Waterside Villages - Paddy Farms - Floating Supermarkets - Fisherfolk selling their catch - Slow life on the river
We have made every effort to design our operations for local community development. The crew and chef are from the local community and their knowledge of the land, the local stories and the insights about this unique habitat are intriguing for any traveller.
Houseboats, also called as Kettuvallams, a type of boat that has secured a place in history. Traditionally used as rice boats their construction is based on binding wood with knots or 'kettu' and hence the name. Not a single nail is used while making them. Moreover local resources are utilized, like fish oil for water proofing and thatches for the roofing. Local craftsmen, whose knowledge has been gained from their ancestors, are responsible for the construction of these houseboats. These beauties trace the routes of erstwhile rice merchants and wanderers across the picturesque lake and waterways.
This area, Kuttanad, is one of the few places in the world where cultivated land is below sea level, which also makes it one of the most fertile parts of the state. Indigenous methods of fishing and farming have evolved here due to the distinct ecosystem of the land. Feel a part of the landscape as the wind brings the fragrance of swaying paddy to the accompaniment of bird call and the gentle lapping of water.
Single bedroom houseboat with onboard kitchen and a living space. Rooms are airconditioned and have ensuite bathroom and running hot and cold water.
Two room houseboats ideal for a family holiday. Each room is airconditioned and has an ensuite bathroom and running hot and cold water.
Most of our three bedrrom boats have an upper viewing deck that has unparallel views of the moving scenery. All bedrooms are fully equipped with facilities.
Watch the trees lean down to whisper secrets to the river. Innumerable waterways lead inwards vanishing around bends, lending a mystery to where they are going and the people who live there.
Glide through the centuries' old traditions of Alleppey village life in this one-hour wooden canoe exploration through backwater canals. Where you can get a sneak peek into the lives of malayalees and understand that happiness often lies in the little little things in everyday routines of lives- children playing hide and seek between coconut trees, fishermen folk going about their daily lives, the mouth watering aroma of Naadan (authentic) homely food lurking in the air.
Watch the trees lean down to whisper secrets to the river. Innumerable waterways lead inwards vanishing around bends, leanding a mystery to where they are going and the people who live there.
Glide through the centuries old traditions of Alleppey village life in this one-hour wooden canoe exploration through backwater canals. Where you can get a sneek peak into the lives of malayalees and understand that happiness often lies in the little little things in everyday routines of lives- children playing hide and seek between coconut trees, fishermen folk going about their daily lives, the mouth watering aroma of Naadan (authentic) homely food lurking in the air.
Pioneers in ethical waste treatment and water management among kerala houseboats.
An array of preparations are served giving the guest an enjoyable induction into the culinary traditions of Kuttanad. Locally grown rice, vegetables sourced from neighbouring farmers and freshly caught fish add a distinct flavour to the food.
Plastic straws are strictly avoided. Instead we use paper straws. We have been able to make a significant difference in the avoidance of plastic. The toiletries provided to guests come in reusable cloth pouches which adds a rustic charm to their appearance and helps our conservation practices.
The Farm-to-Table initiative:
Xandari Riverscapes is a water-based houseboat operation, and so relationships have been established with local farmers to supply the local rice from Kerala's noted paddy, and as much produce as possible. Additionally, duck farmers throughout the backwaters supply their meats daily, and local fishermen provide much shellfish and the famous local fish, Karimeen otherwise known as Pearl Spot.
One of our earliest actions was to completely avoid the use of plastic bottles. Not only our restaurant but every room is provided with glass bottles containing filtered water. The in-room toiletries too come in handy glass bottles.
THE STAFF AT XANDARI ARE FROM THE LOCAL COMMUNITY AND THE VALUE THEY ADD TO THE EXPERIENCE OF THE GUEST IS IMMEASURABLE. THEIR STORIES AND THEIR KNOWLEDGE OF THE LAND AND ITS PEOPLE IS UNIQUE.
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