Houseboats in Kumarakom: Sail into Serenity

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Sail into Serenity: The Ultimate Houseboat Experience in Kumarakom

Kumarakom sits in the backwaters of Kerala, where canals connect lakes and villages. The houseboat cruise stands out as a main activity here. This is a boat trip that doubles as a comfortable stay, allowing you to explore the area slowly. If you’re visiting Kumarakom, a houseboat trip offers a direct way to see the backwaters. Here’s a guide to what it involves.

Why Choose a Houseboat Cruise in Kumarakom?

These boats start as traditional rice boats, now updated with modern features. They include air-conditioned rooms, private bathrooms, a deck for viewing, and a TV. Options range from one-room boats to five-room ones for groups.

During the cruise, you pass through Vembanad Lake and its canals. You can see birds like kingfishers, watch local fishing, and view sunsets over the water. The trip includes sounds of water against the boat and sights near the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary.

What Happens on a Houseboat Trip

Trips usually start at noon from the Kumarakom jetty. They last 4-6 hours for a short version or overnight for more time. The crew—captain, cook, and staff—manages the details.

• Meals: Expect Kerala-style food like fried pearl spot fish, appam with stew, and prawn curry for lunch. High tea, dinner, and breakfast follow if staying overnight. Vegetarian or Jain meals are options—request them when booking.
• Activities: Relax on deck, watch birds, or learn cooking from the chef. Some boats add kayaking or stops at local shops for palm wine.
• Overnight Stays: The boat stops in a canal for the night. Mornings bring views of mist and local sounds. Longer trips head toward Alleppey for more backwater sights.

Choose an eco-friendly boat to help protect the backwaters.

When to Go

Visit from October to March for mild weather (25-32°C) and clear water after the rains. As of October 8, 2025, peak season begins—less busy than December, with full access to the area.

How to Book

• Prices: Basic overnight trips start at ₹15,000, while two-room boats for four cost about ₹17,000, covering meals. Rates change by season and boat size—use operators like Kumarakom Lake Resort or Serviette Houseboats for extras like transfers and pool use after the trip.
• Booking Steps: Check TripAdvisor for reviews (over 500 for Kumarakom boats) or book directly for discounts. Book 2-4 weeks early, especially weekends.
• What to Bring: Cotton clothes, sunscreen, binoculars, and a power bank—cell signal varies.

A houseboat trip in Kumarakom provides a full look at the backwaters. Plan your Kerala visit around it. Tag someone to join and share your top backwater highlight below.