Alleppey Backwaters

Alappuzha · Kerala

The 'Venice of the East' — a dreamy labyrinth of palm-fringed canals and lagoons best explored by traditional houseboat.

Timings

Houseboat cruises usually noon to next-day morning

Entry

Houseboat & shikara packages (varies widely)

Best time

November–February

Time needed

A day / overnight houseboat

The Kerala backwaters are one of India's most magical landscapes — a serene, interconnected network of lakes, canals and rivers fringed by swaying coconut palms and emerald paddy fields. Alappuzha (Alleppey) is the gateway, and the classic way to experience them is aboard a kettuvallam, a traditional rice-barge converted into a houseboat.

Drifting slowly through the waterways, watching village life unfold on the banks, feasting on fresh Keralan seafood and mooring under the stars is one of the most relaxing experiences in the country. Smaller shikara canoe trips reach the narrower, quieter canals.

Don't miss

›An overnight houseboat cruise through the canals.
›A shikara ride into the narrow village waterways.
›Fresh Keralan cuisine cooked on board.

Good to know

Book a reputable, well-maintained houseboat. Overnight cruises are the classic experience. The Nehru Trophy snake-boat race (usually August) is a spectacular time to visit.