• Types of Boats: Houseboats, Motorboats, Shikaras
• Price: ₹7,000 – ₹10,000 per day for houseboats; ₹500 – ₹1,000 per hour for Shikaras and motorboats
• Best Time to Visit: October to March

If you want a longer, more scenic boat ride, Kollam is the perfect choice.

4. Kochi (Cochin)

Kochi is a mix of the old and new, with short boat trips, ferry rides, and houseboats. You can see historical places like Fort Kochi from the water.

• Types of Boats: Houseboats, Speedboats, Ferries
• Price: ₹600 – ₹1,000 for boat rides; ferries are cheaper (₹20 – ₹100 for short trips)
• Best Time to Visit: September to February

Kochi offers affordable boat rides and is great for seeing both nature and history.

5. Thekkady (Periyar Lake)

Thekkady is famous for its wildlife and offers boat rides on Periyar Lake inside the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. You may even spot elephants and other animals during the ride.

• Types of Boats: Government-run motorboats
• Price: ₹250 – ₹300 per person for a 2-hour ride
• Best Time to Visit: October to April

Thekkady’s boat rides are perfect for nature lovers and those who want to see wildlife up close.

Types of Boats in Kerala

1. Houseboats: These are large boats with rooms, bathrooms, and dining areas. They are perfect for full-day or overnight stays and come with meals.
2. Shikaras: Small traditional boats, usually with a roof, ideal for short rides. They are cheaper than houseboats but still offer great views.
3. Motorboats: These boats are faster and can be rented by the hour. They are good for quick trips on the backwaters or lakes.
4. Canoes: Small, manually rowed boats, perfect for exploring narrow canals. Canoes offer a peaceful and close-to-nature experience.
5. Ferries: Used mostly by locals for transport, ferries are the cheapest option for short boat trips.

Boating Prices in Kerala

• Houseboats: ₹7,000 to ₹12,000 per day, including food. The price depends on the size and facilities of the houseboat.
• Shikaras and Motorboats: ₹500 to ₹1,000 per hour. They are ideal for shorter rides.
• Canoes: ₹300 to ₹500 per hour for a simple, peaceful ride.
• Ferries: ₹20 to ₹100 for short rides. These are mainly used for local transportation.

Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Boating Experience

1. Book Early: If you’re visiting during the busy season (August to March), book your boat in advance to get the best option.
2. Choose the Right Boat: Houseboats are best for full-day or overnight trips, while Shikaras and motorboats are better for short rides.
3. Check the Weather: Avoid boating during the rainy season (June to August) as it can be risky.
4. Dress Comfortably: Wear light, comfortable clothes, and bring sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
5. Carry Water and Snacks: While houseboats usually provide meals, it’s good to carry some water and snacks, especially for shorter boat rides.
6. Bring a Camera: The views are breathtaking, so bring a camera or smartphone to capture the beauty of Kerala’s backwaters.
7. Respect Nature: Kerala’s backwaters are home to many birds and animals. Don’t litter, and be respectful of the environment.

Conclusion

Boating in Kerala is a peaceful and enjoyable way to explore the natural beauty of the state. Whether you want a luxurious houseboat experience in Alleppey or a short Shikara ride in Kumarakom, there’s something for everyone. With a range of options and affordable prices, boating in Kerala is an experience you don’t want to miss. So, plan your trip, pick the right boat, and enjoy the stunning scenery of Kerala’s backwaters.