The houseboats of Kerala and Kashmir differ primarily in their design, materials, mobility, and cultural experience.
Design and Materials
- Kerala houseboats, known as kettuvallams, are traditionally made from eco-friendly materials like bamboo, coir, wood from the jackfruit tree, and palm leaves for thatched roofs. They have a classic rustic appearance with a wooden hull tied with coir ropes without nails for flexibility and strength.
- Kashmir houseboats are constructed mainly from cedar (Deodar) wood and feature intricate hand-carved woodwork, traditional Kashmiri designs, and solid wooden roofs. They resemble floating wooden palaces or hotels adorned with antique furniture, Persian carpets, and chandeliers.
Mobility and Use
- Kerala houseboats are moving houseboats that cruise slowly through the extensive network of backwaters—rivers, canals, and lakes—offering relaxing rides with scenic views of village life, flora, and fauna. They follow designated routes and usually stop overnight.
- Kashmir houseboats are mostly stationary, permanently moored on Dal and Nigeen lakes. They do not travel much and give the feeling of a floating house or hotel. They are anchored at specific points and provide a cultural and luxurious stay experience.
Cultural and Scenic Experience
- Kerala houseboats offer an immersive journey through lush greenery and local rural life. Tourists enjoy local Kerala cuisine cooked onboard along with natural scenic views.
- Kashmir houseboats offer majestic views of the Himalayas, snow-covered mountains, and Mughal gardens, providing an opulent cultural experience with Kashmiri folk music, traditional cuisine like Rogan Josh, and the vibrant local bazaars around the lake.
In essence, Kerala houseboats are eco-friendly leisure crafts to explore tranquil backwaters, while Kashmir houseboats are luxurious, immobile floating palaces offering cultural richness and mountain lake serenity.
