To Kumarakom
We arrived in Kochi by air and spent a relaxing night in the city before continuing our journey to Kumarakom the following morning.
A taxi ride of about two hours took us towards Kerala's famous backwaters, though heavy traffic along the way made the journey a little longer than expected. As the city gradually gave way to coconut groves, paddy fields, and peaceful villages, the anticipation of boarding our houseboat grew stronger.
Into the Tranquil Backwaters
The Longest Backwater Journey – From Alleppey to Kollam
One of the most memorable journeys we had done in Kerala was the long backwater cruise from Alappuzha to Kollam—a distance of nearly 80 km covered on a public boat from morning till evening. We still remember travelling with our daughter, who was just nine years old then, watching the endless network of canals, village life along the banks, and the slow rhythm of Kerala’s backwaters unfold throughout the day. It was a journey that stayed with us for years, shaping our idea of slow travel and timeless landscapes.
Two decades later, the desire was different. This time, it was a quieter one-night backwater experience chosen together, for comfort and reflection rather than distance. The pace was gentler, the surroundings more intimate, and the experience deeply personal.
Life on the Houseboat
One-Night Houseboat Itinerary
A one-night stay on a houseboat near Kumarakom is a slow, scenic journey through the serene backwaters of Vembanad Lake.
- ✓12:00–1:00 PM: Check-in on the houseboat at the boarding point (usually Alleppey or Kumarakom jetty).
- ✓1:00 PM: Welcome drink and traditional Kerala lunch served on board.
- ✓2:00–5:30 PM: Cruise through canals, lagoons, and village stretches; watch daily life along the backwaters.
- ✓5:30–6:30 PM: Anchor near a quiet village or lake edge; enjoy sunset views and tea/snacks on deck.
- ✓6:30–7:30 PM: Leisure time on the boat; relaxed evening atmosphere.
- ✓8:00 PM: Dinner served on board (Kerala-style cuisine).
- ✓Overnight: Boat remains anchored in a peaceful location; calm water surroundings and minimal light pollution for a quiet night.
- ✓7:00–8:00 AM: Morning cruise through misty backwaters.
- ✓8:00–9:00 AM: Breakfast on board.
- ✓9:00–9:30 AM: Check-out at jetty.
A Peaceful Night on the Houseboat
We truly enjoyed our one-night stay on the houseboat in the backwaters of Kumarakom. The experience felt calm and personal, especially because we were alone on the boat, which made it even more special. The traditional Kerala cuisine served on board was delicious and added an authentic local touch to the journey. Although the cruising duration was limited, the slow movement through the serene backwaters, surrounded by coconut groves and quiet village life, made every moment worthwhile.
Three Nights at KTDC Suvasam Kumarakom Gateway
After completing our unforgettable houseboat cruise through the tranquil backwaters of Kumarakom, we drove just a few kilometres to our next stop, KTDC Suvasam Kumarakom Gateway. The short drive marked a seamless transition from life on the water to a comfortable stay on land, allowing us to continue soaking in the peaceful charm of Kerala's backwaters.
Our stay at KTDC Suvasam Kumarakom Gateway was a perfect blend of calm backwater living and vibrant cultural exploration. Set along the serene banks of Vembanad Lake, the resort welcomed us with traditional Kerala-style cottages, sloping red-tiled roofs, and lush green lawns that instantly created a soothing, homely atmosphere.
A Peaceful Retreat on Land
Resort Base for Vaikathashtami Festival
Over three nights, we used the resort as our base to attend the Vaikathashtami for two days. The journey to the temple festivities, with their grand elephant processions, rhythmic percussion, and glowing oil lamps, was deeply immersive and spiritually uplifting.
After long, vibrant days at the festival, returning to the quiet of the lake-facing resort felt incredibly comforting. Early mornings by the water, watching the mist rise over Vembanad Lake, and evenings spent in silence made the experience beautifully balanced—between devotion, culture, and the timeless tranquility of Kerala’s backwaters.
Vaikathashtami Festival
Vaikathashtami is a vibrant 12-day festival celebrated annually at Vaikom Mahadeva Temple, usually during November or December. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is one of Kerala's most important temple festivals and attracts thousands of devotees from across the state.
The celebrations feature special rituals, traditional music, cultural performances, and grand temple processions, culminating on the auspicious Ashtami day. The beautifully decorated temple, illuminated surroundings, and deep sense of devotion create a unique spiritual atmosphere, making Vaikathashtami a memorable cultural and religious experience.
A Memorable Farewell to Kerala
One of the most spectacular highlights of our stay was witnessing the grand elephant parade during the Vaikathashtami celebrations. Majestically adorned with traditional golden caparisons, decorative ornaments, and colourful parasols, the elephants moved in procession to the rhythmic beats of chenda melam and panchavadyam. The combination of magnificent elephants, devotional fervour, and vibrant music created an unforgettable spectacle, offering us a wonderful glimpse into Kerala's rich temple traditions and cultural heritage.
With these cherished memories, we returned to the resort, completed our check-out formalities, and drove straight to Kochi Airport for our flight back home. As our aircraft took off, we carried with us unforgettable memories of misty hills, tranquil backwaters, fragrant spice plantations, warm hospitality, and vibrant cultural traditions.
Planning a Backwater and Festival Trip in Kerala
A trip combining a houseboat stay, resort accommodation, and temple festivals in Kerala can be easily planned with advance online bookings for all components. Staying at a backwater resort and adding a houseboat experience in nearby Kumarakom makes for a relaxed and scenic itinerary. What truly elevates the journey is timing it with temple festivals like Vaikathashtami, where vibrant elephant processions, traditional music, and illuminated rituals create a colourful and unforgettable cultural atmosphere. However, festival dates are fixed according to the lunar calendar, so they must be checked in advance while planning. With the right timing, the experience becomes a seamless blend of Kerala’s backwaters, hospitality, and rich living traditions.
Essential Tips for Kerala
Best Time to Visit
- ✓Oct – Feb: Best season (cool & clear)
- ✓Mar – May: Hot but cheaper
- ✓Jun – Sep: Monsoon (lush greenery, heavy rain possible)
Travel Tips
- ✓Fly to Cochin International Airport (Kochi) for easiest access
- ✓Kochi to Alleppey: ~1.5–2 hrs drive
- ✓Kochi to Kumarakom: ~2–2.5 hrs drive
- ✓Use prepaid taxis or hotel transfers only
Food & Dining
- ✓Expect authentic Kerala-style meals: rice, fish curry, chicken curry
- ✓Try appam + stew breakfast
- ✓Inform in advance for mild spice preference
- ✓Fresh seafood is usually very good on houseboats
