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Houseboat Experience in Alleppey – Floating Through Kerala’s Backwaters

🌊 A Houseboat Dream: My Unforgettable Trip to Alleppey, Kerala

✨ Why I Wanted to Go to Alleppey

Alleppey, or Alappuzha as the locals call it, had always been a dreamy place I wanted to visit. I had heard stories about calm backwaters, houseboats floating over lakes that looked like mirrors, and coconut trees lining the banks like quiet guards. But nothing could have prepared me for the calmness I felt when I finally went in January 2025.

🚗 How I Got to Alleppey

I took a flight to Cochin International Airport (COK), which is about 75 km away. I then took a cab that I had already booked to Alleppey. The two-hour ride felt like a warm-up as the lush greenery, fresh air, and daily life of the area slowly unfolded outside the window.

🚆 Another Choice

You can also take the train to Alleppey from the Alappuzha Railway Station, which is well connected to the main cities in Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

🚢 Living on Water: My Stay on a Houseboat

This was by far the best part of my trip. I reserved a traditional Kettuvallam houseboat for a one-night cruise through the backwaters of Alleppey. It seemed like time had stopped as the boat slowly moved through canals lined with palm trees.

🌇 What My Day Looked Like:

  • A drink when I got there 🍹
  • Fresh Kerala lunch served on board 🍛
  • The sunset from the upper deck made me stop and think 🌇

I even slept in a cosy cabin with big windows that let in the moonlight. The sound of water gently hitting the boat’s hull when I woke up was magical.

📍 Must-See Places in Alleppey

1. Alappuzha Beach

This long, sandy beach with an old pier that goes out into the sea is great for a morning walk. I got a fresh coconut and watched locals fish with nets they threw by hand. Easy. Calm.

2. The Palace of Krishnapuram

I took a short detour from Alleppey to see this beautiful palace from the 18th century. The mural of Gajendra Moksha and the old collections gave me a lot of information about Kerala’s history.

3. The Island of Pathiramanal

This place is like heaven for birdwatchers. The island is a green sanctuary in Vembanad Lake that you can get to by boat.

4. Lake Vembanad

The best way to see this lake is by canoe or motorboat. I rented a small canoe for ₹600 an hour and paddled through narrow canals lined with blooming lotus flowers.

💰 How I Planned My Budget (2025)

  • Houseboat (1 night, private): ₹6,000–₹8,000 with meals included
  • Local homestay: ₹1,200 per night
  • Meals at local restaurants: ₹300 per meal
  • Local transport (auto/cab): ₹300–₹600 per day

⭐ What I’d Suggest

  • Book your houseboat directly with local companies. It’s cheaper and supports small businesses.
  • For authentic Kerala hospitality, skip resorts and stay in a homestay near the canals.
  • Don’t miss dishes like Karimeen Pollichathu (Pearl Spot Fish) and Appam with stew.

🗺️ Location Map

📍 View Alleppey on Google Maps

🔗 Helpful Travel Links

📅 The Best Time to Go

The best time to visit is from November to February, when the weather is cool and dry, perfect for cruising and sightseeing. Avoid monsoon (June to September) unless you love the rain and lush greenery.

📌 Final Thoughts

Alleppey was more than just a place to visit; it was a chance to slow down, reconnect with nature, and enjoy the little things. Alleppey’s backwaters are perfect for a honeymoon, family vacation, or solo retreat—filled with peace and moments that last long after you return home.

🧳 About the Author

Priya Singh is a travel writer from Mumbai who loves exploring offbeat destinations. She has sailed through Kerala’s peaceful backwaters many times and believes there’s nothing more soothing than the sound of oars cutting through still water. When not traveling, she writes about her journeys while sipping masala chai with her cat.

📸 Image Attribution

Featured image by Tim Broadbent on Unsplash

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