Best Kerala Honeymoon Experiences: Should You Pick a Private Houseboat or a Shikara Ride? – Lumiere Holidays

Kerala, fondly called "God's Own Country," is celebrated as one of India’s most romantic honeymoon destinations. With its tranquil backwaters, verdant landscapes, and picturesque villages, it provides couples with an unforgettable retreat. Among the most cherished experiences are private houseboat cruises and charming shikara rides. Each offers a distinct romantic appeal—but which is the perfect fit for your honeymoon? Lumiere Holidays, counted among the best tour 0perators in South India, offers expert recommendations and beautifully crafted honeymoon packages to help you decide.

Private Houseboats: The Ideal Romantic Escape

Understanding Private Houseboats: Private houseboats in Kerala are essentially floating villas complete with modern conveniences. Often referred to as "kettuvallams," these boats offer honeymooners a cozy and exclusive retreat amidst the scenic backwaters of Alleppey and Kumarakom.

Romantic Highlights of Private Houseboats:

• Total Seclusion: These houseboats are solely reserved for you and your partner, ensuring utmost privacy and a peaceful ambiance.

• Premium Comforts: Equipped with spacious bedrooms, en suite bathrooms, air-conditioning, and sun decks, they provide all the comforts of a luxury stay.

• Personalized Dining: Relish authentic Kerala dishes freshly cooked and served onboard. Many houseboats also arrange candlelit dinners under the stars.

• Uninterrupted Views: Sail through landscapes dotted with lush paddy fields, towering coconut palms, and charming villages at your leisure.

• Best Suited For: Couples desiring an opulent, serene, and immersive honeymoon experience in Kerala.

Shikara Rides: Delightful Short Romantic Cruises

What is a Shikara Ride? Smaller, open wooden boats called shikaras, which resemble gondolas, are typically utilized for quick trips through Kerala's winding canals, particularly in Alleppey and Kumarakom.

Romantic Highlights of Shikara Rides:

• Perfect for Brief Escapes: Typically lasting from 1 to 3 hours, shikara rides are ideal for couples wanting to enjoy the backwaters without an overnight commitment.

• Close-Up Nature Encounters: Glide effortlessly through slender canals inaccessible to larger boats, allowing you to experience village life and nature up close.

• Affordable Luxury: Compared to private houseboats, shikara rides are more economical, making them a great choice for couples on a budget.

• Convenient Scheduling: Choose from sunrise, midday, or sunset rides to match your romantic mood.

• Best Suited For: Couples desiring a brief yet charming romantic outing during their Kerala honeymoon.

Top Places in Kerala for Houseboats and Shikara Rides – Lumiere Holidays

Kerala’s backwaters are among the most romantic settings in South India, and picking the right destination enhances your honeymoon experience. Lumiere Holidays, recognized as one of the best tour operators in South India, highlights some of the finest places where you can enjoy a memorable houseboat stay or shikara cruise.

• Alleppey (Alappuzha): Fondly called the "Venice of the East," Alleppey remains the top choice for houseboat lovers and shikara enthusiasts alike. With its vast network of backwaters, emerald paddy fields, and picturesque canals, it’s an idyllic spot for couples. Private houseboats drift across peaceful lakes, while shikara rides wind through charming village waterways.

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• Kumarakom:This serene and less congested backwater destination is situated on the shores of Vembanad Lake.Honeymooners can unwind on plush houseboats surrounded by coconut groves and bird sanctuaries. Shikara rides here are especially quiet and perfect for couples seeking tranquility.

• Kollam: If you're looking to explore off-the-beaten-path backwaters, Kollam's Ashtamudi Lake is an excellent choice. It offers genuine houseboat experiences and scenic shikara rides through untouched landscapes.

• Thiruvallam & Poovar: Located near Kovalam, Thiruvallam’s gentle waterways and Poovar’s estuarine beauty are ideal for short and sweet shikara rides, complementing a romantic beachside honeymoon.

