Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha, draws tourists annually for its backwaters alone. In fact, it earned the moniker “Venice of the East” for its beautiful canals and stunning houseboats. These houseboats act like floating 5-star resorts with excellent hospitality and have become attractions themselves over time. Similar to the fabulous Airbnb vacation rentals in Alleppey, our recommendations of houseboats will provide you with an equally comfortable stay as well as an enchanting experience through a boat trip. To get a chance to explore the tranquil backwaters and escape the daily grind, take a break from the resorts with a pool and book a houseboat instead. Continue reading to find out more about the best houseboat rentals in Alleppey, Kerala, India.
Tip from tour guide
The backwaters in Kerela are a network of lakes, lagoons, rivers, and a cluster of islands. It is similar to the bayous in the USA, specifically in Louisiana. These canals are natural features found in Kerala. After Indian independence, the government reclaimed the land and distributed it to the impoverished.
This region is the lowest point in the world where rice cultivation takes place. The water often becomes stagnant in the paddy fields and needs to be drained. Water hyacinth, also known as seaweed, was introduced by the British to adorn their lakes. However, it has now become a major problem as it clogs the canals.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on October 18, 2025.
1. Fennel (from USD 710)
This houseboat in Alappuzha offers an authentic experience of sailing inside a kettuvallam for six guests. The air-conditioned interiors of the three-bedroom houseboat are set in an aesthetic that is indisputably Indian; luxurious furnishings blend very well with wooden floorings and vintage décor. Guests can soak in the picturesque sights of the backwaters and swaying palms from the floor-to-ceiling windows while savoring their morning cup of coffee on the cozy couch.
Stay connected with loved ones back home with the aid of an internet connection furnished inside the houseboat. When it comes to food, you can relish a tangy prawn curry or beef roast served by the chef on board every day of your stay here.
Alappuzha, Kerala, India
4.37 km (2.8 mi) from Punnamada LakeAccommodates: 6
Top guest reviews
Host:
the staff anish majeesh and sunil were so kind and efficientthe boat staff was extremely friendly and helpfulthe staff on board was very courteous & helpful during our stayLocation:
i would recommend clarifying and researching the road/route to the houseboat location well in advanceRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
it was pretty humid when we visited (december) so the air conditioning was a welcome relief
2. Angel sail over backwaters (from USD 339)
This Alappuzha boathouse for six offers a distinct backwater experience. Besides the boat cruise, guests can also enjoy going on a village walk if they wish once the boat docks. Like the other houseboats, the air conditioning is turned on from 9 am to 6 pm. However, round-the-clock air conditioning services can be arranged at an additional cost. Aside from a fully equipped kitchen, the property also provides a fruit basket or candlelit dinner services on board for an added fee.
Alappuzha, Kerala, India
520 meters (0.4 ft) from Punnamada LakeAccommodates: 4
Top guest reviews
Read more reviewsHost:
the staff were attentive but kept out of site for us out really enjoy the privacy of the boatvery good and responsive host
3. Kanila heritage houseboat (from 164 USD)
This comfortable houseboat is docked not far away from the bus and train stations, although guests are welcome to request pick-up if they wish. They also have the relative freedom to savor dishes of their choice from the food menu provided by the boat owner. During your stay, you’ll be indulging your palate with traditional Indian cuisine and feasting your eyes with lake views featuring coconut trees that sprung up on the waters.
Kanila heritage houseboat
Price: from 164 USD
Number of Guests: 4
4. Genesis houseboats (from USD 157)
Able to accommodate up to three people, this cheap houseboat in Alleppey is manned by helpful staff who would go above and beyond the line of duty in order to offer special services to guests (including but not limited to serving vegetarian food and ensuring that the spectacular interior of the boat is clean at all times). For a nice experience, WiFi and cable TV are the modern amenities ensured available on-site.
Alappuzha, Kerala, India
5.69 km (3.6 mi) from Punnamada LakeSuperhost
Accommodates: 3
Top guest reviews
Read more reviewsHost:
kevin was a kind host who was always available on phonestaff was very helpful caring even they extended their attention for serving vegetarian foodthe host was very kind i had asked for some special arrangements which they did
5. Luxury floating houseboat cruise (from USD 600)
One of the best luxury houseboats in Alleppey, this Airbnb not only offers a backwater cruise, which is among the best things to do in Alappuzha, and overnight accommodation on board but also features music and indoor games to keep guests amused during their stay. Among the standard facilities on the boat is WiFi so you can upload the romantic experience to your social media feed. For an additional fee, they can also enjoy going on a canoe ride and a campfire, as well as live cultural shows.
Alappuzha, Kerala, India
687 meters (0.5 ft) from Punnamada LakeAccommodates: 3
Top guest reviews
Host:
the staffs were courteous and responsivehosts were great and accommodativethe crew was super nice and helpfulloved the spacious room the food the hosts onboardthe staff was very hospitable our house-boat was pretty clean and the decor was amazingLocation:
we enjoyed a short village walk in the evening when boat halted at some villageCleanliness:
rooms were very clean free from mosquitoesRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
however the listing advertised free wifi indoor games and fishing that we did not find on our boat
6. Amrutham houseboats (from USD 371)
Couples on holiday in Alleppey will appreciate this one-bedroom houseboat in Alleppey, which caters specifically to a maximum of two guests at a time. The boat operator starts the tour at noon and provides guests with welcome drinks. They are then taken on a serene backwater trip via a water cruise before docking for the night at a local village, where visitors are given the opportunity to do some land-based sightseeing. Rates are already inclusive of all meals and access to the entire boat.
