Think about this: You are relaxing on your very own teak-wood sun deck, covered in a cozy cotton blanket. Around you, it’s pouring gently on Vembanad Lake under the monsoons of Kerala. The scent of earth and rain, jasmine flowers, and deliciously cooked fish curry floats in the air from the food preparation area aboard your boat. Palm trees dance slowly as egrets rest on the shores of the river. Water reflects the gentle sunlight. And you, you are drifting along with everything else – your very own luxury houseboat experience in Kerala.
Welcome to the monsoon experience in Kumarakom and Alleppey!For more than a decade, Rajadhani Holidays has been providing luxury houseboat Kerala. And here is an insider tip from us: the monsoon months make the most amazing season to explore God’s Own Country.
Kerala Monsoon Weather: The Real Truth
Before we talk about anything magical, first let us tell you something about the monsoon as well as the climate, which are the essential elements that distinguish a trip from a memorable vacation.
The southwest monsoon season in Kerala starts from June 1 and lasts till September. The northeast monsoon comes after this, from October till December. Around 65% of the total rainfall, totaling around 3,107 mm annually, is received during June to August months.
Does the Rain Halt the Houseboat?
No. The backwaters of Kerala are inland waterways that are safe from the vagaries of the ocean. Houseboats cruise through the backwaters even during the monsoon season, which only serves to give the experience a mystical serenity with its mirror-like calm waters, mist lingering over the lake early morning and verdure that cannot be captured by photography alone.
A luxury houseboat in either Alleppy or Kumarakom is designed precisely for this kind of experience, with their covered balconies, ample space and expansive windows just so that one could gaze upon the rain falling over the backwaters from the comfort of one’s own air conditioned bedroom or dry verandahs.
The Sensory Experience: How Monsoon Makes One Feel While On a Luxury Houseboat Kerala
Words may not do justice, but we will give it a try.
The Sounds
There are few sounds better than the gentle rain falling on the teak roof of a luxury houseboat. After a minute or two of listening, this rhythmic sound can become meditative. Underneath the constant rain is the lapping of water on the boat hull and the occasional splash in the backwaters. There is the call of a kingfisher bird from the shore, the cooking of karimeen fish in the kitchens below.
The Visuals
As you step out on the boat deck, the backwaters have changed. Nature has turned itself into a canvas of greens of every shade imaginable — greener than anything you imagined was possible to behold. The paddy fields which had been golden in the winter months have become a deep emerald green and grow waist-high. The canal banks have overgrown with banana trees, water hyacinth, and ferns.
The Scent
Moist laterite soil. Coconut groves soaked in rain. Fragrance of jasmine from the garden of the village floating on the water. Smoky aroma of the kitchen where a cook of Keralite community is making your food — coconut fish curry, steamed rice, prawn thoran, and raw mango pickle.
The Touch
Raindrops falling on your face while standing in the front of the boat. The cold wind that blows after that. The silence that prevails whenever rain stops and lake reflects the images of clouds and palm trees.
Why Opt for a Luxury Houseboat Cruise in Kerala During Monsoon Season?
1.The Landscapes Are Stunningly Spectacular
The monsoons turn the state into an oasis of verdant splendor that cannot be captured by any photography. The waters in the backwaters rise and provide you with the opportunity to experience the land as it appears from a Keralite’s perspective: lush, abundant and picturesque.
2.You Encounter Very Few Tourists
While peak travel season sees an influx of tourists, the monsoon season keeps the crowds away. This allows you to sail your luxurious houseboat on private waters that appear exclusive to you alone, which is the dream of every traveller.
3. Great Value For Money
During the monsoon period, hotels and luxury houseboats in Kerala cost 30-40% less than their regular prices. Get the same luxurious boat, the same delicious Kerala food, and the same service crew – at a very reduced price. A stay aboard the luxury houseboat in Kerala during the monsoon period will provide you with great value for money.
4. The Best Time for Ayurveda Treatments
According to Kerala’s traditional Ayurvedic calendar, the monsoon period is called Karkidaka – the best time for taking deep Panchakarma therapies. Cool, moist atmosphere makes it easier to absorb herbal medicine. Have an Ayurveda treatment along with your trip on a luxury houseboat in Kerala, and you will really enjoy your holiday.
5. Monsoon Festivals and Kerala Culture
In July-August, Kerala has the greatest displays of its culture. One can observe boat-race preparations while sailing on a lake through the luxury houseboat. Villages’ temples hold small religious festivals. Also, one will see the preparation for the great Onam Festival of Kerala.
FAQ for Monsoon Luxury Houseboat in Kerala
Is it safe to travel via the luxury houseboat of Kerala in monsoon?
Yes, indeed. Inland Kerala’s backwaters are enclosed passages and not comparable to open sea travel. Navigators are well trained to handle boats under all weather conditions. They also use safety equipment. We receive daily weather reports and make sure there is total safety for our guests.
Which would be the best luxury houseboat route in Kerala in monsoon?
Vembanad Lake route from Kumarakom to Alleppey is wonderful during monsoon. This route passes through lush green paddy fields, bird sanctuaries, and village boat trips which are enchanting in monsoon. Depending on your time and requirements, we design your itinerary.
Is it possible to watch birds during monsoon in Kerala’s houseboat?
Yes. In the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, egrets, herons, kingfishers, darters, and cormorants can be seen. Early morning trips are ideal for bird watching from the houseboat deck.
What kind of packing would you suggest while planning a luxury houseboat holiday in Kerala during monsoon season?
Comfortable clothes, an umbrella or raincoat, mosquito repellents, and a camera that is water-resistant. Our boats have air conditioning, so just one lightweight dress will be enough for the evening.
For how long shall I plan my luxury houseboat holiday in Kerala?
At least 1 night / 2 days will give you the full benefit of staying at the backwaters of Kerala. To experience the best monsoons with village visits, birdwatching, and relaxing meals, we advise 2 nights / 3 days.
On what date will the monsoon reach Kerala?
A: The monsoon starts in Kerala on 1st June, which means Kerala will receive the monsoon showers first in India. July will be the month with most rainfall, till late September.
Is monsoon season suitable for visiting backwaters of Kerala for honeymoon?
Monsoon season is considered the most romantic period to go on a honeymoon through a luxury houseboat in Kerala. It is because of the elements of privacy, beautiful green surroundings, sounds of rain falling outside on the deck, and the overall cozy ambiance aboard the boat.
What is the fare of luxury houseboats in Kerala during monsoon?
Fare for monsoon period is around 30% to 40% less than during peak season. For further information about current packages and rates according to your requirements, contact Rajadhani Holidays.
Luxury Houseboat Holiday in Monsoon Kerala
Monsoon luxury houseboat vacation in Kerala is more than just a vacation. It’s a complete recalibration of your senses, bringing you back to the reality of what the world should be like when everything feels right, when the rains are not just another hindrance but a pleasure, and the most beautiful destination on earth is seen in its truest form by only a few lucky souls.Rajadhani Holidays is all set to welcome you to this amazing experience.
