Kerala Backwaters are a unique ecosystem that is home to many of plants and animals. Including coconut groves, mangrove forests, and a variety of fish and bird species. It is one of the major tourist attractions in Kerala which you should not miss. Houseboats also known as Kettuvalloms are great way to relax, unwind, and reconnect with nature.
Kerala backwaters activities
Kerala backwaters are a unique and fascinating destination that offers a wide range of activities to make your visit more interesting and memorable. Here are few examples:
- Boat rides and houseboat cruises
- Kayaking and canoeing
- Village walks and cultural tours
- Ayurvedic massages and spa treatments
- Yoga and meditation sessions
- Visiting temples and other historical places
Already in Kerala? Are you already in Kerala and want to explore more beautiful places and hidden gems? Check all the unmissable things to do in Kerala.
Houseboat cruise from Allepey
We decided to explore Kerala backwaters on a houseboat. There are many tours and houseboats to choose from. You can go with a private boat or you can book a cruise with other people. We chose to go on a private cruise and it was the best decision. We made a booking with amazing company called Kera Houseboats. They have many houseboat packages so definitely go and check services they offer.
How to get to Allepey
By air
Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport that is around 75 km away from the Alleppey. From the airport you can get a taxi or you can go by bus. Taxi would be very expensive option. Bus is very cheap option. At first you have to get from airport to Aluva bus station. From there you can get a direct bus to Allepey. Price for direct bus should be around 130 rupees – 1,5 €.
By train
Alleppey Railway Station is located close to the backwaters. Railway station is connected with major cities. From railway station you can get a taxi or tuktuk. We recommend to get a tuktuk because it is cheaper option. In case you have a lot of luggage you should probably go by taxi.
By bus
You can easily get to Allepey by bus from all the major cities like Trivandrum, Cochin or Bengaluru. Taking a bus is the cheapest option. Buses are operated by Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) and private operators. KSRTC buses are usually without AC and private buses sometimes have AC.
Prices and how to book houseboat cruise
You can either book everything in advance online or you can go there a choose. We always book everything in advance and for us it is more convenient. Price for houseboat cruise starts at around 6000 indian rupees – 68€ per night. Price can go up to 24 000 indian rupees – 270 €.
Our experience with Kera houseboats
This was our houseboat. There was one bedroom, kitchen, dining area and spacious upper deck with seating area. We were only 4 people on the boat. Me, Nika, chef and captain.
First time we saw our room we were really surprised. It was nice, decorated and clean. We had our own bathroom. What I really didn’t expect was AC. Basically we had everything we needed. Staff was amazing. They were very friendly and they smiled a lot. Both of them were speaking english on a good level. They made so delicious food! We loved it! They were able to prepare everything according to our needs – zero spicy food.
Our journey started with the amazing lunch which we had during a cruise. After that we had plenty of time to enjoy our beautiful day on the boat. First cruise was 4 hours long. At first we had a chance to discover the biggest lake Vombanad in whole India. It was really peaceful and calm. We finally had an opportunity to relax after a long time. During our cruise we stopped at abandoned Christian church. Next stop was next to a palm trees. People collect fresh coconut water there from which they make alcohol called toddy. It was an interesting experience.
We had a pleasant breeze in our hair throughout our cruise. We were completely alone on top floor. There we had one couch, bluetooth speaker and comfortable bed with the best view. On the way back we witnessed beautiful sunset with sooo romantic atmosphere. After we arrived at the dock, we had a romantic dinner alone. We spent wonderful night there. Next day in the morning we had one more cruise ahead of us. It was just 1 hour long between 8 am and 9 am. During this cruise we had delicious breakfast full of vitamins.
At 9 am it was time to check out. It was really memorable and peaceful experience. If you would like to visit this area you should definitely book your cruise with Kera Houseboats and you will not regret any minute on a boat!