Activities in Alappuzha (Alleppey)
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Houseboat
Renting a houseboat designed like a kettuvallam (rice barge) could be one of your most expensive experiences in India, but it's worth every darned rupee. Drifting through quiet canals lined with coconut palms, eating deliciously authentic Keralan food, meeting local villagers and sleeping on the water under a galaxy of stars - it's a world away from the clamour of India.
Houseboats cater for groups (up to eight bunks) or couples (one or two double bedrooms). Food (and an onboard chef to cook it) is generally included in the quoted cost. Houseboats can be chartered through the DTPC in Kollam or Alleppey, or a multitude of private operators.
This is the biggest business in K…
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Tourist Cruises
The popular cruise between Kollam and Alleppey departs at 10:30 and arrives at 18:30, operating daily from August to March and every second day at other times. Many hotels in Kollam and Alleppey take bookings for one or other of these services; some offer cheaper rates but you'll end up paying the difference on board.
Generally, there are two stops: a 13:00 lunch stop (be aware that you'll pay extra for every element over the standard meal!) and a brief afternoon chai stop. The crew has an ice box full of fruit, soft drinks and beer to sell. Bring sunscreen and a hat.
It's a scenic and leisurely way to get between the two towns, but as a backwater experience the cruise is …
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Village Tours
Village tours usually involve small groups of five to six people, a knowledgeable guide and an open canoe or covered kettuvallam. The tours (from Kochi, Kollam or Alleppey) last from 2½ to six hours and cost around Rs300toRs600 per person. You visit villages to watch coir-making, boat building, toddy (palm beer) tapping and fish farming, and on the longer trips a traditional Keralan lunch is provided.
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Canoe-Boat Tours
Any of the dozens of travel agencies in town can arrange canoe-boat tours of the backwaters. Rented canoe boats offer a nonguided laze through the canals on a small, covered canoe for up to four people - the ultimate way to spend a relaxing afternoon.
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Public Ferries
If you want the local backwater transport experience, or a shorter trip, there are State Water Transport boats between Alleppey and Kottayam. The trip crosses Vembanad Lake and has a more varied landscape than the Alleppey cruise.
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Motor-Boat Rental
The DTPC organises motor-boat rental, with several different itineraries possible in the high season (November to March). Boats cost around Rs25 per hour for up to 10 people.
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