Experience Kerala's Backwaters

Discover the serene beauty of Kerala with our exclusive houseboat cruises. Enjoy luxurious floating stays amidst tranquil backwaters, coconut palms, and lush paddy fields. Your unforgettable journey awaits!

Top Houseboat Routes in Kerala

Alleppey to Kumarakom: The most popular route, offering stunning views of lush villages, paddy fields, and canals.
Kumarakom: Known for its bird sanctuary and Vembanad Lake views.
Kollam to Alappuzha: A less crowded, longer cruise with raw backwater beauty.
Kuttanad Region: Cruise through the “rice bowl of Kerala,” where farming is done below sea level.

Scenic view of Alleppey houseboat route with lush green banks and clear water.

Alleppey Backwaters

Experience the serene beauty of Alleppey's backwaters on a traditional houseboat.

Picturesque Kumarakom houseboat route with birds flying over the lake.

Kumarakom Lagoons

Discover the enchanting lagoons of Kumarakom, a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers.

Houseboat cruising through Kollam's Ashtamudi Lake with coconut trees lining the shore.

Kollam Ashtamudi

Explore the historic waterways of Kollam and the scenic Ashtamudi Lake on a houseboat.

Beautiful view of Alumkadavu houseboat route, known for its boat building heritage.

Alumkadavu Heritage

Journey through Alumkadavu, the birthplace of houseboats, and witness the art of boat building.

Types of Houseboats: Luxury to Budget

A luxurious houseboat suite with a king-size bed, elegant furnishings, and a private balcony overlooking a serene lake.

Luxury

Experience the ultimate in comfort and style with our luxury houseboats. Enjoy spacious suites, gourmet dining, and top-notch amenities.

Premium

Our premium houseboats offer a perfect balance of luxury and affordability. Enjoy comfortable accommodations, delicious meals, and a range of recreational activities.

A basic houseboat room with twin beds, simple furnishings, and a small window providing natural light.

Budget

Our budget houseboats provide a comfortable and affordable way to experience the beauty of the water. Enjoy basic amenities and a relaxing atmosphere.

What to Expect on a Kerala Houseboat

Enjoy freshly cooked Kerala meals onboard, scenic village life, and tranquil views. Most houseboats anchor at night, offering stargazing and peace. Expect clean cabins, private bathrooms, and warm hospitality.

A beautifully set dining table on the deck of a houseboat at sunset, with guests enjoying a meal. The scene is warm and inviting, showcasing the dining experience.

Gourmet Dining On Deck

Savor exquisite meals prepared with fresh, local ingredients while enjoying the gentle sway of the water and the stunning sunset views. Our onboard chef caters to all dietary needs.

A group of people stargazing on the top deck of a houseboat at night, with a clear view of the Milky Way. The atmosphere is peaceful and awe-inspiring.

Stargazing Under the Stars

Escape the city lights and immerse yourself in the beauty of the night sky. Our houseboats offer the perfect vantage point for stargazing, with minimal light pollution and comfortable viewing areas.

A houseboat gently anchored in a calm bay at night, with soft lights illuminating the deck. The scene is serene and peaceful, highlighting the tranquility of anchoring at night.

Peaceful Anchoring at Night

Drift off to sleep in the gentle embrace of the water as we anchor in secluded bays. Enjoy the peace and quiet of nature, far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Best Time for a Houseboat Cruise

October to March (Best): Cool, dry weather.
April to May: Hot but budget-friendly.
June to September: Monsoon magic for rain lovers, but with limited visibility.

Booking Tips

Book accommodations and tours in advance, especially during peak season. Consider weekdays for lower prices and fewer tourists. Look for package deals that combine accommodations and activities for cost savings.

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Booking Tips for Houseboats in Kerala

Compare operators, routes, and amenities.
Ensure AC, meals, and taxes are included.
Book directly or via trusted agents.
Weekday bookings are quieter and cheaper.
Communicate dietary needs early.

Photography Tips

Shoot during sunrise/sunset for golden lighting.
Use wide-angle lenses for landscapes and close-ups for village life.
Protect gear from water and always ask permission before photographing locals.

Eco-Friendly Houseboat Travel

Choose eco-certified operators, avoid plastics, conserve water/electricity, and support local communities. Help preserve Kerala’s backwater ecosystem by traveling responsibly.

FAQs

Find answers to your most pressing questions about Kerala houseboats, including details on cruises, meals, safety, and booking tips.

What is a Kerala houseboat?

A traditional wooden boat converted into a floating hotel, offering a unique experience on the backwaters.

Where do cruises start?

Cruises mainly start from Alleppey, Kumarakom, or Kollam, popular destinations for houseboat adventures.

How long is a cruise?

Cruises range from 4-hour day trips to overnight stays, catering to different preferences.

Are meals included?

Yes, meals are included, featuring a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian Kerala dishes.

Do houseboats have AC and bathrooms?

Most houseboats are equipped with night-only AC and private bathrooms for your comfort.

Are houseboats safe?

Yes, houseboats anchor at night and have staff onboard 24/7 to ensure guest safety.

Can I book for a few hours?

Yes, day cruises are available for those looking for a shorter experience.

Are houseboats family-friendly?

Yes, houseboats are family-friendly, but it’s advisable to check accessibility for elderly guests.

When should I book?

It’s recommended to book 2–4 weeks in advance during peak season, which runs from October to March.

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Traditional Kerala village scene with coconut trees, a canoe on the backwaters, and a local woman weaving coir ropes beside a thatched-roof homestay.

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