Udupi welcomes houseboat cruising

Udupi: Udupi district administration has embarked upon the novel concept of houseboats on the lines of Kerala to boost tourism potential and upgrade tourism activities in the district. 

The district Tourism Department assistant director Anitha Bhaskar said that a houseboat cruise is a very different experience that must not be missed. The district has ample tourism opportunities as it offers nature’s bounty with picturesque locations. The department is making plans to introduce houseboats after the monsoon in the district along with many other projects it’s working on to promote tourism in the district.

Three houseboats have been introduced at Panchajanya, Thirumala and Paradise Lagoons, informed Anitha.

These boats are anchored at Kodi Bengre which has a proper channel to ensure that it remains an unbelievable experience for those who rent it. There are opportunities for the boats to cruise along narrow canals and offer a glimpse into village life.

The prices are charged based on the comforts that are offered in each cruise. Food is available onboard and the prices are subject to the taste of the customers. Parties can also be arranged during nights in the houseboats.

The operation of boats is strictly prohibited during monsoon, Anitha added.

There are also plans to introduce houseboats in the Kudrus, which are the local islands and are found in many numbers especially in the areas bordering Udupi-Kundapura and Kundapura taluk.

‘Panchajanya’ is one of the three houseboats that offer’s an exotic experience at the river estuary and was launched during the last fishing season. Thirumala was launched a couple of weeks ago and the cruise is yet to pick up business. The election fever that hit the region did adversely affect the business.

There are two leisure boats along with three houseboats and one more houseboat is likely to begin operations after the monsoon, informed Anitha.