Sailing with Serenity: Top 10 Houseboat Destinations in India

Sailing through the waters, discovering marine life and exploring the beauty of forest regions, all of it does sound exhilarating. Waking up to a heartwarming sunrise that catches your glimpse through the tiny gaps in the woods, that’s exactly why you should consider staying in a houseboat. 

While India is known for Kerala backwaters, houseboats are not limited to just one state. Houseboat destinations in India are here for authentic experiences where you can feel all the luxury and excitement yourself with the local lifestyle. 

With many different places in India, you can easily choose the one that fits your budget and travel plans. Moreover, you can always opt for a 1-night stay in the houseboat and then head to Treebo hotels for a budget-friendly stay. So, let’s get going to uncover the hidden houseboat gems of the country.

The top 10 Houseboat Destinations in India are – 

1. Alleppey, Kerala 

Alleppey is one of the best destinations in India to experience the beauty of living in a houseboat. The best houseboat in Alleppey is equipped with premium rooms, a kitchen, a living area and whatnot! The surreal experience of floating on the waters while being in your comfort is indeed mesmerizing!

These houseboats in Alleppey are famous during the winter, and it is always a good idea to book them well in advance. Luxury houseboats also have an air-conditioning system, private parking, delicious meals and drinks. Check out affordable hotels in Alleppey to book a serene stay in the city.

Cost: INR 10000 to INR 40000+

2. Srinagar, Kashmir

When in Kashmir, you simply cannot miss experiencing staying in a houseboat in Srinagar. It is home to one of the serene and touristy lakes of the country called Dal Lake. Several houseboats in Srinagar flock around the lake offering an unmatching travel experience to you.

The elegantly designed houseboats in Srinagar are a perfect place to enjoy breathtaking views of the city. You are sure to enjoy large windows, open decks, cosy rooms and top-notch furnishings. Moreover, you can witness Kashmir interiors in every corner here. Here, you wake up to the chirping of birds, sunlight dashing through the woods and the authentic hospitality of Kashmiri locals.

Cost: INR 3000 to INR 30000 

3. Pondicherry, Tamil Nadu

If Kashmir is not on your list for houseboats, Pondicherry offers a similar sense of joy! Pondicherry houseboat is known for its secluded location as the location is underrated for houseboat stays. However, some companies run various houseboats offering luxury services including clean rooms, TV and a kitchen.

Most of the houseboats here are available at affordable rent, thereby giving you a privately romantic experience. Apart from this, you can get scrumptious meals while enjoying the sunset at famous beaches here. You may also check out hotels in Pondicherry to easily explore the city.

4. Udupi, Karnataka

Imagine the beautiful experience of sailing on the backwaters of Udupi and living a dreamy life here. Udupi in Karnataka offers a heartwarming houseboat stay experience running under the state Government. It takes you away from the chaos and lets you dive into the world of tranquillity.

The houseboats here are equipped with top-quality furnishings, cosy bedrooms, sanitized bathrooms and a kitchen. A luxury experience allows you to enjoy delicious meals and dine with the finest views of the waters. It gives you an amazing opportunity to witness flora and fauna along the journey. 

Cost: INR 5000 to INR 12000+

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5. Goa 

Being a famous beach destination, Goa attracts travellers from all over the world. While you might know it for the beach shacks and nightlife, however, Goa offers one of the best houseboat experiences in the country. Famous houseboat cruises are known for offering top-notch furnishings, personal rooms and mesmerizing views.

You can now get the comfort of living in a hotel in a houseboat in Goa. Houseboats here offer a kitchen, delicious meals, a bathtub, a lounge and a lot more. Moreover, sailing through the mangrove forest with your loved ones is a must. Also, check out budget-friendly hotels in Goa for a comfortable stay.

Cost: INR 4000 to INR 10000

6. Tarkarli, Maharashtra 

Maharashtra is now ready to transport you to all the Kerala vibes, with the only backwater destination here. Tarkarli is one of the unique houseboat destinations in India offering a secluded vacation away from the hustle of life. The Karli River operates two major houseboats offering different services.

You can either go for a luxury houseboat named Hiranyakeshi or a standard stay with a Karli houseboat. Both houseboats have cosy rooms and offer 3 meals with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Pleasant weather and hospitality add to the charm of your stay. So, be ready to go on this journey of adventure, thrill and heartwarming moments.

Cost: INR 1500 to INR 3000+

7. Konaseema, Andhra Pradesh 

The mighty Godavari River is all set to let you dive into a world of beauty and tranquillity at Konaseema. Located in the heart of Andhra Pradesh, Konaseema is a well-known destination that witnesses the flow of the Godavari River. Right here, you can find two huge houseboats operated by the government.

You can either opt for a day trip or choose to extend your stay to a night. Sailing through the river takes you to abundant greenways and sprawling coconut gardens. The houseboat also offers an exploration of small islands along the way. The rooms are super clean, cosy and have fresh bathrooms for your comfort.

Cost: INR 12000 to INR 15000

8. Barrackpore, West Bengal

History, architecture and ancient structures are all a part of Barrackpore’s beauty. Located an hour from Kolkata, Barrackpore witnessed the building of the British cantonment zone. It also attracted the sophisticated affluent classes to build riverside bungalows by the Ganges. Today, it serves as one of the scenic houseboat destinations of India.

If you are up for unfiltered panoramic views of the Ganges and its beauty, you need to be here. As the cool breeze flows through, you can enjoy soothing sunsets in your air-conditioned houseboats. The houseboat has clean bedrooms, an open area sitting, a pantry and a well-designed dining area. After a weekend getaway, check out affordable hotels in Kolkata for a great vacation.

Cost: INR 4000 Onwards 

9. Guwahati, Assam

Huge tea plantations and the famous Bihu dance; that’s exactly what Assam is best known for. The place is so much more than this as the Brahmaputra river flows through the state giving an opportunity for amazing houseboat stays. Many different houseboats are available along the river Brahmaputra, operated by private owners.

Most of these houseboats offer luxury living with high-end services, clean bedrooms, authentic meals and BBQ Grill. As you soak in the awe-inspiring views of sunset and sunrise, know that you’re taking home memories of an exciting expedition. You may also check out hotels in Guwahati for an extended stay in the city. 

Cost: INR 7000 to INR 15000+

10. Kumarakom, Kerala

Kerala is all about moving through the waters and enjoying the journey as you sail. If you want to avoid touristy spots, Kumarakom is one of the best places for a houseboat stay. Houseboats here sail through the Vembanad lake, offering a rejuvenating time to you. Right from standard rooms to luxury ones, you can find them all here.

Most houseboats here are equipped with attached bathrooms, linen beds, dining space, kitchen and air-conditioning system. It allows you to witness the local lifestyle of people along the banks of the river. Tiny settlements and small villages also become a part of your sailing journey. So, make sure to capture this beauty and opt for an overnight stay in the backwaters.

Cost: INR 8000 to INR 15000

Staying in a houseboat and floating through the rivers and backwaters of India is indeed one of the things you must have on your bucket list. After all, our hearts take interestingly unique and worthy experiences in the journey of living.