Lotus Houseboat
High-end boating experience,
Private two-bedroom boat
Couples,
Families
This is a high-end boating experience offering plenty of privacy, a decent amount of space, and perfect facilities for families.
The backwaters of northern Kerala are undiscovered gems, far quieter and more rewarding to explore than the busier waterways further south. Guests can board near Kannur or in Neeleshwar. Highlights include the beaches at Thaikadapuram, home to rare Olive Ridley turtles, Kottappuram, gateway to the Kasaragod backwaters, and the peaceful sacred groves known as Kavus. You can hop on and off the boat to explore local villages, while onboard activities include yoga, Ayurvedic treatments, al fresco dining on the sun deck, and cooking courses.
The Lotus Houseboat is ideal for couples, families and slower travellers wanting to experience Kerala’s backwaters more intimately and authentically. Rather than a large or heavily stylised cruise, this is about simple comfort, gentle travel and watching everyday life unfold along the waterways.
It suits travellers looking to slow the pace of their trip after time spent exploring India’s busier cities or wildlife parks. Days are spent drifting past palm-fringed villages, paddy fields and fishermen at work, with plenty of time to sit on deck, read, chat or simply watch the changing scenery. The atmosphere is relaxed and unhurried, with attentive staff and freshly cooked Keralan meals adding to the sense of ease on board.
The Rooms
Lotus is a two-bedroom rice barge spanning 32 metres with teak floors, lovely en-suite bathrooms, and plenty of space and light. The bedrooms are aptly named “happiness” and “beauty”, and each bedroom has its private sitting-out area. It’s stylish and slick, the crew is friendly, and the cuisine is top-notch. This is a fantastic private experience in the unspoilt north, particularly well-suited for families.
What You’ll Find:
Why You'll Love It:
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Lotus Houseboat on the map
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The best family holiday we have ever been on
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The Curious Traveller’s Expert Guide to India
Want to know more? With its vast size, rich diversity, and countless possibilities, planning a holiday to India can feel overwhelming – so we’ve created our Curious Traveller’s Guide to India to help make sense of it all.
It’s our experts’ pick of standout experiences and places to stay, with honest advice on the best regions and tips for both first-time visitors and those returning for more.
