Hidden in the quiet backwaters near Kottayam in Kerala, Malarikkal transforms into a surreal pink paradise each monsoon. Spread across over 2,000 acres of paddy fields, this sleepy village bursts into life when water lilies bloom in full glory—floating like a pink carpet over emerald waters. What was once a natural but unnoticed seasonal bloom has now become a sought-after Instagram-famous destination, thanks to stunning photos shared by early visitors.

I visited Malarikkal with my family, and it was an experience none of us will ever forget. From the moment we stepped onto the narrow wooden boat to the final stretch through lily-covered waters, it felt like we had stumbled into a water lily tapestry, untouched by time.

If you’re planning to experience this one-of-a-kind water lily boat ride during Kerala monsoon, there’s more to it than just hopping on a boat. From picking the right time to visit, to knowing how to capture the perfect photos, this guide will help you plan the ultimate Malarikkal water lily boat ride experience.

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🌸 Malarikkal Water Lily Season & Best Time to Visit

The Malarikkal water lily boat ride is a seasonal experience, dependent on the monsoon rains that flood the paddy fields with 4–5 feet of water. Once the fields are filled, thousands of pink water lilies bloom, transforming the area into a surreal floral landscape.

In earlier years, August to October was considered the best time to visit. However, starting in 2024, water levels began to drop by early October, and the lily bloom significantly declined in the second half of the month.

✅ Best Time in 2025

As of this year, the ideal blooming season is from late June to mid-September, with August offering the most spectacular views.
We visited in mid-July, and while there was a good bloom, we’ve seen photos from August and early September showing a thicker, uninterrupted pink blanket of lilies across the fields.

☔ Rain vs. Bloom Timing

One added benefit of visiting in August is the lower chance of rain during your boat ride.
Since July is peak monsoon in Kerala, we experienced a light drizzle on our return from the lake. Had we started even 15–20 minutes later, we might have missed the ride altogether due to worsening weather.

⏰ Daily Boating Time

• Boating hours: 6:30 AM to 9:30 AM
• Best time to arrive: As early as possible
  • The lilies begin to droop under the sun after 9:30 AM, so for the freshest blooms and softest light, try to start your ride by 7:00 AM.

How to Reach Malarikkal

Malarikkal is a serene village located approximately 8 km from Kottayam town and 13 km from Kumarakom. It is well-connected by road, though the final stretch is narrow and rural—adding to its rustic charm.

🚗 From Kochi

If you’re starting early in the morning, the best route is:

• Via Cherthala–Arookuty Road – Takes about 1 hour 45 minutes
  • This is the fastest and smoothest drive in the early hours.

The second-best option is:

• Via SH15 through Thalayolaparambu – Around 2 hours
  • Slightly longer, but a good alternative if traffic is light.

⚠️ Avoid the Alappuzha–Arthunkal–Kochi Road, as it often experiences long delays due to ongoing road repairs.

🚘 From Kottayam

You can reach Malarikkal via either of the following:

• Kottayam–Thiruvarpu Road
• Kottayam–Kumarakom Road

Both routes are well-paved and scenic, eventually merging toward the boating point.

📍 Final Stretch

All routes converge at the Thiruvarpu–Kanjiram Jetty Road. The last 3 km is a narrow, winding road that leads directly to the Malarikkal boating point.

You’ll know you’ve arrived when you:

• Spot the boats lined up
• See the fields covered in pink water lilies

🅿️ Parking Info

• Four-wheeler parking is available near the boating area.
• Charge: ₹30 per vehicle (nominal, cash preferred)

Malarikkal Water Lily Boating Price

Boating at Malarikkal is surprisingly well-organized and peaceful, unlike many other tourist hotspots where chaos rules the shore.

Each morning, boatsmen are assigned a number in rotation, and rides are given in that order. This system ensures you won’t be overwhelmed by boat operators crowding around or competing for attention—it’s calm, systematic, and tourist-friendly.

💰 Boating Charges:

• ₹100 per person for a 30-minute short ride
• ₹1,000 per boat for a 1-hour ride that goes deeper into the lake

You can pay either in cash or conveniently through UPI.

We chose the ₹1,000 longer ride, and it was absolutely worth it. The boatsman took us to a more secluded part of the lake, away from all the other boats. The result? Uninterrupted views of endless pink water lilies floating on dark green leaves, perfect for stunning photographs. The serene setting and lack of background clutter made the whole experience feel magical—and our pictures turned out beautifully.

Malarikkal Water Lily Boating: What to Expect

One of the first things that strikes you when you arrive at Malarikkal is the genuine warmth and hospitality of the local community. We were first greeted by a friendly local woman selling bundles of freshly plucked water lilies for just ₹30. Since we were planning to take photos during the ride we bought a bunch from her right away.

Soon after, a boatsman approached us and calmly guided us to his boat. There was no shouting or scrambling like you often see at other tourist spots. Here, everything is surprisingly well-organized—boatsmen are assigned a number each morning and take turns in that order. This system ensures a peaceful and respectful experience for everyone.

