Experience a different side of Kerala away from the busy streets of Kochi. Travel from Cochin Port into the peaceful backwater countryside, where narrow canals, coconut palms, paddy fields, traditional homes and village communities reveal the authentic rhythm of rural Kerala.

Enjoy a scenic cruise by traditional country boat / Shikara, explore quiet waterways and observe everyday village life, traditional occupations and Kerala’s beautiful backwater landscape.

A wonderful choice for cruise passengers who want to experience Kerala’s countryside, backwater villages and traditional way of life in a relaxed and comfortable excursion.

Tour Type: Shore Excursion – Private / Small Group

Starting Point: Cochin Port Cruise Terminal

Destination: Kerala Backwater Village Region

Cruise: Traditional Country Boat / Shikara

Transport: Private A/C vehicle from the Cruise Terminal

Full-Day Option: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Half-Day Morning: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Half-Day Afternoon: 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Maximum Group Size: Up to 25 guests

Walking: Easy and generally limited

This excursion is specially designed for guests arriving at Cochin Port who would like to experience Kerala beyond the city.

Instead of spending the entire day visiting crowded attractions, travel into the countryside and experience the tranquil world of Kerala's famous backwaters.

The programme can be adapted according to your ship's arrival and departure schedule, allowing sufficient time for the return journey to the Cruise Terminal.

Shore-excursion timing is always planned with your ship's schedule in mind. Please provide your cruise name and port timings when booking.

After leaving the Cruise Terminal, travel comfortably by A/C vehicle towards the backwater region.

The landscape gradually changes from the urban environment of Kochi to a greener countryside of:

• Coconut plantations
• Paddy fields
• Narrow canals
• Traditional village houses
• Fishing communities
• Small bridges
• Country boats and canoes
• Riverside temples and churches
• Local farms and waterways

The backwaters are not simply a tourist attraction. They are a living landscape, where waterways continue to form an important part of everyday life.

Board a traditional country boat / Shikara for a peaceful cruise through the backwaters.

The boat takes you through waterways surrounded by coconut palms, village homes, agricultural land and small settlements.

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

• Local fishermen
• Traditional country boats
• Canoes
• Paddy cultivation
• Coconut harvesting
• Village homes
• Small canals and waterways
• Birds and wetland wildlife
• Children travelling to and from school
• People carrying out their everyday activities

Boat type and exact route may vary according to water conditions, local operations and group size. The experience focuses on authentic village waterways rather than a high-speed sightseeing cruise.

The backwater cruise is operated using a local country boat or Shikara suitable for sightseeing through Kerala's canals and backwaters.

Facilities generally include:

• Comfortable passenger seating
• Covered or shaded area
• Open viewing areas
• Life jackets / standard safety equipment
• Experienced boatman / crew
• Excellent opportunities for photography

Please note: This is a sightseeing country-boat experience and not an overnight houseboat or luxury cruise. Boat design and facilities may vary according to the boat assigned for the group. Toilet facilities are not guaranteed onboard.

Depending on the selected route and local conditions, the excursion may include opportunities to observe or visit aspects of traditional village life.

You may encounter:

• Traditional homes
• Coir-related activities
• Fishing
• Coconut processing
• Paddy farming
• Small village workshops
• Local markets
• Traditional agricultural practices

The guide will explain how the waterways connect homes, farms, villages and communities.

Village activities are part of everyday life and cannot always be guaranteed as demonstrations. The programme is designed around authentic encounters rather than staged performances.

The backwater villages provide wonderful opportunities for photography.

Capture:

🌴 Coconut palms reflected in the water

🛶 Traditional boats and canoes

🏡 Kerala village homes

🌾 Paddy fields and wetlands

🐦 Backwater birds

🎣 Local fishing activities

👨‍🌾 Rural life along the canals

The slower pace of the country-boat cruise allows you to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

09:00 AM – Pick-up from Cochin Port

Meet your guide and driver at the Cruise Terminal and begin your excursion in a comfortable A/C vehicle.

Morning – Journey to the Backwaters

Travel towards Kerala's countryside, leaving the busy city behind.

Backwater Village Cruise

Board the traditional country boat / Shikara and cruise through canals and backwater waterways.

Village Exploration

Discover the rural landscape and observe traditional occupations, village homes and everyday life along the waterways.

Lunch

A local lunch can be arranged on request, depending on the selected programme and location.

Afternoon – Continue the Backwater Experience

Enjoy additional cruising, village scenery, photography and local interaction.

