Alleppey displays a wide variety of boats utilised for various purposes, showcasing the vital role of water transportation. Houseboat cruises, complete with on-board meals, are a popular option. These converted cargo boats now offer rooms with attached toilets, living areas, and dining spaces. However, due to their large size, they cannot get close to the villages. For those eager to explore the backwaters and experience local life up close during their Kerala tour, Shikara boats present an interesting alternative.
Shikara boats, with small motors and open sides, are a popular way to experience the backwaters. They can navigate even the narrowest canals, piloted by a local boatman from the stern. These boats provide shade with a rooftop and offer comfortable seating, and some even have reclining beds.
The highlight of these boat trips is observing the local way of life, which is especially captivating for those unaccustomed to such landscapes. Each group will have its own boat, and you'll be surrounded by hundreds of others. People will be working, commuting, or enjoying leisure time just like you. You'll also see vast paddy fields—this is a unique region where paddy cultivation occurs below sea level.
The shikara boat's narrow and flexible design allows it to navigate close to the backwater banks, providing access to local establishments like toddy shops and restaurants serving fresh seafood with local marinations. Lunch would be on banana leaf and it would be a very local lunch with curries, veggies and fish. Toddy, a naturally brewed beverage extracted from coconut tree sap, is recommended in small amounts due to its potentially strong effect.
For an optimal experience, select a smaller shikara boat that can accommodate up to 7 guests. These boats can navigate narrower canals and reach remote areas that larger boats cannot access. During your ride, you may encounter stops offering speed boat rides and local snacks, which you can choose to enjoy at your leisure.
The ideal duration for a shikara boat cruise is 2 to 3 hours, as the experience can become less enjoyable after this time. The best time of day for the cruise is either morning or evening, as the backwaters can get very humid during midday and generally dry and hot during the winter months from October to February. The entire program should ideally be completed within 3 hours.
Government regulations require houseboats to dock by evening and stay docked until the next morning. This allows local fishermen to fish uninterrupted overnight, and there can be no exceptions to this rule.
If you prefer a more flexible schedule, consider a Shikara boat cruise combined with a resort stay. This option combines the Shikara cruise experience with time to enjoy Alleppey's beaches, relax at the resort, and explore the town's shops and sights.
For more information and personalised recommendations, contact your Kerala tour operator. Get in touch with us over whatsapp at wa.me/919400946800 for some quick responses regarding your Kerala tour program.
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