Choosing a Kerala Houseboat: Alleppey vs Kumarakom

Why Kerala?

Glide through palm-fringed backwaters on a houseboat, wake up to misty tea gardens in Munnar, spot elephants at Thekkady and unwind with authentic Ayurveda on Kovalam's beaches.

When to go

The best time to visit Kerala is september to march. 5–7 nights is ideal for a first trip.

Don't miss

• Alleppey backwaters
• Munnar tea gardens
• Periyar Tiger Reserve
• Fort Kochi
• Varkala cliff

A sample plan

Day 1 — Munnar sightseeing. Eravikulam National Park (Nilgiri tahr), Mattupetty Dam, Echo Point and tea museum.

Day 2 — Spice trail to Thekkady. Drive to Thekkady; spice plantation tour and Kathakali show in the evening.

Day 3 — Periyar & drive to Alleppey. Morning Periyar boat safari, then transfer to Alleppey.

Day 4 — Backwater houseboat. Board a private houseboat — cruise the backwaters with freshly cooked Kerala meals on board.

Our experts' tip

Book at least 45 days ahead for the best hotel availability, and choose a package with private transfers if you're travelling with kids or elderly parents. Talk to a Aadhya Tours travel expert to customise any itinerary.