There are actually no houseboats departing directly from Kovalam itself. Kovalam is known for its beaches, while houseboats are a popular experience in the backwaters further north in Kerala, particularly around Alappuzha (Alleppey) and Kumarakom.
However, this doesn't mean you can't enjoy a houseboat experience if you're staying in Kovalam. Many travel agencies offer Kovalam Alleppey houseboat tours that combine a stay in Kovalam with a houseboat trip on the backwaters. These tours typically involve a transfer from Kovalam to Alleppey (around a 4-hour drive) where you'll board your houseboat.
Here's a possible itinerary for a 2-day Kovalam Alleppey houseboat tour:
Day 1: Pick up from your hotel in Kovalam and transfer to Alleppey. Check in to your houseboat and enjoy a leisurely cruise through the backwaters. Take in the lush vegetation, coconut palms, and traditional villages along the canals. In the evening, enjoy a delicious Kerala meal prepared on board the houseboat.
Alleppey backwaters KeralaDay 2: Spend the morning exploring the backwaters further. You might stop to visit a local village or do some shopping for souvenirs. In the afternoon, transfer back to Kovalam and relax on the beach.
While Kovalam itself may not have houseboats, a Kovalam Alleppey houseboat tour is a great way to experience the best of both worlds: the beaches of Kovalam and the backwaters of Kerala.