Kerala Backwaters Holiday | Scenic Houseboat Experience

Relax and explore the serene backwaters of Kerala on a luxury houseboat.

The Kerala Backwaters Holiday Package offers an unforgettable journey through the tranquil and picturesque waterways of God’s Own Country. Glide through serene canals, rivers, and lagoons aboard a traditional houseboat, surrounded by lush greenery, coconut groves, and charming village life. This tour is ideal for travelers seeking peace, relaxation, and a closer connection to nature while experiencing the unique culture and lifestyle of Kerala’s backwater communities. Along the way, enjoy freshly prepared local cuisine on board, witness vibrant sunsets reflecting on the water, and explore quaint villages to experience traditional Kerala life. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a solo retreat, or a family holiday, this package blends comfort, nature, and culture for a truly memorable experience.

Highlights of the Tour :

Relaxing houseboat cruise through the serene Vembanad Lake and interconnected canals
Experience traditional Kerala cuisine freshly prepared on board
Explore picturesque villages, coconut groves, and lush paddy fields along the backwaters
Optional excursions to local temples, markets, and cultural spots
Witness the tranquil lifestyle of rural Kerala and its unique waterway culture
Enjoy peaceful sunsets and sunrise views over the backwaters
Perfect for solo travelers, couples, and nature enthusiasts seeking a calm and immersive experience

Journey at a Glance :

Itinerary:

A relaxing journey through Kerala’s serene backwaters, cruising aboard traditional houseboats, exploring lush canals, quaint villages, and lagoons, while enjoying local cuisine and the tranquil beauty of God’s Own Country.

Day 1: Arrival in Kochi – Gateway to Kerala / Transfer to Alleppey – 150 KM – 4 Hours

Arrive at Cochin International Airport / Railway Station in the morning. Meet our representative and drive to Alleppey, the backwater capital of Kerala. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and take some time to relax. In the evening, explore Alleppey town or enjoy a leisurely walk along the tranquil canals and coconut groves. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

Alleppey:
Alleppey (Alappuzha) is renowned as the “Venice of the East” for its intricate network of canals, lagoons, and backwaters. The town is a hub of Kerala’s traditional houseboats, paddy fields, and lush landscapes. Coconut palms, small villages, and quiet waterways give travelers a glimpse into the everyday life of Kerala’s rural communities. The region is famous for its hospitality, serene environment, and picturesque sunset views over the backwaters.

Day 2: Alleppey – Houseboat Cruise / Backwater Exploration

After breakfast, board a traditional houseboat for a scenic cruise through the tranquil Vembanad Lake and surrounding canals. Enjoy the panoramic views of coconut groves, paddy fields, and quaint villages along the way. A traditional Kerala meal is served on board, prepared with fresh local ingredients. Spend the day relaxing, watching local life unfold along the waterways, and capturing stunning photographs of the backwaters. Overnight stay on the houseboat.

Heritage, Traditions & Attractions:
The Kerala backwaters are a unique ecosystem, consisting of interconnected lagoons, rivers, and lakes. Life along the canals is slow and traditional, with villagers engaging in fishing, coir making, and paddy cultivation. Houseboats, originally used for transporting rice, have been transformed into floating cottages, offering travelers a comfortable and immersive experience. The backwaters are an essential part of Kerala’s cultural identity, providing insight into the harmony between nature and human life.

Day 3: Alleppey – Day at Leisure / Optional Village Excursions

After breakfast, spend the day at leisure to enjoy the houseboat or hotel facilities. Optional excursions include visiting local villages, canoe rides through smaller canals, or exploring nearby temples and markets. Experience Kerala’s traditional lifestyle, watch local artisans at work, and enjoy the serene environment at your own pace. Dinner and overnight stay on the houseboat or at the hotel.

Heritage, Traditions & Attractions:
Exploring the villages along the backwaters provides a glimpse into Kerala’s rich traditions. Farmers work in paddy fields using age-old methods, local women weave coir mats and baskets, and children play along the canals. The daily rhythms of village life, combined with the natural beauty of the surroundings, create a peaceful and authentic experience for solo travelers and families alike.

Day 4: Departure from Alleppey – Return to Kochi / Onward Journey – 150 KM – 4 Hours

After breakfast, check out from the houseboat or hotel and drive back to Cochin Airport / Railway Station for your onward journey. Depart with memories of tranquil backwaters, scenic landscapes, and an unforgettable experience of Kerala’s unique lifestyle.

Package Inclued :
Accommodation in well-rated hotels/resorts
Daily breakfast and dinner
Private/sic transportation for the entire tour
Sightseeing as per itinerary
All toll taxes, driver allowances, and parking fees
Pick-up and drop from Chandigarh

Package Excludes:
Airfare/train fare
Any personal expenses (laundry, shopping, etc.)
Adventure activities (paragliding, river rafting, etc.)
Entry fees for monuments, parks, etc.
Travel insurance and medical expenses
Any additional sightseeing or extra usage of the vehicle not mentioned in the itinerary

No refund will be made for any unused accommodation, missed meals, transportation segments, sightseeing tours or any other service. Such unused items are neither refundable nor exchangeable.
Room allocation is subject to hotel availability at the time of check-in and will be provided in the room category mentioned on your confirmation voucher.
No refund can be claimed if the hotel services or amenities do not meet your expectations; such cases will be considered individually on a case-by-case basis.

Cancellation 45 days or more before departure: 25% of the tour cost
Cancellation between 44 and 31 days before departure: 40% of the tour cost
Cancellation between 30 and 15 days before departure: 50% of the tour cost
Cancellation between 14 and 7 days before departure: 75% of the tour cost
Cancellation within 6 days of departure or in case of no-show: 100% of the tour cost
To confirm your booking, please deposit 50% of the tour cost in advance into our company’s account.

Notes

Identity Proof Requirements

Guests are requested to carry two photocopies (xerox) of any valid photo ID proof (PAN Card not accepted) such as Passport, Driving Licence, Voter ID, or Aadhaar Card, and submit one copy at the time of booking. Additionally, guests must carry two passport-size photographs.

Children / Students: Two photocopies of School or College Photo Identity Card (to be submitted at the time of booking).
Adults: Original plus photocopy of Aadhaar Card / Driving Licence / Voter ID / Passport.
Infants: Aadhaar Card or Birth Certificate.
NRI / Foreign Nationals: Mandatory Passport with valid Indian Visa / OCI Card / PIO Card.

Special Notes

The Tour Manager’s service will commence from the first destination mentioned in the itinerary.
Meal services will start from Day 1 at the final arrival destination and continue until departure from the last destination as per the itinerary.
Meal services are not provided during air travel or transit halts.

Road Transportation

All transfers and sightseeing will be provided by air-conditioned coach.
Dalhousie local sightseeing will be conducted by Non A/C Alto / Omni (4 passengers per vehicle).
Dharamshala local sightseeing will be conducted by Non A/C Maruti Van / Alto (4 passengers per vehicle).

Important Notes

In case of insufficient bookings, certain tour categories may be merged with other compatible tour groups to ensure smooth operation.
While every effort is made to maintain the planned itinerary, the programme is subject to change without prior notice due to operational reasons.
In case of a pandemic or similar situation, some sightseeing spots may be temporarily closed. Alternative sightseeing will be arranged where possible.
Guests must comply with mandatory travel requirements such as tests, vaccination certificates, self-declarations, or e-pass formalities as per state or central government regulations. Any additional costs incurred will be borne by the guest.
Manali Travels does not recommend or endorse shopping at any specific shop. Shopping is at the sole discretion of the guest.