About Alleppey
Alappuzha (Alleppey) is known as ‘the Venice of the East’. Offering the best tourist places in Alleppey, this charming place is the hub of Kerala’s backwaters and is home to a huge network of backwaters and more than thousand houseboats. The houseboats you find in the backwaters of Alappuzha are in fact a reworked version of the Kettuvallams of olden times. Kettuvallam is a Malayalam word, ‘Kettu’, means living structures and ‘Vallom’ means boat. In the olden days, kettuvallam or boat with a thatched roof that covers over wooden hulls was used to carry tons of rice and spices.
The modern houseboats are equipped with all the comforts of a good hotel room like air conditioners, modern toilets, cozy living rooms, a kitchen and even a balcony for angling. An uninterrupted view of life in the backwaters fringed with coconut trees can be enjoyed from a houseboat. A perfect place to unwind with its laidback canals and lush greenery. The Alappuzha beach with a 137-year-old pier extending into the sea and an old 17th-century lighthouse built by the Portuguese add to the magic of the place. It is famous for its boat races, marine products, and coir industry.
So get ready to wander around this small but chaotic city center and bus-stand area, with its modest grid of canals. Head west to the beach or in practically any other direction towards the backwaters and Alleppey becomes elegant and greenery-fringed, waning into a watery world of hamlets, punted canoes, toddy shops and, of course, houseboats. Float along and gaze over paddy fields of succulent green, curvaceous rice barges and village life along the banks. Indeed, it is here that nature has spent upon the land her richest bounties. Come and explore the best tourist places in Alleppey.
Weather in Alleppey
Months – March to May
Avg. temperature – 27°C to 36°C
Weather – Hot and humid with bright sunny days
Crowd density – Low
Budget – Low
Clothes to pack – Light cotton clothes, sunglasses, sunscreen, breathable footwear
Months – June to September
Avg. temperature – 24°C to 30°C
Weather – Frequent rainfall with cool breezes and lush greenery
Crowd density – Moderate
Budget – Moderate
Clothes to pack – Umbrella or raincoat, quick-dry clothes, waterproof footwear, mosquito repellent
Months – October to February
Avg. temperature – 20°C to 32°C
Weather – Pleasant and comfortable, ideal for houseboat cruises and sightseeing
Crowd density – High
Budget – High
Clothes to pack – Light cotton clothes, full-sleeve tops for evenings, comfortable walking shoes
Places to Visit in Alleppey
This is known throughout Kerala as one of the best beaches accredited to its intrinsic natural beauty. The beach’s celebrated history as a prominent port city is well depicted in its 137-year-old pie that stretches out to the sea. The beauty of this beach is further amplified by an ancient lighthouse, dense palm groves and a beautiful garden. Picnicking and relaxing at the beach are the most common activities carried out by tourists here.
Krishnapuram Palace was constructed in the 18th century by Raja Marthanda Varma Maharaja. Today the palace is an archaeological museum that houses an exquisite range of antique sculptures and paintings. The palace is also famous for its architecture and mural paintings. You’ll have to pay an entry fee of INR 25 to visit this palace.
Alleppey’s Backwaters can be referred to as a mirage of what heaven might look on a serene day. The city has a very peculiar feature of having the water at the level of the land. Conclusively, the people who cruise on the backwaters get to closely observe the village life on the shore.
Kuttanad is known as the ‘rice bowl of Kerala’. It is known for its green paddy fields. Adding to its beauty is the detailed network of inland waterways that flow above the ground level.
The Ambalapuzha Temple is known as the Dwarka of the South. It is particularly famous for its exquisite mural paintings. You can plan a visit during the Ambalapuzha Temple Festival. Do try the Ambalapuzha Palpayasam which is a specialty here.
The magnificent Marari Beach is situated about 11 km from Alleppey. Its idyllic surroundings make it the most happening place to take a romantic stroll. The views of the beach during sunrise and sunset are simply breathtaking.
Things to do in Alleppey
The small village of Kuttanad is all about waterways, paddy fields, coconut lines, and boastful spice cultivation. Here, you can try out the lip-smacking local cuisine to burst your mouth with flavors. You may also take a stroll with your loved one and enjoy the enthralling view of nature.
Location: Alappuzha, Kottayam, Pathanamthitta
Do you want to savor the beauty of the backwater region and indulge in the activity of bird-watching in Alleppey? Then, kayaking through the waterways of the city would be an ideal option for you. While going on the tour, you can see various birds, such as Stork Billed, White-Breasted Waterhen, Asian Palm Swift, etc.
Location: 16/351, Near Vazhicherry Bridge Opp: Indian Oil Petrol Pump, Santhanam ward, Kerala 688001, India
Entry Fee: INR 4,000 (approximately)
Timings: 9:30 AM to 7:15 PM
The practice of Ayurveda in Kerala does not need any introduction and, if you want to experience the same firsthand, then going to a spa does make sense. The Krishna Center can be an amazing option for you in this aspect, as it offers its massages, spa treatments, and other options at an affordable range to offer you the ultimate relaxation.
