House Boat Day Cruise

Kumarakom, located in the backwaters of Kerala, India, is renowned for its picturesque houseboat cruises. A day cruise on a houseboat in Kumarakom offers a tranquil and scenic experience, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the region. Here’s a description of what you can expect on a Kumarakom houseboat day cruise:

### Start of the Day
– **Arrival and Boarding:** Your day begins at around 10:00 AM when you arrive at the Kumarakom jetty. You’ll be greeted with a traditional welcome, and after a brief introduction, you board your houseboat. The houseboat is typically well-equipped with modern amenities, including comfortable seating, dining areas, and in some cases, air-conditioned bedrooms.

### Morning Cruise
– **Scenic Views:** As the houseboat sets sail, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the serene backwaters. The lush greenery, swaying coconut palms, and vibrant birdlife create a mesmerizing backdrop.
– **Vembanad Lake:** The cruise takes you across the expansive Vembanad Lake, the largest lake in Kerala. The calm waters and gentle breeze make for a peaceful journey.
– **Village Life:** You’ll pass by small villages along the backwaters, offering a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of the locals. Fishermen at work, children playing by the water, and women washing clothes along the banks add to the charm.

### Lunch on Board
– **Traditional Kerala Cuisine:** Around noon, the houseboat anchors at a serene spot, and you’re served a delicious lunch on board. The meal typically includes a variety of Kerala dishes, such as rice, sambar, vegetable curries, fish fry, and traditional pickles, all prepared with fresh local ingredients.

### Afternoon Activities
– **Exploration and Relaxation:** Post-lunch, the cruise resumes, giving you more time to relax and enjoy the surroundings. You can lounge on the deck, read a book, or simply soak in the tranquility.
– **Bird Watching:** Kumarakom is part of the Vembanad Bird Sanctuary, and the afternoon is a great time for bird watching. You may spot species like kingfishers, herons, egrets, and, if you’re lucky, migratory birds like the Siberian crane.

### Tea and Snacks
– **Evening Tea:** In the late afternoon, the houseboat anchors again, and you’re served tea or coffee along with traditional Kerala snacks like banana fritters (pazham pori) or tapioca chips. This is a perfect time to enjoy the sunset views over the backwaters.

### Return and Departure
– **End of Cruise:** By around 4:00 PM, the houseboat returns to the jetty. You disembark, feeling refreshed and rejuvenated from your day on the backwaters.

### Highlights
– **Photography:** The scenic beauty of the backwaters offers ample opportunities for photography, capturing the essence of Kerala’s landscape and lifestyle.
– **Cultural Experience:** Interacting with the houseboat crew and observing local life provides cultural insights into the region.

A day cruise on a Kumarakom houseboat is a delightful way to experience the natural and cultural richness of Kerala, making it a memorable addition to any travel itinerary.