Ernakulam, in Kochi, part of the Kerala region in southwest India, is a neighborhood steeped in ancient history. Kochi was originally the capital of the Kingdom of Cochin, which was supposedly established back in the 12th century. Today, Ernakulam is a thriving district where you can find some of Kochi’s top attractions and offers plenty of things to do to keep tourists busy. These include Hill Palace Museum, Thattekad Bird Sanctuary, and Kalady, where you can breathe in the fresh air and enjoy views of the Purna River, a tributary of the mighty Godavari River. Purna River is actually one of the boundaries of Ernakulam. And so, what better way to experience the district and the rest of Kochi by sailing down the river or, better yet, making a houseboat your home for your visit? Read on to see the best houseboat rentals near Ernakulam, India.
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 February 08, 2024.
1. Eco Trails Houseboats (from USD 138)
Experience the serene beauty of Kerala’s backwaters from the comfort of these spacious houseboats, where eco-friendliness meets luxury. These charming vessels offer well-furnished bedrooms and a kitchen for your culinary adventures. The spacious living/dining area is perfect for relaxation and taking in the picturesque surroundings. Additional amenities such as air conditioning and television ensure your comfort.
As you cruise along the backwaters, you’ll encounter a unique ecosystem with canals connecting charming villages. Embark on an enchanting journey through palm-fringed waterways, passing by ancient fishing nets, and lush paddy fields while marveling at the agricultural wonders of Kuttanadu.
Kottayam, Kerala, India
16.58 km (10.3 mi) from Alappuzha Light HouseAccommodates: 2
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
a comfortable double bed in our cabin with a/c overnight kept us cool so we slept very wellfrom fresh fruits to a clean and comfortable bedroom with ac for the nightRead more reviewsHost:
staff so nice too
2. Exquisite houseboat experience in Alappuzha (from USD 185)
Embark on an enchanting stay aboard this exquisite houseboat in Alappuzha. This floating paradise boasts a spacious dining area for savoring delectable meals, a fully equipped kitchen to indulge your culinary creativity, and a cozy living area to immerse yourself in the serene surroundings. Essentials such as towels, bed sheets, and toiletries are thoughtfully provided, along with entertainment options including a television with cable.
This private boat grants you exclusive access to the entire space, guaranteeing a tranquil and unforgettable stay. This gem with direct lake access, promises an indelible experience in Alappuzha.
Alappuzha, Kerala, India
3.28 km (2.1 mi) from Alappuzha Light HouseSuperhostAccommodates: 4
3. Traditional Keralan houseboat with full-board meals (from USD 199)
Purna River is not the only body of water you can explore while you’re in Kerala. There’s also serene Vembanad Lake in Alappuzha, a scenic two-hour drive away from Ernakulam. It’s here where you’ll get to board this traditional Keralan houseboat.
This spacious houseboat for rent near Ernakulam is made with native materials and features plenty of space and facilities for a group of up to eight people. There is a sun deck where you can lounge and get a tan or enjoy the scenery, and there is an air-conditioning system as well.
Alappuzha, Kerala, India
1.16 km (0.8 mi) from Alappuzha Light HouseAccommodates: 6
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
tastefully decorated with nice bathroom and hot water showerCleanliness:
rooms were surprisingly cleanthe houseboat was very clean and tidy and much better than expectedthe boat house was very clean and modern and our stay was comfortablea lovely modern clean boat the crew were very nice food excellentRead more reviewsHost:
the staff are lovely and looked after us really wellfood was amazing and crew were very friendly and helpfulall staff on the boat were so welcoming and had the perfect amount of interaction and distanceraiyaan was also very helpful in organizing a ride for us from kochi and then onwards to varkala
4. Romantic houseboat perfect for couples (from USD 84)
Planning a lovely holiday with your significant other? Explore the backwaters of Kerala aboard this gorgeous and romantic boat house near Ernakulam. This Airbnb rental operates in Kumarakom, which is about 1 hour and 30 minutes south of Ernakulam.
Specifically designed for couples, this houseboat offers complete privacy and all the essential amenities, including power, water, an air-conditioning system, a living area, and a kitchen. To preserve power, there’s a lights-off rule at 10pm, all the more reason to admire the dark night skies, far away from light pollution.
Kumarakom, Kerala, India
19.11 km (11.9 mi) from Alappuzha Light HouseAccommodates: 2
Top guest reviews
Read more reviews
5. Traditional-style luxury barge
Sail through the backwaters and explore hidden villages and towns. This large and luxurious luxury houseboat in Kerala for five people will be the perfect vessel. Anchored at Vembanad Lake in Alapuzzha, this kettuvallam-style pleasure barge has two spacious bedrooms and two bathrooms.
Go all out and enjoy the waters in style. Feast on traditional Kuttanadan cuisine as the houseboat slowly cruises along the waters. Sail past traditional fishing villages, beautiful water lilies, and ancient temples along the rivers and lake. At night, the houseboat will be docked and you’re free to explore the surrounding areas.
Alappuzha, Kerala, India
2.0 km (1.3 mi) from Alappuzha Light HouseAccommodates: 5
Top guest reviews
Amenities & 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 paperHost:
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 accommodatingRead more reviewsLocation:
if you go around allepey you will find much nice better value for money places
Have an unforgettable trip in a houseboat
Start your Kerala adventure by booking a boat house near Ernakulam and make your way to all of the attractions this region has to offer. For the perfect trip, book one of the best houseboats near Ernukalam, India, listed above.
If you want to explore more accommodation options, you can also check out the best homestays in Ernakulam for a splendid experience.
Frequently asked questions about best houseboat rentals near Ernakulam, India
History
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data
Create an account to