11 Budget Luxury Experiences Only India Can Offer

4. Kerala Backwater Houseboat with Chef-Cooked Meals

A traditional kettuvallam—often called a houseboat—meanders through Kerala’s backwaters while you relax in a private cabin and dine on freshly prepared Kerala cuisine. These boats were once used to move rice and spices; today’s upgraded houseboats feature private bathrooms, local cooks, and scenic outdoor decks. Budget-friendly houseboats run by local operators can offer overnight stays with three meals included for about ₹3,000–8,000 per night (~$35–$95), depending on the season and vessel size (local operator listings). The luxury here is slow travel: the water, the coconut-fringed shores, and meals cooked with regional spices. The best months are October through February for cooler, drier weather. Confirm waste-management practices before booking and prefer operators who follow local sustainable guidelines. Kerala houseboats offer a unique blend of traditional boatcraft and personalized service you won’t easily find elsewhere.