Private Backwater Cruise on a Houseboat and Shikara including Lunch

Exploring Kerala’s Backwaters: A Detailed Review of the Private Houseboat and Shikara Cruise

Taking a cruise through Kerala’s famous backwaters offers a peaceful, quintessential glimpse into this southern Indian state’s slower pace of life. This private tour combines the charm of a traditional houseboat and a nimble shikara, giving travelers a versatile perspective on the lush landscape, fishing villages, and rice paddies that make Kerala so unique. With a typical duration of 6 to 8 hours, this experience is designed to be both relaxing and visually captivating — ideal for those who want an authentic slice of Kerala’s waterways.

One aspect we particularly appreciate is the combination of boat types—the spacious houseboat offers a leisurely cruise along Punnamada Lake, while the smaller, open-sided shikara allows for a more intimate exploration of narrow canals. The included traditional Kerala lunch also stands out, providing a tasty way to enjoy local flavors right on the water.

However, it’s worth noting that neither vessel is air-conditioned, which might be a consideration for travelers sensitive to heat or humidity. The tour’s flexibility and the inclusion of transportation make it a good fit for various travelers, especially those who appreciate scenic, authentic environments over luxury.

Key Points

• Comfort and Convenience: All transportation, including pickup from Kochi, Alleppey, or Kumarakom, is arranged, smoothing out the logistics.
• Authentic Experience: Traveling on both a houseboat and shikara gives a well-rounded view of Kerala’s backwaters and village life.
• Culinary Highlights: Traditional Kerala cuisine for lunch and local snacks add extra flavor to the day.
• Scenic Diversity: From lakes and rice paddies to jungle and fishing villages, the views are varied and picturesque.
• Limited Climate Control: Neither vessel has air conditioning, so expect some breeze and warmth.
• Ideal For: Travelers seeking an immersive, relaxed day exploring Kerala’s waterways with authentic sights and tastes.

A Closer Look at the Kerala Backwater Experience

This tour promises a 6 to 8-hour journey that begins with a morning pickup, making it easy to settle into the day without the fuss of individual transport arrangements. The trip starts in Kochi, Alleppey, or Kumarakom, depending on your hotel location, offering flexibility for different travelers. From there, the drive to Alleppey sets the tone — a scenic ride through tropical landscapes, with glimpses of local life along the way.

The Houseboat Experience: Cruising Punnamada Lake

Once aboard the houseboat, you’re welcomed with a drink and a chance to settle into the spacious deck. The houseboat is comfortably sized — enough for your group to spread out and enjoy the views. As it glides along Punnamada Lake, you’ll marvel at the serene waters, with panoramic scenes of floating lotus flowers, traditional fishing boats, and distant village life.

Passengers often remark on the peaceful atmosphere; one reviewer described it as “a nice and relaxing experience,” where you can truly unwind and appreciate the natural beauty. The lunch served on the houseboat is typically a lavish spread of Kerala cuisine, with freshly cooked dishes that showcase local flavors. The meal allows you to sit back and enjoy the scenery while savoring dishes like fish curry, rice, and vegetable preparations — a highlight for many guests.

Transition to the Shikara: Narrow Waterways and Village Life

After the houseboat cruise, it’s time for a small transfer to a shikara, a traditional motorized canoe with an open-sided design. This miniature vessel is perfect for navigating the narrower canals and shallow channels, giving you access to areas that larger boats simply cannot reach. The journey on the shikara is often described as intimate and authentic — a closer look at rural fishing villages, lush jungles, and rice paddies.

What makes the shikara ride special is the chance to observe local daily life—fishermen casting nets, children playing along the banks, women washing clothes, and the occasional temple or church peeking through the greenery. One reviewer noted that the shikara’s open sides and cushioned seats make it a comfortable yet immersive way to experience the waterways.

