Cochin : Alleppey/Alappuzha Backwater Canoe (Shikara) Cruise

Imagine floating gently through tranquil waters, passing lush paddy fields, swaying coconut palms, and lively villages where daily life unfolds at a relaxed pace. That’s exactly what this Alleppey backwater canoe cruise promises—a peaceful, authentic slice of Kerala. Although we haven’t done this exact tour ourselves, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a compelling picture of what you can expect.

Three things we particularly like about this experience are its personalized nature, the beautiful scenery, and the insight into local village life. The small motorized canoe, or “Shikara,” offers a cozy way to explore the waterways without the crowds often associated with larger boat tours. One thing to keep in mind is the absence of on-board toilets, which might be a consideration for longer trips.

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a serene, scenic escape with a touch of culture. It’s perfect if you want a manageable, well-priced experience that combines comfort with authentic sights. If you’re after a more lively or luxury cruise, this may not be your best fit—but for those craving genuine backwater charm, it delivers.

Key Points

• Authentic experience with a private, small motorized canoe (Shikara)
• Beautiful scenery of paddy fields, coconut palms, and villages
• Insight into local life through views of villagers’ daily routines
• Comfortable transport from Cochin with air-conditioned vehicle
• Cost-effective at $65 per person, offering good value
• Flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours ahead

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Backwater Experience in Alleppey

Alleppey, often called the “Venice of the East,” has long drawn travelers eager to see its intricate network of lakes, rivers, and estuaries. It’s a place where nature and human life intertwine seamlessly, and exploring it by boat gives you a view into Kerala’s quieter, more traditional side.

This particular day cruise runs about 3 hours, beginning with a convenient pickup from Cochin Port or your hotel. The transfer to Alleppey takes roughly 1.5 hours, giving you a chance to relax and enjoy the scenery en route. Once there, you’ll board a small, motorized Shikara, which is perfect for navigating the narrower backwaters and smaller channels that larger boats can’t access.

The Itinerary in Detail

Your day starts around 9:00 am with pickup from your hotel or the port. The driver, often praised for punctuality and helpfulness, will take you directly to Alleppey, where you’ll meet your boat around 10:30 am. The cruise itself lasts roughly 3 hours, concluding around 1:30 pm, with a return to Cochin by mid-afternoon.

What makes this cruise stand out? It’s the intimacy and the pace—slow enough to really soak in the lush surroundings. Travellers have enjoyed viewing acres of verdant paddy fields and tall coconut palms swaying in the breeze. The boat glides gently through the waters, giving ample opportunity to observe village life—children playing, women washing clothes by the river, fishermen casting their nets.

The Scenic Highlights

The backwaters are the star of this experience. We loved the way the water reflects the sky, and how the boat quietly slips past small huts and vibrant village scenes. Many reviews mention how the views of local daily life are a highlight, offering a glimpse into a slower, less commercialized way of living.

The scenery isn’t just beautiful; it’s authentic. You’ll see villagers tending to their fields, women washing clothes in the water, and children playing along the banks. It’s a peaceful, almost meditative environment, especially when you’re on a small boat away from larger tour groups.

The Guides and Crew

While the cruise itself is mainly about sightseeing, the reviews highlight the friendly and helpful crew, especially the boatman. Some travelers added a guide for extra insights, which is at an extra cost, but many found the simple pleasure of just watching the scenery enough. One reviewer mentioned that the guide gave substantial information and was polite, adding value to their trip.

The driver from Cochin is consistently praised for being punctual and courteous, making the entire experience stress-free from start to finish. The vehicle used to transfer you is air-conditioned, which is a plus considering the sometimes warm Kerala climate.

More Great Tours Nearby

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $65 per person, this tour offers good value. The price includes pick-up and drop-off at Cochin Port or your hotel, an air-conditioned transfer, and a 3-hour backwater cruise on a motorized canoe. All taxes are covered, simplifying the booking process.

However, expenses of personal nature are not included—like snacks, drinks, or tips. Interestingly, some reviews mention bringing their own water and snacks, since there are no facilities on the boat, and a 6-hour trip without a break might be long for some.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• No toilets on the boat: Plan accordingly with water and snacks.
• Optional guide: You can pay extra if you want detailed insights into the scenery and local lifestyle.
• Comfortable clothing: Light, breathable clothes are best, with sun protection.
• Arrive early: The driver will meet you at the port with a placard, so be on time.
• Tip the crew: They work hard and appreciate small gestures of thanks.
• Not suitable for children under 6 or wheelchair users: Keep this in mind when booking.

Authenticity and Value

What makes this tour stand apart is its focus on authentic, uncommercialized scenes. Unlike larger houseboat tours, the Shikara cruise feels more personal and less hurried. It offers a relaxed pace and intimate views that catch the true essence of Kerala’s backwaters.

At just $65, this experience provides a rich glimpse into local life and scenery without breaking the bank. The small boat size allows access to narrower channels, giving you a more immersive experience. Plus, the reviews frequently mention the friendly staff and smooth logistics, which add to the overall value.

Additional Considerations

Some travelers noted that longer trips might be tiring without on-board facilities. Also, since the boat operates mainly as a sightseeing vessel with no guide included, those seeking deeper historical or cultural context may want to hire an additional guide.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience is perfect if you’re after a peaceful, scenic day that showcases Kerala’s natural beauty and local way of life. It’s especially suited for quiet travelers who enjoy observing everyday scenes and prefer a small, intimate boat ride over larger, more commercial options.

Those who like flexible, affordable experiences with the option to add extra insights will also find this tour appealing. However, it’s less ideal if you require luxury amenities or accessible facilities.

The Sum Up

This Alleppey backwater canoe cruise offers a genuine taste of Kerala’s rural charm. It’s a well-priced, intimate, and scenic experience that highlights the quiet beauty of the backwaters and the simplicity of village life. The friendly crew, flexible booking, and authentic scenery make it a worthwhile addition to any Kerala itinerary.

Travelers looking for a relaxing, off-the-beaten-path adventure will appreciate the peaceful pace and natural vistas. It’s an excellent choice for those who value connection with local culture and enjoy gentle, scenic outings.

If you’re after a cost-effective, authentic backwater experience in Kerala, this tour won’t disappoint.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts around 3 hours, providing enough time to enjoy the scenery and local village views without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
Your fare covers pickup and drop-off at Cochin Port or your hotel, an air-conditioned transfer, and the 3-hour cruise on a motorized canoe. All taxes are included.

Can I hire a guide during the cruise?
Guides are optional and available at an extra cost. Many travelers enjoy just watching and soaking in the surroundings without a guide, but extra insights can be added if desired.

Are there any facilities on the boat?
No, there are no toilets on the canoe, so plan accordingly, especially for longer trips. Bring water and snacks if needed.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 6 years old or for wheelchair users, as the boat and activity are designed for a more mobile, adult audience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, lightweight clothing is best. Don’t forget sun protection like hats and sunscreen, especially if you’re visiting during warmer months.

How do I know where to meet my driver?
Your driver will meet you at the Cochin Port with a placard bearing your name, making it easy to find your transfer.

This backwater canoe cruise offers a relaxed, genuine look at Kerala’s rural landscape that’s hard to match. It’s an affordable, intimate experience perfect for travelers who want to see the real Kerala away from crowds, and it provides a wonderful chance to slow down and enjoy nature’s quiet beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: