A houseboat is anchored in a lake at the Kerala Backwaters in India
Sailing along India's many rivers or coasts can be both enjoyable and therapeutic. There is no frantic routine to follow, and you can enjoy life in the slow lane. Although Kashmir and Kerala are known for their houseboats, other states follow suit.
However, remember that you must book houseboat tours only with government-registered operators.
The Swarna River in Udupi is the only backwater in Karnataka that offers houseboat rentals. Enjoy the riverside scenery, including coconut farms and villages, as the boat glides along. These houseboats are inspired by the ones in Kerala and have all the comforts too.
This orchard land is notable for the Dal Lake, which is surrounded by the grandeur of the Himalayas. The houseboats in this lake, known as Shikaras, are one-of-a-kind wooden constructions. The boats feature intricate carvings and a deep historical connection to the country's culture. Despite their historic appearance, these boats are outfitted with luxury and modern comforts. Some people like to spend a few hours floating on Shikaras, touring floating marketplaces and taking in the scenery. At the same time, the most popular tourist attraction is a sunset trip on the lake aboard a houseboat.
A tour in the houseboats, fitted with lavish facilities, is highly recommended. While travelling on these houseboats, you may visit several beaches and enjoy some of the most luxurious facilities. While on such a tour, you can also experience other water sports, such as scuba diving or snorkelling.
Houseboat trips on the Chapora and Mandovi rivers are among the most memorable experiences in Goa. A typical houseboat itinerary includes a day trip through a backwater and an evening of entertainment on board. You can also relish lip-smacking Goan cuisine while sailing past traditional villages, coconut fields, fishing villages, forts, monuments, etc.
This lovely hill station in north-eastern India is well-known for tea and the Brahmaputra River. The major activities in this region are river cruising and houseboat trips. The scenery is the most admirable aspect of picking Assam for houseboat activities. During your houseboat cruise in Assam, you can also visit the Navagraha Temple, Bhuvaneshwari Temple, Majuli Island, and other prominent tourist attractions.
Kerala is the most popular place for houseboat cruises and backwaters. Kerala's traditional houseboats, known as Kettuvallam, are famed for overnight stays and short backwater journeys. They come fully furnished with modern amenities, including a bedroom, kitchen, and fishing deck. Houseboat holiday destinations include Kollam, Alappuzha, and Vembanad.