Alleppey — glide through Kerala's backwaters
Palm-fringed canals, floating villages, and a houseboat deck all to yourself.
Known as the Venice of the East, Alleppey's endless network of lagoons and canals is best explored the slow way — aboard a traditional Kettuvallam houseboat, drifting past paddy fields and coconut groves.
Malabar Online arranges private houseboat stays with home-cooked Kerala meals, sunset views from your own deck, and village stops along the way, so every trip feels personal and unhurried.
Why visit
Private houseboat stays
Sleep aboard a traditional Kettuvallam with your own crew, kitchen, and open-air deck.
Endless backwaters
Cruise through 900km of interconnected lakes, canals, and rivers lined with coconut palms.
Golden hour on the water
Watch the sun dip behind the palms from your own deck — one of Kerala's most iconic views.
Weather guide
Know what to pack and expect, season by season.
Dec – Feb: Cool & Dry
20°C – 30°CThe most comfortable season — calm backwaters, low humidity, and clear skies perfect for houseboat cruising.
Mar – May: Hot & Humid
26°C – 35°CWarm and humid days — early morning or evening cruises are cooler, and your houseboat deck stays breezy.
Jun – Sep: Monsoon
24°C – 30°CLush green canals and dramatic showers — a beautiful, quieter time to cruise, with covered houseboat decks.
Local Festivals & Events
Time your trip around these celebrations for a truly memorable experience.
Nehru Trophy Boat Race
Second Saturday of AugustThousands gather along the Alleppey backwaters to watch snake boats race in one of Kerala's most thrilling spectacles.
Onam Harvest Festival
Aug – SepHouseboats and villages along the backwaters come alive with flower decorations, feasts, and cultural performances.
Alleppey Backwater Christmas & New Year Carnival
Dec – JanIlluminated houseboats, beach concerts, and festive markets line the backwaters through the holiday season.
Getting here
Approximate travel time and distance from nearby cities.
Where to stay nearby
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Tour packages
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