The houseboats were originally modelled on the rice barges which plied the backwaters of Kerala, transporting goods around the region. They have since morphed into floating hotels or houseboats some with just one room and some with as many as nine!  We do feel that the original essence of the houseboats has been lost as they now become bigger and grander and have marble bathrooms an crystal chandeliers however, it is still possible to find boats which can still ply the narrow canals and which give a true overview of this region with its laid back, relaxed way of life and where all life is played out in the narrow canals. We recommend either, taking a half a day country boat ride in order to see this, or, should you want the houseboat experience, then to book a two-night stay, so that the boat can get away from the main lake where most of the boats are and take you on true voyage of discovery.