A Complete Guide to Choosing the Best Kerala Backwater Tours for Your Trip

Kerala, famously known as God’s Own Country, is a land where nature, culture, and serenity meet in perfect harmony. Among its many attractions, the Kerala backwater tours stand out as one of the most unique and tranquil experiences a traveler can enjoy. Meandering through a vast network of canals, lakes, lagoons, and rivers, the backwaters offer an opportunity to slow down, reconnect with nature, and witness village life from a completely different perspective.

However, with so many routes, boat types, and experiences available, choosing the best Kerala backwater tour can be a bit overwhelming. This complete guide will help you select the right backwater cruise that suits your preferences, budget, and travel goals.

What Are Kerala Backwater Tours?

Kerala backwater tours involve a scenic cruise along interconnected waterways in a traditional houseboat (Kettuvallam) or small motorboat. These tours take you through lush greenery, quiet villages, coconut groves, paddy fields, and serene lakes.

Popular destinations for these tours include Alleppey, Kumarakom, Kollam, Ashtamudi, Kuttanad, and Kasargod, each offering a distinct flavor of Kerala’s rustic charm.

Step-by-Step Guide to Choosing the Best Kerala Backwater Tour

1. Decide Your Preferred Destination

Different backwater regions offer unique experiences. Choosing the right one is crucial.

• Alleppey (Alappuzha): Ideal for first-timers, it has the most houseboat options and scenic canals.
  
• Kumarakom: Quieter and more nature-focused, perfect for bird lovers and couples.
  
• Kollam & Ashtamudi Lake: Offbeat and peaceful, with longer cruises and fewer tourists.
  
• Kuttanad: Known for below-sea-level farming and authentic village life.
  
• Valiyaparamba & Kasargod: Less commercialized, great for solitude seekers.
  

If you’re short on time, Alleppey or Kumarakom is ideal. For offbeat and long tours, consider Kollam or Ashtamudi.

2. Choose the Type of Cruise

There are several ways to explore the Kerala backwaters:

• Day Cruises: Ideal for budget travelers and those with limited time (3–6 hours).
  
• Overnight Cruises: Includes meals and lodging; great for a more immersive experience.
  
• Multi-day Cruises: Best for slow travelers wanting to explore multiple regions at a leisurely pace.
  
• Shikara or Canoe Rides: Small boats that allow you to explore narrow canals and reach less accessible areas.
  

If you’re traveling with family or want comfort, go for a houseboat. For intimacy and closeness to nature, try a canoe or shikara.

3. Select the Right Houseboat

Kerala backwater tours are known for their houseboats, which range from budget to ultra-luxury. Here’s what to look for:

• Size: 1 to 5 bedrooms available; choose based on your group size.
  
• Facilities: Basic to luxury – includes AC, private bathrooms, sun decks, dining areas, and even Wi-Fi.
  
• Meals: Most houseboats include traditional Kerala meals made fresh on board.
  
• Crew: Usually includes a navigator, cook, and helper.
  

Tip: Check reviews, safety standards, and photos before booking.

4. Pick the Right Time to Travel

The best time for Kerala backwater tours is October to March, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for cruising.

• Summer (April–May): Hot and humid, but lower rates
  
• Monsoon (June–September): Lush greenery and romantic atmosphere, but heavy rains may affect travel
  

If you want to combine your tour with festivals, December–January is a great time to experience Kerala’s cultural vibrancy.

5. Plan Your Budget

Prices for Kerala backwater tours vary widely:

• Day cruises: ₹1,500–₹4,000 per person
  
• Overnight houseboats: ₹6,000–₹15,000 per night for two people (depending on boat type and season)
  
• Luxury boats: ₹20,000 and above, offering high-end amenities and services
  

Budget travelers can opt for shared rides or canoe tours, while honeymooners and families may prefer private luxury cruises.

6. Customize Your Experience

Many operators allow customization:

• Stopovers at villages, coir factories, temples
  
• Ayurvedic massage onboard
  
• Candlelight dinners for couples
  
• Fishing or cooking with the crew
  

Communicate your preferences at the time of booking for a personalized experience.

Top Travel Tips for Kerala Backwater Tours

• Pack Light: Bring cotton clothes, flip-flops, sunscreen, sunglasses, and insect repellent.
  
• Stay Connected: Some luxury boats offer Wi-Fi, but many areas have weak signals—use this time to digitally detox.
  
• Respect Local Culture: Dress modestly and be polite to villagers during stopovers.
  
• Go Eco-Friendly: Choose tour operators that follow sustainable practices—no plastic waste and minimal fuel usage.
  

Best Operators for Kerala Backwater Tours

While there are hundreds of tour providers, consider booking through reputable platforms or operators with strong reviews:

• Kerala Tourism Development Corporation (KTDC)
  
• Spice Routes Luxury Cruises
  
• Rainbow Cruises
  
• Lakes & Lagoons
  
• Xandari Riverscapes
  

Check if your operator is government-approved or certified for better service and safety.

Conclusion: Glide into Serenity with the Perfect Kerala Backwater Tour

A Kerala backwater tour is not just a journey—it’s a soulful experience that brings you closer to nature, tradition, and tranquility. Whether you want to drift lazily across Vembanad Lake, spot exotic birds in Kumarakom, or share a sunset over Ashtamudi, there’s a backwater route that’s just right for you.

By considering your destination, cruise type, season, and budget, you can easily select the best Kerala backwater tour tailored to your travel goals. So plan ahead, sail slow, and let Kerala’s gentle waterways guide you to unforgettable memories.