Backwater Village Life Tour from Kochi –Country Boat: Local Lunch
Active
7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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About this experience
Authentic Kerala Backwater Cruise & Village Life Tour from Kochi
Experience the charm of Kerala’s backwaters on a peaceful Shikkara (country boat) cruise through palm-fringed canals and tranquil lagoons. Glide gently over the water, propelled by a motor or bamboo poles, and enjoy the soothing sounds of nature — the calls of the myna and koel birds. Your friendly boatmen may pause for a refreshing tender coconut or demonstrate toddy tapping, showing how coconut sap ferments into Kerala’s traditional palm wine.
Visit a Kerala village to see women spinning coir, weaving palm leaves, and, if time permits, explore a handloom weaving centre where cotton sarees are made on looms. Savor an authentic Kerala Sadya lunch served on a banana leaf at a local family home or an elite vegetarian restaurant.
After this memorable Kerala backwater and village tour, return comfortably to Kochi.
Available options
Hassle-Free Shared Tour
Hassle-Free shared Pickup.: Hassle-Free shared Pickup with Shared Backwater Cruise<br/>Pickup included
Private Backwater Tour
A Private boat/car/van used.: A private Car/Van is used for your travel from Kochi to Backwaterts. Private boat is used for cruising in backwaters.<br/>Pickup included
Private Transfer & Shared Boat
Veg. Lunch at Chosen Mess.: A traditional lunch at a village house or chosen mess.<br/>Private A/C Vehicle : A Sedan for 1 to 3 people. An SUV for 4 to 7 people. A Van for 8 to 15 people.
<br/>Pickup included
Afternoon Backwater Experience
Half Day Tour: 5 hours Tour <br/>Duration: 5 hours<br/>Lunch: Lunch at a Village House<br/>Private A/C Vehicle.: Private A/C Car/SUV/Van is provided surface transport according to group size. 1 to 3 a Sedan 4 to 7 a SUV 8 to 15 a Van <br/>Pickup included
Private Transport From Port
Private Transport & Cruise : Private Transport from Port & Shared Cruise<br/>Lunch: Lunch at a Village House. <br/>Private Car SUV Van.: The type of Vehicle varies according to group size. 1 to 3 people a Sedan, 1 to 7 people and 1 to 15 people a Van<br/>Pickup included
Morning Backwater Experience
Half day Tour: 5 hours Tour <br/>Duration: 5 hours<br/>Lunch: Lunch at a Village House<br/>Private A/C Vehicle.: Private A/C Car/SUV/Van is provided surface transport according to group size. 1 to 3 a Sedan 4 to 7 a SUV 8 to 15 a Van <br/>Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
All Fees and Taxes
A traditional Veg.Lunch at the village house or at a chosen mess is served.
Detailed itinerary
1
Murinjapzha is a village with meandering backwaters studded with beautiful houses of all styles and fashions built by the non resident Keralites. amongst them we will aslo find tiny old fashioned houses of those still live in here.
2
Poothotta is sleepy village on the way to the backwater destination Vaikom and famous Vaikom Siva Temple.
3
Udayamperoor or Diamper is famous for the Synod of Roman Catholics held 1799 CE for making Catholic church to be brought under the Pope of Rome. The Diamper Synadal Church is on our way to the backwaters.
4
Vaikom Mahadeva Temple is held as a powerful place of Shiva. The belief is that if a devotee worships before the Ucha puja, all his/her wishes are fulfilled.
What's not included
Private Transportation in those options where shared transport is included.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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
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