Budget houseboats in Kerala 
A budget houseboat is the cheapest way to enjoy Kerala backwaters (mainly Alleppey/Alappuzha & Kumarakom) without paying luxury prices. You still get the classic overnight cruise, Kerala food and village views — just with simpler interiors and limited AC.
Budget houseboat price (2026)
Typical rates for 1 night (2 people):
- ₹6,500 – ₹8,500 → Cheapest private houseboats
- ₹7,000 – ₹12,000 → Standard budget houseboats
- ₹2,000 – ₹5,000 per person → Shared houseboats (cheapest option)
Example starting price list:
- 1 Bedroom private budget: ₹8k–₹12k/night
- 2 Bedroom budget: ₹11k–₹16k/night
- Day cruise: ₹5k–₹7k approx
Prices increase on weekends, holidays and peak season (Oct–Feb).
What you get in a budget houseboat
Even the cheapest boats are all-inclusive packages.
Typical inclusions:
- Private bedroom + attached bathroom
- Night-time AC (usually 9pm–6am)
- Lunch, evening snacks, dinner & breakfast
- 5–6 hours backwater cruise
- Captain + cook + helper crew
- Village canal sightseeing
Budget boats are simple but comfortable and clean.
Types of budget options
Private budget houseboat (best value)
- Whole boat for your family/couple
- Privacy + meals included
- Most popular choice
Approx: ₹8k–₹12k/night
Shared houseboat (cheapest)
- Private bedroom but shared deck & dining
- Good for solo travellers & couples
Approx: ₹2k–₹5k per person
Day cruise (ultra budget)
- No overnight stay
- Cruise + lunch + sightseeing
Approx: ₹5k–₹7k for 2 people
Tips to get cheapest deal
From traveller experiences:
Best money-saving tips:
- Visit in May–September (off-season)
- Choose weekday check-in
- Book shared boat for lowest cost
- Avoid luxury add-ons (full-time AC, Jacuzzi etc.)
Conclusion
Budget houseboats in Kerala give you the full backwater experience at low cost. For ₹7k–₹10k per night, you get a private boat, meals, crew and a scenic cruise — making it one of India’s best value travel experiences. If you want the cheapest option, choose a shared houseboat; if you want privacy, go for a 1-bedroom private budget boat.