Sliding into Serenity — Shikara Rides in Kerala

Vast, wide, serene, inviting you for a lazy ride over the rippling waters — Kerala’s backwaters are iconic. So are the houseboats, travelers use to cruise these expansive waterways, but for those who are unaware, there’s another way to experience the magic — one that’s quieter, closer, and more personal: the shikara ride.

What is a Shikara?

The word “shikara” comes from the Sanskrit language, where śikhara means “peak” or “summit.” Over time, the term came to denote various pointed or elevated structures, like the spire of a temple. In the context of boats, the term evolved to describe the traditional Kashmiri wooden boat with a high, pointed prow and canopy. It has a narrow and elongated shape with a covered top to shield passengers from the sun. The roof is woven with coir or bamboo for a rustic look. Inside, cushioned seats line the sides, offering a cozy and intimate space to relax as you glide past Kerala’s lush, water-laced landscapes.

Unlike the bigger, engine-powered houseboats, the shape of the shikara allows it to be rowed. It can also be equipped with small motors, making the journey much quieter. This silence lets you hear the soft splash of oars, birdsong, and village sounds drifting from the shore. A ride on a shikara is an immersive experience in nature.

Shikara vs Houseboat: Which One Should You Choose?

Houseboats are great for overnight stays and large groups, but they can feel bulky and a bit detached from the surroundings. A shikara, on the other hand, is nimble. It weaves through narrow canals and smaller waterways that houseboats can’t reach. This means closer views of daily life — kids waving from doorsteps, women washing clothes by the banks, fishermen casting nets into the water.

If you choose the Shikara vs Houseboat Kerala experience, the atmosphere will be more peaceful, more engaging, and enveloping. A Shikara Boat Ride in Kerala is not just a ride; it is a window into Kerala’s soul. For couples, photographers, or anyone craving quiet and beauty, a Kerala Backwater Shikara Tour is a better choice. It is always recommended that you opt for a Traditional Shikara Experience to see a different side of the Kerala countryside.

Top destinations for budget-friendly backwater rides in a Shikara

Two of the best places for cultural boat rides in Kerala are Alleppey (Alappuzha) and Kumarakom. The Alleppey Shikara Ride winds through narrow canals flanked by coconut palms and rice fields. You’ll see peaceful villages, traditional homes, and occasionally, even an old temple standing silently on a bank.

On the other side of Lake Vembanad lies Kumarakom, which offers a slightly different vibe — more serene and secluded. The waters here are dotted with birdlife, especially around the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary. It’s a favorite for nature lovers and anyone wanting to escape the crowds, and is therefore, a highlight of a Backwater Cruise Kerala. You can also opt for traditional boat rides through Kerala’s canals.

Budget-Friendly Backwater Rides — Duration and Pricing

Shikara rides in Kerala are typically priced by the hour, making them more budget-friendly when compared to houseboats. On average, you will be required to pay ₹500 to ₹800 per hour, depending on the season and the boat’s size or features. Rides can last from one hour up to half a day, allowing you to tailor the ride according to your plans and pace.

Tips to Make the Most of the Best Shikara Rides

Timing is everything: The Best Time for Shikara Rides in Kerala is sunrise or sunset. Go early in the morning (around 6:30–8:00 AM) for a misty, golden experience — or opt for a sunset ride when the skies turn fiery and reflections shimmer across the water. Enjoy your Alleppey Shikara Ride before heading on to Kumarakom.
Best for small groups: Shikaras seat around 2 to 6 people, making them ideal for couples, families, or solo travelers looking for some quiet. On special request, romantic Shikara boat rides for couples can also be arranged.
What to bring: Carry drinking water, a camera for the scenery and candid moments, and a hat or sunglasses to protect yourself from the tropical sun.

What to Expect during a Traditional Shikara Experience

One of the rewards of a shikara ride itinerary in Alleppey or Kumarakom is the chance to observe life in its natural cycle. As you glide past villages, you’ll see men climbing coconut trees for Todi collection, which is the local liquor, women walking to temples in traditional saris with flowers tucked into their naturally long and black hair, and witness the rhythmic pulse of rural life that hasn’t changed much in decades.

You’ll pass coconut groves, small and colorful temples, and sometimes floating vegetable vendors. A Traditional Shikara Experience opens up Kerala to you, in its most authentic and unfiltered form — an experience you’ll cherish for a lifetime.

If you’re headed to Kerala and want to experience the backwaters in a more soulful, intimate way, skip the noise and book a shikara. It’s not just transportation — it’s time travel on water, and beauty beyond words.