Private Backwater Cruise on a Houseboat and Shikara including Lunch

Kochi , India

Private Backwater Cruise on a Houseboat and Shikara including Lunch

Active

(1 reviews)

6h - 8h

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.<br>If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Private, backwaters houseboat and shikara cruise with lunch includes return transfers in private, air-conditioned vehicle from Kochi, Alleppey, or Kumarakom. Depending upon the pick-up location, the total duration of the tour will vary between 6 and 8 hours, with the cruise duration being approximately 4 hours in the houseboat and 1 hour in a shikara.

Available options

Houseboat & Shikara

Pickup included

Shikara

Private backwaters cruise in Shikara. Includes return transfers in private AC vehicle from Kochi or Alleppey or Kumarakom.<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Cruise on a Shikara

All taxes, fees and handling charges

Lunch

Return transfers from Kochi, Alleppey or Kumarakom

Cruise on a private houseboat

Detailed itinerary

Commence your tour with a morning with pickup from your hotel for the drive to Alleppy, where you'll board your houseboat. Enjoy a welcome drink as the 4-hour cruise begins along Punnamada Lake, home to Nehru trophy boat race. Admire the breathtaking views of the lake, and observe the glimpse of village life as you travel past the banks. The boat stops for a lavish lunch of traditional Kerala cuisine.

Thereafter transfer to a shikara to navigate the narrow waterways and shallow channels. Shikara is a traditional motorized canoe with its roof covered. However, all the sides are open and there are cushioned seats to sit on. It is just a miniature form of houseboat. Make your way past rural fishing villages and lush jungle landscapes. Then continue cruising, passing by rice paddies, palm-lined canals, and churches. In the late afternoon, enjoy coffee or tea with Kerala-style snacks before your cruise ends in the early evening.

Disembark between 3pm and 5pm, and your private driver will drive you from Alleppey back to your hotel in Kochi, Alleppey or Kumarakom.

What's not included

Gratuities

Guide

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 4.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Kochi is the new name for Cochin; Alappuzha is the new name for Alleppey

Please note that neither the houseboat nor the smaller shikara have any air-conditioning, although there is generally a breeze blowing while cruising

Important notes

• The tour might not operate in extreme weather conditions, especially if it is raining heavily (usually in July & August)
• Due to uneven surfaces, this tour is not recommended for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, you must contact the local service provider to verify your exact pickup 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.