Shikara boating in alleppey
Shikara boating offers one of the most serene, flexible, and authentic ways to explore the backwaters of Alleppey (Alappuzha). Unlike large houseboats, motor-driven Shikara boats feature an open-sided design with comfortable, cushioned seating or reclined sofas under a shaded roof, allowing you to glide easily into narrow, shallow village canals.
Core Details & Packages
- Operating Hours: Rides run daily from 6:00 AM to 6:30 PM.
Capacity: Standard Shikaras seat 2 to 8 people comfortably for private tours. Larger options exist for groups of up to 25–40.
Pricing Rates: Rates generally start around ₹800 – ₹1,200 per hour for up to 4–5 passengers. Rates fluctuate slightly depending on peak season, weekends, and route length.
Key Routes & Stops: Typically boards from Punnamada Jetty / Rajiv Jetty. Key sights include the Nehru Trophy Boat Race course, Punnamada Lake, Kattendren Canal, SAI sports complex, and quiet village interiors.
Popular Cruise Types
- Sunrise Cruise (6:00 AM – 8:30 AM): Calm water, cool morning air, local birdlife, and early morning village activity.
Day / Village Canal Cruise (Flexible daytime hours): Best for exploring narrow interior canals where houseboats cannot pass.
Sunset Cruise (4:00 PM – 6:30 PM): Sweeping views across open lakes like Vembanad and Punnamada as the sun sets.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How is a Shikara different from a Houseboat?
A Shikara is a smaller, open-sided seating boat used primarily for daytime cruising (2 to 5 hours). Houseboats are large floating structures designed for full-day or overnight stays with bedrooms and onboard dining. Shikaras can access narrow village canals that houseboats are too wide or deep to enter.
Q2: Is food served on board the Shikara?
Full meal preparation is generally not done on small Shikaras. Instead, drivers stop at waterfront restaurants, local fish stalls, or backwater toddy shops along the route where you can enjoy traditional Kerala dishes and fresh seafood. Snacks and beverages can be carried on board.
Q3: Are Shikara rides private or shared?
Most operators offer private rides reserved exclusively for your family or group. Shared rides are uncommon due to varying group schedules and route preferences.
Q4: How long should I book a Shikara for?
A 3-hour to 4-hour cruise is recommended. A 2-hour trip mainly covers the main open channels, while 3 to 4 hours gives enough time to deeply explore the inner village canals and stop for lunch or refreshments.
Q5: Are onboard toilet facilities available?
Standard small Shikaras do not have onboard toilets. However, toilet breaks are arranged at lakeside restaurants/rest stops along the route. Some larger Shikara variants (for 15+ passengers) come equipped with built-in restrooms.
Q6: Is safety equipment provided?
Yes, all registered tourism Shikaras carry life jackets and basic safety gear for passengers.