If you’re planning a trip to Alappuzha, you’re in for a treat. This Kerala town is famous for its backwaters, houseboats, and vibrant village life. The best way to experience this unique landscape is through a tour—something that lets you glide past lush greenery, observe local life up close, and enjoy the slow rhythm of life on the water. We’re especially fond of the Shikara Boat Ride with Village Tour for its peaceful scenery and cultural insights. It captures what makes Alappuzha special—an authentic, relaxed experience that takes you beyond the usual tourist spots.
Alappuzha offers a variety of tours suited to different tastes and schedules. Whether you want a quick day cruise, an immersive multi-day houseboat journey, or a cultural exploration of temples and wildlife, there’s something for all. The list below highlights the best options, providing practical details, unique features, and honest insights to help you choose.
1. Alleppey: Shikara Boat Ride with Village Tour & Canal Cruise
Discover Kerala’s backwaters on a peaceful journey through Alleppey with a traditional shikara or luxury houseboat. This tour offers a chance to glide through serene canals, lush lagoons, and charming villages, all while learning about local culture and history from your experienced crew. The itinerary can be tailored for half-day or full-day experiences, making it flexible for different schedules. Many travelers love the intimate nature of the private boat, which allows for more personalized interactions and navigating narrow waterways inaccessible to larger vessels.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of tranquility and culture, with local stories shared along the way. It’s a perfect option for those wanting a relaxed, authentic experience that avoids the crowds. With a rating of 4.9/5 from 21 reviews, it’s clear that most visitors find it a worthwhile and memorable experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a quiet, scenic cruise with cultural insights and flexible timing.
2. Kerala: Alappuzha River Cruise with Village Walk
At number 2, this Alleppey River Cruise combines a tranquil shikara ride with an immersive village walk. It emphasizes local interaction, offering insights into traditional village life from your knowledgeable boatman and walking guide. The private nature of this tour means you can enjoy the backwaters without the bustle, and the scenic sunset views add a magical touch. Guests appreciate the stories and narratives shared by the crew, making it more than just a boat ride.
The tour includes a traditional Kerala meal, enhancing the cultural experience. The small group size and personalized approach make it a favorite among travelers wanting a deeper connection with local customs. With a 4.8/5 rating from five reviews, it’s a compact but highly praised option for those interested in cultural authenticity.
Bottom Line: Perfect for culture lovers wanting a personalized, scenic, and culinary experience.
3. Alappuzha Shikara Backwaters and Village Tour
Coming in at number 3, this shikara backwater and village tour takes you through the lush greenery and peaceful canals of Alleppey. Designed for small groups (up to 8 people), it offers an intimate look at rural life and wildlife. The focus here is on nature and tranquility, and the calm waters are ideal for spotting local birdlife and enjoying the serene scenery.
This tour’s value lies in its slow pace and personalized service, making it well-suited for travelers who prefer a less hurried, more authentic experience. The price of $68 per group makes it a good investment for those wanting a private tour with detailed local insights.
Bottom Line: Best for nature enthusiasts seeking a peaceful, private cruise with opportunities to observe local life.
4. From Cochin: 5 Day Private Kerala Tour with 3 & 4 Star Hotel
At number 4, this 5-day private tour from Cochin offers a comprehensive Kerala experience. It includes visits to Eravikulam National Park (home to the Nilgiri Tahr), Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary, and a houseboat cruise through Alleppey’s backwaters. The itinerary is carefully curated for those who want a mix of nature, wildlife, and cultural sights.
The tour is rated 5/5 based on one review, emphasizing the well-organized nature and knowledgeable guides. It’s a good pick for travelers with limited time who want a balanced introduction to Kerala’s highlights. The price of $376 per person reflects the luxury experience and diverse activities included.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers who want a luxury, multi-day experience combining nature, wildlife, and backwater relaxation.
