Lovingly referred to by many as “God’s own country”, Kerala, India is one of the most beautiful places on earth, and it has immense wealth in the form of backwaters that occupy a large area in the state. A cruise through the Kerala backwaters is an experience comparable to no other. Even for people who have had the chance to experience a river cruise before, cruising through the heavenly waters enjoying the exquisite landscape, is a really enchanting tour. A trip through the backwaters is an excellent way of getting to know and really experience this heaven on earth . . .
The Oberoi Vrinda cruise takes you on a 4 day journey through the magical backwaters of Kerala. It ambles through the canals, and the various lakes. Although the trip would be worth it even if it was on a catamaran, the Oberoi Vrinda lives up to the reputation the Oberois have for extreme luxury, comfort and impeccable service.
The trip also takes you across several historical locations, and significant places. The beautiful backwaters, scenic farming fields that seem to stretch for ever, expansive coconut groves, the charming villages that can be seen out your windows are an experience unrivalled by nothing on earth.
On Board the Oberoi Vrinda . . .
The Cabins
The Oberoi Vrinda has 8 luxury cabins, all of which have king size beds. The windows of the cabins are wide open, and spectacular views of the heavenly landscape can be had through them. The wooden flooring in the cabins affords a feeling of ultimate luxury. All the rooms are specially furnished with ergonomic and comfortable furniture. A range of facilities are provided for the comfort and convenience of the guests inside the cabins. The cabins are equipped with flat screen T V ‘ s, D V D players and an electronic safe for valuables. All the cabins have a private bathroom with showers facility.
Wining and Dining
The restaurant on board the Oberoi Vrinda is excellent and has some genius chefs who are qualifies in both Indian and International cuisine. The Kerala cuisine, which includes scrumptious sea food preparations, is something that can be called the pinnacle of gastronomic experiences. The International preparations are by no means lacking in toothsome – ness, but it is really worth trying the Kerala cuisine. There is a lounge and bar on the upper deck of the Oberoi Vrinda, and the ambience is really breathtaking. The splendid views that can be had while dining or having a drink will really enrich your overall experience.
Itinerary
Day One . . .
The trip on board the Oberoi Vrinda backwater cruise begins at the Vembanad lake Boat jetty. Onwards, it sails towards the waterways of Alleppey ( Alapuzha ). After sailing for about 4 hours on the waterways, it comes back to Vembanad Lake again, and is anchored for the night. Performances by Mohinattam and Katha Kali dancers are held. These are the traditional Kerala dance forms.
Day Two . . .
Day 2, it sails over to Alleppey ( Alapuzha ), and gets into the Pamba River water ways. After sailing the whole day it returns back to the boat jetty. There will be a visit to a traditional Kerala home, known as “Tharavadu” There is a half statue of Lord Buddha at Karumudi.
Day Three . . .
On the third day, the Vrinda goes towards the backwaters of Chambakulam. Once there, one can get down and take a ride on the “kettuvallam”, which is a traditional catamaran of Kerala. There is a visit to the boat yards and this is an amazing way to see some of the traditional snake boats. These boats are extremely fast, and races are held annually on these, with great following all over the country, with interest starting to be shown from the world nowadays. St Mary’s Church, which was established here by St. Thomas, an apostle of Jesus in A D 54, is also part of the visits.
Day Four . . .
On the fourth day on board, and the final day, the Vrinda will sail during sunrise at Vembanad Lake. Guests will then be transported to Kochi by air conditioned car after breakfast.