Location: North of Ramada Hotel, Punnamada Road, Alappuzha, Kerala 688013, India
Entry Fee: Starts from INR 1,000
Timings: 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM
The Alappuzha Shoreline of Alleppey is a calm, quaint, and serene location, which oozes romanticism from its core. So, if you want to make your trip a little bit more amorous and rosy for both of you, then be sure to take a walk here during the afternoon. There is also a huge left-alone lighthouse available here, which can provide you with an excellent place to capture some amazing shots.
Location: CCSB Rd, Civil Station Ward, Alappuzha, Kerala 688012, India
Colloquially called as the "Dwarka of the South", the Ambalapuzha Temple houses a beautiful statuette of Lord Krishna. The different facets of the same are filled with mural paintings, holy phrases, and the sound of prayers. Be sure to visit here during the Ambalapuzha Temple Festival to relish the true essence of the place.
Location: SH 12, Ambalapuzha, Kerala 688561, India
The houseboats and the backwaters of Alleppey city are almost like soul sisters to each other. To experience an enthralling escapade from the hectic lifestyle of the metropolis, be sure to stay here for at least one night. The environment will be quite quaint, especially after the dark. The inside and the bed of the houseboat will be much more snuggly. The foods served here for your dinner are also freshly cooked and, thus, will taste pretty amazing.
Location: Alleppey Backwaters
Official Partnerships
Resorts to stay in Alleppey
Resorts in Alleppey are simply an extension of the breathtaking picturesque backwaters of Kerala.
1. Erandia Marari Ayurveda Beach Resort: This 13-room resort is famous for its Ayurveda treatment and a calm and serenity. The tariff charges are 10.980 INR onwards.
2. El Oceana Beach Villa is an Ayurvedic resort that boasts its Keralite heritage architecture. Experience living in a local traditional home and visit the countryside to explore the unexploited beaches in the vicinity of the resort. The tariff charges are 8200 INR per night.
3. Xandari Pearl is a simple and elegant resort with 20 private villas with a huge plunge pool and relaxed outdoor seating area with sunbeds and hammock. The tariff charges are 21,250 INR onwards.
4. Lake Palace Resort is one of the most sought after and beautiful resorts built on an island on the banks of Vembanad Lake. The tariff charges are INR 8,300 onwards.
5. Vasundhara Sarovar Premiere: A luxury resort in Alleppey has something for everyone from water sports, romantic boat houses to blissful Ayurvedic massages. The tariff charges are 7,825 INR onwards.
Places to experience local cuisine in Alleppey
Kerala food is a gastronomic delight, and some of the best places to eat local food are
1. ‘Vembanad Restaurant’ is a lovely poolside joint in Alleppey Prince Hotel. It serves mouth-watering fish curry and prawn rice.
2. ‘Harbour Restaurant’ in Raheem Residency Hotel is known for its pepper grilled chicken and open-air sea-facing ambience.
3. ‘Mushroom’ on CCSB road is known for tasty halal meats.
4. ‘Kream Korner’ on Mullackal South of Temple is perfect for Thai food, Mochoo noodles, and spring rolls.
5. ‘Thaff’ is an ordinary small restaurant famous for quality Indian and Middle Eastern dishes.
Alleppey Most Popular Tours
Alleppey Most Popular Activities
Alleppey FAQ's
How many days are required for a complete tour of Alleppey?
Approximately 3-4 days are sufficient to see Alleppey and visit nearby places. It won’t take longer.
What are the best public transport modes to commute around Alleppey?
Different modes of public transport in Alleppey are
1. An excellent network of buses that connect most parts of the town. There are state run buses that also connect Alleppey with other nearby cities in Kerala.
2. Taxi services are ideal to explore the attractions of Alleppey.
3. Auto-rickshaws are a reliable means to move within the town and are cheaper than taxis
4. Ferries and houseboats are perfect to reach places in Kuttanad which are not accessible by land.
What are the best places of shopping in Alleppey?
The best shopping places in Alleppey are:
1. The central area of Alleppey town called Mullackal where you can find a number of gold and silver shops.
2. Floating Triveni is a unique floating market. It is owned by the state cooperative and is recognized as a red and white chequered boat. The Floating Triveni Store sells everything you may need right from shampoos and health drinks to TVs and refrigerators.
3. Canal Bazaar is famous all over the region for its wonderfully flavoured spices. The market consists of small shops made of tiny wooden platforms selling several varieties of fresh and aromatic spices. The banana chips, jackfruit chips, and tapioca chips, freshly fried inside the shops in coconut oil, are also a speciality.
