Full-Day Private or Group Experience from Kochi · Kerala

Step into the timeless charm of Kumarakom's backwaters, where tranquil waterways, coconut groves, paddy fields, birdlife and traditional village communities come together in one immersive Kerala experience.

Travel by a traditional Shikara boat through the quieter waterways of Kumarakom, passing coconut-lined canals, local fishing boats, village homes, riverside temples and landscapes connected with Kerala's traditional crafts and occupations.

With an experienced licensed local guide accompanying you, discover the fascinating relationship between Kerala's people, waterways, agriculture and natural environment while enjoying the peaceful beauty of one of Kerala's distinctive backwater regions.

This is more than a boat ride. It is a relaxed journey into the landscape, communities and traditional way of life that have developed around Kerala's waterways.

• 🛶 Cruise through Kumarakom's backwaters by traditional Shikara boat
• 🌴 Explore coconut-fringed canals, lagoons and waterways
• 🐦 Discover Kumarakom's wetland environment and birdlife
• 🌾 See paddy fields and traditional Kerala landscapes
• 🎣 Observe traditional fishing and country boats
• 🏡 Experience backwater village life and riverside communities
• 🧵 Discover traditional coir-making and local cottage industries, where available
• 🛕 See riverside temples and village surroundings
• 📸 Enjoy excellent photography opportunities
• 👨‍🏫 Travel with an experienced licensed local guide
• 🚐 Comfortable private A/C transportation from Kochi
• 🕰️ Enjoy relaxed sightseeing without a rushed schedule
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Suitable for private travellers, families and groups

ExperienceDetailsDestinationKumarakomStarting PointKochiDurationFull-Day ExperienceTour TypePrivate or Group ExperienceMaximum Group Size25 GuestsBoatTraditional ShikaraTransportationPrivate A/C VehiclePickupHotel / Accommodation in KochiGuideExperienced Licensed Local Guide

Your experience begins with convenient pickup from your hotel or resort in Kochi.

Travel comfortably towards Kumarakom in a private air-conditioned vehicle selected according to the size of your group.

Group SizeVehicle1–2 GuestsA/C SedanUp to 4 GuestsA/C SUV such as Toyota Innova / Innova Crysta5+ GuestsA/C Van / Tempo Traveller

Pickup from locations outside Kochi can also be arranged on request and may involve additional transportation charges.

On arrival in Kumarakom, board your traditional Shikara boat and begin your backwater exploration.

The Shikara allows you to enter narrower and quieter waterways, providing a more intimate view of Kerala's rural landscape and wetland environment.

As you glide gently through the canals and lagoons, enjoy constantly changing views of:

• 🌴 Tall coconut palms
• 🌊 Narrow canals and waterways
• 🌾 Green paddy fields
• 🏡 Traditional Kerala homes
• 🎣 Local fishing boats
• 🛶 Canoes and country boats
• 🛕 Riverside temples
• 🏘️ Village pathways
• 🌿 Smaller waterways connecting the larger backwaters

The gentle pace of the Shikara provides plenty of time to relax, observe and photograph the surrounding landscape.

Kumarakom is closely associated with Kerala's wetland ecosystem and birdlife.

As the Shikara moves through the waterways, keep an eye out for birds around the backwaters, coconut groves and wetlands.

Depending on the season and local conditions, you may encounter:

• Egrets
• Herons
• Kingfishers
• Cormorants
• Darters
• Brahminy kites
• Other resident and migratory birds

Your guide can explain the connection between the backwater ecosystem, birds, agriculture and village life, helping you understand the landscape beyond its scenic beauty.

🐦 Birdwatching depends on season, weather, water conditions and natural activity. Sightings of particular bird species cannot be guaranteed.

One of the most rewarding aspects of the experience is watching everyday life unfold along the waterways.

As you cruise through smaller canals, observe local residents travelling by boat, fishermen tending their nets and families going about their daily activities.

Depending on local conditions, you may see:

• 🎣 Traditional fishing activities
• 🛶 Local country boats
• 🧵 Coir-making areas
• 🥥 Coconut processing
• 🌾 Paddy cultivation
• 🏡 Riverside homes
• 🛕 Small village temples
• 👨‍🌾 Farmers and fishermen at work
• 🏘️ Local occupations and village activities

Your guide will introduce you to the traditions, occupations and customs that have developed around Kerala's waterways.