Malarikkal’s stunning scenery unfolds across more than 2,000 acres of paddy fields, which get naturally flooded during the Kerala monsoon. The water depth varies from 4–5 feet in shallow areas to about 8 feet at its deepest points. While life jackets aren’t provided, we never once felt unsafe. We were a group of five—including two senior citizens and a young child—and all of us boarded a single boat comfortably. Larger boats can accommodate up to eight adults for the longer ride, and the locals assured us that there has not been a single safety incident in over five years of tourism here.

The ride itself is a blend of gentle motor-powered cruising and quiet, hand-rowed gliding once you reach the blooming water lilies. As the boat gently cut through the green expanse dotted with pink blooms, we not only soaked in the beauty but also enjoyed a lovely conversation with our boatsman. He shared the story of how Malarikkal—once a quiet farming village—rose to fame through Instagram, and how this tourism boom has positively impacted the livelihood of many local families.

What makes boating at Malarikkal truly special is not just the breathtaking visuals but the entire experience woven with authenticity. It’s a rare kind of tranquility where tradition, nature, and warm community spirit come together—a simple boat ride that turns into a cherished memory.

Tourist Facility at Malarikkal

Malarikkal is essentially a small village that comes alive as a tourist destination only during the monsoon months, when the paddy fields are flooded and the iconic pink water lilies bloom.

Interestingly, our boatsman shared that the lilies have bloomed here for as long as he can remember, but tourism picked up only recently—thanks to Instagram! What was once a quiet local phenomenon has now become a seasonal photo hotspot.

Due to its short tourist season and relatively recent popularity, facilities remain quite limited:

• There are no restaurants in Malarikkal.
• You’ll find a few local tea stalls offering:
  • Banana fritters (pazham pori)
  • Tea and coffee
  • Packaged snacks like chips, biscuits, and bottled water
• These stalls also sell basic essentials like tissues or diaper.

🚻 Restroom Availability

There are no official public toilets at Malarikkal.
However, kind local households along the roadside allow tourists to use their private washrooms, typically free of charge. While informal, this hospitality reflects the warmth of the community.

What to Carry with You for a Malarikkal Boat Ride

A boat ride through the pink water lilies of Malarikkal is a serene and beautiful experience—but a little preparation goes a long way in making it comfortable too. Here’s a quick checklist of essential things to carry:

🕶️ Sunglasses & Hats

The glare from the water can be surprisingly intense, especially during the early morning hours when the sun reflects off the lake surface.
We faced this ourselves at the start of our ride—looking east into the rising sun made it hard to even keep our eyes open.
👉 Pack sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat or cap to shield your eyes and face.

☔ Umbrella (One for Every Two People)

If you’re visiting between June and early August, there’s a high chance of sudden showers.
We got caught in a brief downpour at the far end of the field and had to anchor near a muddy fence while we waited it out—with umbrellas propped over our heads.

👉 Carry at least one umbrella for every two people, even on seemingly clear mornings.

💧 Water Bottle

The boat ride may only last 30–60 minutes, but the heat and humidity—especially after the rains—can leave you feeling surprisingly tired or thirsty.
👉 Bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated.

🍪 Light Snacks

If you’re heading out early without breakfast (like we did), you might feel hungry mid-ride. Having a few light snacks on hand makes the experience even more enjoyable.
👉 Carry biscuits, fruits, or homemade snacks—something easy to munch on while you admire the blooms.

⚠️ Please do not litter!
Keep a small bag for your trash, and take it back with you. The beauty of Malarikkal lies in its untouched natural setting—let’s keep it that way.

Tips for Beautiful Photos at Malarikkal

One of the most magical parts of a Malarikkal water lily boat ride is how photogenic the experience is. I’m not a professional photographer—but with just my mobile camera and some planning, I managed to get some truly stunning shots. Here’s what helped me get those dreamy, frame-worthy photos:

👗 1. Wear Pink (or Go Traditional!)

If you take just one tip from this list—wear pink!
The soft pink tones pop beautifully against the deep green lily leaves and the blue-grey sky, creating a vibrant, romantic contrast in your photos.

Alternatively, go traditional: a Kerala saree or mundu adds a rustic and cultural charm that blends perfectly with the village setting and lily-covered waters.

✅ Pro tip: Choose flowy, light fabrics that move with the breeze—they photograph beautifully!

🌸 2. Buy Water Lilies Before the Ride

Near the jetty, you’ll likely see an auntie selling bunches of water lilies. Buy a bunch (Rs. 30) before you get on the boat. Why?

• You’ll have them ready for your photos from the moment the boat sets off.
• If you wait to pluck them during the ride, you’ll waste time, the boat will sway, and you might lose your balance.
• Plus, the early part of the ride has the best light—don’t miss it fiddling with flowers!