Kumarakom, Kerala, India
16.43 km (10.3 mi) from Punnamada LakeAccommodates: 2
Top guest reviews
Read more reviewsHost:
host was very good with great comms & so responsive & easy to arrange the trip
7. Two-bedroom houseboat perfect for parties (from USD 201)
Nestled on the banks of Vembanad Lake, this two-bedroom backwater destination guarantees great hospitality and a fun time throughout your stay. With a sun deck, living area, music system, and conference facility on the upper deck, this houseboat is a perfect place to host parties and gatherings. Besides its other basic amenities, this houseboat combines privacy, comfort, and warmth for your ultimate relaxation.
Finally, this beautiful houseboat is close to a number of shops, spas, restaurants, and attractions in Kumarakom, including Kodianthara Heritage Home.
Kumarakom, Kerala, India
13.68 km (8.5 mi) from Punnamada LakeAccommodates: 6
Top guest reviews
Read more reviewsHost:
very warm and sweet hostcrispin is a very good hostthe rooms are very clean and support staff are at the best when it comes to hospitality
8. Double bedroom houseboat for five people (from USD 174)
This option comes with a fully-packed itinerary, where guests can enjoy cruising the backwaters of Alleppey - and spot verdant rice paddies, coconut groves, temples, and local homes - and spending the night on the houseboat itself. Traditional food and drinks are offered to guests while on board, although they can also purchase fresh seafood from the fisherfolk and have them prepared by the chef on the boat. For an additional fee, guests can make arrangements for airport transfers from Cochin International Airport.
Alappuzha, Kerala, India
1.77 km (1.1 mi) from Punnamada LakeAccommodates: 5
Top guest reviews
Host:
amazing seacruise on the backwaters with two nice hostsowner stays in cochin and his presence would have been much appreciatedvargese chettai was really great and accommodatingLocation:
if you go around allepey you will find much nice better value for money placesRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
the deck seating is comfortable for 2 maybe 3the bed linen have definitely seen better daysoverall not bad lots of mosquitoes take bug spray and toilet paper
9. Overnight private houseboat in Alleppey (from USD 148)
This Alappuzha houseboat radiating a rustic charm is inclusive of a day trip that takes guests to rice paddies and coconut palms. The amazing staff is able to provide additional services such as vegetarian meals as long as they are notified in advance. The spacious and spectacular interior has enough luggage storage and is appointed with air conditioning, which is turned on from 10 pm to 6 am. Do note that guests are required to present their visa or passport to check-in.
Kainakary South, Kerala, India
4.19 km (2.7 mi) from Punnamada LakeAccommodates: 2
10. Alleppey houseboat (from USD 98)
Depending on the party size, arrangements can be made for this type of boat house. The fleet of houseboats comprises four to seven-bedroom options that can accommodate up to two guests per room. These deluxe houseboats, although budget accommodation options, have air conditioning services that are turned on from 9 pm to 6 am. Those who want to beat the heat and have an amazing experience can get a premium houseboat, which has round-the-clock air conditioning. Rates are inclusive of meals and snacks.
Allapuzha, Kerala, India
11.46 km (7.2 mi) from Punnamada Lake
11. Floating cottage on the shores of Vembanad Lake (from USD 32)
This rental is docked on the shores of Vembanad Lake, which is the largest lake in the state of Kerala. Guests can take the canoe cottage to explore the vicinity to catch sight of a wide variety of wildlife along the narrow canals and lush mangroves. Rates are inclusive of breakfast. If you’re wondering about the Alleppey boathouse’ average price, the cost of this rental is quite affordable considering the number of key amenities and the quality of houseboat service available on board.
Alappuzha, Kerala, India
3.03 km (1.9 mi) from Punnamada Lake
12. Three-bedroom houseboat, backwater tour in Alleppey (from USD 317)
With this Alleppey boathouse rental, you get two for the price of one, as you not only get accommodation, you also get a guide to point out the notable attractions in the backwaters of Alleppey. Each bedroom comes with standard facilities including a private balcony and restroom. Environmental advocates will appreciate the fact that practically every part of this luxury houseboat - from its build to its furnishings - is eco-friendly. Any booking is already inclusive of meals.
4.43 km (2.8 mi) from Punnamada Lake
Float along the backwaters of Alleppey
The Alleppey houseboats are not just quirky accommodations in Kerala but also popular destinations. Renting one of these will allow you to explore the famous backwaters of Alleppey and have a taste of village life. Doing so will also allow you to experience more than what a day cruise can offer and explore the other attractions in the vicinity, including the beaches and lagoons. And in Alleppey, boathouse rentals with reasonable prices are aplenty on Airbnb. So, rent one of these unique stays and have an authentic houseboat trip in one of the oldest yet unspoiled towns in India.
Frequently asked questions about houseboat rentals in Alleppey, Kerala, India
History
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dianora .over 2 years ago
I recently had the pleasure of experiencing the enchanting world of houseboats in Alleppey, and I must say it was a truly magical journey. The tranquil backwaters, lush greenery, and the unique lifestyle offered by these floating abodes create an unforgettable experience.
I booked my houseboat through [link removed] and I must say they offered the best price compared to other options in Alleppey. Their service was impeccable, and the seamless booking process added to the overall positive experience.
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