Kalappura Houseboats Combination Backwater Tour

Imagine drifting lazily across Vembanad Lake, passing through tranquil villages, lush paddy fields, and narrow canals that only small boats like these can navigate. For just $50 per person, this 6 to 8-hour experience combines the charm of a traditional houseboat cruise with a lively country boat ride, offering travelers a glimpse into Kerala’s peaceful, everyday life.

What truly sets this tour apart are the detailed, authentic experiences — you’ll get to see tiny village canals that larger tour boats can’t access, and enjoy delicious local meals onboard. Two things we love most? First, the intimate country boat ride through narrow, winding waterways, and second, the chance to see spectacular scenery—from lush rice paddies to bustling lakes—while relaxing on a comfortable, traditional houseboat.

One possible consideration is timing—the tour starts either early morning or late morning, so planning your day around that is essential. Also, because the houseboat cruise is based on availability, booking ahead will help secure the best options.

This tour suits travelers who crave authenticity and scenic beauty over high-paced sightseeing. Perfect for those who want an unhurried day on Kerala’s backwaters, enjoying local flavors and quiet village life away from the crowds.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Combines a houseboat cruise with a country boat ride through Kerala’s serene waterways.
• Cost-Effective: For around $50, you get a full day of scenic beauty, local food, and authentic village views.
• Flexible Timing: Tours run either morning or late morning, with durations from 3 to 8 hours.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups (max 8 travelers) ensure a more personal, relaxed experience.
• Scenic Variety: Includes visits to Punnamada Lake, Vembanad Lake, and the Kuttanad village area.
• Authentic Flavors: Meals served onboard are part of the charm, giving you a taste of local Kerala cuisine.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point and Duration

You’ll begin your journey at Kalappura HomeStay & Houseboats in Alappuzha, a hub for Kerala’s famous backwaters. The tour is designed to be flexible, with options starting at 6 am or 9 am, depending on your preference. Expect it to last about 6 to 8 hours, which means you have plenty of time to unwind and take in the scenery.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

The tour is divided into two main parts: the country boat ride and the houseboat cruise.

Country Boat Ride:
This segment lasts about an hour and takes you through the small, narrow canals of Kuttanad, often inaccessible to larger boats. The boats are small with retractable roofs, allowing you to pass under bridges and through culverts. During this ride, you’ll experience village life firsthand—seeing local homes, farmers working in fields, and the lush flora and fauna that flourish along these waterways.
One reviewer remarked, “The country boat went through all the small and narrow canals and under the bridges,” giving a vivid picture of how close and personal this part of the tour feels.

Houseboat Cruise:
Starting around 9 am, the houseboat begins its leisurely drift across large lakes and canals like Punnamada and Vembanad. Over the next three hours, you’ll enjoy scenic views of lakes, historical paddy fields, and vibrant village life. The houseboats glide at a comfortable pace, giving you ample time to admire the scenery, snap photos, and soak in the peaceful surroundings.
One traveler shared that the scenery was “beautiful and peaceful, a welcome respite from some of the chaotic cities I visited in India.”

Stops and Highlights

• Meenapalli Paddy Field: A stop during the country boat ride, offering a close-up view of Kerala’s famed rice paddies.
• Kuttanad Village: The houseboat cruise takes you through this essential area known for its unique, below-sea-level farming, providing insight into local agricultural practices.
• Scenic Lakes: The expansive Vembanad and Punnamada lakes are the main attractions, with their calm waters and surrounding greenery creating perfect photo opportunities.

Food and Comfort

Meals are included during the tour, and reviews point out that the food is delicious, featuring traditional Kerala dishes served onboard. The boat’s staff ensures that all needs are met, and the experience is both comfortable and authentic, with cozy, well-maintained boats.

The Group and Accessibility

With a maximum of 8 travelers, this experience maintains an intimate feel, allowing for personalized attention. The tour is suitable for most travelers, including those with service animals, and it’s accessible via public transportation, making it easy to reach the starting point.

Why Travelers Love This Tour

Many reviews emphasize the beautiful scenery and peacefulness of the experience. One reviewer called it “the highlight of my trip to India,” lauding the scenic backwaters and comfortable accommodations. Others appreciated the friendly staff and well-organized itinerary, which combined authentic village life with the relaxing cruise.

The delicious local food served onboard also gets high praise, adding a flavorful touch to the day. The combination of small boat rides through narrow canals and the expansive houseboat cruise offers a perfect balance of intimate exploration and grand scenic views.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying

• Book early to secure your preferred time and ensure availability, especially since houseboats are based on availability.
• Timing matters: Morning tours start early, which is perfect if you want to avoid afternoon heat or crowds.
• Bring a camera — the scenery is stunning, and you’ll want to capture the lush greenery, rice paddies, and village life.
• Prepare for weather: Kerala weather can be unpredictable; lightweight rain gear or hats might come in handy.
• Eat light beforehand if you’re sensitive to boat motion, though meals onboard are plentiful and delicious.
• Wear comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activities and perhaps bring a light jacket if you prefer.

How This Tour Compares to Others

Compared to large, less personalized backwater cruises, this tour offers a more authentic and intimate experience. The ability to explore tiny canals by country boat is a significant plus, giving you a window into local village life that bigger boats simply can’t reach.

The price point of $50 is quite reasonable considering the length, included meals, and personalized service. While some tours might offer similar scenery, few combine the two types of boats so smoothly, making this a value-packed option.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Experience?

If you’re looking for a relaxing day on Kerala’s backwaters that offers a genuine taste of local life, this tour hits the mark. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate scenic beauty, cultural authenticity, and delicious food, all wrapped into one affordable package. The small group size ensures a more personalized experience, perfect for those who prefer a slower pace and meaningful interactions.

However, if you’re on a tight schedule or looking for a high-energy, quick overview, this might be better suited as a half-day or shorter tour. But for contented, peaceful exploration—especially if you love picturesque landscapes and local flavor—this combination of houseboat and country boat rides is hard to beat.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $50 per person, including meals and both boat rides.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 3 to 8 hours, depending on the selected start time and availability.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Kalappura HomeStay & Houseboats in Alappuzha and concludes at the same point.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour start time for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, including those with service animals. The group size is small, ensuring a relaxed experience.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera, sun protection, and lightweight clothing. Optional items include rain gear, depending on the weather.

Are meals included?
Yes, delicious Kerala dishes are served onboard as part of the experience.

If you’re after a peaceful, authentic ride through Kerala’s famous backwaters with a blend of scenic beauty and local culture, the Kalappura Houseboats Combination Backwater Tour offers a delightful and affordable way to explore the region. It’s perfect for travelers who want to slow down, take in the views, and enjoy genuine village life from the comfort of a traditional boat.