Alappuzha’s 12 Top Tours (With Prices)

Alappuzha, often called the Venice of the East, is legendary for its intricate network of backwaters, canals, and charming villages. Unlike many tourist spots, Alappuzha offers authentic and deeply immersive experiences that showcase Kerala’s laid-back rural life. We especially love Alleppey: Shikara Boat Ride with Village Tour & Canal Cruise because it combines a peaceful boat ride with cultural insights, all at a budget-friendly price of just $20 per person. Whether you prefer a half-day outing or a full-day exploration, these tours promise a genuine taste of Kerala’s tranquil waters and local way of life.

For travelers keen on active engagement, the Kerala Backwater Village Kayaking Tour offers an intimate paddle through narrow canals, with the chance to witness village life up close. Those more interested in comfort and luxury might prefer a houseboat cruise, which we’ll cover later. Whatever your style, Alappuzha’s tours provide a perfect blend of natural beauty, local culture, and relaxation.

1. Alleppey: Shikara Boat Ride with Village Tour & Canal Cruise

Discover Kerala’s backwaters on a serene shikara boat ride that balances nature, culture, and relaxation. This tour offers the chance to glide through lush canals and lagoons, passing by quaint villages where life moves at a gentle pace. The tour includes insights from your experienced crew about local traditions and history. With options for half-day or full-day trips, you can tailor your experience to your schedule and interests. Priced at just $20 per person and highly rated at 4.9/5 from 21 reviews, this is an affordable way to see Alleppey’s natural beauty up close.

What makes this experience stand out is its authenticity—you’ll feel like a local cruising through hidden waterways, away from tourist crowds. It’s ideal for travelers who want an unhurried experience packed with scenic views and culture. The flexibility in itineraries means it’s suitable for both short visits and longer explorations. The bottom line: this tour offers great value for anyone seeking peace and a taste of Kerala’s slow-paced lifestyle.

2. Kerala Backwater Village Kayaking Tour Full Day (Nedumudy)

For those who want an intimate, hands-on experience, the Kerala Backwater Village Kayaking Tour is perfect. Over 5 hours, you paddle through narrow canals, passing shrimp farms and village homes, gaining a rare glimpse into daily life. The tour includes a local seafood lunch, which is a highlight for food lovers. The route takes you through sandbank roads and offers a close-up view of rural Kerala, making it a favorite among independent travelers and active explorers.

Rated perfect 5/5 from 3 reviews, this tour is praised for its authenticity and personalized approach. It’s especially suited for guests who enjoy paddling and cultural discovery without the fuss of large groups. The experience is ideal for travelers who value interactivity and want to truly connect with the landscape. The only potential downside is that kayaking requires a bit of physical effort, so it’s best for those comfortable on the water. Bottom line: a highly rewarding, immersive experience for active travelers.

3. Alappuzha Shikara Backwaters and Village Tour

This Shikara boat tour offers a gentle ride through the backwaters, perfect for travelers who want a relaxing yet authentic Kerala experience. For $68 per group (up to 8 people), it’s a cost-effective choice for families or small groups. The focus is on peaceful cruising through lush greenery, with plenty of photo ops and opportunities to observe local life. The tour includes insights about the culture and history of the area from your crew and offers a mix of scenic beauty and cultural highlights.

This tour ranks highly due to its personalized service and small group size, creating an intimate atmosphere. It’s perfect for slow travelers or those wanting quality time on the water without the rush. The main advantage is the value—a full experience at a reasonable price. The only drawback: it might not include as many longer excursions compared to other options. Bottom line: a comfortable, authentic way to explore Kerala’s backwaters with friends or family.

4. PRIVATE 6 DAYS BEST OF TAMIL NADU TOUR WITH CAR AND DRIVER

Expanding beyond Kerala, this private 6-day tour takes you through Tamil Nadu’s iconic sites, including Kanchipuram’s temples and Madurai’s bustling markets. It seamlessly combines cultural and natural attractions, ending with a relaxing stay in Alleppey’s backwaters. The tour includes guided temple visits, UNESCO sites like Trichy and Tanjore, and cultural experiences like temple ceremonies and rickshaw rides. The driver is experienced, making the journey smooth, and the flexibility allows you to customize your itinerary.

Rated 5/5 from 1 review, it’s an excellent choice for travelers who want a comprehensive, personalized adventure across southern India. The inclusion of relaxing backwater experiences makes it appealing for those wanting a balanced trip. The only consideration might be the long drives, which could be tiring for some. Bottom line: an ideal option for travelers seeking a multi-destination experience with a luxury touch.

5. From Cochin: 5 Day Private Kerala Tour with 3 & 4 Star Hotel

This 5-day private tour from Cochin offers a perfect introduction to Kerala’s diverse landscapes. Highlights include the Eravikulam National Park, home to the Nilgiri Tahr, and a houseboat cruise in Alleppey. It also features visits to the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary and a Tea Museum in Munnar. The tour offers a good balance between nature, wildlife, and culture, with accommodations rated 3-4 stars.

Rated 5/5 from 1 review, it’s a great value for those wanting a comprehensive experience without sacrificing comfort. The inclusion of wildlife safaris, backwater cruises, and culture makes it suitable for a diverse range of interests. The main downside might be the tight schedule for some travelers who prefer more leisure time. Bottom line: an excellent pick for those wanting variety and comfort on a manageable trip.

6. From Cochin: Alleppey Houseboat Day Tour with Lunch

For a full day of relaxation, this houseboat day tour from Cochin is hard to beat. It includes 10 hours on a traditional houseboat, with a delicious onboard lunch. You’ll cruise through picturesque waterways, passing lush greenery and quaint villages. The tour also features a photo stop at Alleppey, giving you a taste of local life and scenic views.

Rated 5/5 from 1 review, this experience is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, day-long escape without overnight commitments. It’s especially good for those with limited time but a desire to immerse in Kerala’s backwaters. The only limitation is that you’ll stay on the boat for the entire day, so if you prefer active sightseeing, other options may be better. Bottom line: a convenient, well-rounded way to experience Kerala’s backwaters.

7. Kochi: Alleppey Backwaters public Boat Tour with Train Ride

This full-day tour combines public transport, a local boat cruise, and a train ride to give you a local flavor of Alleppey. Starting with a train journey from Kochi, you’ll explore local markets, visit an old temple, and cruise the backwaters from an upper deck. The experience includes a Kerala-style lunch at a local eatery, adding an authentic touch.

Rated 5/5, this is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers who want to see Alleppey like a local. The transportation adds a layer of adventure, making it well-suited for independent travelers comfortable with public transport. The main consideration is the long day and the need to be flexible. Bottom line: perfect for adventurous travelers seeking authentic local experiences at a reasonable price.

8. From Cochin: 4-Night/5-Day Kerala Tour

This comprehensive 5-day tour covers Kerala’s top highlights, including Munnar’s tea plantations, Periyar Sanctuary, and Alleppey’s backwaters. It’s ideal for travelers who want an immersive experience that mixes nature, wildlife, and culture. Designed for comfort, accommodations are rated 3-4 stars, and the tour includes local encounters and well-planned logistics.

Rated 4.2/5 from 13 reviews, it offers great value for those seeking a balanced itinerary. The inclusion of backwater cruises, wildlife safaris, and cultural shows makes it a solid choice. The downside is the tight schedule that may not suit travelers wanting more leisurely days. Bottom line: perfect for first-timers wanting a full taste of Kerala.

9. Luxury Backwater Cruise – One-Day Private Tour from Kochi

Experience Kerala’s backwaters in luxury with this private, personalized cruise from Kochi. For about $67 per person, you get a private houseboat, authentic Kerala lunch, and scenic cruising through tranquil canals. The tour emphasizes comfort and privacy, making it ideal for couples or small groups wanting a romantic escape.

Rated 4.3/5 from 3 reviews, the experience shines for its personalized service and scenic setting. It’s best suited for travelers who prefer luxury over crowds and want to relax in style. The main limitation: it’s a shorter trip, so it’s more about quality than quantity. Bottom line: a fantastic choice for those seeking luxury on a day trip.

10. Cochin: 5-Day Munnar, Thekkady, and Alleppey Tour

This 5-day private tour combines mountain scenery, wildlife, and backwater relaxation. It covers Munnar’s tea gardens, Thekkady’s wildlife sanctuary, and Alleppey’s houseboats. The daily itinerary balances nature walks, boat safaris, and cultural shows. The accommodations are rated 3-4 stars and suitable for travelers wanting a comprehensive experience.

Rated 4/5 from 4 reviews, it’s an excellent choice for multi-interest travelers. The inclusion of wildlife and backwater experiences makes it suitable for a diverse group. The main drawback is the packed schedule, which might be tiring for some. Bottom line: good for adventurous travelers wanting variety in a single trip.

11. Exclusive Same Day Kerala Houseboat Cruise Tour in Alleppey

This exclusive day cruise offers about 5 hours on a traditional houseboat. It includes a Kerala-style lunch and stunning views of backwaters. Perfect for travelers who want a short but immersive experience, it’s rated 4/5 and highly valued for its quality and exclusivity.

Ideal for day-trippers or those with limited time, it’s an affordable way to experience houseboat life without an overnight stay. The quiet cruise and delicious onboard meal make it a relaxing escape. The only limitation: it’s a shorter experience, so it suits those wanting a snapshot rather than an in-depth tour. Bottom line: a high-quality, luxury taste of Kerala’s backwaters.

12. Overnight Alleppey Houseboat Cruise Tour

For those wanting a full immersion, this overnight houseboat cruise is the ultimate experience. You’ll cruise through the backwaters overnight, wake to sunrise over the water, and enjoy home-cooked Kerala meals onboard. The experience is highly rated at 1/5 from 1 review, with some feedback suggesting it’s more pricey and less personalized.

This tour is ideal for romantic couples or adventure seekers looking to spend a night floating through Kerala’s most iconic scenery. It offers complete tranquility and a chance to disconnect from the world. The main drawback is that it costs more and may not suit travelers who prefer guided or structured day trips. Bottom line: a luxurious and memorable way to experience Kerala’s backwaters overnight.

How to Choose Your Perfect Tour in Alappuzha

When selecting a tour in Alappuzha, consider your budget, interest level, and physical activity preference. If you’re after a cost-effective introduction, the Alleppey: Shikara Boat Ride or public boat tour with train offer excellent value. For active travelers, the kayaking tour provides an immersive experience. Those seeking luxury or overnight stays should look at the luxury backwater cruise or the overnight houseboat.

Timing also matters—most tours operate year-round, but the dry season from October to March offers the best weather for cruising and outdoor activities. Book early in peak season to avoid disappointment, especially for popular options like houseboats and private tours.

Final Thoughts

Alappuzha’s diverse tour options cater to all types of travelers—whether you want a peaceful boat ride, an active kayaking adventure, or a luxury houseboat stay. For a budget-friendly taste of Kerala, the Shikara boat ride is hard to beat, while the private houseboat tour offers comfort and flexibility.

If your time is limited but you want a full experience, the full-day backwater cruise provides a perfect snapshot. For those craving adventure and authenticity, the kayaking tour delivers a close-up look at village life.

Whatever you choose, Alappuzha’s backwaters promise a relaxing, scenic, and authentic taste of Kerala’s slow-paced charm. Book early, plan accordingly, and enjoy the tranquil waters that make this region so special.