🌊 Introduction: The Charm of Alleppey Backwaters

The name Alleppey brings a gentle calmness to the heart — as if the door to an old story has just opened. Often called the “Venice of the East,” this city is built on water and seems to make time stand still the moment you see it.
Here, you get the rare opportunity to live on water, thanks to the stunning Alleppey houseboats. From the outside, these houseboats look breathtakingly beautiful, and once you step inside, you’re welcomed by an elegant interior featuring a bedroom, bathroom, dining area, and a deck. Large windows open up to mesmerizing views of the peaceful backwaters, making your stay unforgettable.
• Experience the Magic of Alleppey Houseboats
Alleppey attracts every kind of traveler — from budget explorers to luxury seekers. That’s why you’ll find different types of houseboats here, each offering unique features and facilities to suit every preference and budget.
• Types of Houseboats in Alleppey
- Budget / Standard Houseboats – Perfect for affordable stays with basic amenities.
- Deluxe Houseboats – Comfortable interiors and modern facilities for mid-range travelers.
- Premium Houseboats – Elegant design and enhanced comfort with air-conditioned rooms.
- Luxury / Super Luxury Houseboats – High-end interiors, private decks, and gourmet dining for a lavish experience.
- Group Multi-Bedroom Houseboats – Ideal for families or large groups looking to stay together and enjoy the backwaters.
• What’s Next?
In the next section, we’ll explore in detail:
- The amenities offered in each type of houseboat.
- Pricing details for different categories — including AC and Non-AC houseboats.
- Package options for full-day, 2-hour, and 4-hour Alleppey backwater cruises.
Stay tuned to find the perfect Alleppey houseboat package that matches your budget and travel style!
🚤 Alleppey Houseboat Rates for 2 Hours

Many travelers dream of enjoying the famous Alleppey houseboat ride, but due to limited time, they often miss the full-day experience. The good news is — you can now book a houseboat for just 2 hours and still explore the beauty of Alleppey’s backwaters.
Below are the different types of houseboats available for short 2-hour cruises along with their prices, features, and highlights.
• Budget Houseboat
Price: ₹2,000–2,500 (depending on the season)
Features:
- 1–2 beds
- Small and cozy setup
- Simple interiors without AC (fan available)
- Clean bathroom and wooden interiors
- Basic seating area
- Welcome drink on arrival – fresh coconut or juice
Experience:
In this 2-hour ride, you’ll cruise through narrow canals, surrounded by coconut trees, paddy fields, small bridges, fishermen, and village life. The peaceful water and beautiful landscape offer excellent photography opportunities, making your short trip truly memorable.
• Deluxe Houseboat
Price: ₹2,500–4,500 (depending on the season)
Features:
- 1–2 beds
- Clean bathroom and spacious interiors
- Comfortable seating area
- Some boats equipped with AC
- Welcome drink followed by light snacks
Experience:
Ideal for couples and small families, this ride starts with fun and excitement. As the boat glides through the backwaters, the open deck and cool breeze create a relaxing and refreshing atmosphere.
• Premium Luxury Houseboat
Price: ₹6,000–8,000 for 2 hours (depending on the season)
Features:
- 2–3 beds
- Fully air-conditioned and elegantly designed interiors
- Clean bathroom
- Welcome drink on arrival followed by tea and authentic Kerala snacks
Experience:
Perfect for couples, families, or luxury travelers, this experience lets you enjoy Alleppey’s scenic backwaters, lush greenery, colorful birds, and traditional village life — all while surrounded by comfort and luxury.
• Group / Multi-Bedroom Houseboat
Price: ₹8,000–12,000
Features:
- Large houseboat with 2–5 bedrooms
- Air-conditioned rooms with clean bathrooms
- Spacious living and dining areas
- Welcome drink and Kerala-style snacks served onboard
Experience:
Designed for large families or groups of friends, this houseboat doubles the fun of backwater cruising. Relax, chat, and capture beautiful moments together as you float through Alleppey’s tranquil waterways.
• Starting Points for 2-Hour Houseboat Rides
Most 2-hour Alleppey boat rides start from the Punnamada Boat Jetty, which is the most popular boarding point.
You can also choose Finishing Point Jetty (near the Nehru Trophy venue) or Rajiv/Kaichoondy Jetty — all located just 5–10 minutes from Alleppey city center or bus station.
• Timings for 2-Hour Alleppey Houseboat Cruises
These short cruises operate daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and you can choose your preferred time slot:
- Morning: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
- Midday: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
- Evening: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM (best for sunset views)
Whether you’re short on time or looking for a quick glimpse of Kerala’s backwaters, a 2-hour Alleppey houseboat cruise offers the perfect combination of scenic beauty, relaxation, and authentic local experience.
🛶 Alleppey Houseboat Rates for 4-Hour Cruise