Where possible, the route may include an opportunity to observe traditional coir-making or other local cottage activities.

Coir, made from coconut husk, has played an important role in the economic and cultural life of Kerala's backwater communities for generations.

These encounters provide a glimpse into the traditional skills and occupations that remain connected with village life.

🧵 Artisan and cottage-industry activities depend on local availability and whether the activity is taking place on the day of your visit.

Kumarakom provides wonderful opportunities for photography.

The slow-moving Shikara offers a comfortable platform from which to capture:

• Reflections of coconut palms on the water
• Traditional boats
• Paddy fields
• Village homes
• Fishermen at work
• Birds and wetland landscapes
• Narrow canals
• Coconut groves
• Kerala's distinctive rural scenery

The unhurried pace means there is no need to rush from one attraction to another.

This experience is particularly suitable for travellers who enjoy landscapes, village scenes, nature and authentic local life.

A suitable lunch stop can be arranged during the experience.

Lunch and beverages are not included in the tour price and are payable directly by the travellers.

Your guide can recommend suitable local dining options according to your preferences.

After completing the backwater experience, disembark from the Shikara and begin your return journey to Kochi.

Relax during the drive back while reflecting on a day spent exploring one of Kerala's distinctive backwater landscapes.

🏨 Hotel drop-off in Kochi is included.

Enjoy a personal and unhurried experience with your own vehicle, guide and Shikara boat.

Perfect for:

• Couples
• Families
• Small groups of friends
• Private travellers
• Photography enthusiasts

Private Tour Price: ₹15,000 for up to 4 guests

Group SizeTotal Price

1–4 Guests ₹ 15,000

5 Guests  ₹ 16,000

6 Guests ₹ 17,000

7 Guests ₹ 18,000

8 Guests ₹ 19,000

9 Guests ₹ 20,000

10 Guests ₹ 21,000

11 Guests ₹ 22,000

12 Guests ₹ 23,000

13 Guests ₹ 24,000

14 Guests ₹ 25,000

15 Guests ₹ 26,000

For groups of 16–25 guests, the same per-person pricing structure applies.

Maximum group size: 25 guests.

Vehicle and boat arrangements will be selected according to the final group size and local transportation requirements.

• Hotel/resort pickup and drop-off in Kochi
• Air-conditioned vehicle throughout the experience
• Vehicle selected according to group size
• A/C Sedan for 1–2 guests
• A/C SUV such as Toyota Innova / Innova Crysta for up to 4 guests
• A/C Van / Tempo Traveller for larger groups

• Traditional Shikara boat
• Kumarakom backwater cruise
• Scenic canal and lagoon exploration
• Village and backwater sightseeing

• Experienced licensed local guide
• Interpretation of the backwater ecosystem
• Information about village life, traditions and local occupations
• Assistance throughout the experience

• Lunch and beverages
• Personal expenses
• Purchases and souvenirs
• Tips and gratuities
• Activities not specifically mentioned under Price Includes
• Pickup from locations outside Kochi unless separately agreed
• Additional transportation requested outside the agreed itinerary

Kumarakom is not simply a scenic destination.

Its waterways are closely connected with agriculture, fishing, transportation, village settlements and traditional occupations.

Travelling slowly by Shikara allows you to see these different elements as part of one living landscape rather than experiencing the backwaters only as a sightseeing attraction.

Contact Excel India Tours with:

• Preferred travel date
• Number of guests
• Name and location of your hotel in Kochi
• Special requirements or preferences

We will check the availability of the Shikara boat, vehicle and licensed guide for your chosen date.

We will send you the final tour price, itinerary and booking details according to your group size and pickup location.

A booking payment or deposit may be requested to secure the vehicle, guide and Shikara arrangements.

Payment instructions will be provided with your booking confirmation.

Meet your driver and guide at the agreed pickup location and travel comfortably from Kochi to Kumarakom.

For guests staying outside Kochi, please provide your hotel location so that a customized transportation quotation can be prepared.

The exact Shikara route may vary according to weather, water levels, local conditions and boat operations.

Kumarakom is home to diverse birdlife, but sightings naturally depend on season, weather and local conditions. No particular bird species can be guaranteed.

