What is a Kerala Houseboat?
Kerala's houseboats, known locally as kettuvallam (literally "tied boat"), are converted rice barges that once transported goods through the backwater network. Today, they are floating hotels with bedrooms, bathrooms, a kitchen, and open-air decks. Over 1,000 houseboats operate in the Alleppey backwaters alone, ranging from basic one-bedroom boats to luxury three-bedroom vessels with upper decks and jacuzzis.
Types of Houseboats
Standard (Non-AC)
Basic but clean boats with fan-cooled bedrooms, attached bathrooms, and a covered dining area. Suitable for budget travellers and monsoon season (when AC is unnecessary). Cost: INR 4,000-6,000 per night for a one-bedroom boat in off-season.
Deluxe (AC)
Air-conditioned bedrooms, better furnishings, sometimes with a small upper deck. This is the most popular category and offers good value. Cost: INR 7,000-12,000 per night depending on season and number of bedrooms.
Premium / Luxury
Spacious upper deck with loungers, high-quality interiors, sometimes with a mini-bar and dedicated chef. Some premium boats have glass-floor viewing panels. Cost: INR 14,000-25,000 per night for a one-bedroom. Two and three-bedroom luxury boats can cost INR 30,000-50,000.
Shikara (Day Cruise)
Smaller covered canoes for 2-4 people, ideal for half-day or full-day cruises through narrow canals that large houseboats cannot enter. No overnight stay. Cost: INR 1,500-3,000 for 3-4 hours.
Best Houseboat Routes
Alleppey to Kumarakom (Most Popular)
This is the classic route across Vembanad Lake — India's longest lake at 96km. The journey takes you through wide lake stretches and narrow village canals. Duration: 22-24 hours (noon to noon). Best for first-time visitors.
Alleppey — Kuttanad Circuit
Deeper into the paddy-field regions of Kuttanad, which lies below sea level. More rural, fewer tourist boats, excellent birdwatching. Duration: 22-24 hours. Best for nature enthusiasts.
Kumarakom Backwaters
Starting from Kumarakom, this route explores the eastern side of Vembanad Lake and its channels. The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is nearby. Slightly quieter than Alleppey routes.
What to Expect on Board
Schedule
- 12:00 PM: Board the houseboat at Alleppey jetty. Welcome drink served.
- 12:30 PM: Lunch on board — fresh Kerala fish curry, rice, sambar, vegetables, pickles, papadam.
- 1:00-5:00 PM: Cruise through backwaters. The boat navigates through wide canals and narrow channels. Stops at small villages where you can walk around.
- 5:30 PM: Boat anchors for the night at a designated spot (government-mandated). Tea and snacks served.
- 7:30 PM: Dinner — typically includes grilled fish (karimeen/pearl spot is a local speciality), chicken or vegetarian curry, and dessert.
- 7:00 AM: Morning tea, followed by breakfast (idli, dosa, eggs, toast).
- 9:00-11:30 AM: Final cruise back to the starting jetty.
- 12:00 PM: Disembark.
Crew
Every houseboat has a crew of 3: a pilot (driver), a cook, and a helper. The cook prepares all meals fresh on board. Tipping is customary — INR 500-1,000 total for the crew is appreciated.
Booking Tips
- Book through a verified operator: Avoid touts at the Alleppey jetty who offer last-minute deals on questionable boats. Book through a licensed tour operator like Series Tours for quality-checked vessels.
- Weekday vs weekend: Weekday rates are 15-25% lower. Fewer boats on the water means a more peaceful experience.
- Season matters: December-January prices are 50-80% higher than June-September. October-November offers the best value for good weather.
- Verify amenities: Ask for recent photos. Confirm AC working hours (some boats only run AC at night to save fuel). Check if the upper deck is included.
- Dietary needs: Inform your operator in advance about vegetarian, vegan, or Jain dietary requirements. The cook can accommodate most requests with advance notice.
Important Things to Know
- Houseboats must anchor by 5:30 PM (government regulation for safety). You cannot cruise at night.
- Mobile connectivity is patchy in the deeper backwater areas. Download offline maps and entertainment.
- Carry mosquito repellent — evenings can be buggy near the water.
- Swimming in the backwaters is not recommended due to currents and water quality.
- Alcohol is not included in standard packages but can be brought on board (corkage may apply on premium boats).