Shikara boat ride, which takes visitors on a leisurely tour of Kerala’s tranquil backwaters.
A shikara is a small, traditional boat that is commonly found in Kerala’s backwaters. These boats have a flat bottom, making them ideal for navigating in shallow waters. Shikara boats are typically made of wood and decorated with intricate designs and colors.
Visitors can enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the backwaters, including lush green paddy fields, coconut groves, and charming villages, during a Shikara ride in Alleppey. The ride can be tailored to the visitors’ preferences, with visits to local temples, traditional fishing villages, and other cultural attractions available.
Overall, a Shikara ride in Alleppey is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Kerala, and it’s a great way to soak in the beauty and tranquility of the backwaters.Shikara is also commonly spelled as Shikara.
Shikara Boats in Alleppey an Overview
Shikaras in Alleppey are the mini versions of houseboats with a charm of its own. Shikara boats are the modern versions of traditional ‘Kochuvalloms.’ It offers a unique and enchanting experience.
The craftsmen made these Kochuvalloms in Alleppey specifically for narrow canals. Today’s version, the Shikara boat, consists of wood with a bamboo roof and incorporates eco-friendly materials such as coir and palm leaf. We furnish and equip these with modern-day comfort.
Shikara makes exploring narrow canals and backwaters easy, offering a unique experience compared to houseboats.
Explore Alleppey on a shikara to see the beauty of the backwaters and enjoy the peaceful surroundings up close. It is a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and experience the traditional way of life in Alleppey.
When visiting Alleppey, make sure to ride a shikara and explore the pretty canals and backwaters of this lovely area. Make sure to enjoy this thrilling adventure.
At Sanchari, the average rate for a Shikara ride in Alleppey is ₹3,000 for 3 hours for up to 5 passengers, effectively ₹1,000 per hour. For each additional person, it’s ₹250 per hour. There are different types of Shikara cruises in Alleppey
A sunset cruise in a shikara is the perfect way to relax and enjoy the exotic shades of the sun going down over the water. In a three-hour shikara ride, you will see the green beds of paddy fields and local life around the Alleppey backwaters. It provides a romantic and serene experience as you watch the sun rising or setting over the backwaters of Alleppey.
Want to take a private Shikara cruise from Alleppey to Kainakary and see the enchanting beauty of the Alleppey canals? Your trip starts at Alleppey Rajiv Jetty, goes through the beautiful Punnamada Canal, and ends at the calm Vembanad Lake, where you return to Rajiv Boat Jetty.
✅ Available cruise lengths :
- 3-Hour trip
- 4-hour trip
- 5-Hour trip
(You can pick how long you want it to last based on your schedule and comfort.)
Have you ever wanted to visit a mythological island ? Was that even on your bucket list ? Pathiramanal is a small island in the calm Vembanadu Lake in Alleppey. A 5-hour shikara tour is the best way to explore it.
Meeting Point – How to identify your Sanchari shikara
📍 Jetty (Exact Google Pin): We will share the exact Google Pin with you after booking
🕒 Reporting time: (please arrive 10 minutes early.)
📍 Live location (at pickup time): We will share the captain’s live location 15–20 minutes before boarding.
• The captain will call you once he reaches the jetty
• Please share your WhatsApp “live location” if you can’t find the boat
If you need help at the jetty, message us anytime.
Written by Jithu Tom, Alleppey shikara tour guide. 15+ years of experience
Last updated: March 1, 2026
