The backwaters of Alleppey, often described as the ‘Venice of the East,’ offer one of the most enchanting experiences in all of Kerala. Gently drifting along coconut-fringed canals, past lush paddy fields and traditional fishing villages, is a serene escape from the bustle of everyday life. Whether you’re seeking a luxurious romantic getaway, a family bonding adventure, or an immersive dive into Kerala’s unique culture, there’s a perfect houseboat trip waiting for you.
Alleppey houseboat trips are more than just a journey-they are a chance to live a slower, more peaceful life, if only for a day or two. These floating homes bring together tradition and comfort, with packages tailored to fit every type of traveller. In this guide, we highlight 12 of the best-rated houseboat tours that promise unforgettable moments on Kerala’s legendary backwaters.
1. Pournami Houseboats
Pournami Houseboats has been a staple in Alleppey since 2007, offering premium houseboat experiences that blend tradition with modern luxury. Their boats cruise the serene Punnamada Lake and the enchanting Alleppey backwaters, allowing guests to soak in the natural beauty while enjoying fine hospitality. What sets them apart is their dedication to detail-evident in everything from the warm woodwork on board to the delicious home-cooked meals. Guests consistently praise the crew’s attentiveness and the tranquil atmosphere that makes relaxation inevitable.
What is included in the tour
- Private AC/non-AC houseboats
- All meals (welcome drink, lunch, tea/snacks, dinner, breakfast)
- Experienced crew with a personal cook and navigator
- Scenic cruise through Vembanad and Punnamada lakes
Perfect for:
Couples, families, nature lovers
How expensive is it
Prices start from ₹8,000 per night for a deluxe boat and ₹12,000+ for premium options
2. Why Not Houseboat
With a name as playful as the experience it offers, Why Not Houseboat is ideal for those looking to unwind without overthinking. These boats are stylishly built and anchored near major Alleppey attractions. Their split-level boats come with balconies and terraces that offer sweeping views of the lake. You’ll find yourself waking up to the sound of birds and the gentle lapping of water-a luxury in itself. Their dedication to eco-tourism and personalisation gives this tour a distinct edge.
What is included in the tour
- Lake-view rooms with modern furnishings
- Authentic Kerala meals served on deck
- Access to a shared panoramic terrace
- Optional add-ons like canoe rides and birdwatching tours
Perfect for:
Couples, young travellers, photographers
How expensive is it
Approx. ₹9,000 – ₹13,000 per night, depending on the season and boat type
3. Harmony Houseboats
Harmony Houseboats lives up to its name by offering peaceful journeys through quiet backwaters with well-equipped, beautifully designed interiors. Rated as a 4-star experience, the houseboats have air-conditioned rooms, wooden décor, and thoughtful layouts that prioritise comfort. Their friendly staff go above and beyond, and guests love their attention to detail-especially the traditional banana leaf meals and sunset stopovers.
What is included in the tour
- 1-3 bedroom houseboats with ensuite bathrooms
- All meals included (veg/non-veg options)
- Welcome drink, sunset snacks, and guided commentary
- Sunset anchor for night photography
Perfect for:
Families, comfort seekers, small groups
How expensive is it
From ₹7,500 for standard and up to ₹14,000 for deluxe options
4. Vaishnav Tours
Vaishnav Tours offers a boutique backwater experience designed for culturally curious travellers. These houseboats are not just for leisure-they include opportunities to explore village life, local traditions, and even participate in cooking with the onboard chef. Their backwater routes tend to avoid crowded areas, providing a more offbeat and authentic feel to the cruise.
What is included in the tour
- Private cruise with guide and chef
- Meals with optional cooking class
- Fishing and canoeing activities
- Routes through less-travelled canals
Perfect for:
Cultural explorers, solo travellers, small families
How expensive is it
Prices range between ₹6,000 – ₹11,000 per night
5. Kalappura Houseboats & Tours
Kalappura has become one of Alleppey’s top-rated houseboat providers thanks to its commitment to clean, eco-conscious, and interactive experiences. Their boats are modern but rooted in tradition, and the team offers more than just houseboat stays-including kayaking and cycling excursions to nearby villages.
What is included in the tour
- Premium houseboat with all meals
- Optional guided kayaking or village walk
- AC and non-AC options
- Pick-up and drop-off in Alleppey town
Perfect for:
Adventure seekers, eco-tourists, group trips
How expensive is it
From ₹7,000 for a basic boat; premium packages go up to ₹13,000
6. Sterling Houseboats Lake Palace
Sterling Houseboats brings the reputation of a luxury hospitality chain to Alleppey’s waters. Their houseboats are fitted with elegant interiors, plush bedding, and even onboard entertainment. This is ideal for those who want high-end comfort with uninterrupted views of Kerala’s scenic beauty.
