Experience Kerala’s Backwater Houseboat Circuit covering Alleppey, Kumarakom, and Kollam. Discover serene canals, lush landscapes, traditional villages, and tranquil lake cruises with a 3-7 day itinerary. Approach Plane Pockets to plan your travel and book your flights and holiday packages.
Kerala, known as “God’s Own Country,” is famous for its green landscapes, calm beaches, and peaceful backwaters. One of the best ways to experience it is by traveling across Kerala’s backwater houseboat circuit, which goes through Alleppey, Kumarakom, and Kollam. This route lets travelers enjoy the quiet life along the waterways, with traditional villages, coconut trees, and a variety of birds along the way. Traveling this circuit is more than just a trip. It is a chance to explore Kerala’s culture, heritage, and natural beauty while relaxing on a comfortable houseboat.
India has several best travel destinations for nature lovers. If you love nature and want a memorable vacation surrounded by greenery and water, plan a trip to Kerala. To help you prepare your itinerary for the Kerala backwater circuit, this travel guide shares all the essential information. Here, you will find details about must-visit places, the best time to visit, ideal travel options, and more.
Top Attractions on the Kerala Backwater Cruise Circuit
The Kerala backwater cruise circuit offers travelers a mix of natural beauty and cultural experiences. Sail through Kerala’s backwaters and discover hidden gems at every turn. Here are some of the top attractions you shouldn’t miss.
Alleppey (Alappuzha)
Alleppey, often called the “Venice of the East,” is the main starting point for backwater trips in Kerala. You can hop on a houseboat, cruise in Alleppey’s backwater, and glide through calm canals surrounded by green fields and palm trees. Along the way, you will get to see floating markets, rice fields, and small villages that make the scenery peaceful and beautiful.
Kumarakom
Kumarakom sits on the banks of the beautiful Vembanad Lake and is known for its calm backwaters and famous bird sanctuary. It is a quieter and more peaceful spot compared to Alleppey. Hence, it is perfect for those who want to relax. In Kumarakom, you can go kayaking, watch colorful birds, or just unwind on the houseboat while enjoying stunning sunsets over the lake.
Kollam (Quilon)
Kollam lies at the southern end of the Kerala backwater circuit and is known for its wide lagoons, quiet canals, and traditional coir-making villages. It is a peaceful place with fewer crowds and so you can get a true look at local life here. In Kollam, you can enjoy houseboat rides, try fishing, or visit old temples that reflect the region’s rich history.
Perfect Time to Go for the Kerala Backwater Houseboat Trip
You can enjoy the Kerala backwater houseboat trip any time of the year, but the best time to visit is from October to March. During these months, the weather is cool, the skies are clear, and the water is perfect for cruising.
If you travel during the monsoon season (June to September), you will see Kerala at its greenest, but heavy rains might affect houseboat schedules. The summer months (April-May) can be hot and humid, which can make long cruises less comfortable.
For bird lovers, winter is the ideal time to visit, as Kumarakom attracts many migratory birds from around the world. Generally, planning your trip in the peak season gives you the best experience with calm waters, clear skies, and a truly magical houseboat journey.
How to Reach Kerala’s Backwater Houseboat Circuit
Kerala is well-connected by air, rail, and road. Hence, you can easily access Alleppey, Kumarakom, and Kollam and get the joy of living in backwater houseboats based on your convenience and budget. These are some travel options you can consider to reach the Kerala backwater circuit
Air
The nearest airport to Alleppey is Cochin International Airport (COK), about 80 km away. If you are heading to Kollam, Trivandrum International Airport (TRV) is closer. Both airports have domestic and international flights connecting to major cities in India and abroad. You can book your flights with Plane Pockets for an easy and hassle-free travel experience.
Train
You can easily reach the backwaters by train, as Alleppey, Kumarakom, and Kollam all have well-connected railway stations. Trains from major Indian cities like Kochi, Trivandrum, Bangalore, and more make traveling to any of these places simple and convenient.
Bus/Car
You can travel to the backwater towns easily with regular KSRTC buses that connect major cities across the state. In case you prefer more comfort and flexibility, you can hire a private taxi or rent a car.
Kerala Backwater Circuit Travel Itinerary for 3–7 Days
You can create a personalized itinerary for your Kerala backwater trip based on how many days you want to spend exploring. No matter whether you have three days or a whole week, each stop will offer a special experience of Kerala’s beauty and culture. Here’s a simple way to plan your Kerala backwater houseboat journey:
- Start in Alleppey (1–2 days): Stay on a houseboat, cruise through calm canals, and visit local villages to see everyday life along the backwaters.
- Head to Kumarakom (1–2 days): Explore the bird sanctuary, go kayaking, and relax by the peaceful lakeside surrounded by lush greenery.
- End in Kollam (1–2 days): Discover the southern backwaters, watch traditional coir-making, and enjoy the quiet beauty of the lagoons.
A well-organized Kerala travel itinerary will make it easy for you to experience a perfect blend of nature, local traditions, and the comfort of staying on a houseboat. Get help from Plane Pockets’ AI-based travel assistant PuNIMA if you require Kerala travel ideas and tips.
Plan Your Serene Kerala Backwater Getaway with Plane Pockets
Planning a trip isn’t always easy. A houseboat tour can be even more challenging, as you need to consider factors like availability, budget, and amenities. With Plane Pockets, you can easily book complete Kerala travel packages that include flights, hotels, and houseboat stays.
To make your journey through Alleppey, Kumarakom, and Kollam simple and enjoyable, we offer special options for couples, families, and solo travelers. Booking your Kerala trip with Plane Pockets ensures the best deals and a stress-free experience from start to finish.
No matter whether you love nature, enjoy photography, or simply want a peaceful retreat, Kerala’s backwater circuit will offer an unforgettable adventure.
