Houseboat Cruises from Varkala
Experience Kerala's Famous Backwaters in Alleppey & Kollam
11 Hours
₹6,500 / person
Alleppey or Kollam Backwaters, Kerala
Tour General Information
Quick Facts
Experience Description
Villa Lemon offers carefully selected houseboat experiences from both Alleppey and Kollam, allowing you to choose the destination that best suits your travel style. Alleppey is best for first-time visitors, honeymoon couples, and classic canal cruising. Kollam is best for nature lovers, peaceful and less crowded cruises, bird watching, and exploring Ashtamudi Lake.
Discover the timeless beauty of Kerala's backwaters with our Houseboat Cruises from Varkala. Whether you choose the vibrant canals of Alleppey (Alappuzha) or the peaceful waters of Kollam's Ashtamudi Lake, every cruise offers a unique opportunity to experience Kerala's breathtaking landscapes, traditional village life, delicious local cuisine, and world-famous houseboat hospitality.
A Kerala houseboat cruise is more than a sightseeing trip—it's a journey through tranquil waterways, lush coconut groves, paddy fields, fishing villages, and mangrove forests aboard a beautifully crafted traditional Kettuvallam. Relax on the sun deck, enjoy freshly prepared Kerala meals, and watch everyday life unfold along the banks as your houseboat glides through the backwaters.
Things to Bring
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- Camera with spare battery
- Personal medications
Chat with local coordinator
Direct booking provides the most customizable experience details. Contact us on WhatsApp to confirm timing.
🛡️ Cancellation: • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure. • Cancellations made within 24 hours of the scheduled cruise are non-refundable. • Houseboat schedules may change due to weather, water conditions, or operational reasons. • If Villa Lemon or the houseboat operator cancels the cruise, guests will receive a full refund or the option to reschedule.
🚗 Pickup: Pickup is available from Villa Lemon and all hotels, resorts, homestays, and Airbnb accommodations within Varkala. Please be ready at your pickup location at least 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
Tour Highlights
Itinerary
Departure
Private AC pick up from Villa Lemon towards Alleppey or Kollam.
Boarding
Welcome drink and check-in onboard your private houseboat.
Morning Cruise
Glide past coconut groves, village shores, and watch local life.
Lunch
Onboard chef serves hot traditional Kerala lunch.
Afternoon Cruise
Explore deep backwater canals, birdwatching, and tea snacks.
Checkout
Check out from houseboat, meet your driver.
Return
Return private transfer back to Varkala.
Arrival
Arrival back at Villa Lemon.
• Cruise duration depends on the selected package (day or overnight). • Carry sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and comfortable clothing. • Traditional Kerala meals are included in most packages. • Private and shared houseboats are available. • Overnight cruises include private accommodation onboard. • Houseboat routes may vary depending on water levels and weather conditions. • Photography opportunities are available throughout the cruise. • Please inform us in advance of any dietary requirements or special requests. • Pickup and drop-off timings may vary depending on your selected destination (Alleppey or Kollam).
Why Guests Love Us
Fresh Local Food
Enjoy authentic local pearl spot fish fry and Kerala red rice cooked fresh by the onboard chef.
Top-tier Houseboats
We collaborate with safe, certified, premium houseboat operators for maximum hygiene and comfort.
Tour Guidelines & Policies
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure. • Cancellations made within 24 hours of the scheduled cruise are non-refundable. • Houseboat schedules may change due to weather, water conditions, or operational reasons. • If Villa Lemon or the houseboat operator cancels the cruise, guests will receive a full refund or the option to reschedule.
• Approved refunds are processed within 5–7 business days. • Refunds are credited to the original payment method. • No refunds will be provided for missed departures or no-shows. • Weather-related cancellations by the operator qualify for a full refund or an alternative booking date.
Pickup is available from Villa Lemon and all hotels, resorts, homestays, and Airbnb accommodations within Varkala. Please be ready at your pickup location at least 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
After completing your houseboat cruise, guests will be comfortably transferred back to Villa Lemon or their original pickup location in Varkala.
Inclusions
- Hotel pickup and drop-off from Varkala
- Private transportation
- Houseboat cruise
- Welcome drink & traditional Kerala lunch
- Onboard crew & guide support
- Drinking water
Exclusions
- Personal expenses
- Optional activities
- Additional beverages
- Tips and gratuities
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: Alleppey or Kollam?+
Alleppey offers the classic narrow canal network. Kollam offers a much quieter, open lake experience.
Are meals included?+
Yes, a traditional Kerala lunch and evening tea are cooked fresh and served onboard.
Explore Nearby
Landmark proximity from experience location