Approximately 5:00 PM – Return to Cochin Port

Travel back to the Cruise Terminal with sufficient time for your ship's departure.

1–4 guests: ₹15,000 per group

5–15 guests: ₹15,000 for the first 4 + ₹1,000 per additional guest

16–25 guests: ₹15,000 for the first 4 + ₹1,000 per additional guest

GuestsTotal Price1–4₹15,0005₹16,0006₹17,00010₹21,00015₹26,00020₹31,00025₹36,000

Ideal for cruise passengers who want to experience the backwaters while keeping plenty of time available for other activities or their ship's schedule.

9:00 AM: Pick-up from Cochin Port

Morning: Travel to the backwater village region

Backwater Cruise: Traditional country boat / Shikara through canals and village waterways

Village Experience: Observe rural Kerala, fishing, farming, coconut palms and traditional homes

1:00 PM: Return to Cochin Port

1–4 guests: ₹13,000 per group

Additional guests: ₹1,300 per person

Maximum: 25 guests

Both half-day options therefore use the following table:

GuestsTotal Price

1–4  ₹13,000

5 ₹14,300

6 ₹15,600

7 ₹16,900

8 ₹18,200

9 ₹19,500

10 ₹20,800

11 ₹22,100

12 ₹23,400

13 ₹24,700

14 ₹26,000

15 ₹27,300

16 ₹28,600

17 ₹29,900

18 ₹31,200

19 ₹32,500

20  ₹33,800

21  ₹35,100

22  ₹36,400

23 ₹37,700

24 ₹39,000

25 ₹40,300

Pricing formula: ₹13,000 for up to 4 guests + ₹1,300 for each additional guest, up to 25 guests.

A relaxing afternoon option for guests who prefer to begin after lunch and enjoy the backwaters during the softer afternoon light.

1:00 PM: Pick-up from Cochin Port

Afternoon: Drive towards the backwater villages

Country Boat / Shikara Cruise: Explore narrow canals and peaceful waterways

Village Experience: Discover rural landscapes and traditional ways of life

Late Afternoon: Enjoy the changing light over the backwaters

Approximately 6:00 PM: Return to Cochin Port

Both half-day options therefore use the following table:

GuestsTotal Price

1–4 ₹13,000

5 ₹14,300

6₹15,600 7₹16,900 8₹18,200

9₹19,500

10₹20,800

11₹22,100

12₹23,400

13₹24,700

14₹26,000

5₹27,300

16₹28,600

17₹29,900

18₹31,200

19₹32,500

20₹33,800

21₹35,100

22₹36,400

23₹37,700

24₹39,000

25₹40,300 

Pricing formula: ₹13,000 for up to 4 guests + ₹1,300 for each additional guest, up to 25 guests.

The afternoon option is particularly attractive for guests who enjoy photography, quieter waterways and the warm evening light of Kerala's countryside.

All road transportation between the Cochin Port Cruise Terminal and the backwater region is provided in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.

Group SizeVehicle1–4 guestsA/C Sedan or SUV5–25 guestsA/C Van such as Force Traveller

For larger groups, vehicles can be arranged according to the final number of guests.

Your excursion is accompanied by an experienced local guide who can introduce you to:

• Kerala's backwater system
• Rural traditions
• Fishing and agriculture
• Coconut cultivation
• Village architecture
• Local customs
• Everyday life along the waterways

The guide will also assist with coordination between the vehicle, boat and village experiences.

• Pick-up and drop-off at Cochin Port Cruise Terminal
• Private A/C road transportation
• Vehicle according to group size
• Traditional country boat / Shikara cruise
• Experienced professional guide
• Backwater village sightseeing
• Assistance throughout the excursion
• Drinking water

• Food and beverages unless specifically included
• Personal expenses
• Tips and gratuities
• Optional activities
• Any entrance fees not specifically mentioned
• Expenses arising from changes requested by guests
• Anything not specifically mentioned under Price Includes

The excursion will be planned around your ship's arrival and departure times.

Please provide your cruise name, arrival time and departure time when making an enquiry.

The exact country boat / Shikara may vary according to group size, water conditions and local availability.

The backwater experience operates subject to weather and local conditions. During heavy rain or adverse weather, the route or boat arrangements may need to be modified for safety.

The excursion involves limited and easy walking, making it suitable for guests who prefer a relaxed experience.

The advertised timings are approximate and may be adjusted slightly according to the ship's port schedule, traffic and local operating conditions.

