Holidays with time on the water
A cruise in India is usually not a big ocean ship. It is more often an evening river cruise, a lake boat ride or a houseboat on the backwaters. These trips are relaxed and suit couples, families with children and older travellers. You sit, watch the shore go by and enjoy the breeze.
The Goa trip
Goa is the main package on this page. Panaji sits on the Mandovi river, where evening boat cruises with music and folk dance are popular with visitors. The rest of the trip covers beaches, old churches and markets. Check the package page to see if a river cruise is included or can be added.
- Bangalore to Goa by bus - 3 days, 2 nights
Other trips with boat rides
These trips are not cruises, but water is a big part of each one. Check each package page to see which boat rides are included.
- Munnar, Kumarakom and Alleppey from Kochi - 5 days, 4 nights. Alleppey and Kumarakom are famous for houseboats and canal rides.
- Munnar and Alleppey from Bangalore - 4 days, 3 nights by bus
- Puri, Konark and Chilika lake - 2 days, 1 night. Boats on Chilika lagoon often go out to look for dolphins.
- Nagarjuna Sagar with Buddhavanam - 2 days, 1 night. A launch crosses the reservoir to the Nagarjunakonda island museum.
Tips for boat trips
Always wear the life jacket given by the boat crew, and keep children seated. Boat services can stop in heavy rain or high water, especially from June to September. October to March is the best season for most water trips. Carry a cap, sunscreen and a light jacket for evening rides. Keep phones in a zip bag to protect them from spray. If you get seasick, eat lightly before a long ride and sit near the middle of the boat.
Frequently asked questions
Are there overnight cruises on this page?
Not at present. The trips here use day or evening boat rides. Ask us if you want an overnight houseboat stay in Kerala.
Where is the fare shown?
Each package page shows the current fare and what it includes.
Are boat rides safe for elderly people?
Yes, in most cases. Boarding can involve steps or a moving jetty, so a helping hand is useful.