Private Backwater Cruise on a Houseboat and Shikara including Lunch

If you’re dreaming of drifting through lush, tranquil waterways flanked by palm trees, rice paddies, and fishing villages, a private backwater tour in Kerala might just be what you need. This experience combines the charm of a traditional houseboat cruise with the intimacy of a shikara ride, topped off with a hearty local lunch. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews and detailed descriptions give us a clear picture of what to expect, and it certainly sounds like an authentic, scenic adventure worth considering.

What we love about this experience are the stunning waterway views, the personalized nature of a private tour, and the chance to enjoy Kerala’s local life up close. The inclusion of a traditional Kerala lunch along the way is also a big plus. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that neither the houseboat nor the shikara has air-conditioning, so warm weather means you’ll want to dress comfortably and enjoy the breeze. This tour would suit travelers looking for a laid-back, cultural experience in Kerala’s water-rich landscape, especially those who appreciate scenic splendor and authentic moments.

Key Points

• Personalized Private Tour: Enjoy a tailored experience with round-trip transport included.
• Scenic Waterway Journey: Cruise on lakes, canals, and narrow channels lined with jungle, villages, and rice paddies.
• Cultural Insights: Pass fishing villages, churches, and lush landscapes that reveal Kerala’s daily life.
• Authentic Cuisine: Savor a traditional Kerala lunch onboard, with local snacks and beverages.
• Flexible Duration: About 6 to 8 hours, allowing a relaxed pace without feeling rushed.
• Great for Photographers and Nature Lovers: Panoramic views and close encounters with rural life.

Introduction: A Scenic Day on Kerala’s Waterways

Kerala’s backwaters are famous for their peaceful beauty and rich cultural tapestry, making them an ideal setting for a relaxing, scenic cruise. This private backwater experience combines the charm of traditional houseboats with a more nimble and intimate shikara ride, offering a full day of exploration and flavor.

What we find particularly appealing is the flexibility of the tour—it’s private, so you can go at your own pace, and it’s designed to showcase the very best of Kerala’s water-centric lifestyle. You’ll love the chance to see local fishing villages, rice fields, and jungle scenery up close, while enjoying the comfort of a traditional lunch on the boat. One of the standout features, according to reviews, is how smoothly everything is arranged, with many guests praising the punctual pickup and attentive service.

A possible concern is the lack of air-conditioning in the boats, but most travelers find that the breeze and open sides make it a comfortable, even refreshing, experience. If you’re someone who enjoys scenic, cultural adventures and values a personalized, relaxing day out, then this tour could be a perfect fit.

What’s Included and Why It Matters

This tour offers a lot of value for its price point of roughly $254.67 per person, especially considering it covers return transfers, private cruises, lunch, and all taxes and fees. The inclusion of round-trip transport from Kochi, Alleppey, or Kumarakom makes it convenient, removing the hassle of arranging your own logistics.

The cruise itself is split into two major parts: the houseboat journey and the shikara ride. The houseboat takes you across Punnamada Lake—famous for the Nehru Trophy boat race—providing panoramic views and a taste of traditional Kerala hospitality with a delicious, freshly cooked lunch served onboard. From there, you transfer to a shikara, a narrow, motorized canoe that allows you to navigate shallow channels and narrow waterways, giving you closer access to rural life.

All this is designed to showcase the natural beauty and local culture, making it a well-rounded experience suitable for travelers wanting a deeper connection with Kerala’s backwaters.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Alleppey Backwaters
The journey begins with a morning pickup—many guests note the punctuality and helpfulness of the driver. Once you arrive at Alleppey, you’ll board your houseboat, which is described as a comfortable vessel with open sides and cushioned seats, perfect for enjoying the breeze. Guests have reported feeling pampered with a welcome drink as the boat starts gliding across Punnamada Lake, the birthplace of the famous boat race.

You’ll cruise for about four hours, passing through scenic villages and lush landscapes. The views of floating rice paddies, fishing boats, and rural churches are highlights, offering a glimpse into everyday life in Kerala. The boat stops for a traditional Kerala lunch, which, based on reviews, is fresh, flavorful, and authentically prepared by the chef onboard.

Post-Lunch: Transition to the Shikara
After lunch, you’ll transfer to a shikara, which is described as a traditional, motorized canoe with a roof but open sides—ideal for close-up views. This smaller vessel is praised for being easy to navigate through shallow channels, making it possible to get into narrow waterways that larger boats can’t reach.

