Xandari Riverscapes

This was a truly special experience. The crew were intent on ensuring we enjoyed every minute. It was beautifully cool as we moved ***** due the breeze. The traditional Kerelan food was freshly prepared and delicious. We were offered the opportunity to stop for a massage which we took and highly recommend. We also went on a smaller boat through the narrow channels. We rose early to watch the sun rise before a fabulous breakfast and then headed back to disembark.

We spent the most amazing day and night on ‘Chaliyar’, enjoying the activity and scenery ***** the Pamba river, whilst ensconced in total luxury. Our crew of three (for just the two of us) were so attentive whilst discreet, always smiling as they pampered us with delicious snacks (coconut milk from the actual coconut and steamed banana pieces) and fabulous meals (lunch of fish cooked in banana leaf and dinner of chicken with okra and veg). The boat was beautiful and so so clean. The bed was so comfortable and the bathroom with shower totally adequate. We had a fabulous lounge area for viewing ***** the way. At one point we transferred to a small motor boat (with the guests from two other Xandari houseboats) for a 45 minute tour of the narrow canals and backwaters. The driver was great fun and we all got a go at controlling the boat and wave at his family as we passed by his home. We moored for the night with the other two boats (together but far enough apart to maintain our privacy) at a Xandari property with a pool that we could use and the opportunity to take a walk if we wished. In the morning we witnessed a beautiful sunrise before our delicious breakfast of fruit and dosas. This houseboat experience was the best part of a totally fantastic and unforgettable two weeks in Kerala. We would like to thank Sony (our captain), Manoj (our engineer) and Sujith (our chef) for a most memorable trip. We felt safe in your hands at all times. We will never forget you or this trip. Just sorry we forgot to get a photo with you.

We had a balcony on the higher level, that was absolutely amazing, as not all boats have this. The service on board was also great! We had three personell for 3 guests. Each bedroom had its own shower and toilet. It felt so private and amazing. Our only feedback to improve on is that we didn’t have hot water for showering (but it wasn’t freezing either). I also think they could actively offer more cold water, but otherwise everything was absolutely amazing. If I ever come back to Kerala, we would do the same experience again. It was the best part of our trip. You can wind down, relax, and enjoy the peace and views. The upper deck was the best part of the boat. Thank you for such an amazing time.

Excellent trip, very friendly staff, Arun, Manu, Sujith great cook, we stopped to pick up Prawns, he cooked two different dish of prawns.. very hard working crew...... Canoe ride was also enjoyable.... Overall excellent..............

Enjoyed the houseboat Periyar on the backwaters of Alleppey on the Pamba River Boarded just after midday and set-off quickly. Our boat was of single story construction with open sides and slept 4 - we noticed that there were other double decker boats with fully enclosed sides and a balcony The houseboat captain and crew were very helpful explaining about the river and surroundings and were very knowledgeable about the birds. There was also a lovely bird book available. Lunch was cooked whilst we cruised ***** and then we stopped whilst eating We really enjoyed transferring to a smaller boat and seeing life on the banks of the canals We moored up just before dusk and enjoyed dinner on the deck A pleasant sleep in our air conditioned room and then we set-off again about 7:30. It was special seeing the locals waking up and going to work/school whilst we ate breakfast We moored back at base around 09:30 Special thanks on the boat to captain Sijo, engineer Arkan and chef Rajeev as they were all lovely and very helpful

The most magical window onto the Keralan back water life you could imagine. The views, the wildlife and the snapshots of day to day life are breathtaking. The boat was perfect - tended by our 3 brilliant crew who cared for our every need. Thankyou !!