The Backwaters of Kerala - endless miles of snaking waterways flanked on either side by emerald palms. Tranquil and alluring, they offer you the experience of a lifetim
An experience that can be had only at the Taj Garden Retreat, Kumarakom. A 119-year old colonial retreat set on the banks of the serene Vembanad Lake. From here, you can embark on a day-long journey through the exquisite waterways in a 'Kettuvallam', an authentic Kerala houseboat.
The Taj Group has introduced a luxuriously furnished two bedroom air-conditioned 'Kettuvallam' designed to cruise around the Vembanad Lake from the Taj Garden Retreat, Kumarakom, Kerala.
The houseboat has been designed to meet the Green Palm/Gold Star Certifications by the Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala, which has recently enacted regulations, stipulating standards of house-boats.
Luxuriously appointed with a comfortable living area, spacious bedroom, a dining area a bathroom and a sun deck to ensure you experience God's Own Country in all its glory. There is also a fully equipped kitchenette on board. Our expert chef will accompany you and treat you to some authentic Kerala cuisine, or you can opt to cook for yourself.
<-<- Pleasure Trip: A new designer houseboat for tourists to cruise around Vembanad Lake offered by Taj Garden Retreat, Kumarakom.
The Taj Kerala has introduced a new houseboat mainly aiming at the European and American markets to promote `Kayal Tourism' in the State. Constructed at a cost of Rs 20 lakhs, the luxuriously furnished two bedroom air-conditioned Kettuvallam has been designed for the tourists to cruise around the Vembanad Lake from the Taj Garden Retreat, Kumarakom. One-fifth of Kerala from north to south comprises of water and historically, the traditional `rice boat' or Kettuvallam played an integral part of the communication transporting system. It made sense to use such boats to travel and trade to the length and breadth of Kerala.
The houseboat has been designed to meet the Green Palm/Gold Star Certifications by the Department of Tourism, Government of Kerala, which has recently enacted regulations, stipulating standards of houseboats. Accordingly, the Taj Houseboats conform fully to certain additional requirements listed as optional to get the Green Palm/Gold Star Certification. Luxury, safety and environmental concerns are the essentials that are adequately taken care of in floating the new designer houseboat. The houseboat comprises fantastically crafted multi-purpose living area with facilities for seating, eating and lively conversations. There are two bedrooms, of which one has twin beds and the other has a double bed to meet the different guest needs.
You will also get an insight into the life of the locals, which revolves around the intricate waterways and their rich bounty. In the evening, stop for a moment to witness one of nature's most spectacular sights - the smoldering crimson sun softly melting into the placid emerald waters. Then, as darkness falls, return to the Taj for a hearty Dinner and a good night's rest.