$376 per person
5. From Cochin: Alleppey Houseboat Day Tour with Lunch
Number 5 is a full-day houseboat experience from Cochin, focusing on backwater landscapes and local cuisine. For around $158, you get a 10-hour tour with lunch onboard, allowing you to see the best of Alleppey’s waterways without an overnight commitment. The itinerary covers photo stops, village visits, and scenic canal cruising.
The highlight is the authentic Kerala meal served onboard, which enhances the experience of rural life and cultural flavor. It’s a flexible option for those with a busy schedule who want a comprehensive day trip. The trip suits travelers looking for value for money and a guided experience rather than self-navigation.
Bottom Line: Great for those who want a full immersion into Kerala’s backwaters in a single day with local cuisine included.
$158 per person
6. PRIVATE 6 DAYS BEST OF TAMIL NADU TOUR WITH CAR AND DRIVER
This 6-day private journey takes you beyond Kerala to explore Tamil Nadu’s iconic temples and cultural sites. It includes Kanchipuram’s temples, Trichy’s UNESCO monuments, Madurai’s vibrant markets, and a relaxing stay in Alleppey’s backwaters. The tour combines temple exploration, scenic drives, and wildlife experiences.
With a 5/5 rating, it appeals to travelers wanting a comprehensive, guided experience with flexibility. The tour’s focus on culture and scenic drives makes it ideal for those interested in India’s diverse heritage. At $339 per person, it offers good value for a multi-day, all-inclusive package.
Bottom Line: Best suited for culturally curious travelers who want a guided, multi-region experience.
$339 per person
7. From Cochin: 4-Night/5-Day Kerala Tour
Number 7 offers a layered experience of Kerala over five days, highlighting backwaters, Munnar’s tea plantations, and Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. It’s designed for travelers wanting to see a variety of landscapes and cultural highlights. The tour includes houseboat cruises, nature walks, and visits to wellness centers.
Rated 4.2/5 from 13 reviews, this tour balances guided excursions with free time. It’s a good choice for those wanting to cover a lot of ground without rushing. The price of $364 makes it a reasonably priced option for a comprehensive tour.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a broad Kerala experience with a mix of nature, culture, and relaxation.
8. Alleppey Shikara Boat Ride
This shikara boat ride is a simple yet authentic experience that emphasizes local culture and scenery. Priced at $45 for groups up to 10, it’s a budget-friendly way to see the backwaters at a leisurely pace. The ride focuses on rural life, birdwatching, and scenic views.
Many find this tour to be a peaceful escape from busier tourist spots, with the guide sharing stories and insights. It’s perfect for casual travelers or those wanting to add on a relaxed backwater experience to their itinerary.
Bottom Line: Good for budget-conscious travelers who want a personalized, cultural backwater cruise.
9. Luxury Backwater Cruise – One-Day Private Tour from Kochi
Number 9 is a luxury day cruise from Kochi, offering a private houseboat experience with authentic Kerala cuisine onboard. Priced at $67 per person, it includes scenic canal cruising and village visits. The tour is designed for those who want a high-end, personalized experience in a shorter timeframe.
It’s rated 4.3/5, with reviewers noting the exclusive service and beautiful scenery. The flexibility and private nature make it suitable for romantic getaways or special occasions.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers seeking a luxury, private backwater experience with personalized service.
10. Cochin: 5-Day Munnar, Thekkady, and Alleppey Tour
This 5-day private tour from Cochin covers Munnar’s tea plantations, Periyar Sanctuary, and Alleppey’s backwaters. It combines nature, wildlife, and cultural sights with comfortable transport and guided commentary. Rated 4/5, it’s suited for those wanting a balanced introduction to Kerala.
With a focus on sightseeing and relaxation, it’s a good value at $355 per person, especially for travelers who want to see multiple regions without managing logistics themselves. It’s perfect for families or couples interested in a comprehensive Kerala experience.
Bottom Line: Suitable for those wanting an all-in-one package covering Kerala’s highlights.
