with ACs and modern amenities, Kerala offers diverse houseboat stay options. The experience blends nature, wildlife sightings, delectable Kerala cuisine including fresh seafood, Ayurveda sessions and cultural immersions.
The houseboat tours in Kerala span routes across Alleppey, Kumarakom, Kollam and more. Resorts also organize guided canoe trips into hidden inland waterways inaccessible by road.
Kashmir Houseboats
In Kashmir, houseboats docked on serene Dal Lake are reminiscent of luxury Swiss chalets. Built of intricately carved deodar cedar and pine, they feature unique sloped roofs to prevent snow build up.
The interiors boast ornately carved walnut wood panels, Kashmiri carpets, brass fittings and chandeliers for old-world charm. Bedrooms open onto scenic views of the lake and Himalayas.
Originating in colonial times, Srinagar’s iconic houseboats catered to British officials and aristocracy longing to escape the summer heat of urban centers into the cool climes of the Kashmir valley.
Even today, the Srinagar houseboat experience transports guests into a lifestyle reminiscent of the Raj era. Think butler services, candlelit multi course dinners with champagne, relaxing on silk cushions amidst oriental rugs and piping hot kehwa tea.
Inclusions at top houseboats like Luxury Dal Lake Houseboat by Samara Group feature airport transfers, all meals, shikara rides and cultural shows transporting you into the rich legacies of medieval Kashmir. However, alcohol isn’t served onboard in respect for local sentiments.
Differences between Kerala and Kashmir Houseboats
