Gliding through palm-fringed canals on a traditional kettuvallam while village life unfolds on the banks – the Alleppey houseboat cruise is Kerala’s most famous experience. Here is how it works and how to make the most of your day on the backwaters.
- Where: Alleppey (Alappuzha), Kumarakom and Vembanad Lake
- Options: shikara ride (1–3 hours), day cruise, or overnight houseboat
- Best time: September to March; monsoon cruises are atmospheric and quiet
- Our Kerala package: backwater boating in Alleppey on Day 6
What is a Kerala houseboat?
Kerala houseboats are converted kettuvallams – long rice barges once used to carry grain along the backwaters. Today they are fitted with bedrooms, a sundeck and a kitchen. A crew of usually three (captain, cook and helper) runs each boat.
Types of backwater experience
- Shikara or country-boat ride: smaller boats that enter narrow canals the big houseboats cannot. Great for seeing village life up close.
- Day cruise: typically from late morning to evening, with lunch on board.
- Overnight houseboat: you cruise in the afternoon, anchor by the bank for the night (cruising generally stops after dark), and return the next morning.
Our Kerala itinerary includes backwater boating in Alleppey followed by a night in Alleppey before you continue to Kovalam.
What you will see
- Coconut groves and paddy fields below the water level.
- Toddy tappers, fishermen and women washing clothes at the canal steps.
- Churches and temples along the banks.
- Kingfishers, egrets and cormorants on Vembanad Lake.
Food on board
Houseboat meals are usually Kerala-style: rice, sambar, avial, thoran, fish curry or karimeen (pearl spot) fry, and fresh fruit. Tell the crew in advance if you need vegetarian or Jain meals.
Best time to visit
- September to March: pleasant and sunny – the main season.
- June to August: monsoon brings dramatic skies, fewer boats and lower prices.
- Nehru Trophy Boat Race: the famous snake-boat race is held on Punnamada Lake, usually in August.
Tips
- Carry insect repellent, sunscreen and a hat.
- Agree the route and timings before boarding if booking independently.
- Avoid plastic waste – the backwaters are fragile.
- Combine the boat ride with a sunset walk on Alleppey beach.
See our full Kerala tour package and message us on WhatsApp to book.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Alleppey houseboat?
It is a converted traditional rice barge (kettuvallam) fitted with bedrooms, a deck and a kitchen, used for cruises on the Kerala backwaters.
Is a day cruise or an overnight houseboat better?
An overnight stay gives you sunset and sunrise on the water. A day cruise is good if you have limited time.
Do houseboats cruise at night?
Generally no. Boats anchor by the bank after dark and cruise again in the morning.
What is the best time for an Alleppey houseboat?
September to March for sunny weather. The monsoon is quieter and atmospheric.
Is vegetarian food available on houseboats?
Yes. Inform the crew in advance and they will prepare vegetarian or Jain meals.
Is backwater boating included in your Kerala package?
Yes, our Kerala package includes backwater boating in Alleppey and a night stay there.
How far is Alleppey from Kochi?
About 55 km, roughly 1.5 hours by road.
How do I book the Kerala tour?
Tap "Book on WhatsApp" on the Kerala package page or message +91 89102 77805.
