A Slow, Meaningful Travel Experience on Kerala’s Backwaters
Journeying on a Houseboat
In the genre of slow travel a trip to Kumarakom’s backwaters was perhaps my most memorable experience. As this form of immersive travel implies the art of not rushing around when traveling, in an attempt to tick off as many tourist attractions as possible in a short period. Secondly, allowing the world to move just a little slower so that we actually notice it.
Kerala, in South India, better known as God’s Own Country is dotted with a host of beautiful tourist spots — rolling, misty mountains, verdant forests, pristine beaches, and backwaters and is endowed with lush greenery. I’ve had the opportunity to visit this gorgeous escape several times in my life. To the famous `backwaters’ in Kumarakom, this was my maiden trip and I was excited.
Having heard so much about them, I wasn’t sure whether it was a hype or not, but anticipation was soaring, and the stage was set for an amazing encounter.
Indulging in a slow travel experience, relaxation, and leisure were the key ingredients of this trip. As such we immersed fully in the experience at our own unhurried pace, truly absorbing the essence of the place, and evoking all our senses.
As the train is the best way to travel on this route from Bangalore to Kottayam, we opted for that. The convenience of sleeping your way through this night-long journey makes it ideal. We reached Kottayam at 11.30 am which is the nearest station, 10 km away from Kumarakom.
A half-hour cab ride later, bearing the sultry weather, we reached our resort in Kumarakom, nestled on the periphery of the famous Vembanad lake. Our lake-facing abode had breathtaking views — a massive expanse of water peppered with tiny boats.
After a short rest upon our arrival, we were refreshed and embarked on our adventure of a sunset cruise on the lake arranged by the hotel. A leisurely one-hour motorboat ride awaited us. Settling on the deck of the boat, the vistas of the lagoon unfolded in all its splendor. The shores fringed with picturesque resorts and swaying palm trees, while the sun’s rays danced on the water’s surface like sparkling jewels. Within just half an hour the sky transitioned into a mesmerizing shade of red, as the sun bid us farewell. By the time the boatman guided us back to the resort, we felt completely revitalized.
In the evening the resort treated its guests to a cultural program — the well-known kathakali dance performance ( a traditional form of dance in Kerala) by some local artists. It was an enthralling show and the artists were very talented, showcasing the vibrant culture of Kerala.
Experiencing the Backwaters Aboard a Houseboat
The highlight of our trip was treasured for the last, something that we had especially traveled for….. a rendezvous in a traditional houseboat, drifting along the picturesque and tranquil backwaters. You have a choice of opting from 5-hour excursions to more indulgent overnight stays. Our chosen slot was from 12 noon to evening 5 pm, ensuring a unique daytime experience.
The sheer sight of the majestic vessel docked at the lake was enough to elevate our spirits, a testament to its eco-friendly construction from materials like jute, bamboo, and wood. Its design closely resembling a traditional row boat, lending an air of rustic charm. The interiors too had elegance and comfort interwoven seamlessly, featuring two bedrooms with attached washrooms, offering a touch of luxury in the lap of nature. On the deck a thoughtfully arranged dining table and chairs provided a scenic setting for serving meals.
Delightful Encounters All the Way
Present on board were a chef and the boatman, who would be accompanying us. The latter knew the directions and geography of the area on the tips of his fingers and we knew that we were in safe hands for the next few hours. And the chef’s role was to ensure that we were well fed and happy….. providing warm, delicious, freshly cooked local cuisines.
As we boarded the boat, we were accorded a warm welcome, and treated like royalty. The boat navigated through the Vembanad lake, leading us into the intricate network of backwaters and canals.
And as the boat glided smoothly on the sparkling lake, we relaxed on the cane chairs on the deck with music and eatables. The pleasant breeze was a balm to the soul, as we savored the beauty of our surroundings, absorbing the soothing sights.
This was an epitome of slow, immersive travel that I’ve ever experienced. Far from the madding crowds, free of any agendas, or rushing from one destination to the next. Merely being, doing nothing and appreciating the journey itself!
Within an hour of the commencement of the journey, we had crossed the lake and entered the backwaters. It was intriguing, as on both sides of the canal there were narrow pieces of land on which local people had built houses and lived in them. The main entrance of these houses faced the canals and there were no roads or pathways as such. People here use long and narrow boats to travel — which was easier, and faster.
Absorbing the soothing views as the houseboat traversed through lush greenery and an archway of palm trees. An important component of slow travel is connecting with the culture and environment of the place, and tasting the local cuisine and this is what we indulged in. Indeed, a meaningful travel experience to cherish!
