Shikara rides, Alappuzha (Alleppey)
The shikara allows you to explore the narrow canals of Alappuzha's backwaters inaccessible to houseboats: fishing villages, Kuttanad rice fields and sunrise over Punnamada Lake.
The shikara is a thatched-roof boat, propelled by paddle or motor, that glides across Alappuzha's backwaters. Unlike houseboats, it can reach the narrow canals, fishing villages and flooded rice fields inaccessible to larger vessels. It's the most direct way to observe daily life in Kerala on the water: drying nets, children bathing, women washing clothes along the banks.
Quick practical information
- Recommended duration: 1 to 3 hours depending on the circuit chosen; some operators offer full-day outings.
- Departure: mainly from Alappuzha's Boat Jetty (main jetty) or from Punnamada Lake ghats.
- Dress code: no dress code restrictions; bring a hat and sunscreen — shade is rare on the water.
- Accessibility: boarding can be difficult on unequipped banks; check directly with the operator.
- Best season: October to March (dry season, soft morning light).
What you'll see
The backwaters network around Alappuzha spans several hundred kilometres of canals, lakes and lagoons. By shikara, you'll cross Punnamada Lake, the starting point for the famous Nehru Trophy snake boat race. Secondary canals run past coconut groves, paddy fields and villages where the canoe still serves as daily transport.
- Chinese fishing nets (cheena vala) suspended over the water
- Kettuvallam houseboats moored along the banks
- Aquatic birds: kingfishers, herons, cormorants
- Small temples and chapels visible from the water
History and context
The shikara originates from Kashmir, but the version used in Kerala has adapted to the region's flat backwaters. For centuries, these lightweight boats served to transport coconuts, rice and fish between isolated villages. With tourism development in the 1990s, they became the symbol of gentle backwater discovery, complementing motorised houseboats.
Highlights of the experience
The inland canals of Kuttanad
The Kuttanad region, nicknamed "Kerala's granary", lies partly below sea level. Shikaras navigate between dykes that hold back the rice fields. The contrast between water and crops is particularly striking during harvest season (November-January).
Sunrise over Punnamada Lake
Departing at dawn from the jetty lets you see the lake in raking light, before the houseboats arrive. The reflection of coconut palms on calm water and the activity of morning fishermen make this one of the most photogenic moments of your stay.
Fishing villages
Some circuits stop in villages accessible only by water. You can observe net-making, buy fresh fish or simply chat with locals — an immersion that larger boats don't permit.
Photography tips
Morning light (6am–9am) is ideal: it's golden, raking and avoids harsh midday glare. Position yourself at the bow of the boat to frame the canals in perspective. Chinese fishing nets are best photographed against the light. Avoid flash near birds to avoid startling them.
Location and access
Alappuzha is about 85 km north of Thiruvananthapuram and about 55 km south of Kochi. Alappuzha railway station is well served from both cities. The main Boat Jetty is a few minutes' walk from the station. Tuk-tuks and auto-rickshaws connect you from the town centre. Shikara operators are concentrated around the jetty and Punnamada Lake.
Nearby attractions
- Houseboat on Alappuzha's backwaters — extend your water experience by sleeping on the water.
- Nehru Trophy Boat Race — Kerala's most famous snake boat race, held annually in August on Punnamada Lake.
- Marari Beach — quiet beach about 15 km north of Alappuzha, ideal for a half-day retreat.
- Krishnapuram Palace — 18th-century palace in traditional Kerala architecture, about 45 km south.
Frequently asked questions
The dry season, from October to March, offers the best conditions: clear skies, calm water and pleasant light. Avoid the monsoon (June-September) if you're sensitive to heavy rain, although the backwaters are then very lush and green.
The shikara is a small, lightweight boat, ideal for narrow canals and outings of a few hours. The houseboat (kettuvallam) is a large vessel with bedrooms and kitchen, designed for nights on the water. Both experiences are complementary.
Yes. Several operators offer circuits that include stops in fishing villages or net-making workshops. Specify your wishes when booking.
Yes, with no particular restrictions on the water. Always ask permission from locals before photographing them in the villages you pass through.
In high season (December-January), advance booking is recommended, especially for sunrise outings. Outside this period, it's often possible to find an operator directly at the jetty.
No dress code restrictions. Bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen: exposure is strong on the water, even in overcast conditions.
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