The shikara ride offers a more intimate experience, with close encounters of rural fishing villages, jungle scenery, and coconut groves. Reviewers mention the relaxed, unhurried pace, and the chance to spot local life from a different perspective. The ride lasts about an hour, during which travelers can enjoy Kerala-inspired snacks with coffee or tea, adding a culinary touch to the journey.

End of Tour: Return to the Waterfront
The tour concludes back in Alleppey, with transport arranged to drop you back at your hotel. Travelers often find this full-day experience to be a perfect mix of scenic beauty, cultural exposure, and relaxation.

The Experience Through the Eyes of Reviewers

One guest, Vanessa, shared that “everything was nicely arranged,” highlighting punctual pickup and helpful drivers—crucial factors that make or break a full-day tour. She appreciated the peaceful atmosphere onboard the houseboat and the freshly cooked lunch by the onboard chef, describing the day as “perfect and relaxing.”

Another reviewer pointed out how the views of village life and jungle scenery made the ride special. They mentioned that the shikara was a “miniature houseboat,” offering a chance to get into narrower channels and observe local fishing activities up close. Such comments underscore how this experience provides a genuine look at Kerala’s rural lifestyle, often missed by larger, more touristy boats.

However, some travelers note that neither vessel has air-conditioning, so comfort depends on the weather. Most agree that the breeze and open sides compensate well, making it a pleasant experience in most conditions.

Transport and Practicalities

Starting at 9:00 am, the tour is well-timed for a full day of adventure. The return transfers are included, which is a huge perk, especially if you’re staying in Kochi or nearby. The tour is private, so only your group will participate, allowing for a more personalized experience.

The boats are open-sided, with cushioned seating, and designed for comfort in warm weather. It’s worth wearing lightweight clothing and bringing sun protection. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with no physical exertion required, although those sensitive to heat should be prepared.

Pricing and Value Analysis

At approximately $254.67, including transportation, lunch, and all fees, this tour offers good value, particularly for those seeking a comprehensive, private experience. Compared to group tours, a private cruise offers flexibility, less crowding, and a more personalized vibe, which many travelers value highly.

The inclusion of both a houseboat and shikara ride, along with authentic regional cuisine, makes it a full-day, immersive experience. The cost reflects the private nature and the scenic, cultural highlights—whether you’re a keen photographer or simply want a peaceful day on Kerala’s waterways, this tour delivers.

Who Will Love This Experience?

Travelers craving a relaxed, scenic escape from busy city life will find this tour perfect. It’s ideal for those interested in local culture, rural scenery, and culinary delights. It also suits couples, small groups, or families looking for an authentic Kerala experience with flexible timing.

If you’re someone who appreciates personalized service and beautiful views without the hustle and bustle of crowded boats, this tour offers a peaceful, immersive way to connect with Kerala’s backwaters.

This private backwater cruise on a houseboat and shikara provides a well-rounded, authentic glimpse into Kerala’s water-based lifestyle. The combination of panoramic lake views, close-up encounters with fishing villages and jungle scenery, and a traditional Kerala lunch makes it a memorable outing. While comfort in warm weather depends on the breeze, most find the experience relaxing and enriching.

The tour’s private nature, punctual transfers, and comprehensive itinerary make it a strong choice for those wanting a personalized, scenic day in Kerala. It balances scenic beauty with cultural insights, providing a peaceful retreat into one of India’s most beautiful regions.

If you’re looking for a day filled with stunning views, cultural authenticity, and tranquil moments, this cruise offers excellent value and a genuine taste of Kerala’s legendary backwaters.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes return transfers from Kochi, Alleppey, or Kumarakom, a cruise on a private houseboat, a shikara ride, a traditional Kerala lunch, and all taxes and fees.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 6 to 8 hours, offering a relaxed pace with plenty of time to enjoy each part of the journey.

Are there any physical requirements?
The tour is suitable for most travelers as it involves sitting and cruising. There’s no strenuous activity, but be prepared for warm weather and the lack of air-conditioning onboard.

What should I wear?
Lightweight, comfortable clothing, sun protection, and perhaps a hat or sunglasses are recommended. Bring along a camera for the stunning scenery.

Does the tour operate in all weather conditions?
Most travelers find the breeze and open design of the boats comfortable, but in very hot or rainy weather, comfort might decrease. It’s best to check the forecast before booking.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most children can enjoy the calm, scenic cruise, but parents should consider the open sides of the boats and ensure safety precautions.

Can I customize the experience?
Since it’s a private tour, you may have some flexibility in timings and stops, but the core itinerary is fixed as described.

This tour offers a peaceful, scenic, and culturally rich way to experience Kerala’s backwaters. Perfect for those who value authenticity, comfort, and stunning vistas.