✔ Designed especially for cruise passengers

✔ Convenient Cochin Port pick-up and drop-off

✔ Traditional country boat / Shikara cruise

✔ Discover Kerala beyond the usual tourist attractions

✔ Experience authentic village landscapes

✔ Small-group and private options

✔ Comfortable A/C transportation

✔ Experienced local guide

✔ Limited walking

✔ Excellent photography opportunities

✔ Suitable for families, couples and mature travellers

✔ Flexible full-day and half-day options

Contact Excel India Tours with the following details:

📅 Preferred travel date

👥 Number of guests

🚢 Cruise ship name

🕐 Arrival and departure times at Cochin Port

🏨 Hotel location, if staying in Kochi before or after the cruise

📋 Any special requirements or preferences

We will check the availability of the country boat / Shikara, vehicle and guide and confirm the arrangements for your chosen date.

For guests staying outside Kochi, please provide your hotel location so that we can prepare a customised transportation quotation.

The true beauty of Kerala is not found only in its famous monuments and cities. It is also found along the quiet canals, coconut-lined waterways and villages where life continues at a gentle pace.

Leave the crowds behind and discover the Kerala that exists beyond the main tourist routes.

Send us your date, cruise ship details and number of guests, and let Excel India Tours arrange your private or small-group backwater experience from Cochin Port.

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

Escape the busy streets of Kochi and discover the peaceful world of Kerala's backwater villages on this specially designed morning shore excursion from Cochin Port.

Travel comfortably from the Cruise Terminal by A/C vehicle into the green countryside, where coconut palms, paddy fields, narrow canals and traditional homes create the quintessential Kerala landscape.

Enjoy a relaxing cruise by traditional country boat / Shikara, observe village life along the waterways and discover a quieter, more authentic side of Kerala.

A perfect half-day experience for cruise passengers who want to experience Kerala's famous backwaters and rural life while returning to the port by approximately 1:00 PM.

Tour Type: Private / Small Group Shore Excursion

Duration: Approximately 4 Hours

Starting Time: 9:00 AM

Return to Port: Approximately 1:00 PM

Starting Point: Cochin Port Cruise Terminal

Cruise: Traditional Country Boat / Shikara

Transport: Private A/C Vehicle

Maximum Group Size: 25 Guests

Walking: Easy and Limited

Your guide and driver will meet you at the designated meeting point at Cochin Port Cruise Terminal.

Board your comfortable A/C vehicle and begin your journey towards Kerala's peaceful backwater countryside.

The drive takes you away from the urban landscape of Kochi into a greener environment of coconut groves, paddy fields, canals and traditional settlements.

As you travel towards the backwaters, your guide will introduce you to the landscape and explain how Kerala's waterways have traditionally connected villages, farms and communities.

Along the way, you may see:

• 🌴 Coconut plantations
• 🌾 Paddy fields
• 🏡 Traditional Kerala houses
• 🛶 Country boats and canoes
• 🎣 Fishing communities
• 🌿 Tropical vegetation
• 🌊 Narrow canals and waterways
• 🐦 Wetland and backwater birds

The journey itself becomes part of the experience, providing a glimpse into everyday Kerala beyond the main tourist attractions.

On reaching the backwater region, board a traditional country boat / Shikara for a peaceful cruise through the waterways.

The boat moves slowly through narrow canals and wider stretches of backwater, allowing you to observe the landscape at a relaxed pace.

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

• Local fishermen
• Traditional boats
• Canoes
• Paddy fields
• Coconut palms
• Village homes
• Small bridges
• Riverside communities
• Birds and wetland wildlife
• People going about their daily activities

The quiet rhythm of the boat provides an opportunity to appreciate Kerala's famous backwater landscape without the crowds.

The cruise is operated using a local country boat or Shikara suitable for sightseeing through Kerala's canals and backwaters.

Facilities generally include:

• Comfortable passenger seating
• Covered or shaded seating area
• Open viewing areas
• Life jackets / standard safety equipment
• Experienced boatman / crew
• Excellent opportunities for photography

Please note: This is a scenic sightseeing cruise and not an overnight houseboat or luxury cruise. Boat design, seating arrangement and facilities may vary according to the boat assigned for the group. Toilet facilities are not guaranteed onboard.

The backwaters are a living environment rather than simply a tourist attraction.

As you cruise through the villages, observe how people live and work alongside the waterways.

Your guide will explain aspects of:

• Traditional fishing
• Paddy cultivation
• Coconut farming
• Village transportation
• Traditional houses
• Local occupations
• Life along the canals
• The importance of Kerala's backwater network

Where possible, the route may include opportunities to see traditional village activities.

