KOCHI
Ranked by traveller popularity
The 10 most popular backwater cruises in Kochi and across coastal Kerala. Here's what they actually deliver, who runs them, and what they cost.
Motorless backwater boat cruise from Fort Kochi with village coir craft and banana-leaf vegetarian lunch.
“Fantastic relaxing tour of the backwaters. we saw a few birds on the cruise, before getting to the village where we saw many ways in which coconut leaves and fibre are traditionally used. The lunch was delicious and generous too.”
Calm Vaikom backwaters by non-motorized punt boat from Kochi, with banana-leaf vegetarian lunch, craft stops, canoe ride, and tea.
“very good just as it says the agent explained everything her name was Mira was extremely helpful enjoyed all”
Half-day Kerala backwaters by non-motor boat from Fort Cochin, with village canals, vegetarian banana-leaf lunch, and round-trip transfers.
“It was a nice experience. Well organised and relaxing. The guides were pleasant and the meal was different but nice - a chance to savour some of the culture.”
Non-motorized backwater cruise from Kochi with village walks, spice plants, coir rope and coconut leaf weaving, plus included veg lunch.
“We were picked up from our hotel on time and we drove about an hour to a village community. We were given Tea and a rest break before heading onto our first boat. We had a calm and beautiful boat ride through the waters for a few hours Read more”
Motorized shikara cruise through Alleppey backwaters from Kannitta Jetty, flexible 1–8 hours, narrow canals and temple views.
“Wonderful and relaxing 2 hour Shikara boat cruise through the Alleppey Backwaters. We were able to experience real village life with families fishing and farming rice paddies. Highly recommended to take shikara instead of Houseboat to experience the narrow canals and backwaters of Alleppey.”
Private Shikara canoe cruise from Cochin to Alleppey backwaters for views of paddy fields, coconut palms, and village life.
“Really enjoyable day. Both driver and shikira driver were lovely. Would def recommend to anyone wanting to see the allepy backwaters.”
Private Kerala backwaters houseboat day from Kochi to Alleppey/Kumarakom with tender coconut, lunch, tea/coffee, pickup, and canal views.
“We came to Kerala for a 3 days short trip and went for a backwater cruiser in a private boat. It was very relaxing and enjoyed the Kerala food, especially the fish dishes. We bought crab from the local fish shop and prepared at the boat. Thanks to the team for making memorable.”
Private houseboat day cruise from Kochi to Alappuzha with hotel pickup, 3 hours on the backwaters, and Kerala lunch included.
“Peacefull Backwater cruise on a Houseboat with Local Cuisine Lunch. Beautiful Canals, Excellent staff etc”
Hourly shikara trips from Rajiv Boat Jetty through Alleppey backwaters, villages, canals, and pro photo stops with guides Sarun and Jobin.
“Me and wife had a shikara ride with Mr. Sauran. This was one of the best experience we ever had. He was very polite, helpful and guided us a to what we need. The driver was polite, knowledgable. The experience was very beautiful. The best part was the driver not asking for any tip and…”
Sunrise kayaking in Alleppey backwaters: guided paddling around an island village, bird islands, and a snack break, with pickup.
“The young guides spent the whole time at the front chatting to each other or on their phones. They glanced back approx 3-4 times in total to check we were there, but weren’t really bothered about anyone’s safety. Seeing the sunrise Read more”
