From Kochi: Alappuzha Backwaters Houseboat Cruise

Keen to see Kerala from a different angle? A 2-day Alappuzha backwaters houseboat cruise from Kochi offers an immersive way to enjoy this lush landscape. For $187 per person, you’ll spend your nights comfortably on a deluxe, air-conditioned houseboat, drifting through coconut palms and rice paddies while enjoying delicious local cuisine. This experience is well-rated at 4.1, promising a reliable and authentic journey.

What we love most: First, the sheer serenity of floating past paddy fields and traditional villages, which makes the backwaters feel like an untouched slice of paradise. Second, the onboard meals—a set menu lunch, dinner, and breakfast—highlight how Kerala’s flavors are woven into every part of this trip, making the journey not just visual but also culinary.

A possible consideration: Since there’s no dedicated tour guide on board, you’ll be primarily observing rather than learning about the area’s history or culture in-depth. If you’re craving detailed narration or a guided experience, this might feel a little light on context.

This tour suits travelers seeking tranquility, scenic beauty, and a taste of local life without too much logistical fuss. It’s ideal for those who love relaxing on the water, are comfortable with a private group setting, and want to enjoy authentic Kerala cuisine in a unique setting.

Key Points

• Authentic backwater experience: Glide through rice paddies and coconut groves on a deluxe houseboat.
• Local cuisine onboard: Enjoy set menus for lunch, dinner, and breakfast, highlighting Kerala flavors.
• Comfort and convenience: Air-conditioned houseboats and hotel pickup make logistics easy.
• Authentic, relaxed pace: No large crowds or guided tours—just peaceful drifting and scenic views.
• Ideal for tranquil escapes: Perfect for travelers who want a scenic, leisurely experience.
• Limited guided info: No formal guide onboard—passive sightseeing with crew care.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Alappuzha Backwaters Houseboat Experience

First Impressions and Booking

Booking this tour through Taj Voyages Tour – TVT India is straightforward, with options to reserve now and pay later. Its rating of 4.1 suggests most travelers find it meets expectations, although some may wish for a bit more storytelling during the cruise. The price of $187 per person includes transportation, meals, and the houseboat stay—a package that many find good value considering the comfort and the experience of drifting through Kerala’s iconic waters.

The Pickup and Transfer

Your journey begins with a pickup from your hotel or the airport in Kochi—an appreciated convenience that takes away the hassle of organizing local transport. The driver then drives you to Alappuzha, known locally as Alleppey, the hub of Kerala’s backwaters. The transfer is usually smooth, and the scenery along the way offers glimpses of bustling town life giving way to rural tranquility.

Boarding the Houseboat

Once you arrive at the dock, the atmosphere shifts to a quiet, almost meditative pace. You’ll board a deluxe houseboat, which promises air-conditioning—a welcome feature after a hot day exploring Kochi. The crew of three onboard is there to take care of your needs, serving meals and ensuring your comfort, but you’re generally left to soak in the scenery at your own pace.

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The Scenic Cruise: Day 1

As the houseboat gently drifts away from the dock, you’ll immediately notice the calm waters and the lush surrounds. The boat’s large windows and open deck are perfect for photography and just soaking in the views. The crew navigates through narrow canals, past paddy fields where farmers tend to their crops, and coconut palms lining the banks. Many reviewers mention how peaceful it feels, with some describing it as a “floating meditation” on Kerala’s natural beauty.

Highlights of the cruise include passing through small villages where locals go about their daily routines, often waving as you drift past. You might see children playing, women washing clothes by the water, or fishermen casting their nets. The riverbanks are lively yet tranquil, a reminder of a slower, more traditional way of life.

The Meals: Savoring Kerala Flavors

Meals onboard are a highlight, with a set menu lunch, dinner, and breakfast. The food is typically Kerala-style, often featuring rice, fresh vegetables, fish, and aromatic spices. The emphasis on local cuisine means you get a genuine taste of the region, which many find delightful. Several reviews praise the meals as “fresh and flavorful,” making the whole experience more authentic.

The Night on the Water

Spending the night on the houseboat is a unique experience. Unlike hotel stays, you’re essentially floating in a cozy, well-appointed vessel. The air-conditioning helps keep things comfortable, and the gentle rocking of the boat makes for restful sleep. Some visitors mention that the experience of hearing only water lapping against the hull and the sounds of nature outside is incredibly calming.

Morning and Disembarkation

The cruise concludes around 9:00 AM the next day, after a leisurely breakfast. From there, you are transferred back to Kochi, arriving around 11:00 AM. The timing allows for a relaxed morning, and many travelers appreciate that the overall schedule isn’t rushed.

What the Reviews Say

Feedback on this tour is generally positive—most guests value the tranquil scenery and onboard meals. One reviewer said, “We loved the way the houseboat glided through the backwaters, past rice paddies and coconut groves—such a peaceful way to see Kerala.” Others have noted that the crew is attentive, though some wished for more detailed commentary about the surroundings.

However, since the trip doesn’t include a guide, you’ll want to do some light reading beforehand or go with a curious mindset. It’s more about observing and relaxing rather than learning, which suits many, but might not satisfy history buffs or those wanting detailed cultural insights.

Price and Value

At $187 per person, this experience offers good value considering the comfort of the houseboat, meals included, and door-to-door transfer. Compared to similar experiences in other parts of India or Southeast Asia, the price reflects the quality of the accommodation and the convenience. For travelers seeking a hassle-free way to enjoy Kerala’s scenic backwaters, this tour hits the right notes.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is best suited for travelers who want a peaceful, scenic escape rather than a guided or educational tour. It’s ideal if you prioritize comfort, delicious local food, and authentic scenery over historical narration. It’s not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those over 95 due to the physical demands and seating arrangements, but otherwise, most adults will find it an enchanting experience.

Final Thoughts

This Kochi to Alappuzha houseboat cruise offers a wonderful way to slow down and see Kerala’s famed backwaters up close. The combination of serene waters, lush scenery, and tasty local cuisine makes it a standout experience for those seeking relaxation and simple beauty. While it doesn’t include guided storytelling, the onboard crew’s attentiveness and the environment’s tranquility provide plenty of value.

If your idea of travel includes drifting along peaceful waterways, enjoying authentic food, and witnessing rural life from a comfortable vessel, this tour deserves a spot on your Kerala itinerary. It’s an easy, enjoyable way to experience the true essence of Kerala’s unique landscape.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, the driver picks you up from your hotel or airport in Kochi and drives you to Alappuzha for boarding.

How long is the cruise?
It’s a 2-day experience, with the first day spent cruising and staying overnight on the houseboat, and the second day ending around 9:00 AM after breakfast.

What meals are included?
You’ll enjoy a set menu lunch, dinner, and breakfast featuring local Kerala cuisine.

Is a tour guide provided onboard?
No, the cruise doesn’t include a guide. You’ll mostly observe the scenery, with crew members attending to your needs.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the houseboat air-conditioned?
Yes, the deluxe houseboat offers air-conditioning, which helps keep you comfortable overnight.

Who is this tour suitable for?
Most adults seeking a tranquil, scenic experience will enjoy this tour. It’s not recommended for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those over 95.

How much does it cost?
The full price is $187 per person, which includes accommodation, meals, and transfers—considered a good value for a two-day experience.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable clothes and shoes, and some cash for extras or souvenirs.

This houseboat cruise from Kochi to Alappuzha offers a peaceful, immersive slice of Kerala life, with comfort and authenticity woven into every moment. Perfect for relaxed travelers eager to see Kerala from the water, it provides a memorable, scenic escape that’s both restful and genuinely local.

You can check availability for your dates here: