The state of Kerala is located in the southern part of India on the Malabar Coast and is popularly known as ‘God’s own Country’. Kerala’s 900km network of interconnected canals, lagoons, rivers and lakes are known as backwaters as these canals run inland from Kerala’s coastline in Kochi to Kollam. Alleppey is known as the main entry point situated between Kochi and Kollam. The city of Alleppey or Allapuzha is known to have the best backwaters in Kerala.
Alleppey’s backwaters have been used for hundreds of years by the local people for transportation, agriculture and fishing. Over the past few years, backwater tourism is one of the key reasons why people from around the world travel to Kerala. A cruise on Alleppey houseboats allows the traveler to explore the charming Keralan Backwaters and experience the village lifestyles while cruising along the backwaters. Houseboats in Kerala were used in transporting fish, rice, vegetables and spices but over the years they were converted into floating hotels or rooms where travelers can enjoy a day or two cruising on the backwaters.
Best time to visit Alleppey
The three main seasons experienced in India are summer, monsoon and winter. Mentioned below is the season-wise breakup:
During summer (April to June): Travelers are recommended not to travel during summers as Alleppey experiences hot and humid climates with temperatures above 37 ° Celsius.
During the monsoon (July to September): Alleppey receives heavy rainfall during the monsoon season. Travelers are recommended to avoid traveling during the rainy season as the rains are often unpredictable and can put a damper on your travel plans.
During winters (October to March): The climate is usually pleasant and the temperature usually ranges from 17-30° Celsius during the winters. This is the perfect time to explore the backwaters by cruising in some of the wonderful houseboats in Alleppey. This is the time when the rates of houseboat cruises will be at its peak.
What do you need to know before embarking on an Alleppey houseboat cruise?
a. Types of Alleppey houseboats available
When you are planning for a vacation in Kerala and want to try out the houseboat cruises, you would first need to narrow down your choices and pick the ideal cruise package option. It also Depending on how much you want to spend, as Alleppey houseboats come at all shapes, sizes, and prices. There are houseboats with one bedroom to up to ten rooms, A/C or non-A/C and some of them also have bathtubs, jacuzzi and so on. You can even share a houseboat with other travelers or you can opt for a private cruise.
b. Houseboat categories
Houseboats in Alleppey come in many categories including budget houseboats, deluxe houseboats, luxury houseboats, premium houseboats and ultra-luxury houseboats. These houseboats offer its guests everything from very basic amenities to luxury amenities. You can choose between private houseboats, shared houseboats and houseboats that can accommodate large groups.
c. Routes taken by houseboats
Kerala’s backwaters are made up of interlocking canals and lagoons. Alleppey and Kumarakom are two of the most popular backwater destinations in Kerala. Swaying coconut palms and picturesque landscapes make these places a must-visit if you are in Kerala.
The houseboat distance from Alleppey to Kumarakom is 32.6 km as these cities lie in two corners of Vembanad Lake. While Kumarakom is more like a laid back village whereas Alleppey is more of a town, they are both starting points of several boat cruises through the backwaters.
Different houseboat cruise operators offer different routes, depending on your budget, duration of the cruise and what you wish to see, you can take your pick. Do all your homework and plan every detail before booking your Alleppey houseboat cruise.
The houseboats cruise through the backwaters during the day from 12 noon to 5 pm and then dock along the side of the backwaters for the night.
A cruise along Alleppey’s houseboats is one of the best experiences you can take away from your Kerala trip. Ride in a spacious and luxurious boathouse through the backwaters of Alleppey or Kumarakom through narrow and winding canals through the lush paddy fields and mangrove forests. Witness the rural village life, farming and fishing while cruising in the backwaters.
d. Houseboat Food
The food served in houseboats are one of the major highlights of backwater cruises and you can also share your food preference like vegetarian and non-vegetarian, at the time of booking. Your trip will begin with a welcome drink and you can opt for whatever you wish to have in advance and enjoy yourself to the fullest.
e. Duration of stay in Alleppey houseboats
You can opt for day cruises, overnight tours, two-night trips in the houseboat. Hence, it will depend upon the duration you have in hand, for this tour.
f. Safety of houseboat cruises
Before embarking on an Alleppey houseboat cruise, it is recommended that you do proper research. It would be better to take guidance from a travel company or best if you secure a booking through them for the ideal Alleppey houseboat journey. Alternatively, if you have made a last-minute plan, then you can take help for your hotel’s travel desk for a recommendation.
g. Houseboats in Alleppey – is it worth it?
Yes! It is worth it! While you are in Kerala, a boathouse cruise is a must-try. However, from personal experience, I feel that a one night cruise is just enough time to chill out and enjoy the mesmerizing views of the backwaters.
A houseboat cruise is one of the most remarkable experiences you can have in Kerala, if planned well in advance. So, if are you planning a tour of Kerala including an Alleppey houseboat cruise, then make sure you do adequate research beforehand before taking the plunge.