Private Full-Day Kerala Backwaters Houseboat Tour With Lunch & Pickup From Kochi
Active
7h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Kerala Backwater Houseboat Private Day Cruise with pickup from Kochi is ideal for anyone who has a day (10 to 15 hours) to spend around Kochi. Enjoy a private, seven hour houseboat day cruise in Alleppey or Kumarakom with Kerala lunch, tea, and snacks. Along the way you'll also behold sights of backwater village life and a number of activities. While on the cruise, enjoy Kerala food on a banana leaf for lunch from our Chef and dine on traditional Kerala snacks in the evening like banana fritters and sukhiyan.
Available options
Houseboat Day Cruise -7 Pax
Houseboat Day Cruise for 7 Guests with pickup and drop from Kochi without including the guide
Houseboat Day Cruise
Houseboat Private Day Cruise
What's included
5-Hour Boat Cruise
Private air-conditioned vehicle with Chauffeur to go from Kochi to Alleppey and back only for your group
Afternoon tea
Bottled water
Pickup and drop-off in your hotel Kochi/Fort Kochi or Kochi Airport
Lunch
Snacks
English Speaking Guide if you are booking the tour option with guide
What you'll see
We will pick you up from anywhere in Kochi and we will drive to Alleppey or Kumarakom as per your preference. If you are not staying in Kochi, you will be picked up near Princess Street in Fort Kochi. If you are arriving in the airport, Cochin Airport Pickup is available as well.
Our driver will pick you up by private A/C car and from there you will be driven to Kumarakom or Alleppey where you will check in to the Kerala houseboat . Enjoy a tender coconut welcome drink as the crew get ready for the cruise. Set out on an enchanting overnight backwater cruise in traditional Kerala style "Kettuvallam" Houseboat. While cruising in this floating vessel, let your eyes enjoy the scenes of the Kerala countryside as you skim past children waving at you, mowed down paddy fields, local inhabitants as they make coir products, rustic homes, ferry transporting fish and coconut and swaying coconut palms.
You will be served a traditional a Kerala lunch in a banana leaf at noon along with fish prepared in Kerala style. You may enjoy the lunch while the houseboat is cruising on these backwaters. Take a siesta or enjoy the scenes along the shores in the afternoon. Some of the typical scenes you will see include a ferry boat moving along with school children, people working in paddy fields, or a tuk tuk moving along the shore. Around 4 PM, you will be served tea along with snacks like banana fritters and biscuits. Check out from the houseboat in the evening and return back to Kochi by 7 PM after a wonderful day spent enjoying Kerala's famous backwaters. Go back with many memories of this beautiful and unique backwaters of Kerala.
We will customise the houseboat day tour for an early check in and early checkout based on your departure from ship or airport.
Please note that you will be provided with a trusted driver who can communicate with you and understand English. This individual is not a guide.
If you are looking for an English speaking guide, please book the tour option with guide. The guide will be with you from Kochi Pickup will Kochi Drop. Italian/Russian speaking guides are also available at a nominal extra charge.
What's not included
Alcoholic drinks (Available to purchase on prior request)
Expenses of any personal nature (Phone calls, laundry, and camera entry fee, etc)
Tips, Porter Charges, Airfare, Monument Entry Fee
Any additional expenses incurred due to any flight delay or cancellation, weather conditions, political closures, etc
Requirement for serving soft drinks and mild beverages will invite additional cost as per tariff, direct payment by guests.
Any other services not specified above
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.9
20 reviews
5★
17
4★
3
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults
Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
A minimum of 2 people per booking is required and 7 people for the special family package
A maximum of 14 people per booking
Meeting point
We will pick you up from anywhere in Kochi City, Airport or Railway Station
Important notes
• If you will not be arriving at your destination within the specified reconfirmation period, please reconfirm with the local service provider prior to travel, or upon arrival at your destination. Please note that departure times and locations may vary slightly.
• Please inform us of the pickup point 48 hours in advance by calling +919995004276
Hotel pickups commence approximately 30 - 60 minutes prior to this time
About Kochi
Kochi, known as the Queen of the Arabian Sea, is a vibrant port city in the southern Indian state of Kerala. It's a captivating blend of historical architecture, rich cultural heritage, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique experience.
