Is It Worth Staying in a Houseboat in Alleppey? Here’s Everything You Need to Know
Is it worth staying in a houseboat in Alleppey? You may think about this when you are planning a houseboat cruise in Alleppey. Why do you book just a stay, and why don’t you go for an extraordinary stay experience during your Kerala visit? A houseboat in Alleppey is worth it to give you the best and most extraordinary stay experience.
A trip to Kerala is incomplete without experiencing the charm of Alleppey’s houseboats. Floating on the scenic backwaters, surrounded by coconut palms and traditional villages, this unique stay is more than just accommodation, it is a once-in-a-lifetime Kerala houseboat experience. But many travelers still ask, “Is it worth staying in a houseboat in Alleppey?”
Let’s dive into everything you need to know, prices, types, food, attractions, and why a houseboat stay could be the highlight of your Kerala trip.
What Makes a Houseboat Stay in Alleppey Special?
A houseboat stay in Alleppey is not just accommodation, it is an experience that combines Kerala’s culture, cuisine, and natural beauty in one journey. Here’s what makes it truly special:
- Scenic Backwaters of Kerala
- Drift through serene canals, lagoons, and lakes surrounded by lush coconut trees.
- Wake up to the unmatched natural beauty of Alleppey backwaters.
- Perfect for photography, birdwatching, and peaceful relaxation.
- Traditional Kerala Houseboat Designs
- The boats, called Kettuvallams, are crafted using ancient boat-building techniques.
- Interiors are modernized with air-conditioned bedrooms, clean bathrooms, and open lounges.
- Choose from Deluxe, Premium, and Luxury houseboats depending on comfort level.
- Authentic Kerala Cuisine
- Experience the Kerala houseboat food experience with freshly cooked meals.
- Traditional dishes like Karimeen (pearl spot fish), Kerala Sadhya, and coconut-based curries are served onboard.
- Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available, often prepared with local spices.
- Sunset Cruises & Night Stays
- Evening sunset cruises are magical, with the sky turning shades of orange and pink.
- Overnight stays let you enjoy the quiet waters, starry skies, and village sounds at night.
- Options include day cruises vs night stays depending on budget and time.
- Local Attractions & Experiences
- Stop by small villages to explore paddy fields, temples, and coir-making units.
- Interact with locals and understand why Kerala is worth visiting for its culture and hospitality.
- Activities like kayaking and fishing can be arranged.
- Houseboat Comfort & Safety
- Modern houseboats offer clean rooms, attached bathrooms, and safety equipment.
- Professional staff ensures smooth sailing and comfort throughout your journey.
- Different alleppey houseboat packages available for families, couples, and groups.
Inside the Houseboat: Designs, Comfort & Cuisine
Every detail in houseboats is designed to give you the perfect balance of authenticity, comfort, and relaxation while you sail through Alleppey’s tranquil backwaters.
- Unique Houseboat Designs: Kerala’s iconic kettuvallams (traditional rice barges) have been beautifully transformed into houseboats that reflect both heritage and innovation. From cozy one-bedroom retreats for couples to spacious, multi-room luxury boats for families and groups, each design is crafted with bamboo, coir, and wood to preserve its cultural charm while offering modern comforts.
- Comfort on Board: Inside the houseboat, you will find fully furnished air-conditioned bedrooms, ensuite bathrooms, and glass-covered lounges that give uninterrupted views of the backwaters. Private dining areas and sundecks ensure you can relax peacefully.
- Authentic Kerala Cuisine: No houseboat experience is complete without tasting the flavors of Kerala. Guests are treated to freshly cooked meals prepared on board, often featuring the day’s catch from the backwaters. From spicy fish curry and karimeen pollichathu (pearl spot fish) to fluffy appams and sweet payasam, every dish is a celebration of Kerala’s rich culinary heritage.
Types of Houseboats in Alleppey
Houseboats come in different categories to fit every budget and preference.
| Type | Features | Best For | Price Range (per night) |
| Deluxe | Basic facilities, Air Conditioned Rooms, traditional Kerala meals | Budget travelers | ₹15,000 – ₹20,000 |
| Premium | Air-conditioned rooms, private dining area, delicious Kerala meals | Families, couples, conferences | ₹20,000 – ₹24,000 |
| Luxury | Full-time A/C, plush interiors, modern bathrooms, personalized service, Delicious Kerala Meals | Honeymooners, luxury seekers, Corporate Events | ₹25,000-₹30,000+ |
Alleppey Houseboat Itinerary
Most packages come with two options: Day Cruise or Overnight Stay.
