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KeralaCanoe & kayak tours

Our most recommended Kerala Canoe & kayak tours

Alleppey / Alappuzha Backwater Canoe (Shikara) Cruise

1. Alleppey / Alappuzha Backwater Canoe (Shikara) Cruise

Alleppey also called " Venice of the East" is an important tourist destination in India. The Backwaters of Alleppey are the most popular tourist attraction in Kerala. A houseboat cruise in these backwaters is a delightful experience. Alappuzha is a landmark between the broad Arabian sea and a web of rivers flowing into it. It is a town in Alappuzha District of Kerala state of southern India. In the early first decade of the 20th century the then Viceroy of the Indian Empire, Lord Curzon made a visit in the State to Alleppey, now Alappuzha. Fascinated by the scenic beauty of the place, in joy and amazement, he said, here nature has spent up on the land her richest bounties. In his exhilaration, he exclaimed, Alleppey, the Venice of the East. Itinerary : Pick-from Cochin Port or your hotel is at 9.00 am before the transfer to Aleppey (approximately 1.30 hours) to board the boat at 10:30 am. The boat will cruise slowly through the backwaters and village area of Aleppey with the main attraction during the cruise being the view of backwaters, paddy fields, coconut palms, and the villager's daily life. The cruise will finish around 1.30 pm and you get back to Cochin Port between 3.00 and 3.15 pm. 

Kerala: Backwater Village Private Customized Kayaking Tour

2. Kerala: Backwater Village Private Customized Kayaking Tour

Welcome to the Backwater Kayaking Tour in Kerala, a unique and immersive experience that allows you to explore the serene backwaters of Alleppey and the charming Kainakary Village. Get ready for an unforgettable journey through picturesque rivers, lakes, and interconnected canals, where you'll witness the rich local flora and fauna, immerse yourself in the local way of life, and create memories to last a lifetime. Our tour begins in Alleppey, known as the Venice of the East for its intricate network of backwaters. You'll have the opportunity to customize your tour based on your specific interests and schedule, ensuring a personalized and enriching experience. We start by exploring Kainakary Village, a hidden gem nestled amidst the backwaters. Paddle your kayak through the calm waters, covering a distance of 6 to 9 kilometers, as you soak in the tranquility of the surroundings. Marvel at the lush greenery, observe the diverse birdlife, and spot local flora and fauna along the way. As you navigate through the interconnected canals, you'll have the chance to witness the local way of life and experience the rich culture of the region. Interact with the friendly villagers, learn about their traditions, and gain insights into their daily activities. Paddle along vast paddy fields, local temples and churches, witness fishing, mussel harvesting and duck farming, wave to children going to school in boat, women washing clothes by the small waterfront houses, local ferry and houseboats. During the tour, you can also choose to visit a toddy shop, where you can taste the local alcoholic beverage made from the sap of coconut trees. This optional experience offers a glimpse into the local culinary traditions and a chance to engage with the friendly locals. For the adventurous souls, there is an option to indulge in open water swimming in the backwaters, providing a refreshing and invigorating experience. Feel the cool water against your skin and enjoy the serenity of the surroundings as you float in the backwaters. Our knowledgeable and experienced guides will accompany you throughout the tour, sharing interesting insights about the local ecology, culture, and history of the region. They will ensure your safety and provide assistance whenever needed, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of the backwaters. Whether you're a nature lover, cultural enthusiast, or adventure seeker, the Backwater Kayaking Tour in Kerala offers a truly customizable experience tailored to your preferences. Explore at your own pace, take in the breathtaking views, and create memories that will stay with you long after the tour concludes. So, get ready to embark on a remarkable journey through the backwaters of Kerala, where every paddle stroke will bring you closer to the soul of this enchanting land.

From Kochi Port: Backwater Canoe and Fort Kochi Tour

3. From Kochi Port: Backwater Canoe and Fort Kochi Tour

Marvel at the breathtaking scenery of the Allepey region from the comfort of a traditional riverboat on this shore excursion. After getting picked up from the cruise ship docks at Kochi Port, begin the 1.5-hour journey to Alleppey where you will board your Shikara (motorized canoe). Then, begin your journey, cruising slowly through the vast network of backwaters.  Discover for yourself why Alleppey has often been described as the Venice of the East. Venture through village areas and the landscape of the Alappuzha to marvel at lush vegetation, paddy fields, coconut palms, and much more.  Once back on dry land, sit down to a delicious vegetarian lunch which showcases the best of Keralan cuisine before journeying to the serene Fort Kochi area. Marvel at the Cheena Vala (Chinese fishing nets) in the Arabian Sea, and see other attractions of the region. At the end of your tour, get dropped off back at the port in time for your cruise ship departure. Choose to depart in the morning or afternoon. The morning departure option includes lunch and the afternoon departure option includes snacks with tea or coffee (lunch is not included in this option).

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What people are saying about Kerala

Highly recommend this cruise. Is good value for money compared to house-boat tours for a 1 day tour, while the boat is smaller you still have the benefit of being in a private group. Tomy was a great guide, he was very informative about the the area including the history and current lifestyle of the locals. We stopped off at rice paddys and got to drink fresh coconut. All in all a fantastic relaxing day.

Excellent trip! Best boat to go by as wasn’t too big and could go down the smaller backwaters. Also being a private tour it was the best value for money! Guide was very informative Definitely recommend this trip!!

Mr. Babu was a very kind and a safe driver and the boat and its captain were also lovely. I'm a solo female traveler and I am happy I chose this option to see a bit of the amazing Kerala backwaters.

We had a great and flexible guide who shared about growing up in the backwaters. He customized the journey for us and we got a lot more out of it than the initial description. It was a joy.

Very knowledgeable guide Shaji Sebastian and driver Anthoni guarantee a top day in Kerala and Cochin. Highly recommended!