Popular Places for Enthralling Boat Rides in India

Go on a traditional Shikara ride down the picturesque Dal Lake, take a stylish cruise on the Ganges, or hop aboard a houseboat to explore unspoilt corners of the backwaters of Kerala – options are numerous, when it comes to selecting boat trips in India that reveal the myriad fascinating shades of the country. Scroll down to check out some of the most scenic boat rides in India.

Sunset Boat Cruise on Lake Pichola, Udaipur

Pichola Lake in Udaipur is one of the largest and most beautiful man-made lakes in India. And what can be a better way to explore its timeless beauty other than a boat cruise at dusk! Dotted along its shores are many historical buildings, while in the centre of the lake is the imposing Taj Lake Palace hotel, fondly called the “floating palace”. This hour long boat ride starts from the Rameshwar Ghat and takes tourists to the various islands and Ghats along the lake. At Jagmandir Island, passengers usually leave the boat to enjoy the surrounding gardens and have a drink or two at the bar there.

Houseboat Cruises through the Backwaters

Kerala is globally acclaimed for its vast network of lakes, rivers, and backwaters stretching through the lush wilderness. A houseboat cruise is perhaps the most enthralling way to discover the untamed beauty of these waterways. While making their way through the pristine waters, shadowed by the lush forests, tourists witness the incredible beauty of nature. These tours range from short boat rides to long stays on luxury houseboats. Alleppey, Kumarakoram, Kotayam, and Cochin are some popular destinations for a backwater tour in Kerala.

Shikara Boat Ride, Srinagar

The Shikaras, the Gondola-type light rowing boats, have a great cultural significance for the locals and a Shikara boat ride on the beautiful Dal Lake is a quintessential Kashmiri experience. The lake, surrounded by snow-capped hills, the historical Mughal Gardens and lush vegetation, promises a surreal boating experience. The early morning serenity coupled with breathtaking mountainous vistas is particularly inspiring. The banks of the Dal Lake, along the Boulevard road are lined with these traditional colourful boats and seem to beseech tourists to explore the timeless beauty of the region.

The Ganges Cruises, West Bengal

A luxury cruise along the holy River Ganges in West Bengal is a lovely way to experience India’s intriguing history and heritage. The tours are designed to offer guests a glimpse into West Bengal, the culturally-rich state of India. Excellent onboard facilities and services make the excursions all more delightful. There are different itineraries and tourists can choose from amongst various packages offered by local tour operators. A multiple-night tour from Farakka to Varanasi remains a popular choice.