11. Exclusive Same Day Kerala Houseboat Cruise Tour in Alleppey
This same-day houseboat cruise offers a quick immersion into Kerala’s backwaters. For just $42, you’ll enjoy a freshly cooked Kerala lunch and views of local village life. The tour starts in late afternoon, offering a short but sweet experience.
It’s an excellent choice for short-stay visitors or those wanting a taster of the backwaters without overnight planning. The review rating of 4/5 suggests it’s a dependable, straightforward experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers with limited time seeking a snapshot of Kerala’s backwater charm.
$42 per person
12. Overnight Alleppey Houseboat Cruise Tour (Kerala Beauty)
This overnight houseboat offers a more immersive experience, allowing you to sleep on the water and enjoy sunsets and early mornings on the backwaters. Priced at $43 per person, it’s quite affordable considering the extended experience.
Rated 1/5 (though based on only one review), it suggests that some guests may have had mixed expectations, but the setup is attractive for those wanting a multi-hour, relaxing cruise. Expect beautiful scenery and quiet moments.
Bottom Line: For those wanting to spend a night on the water, it’s a quiet, low-cost option to consider.
$43 per person
13. Agra Temples and Spiritual Sites Private 6-Hour Tour
This tour focuses on spiritual sites and temples in Kerala rather than Agra, exploring Shri Mankameshwar Mahadev Temple and Jama Masjid. It’s a 6-hour private experience ideal for those interested in religious architecture and local rituals.
Rated without reviews, it’s a niche option for spiritual curiosity. It’s suitable for travelers wanting a guided exploration of India’s religious diversity and significant temples.
Bottom Line: Great for culturally or spiritually inclined travelers wanting a focused, guided tour.
$28 per person
14. Alappuzha: Private Backwater Cruising & Walking in Alleppey
This private tour combines backwater cruising with village walks in Alleppey, offering a slow-paced exploration of rivers, canals, and local farms. It’s perfect for travelers who want more interaction and authenticity.
The price of $62 per person makes it a reasonable choice for a personalized, flexible experience. Expect to see local life firsthand and cultural surprises—an essential for adventurous travelers.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a hands-on, local experience with plenty of stopping points.
$62 per person
15. Alleppey Kayaking and Shikkara Boat Tour with Local Meal
Last but not least, this kayaking and shikkara combo offers a dynamic way to explore Alleppey’s backwaters. For $51 per person, you paddle through narrow canals, enjoy a traditional meal, and cruise on a Shikkara boat. The tour ends with a speed boat ride—adding an element of thrill.
It’s great for active travelers looking to combine physical activity with cultural experiences. The local meal on banana leaves adds a taste of Kerala you won’t forget.
Bottom Line: Perfect for adventurers who want a hands-on, varied experience with a mix of paddling, cruising, and culinary delights.
$51 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour in Alappuzha
Choosing the best tour depends on your interests, schedule, and budget. If you crave a peaceful, cultural experience, the Shikara Boat Ride with Village Tour is hard to beat. For those wanting a comprehensive multi-day adventure, the 5-Day Kerala Tour from Cochin offers a well-rounded package. Travelers seeking luxury and privacy might prefer the private backwater cruise from Kochi, while adventurous types will enjoy kayaking combined with local meals.
Consider your time constraints—a day trip like the houseboat day tour is perfect for a quick taste, while the overnight cruises allow for a deeper connection with the landscape. Budget-wise, options range from affordable rides under $50 to more luxury experiences exceeding $300. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred dates.
Final Thoughts
Alappuzha offers a rich variety of tours that showcase its backwaters, wildlife, and culture. If you’re after serenity and a taste of local life, the Alleppey Shikara Boat Ride is a quiet, intimate choice. For a multi-day, all-encompassing journey, the 5-day Kerala tour from Cochin provides a well-rounded experience. And if you want to combine adventure and culture, the kayaking tour with local meal will satisfy your craving for activity and authenticity.
Booking early and choosing the right experience for your style will ensure that your time in Alappuzha becomes a memorable chapter of your Kerala journey. Whatever your preference, these tours highlight the beauty, calm, and character of this remarkable place.