Visits to coir-making areas and other cottage industries depend on local availability and whether the activity is taking place on the day of the tour.

For larger groups, vehicles may be arranged according to the number of participants and local transportation requirements.

✔ Cruise through scenic Kumarakom backwaters
✔ Explore peaceful narrow canals and coconut lagoons
✔ Travel by traditional Shikara boat
✔ Discover Kerala's wetland environment
✔ Look for local and migratory birdlife
✔ Observe traditional fishing and village life
✔ Discover coir-making and local crafts where available
✔ Learn about Kerala's relationship with its waterways
✔ Enjoy comfortable A/C transportation from Kochi
✔ Travel with an experienced licensed local guide
✔ Suitable for couples, families and groups
✔ Available for groups of up to 25 guests

The Kumarakom Coconut Lagoon Experience is more than a boat ride.

It is a journey into the landscapes and communities that have shaped Kerala's backwater culture for generations—where coconut palms lean over quiet canals, fishermen work from traditional boats, birds gather around wetlands and village life continues at its own peaceful rhythm.

Experience Kumarakom's backwaters, birds and village life at a relaxed Kerala pace.

Experience the backwaters from the water—not just from the shore.

Contact Excel India Tours to check availability and reserve your Kumarakom Coconut Lagoon experience.

Cruise · Discover · Connect · Remember

Private & Small Group Experience | 4-Hour Early Morning Tour | Up to 15 Guests

Discover Kumarakom during its most peaceful hours, when the backwaters, wetlands and surrounding countryside come alive with birdsong and the first light of day.

This early-morning birdwatching experience takes you into the beautiful wetland landscapes of Kumarakom, offering an opportunity to observe Kerala's resident and seasonal migratory birds in their natural surroundings.

Accompanied by an experienced Tour Guide/Naturalist, you will explore the waterways and wetland areas while learning about the birds, their behaviour and the unique ecosystem that supports them.

Whether you are a passionate birdwatcher, nature photographer, wildlife enthusiast or simply someone who enjoys peaceful experiences in nature, this tour offers a wonderful way to experience the quieter side of Kumarakom.

Destination: Kumarakom
Tour Type: Private & Small Group Experience
Duration: Approximately 4 Hours
Tour Start: 5:00 AM
Maximum Group Size: 15 Guests
Theme: Birdwatching • Nature • Wetlands • Photography

Your experience begins at around 5:00 AM, before sunrise, when bird activity is at its most interesting and the countryside is still quiet.

Travel comfortably through the lush Kerala countryside towards the birding areas of Kumarakom. As the morning light gradually appears, your guide will help you observe birds moving between the waterways, wetlands, trees and surrounding vegetation.

The cool morning air, calm waters and soft natural light create an ideal atmosphere for wildlife observation and photography.

The experience is deliberately kept relaxed, allowing you to spend time observing nature rather than rushing from one location to another.

Kumarakom is home to a variety of resident wetland and water birds, while seasonal conditions may also bring migratory species.

Depending on the season, weather and natural activity, you may encounter:

• Egrets
• Herons
• Kingfishers
• Cormorants
• Darters
• Brahminy Kites
• Pond Herons
• Waterhens
• Ducks
• Other resident and migratory birds

Your guide will assist with bird identification and share interesting information about their behaviour, habitat and relationship with the Kumarakom wetlands.

Please note: Bird sightings are naturally dependent on season, weather and wildlife activity. Every morning in the wetlands can offer a different experience.

This is more than simply a birdwatching trip. It is an opportunity to experience the relationship between Kerala's natural environment and the traditional communities that have lived around these waterways for generations.

Along the way, you may enjoy views of:

• Coconut-lined waterways
• Wetlands and marshes
• Traditional village landscapes
• Quiet backwater scenery
• Mist-covered morning reflections
• Local fishing activities
• Paddy fields and countryside landscapes

The peaceful surroundings provide an authentic glimpse of life around the Kumarakom backwaters.

The early morning light creates excellent conditions for photography.

Depending on the weather and wildlife activity, you may capture:

• Birds in flight
• Birds reflected on calm waters
• Misty wetlands
• Kingfishers and water birds
• Palm-fringed waterways
• Traditional village scenery
• Fishermen beginning their day's work
• The soft light and peaceful atmosphere of rural Kerala

The relaxed pace of the experience allows photographers time to observe and wait for interesting moments.

