Imagine gliding through tranquil waters flanked by swaying palms, lush rice paddies, and peaceful villages. The sound of birdsong, the occasional splash of oars, and the scent of fresh coconut in the air. Welcome to Kerala’s backwaters—a dreamy escape into one of India’s most scenic and soulful landscapes.
For international travelers seeking serenity, slow travel, and cultural immersion, the backwaters of Kerala—especially through a houseboat experience—are a must-do.
Here’s everything you need to know to make your journey through the backwaters truly unforgettable.
🌊 What Are the Kerala Backwaters?
The Kerala backwaters are a vast network of lagoons, lakes, canals, and rivers that stretch along the Arabian Sea coast in southern India. They’re an intricate and beautiful water world that supports a traditional way of life for thousands of locals.
Some of the most popular backwater destinations include:
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Alleppey (Alappuzha) – The most famous and best developed for houseboat tourism
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Kumarakom – More peaceful, bird-rich, and ideal for nature lovers
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Kollam – A less-touristy option with longer cruises
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Kuttanad – Known as the “Rice Bowl of Kerala”
🚤 The Houseboat Experience: What to Expect
What Is a Houseboat?
Known locally as “kettuvallams”, these are traditional rice barges that have been converted into luxurious floating homes. They come with modern amenities such as:
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Private bedrooms with attached bathrooms
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A dining area and sundeck
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Air conditioning (in some boats)
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Onboard chefs preparing local Kerala cuisine
Types of Houseboats
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1-bedroom boats – Ideal for couples or solo travelers
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2–3 bedroom boats – Great for families or small groups
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Premium/Luxury boats – With AC, better furnishings, and private staff
Tip: Always check if the AC is available during the day or only at night, as policies vary.
📅 Best Time to Visit the Kerala Backwaters
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Peak Season: November to February – Pleasant weather and blue skies
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Off-Season (Monsoon): June to September – Lush greenery and fewer tourists (great for budget travelers and photography)
🗓️ Sample 1-Night Houseboat Itinerary
Day 1:
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12:00 PM: Check-in at the Alleppey or Kumarakom boat jetty
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Welcome drink served; boat begins its slow cruise through canals
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Enjoy a traditional Kerala lunch on board
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Stop at a village or toddy shop (optional)
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Evening tea and sunset viewing from the deck
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Dinner and overnight stay anchored in a quiet location
Day 2:
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Early morning cruise (optional)
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Breakfast served on board
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9:00 AM: Disembark and continue your journey
Note: Longer itineraries (2–3 nights) allow for deeper exploration, especially from Kollam to Alleppey.
🍛 What You’ll Eat on a Houseboat
Kerala houseboats offer delicious, home-style meals using local ingredients. Typical dishes include:
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Fish curry or karimeen pollichathu (pearl spot fish grilled in banana leaf)
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Vegetable thoran, sambar, rice, and papadam
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Banana fritters, fresh juice, and coconut-based desserts
Dietary needs? Most houseboat operators can cater to vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets with advance notice.
📍 Where to Book a Houseboat
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Online Travel Platforms: Booking.com, SaffronStays, Spice Routes, Lakes & Lagoons
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Local Tour Operators: Often more affordable and customizable
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Hotels/Resorts: Many in Alleppey or Kumarakom offer packages with pickups and drops
Pro Tip: Choose a licensed and well-reviewed operator to ensure safety, hygiene, and service quality.
🧭 Travel Tips for International Visitors
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Getting There: Nearest airport is Cochin International Airport (COK); Alleppey is ~2 hours by road.
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Health: Use bottled or filtered water. Apply mosquito repellent in the evenings.
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Cash: Keep some Indian Rupees (INR) for tips and small purchases; many boats don’t accept cards.
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Shoes: Easy slip-ons are best for getting on/off the boat and walking on deck.
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Packing: Light clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and a good camera!
🕊️ Beyond the Backwaters: What Else to Explore in Kerala
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Fort Kochi – For colonial charm and culture
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Munnar – Tea plantations and mountain views
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Thekkady – Spice gardens and Periyar wildlife sanctuary
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Varkala/Kovalam – For beaches and coastal relaxation
You can easily combine your backwater cruise with a Kerala circuit itinerary.
✨ Final Thoughts
The backwaters of Kerala offer a gentle, soulful side of India that’s perfect for first-time visitors or those seeking peace, romance, and nature. A houseboat experience allows you to disconnect from the rush, connect with nature, and witness a way of life that has flowed with the tides for generations.
Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, this journey is sure to become a highlight of your Indian adventure.
Have questions about booking your Kerala houseboat or want help planning your itinerary? Drop a comment below or reach out—we’re here to help you float into tranquility!