With Lumiere Holidays, counted among the best tour operators in South India, you can explore these captivating destinations through personalized itineraries that combine the comfort of houseboats and the charm of shikara rides, crafting your perfect Kerala honeymoon.

Why Not Experience Both? Blend a Houseboat Stay with a Shikara Ride – Lumiere Holidays

When designing your Kerala honeymoon, why settle for just one option? For an unforgettable romantic escape, combine the lavish comfort of a private houseboat stay with the intimate charm of a scenic shikara ride. Lumiere Holidays, recognized as one of the best tour operators in South India, offers thoughtfully crafted packages that let you enjoy both these iconic backwater experiences seamlessly.

A stay on a private houseboat promises complete privacy, elegant interiors, and mouthwatering Kerala cuisine prepared fresh onboard. Spend your time drifting through the vast backwaters, watching vibrant sunsets from your personal deck, and savoring romantic candlelit dinners under the stars. But your journey doesn’t end there. Elevate your honeymoon by adding a shikara ride during the golden hours of morning or evening. Shikaras, being smaller and more maneuverable, take you through the narrow canals where houseboats can't venture—offering close encounters with village life, emerald landscapes, and exotic birds.

Combining these two experiences enriches your honeymoon with both luxury and authenticity. Lumiere Holidays, proudly ranked among the best tour operators in South India, curates customized Kerala honeymoon packages, giving couples the perfect mix of relaxation and exploration on the backwaters.

Best Time to Experience Houseboats and Shikara Rides in Kerala – Lumiere Holidays

• October to March: Perfect Weather for Honeymooners

The most favorable time to explore Kerala’s backwaters is from October to March, when the climate is cool and dry—ideal for outdoor exploration. Couples can revel in tranquil private houseboat stays under clear skies with refreshing breezes. Shikara rides during sunrise or sunset are particularly romantic, as the calm waters mirror the soft golden light, creating a peaceful ambiance. Lumiere Holidays, regarded as one of the best tour operators in South India, highly recommends this season for an unforgettable honeymoon.

• Monsoon Charm: June to September for Nature Enthusiasts

For couples drawn to the lush beauty of monsoons, June to September paints Kerala’s backwaters in rich greenery and tranquility. Although rain showers may limit cruise hours, the peaceful, less crowded waterways and vibrant landscapes create a truly magical experience. Shikara rides in a gentle drizzle add a poetic touch, making this an appealing time for those who love the romance of nature.

• Summer Escapes: April to May for Peaceful Retreats

During April and May, Kerala experiences warmer weather, but the backwaters remain quieter and offer attractive rates on houseboat stays. Couples can enjoy serene early morning shikara rides when the air is cooler or unwind in well-equipped, air-conditioned houseboats. Lumiere Holidays, among the best tour operators in South India, crafts your honeymoon to suit the season, ensuring memorable backwater adventures all year long.

What Awaits You Onboard: Cuisine, Seclusion, and Memorable Moments – Lumiere Holidays

A Kerala houseboat or shikara cruise offers far more than just a scenic ride through tranquil waters—it’s an immersive romantic escape featuring mouthwatering food, serene privacy, and captivating experiences. Lumiere Holidays, recognized as one of the best tour operators in South India, ensures your honeymoon is filled with these beautiful moments.

On a private houseboat, you’ll enjoy complete exclusivity and attentive service. With the entire boat reserved for just you and your partner, it's your personal haven on water. Each houseboat comes fully equipped with inviting bedrooms, modern en suite bathrooms, a sun deck for stunning views, and relaxing lounge spaces—all designed for your comfort and relaxation.Culinary delights are a highlight of your stay. Talented chefs craft authentic Kerala meals using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Savor traditional favorites like Kerala sadhya, freshly caught seafood, and flavorful curries—all customized to your preferences. Lumiere Holidays can even arrange romantic candlelight dinners on deck, making your evenings under the stars truly magical.