₹8,500 per group

Ideal for couples, photographers and private travellers looking for a personalised birdwatching experience with flexibility and a comfortable pace.

₹10,500 per group

A convenient private option for families and small groups who would like to enjoy the birdwatching experience together.

₹2,000 per person

An excellent option for larger families, birdwatching clubs, nature enthusiasts and organised groups.

Comfortable air-conditioned transportation will be provided according to the size of your group.

Group SizeVehicle

1–2 GuestsA/C Sedan

3–4 GuestsA/C SUV – Toyota Innova Crysta or Similar

5–15 GuestsA/C Van / Tempo Traveller

• Air-conditioned vehicle throughout the tour
• Vehicle selected according to group size
• Professional driver

• Services of an experienced Tour Guide/Naturalist
• Bird identification and interpretation
• Nature and wetland interpretation
• Assistance throughout the experience

• Breakfast
• Personal expenses
• Binocular rental, if required
• Tips and gratuities
• Any activity or service not specifically mentioned under inclusions

The tour starts at approximately 5:00 AM. The early start is important because bird activity is generally more rewarding during the cooler morning hours.

Birdwatching involves nature and wildlife, so sightings cannot be guaranteed. The number and variety of birds can vary according to season, weather and local conditions.

We recommend bringing:

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Binoculars, if available
• Camera with zoom lens
• Light jacket or shawl for the early morning
• Drinking water
• Hat/cap and sun protection for later in the morning

The winter season can be particularly interesting for birdwatchers, when seasonal migratory birds may join Kumarakom's resident bird population.

✔ Early-morning birdwatching in Kumarakom's wetland environment

✔ Experienced Tour Guide/Naturalist

✔ Comfortable private transportation

✔ Ideal for photographers and nature lovers

✔ Suitable for couples, families and groups

✔ Private options available for 1–4 guests

✔ Small groups of up to 15 guests

✔ Peaceful experience away from busy tourist areas

✔ Opportunity to observe resident and seasonal migratory birds

✔ Experience Kerala's backwaters, wetlands and village landscapes together

Wake up early and experience a quieter, more natural side of Kumarakom.

As the first light appears over the backwaters, listen to the calls of kingfishers, watch herons move across the wetlands and observe local life beginning its day along the waterways.

Every morning is different, and every birding experience brings the possibility of discovering something new.

🌅 Sunrise • 🐦 Birdlife • 🌿 Wetlands • 📸 Photography • 🚣 Backwaters • 🌴 Kerala

Contact Excel India Tours with your preferred date, number of guests and accommodation details. We will help arrange your early-morning birdwatching experience in Kumarakom according to your group size and requirements.

Come early. Leave the crowds behind. Discover Kumarakom at its most peaceful.

Private Evening Experience · Kumarakom · Kerala

Experience Kumarakom at one of the most beautiful times of the day as the afternoon light gradually softens and the backwaters take on the warm colours of the approaching sunset.

Cruise gently through the tranquil waterways of Kumarakom and Vembanad Lake, passing coconut-lined canals, traditional fishing boats, village homes, wetlands and peaceful rural landscapes.

This relaxed private experience combines scenic cruising, traditional Kerala backwater life, local culture, photography and sunset views in one unhurried journey.

The cruise is conducted on a private Shikkara or houseboat according to group size, accompanied by an experienced local guide who can introduce you to the landscape, communities and traditions connected with Kerala's waterways.

ExperienceDetailsDestinationKumarakom

Tour Type Private Sunset Cruise Duration Approximately 3 Hours

Starting Time 4:00 PM Group Size 1–15 Guests Cruise Area Kumarakom / Vembanad Lake Backwaters Boat Shikkara or Houseboat according to group size Pickup Hotel / Resort in Kumarakom Drop-off Same location as pickup 

GuideExperienced Local Guide

TransportationPrivate A/C Vehicle

Your experience begins at approximately 4:00 PM with pickup from your hotel or resort in Kumarakom.

