Kerala's Backwaters and Fishing Nets

Kerala's Backwaters and Fishing Nets Enjoy the mesmerizing Kerala backwaters on this relaxing full day houseboat guided tour. Your expert guide will focus on your comfort and relaxation as you marvel at beautiful backwater sights and also visit the Chinese Fishing nets, characteristic of Fort Cochin. Experience the backwater village life and enjoy lunch at a farm house when you discover this Alleppey houseboat tour is perfect if you're searching for a unique experience and want to see India's natural beauty. Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha, rests on the Western side of the Arabian Sea. The remarkable network of rivers flowing into it gave Alappuzha the nickname ""The Venice of the East"" in the early 20th century. Explore this region of India's natural beauty by booking your excursion now. Your houseboat tour begins with comfortable transportation from Port Cochin when you drive to Poothotta Backwater Village, approximately 45-minutes ride, to your beautifully crafted Kerala wooden houseboat. Before cruising the waterways, take a walking tour around Fort Kochi, a well-preserved historic neighborhood that reflects Cochin's colonial past. See the magnificent Chinese fishing nets that were a gift to Kochi from Chinese traders during the reign of Kublai Khan. Continue to St. Francis Church, one of the oldest European churches in India and built by Portuguese Franciscan friars in 1503. Also admire the Santa Cruz Basilica, an architecturally impressive Catholic church, view the soaring spires and white-washed exterior and beautiful canvas murals inside. Meander around Mattancherry Palace and admire the amazing murals depicting scenes from Hindu legends. Your palm-fringed backwaters cruise is on a private houseboat that is a traditional thatched craft typical of this area where these boats have been plying the waterways for centuries, connecting villages and transporting rice, spices and other goods. Gently cruising through scenic backwaters and village areas, you'll marvel at lush vegetation, paddy fields, coconut palms, and other noteworthy sights. At lunch time you'll enjoy a delicious and typical Keralan meal freshly prepared at a farm house. After completing your cruise, transfer back to Fort Cochin and the harbor area. Dress lightly for the season and wear walking shoes for maximum comfort. Please Note: A tourist visa is required to debark in India. Cruise lines do not usually provide this visa, therefore, you will need to obtain one prior to your cruise.