Ever Wondered Kerala Houseboats and Kashmir Houseboats – Whats the Difference?
Houseboats, also known as kettuvallam (കെട്ടുവള്ളം) in Kerala and shikara (शिकारा) in Kashmir, are traditional boats that have been converted into floating homes. They are both popular tourist destinations, offering visitors a unique and unforgettable experience. However, there are also some key differences between the two types of houseboats.
Location and Scenery
Houseboats in Kerala cruise along the backwaters of Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Kottayam, Alappuzha, Ernakulam, Thrissur and Kasaragod, a network of brackish lagoons and lakes that lie parallel to the Arabian Sea coast. The backwaters are home to a variety of flora and fauna, including coconut palms, water lilies, and kingfishers. Visitors can also spot traditional villages and Chinese fishing nets along the way.
Kashmir houseboats are moored on Dal Lake, a scenic lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains. The lake is also home to a variety of birds and aquatic plants. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Himalayas and the lake from their houseboats.
Check out our video of scenic backwaters of alleppey in a Kerala houseboats
Design and Architecture
Kerala houseboats are typically made of wood and bamboo. They have a unique design, with a thatched roof and a long, narrow body. The houseboats are equipped with all the necessary amenities, including bedrooms, bathrooms, a kitchen, and a living room.
Houseboats of Kashmir are made of cedar pine and often carved with intricate designs. They are typically larger and more luxurious than houseboats of Kerala and often have multiple bedrooms, bathrooms, and living rooms they also often have balconies and terraces, which offer stunning views of the lake and the mountains.
Activities and Experiences
Houseboats of Kerala offer a variety of activities and experiences, including:
- Cruising along the backwaters: Visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of the backwaters as they cruise along on their houseboat.
- Birdwatching: The backwaters are home to a variety of birds, making them a great spot for birdwatching.
- Visiting traditional villages: Visitors can visit traditional villages along the backwaters and learn about the local culture and way of life.
- Fishing: Visitors can try their hand at fishing in the backwaters.
- Enjoying traditional Keralan cuisine: The houseboat crew will typically prepare traditional Kerala meals for the guests.
Houseboats of Kashmir offer a variety of activities and experiences, including:
- Shikara rides: Visitors can take a shikara ride to explore the lake and its various islands.
- Visiting Mughal gardens: The shores of Dal Lake are home to a number of Mughal gardens, which visitors can explore.
- Shopping for souvenirs: There are a number of shops on the shores of Dal Lake where visitors can buy souvenirs.
- Enjoying traditional Kashmiri cuisine: The houseboat crew will typically prepare traditional Kashmiri meals for the guests.
Overall
Kerala and Kashmir houseboats offer two different but equally unique and unforgettable experiences. Kerala houseboats are ideal for visitors who want to enjoy the scenic beauty of the backwaters and learn about the local culture. Kashmir houseboats are ideal for visitors who want to experience the luxury and beauty of Dal Lake and the surrounding Himalayas.
For more details visit:
For more such informative travel articles please visit our: Travel Blog Section