Kerala Backwater Cruise

Kerala Backwater cruise tips & insights
Kerala backwaters
They are a network of beautiful lakes, rivers, and canals stretching 900 kilometers (550 miles) down India's southwest tropical coast. The low-lying islands are populated with small riverbank villages and intensely green tropical vegetation.

Kerala's famous house boats
These long, wood-hulled cargo boats once transported rice and spices. They have been converted into luxury multi-bedroom cruise boats with thatched roofs. They come with a captain and cook and boast comfortably furnished living-room lounges with open sides for viewing the photogenic passing island scenes. The ambiance is serene.

When to go
Climate will influence your decision.
• Best period is mid-November to mid-February. Heat, humidity, and rain are at their lowest points. Be aware: The two weeks before and after New Year's Day have the highest tourist counts.
• Heavy tropical rains occur most from May through October. Expect peak monsoon rains in June and July - and peak heat and humidity in April and May.

Best Route
Most visitors embark and return to Alleypey (Allapuzha). Unfortunately, the backwaters near Alleypey can sometimes be houseboat-congested. I recommend doing what I did. I cruised one way from Kollam (Kottayam) to Alleypey. This allowed me to enjoy relatively houseboat-free views before arriving in Alleypey.

Cost
Most houseboats charge in the US$125 to $300+ per night range. Season affects the price, as do a boat's quality and amenities (such as air conditioning).

Number of nights
Most visitors book a two-night Kerala houseboat cruise. Some opt for one night, others take a week.

Pre- and post-cruise stays
Kerala is perfect for cruise extensions because it has quality seaside resorts and beautiful beaches.