Kochi Private Tour: Kerala Backwater Shikara (Shaded Canoe Boat) Day Cruise

Set out on a captivating journey through Kerala’s enchanting backwaters with a private Kochi tour featuring a scenic Shikara day cruise. Glide effortlessly across serene waterways lined with swaying coconut palms and vibrant villages, enjoying the daily lives of local communities. This three-hour experience offers breathtaking vistas of lush rice paddies and unique locations accessible only by water, providing a glimpse into the cultural richness of this captivating region. With convenient hotel pickup and a personalized approach, this tour promises to be an unforgettable exploration of Kerala’s natural beauty. What secrets will the backwaters unveil?

This experience made our list of the 7 Best Canoe And Kayak Experiences In Kochi.

Key Points

• Scenic Kerala backwater day cruise in Alleppey, also known as the "Venice of the East," using a traditional Shikara (Indian canoe).
• Three-hour journey showcasing rural life and stunning landscapes along Kerala’s serene waterways, with coconut palms lining the banks.
• Insight into the daily routines and traditions of riverside communities, with access to breathtaking locations only reachable by water.
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, but lunch is not provided; options for stops available during the tour.
• Not wheelchair accessible and not recommended for travelers with back problems due to the seating in the traditional Shikara.

Tour Overview

This Kochi Private Tour offers a scenic Kerala backwater day cruise, providing visitors a unique opportunity to explore the palm-fringed waterways of Alleppey, often called the "Venice of the East".

Guests will embark on a traditional Shikara (Indian canoe) and drift past picturesque villages, lush rice paddies, and coconut palms.

The three-hour cruise offers an insightful look into the rural life and stunning landscapes of Kerala that are only accessible by water.

With hotel pickup and drop-off included, this private tour ensures a seamless and memorable experience for travelers seeking to enjoy the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Kerala backwaters.

Highlights of the Cruise

The scenic backwater cruise takes travelers on a captivating journey through Alleppey’s palm-fringed waterways. As the traditional Shikara (Indian canoe) glides peacefully, passengers are treated to a unique glimpse into Kerala’s rural life. The cruise highlights include:

Highlight	Description
Coconut Palms	Rows of swaying coconut palms lining the serene waterways
Picturesque Villages	Charming villages with colorful houses and friendly locals
Lush Rice Paddies	Expansive green rice fields stretching to the horizon
Insight into Rural Life	Observe the daily routines and traditions of Kerala’s riverside communities
Stunning Locations	Access breathtaking spots only accessible by water

The backwater cruise offers a unique opportunity to take in Kerala’s natural beauty and explore the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The Kochi Private Tour: Kerala Backwater Day Cruise includes several key amenities to ensure a comfortable and convenient experience.

The tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned private vehicle, covering areas like Fort Cochin, Wellingdon Island, Kundanoor, and Ernakulam MG Road.

The highlight is the non-AC Shikara cruise, allowing you to glide through the picturesque palm-fringed waterways.

While lunch isn’t included, an option to arrange a stop is available, and food, drinks, and alcoholic beverages can be purchased during the tour.

Please note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems.

Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Meeting Point and Pickup

Where will travelers be picked up for the Kochi Private Tour: Kerala Backwater Day Cruise?

Pickup is available from hotels, homestays, or the cruise port in Cochin, Alleppey, or Mararikulam.

Travelers must specify their pickup location at the time of booking.

Confirmation of the pickup details will be provided within 48 hours of the tour, subject to availability.

Special pickup requirements should be mentioned during booking.

It’s important to note that the tour is a private experience, so only your group will participate.

With pickup and drop-off included, the Kerala Backwater Shikara Day Cruise offers a convenient and immersive way to explore the scenic waterways.

Additional Information

Although not wheelchair accessible, the Kochi Private Tour: Kerala Backwater Day Cruise is suitable for most travelers.

It’s not recommended for those with back problems, as the traditional Shikara (canoe) may not provide optimal comfort.

Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

This private tour ensures that only your group will participate, allowing for a personalized experience.

The tour price varies depending on the group size, starting from €66.14.

Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour, and the "Reserve Now and Pay Later" option is available.

Accessibility and Restrictions

One key consideration for this tour is its accessibility. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so it may not be suitable for travelers with mobility issues.

Plus, it isn’t recommended for those with back problems, as the seating in the traditional Shikara canoe may not provide adequate support.

Children must be accompanied by an adult, ensuring their safety and enjoyment throughout the experience.

Despite these restrictions, the tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the serene Kerala backwaters, accessible only by water, providing a glimpse into the rural life of the region.

Travelers should keep these accessibility and safety considerations in mind when booking this private Kochi tour.

Pricing and Cancellation

The Kochi Private Tour: Kerala Backwater Day Cruise is priced from €66.14 per person, with the exact cost varying based on the group size.

This private tour offers flexibility, as travelers can reserve now and pay later. Plus, the tour provider offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, providing customers with the peace of mind to plan their trip.

The pricing includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as the non-AC Shikara (canoe) cruise, ensuring a hassle-free and seamless experience.

Customers can also opt to arrange a lunch stop during the tour, with food, drinks, and alcoholic beverages available for purchase.

Guest Reviews

Glowing guest reviews underscore the positive experiences of travelers on the Kochi Private Tour: Kerala Backwater Day Cruise.

With a 5.0 rating based on a single review, the tour seems to have left a lasting impression. The reviewer highlighted the timely pickup, enjoyable canoe ride, and recommendation to try the South Indian thali at a village restaurant.

The private nature of the tour, allowing participants to explore the stunning backwaters at their own pace, is likely a key draw.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Bring on the Cruise?

For the cruise, guests should bring sun protection like hats and sunscreen, comfortable clothing, insect repellent, and any snacks or beverages they’d like to enjoy during the scenic journey through the peaceful Kerala backwaters.

Can I Customize the Cruise Itinerary?

Yes, the tour can be customized. Guests can work with the tour provider to adjust the itinerary and include additional stops or activities based on their interests and preferences, subject to availability and any applicable fees.

Are Life Jackets Provided on the Shikara?

Yes, life jackets are typically provided for passengers on the shikara (boat) during the Kerala backwater cruise. The tour operator ensures the safety of participants by making life jackets available throughout the duration of the scenic boat ride.

Can I Take Pictures or Videos During the Cruise?

Yes, passengers are generally allowed to take pictures and videos during the cruise. However, it’s important to be respectful of the local community and ask for permission before photographing individuals or private property.

Are There Any Restrictions on Personal Items?

There are typically no restrictions on personal items during the cruise, though visitors should avoid bringing bulky or heavy items. Camera equipment, phones, and small bags are generally permitted to capture the scenic waterways.

Recap

This Kochi private tour offers a serene and enchanting way to experience Kerala’s picturesque backwaters. Guests will glide through tranquil waterways lined with coconut palms, witnessing the daily lives of local communities. With convenient hotel pickup and a personalized experience, this three-hour cruise is perfect for those seeking to enjoy the cultural richness of Kerala at their own pace.