What is included in the tour
- Premium houseboat accommodation with ensuite bathrooms
- Gourmet Kerala meals
- Entertainment options onboard
- Personal butler service
Perfect for:
Honeymooners, luxury travellers, couples
How expensive is it
Expect to pay ₹20,000 to ₹30,000 per night for luxury packages
7. Kerala Boathouse
A reliable, well-reviewed operator offering extensive options for various budgets, Kerala Boathouse is a favourite for tourists seeking flexibility. With everything from 1-bedroom romantic setups to 5-bedroom group boats, this operator is a go-to for families and large travel parties.
What is included in the tour
- Variety of houseboats (1-5 bedrooms)
- Customisable meal plans
- Fishing rods and village stopovers
- Professional staff and safety protocols
Perfect for:
Groups, families, budget-conscious travellers
How expensive is it
Starting from ₹6,000 per night; premium packages up to ₹14,000
8. Giya Houseboats
Also known as Royal Houseboats, Giya offers a solid mid-range option with fantastic hospitality. Their boats are clean, beautifully maintained, and fitted with a sun terrace and restaurant space. It’s a peaceful experience with fewer distractions, ideal for those seeking solitude or a relaxing couple’s escape.
What is included in the tour
- 3-star houseboat accommodation
- Onboard restaurant and room service
- Quiet routes through Alleppey canals
- Free Wi-Fi and AC rooms
Perfect for:
Solo travellers, couples, relaxation seekers
How expensive is it
Rates begin at ₹8,000 and can go up to ₹15,000
9. Honeymoon Houseboat
This operator curates romantic packages with everything from floral bed arrangements to candlelit dinners on the water. The crew specialises in making honeymooners feel like royalty, often surprising guests with thoughtful touches like music, private sunset views, and custom desserts.
What is included in the tour
- Honeymoon-themed decor and meals
- Private cruise route with secluded anchor
- Flower arrangements and cake
- Candlelight dinner and optional photographer
Perfect for:
Honeymooners, anniversary trips
How expensive is it
Packages range from ₹10,000 – ₹18,000 per night
10. Lakenest Day Cruise
Don’t have time to stay overnight? Lakenest offers day cruises that deliver all the charm of the Alleppey backwaters in a single afternoon. Ideal for short itineraries or day-trippers, their boats serve Kerala-style meals while guests relax and watch village life glide by.
What is included in the tour
- 4-6 hour day cruise
- Traditional lunch on board
- Experienced crew and guide
- Stops at scenic viewpoints
Perfect for:
Day visitors, short stays, travel photographers
How expensive is it
Approximately ₹4,000 – ₹6,000 depending on group size
11. Kera Houseboats Alleppey
A lesser-known but highly praised option, Kera Houseboats provides a charming local experience. Guests appreciate the peacefulness of the routes taken and the tasteful simplicity of the boats, which focus on authenticity over extravagance.
What is included in the tour
- Traditional houseboat design with modern comfort
- Fresh seafood and vegetarian meals
- Air-conditioned cabins
- On-call staff for personalisation
Perfect for:
Traditionalists, couples, cultural travellers
How expensive is it
From ₹7,500 for standard to ₹13,000 for deluxe
12. Cosy Premium Houseboats
Cosy Houseboats offers a variety of boats ranging from 1 to 11 bedrooms, making it one of the most scalable options for group travellers. They’re known for their panoramic windows, impeccable cleanliness, and consistent service across all categories.
What is included in the tour
- Premium interiors and panoramic windows
- Full meal plan with seafood and continental options
- Group discounts for 5+ people
- Guide and optional add-ons
Perfect for:
Corporate groups, reunions, large families
How expensive is it
₹8,000 – ₹25,000 depending on boat size
Head out on the backwaters with Find It Better
From luxurious escapes to cultural deep dives, these Alleppey houseboat trips showcase the very best of Kerala’s famed waterways. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family holiday, or a solo retreat, there’s a houseboat tour here to match your mood, budget, and dreams.
Experience Alleppey not just as a destination, but as a drifting journey through time, tradition, and tranquillity. Book your perfect cruise and let Kerala’s backwaters cast their gentle spell.
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