A night on a Kerala houseboat, drifting past coconut palms, paddy fields and village life, is one of India's signature travel experiences. Known locally as kettuvallams, these converted rice barges now come with bedrooms, sun decks and on-board chefs. This guide helps you choose the right houseboat and get the most out of your cruise.
What Is a Kerala Houseboat?
Traditional kettuvallams were used to carry rice and spices along Kerala's backwaters. Today they are crafted from wood and coir with thatched roofs, and fitted with bedrooms, bathrooms, a lounge and a kitchen. A crew of usually three – captain, cook and helper – looks after you.
Alleppey vs Kumarakom
Alleppey (Alappuzha)
- The largest houseboat hub with hundreds of boats.
- Routes through Punnamada Lake, Kuttanad's paddy fields and narrow canals.
- More choice and competitive prices.
- Can feel busy in peak season.
Kumarakom
- On the eastern shore of Vembanad Lake.
- Calmer, with luxury resorts and a bird sanctuary.
- Fewer boats, more exclusive feel, generally higher prices.
Choose Alleppey for variety and value; choose Kumarakom for a quieter, more upscale experience.
Overnight Stay vs Day Cruise
- Overnight (most popular): check in around noon, cruise through the afternoon, anchor by evening, and check out after breakfast the next morning. Includes lunch, evening snacks, dinner and breakfast.
- Day cruise: a few hours on the water with lunch – good if you are short on time.
- Shikara rides: small canopied boats that can enter narrow canals; great for one or two hours.
Types of Houseboats
- Deluxe: basic air-conditioned bedrooms (AC often only at night).
- Premium: better interiors, AC throughout the cruise, upper deck.
- Luxury: glass-walled lounges, larger rooms, premium amenities.
- Shared houseboats: budget option with several groups on one boat.
- Private: the entire boat for your group – best for families and couples.
Boats range from one to several bedrooms.
Meals on Board
The cook prepares fresh Kerala meals – fish curry, karimeen (pearl spot) fry, appam, avial, thoran and rice. Vegetarian and Jain meals can be arranged on request. You can often stop to buy fresh fish or prawns for the chef to cook.
Typical Overnight Schedule
- 12:00 noon: check-in, welcome drink.
- 1:00 pm: lunch while cruising.
- Afternoon: cruise through lakes and canals; village stops.
- 5:30 pm: tea and snacks; boat anchors for the night due to regulations.
- Evening: relax, short village walk.
- 8:00 pm: dinner.
- Next morning: breakfast and check-out around 9:00 am.
Best Time to Book
- October to February: pleasant weather; peak season, book early.
- March to May: hot and humid, but good discounts.
- June to September: monsoon – lush, romantic and quiet; some days may be rainy.
Prices rise sharply around Christmas and New Year.
How to Choose a Good Houseboat
- Check that the boat is licensed and has safety equipment.
- Ask whether AC runs throughout or only at night.
- Confirm cruise route and timings in writing.
- See recent photos of the actual boat, not just stock images.
- Check meal inclusions and dietary options.
Safety Tips
- Wear a life jacket if you cannot swim.
- Keep children supervised on deck.
- Avoid leaning over the edge.
- Use mosquito repellent at night.
Combining with a Kerala Tour
A houseboat night fits well at the end of a Munnar–Thekkady itinerary, before returning to Kochi. Many travellers do 2 nights Munnar, 1 night Thekkady and 1 night houseboat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Alleppey or Kumarakom better for a houseboat?
Alleppey offers more choice and value; Kumarakom is calmer and more upscale.
Do houseboats cruise at night?
No. Regulations require houseboats to anchor in the evening, usually around 5:30 pm, until morning.
Are meals included on a Kerala houseboat?
Overnight cruises typically include lunch, evening snacks, dinner and breakfast.
What is the best time for a Kerala houseboat?
October to February for pleasant weather; monsoon offers quiet, lush scenery and lower prices.
Is AC available all the time?
On deluxe boats AC is often limited to night hours. Premium and luxury boats usually offer AC throughout.
Plan Your Trip with On Travel
Our Kerala packages include carefully checked houseboats in Alleppey and Kumarakom, combined with Munnar, Thekkady and beaches.
- Phone / WhatsApp: +91 9220564155
- Email: info@ontravel.in
Plan Your Trip with On Travel
Ready to go? These itineraries cover the places in this guide and can be customised to your dates and budget:
- Kerala Escape with Alleppey Houseboat – 4 Nights / 5 Days
- Blooming Kerala – Munnar & Alleppey, 3 Nights / 4 Days
- Taj Kumarakom Backwater Retreat – 2 Nights / 3 Days
- Serene Kerala – Munnar & Alleppey, 4 Nights / 5 Days
Browse all Kerala tour packages.
Related reading: Vagamon Travel Guide · Wayanad Travel Guide · Kochi (Cochin) Travel Guide
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