✅ Photo idea: Hold a bunch gently in your lap or use it to frame your face for natural, elegant shots.

🚣‍♀️ 3. Pick a Long, Narrow Boat

If you get a choice, go for a slender, traditional canoe-style boat instead of the wider tourist ones.

• These boats look more aesthetic in photos.
• The narrow shape creates cleaner lines, more negative space, and a better composition, especially for solo or couple shots.
• You’ll look more “placed” in nature rather than lost in a big boat.

✅ Don’t be shy to ask the boatman if a narrow boat is available—especially on less busy days, they’re often flexible.

🌤️ 4. Watch the Light and Sky Direction

Lighting can make or break your photos, especially on the water. Here’s how it works at Malarikkal:

• From the jetty to the field, the boat moves east to west, with morning sunlight falling on you—perfect for warm, flattering photos.
• Once you’re in the middle, the boat turns north-south, giving even, shadow-free lighting with no direct glare.

🎨 Color tip:

• A bright sky gives cooler, clearer tones.
• Cloudy skies shift the color palette to warmer, moodier hues—great for dramatic portraits or couple shots.

We took some of our best photos under a dark, cloudy sky—it added mood and depth to the pictures. Don’t panic if the light changes—use it to tell a story.

🛶 Bonus Tips for Composition & Color:

• Sit low in the boat to capture the expanse of lilies around you.
• Shoot from the front or back of the boat for leading lines that draw the viewer into the photo.
• Avoid overly busy prints or dull tones in your outfit—stick to solid colors that contrast nature.
• Take wide angle shots to capture the subject in a canvas of pink and green.

With these simple but powerful tips, you don’t need a DSLR or any fancy gear to come back with beautiful memories. Just a little light, a little color, and a touch of local charm goes a long way.

Best Restaurants near Malarikkal for Breakfast

Since Malarikkal is a remote village with emerging, seasonal tourism, finding a good restaurant nearby—especially for breakfast—can be a bit tricky. There are no established restaurants in or around the boating point itself. For now, you’ll need to travel around 7 kilometers or more to find quality food options, particularly if you’re heading towards Kumarakom after your ride.

🥣 Recommended Breakfast Spots (via Kumarakom route):

1. Qualitys Inn – The Premium Restaurant

We had our breakfast at Qualitys Inn, and it turned out to be the closest and most reliable choice. They served a hearty South Indian breakfast with dishes like appam and stew, and puri bhaji. The place was clean, service was quick, and they also had a well-maintained restroom, which was a huge plus after the boat ride.

Other Options:

2. Dubai Hotel & Restaurant, Kumarakom
   • Popular with both locals and tourists
   • Good variety and spacious seating

3. Mariam’s Eatery
   • A cozy, lesser-known spot
   • Offers homemade-style food with a warm, welcoming vibe
   •  

What to Explore Near Malarikkal

Here are some top attractions to explore near Malarikkal after your water lily boat ride. I recommend Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, a ride on a shikara or houseboat (if you are in large group) at Cheepunkal, and Thannermukkam Bund for sunset if you are on the Kumarakom route. If you are traveling towards Kottayam, consider exploring the Aksharam Museum and the new Kottayam Lulu Mall.

1. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

Nestled along the banks of Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a paradise for bird lovers, especially during migratory seasons. You can spot rare species like Siberian storks, herons, and egrets as you walk along peaceful forested trails.

2. Cheepunkal Houseboat and Shikara Ride Point

Experience the charm of Kerala’s backwaters with a houseboat or shikara ride starting from Cheepunkal, offering serene views of coconut groves and village life. It’s a relaxing way to explore the unique waterways and enjoy a slice of tranquil rural Kerala.

3. Thanneermukkam Bund

Thanneermukkam Bund is a scenic barrier separating the salty sea water from the freshwater of Vembanad Lake. It’s a calm spot for photography, birdwatching, and enjoying beautiful sunset views over the vast waters.

4. Aksharam Museum

The Aksharam Museum in Kottayam is a cultural treasure trove featuring antique manuscripts, sculptures, and traditional art forms. It’s an enriching stop for those interested in Kerala’s literary and artistic heritage.

5. Kottayam Lulu Mall

Kottayam Lulu Mall offers a modern shopping and entertainment experience with top retail brands, a multiplex, and diverse dining options. It’s a great place to unwind after a day of sightseeing or to enjoy some air-conditioned comfort.

Wrapping Up: Planning a Malarikkal Water Lily Boat Ride

A boat ride through the water lily fields of Malarikkal is not just about sightseeing—it’s about slowing down, soaking in nature, and connecting with a local community that has warmly embraced this unexpected wave of tourism. Despite its recent popularity, Malarikkal retains its rustic charm, peaceful rhythm, and a sense of authenticity that makes it so memorable.

There’s a rare magic to Malarikkal, and I know in my heart that I’ll return one day—not just to see it again, but to feel it all over once more.