Day Cruise (5-6 hours)
- Morning check-in at 11 AM & afternoon check-out at 4.30 PM
- Cruise through backwaters, lunch onboard
- Perfect for short stays
- Tea/coffee with snacks served in the evening
- Stops at scenic villages or toddy shops (optional)
- Opportunity to witness coir making, fishing, or paddy fields
Overnight Stay
- Check-in by noon, overnight stay, check-out next morning
- Cruise till evening, dock at night
- Candlelight dinner & breakfast included
- Best to enjoy the full Kerala backwater experience
- Evening tea with banana fritters (a Kerala specialty)
- Star-gazing and quiet night amidst nature
- Early morning village walk or canoe ride (optional, in some packages)
- Wake up to bird calls and serene sunrise views
Things to Do in Alleppey Backwaters
Apart from cruising, your houseboat trip lets you explore:
- Village Walks – Take a stroll through serene villages, watch coir-making, toddy tapping, and traditional fishing methods.
- Fishing – Try your hand at catching fish with simple bamboo rods or nets.
- Local Attractions – Explore Alleppey beach, temples, historic churches, paddy fields, and bird-watching spots along the backwaters.
- Kerala Food Experience – Relish authentic Kerala meals and seafood specialties freshly cooked on board by local chefs.
- Ayurvedic Massage – Some packages offer relaxing Ayurvedic treatments to complete the rejuvenating experience.
- Photography – Capture the breathtaking landscapes, migratory birds, and reflections of coconut palms on still waters.
When to Visit Alleppey for the Best Experience
The best time to enjoy a luxury houseboat cruise in Alleppey is November to February, when the weather is cool, skies are clear, and the backwaters are at their most serene. Still, every season has its own charm:
- Winter (Nov–Feb): Pleasantly cool (17°C–32°C) with misty mornings and golden sunsets. Perfect for honeymoons, families, and overnight cruises.
- Summer (Mar–May): Warm (up to 37–39°C) but peaceful, with fewer tourists. Great for budget travelers and short AC cruises.
- Monsoon (Jun–Sep): A lush, romantic backdrop with refreshing rains. Off-season for houseboats, but ideal if you love greenery and solitude (best after water levels settle).
Houseboat Booking Tips in Kerala to Make Your Trip Memorable
✔ Book through trusted operators like Lake Park Cruise, to ensure safety, quality service, and no hidden charges.
✔ Confirm inclusions like meals, A/C usage (day/night), sightseeing stops, and entry charges.
✔ Choose the right category – Premium/Luxury boats are ideal for summer, while Deluxe boats are cost-effective in cooler months.
✔ Plan ahead – Book at least 2–3 months in advance for the peak season (Nov–Feb).
✔ Check reviews & photos of the boat to avoid last-minute surprises.
✔ Discuss itinerary options in advance if you want village stops, canoe rides, or special activities.
Is It Worth Staying in a Houseboat in Alleppey? Final Verdict
Yes, staying in a houseboat in Alleppey is absolutely worth it if you’re seeking a unique experience that blends the charm of Kerala’s backwater cruises with local culture, authentic cuisine, breathtaking scenery, and romantic tranquility. While it may be costlier than conventional stays and affected by crowds during peak seasons or weather disruptions in the monsoon, these are minor trade-offs compared to the magic of drifting through calm waters and soaking in Kerala’s natural beauty.
With the right planning, choosing the best season, and booking a reputable operator, a houseboat stay becomes an unforgettable highlight of any Kerala trip.
If you are visiting Kerala, staying in an Alleppey houseboat is absolutely worth it. It is not just a place to sleep, it is a blend of Kerala’s culture, cuisine, and natural beauty in one unforgettable experience.
Whether you pick a budget Deluxe houseboat, Premium houseboat or a Luxury houseboat in Alleppey, book now through Lake Park Cruise and get amazing houseboat cruising experience.
FAQ about Alleppey Houseboats
- Is a houseboat stay in Alleppey really worth the money?
Yes! A houseboat is more than just accommodation, it is a moving experience through Kerala’s serene backwaters, complete with traditional meals, scenic views, and a cozy stay that you won’t find in a regular hotel. - What makes a houseboat different from staying at a resort?
While resorts offer comfort on land, houseboats let you live on the water. You wake up to rippling canals, swaying palms, and village life passing by a truly immersive cultural and natural experience. - Do houseboats offer enough comfort for a relaxing stay?
Absolutely. Modern houseboats are well-designed with air-conditioned bedrooms, clean bathrooms, dining areas, and lounges. You enjoy hotel-like comfort while gently cruising on the water. - Is the food on a houseboat worth trying?
Yes! Meals are freshly prepared on board, often with authentic Kerala recipes like Karimeen (pearl spot fish) and coconut-rich curries. Dining while floating through the backwaters adds to the charm. - Who will enjoy a houseboat stay the most?
Houseboats are perfect for couples, families, and groups who want to relax, disconnect from city noise, and soak in nature. If you value peace, unique experiences, and authentic Kerala vibes, it’s absolutely worth it.
