Houseboat Tour In Alleppey Backwaters From Cochin

Kochi , India

Houseboat Tour In Alleppey Backwaters From Cochin

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About this experience

Cruise along the canals of the backwaters of Alleppey in a houseboat, witnessing the rich culture and village life of South India. The calm and serene waters offer a great way to spend a lazy morning gliding past paddy fields and villages under the clear blue skies. Take lunch on board the houseboat and spend the afternoon exploring Fort Kochi, the first European township in India.

Highlights
• Houseboat ride on the backwaters
• Scenic beauty of the palm lined waterways
• Chinese fishing nets near Fort Kochi

Available options

2-8 Travelers

Price per person for 2-8 travelers<br/>Pickup included

What's included

02 bottles of mineral water per person

Hotel pick-up and drop-off

Transport by private air-conditioned vehicle

Houseboat tour

Buffet lunch on board the houseboat (beverage excluded)

Local English speaking guide

Detailed itinerary

You will be picked up from your hotel in Cochin in the morning and driven to Alleppey, which is one and half hour’s drive from Cochin.

Once in Alleppey you will board a houseboat and spend the next few hours exploring the backwaters of the area. Unwind as your houseboat glides past lush green vegetation, paddy fields, coconut palms, temples and villages. The palms lining the waterways and the flocks of ducks and birds along the banks are a delight to watch.

Lunch (beverage excluded) will be served on board the houseboat. The scenic beauty around you will make it a truly memorable experience.

After lunch you will be driven back to Cochin where you will explore the quaint neighborhood of Fort Kochi. With its cobblestoned streets, the area is a reflection of the links with various cultures that grew with the flourishing spice trade. Also, explore the beach area from where you can see the large Chinese fishing nets.

Kochi was a fishing village in the pre-colonial era. The King of Kochi granted the area around Fort Kochi to the Portuguese in 1503 in return for their assistance in fending off the army of the Kingdom of Kozhikode. The Portuguese built a fort near the waterfront for their trade with India. The fort remained in Portuguese possession for 160 years. In 1683 the Dutch captured the fort and held it for 112 years until they were defeated by the British in 1795. The fort came under Indian control in 1947 when India gained independence from the British.

Once your tour will be finished you will be driven back to fixed point / your hotel.

What's not included

Additional food or drink, unless specified

Gratuities (optional)

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Adult pricing applies to all travelers.

Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking.

Minimum 02 travellers required at the time of booking for this tour.

Children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult.

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.