Introduction to Kerala Backwater Tour Packages
Kerala backwater tour packages offer a unique way to experience the calm and charm of southern India. This slow-moving journey through lagoons, canals, and lakes showcases the rural life of Kerala, away from noisy cities. The combination of nature, culture, and comfort makes these packages popular among travelers seeking a peaceful break.
What Makes Kerala Backwaters Special?
Kerala’s backwaters are a mix of over 900 km of interconnected waterways. These include lakes, rivers, inlets, and man-made canals, stretching from Kollam to Kochi. The water runs alongside paddy fields, coconut groves, and small villages. Traditional wooden houseboats, known as “kettuvallams,” offer a floating stay with authentic meals and stunning views.
Unlike other holiday destinations, Kerala backwater tour packages focus on stillness, village life, and slow travel. The rhythm of the water, chirping birds, and gentle sway of the boat make the experience both calming and memorable.
Top Destinations Covered in Kerala Backwater Tour Packages
Alleppey (Alappuzha)
Alleppey is often referred to as the heart of the backwaters. It is the most preferred location for houseboat stays. Tourists can enjoy a full-day cruise or opt for an overnight trip with meals on board. The boat glides past green rice fields, traditional homes, and narrow canals.
Kumarakom
Situated near Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom is another quiet location perfect for backwater stays. Many Kerala backwater tour packages offer houseboat and resort options here. It is also known for bird watching, especially at the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary.
Kollam
Kollam offers one of the longest backwater cruises in Kerala, stretching nearly eight hours to Alleppey. The ride passes through untouched village areas and is ideal for those seeking a deeper view of Kerala’s inland culture.
Kasaragod
Though less popular, Kasaragod in North Kerala offers peaceful backwater routes like Valiyaparamba. It’s a great option for travelers wanting privacy and fewer crowds.
Types of Kerala Backwater Tour Packages
Day Cruise Packages
These packages include a 5–6-hour journey, usually starting from Alleppey or Kumarakom. Meals are included, and the cruise covers major canals, lakes, and river paths. Ideal for those short on time.
Overnight Houseboat Packages
These include lunch, dinner, breakfast, and an overnight stay in a furnished houseboat. Perfect for couples, families, or solo travelers wanting a deeper experience.
Multi-Day Packages
These Kerala backwater tour packages are a mix of backwater cruises and land stays. Typically ranging from 3 to 7 days, they combine visits to Munnar, Thekkady, or Kochi along with houseboat stays.
Customized Group Packages
Special packages for large families, friends, or corporate teams. These can include multiple houseboats, onboard events, traditional music, and village visits.
What to Expect in a Typical Houseboat Package
A standard Kerala backwater tour package usually includes:
- Welcome drink upon arrival
- Private houseboat with attached bathrooms
- Vegetarian and non-vegetarian Kerala meals
- Evening tea/coffee with snacks
- Cruise through Vembanad or Punnamada Lake
- Night halt near a village or island
- Breakfast with Kerala delicacies
Houseboats have modern amenities, but they retain a rustic charm. Most boats have 1 to 5 bedrooms, a dining area, and a deck to relax and view the landscape.
Best Time to Book Kerala Backwater Tour Packages
The ideal season for Kerala backwater tours is from October to March. The weather is cool, skies are clear, and the breeze is pleasant. Houseboat rides are more comfortable during this period. Monsoon months (June to September) are less popular due to heavy rains but are favored by those seeking solitude and discounts.
Cuisine Served in Houseboat Packages
Kerala cuisine is a major attraction of these tours. Meals often include:
- Freshwater fish like Karimeen (Pearl Spot)
- Rice, sambar, avial, thoran (veg dishes)
- Kerala parotta with chicken curry
- Banana chips and jackfruit chips
- Fresh coconut water and local desserts
Food is cooked onboard using traditional recipes. Guests can also request customized meals, including Jain or vegan options.
Local Life Along the Backwaters
One of the highlights of Kerala backwater tour packages is the chance to witness real Kerala life. You’ll pass by:
- People fishing in canoes
- Women washing clothes at the banks
- Toddy tappers climbing coconut trees
- Children rowing to school in small boats
- Farmers tending to rice paddies
It gives travelers a window into how water shapes daily life in Kerala.
Houseboat Safety and Comfort
Modern houseboats follow strict safety norms. Each boat includes:
- Life jackets
- First-aid kits
- Fire extinguishers
- Trained crew members
- Mosquito nets and fans
- Air conditioning (in select packages)
The boats anchor at night in safe and approved locations. The crew typically includes a captain, cook, and assistant.
Responsible Tourism in Kerala Backwater Tour Packages
Efforts are being made to keep the backwaters clean and sustainable. Many operators:
- Use solar panels for lighting
- Avoid plastic on board
- Treat waste water before disposal
- Support local farmers and artisans
Travelers are encouraged to follow eco-friendly practices during the tour.
Tips Before Booking Kerala Backwater Tour Packages
- Check Boat Certification: Always book certified boats with verified reviews.
- Inquire About AC Timings: Many boats offer air conditioning only during nighttime.
- Clarify Inclusions: Confirm meals, cruise hours, and halt timings before booking.
- Pack Light: Carry cotton clothes, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a good camera.
- Respect Local Culture: Dress modestly when off the boat and interacting with villagers.
Ideal Itinerary for Kerala Backwater Tour Packages (3 Days)
Day 1
Arrival in Alleppey, check-in to houseboat by noon. Enjoy lunch, cruise till evening, halt at a calm village location. Dinner and overnight stay.
Day 2
After breakfast, disembark. Head to Kumarakom by road. Check-in to a resort near the lake. Visit the bird sanctuary or relax by the lake. Overnight at resort.
Day 3
Early morning canoe ride (optional). Breakfast at resort. Departure by noon.
This itinerary offers a balance between cruising and land-based village life.
How to Book Kerala Backwater Tour Packages
There are multiple ways to book:
- Online travel platforms: Websites like MakeMyTrip, Yatra, and Booking.com
- Local tour operators: Based in Alleppey, Kumarakom, or Kochi
- Tourism offices: Kerala Tourism outlets in major cities
- Direct booking: Some houseboat operators have their own websites with detailed package options
Advance booking is recommended during peak season (Dec-Jan). Always check user reviews and terms before payment.
Final Thoughts on Kerala Backwater Tour Packages
Kerala backwater tour packages are much more than a vacation—they offer a pause from fast city life. Every bend of the water brings a new view, a new story. From houseboat rides to fresh meals and glimpses of local culture, it’s a journey that stays in the memory long after it ends.
If you’re looking for calm, simplicity, and real India, Kerala’s backwaters await.