Travel comfortably in a private air-conditioned vehicle to the designated cruise point, where you will board your private boat

Group SizeVehicle1–2 GuestsA/C Sedan

3–4 GuestsA/C SUV such as Toyota Innova Crysta or similar

5–15 GuestsA/C Van such as Force Traveller or similar

After the cruise, your vehicle will take you back to the same hotel or resort.

Pickup and drop-off from locations outside Kumarakom can also be arranged on request, subject to mutually agreed transportation arrangements and applicable additional charges.

To provide a comfortable experience for different group sizes, the cruise vessel is selected according to the number of guests.

Group SizeCruise Vessel1–10 GuestsPrivate Shikkara Boat11–15 GuestsPrivate Houseboat

Groups of up to 10 guests will cruise aboard a private Shikkara boat.

The Shikkara is a traditional-style motorized sightseeing boat particularly suited to relaxed backwater cruising.

Its open-sided design provides excellent views of the surrounding landscape and good opportunities for photography.

• Comfortable seating
• Covered/canopy area for shade
• Open sides for views and photography
• Life jackets
• Private use of the boat for your group

Groups of 11–15 guests will cruise aboard a private houseboat, providing a more spacious setting for a larger group.

The houseboat provides:

• Spacious seating areas
• Covered areas for comfort
• Open viewing areas
• Life jackets
• Private use of the vessel for your group

Important: The exact boat design and facilities may vary according to operational availability and the vessel assigned on the day.

This is a sightseeing sunset cruise and not an overnight houseboat stay.

Specific facilities such as onboard toilets or refreshments should be confirmed in advance if required.

The applicable private boat-hire charge is included in the tour price.

The total price varies according to the number of guests because the appropriate Shikkara or houseboat must be arranged for your group.

Once aboard your private vessel, begin a leisurely cruise through the scenic waterways of Kumarakom.

The gentle movement of the boat allows you to appreciate the landscape without a rushed sightseeing schedule.

Depending on the route and local conditions, you may see:

• 🌴 Coconut-fringed waterways
• 🎣 Traditional fishing boats
• 🛶 Country boats and canoes
• 🏡 Riverside homes
• 🌾 Paddy fields and wetlands
• 👨‍🌾 Local fishermen
• 🏘️ Small village settlements
• 🐦 Birds around the backwaters
• 🌴 Coconut plantations and tropical vegetation

The pleasure of this experience lies in simply being on the water and watching Kerala's backwater life unfold around you.

Kumarakom's backwaters are not simply a scenic attraction. They form a living landscape where waterways, villages, agriculture, fishing and everyday life are closely connected.

During the cruise, your guide can explain aspects of:

• Traditional backwater life
• Fishing and local occupations
• Coconut cultivation
• Paddy cultivation
• Traditional boats and waterways
• The importance of Vembanad Lake
• Local village communities
• The ecology of the backwater region

For generations, Kerala's backwaters have served as important routes for people, goods and livelihoods.

Cruising through these waterways provides an opportunity to see the continuing relationship between the people of Kerala and their natural environment.

As the afternoon progresses, the light becomes softer and the backwaters gradually take on a warm golden glow.

The combination of the setting sun, coconut palms, traditional boats and reflections on the water creates an unmistakably Kerala landscape.

Depending on the weather and season, you may have opportunities to:

• Watch the sunset from the boat
• Capture golden reflections on the water
• Observe boats returning from the day's activities
• Enjoy the changing colours of the sky
• Photograph the surrounding landscape
• Simply relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere

🌅 Sunset visibility depends on weather and cloud conditions. The cruise is timed to provide an opportunity to experience the evening light and sunset atmosphere, but an unobstructed sunset cannot be guaranteed.

The late-afternoon light makes this cruise particularly appealing for photography.

Possible subjects include:

• Golden reflections on the lake
• Coconut palms against the evening sky
• Traditional Kerala boats
• Fishermen returning home
• Riverside homes and villages
• Birds around the waterways
• Backwater landscapes
• Silhouettes at sunset

The private nature of the cruise allows you to take your time and enjoy the surroundings without being tied to a large shared-tour schedule.

After approximately three hours on the water, return to the cruise point.

Your private vehicle will then take you back to your hotel or resort.

