⌖ SHIKARA BOAT RIDES · ALLEPPEY, KERALA
Shikara Boat Cruise in Alleppey
Explore the Narrow Canals of Alappuzha
A small canopied boat that slips into village canals where big houseboats cannot go
WHY A SHIKARA RIDE
See the backwaters up close
A shikara is a small, covered passenger boat with comfortable seating. It is lighter and slower than a houseboat, which makes it perfect for exploring the quieter side of Alleppey.
Narrow Canals
Glide into small canals lined with homes, temples and coconut palms that larger houseboats cannot enter.
Covered Seating
A canopy keeps the sun off while you sit back and watch village life go by.
Short & Flexible
A shikara ride fits into a few hours, so it suits travellers on a tight schedule.
Paddy Fields
Cruise past the green paddy fields of Kuttanad, farmed below sea level.
Pair It With a Stay
Add a shikara ride before or after your houseboat cruise for a fuller backwater day.
Book Direct
Message our Alappuzha team for current timings and rates.
Tell us your date, time and number of guests.
Village canals · Paddy fields
COMBINE YOUR TRIP
Pair your shikara with a houseboat
Many guests combine a shikara ride with one of our houseboat cruises. Take a look at our day cruise and overnight packages below, and ask us to add a shikara ride to your plan.
OVERNIGHT ESCAPE1 Night / 2 Days Houseboat Cruise
Best suited for: Couples, families & first-time visitors
An introduction to Alleppey’s backwaters, with time to cruise, relax and spend a night aboard.
- — Private houseboat stay
- — Backwater cruising
- — Freshly prepared meals
- — Personal booking assistance
ROMANTIC GETAWAYHoneymoon Houseboat
Best suited for: Honeymoons & anniversaries
Begin your next chapter together, surrounded by tranquil water and coconut-fringed shores.
- — A private escape for two
- — Scenic backwater views
- — Romantic getaway options
- — Custom arrangements on request
FAMILIES & FRIENDSRoundtrip Family Fun
Best suited for: Families & groups
Bring everyone together for an easy-going journey through Kerala’s beautiful waterways.
- — Space to spend time together
- — Alleppey backwater route
- — Local cuisine on board
- — Group options on enquiry
A DAY ON THE WATERDay Cruise Alleppey Round
Best suited for: Day trips & short breaks
Enjoy a taste of houseboat life on a leisurely daytime cruise through Alleppey.
- — Daytime backwater experience
- — Scenic waterways and villages
- — Time to relax on deck
- — Ask us about your group size
ON THE WATER
What you will see
Village canals, small country boats and wide open lake views around Alappuzha.
SHIKARA ROUTES
Where a shikara can take you
Routes depend on the time you have and the water levels. Our team will suggest the best route for your ride.
Homes, temples and daily life on the water
EXPLORE
Paddy fields below sea level
DISCOVER
Open water near the boat race track
CRUISE
Wide views and sunset skies
RELAX
Cruise Land Houseboats
St Thomas Church Building, Church Road,
Pallathuruthy, Kainakary, Kainakary South,
Kerala 688501
Frequently Asked Questions
Shikara Boat Ride in Alleppey
What is a shikara boat?+
A shikara is a small covered passenger boat with seating for a few people. In Alleppey it is used to explore narrow canals and village areas that larger houseboats cannot reach.
How is a shikara different from a houseboat?+
A houseboat is a large boat with bedrooms, a kitchen and crew, used for day cruises and overnight stays. A shikara is a smaller open-sided boat for short sightseeing rides of a few hours.
How long is a shikara ride?+
Most guests choose a ride of a few hours. Tell us how much time you have and we will suggest a suitable route.
How much does a shikara ride cost?+
The price depends on the duration, the route and the number of guests. Message us on WhatsApp for current rates.
Can I combine a shikara ride with a houseboat stay?+
Yes. A shikara ride works well before or after a day cruise or an overnight houseboat stay. Ask us to plan both together.
Is a shikara ride suitable for children and elderly guests?+
Yes, it is a gentle ride. Boarding involves a small step from the bank, so tell us if anyone in your group needs help.
When is the best time to visit?+
October to March has the most pleasant weather; December and January are the busiest months, so book early. The monsoon months (June to August) are green, quiet and often better value.
How do I book a shikara ride?+
Send us your date, preferred time and number of guests on WhatsApp or call +91 97476 94443.
Book your shikara ride
Tell us your date and group size. We will share available times, the route and the price.
✓ Quick confirmation from our Alappuzha team.