Kumarakom – Houseboat Odyssey

Kumarakom was a tiny fishing hamlet on the banks of the Vembanad Lake till the authorities discovered its tourist potential and made it into one of the most sought after tourist retreats. The whole of Kerala state is known for its natural beauty, especially its backwaters and Kumarakom occupies a pride of place among the locations in Kerala where one can enjoy the natural beauty of a backwater and the leisure activities it offers. The whole area around Kumarakom is dotted with small lakes and these are all interconnected by waterways, well served by small boats, ferries and houseboats. A larger area comprising of Allepey and Kumarakom is called ‘Kuttanadu’ in local parlance and is often referred to as the Venice of South India.

A unique feature of Kumarakom is the houseboats. These houseboats have all the facilities of a hotel and one can cruise on the houseboats eating fresh catch of fish from the Vembanad Lake and just relax on the deck reading a book. Narrow waterways opening out into big Lakes, waterways dotted with swaying coconut trees on either side that sometimes bend forward and touch each other forming natural arches is sight to behold for any visitor. Some houseboats offer the facilities of a modern five star hotel with air conditioners, fridge and expensive furniture. These houseboats are of different sizes, shapes and décor with smaller ones best suited to honeymooning couples to the bigger ones suited for a team or a party of people. Kumarakom also boasts of a seven star hotel on land, managed by one of the leading hotel chains of India. Apart from these, there are plenty of cheaper accommodations just minutes away from the Lake.

Whether you are a couple in love, a family on vacation or simply an avid nature lover, the house boats of Kumarakom is where you want to be. Kumarakom is well connected by roads and the nearest railway station and airport are not very far away. Come to Kumarakom, rent a houseboat and cruise on the Vembanad Lake and be assured that your worries and problems are far, far away.

Author – writer baba