Time Activity 4:00 PM Hotel pickup 4:15–4:30 PM Reach cruise point and board the boat 4:30–6:45 PM Backwater and sunset cruise Around 7:00 PM Return to hotel/resort

The exact cruising and return times may vary slightly according to the cruise route, sunset conditions, boat operations and local circumstances.

The price includes private A/C transportation, guide services and private boat hire, with the type of boat determined by group size.

Guests Total Tour Price

1 Guest ₹ 10,500

2 Guests ₹ 12,500

3 Guests ₹ 14,500 

4 Guests ₹ 16,500

5 Guests ₹ 18,500

6 Guests ₹ 20,500

7 Guests ₹ 22,500

8 Guests ₹ 24,500

9 Guests ₹ 26,500 

10 Guests ₹ 28,500

11 Guests

Price on Request

12 Guests 

Price on Request

13 Guests

Price on Request

14 Guests 

Price on Request

15 Guests

Price on Request

Important Pricing Note: The prices shown above are based on the current Shikkara-boat arrangement for groups of up to 10 guests.

For groups of 11–15 guests, a houseboat is required and the price will be revised to include the applicable houseboat-hire charge.

For groups of 11–15 guests, please provide your travel date and exact number of guests. We will confirm the appropriate houseboat and provide the final all-inclusive tour price.

Boat-hire charges are included in the total price based on group size and vessel type.

Group Size Vehicle

1–2 Guests A/C Sedan

3–4 Guests A/C SUV – Toyota Innova Crysta or similar 

5–15 Guests A/C Van – Force Traveller or similar

The vehicle is used for hotel pickup, transfer to the cruise point and return to the hotel.

• Hotel/resort pickup in Kumarakom
• Private A/C vehicle
• Transfer to and from the cruise point
• Hotel/resort drop-off
• Vehicle according to group size

• Approximately 3-hour sunset cruise
• Private Shikkara for groups of 1–10
• Private houseboat for groups of 11–15
• Applicable boat-hire charges
• Scenic backwater sightseeing
• Sunset-viewing opportunity

• Experienced local guide
• Information about backwater life and local culture
• Interpretation of the landscape and local activities
• Assistance throughout the experience

• Food and beverages unless specifically mentioned
• Personal expenses
• Tips and gratuities
• Optional activities
• Expenses arising from special transportation arrangements outside Kumarakom
• Anything not specifically mentioned under Price Includes

The vessel is selected according to group size:

1–10 guests → Private Shikkara
11–15 guests → Private Houseboat

Facilities can vary slightly according to the particular vessel assigned.

Life jackets are provided. Specific facilities such as onboard toilets, refreshments or other amenities should be confirmed in advance if required.

The cruise operates subject to weather and local water conditions.

In case of adverse weather or operational restrictions, the route or timing may need to be adjusted.

Sunset visibility depends on weather and cloud conditions and therefore cannot be guaranteed.

The exact route may vary according to water conditions, local regulations, boat operations and prevailing circumstances.

Start: Approximately 4:00 PM
Duration: Approximately 3 hours
Return: Approximately 7:00 PM

Pickup and drop-off from locations outside Kumarakom can be arranged on request at mutually agreed transportation rates.

✔ Private sunset experience
✔ Shikkara for groups up to 10
✔ Houseboat for groups of 11–15
✔ Applicable private boat-hire charges included
✔ Approximately 3 hours on the backwaters
✔ Beautiful evening views of Kumarakom and Vembanad Lake
✔ Opportunity to observe traditional backwater life
✔ Excellent photography opportunities
✔ Private A/C transportation
✔ Hotel/resort pickup and drop-off
✔ Experienced local guide
✔ Suitable for couples, families and small groups

As the sun slowly descends over the backwaters, Kumarakom becomes quieter and more atmospheric.

Coconut palms turn into silhouettes, traditional boats glide across the water and the last light of the day transforms Vembanad Lake into a landscape of warm reflections.

There is nowhere you need to hurry to and nothing you need to do except sit back, watch the landscape and experience Kerala at its most peaceful.

To arrange your private sunset experience, simply send us:

• 📅 Your preferred date
• 👥 Number of guests
• 🏨 Hotel/resort name and location

We will confirm the appropriate Shikkara or houseboat, check availability and provide the final price for your group.

Reserve your Kumarakom Sunset Cruise and experience the magic of Kerala's backwaters at sunset.