Embark on an extraordinary journey through Kerala’s enchanting backwaters with the "From Cochin: Day Tour of Alleppey House Boat." This captivating 10-hour excursion immerses you in the serene beauty of the "Venice of the East," Alappuzha. Indulge in a guided boat cruise, savor authentic Keralan cuisine, and learn about the local way of life. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or culture, this tour promises an unforgettable experience amidst stunning landscapes. Discover the hidden gems that await, as you explore the rich tapestry of this captivating destination.

Good To Know

Key points:

  • A 10-hour day tour from Cochin to Alleppey, featuring a 5-hour guided boat cruise through the scenic Kerala backwaters and a 1-hour lunch on a houseboat.
  • Priced at $168.82 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and complimentary water, evening tea/coffee, and transportation.
  • Opportunities to immerse in rural life, observe local activities, and enjoy authentic Malayalam cuisine prepared by the onboard chef.
  • Includes pickup from Cochin and a 1.5-hour drive to Alleppey, as well as the return trip to Cochin.
  • Overall tour rating of 3/5 based on one review, with mixed feedback on communication and organization issues from the tour organizers.

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Tour Overview and Pricing

Offering a day-long experience, the Day Tour of Alleppey House Boat from Cochin is priced at $168.82 per person.

The tour lasts 10 hours and provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Travelers can reserve their spot and pay later.

The tour includes pickup from Cochin, a 1.5-hour drive to Alappuzha, a 5-hour guided boat cruise through the backwaters, and a 1-hour lunch on the houseboat.

The tour then returns to Cochin, a 1.5-hour drive.

The main highlight is exploring Alleppey, known as the "Venice of the East", and immersing in the region’s rural life and authentic cuisine.

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Itinerary Details

The day tour begins with pickup from the traveler’s location in Cochin, whether it be their hotel, the airport, or the railway station.

After the 1.5-hour drive to Alappuzha, the group will embark on a guided boat cruise through the famous Alleppey backwaters, known as the "Venice of the East."

This 5-hour journey will allow travelers to:

  • Immerse themselves in the rural life of the picturesque region
  • Enjoy an authentic lunch prepared by the onboard chef
  • Relax on the deck and capture the essence of this unique Kerala landscape

Following the boat tour, the group will return to Cochin, completing the 10-hour day trip.

Experience Highlights

Travelers embarking on the Day Tour of Alleppey House Boat can expect to explore Kerala’s captivating backwaters and enjoy the rural life of this picturesque region.

The 5-hour guided boat cruise offers a unique opportunity to witness the daily activities of the local communities, from fishing to farming. Guests can relax on the houseboat’s deck, soaking in the serene atmosphere and capturing the essence of this "Venice of the East."

Lunch, featuring authentic Malayalam cuisine, is prepared by the onboard chef, providing a delightful culinary experience.

With the included water bottle and evening tea/coffee snacks, travelers can fully enjoy this enchanting excursion.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes hotel/airport pickup and drop-off, a delightful lunch served on the houseboat, the houseboat ride itself, a complimentary water bottle per person, and evening tea/coffee snacks.

The tour also provides AC transportation with a driver, as well as the coverage of all tolls, parking, driver allowances, and taxes. Plus, government guide fees are included in the package.

However, the tour excludes airfare/train fare, hotel accommodation, breakfast and dinner, and any beverages beyond those specified in the plan. The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or individuals over 95 years old.

  • Comfortable shoes to explore the backwaters
  • Cash for any personal expenses
  • Passport or ID for identification purposes

Important Information

Along With the inclusions mentioned, there are a few important points to consider. Guests are advised to bring their passport or ID, as well as comfortable shoes and some cash. Alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited during the tour. The day tour is not suitable for pregnant women or individuals over 95 years of age.

What To Bring What’s Not Allowed
Passport or ID Alcohol
Comfortable Shoes Drugs
Cash

The tour has received an overall rating of 3/5 based on 1 review, with both enjoyable aspects and concerns regarding communication and follow-up from the organizers.

Customer Feedback

Although the overall rating for the day tour of the Alleppey houseboat is 3/5 based on 1 review, the feedback highlights both the enjoyable aspects of the experience and concerns regarding communication and follow-up from the organizers.

Customers appreciated the scenic backwaters cruise and authentic local cuisine served on the houseboat.

However, some noted issues with:

  • Lack of clear communication from the organizers before and during the tour
  • Difficulty reaching the organizers to address concerns or questions
  • Delays and disorganization in the pickup and drop-off arrangements

Getting to Alleppey

Getting to Alleppey is straightforward. The tour includes pickup from your hotel, airport, or railway station in Cochin.

You’ll then travel by car for about 1.5 hours to reach the scenic town of Alleppey, known as the "Venice of the East." The drive provides a glimpse of the rural landscapes and Kerala’s picturesque backwaters before arriving at the starting point of the houseboat cruise.

This convenient transportation ensures a seamless journey, allowing you to sit back, relax, and fully learn about the upcoming backwater experience.

Boat Cruise Experience

The heart of this day tour lies in the captivating houseboat cruise through Alleppey’s serene backwaters.

For 5 hours, you’ll glide peacefully along the network of canals, lakes, and rivers that make up Kerala’s iconic waterways.

Along the way, you’ll:

  • Witness the lush, verdant scenery and spot local wildlife, including birds and water buffaloes.
  • Observe the rhythms of daily life in the rural communities that line the backwaters.
  • Savor a delectable lunch of authentic Keralan cuisine prepared by the onboard chef.

This immersive experience offers a unique glimpse into the tranquil, captivating world of Kerala’s backwaters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Houseboat Air-Conditioned?

The houseboat includes air-conditioning, as stated in the "Inclusions and Exclusions" section. The tour provides AC transportation to and from the houseboat, ensuring a comfortable experience throughout the day.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

No, you can’t bring your own food and drinks on the houseboat tour. The package includes lunch on the houseboat and complimentary water bottles and tea/coffee snacks. Alcoholic beverages are not allowed.

What Are the Boat’s Amenities and Facilities?

The houseboat offers basic amenities like a deck, seating areas, and a kitchen where the onboard chef prepares authentic cuisine. However, it doesn’t have extensive facilities like a bathroom or other modern conveniences.

Is There a Private Room or Shared Seating on the Boat?

The houseboats offer a mix of private and shared spaces. There are private staterooms for overnight stays, as well as an open-air deck with shared seating where guests can enjoy the scenic backwaters during the day.

Can I Customize the Itinerary or Activities?

The tour company doesn’t offer customized itineraries or activities. The day tour has a fixed schedule that includes a guided houseboat cruise, lunch, and transportation. Travelers can’t modify the preset itinerary for this particular tour package.

The Sum Up

The "From Cochin: Day Tour of Alleppey House Boat" offers a captivating exploration of Kerala’s serene backwaters. Travelers can enjoy local life, savor authentic Keralan cuisine, and enjoy a scenic boat cruise amidst stunning landscapes. With convenient hotel pickup, complimentary snacks, and a relaxing return trip, this 10-hour excursion provides a memorable day for just $168.82 per person.