Village activities are part of everyday community life and cannot always be guaranteed as organised demonstrations. The emphasis is on genuine observation and local interaction.

The morning light is particularly pleasant for photography.

Look out for:

🌴 Coconut palms reflected in the water

🛶 Traditional boats and canoes

🌾 Green paddy fields

🏡 Riverside homes

🎣 Fishermen at work

🐦 Birds around the wetlands

🌿 Tropical vegetation

The slow-moving boat provides plenty of opportunities to photograph the changing landscape.

Meet your guide and driver at the Cruise Terminal.

Travel by comfortable A/C vehicle towards the backwater village region.

Enjoy a peaceful cruise through canals, waterways and village landscapes.

Observe rural life, traditional occupations and the beautiful backwater environment.

Travel back to Cochin Port.

Arrive back at the Cruise Terminal, with the exact timing adjusted according to your ship's schedule and local traffic conditions.

₹13,000 for up to 4 guests

₹1,300 for each additional guest

Maximum: 25 guests

GuestsTotal Price

1 to 4 ₹13,000

5₹14,300

6₹15,600

7₹16,900

8₹18,200

9₹19,500

10₹20,800

11₹22,100

12₹23,400

13₹24,700

14₹26,000

15₹27,300

16₹28,600

17₹29,900

18₹31,200

19₹32,500

20₹33,800

21₹35,100

22₹36,400

23₹37,700

24₹39,000

25₹40,300

Pricing formula: ₹13,000 for the first 4 guests + ₹1,300 for every additional guest.

All transportation between Cochin Port and the backwater village region is provided in a comfortable A/C vehicle.

Group SizeVehicle1–4 GuestsA/C Sedan or SUV5–25 GuestsA/C Van such as Force Traveller

Vehicle selection may be adjusted according to the final group size and luggage requirements.

Your experienced local guide accompanies you throughout the excursion and provides information about:

• Kerala's backwater system
• Rural traditions
• Fishing and agriculture
• Village life
• Local culture
• Traditional occupations
• The natural environment

• Cochin Port Cruise Terminal pick-up and drop-off
• Private A/C road transportation
• Vehicle according to group size
• Traditional country boat / Shikara cruise
• Experienced professional local guide
• Backwater village sightseeing
• Assistance throughout the excursion
• Drinking water

• Food and beverages
• Personal expenses
• Tips and gratuities
• Optional activities
• Expenses not specifically mentioned under inclusions

This excursion is planned specifically for cruise passengers.

Please provide your cruise ship name, arrival time and departure time so that we can plan the excursion safely around your port schedule.

The exact boat may vary according to group size, water conditions and local availability.

The cruise operates subject to weather and local conditions. In case of heavy rain or adverse conditions, the route or boat arrangements may need to be modified.

The excursion involves limited and easy walking and is suitable for guests who prefer a relaxed pace.

The advertised 9:00 AM–1:00 PM timing is approximate and may be adjusted slightly according to port procedures, traffic and your ship's schedule.

✔ Specially designed for Cochin Port cruise passengers

✔ Convenient port pick-up and drop-off

✔ Traditional country boat / Shikara cruise

✔ Discover Kerala's peaceful backwater villages

✔ Observe authentic rural life

✔ Comfortable A/C transportation

✔ Experienced local guide

✔ Limited walking

✔ Excellent photography opportunities

✔ Private and small-group options

✔ Suitable for couples, families and mature travellers

Contact Excel India Tours with the following details:

📅 Preferred travel date

👥 Number of guests

🚢 Cruise ship name

🕐 Arrival and departure times at Cochin Port

🏨 Hotel location, if applicable

📋 Any special requirements or preferences

We will check the availability of the country boat / Shikara, vehicle and guide and confirm the arrangements for your chosen date.

For guests staying outside Kochi, please provide your hotel location so that we can prepare a customised transportation quotation.

Leave the cruise ship behind for a few hours and discover the quieter side of Kerala.

Glide through peaceful waterways, pass coconut-lined villages, watch local life unfold along the canals and experience the beauty of Kerala's countryside from the water.

Send us your travel date, cruise ship details and number of guests, and Excel India Tours will arrange your backwater village experience from Cochin Port.

Your Kerala backwater story begins here.

The afternoon provides a different atmosphere on the backwaters.

As the heat of the day begins to soften, the waterways become increasingly peaceful. The changing light creates beautiful reflections on the water and highlights the greenery along the canals.

