Kumarakom Traditional Houseboat

There is no better way to experience Kerala’s serene backwaters than while enjoying a houseboat cruise. Houseboats, known locally as ‘Kettuvallam’, were built for transporting spices, seafood and rice along Kerala’s waterways and are made from jackwood tied together with coir fibres.

We use the best houseboats with ensuite air-conditioned bedrooms featuring carved wooden ceilings, comfortable beds with bedside tables, and seagrass mat floors. An open sundeck appointed with wicker furniture provides the perfect vantage point from which to observe the slow, uncomplicated life along the banks of the idyllic, timeless palm-fringed network of canals. Should the sundeck become too warm or humid during mid-day, you can retire to the air-conditioned indoor lounge with its comfy sofas. At meal times, this area also doubles as the dining room.

Houseboats have one, two, three or four bedrooms. Superior boats provide air-conditioning between 9 pm and 6 am, while the Deluxe boats that Corinthian offers all its clients also have air-conditioning during the day. The crew on board the houseboat includes an experienced Chef who will discuss your meal preferences and prepare delicious traditional Keralan or Continental meals using ingredients sourced en route. It should be noted that Indian law (designed to support the local fisherman) prohibits houseboats from cruising on the backwaters after sunset. Consequently, as the sun sets over the network of canals and waterways, your houseboat will moor at a quiet location, sometimes alongside a few other traditional houseboats.

Corinthian recommends bringing mosquito repellent creams and ensuring the mosquito net remains tucked into the mattress.