Top Attractions
Fort Kochi
Fort Kochi is a historic area known for its colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and cultural landmarks. It's a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Historical
Half day to full day
Free to visit most attractions
Mattancherry Palace
Also known as the Dutch Palace, this 16th-century palace is a fine example of colonial architecture and houses a museum with artifacts from the era.
Historical
1-2 hours
INR 5 (USD 0.07) for Indians, INR 100 (USD 1.30) for foreigners
Jew Town
A historic area known for its Jewish heritage, vibrant markets, and antique shops. It's a great place to explore the city's multicultural past.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Free to explore, shopping expenses vary
Marine Drive
A picturesque promenade along the backwaters, offering stunning views of the sunset and the city's skyline. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Scenic
1-2 hours
Free
Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary
A small but beautiful bird sanctuary located in the heart of the city. It's a peaceful retreat for birdwatchers and nature lovers.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Appam with Stew
Appam is a soft, lacy pancake made from fermented rice batter and coconut milk, served with a mild and creamy vegetable or meat stew.
Breakfast
Vegetarian (if stew is vegetarian), Vegan (if stew is vegan)
Karimeen Pollichathu
A popular Kerala dish made with pearl spot fish, marinated in spices, and fried to perfection.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains fish
Kerala Parippu Curry
A comforting dal made with yellow lentils, coconut, and spices, served with rice or appam.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian, Vegan
Thalassery Biryani
A fragrant and flavorful biryani made with basmati rice, meat (chicken, mutton, or fish), and a blend of spices.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains meat (chicken, mutton, or fish)
Popular Activities
Backwater cruises
Kayaking
Trekking in Munnar
Beach relaxation in Kovalam
Ayurvedic massages
Houseboat stays in Alleppey
Exploring Fort Kochi
Visiting Mattancherry Palace
Best Time to Visit
October to February
This is the best time to visit Kochi, with pleasant weather and lower humidity. It's ideal for exploring the city's attractions and enjoying outdoor activities.
25°C to 32°C
77°F to 90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Malayalam
- Widely spoken: English, Hindi
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Indian Rupee (INR)
Time Zone
GMT+5:30
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Kochi is generally safe for travelers, but it's always important to stay vigilant and take common-sense precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Use trusted transportation services, such as app-based cabs or reputable taxi companies.
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services.
- • Keep your valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
Getting there
By air
- Cochin International Airport • 29 km (18 miles) from city center
By train
Ernakulam Junction, Ernakulam Town
By bus
KSRTC Bus Station, Private Bus Stand
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common and affordable mode of transport in Kochi. They cover most parts of the city and its suburbs.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Ola, Uber
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Fort Kochi
Mattancherry
Ernakulam
Vypeen Island
Day trips
Alleppey (Alappuzha)
55 km (34 miles) • Full day
Alleppey is famous for its backwaters, houseboat stays, and serene landscapes. It's a perfect day trip for those looking to experience the tranquility of Kerala's waterways.
Munnar
130 km (81 miles) • Full day or overnight
Munnar is a picturesque hill station known for its tea plantations, waterfalls, and scenic landscapes. It's a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Kovalam
16 km (10 miles) • Full day
Kovalam is a popular beach destination known for its beautiful beaches, lighthouse, and Ayurvedic treatment centers. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the sun and sand.
Festivals
Onam • August-September (dates vary based on the Malayalam calendar)
Kochi-Muziris Biennale • December to March (biennial, next edition in 2023)
Easter Celebrations • March-April (dates vary based on the Christian calendar)
Pro tips
- Visit the Chinese Fishing Nets in Fort Kochi early in the morning to see the fishermen at work.
- Try local street food, such as banana chips and Kathi rolls, for an authentic culinary experience.
- Explore the backwaters of Kochi by taking a ferry or a houseboat tour for a unique and scenic experience.
- Learn a few basic phrases in Malayalam to connect with locals and enhance your cultural experience.
- Attend a Kathakali performance or a Kalaripayattu demonstration to immerse yourself in Kerala's rich cultural heritage.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