In addition to fine dining and privacy, expect captivating moments along the way. Glide past vibrant villages, hear the melodies of backwater birds, and witness breathtaking sunsets. Whether you're on an overnight houseboat stay or a short shikara ride, Lumiere Holidays—one of the best tour operators in South India—curates a romantic backwater experience you’ll cherish forever.

Why Lumiere Vacations Is the Best Option for Honeymoons in South India

Crafting the perfect honeymoon in South India calls for expert planning and thoughtful attention to detail—and Lumiere Holidays excels at both. Recognized as one of the best tour operators in South India, Lumiere Holidays specializes in creating personalized honeymoon packages that highlight the scenic beauty, rich culture, and romantic charm of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka.

What truly sets Lumiere Holidays apart is their bespoke approach to travel. Instead of offering standard packages, they carefully design every itinerary to match your unique preferences—whether that means gliding through Kerala’s serene backwaters, visiting ancient temples, or unwinding on peaceful beaches. With carefully selected stays, private transportation, and curated sightseeing, every part of your trip is flawlessly arranged. Couples especially appreciate the thoughtful romantic touches Lumiere Holidays includes, such as candlelit dinners, exclusive houseboat stays, and off-the-beaten-path excursions. Their trusted partnerships with the Best Travel Agency in South India guarantee exceptional service, reliability, and great value.

With round-the-clock assistance, honest pricing, and deep regional expertise, Lumiere Holidays transforms your South India honeymoon into a heartwarming journey full of romance, joy, and lasting memories.

Wrapping Up : Which Experience Complements Your Honeymoon Dream? – Lumiere Holidays

Deciding between a private houseboat and a shikara ride for your Kerala honeymoon ultimately depends on your personal travel preferences and how you envision your romantic getaway. For couples who seek a luxurious, all-day escape with complete privacy and captivating landscapes, a private houseboat offers the perfect retreat. You'll enjoy top-notch comfort, personalized attention, and uninterrupted quality time on Kerala’s mesmerizing backwaters. Alternatively, if you favor a brief yet enchanting experience that’s easy on the budget, a shikara ride is a wonderful choice. These peaceful cruises through narrow canals immerse you in the region’s local life and lush scenery, making them ideal for a sunrise or sunset excursion.For those who want to experience the best of both worlds, combining a houseboat stay with a shikara ride creates a truly unforgettable honeymoon. Relax in the comfort of your houseboat and complement it with a charming shikara ride to explore waterways that larger vessels cannot navigate.

Whichever option you select, Lumiere Holidays—recognized among the best tour operators in South India—carefully crafts every element of your journey, ensuring your Kerala honeymoon is effortlessly romantic, memorable, and perfectly suited to your love story.

FAQs

1. What is the main difference between a houseboat and a shikara ride in Kerala?

Houseboats are large, fully-equipped floating homes designed for overnight stays, while shikara rides are small boats ideal for short scenic trips.

2. Which is better for a honeymoon: private houseboat or shikara ride?

For privacy and luxury, choose a private houseboat. For a short romantic outing, a shikara ride is perfect.

3. Are houseboats in Kerala private or shared?

With Lumiere Holidays, honeymooners can book completely private houseboats for exclusive use.

4. How long does a typical shikara ride last?

The average duration of a Shikara ride is one to three hours, depending on your preferences.

5. Can we combine both houseboat stays and shikara rides in one trip?

Yes, Lumiere Holidays offers packages that include both for a complete backwater experience.

6. Is a shikara ride expensive?

Shikara rides are budget-friendly and affordable compared to houseboat stays.

7. How do I book a houseboat or shikara ride with Lumiere Holidays?

You can book through the Lumiere Holidays website or contact their travel experts.

8. Are shikara rides available in destinations other than Alleppey?

Yes, you can also enjoy shikara rides in Kumarakom, Kollam, and Poovar.

9. Is Wi-Fi available on houseboats?

Wi-Fi availability depends on the boat type; some premium houseboats offer connectivity.

10. Why choose Lumiere Holidays for Kerala honeymoons?

As one of the best tour operators in South India, Lumiere Holidays offers customized packages, expert planning, and 24/7 support.