Kerala Backwaters Tours and Tickets

There are plenty of ways to experience the Kerala Backwaters. Looking at ratings and reviews previously given by customers, these are the best tours available right now:

• Full-Day Backwater Village Punting Boat Cruise

• 4 Days Best of Kerala Tour With Private Houseboat, Sightseeing & Car

• 8 Days Kerala Private Tour (3-Star) With Munnar, Houseboat & Cab—Iris Holidays

• Cochin: Backwater Village Eco Boat Cruise With Lunch

• 4 Nights Private Deluxe Tour Cochin/Munnar/Thekkady/Houseboat

The cost to tour the Kerala Backwaters varies depending on length, with half-day punting boat cruises through the backwater villages starting at around US$30. Houseboat day tours—including lunch and pickup from Kochi—run from around US$120 to US$165, while an overnight houseboat cruise will set you back roughly US$225 to US$275. Expect to pay more for multi-day tours that combine the backwaters with other Kerala highlights, such as Munnar and Thekkady.

Yes, the Kerala Backwaters are absolutely worth visiting. The network of lakes, canals, and rivers that wind through lush villages and coconut groves is unlike anything else in India. You'll see something new whether you're drifting through narrow waterways on a traditional punting boat or watching the scenery go by from a houseboat. Many tours include lunch and hotel pickup.

Per one customer who booked the Full-Day Backwater Village Punting Boat Cruise, "This was an exceptional day trip on the backwaters. Peaceful & serene. Highly recommended. The driver, the punters, the guide, the family, and the chefs all made for such a smooth, flowing day. Lunch was superb, as was the tea and banana cumin fritters for a snack. The coconut coir rope-making and coconut mat-making was fascinating to watch. A must-do trip."

The best time of year to visit the Kerala Backwaters is during the winter months (December–February), when there's typically less rain and lower temperatures. March to May is the hottest season, which can result in off-season discounts. June through November tends to get plenty of rain, which can be beautiful, but is not always ideal for outdoor activities.

No, you cannot swim in the Kerala Backwaters—the water in much of the system is polluted with waste. If you want to swim during your trip, your best option is to book a hotel that has a pool.

Yes, guided boat tours of the Kerala Backwaters are the most popular way for visitors to explore the area. Tours are available by day or as overnight trips on houseboats, which typically include comfortable accommodation and great food.

What you wear depends somewhat on the season, but no matter when you visit, it’s wise to have clothes that will keep you cool and comfortable during periods of high humidity. It’s best to also pack sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and sunglasses. Food and water are typically included with tours, but do check ahead to be sure.

While you never know what you’ll spot on a trip through the backwaters, you’re likely to see plenty of birds and maybe some fish and other aquatic creatures. Species found in the area include kingfishers, cormorants, terns, turtles, crabs, frogs, and even otters.

It depends. Many people visit the backwaters on a day tour, and even half-day visits are available for travelers with little time. Overnight tours are a fantastic way to slow down and get a feel for the local environment and typically take place on comfortable, private houseboats with well-appointed rooms.

There are tons of fun things to do when you're done visiting the Kerala Backwaters. According to travelers, these are some of the top attractions in Kochi:

• Chinese Fishing Nets

• Paradesi Synagogue and Jew Town

• Indo-Portuguese Museum

• Mattancherry Palace

• St. Francis Church

View Viator's guide to all the best attractions in Kochi.