Sailing along canals lined with coconut palms and picturesque villages, enjoy the sight of kingfishers swooping above the water and fishermen pulling up their nets. Crafted from the wood of a jackfruit tree hand-stitched with coconut fiber, Xandari's traditional rice barges look like they truly belong in the world of Kerala's backwaters. Under a thatched canopy, lounge on a daybed on the deck and watch as the captain steers the boat across tranquil Vembanad Lake. Each of the 10 traditional houseboats are manned by a three-person team of locals who grew up on these waters, sharing their history as you soak up the view.
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Each of the houseboats has between one and three rooms, some of which come with a rooftop deck. Decorated in muted tones, every room has double or twin beds, a wardrobe and en-suite bathroom decked out in terracotta tiles. Most cabins also have a cushioned window seat and vanity counter. Artwork on the walls reflects the scenes of nature outside, which you can enjoy through the large picture windows (and from your bed!).
The authenticity... From the staff's home-grown knowledge to the boat itself, you'll feel like you've sailed into a different moment in time.
Look out for the 'school bus', which is actually a long motorised boat and the grocery store barge that floats from village to village.
None of the rooms have a TV but with views over the lake, you really won't miss it.
Start with a recommended trip or create one from scratch
Kettuvallams Houseboats can be booked with Timbuktu as part of a tailor-made India trip, rather than as a standalone room reservation. Start online, customising one of our recommended India trips featuring Kettuvallams Houseboats or get advice and suggestions from one of our India specialists who will design the trip around your dates, check availability and handle every booking for you.
Stays at Kettuvallams Houseboats start from around $190, or US$190, per person per night as part of a tailor-made trip. The exact price depends on your travel dates, room type and the shape of the rest of your itinerary. A Timbuktu travel specialist can give you an accurate quote for your dates.
Pick a rice boat and cruise languidly around the bohemian backwaters, watching the world go by.