If you want to enjoy the Alleppey houseboat experience for a bit longer, the 4-hour cruise is a great option. Even in a short trip, you’ll witness the beauty of Kerala’s serene backwaters and peaceful countryside life.
• Budget Houseboat
• Price: ₹3,500 – ₹5,000 (depending on the season)
• Suitable For: 2–4 people
• Features:
- Small boat with basic AC/Non-AC options
- 1 bedroom, simple living area, and a clean bathroom
- Polite and helpful staff onboard
• Food:
Traditional Kerala meals — rice, sambar, veg/non-veg curry, appam, or dosa.
• Best For:
Couples, small families, and budget-friendly travelers who want a simple yet peaceful experience.
• Deluxe Houseboat
• Price: ₹6,000 – ₹8,000 (depending on the season)
• Suitable For: 2–4 people
• Features:
- AC cabin with a cozy living room
- Modern bathroom and outdoor seating area
- Music system for entertainment
- Friendly and interactive staff
• Food:
Traditional Kerala meals, along with snacks, tea, and coffee.
• Best For:
Couples and small families looking for a comfortable and slightly luxurious experience.
• Premium Houseboat
• Price: ₹8,500 – ₹12,000 (depending on the season)
• Suitable For: 2–4 people
• Features:
- Fully air-conditioned cabin with attached bathroom
- Elegant living area with LCD TV and modern interiors
- Professional and attentive staff for service
• Food:
Multi-course Kerala meal including rice, sambar, rasam, vegetable curry, fish/chicken curry, salad, chutney, pickles, payasam, fruits, and sometimes ice cream or soft drinks.
(Alcohol available at an extra charge.)
• Best For:
Couples and small families who want the perfect blend of comfort and scenic views of Kerala’s backwaters.
• Luxury Houseboat
• Price: ₹15,000 – ₹25,000 (for 4 hours)
• Suitable For: 2–6 people
• Features:
- 2–3 luxury AC cabins with premium interiors
- Modern bathrooms with hot water
- Lounge area with sofa, TV, and music system
- Private chef onboard
- Professional staff to assist throughout the journey
• Food:
Customized Kerala meals — rice, sambar, rasam, fish/chicken curry, appam/dosa, and more.
You can also enjoy continental dishes like pasta, sandwiches, pancakes, soup, and salads.
Fresh Kerala seafood such as fish, prawn, and crab is also available (some packages include it, others charge extra).
• Best For:
Honeymoon couples, small celebrations, or travelers seeking a VIP luxury experience on the backwaters.
• Group / Multi-Bedroom Houseboat
• Price: ₹20,000 – ₹40,000 (depending on the season)
• Suitable For: 6–12 people
• Features:
- 3–5 air-conditioned bedrooms
- Spacious living and dining area
- Private sun deck and multiple bathrooms
- Party music system
- Friendly and cooperative staff
• Food:
Starters/Snacks: Banana chips, pakoras
Main Course: Rice, sambar, rasam, vegetable curry, fish/chicken curry
Side Dishes: Salad, chutney
Dessert: Payasam, fruits
Beverages: Tea, coffee, soft drinks, juice, water
(Some luxury/group packages also include alcoholic drinks for free or at an extra charge.)
• Best For:
Friends’ groups, large families, and corporate trips looking for a fun and memorable backwater experience.
• Starting Point & Timings
Most 4-hour Alleppey houseboat cruises begin from:
- Punnamada Boat Jetty or
- Finishing Point Jetty
Both locations are just 5–10 minutes away from Alleppey town or the main bus station.
• Timings:
- Morning Slot: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
- Afternoon Slot: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
• Final Thoughts
A 4-hour Alleppey houseboat ride is the perfect way to soak in the calmness of Kerala’s backwaters, lush green landscapes, and local village life — all in one beautiful journey.
Link: kerala Guide
🛶 Alleppey Houseboat Packages (1 Night Stay) — Experience the Magic of Kerala Backwaters