4. St. Thomas Fine Arts in Champakulam has a premium collection of the finest quality wooden statues, icons, and handicrafts. The fine wood and stone-carved handicrafts made of bamboo, rosewood, teakwood, etc. are bedazzling.
5. Krishna Textile Shop is located at a distance of just 0.6 km from the main city of Alappuzha. It is a good place if you want to buy some clothes or the traditional attire of Kerala. It is also known for its coir products, and souvenirs.The best buys of this place include textile products, carpet, mattress, rugs, doormats, etc.
What different kinds of houseboats are available in Alleppey?
Several different categories of houseboat cruises are available.
1. Deluxe houseboats which start from 6000 INR and AC is available only from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m.
2. Premium houseboats starting from 9000 INR onwards with full time AC.
3. Luxury houseboats starting from 11,000 INR with full time AC and other modern amenities.
Which are some of the best houseboat cruises in Alleppey? How much will it cost?
There are many houseboat cruises in Alleppey, check them out below and book one for your next trip.
1. Pournami Houseboats has 4 bedrooms and bathrooms and is equipped with all modern comforts and amenities. It is available for 15,000 INR onwards.2. River view houseboat with 2 bedrooms is a luxury houseboat at 18,000 INR approximately.
3. Nova Holidays Houseboat is a 3 bedroom property with all modern amenities at 13,000 INR per night.
4. Genesis Houseboats with 2 bedrooms for 14,000 INR onwards.
5. Aqua Castle Houseboats with 2 bedrooms is for 13,000 INR onwards.
What are some of the best romantic experiences in Alleppey for a honeymoon?
The exotic backwaters and inland waterways in and around Alleppey provide for some of the most romantic moments.
1. In a fully equipped floating houseboat, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery around in the company of your loved one.
2. Marari Beach and Alleppey Beach are stunning to watch a sunset with your significant other.
3. Edathua Church is one of the oldest churches in Alleppey with its charming Portuguese architecture.
4. Pathiramanal is a small beautiful island in the Vembanad Lake is full of surreal natural beauty.
Which are some famous beaches in Alleppey?
1. Alleppey Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Kerala due to its intrinsic beauty. There is a charming lighthouse and a 137 year old pier on the sea.
2. Marari Beach (11km) with idyllic surroundings is an ideal place to unwind and gaze at the endless sea.
Which are some of the best Ayurvedic Spas in Alleppey?
Kerala massage is famous for its therapeutic and rejuvenating experiences for body and soul.
1. Ayur Bhadra Ayurveda has therapies that have an edge and stands apart in the crowd. You can enjoy the best of Panchakarma treatment at reasonable rates with assured care and post-treatment.
2. Sreekrishna Ayurveda Panchkarma Center is known for therapeutic massages from experienced masseurs
3. Samanga Ayurveda Wellness Center offers you a consultation with Ayurveda doctors to get the right treatment procedures and to seek advice for dealing with your health-related problems.
4.Marari and Kalarippayattu Flow Center has courses in Hatha Yoga and meditation courses along with spa treatments
5.Osho Golden Flower is a meditation retreat with courses on meditation and dance sessions.
Which is mostly preferred among houseboats-Alleppey or Kumarakom?
The best cruise is Alappuzha-Kumarakom cruise which allows travelers to check in Kumarakom and check out at Alappuzha or vice versa at a nominal additional charge. Tourists can enjoy the beauty of both backwaters.While in Kumarakom, you may have a glimpse of all luxury resorts and bird sanctuary while on cruise and can travel in less traffic. The longest house boat cruise in Kerala, Alapuzha-Kollam is a charming experience.
What are the other inexpensive and affordable alternatives to relish in the Alleppey backwaters?
For backpackers and travelers with a limited budget, there are other options to explore the backwaters
- Public Ferries run for sightseeing and it goes back and forth along a few of the largest canals. The two hour return trip cost 40 INR per person each way.
- The Chakra is a large, covered longboat filled with plush chairs. They vary in size from comfortably seating 6 people to maybe 20+ people. It will cost upto 300 INR.
- Canoe for 150 INR for a 2 hour tour of the backwaters is a good option with a personal oarsman who will take you though smallest canals.
Where can we enjoy the Kathakali performance in Alleppey?
A daily performance at 7 p.m. at 200 INR is done in Temple View Arts and Kathakali Centre Opp Udupi Sreekrishna Temple.
When does Snake Boat Race happen in Alleppey? What’s so special about it?
The Nehru Trophy Boat Race takes place on the second Saturday of August every year. On the day of this fiercely fought boat race, the tranquil lake front is transformed into a sea of humanity with an estimated two lakh people, including tourists from abroad for watching it. For the people of each village in Kuttanad, a victory at this race for their village boat is something to be celebrated for months to come.
.jpg?w=576&dpr=2)
.jpg?w=300)