Dawn melodies
Discover at Dawn Dawn strums her own melody at the Punnamada Lake in Alleppey. The
Alleppey, often called the “Venice of the East,” is a picturesque town in Kerala much loved by travelers for its tranquil backwaters, lush paddy fields, and interconnected canals. The best way to experience Alleppey’s breathtaking beauty is by a houseboat, which glides through its serene waterways, offering panoramic views of coconut groves, traditional villages, and vibrant birdlife. Unlike road travel, a houseboat cruise allows visitors to immerse themselves in the region’s slow-paced charm, witness local life up close, and enjoy authentic Kerala cuisine onboard, providing an unforgettable and intimate connection with Alleppey’s natural and cultural splendor.
Kerala’s houseboats, locally known as “Kettuvallams,” have a rich history dating back centuries when they were traditionally used for transporting rice, spices, and other goods across the backwaters. These boats used coir ropes to tie wooden planks together without nails, showcasing the state’s ancient boat-building craftsmanship.
With the advent of modern transportation, Kettuvallams were no longer used for trade but were revived in the late 20th century as one of the many tourism promotion initiatives of the Kerala Tourism Board. Transformed into luxurious floating homes with bedrooms, kitchens, and lounges, houseboats now offer travelers a serene way to explore the scenic backwaters, blending their historical charm with modern facilities to make the trip worthwhile for every traveler.
A houseboat ride in Alleppey (Alappuzha) takes you through the breathtaking backwaters of Kerala, covering serene canals, lakes, rivers, and charming villages. The places covered depend on the duration and route of your houseboat package. Here are some key destinations we recommend:
Punnamada Lake (Starting Point)
Vembanad Lake
Kumarakom
Kuttanad (“The Rice Bowl of Kerala”)
Champakulam
Nedumudy
Karumadi
Pathiramanal Island
Thottappally
Marari Beach (Optional)
Many houseboat operators allow customization, so you can choose a route that best fits your interest, whether birdwatching, village life, cultural sites, or simply enjoying the tranquil backwaters.
Types of houseboats:
Deluxe Houseboat: A Deluxe Houseboat is a budget-friendly option. It features AC bedrooms with attached bathrooms, a cozy living area, a well-equipped kitchen, and viewing decks to soak in the scenic water views. Prices may vary between INR 10,000 to INR 60,000 depending on the number of rooms passengers choose.
Premium Houseboat: A level above the Deluxe Houseboat, a Premium Houseboat comes with elegant wooden ceilings, handcrafted décor, full-time air conditioning in the bedrooms, and spacious living areas, providing the perfect mix of comfort and authenticity. Prices start from INR 15,000 and can go up to INR 75,000 depending on the type and number of rooms chosen.
Luxury Houseboat: The ultimate in exclusivity and sophistication, a Luxury Houseboat offers the ultimate backwater experience with five-star interiors, glass-walled AC cabins, elegant dining spaces, and top-notch service that leaves little for complaint. The price may go up to INR 1,20,000 per night depending on the amenities chosen. A Luxury Houseboat is perfect for those seeking a lavish and memorable getaway.
Houseboat Travel Cost
Travel operators in Alleppey offer a variety of houseboat packages tailored to different preferences and budgets. The cost of a backwater cruise in Alleppey varies based on factors like the type of boat, amenities, houseboat route, duration, and season.
Below is an updated Alleppey houseboat rates list for 2025 to help you compare options.
Deluxe Houseboat Alleppey Rates
Premium Alleppey Houseboat Rates
Luxury Houseboat Alleppey Rates
Alleppey Houseboat Rates Chart for One Day Cruise 2025 ( 11 AM to 5 PM )
Inclusions:
Additional Information:
Air Conditioning:
Children: Children below 5 years of age stay complimentary.
Check-in/Check-out: Check-in at 12:00 PM and check-out at 9:00 AM.
Pick & Drop: Pick & Drop facilities are available at an additional cost.
Cruising Time: Houseboats anchor from 5: 30 PM to 7:00 AM and are parked by the lake shore for the night, keeping in mind local regulations, safety concerns, environmental protection, and respect for local communities.
Extra Person Charges:
Food Options
Standard Food Menu
Whether it’s breakfast, lunch, or dinner, expect to enjoy delicacies like appam, rice, sambar, fish curry, vegetable thoran, and local desserts.
Dietary Options
For guests with specific dietary requirements, available options include:
Fresh Seafood Experience
One of the delights of a Kerala houseboat cruise is the opportunity to sample fresh seafood. Guests can buy prawns, crabs, or other fresh fish directly from local fishermen or lakeside shops, and they will be cooked by the chef on the boat in any style that the guest wants.
On-Request
For an extra payment, the houseboat staff will arrange extras such as a cake for a birthday party, or make arrangements for a candlelight dinner. These customizations can be arranged with advance notice to make your houseboat sailing experience more memorable.
Menu choices per category
The food menu may slightly vary depending on the houseboat category you choose—Deluxe, Premium, or Luxury. While the core menu remains similar, luxury houseboats often offer more elaborate dishes and additional course options to enhance the culinary experience.
Types of packages:
Additional Information:
Please note that the above rates are subject to change based on government taxes, seasonal demand, and availability. It is advisable to contact houseboat operators directly for the most current pricing and to inquire about any ongoing promotions or discounts.
A houseboat in Alleppey awaits the graciousness of your presence. Book one to have an experience that you’ll remember for a lifetime.
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