Enjoy:

🌴 Coconut palms reflected in the water

🛶 Traditional boats moving through the canals

🌾 Green paddy fields

🏡 Riverside homes

🎣 Local fishing activities

🐦 Birds around the wetlands

📸 Excellent photography opportunities

The late afternoon light can be particularly attractive for photography, although exact weather and lighting conditions naturally vary from day to day.

The relaxed pace of the cruise gives you plenty of time to photograph Kerala's rural landscapes.

Look out for:

• Traditional boats
• Fishermen
• Coconut palms
• Paddy fields
• Village houses
• Canals and bridges
• Birds and wetlands
• People going about their daily lives

The experience is particularly suited to travellers who enjoy landscape, nature and documentary-style photography.

After completing the backwater cruise and village experience, leave the waterways and return towards Kochi by A/C vehicle.

Enjoy the changing countryside as the afternoon begins to give way to evening.

Arrive back at the Cruise Terminal.

The exact return time will be coordinated with your cruise ship's schedule and may vary slightly according to traffic and local conditions.

₹13,000 for up to 4 guests

₹1,300 for each additional guest

Maximum: 25 guests

GuestsTotal Price

1–4₹13,000

5 ₹14,300

6 ₹15,600

7 ₹16,900

8 ₹18,200

9 ₹19,500

10 ₹20,800

11 ₹22,100

12 ₹23,400

13 ₹24,700

14 ₹26,000

15 ₹27,300

16 ₹28,600

17 ₹29,900

18 ₹31,200

19 ₹32,500

20 ₹33,800

21 ₹35,100

22 ₹36,400

23 ₹37,700

24 ₹39,000

25 ₹40,300

Pricing formula: ₹13,000 for the first 4 guests + ₹1,300 for every additional guest.

All road transportation between Cochin Port Cruise Terminal and the backwater village region is provided in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.

Group SizeVehicle1–4 GuestsA/C Sedan or SUV5–25 GuestsA/C Van such as Force Traveller

Vehicle selection may be adjusted according to the final group size and luggage requirements.

Your experienced local guide accompanies you throughout the excursion and introduces you to:

• Kerala's backwater system
• Rural traditions
• Fishing and agriculture
• Coconut cultivation
• Village architecture
• Local customs
• Everyday life along the waterways

The guide also assists with coordination between the vehicle, boat and village experience.

• Cochin Port Cruise Terminal pick-up and drop-off
• Private A/C road transportation
• Vehicle according to group size
• Traditional country boat / Shikara cruise
• Experienced professional local guide
• Backwater village sightseeing
• Assistance throughout the excursion
• Drinking water

• Food and beverages
• Personal expenses
• Tips and gratuities
• Optional activities
• Entrance fees, if any, not specifically mentioned
• Expenses not specifically mentioned under Price Includes

This excursion is designed around cruise passengers' port schedules.

Please provide your cruise ship name, arrival time and departure time when booking so that the programme can be planned safely.

The exact country boat / Shikara may vary according to group size, water conditions and local availability.

The cruise is subject to weather and local conditions. In the event of heavy rain or adverse conditions, the route or boat arrangements may need to be modified for safety.

The excursion involves limited and easy walking and is suitable for guests who prefer a relaxed experience.

The advertised timing is 1:00 PM–6:00 PM. Actual timings may be adjusted slightly according to port procedures, traffic, boat operations and your ship's schedule.

✔ Designed especially for Cochin Port cruise passengers

✔ Convenient port pick-up and drop-off

✔ Traditional country boat / Shikara cruise

✔ Explore Kerala's peaceful backwater villages

✔ Experience authentic rural landscapes

✔ Enjoy beautiful afternoon light

✔ Comfortable A/C transportation

✔ Experienced local guide

✔ Limited walking

✔ Excellent photography opportunities

✔ Private and small-group options

✔ Suitable for couples, families and mature travellers

Contact Excel India Tours with the following details:

📅 Preferred travel date

👥 Number of guests

🚢 Cruise ship name

🕐 Arrival and departure times at Cochin Port

🏨 Hotel location, if applicable

📋 Any special requirements or preferences

We will check the availability of the country boat / Shikara, vehicle and guide and confirm the arrangements for your chosen date.

For guests staying outside Kochi, please provide your hotel location so that we can prepare a customised transportation quotation.

Leave the crowds behind and discover the quieter side of Kerala.

Cruise through peaceful waterways, pass coconut-lined villages, watch everyday rural life unfold beside the canals and enjoy the beautiful changing light of the afternoon.

Send us your travel date, cruise ship details and number of guests, and Excel India Tours will arrange your private or small-group backwater experience from Cochin Port.

Your Kerala backwater story begins here.