Wildlife and Scenery: What to Expect

While the tour doesn’t focus heavily on wildlife, the lush jungle scenery along the canals is remarkable. Travelers might catch glimpses of palm trees, kingfishers, and other local birdlife. The fishing villages showcase Kerala’s traditional livelihood, with boats and nets as common sights.

Food and Refreshments: A Taste of Kerala

The included lunch is a major plus. It’s served on the houseboat, and reviewers often highlight the freshness and authenticity of the dishes. Along the way, you’ll also enjoy coffee, tea, and traditional snacks, providing a comfortable break amidst the calm waters. This culinary touch helps elevate the experience from merely scenic to gastronomically delightful.

Key Practical Details

The entire journey is designed to be highly convenient: pickup and drop-off are included, eliminating the need to arrange separate transport. The duration of 6 to 8 hours** makes it an ample half-day or full-day activity, fitting well into most itineraries. While the price of approximately $255 per person might seem steep for some, the combination of private transport, the scenic boat rides, lunch, and the overall immersive experience offers solid value for those eager to explore Kerala in a leisurely manner.

Authentic Insights from Past Travelers

One reviewer shared, “We had a perfect day; everything was nicely arranged. The driver was super nice and helpful,” emphasizing the smooth logistics. They also appreciated the private feel of the tour, as only their group participated, enhancing the sense of exclusivity and comfort.

Another review described the houseboat as “all for ourselves,” which suggests a peaceful, crowd-free experience — ideal for those who prefer personalized adventures. The lunch was specifically praised for being “freshly cooked by the chef,” an indication of the quality and authenticity you can expect.

Addressing Common Concerns

Since neither vessel has air conditioning, travelers should prepare for warm weather, especially during peak summer months. The breeze while cruising does help, but packing light clothing and sun protection is advisable. The timing starting at 9:00 am allows for a full day of exploration without feeling rushed.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour appeals most to those who crave an authentic, relaxed exploration of Kerala’s waterways. It’s perfect for travelers interested in local culture, scenic beauty, and culinary delights. Families, couples, and solo travelers who appreciate a private, intimate experience with flexible timing will find this cruise very rewarding.

It might be less suited for those seeking luxury amenities or air-conditioned comfort, given the open design of the boats. However, if you’re after a slow-paced, genuine glimpse of rural Kerala, with friendly guides and stunning scenery, this experience will hit the spot.

Final Thoughts

This private backwater cruise in Kerala offers a well-rounded, authentic glimpse into the region’s water-based lifestyle. The combination of a houseboat along Punnamada Lake and a shikara through narrow canals provides diverse perspectives on the landscape, wildlife, and village life. The included traditional lunch and snacks add a flavor of Kerala that complements the scenic journey.

While the lack of air conditioning might be a drawback for some, the gentle breeze and tranquil surroundings typically balance this out. The tour’s personalized setup, with pickup, private transport, and only your group participating, makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a peaceful, immersive day in Kerala’s backwaters.

Whether you’re interested in photography, local culture, or just a peaceful escape from busy city life, this experience offers a memorable, authentic glimpse of Kerala’s lush waterways. It’s especially suited for travelers who value comfort, privacy, and genuine cultural encounters on a scenic waterway.

FAQ

Is pickup included in this tour?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from Kochi, Alleppey, or Kumarakom, making it convenient to start your day stress-free.

How long does the entire experience last?
The tour lasts approximately 6 to 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each part of the cruise and the scenery.

Does the tour include meals?
Yes, a traditional Kerala lunch is included, served on the houseboat. You’ll also enjoy coffee, tea, and traditional snacks during the cruise.

Are there any amenities like air conditioning on the boats?
No, neither the houseboat nor the shikara has air conditioning. Expect a breeze while cruising, which helps keep things comfortable.

What kind of scenery can I expect?
You’ll pass jungle scenery, fishing villages, rice paddies, and palm-lined waterways, with chances to see local life up close.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are permitted up to 6 days in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if needed.

This detailed review should help you decide if this Kerala backwater experience matches your travel style, offering a balanced view of what to expect and how to make the most of it.