Discover the calm and natural beauty of Kerala’s backwaters with an unforgettable 1 Night Alleppey houseboat experience. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, with family, or in a large group — Alleppey offers a wide range of houseboat categories to match every budget and comfort level.
• Budget Houseboat (₹6,000 – ₹8,000)
(Price varies depending on the season)
• Facilities
- Basic houseboat with a simple room and ceiling fan
- Comfortable stay for short trips
• Meals Included
- Kerala rice, sambar, and 2–3 types of vegetable curries
- Papad, pickle, banana fry or pakoda, and tea
- Drinking water included
- Optional: Non-vegetarian food (fish/chicken) available at an additional cost
Perfect for budget travelers and short backwater getaways.
• Deluxe Houseboat (₹8,000 – ₹12,000)
(Price varies depending on the season)
• Facilities
- Spacious bedroom with attached bathroom
- Air conditioning for a comfortable and relaxing stay
• Meals Included
- Kerala rice, sambar, 2 vegetable dishes, papad, and pickle
- Dessert (payasam), banana fry or local snack, tea/coffee
- Breakfast options include idli, dosa, and bread omelet
- Delicious meals served by friendly and well-behaved staff
• Ideal for couples and small families who prefer comfort with value.
• Premium Houseboat (₹12,000 – ₹18,000)
(Price varies depending on the season)
• Facilities
- Elegant interiors and full-time air conditioning
- Private dining area with stylish furniture
- Bedroom with attached bathroom
• Meals Included
- Kerala rice or jeera rice, 3–4 dishes, fish fry or chicken curry (included)
- Tea/coffee served with traditional Kerala snacks
- Dosa, appam, bread omelet, juice, salad, and chutney
- Offers a fine-dining, restaurant-like experience on water
• Best suited for couples and families looking for premium comfort with scenic backwater views.
• Luxury Premium Houseboat (₹18,000 – ₹30,000)
(Price varies depending on the season)
• Facilities
- Fully air-conditioned houseboat with modern, elegant interiors
- Luxury bedroom with TV, music system, and bathtub
- Personalized services available on select boats
• Meals Included
- Multi-course meals including rice/chapati, vegetable dishes, fish, chicken, and prawns (included)
- Fresh salad, desserts, fancy snacks, and soft drinks
- Fine dining experience amidst the backwaters of Kerala
Perfect for honeymooners, luxury seekers, and VIP travelers.
• Group / Multi-Bedroom Houseboat (₹15,000 – ₹40,000)
(Price varies depending on the season)
• Facilities
- 2–5 bedrooms with full-time AC
- Dining hall, luxury beds with attached bathrooms
- Some boats include a top deck offering beautiful backwater views
• Meals Included
- Large meal portions suitable for groups
- Non-vegetarian dishes (fish/chicken) usually included
- Delicious food and a lively atmosphere — perfect for family or friends’ groups
• Best for large families, friend groups, and corporate outings.
• Duration of the Alleppey Houseboat Package
All the above houseboat packages are designed for a 1 Day / 1 Night stay.
- Check-in Time: 11:30 AM
- Check-out Time: 9:00 AM (next day)
- Meals Included: Lunch, evening tea/snacks, dinner, and breakfast
Guests can enjoy cruising through the scenic backwaters of Alleppey, watching paddy fields, palm trees, and village life along the way.
Link:Alleppey Guide
• Additional Information
- All houseboat packages include meals; the main difference lies in quality, presentation, and variety.
- Premium and luxury boats offer gourmet-style meals, while budget boats serve simple yet flavorful Kerala cuisine.
- Alcohol is allowed on board but not included in the package. Guests can buy it separately or from a nearby bar when the boat docks.
- Most boats depart from Punnamada Boat Jetty between 11:30 AM and 5:00 PM.
- After 5 PM, houseboats are not permitted to sail as local fishermen begin their daily work.
The Alleppey houseboat cruise is a peaceful and memorable journey through Kerala’s scenic canals — the perfect way to unwind, relax, and connect with nature.
🌅 Best Tips for Booking an Alleppey Houseboat

A good, verified, and trusted operator can make your houseboat journey unforgettable, while a poor one can completely ruin your experience. That’s why it’s important to check a few key things before making a booking
1. Choose a Government-Approved Operator
Always book your trip with a government-approved operator. You can find verified and licensed boats on the official Kerala Tourism Department website.
2. Go for KTDC-Approved or Licensed Boats
Boats that are KTDC-approved or licensed are considered safe and trustworthy.
3. Check Reviews Before Booking
Read customer reviews on trusted travel websites like TripAdvisor. Look for genuine and recent reviews before making a decision. Avoid fake or outdated reviews.
4. Contact the Operator Directly
Avoid booking through agents, as they often increase the price.
Always speak directly to the operator for clear communication and fair pricing. Stay away from agents you meet at stations or on the road.
• Things to Confirm Before Booking
Before finalizing your Alleppey houseboat booking, make sure to confirm the following details:
- Boat category – Deluxe, Premium, or Luxury
- Whether meals are included
- If it’s a private or shared boat
- AC availability – until what time it operates
- Always take photos and note down the license number instead of relying only on the boat’s appearance
• Pro Tip
Online booking is always the best option — but do it only through the direct operator or a trusted website.
Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll have an amazing and stress-free Alleppey backwater experience!
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) — Alleppey Houseboat Packages
What Is Included in the 2-Hour Alleppey Houseboat Package?
The 2-hour Alleppey houseboat package usually includes a scenic backwater ride, comfortable seating, and sometimes tea or coffee. It’s perfect for travelers who want to enjoy the beauty of Kerala’s backwaters in a short time.
Is Food Included in the 2-Hour Alleppey Houseboat Package (₹880)?
No, food is generally not included in the 2-hour package.
This short trip focuses mainly on the boat experience and sightseeing, not on meal service.
Can We Extend the Trip from 2 Hours to 4 Hours?
Yes, most houseboat operators allow you to extend your trip from 2 hours to 4 hours.
However, additional charges may apply depending on the operator and boat type.
How Much Does a 1-Day Alleppey Houseboat Trip Cost?
A full-day Alleppey houseboat trip usually costs between ₹8,000 and ₹12,000, depending on:
The boat category (Deluxe, Premium, or Luxury)
The season or travel month
Whether meals and air-conditioning are included
🌊 Conclusion
An Alleppey houseboat ride isn’t just a trip — it’s an experience that stays with you. Whether you go for a short 2-hour cruise or spend a full day on the backwaters, the calm, beauty, and charm of Alleppey will touch your heart
