🇮🇳 Alleppey (Alappuzha), Kerala – Destination Guide

Often referred to as the “Venice of the East,” Alleppey (now officially Alappuzha) is the heart of Kerala’s backwaters—a serene network of canals, lagoons, and lakes fringed with swaying coconut palms and lush paddy fields. A houseboat cruise on the tranquil waters of Alleppey offers one of India’s most unique travel experiences.

🛶 Why Visit Alleppey?

• Cruise through scenic backwaters on traditional houseboats

• Witness authentic village life, lush greenery, and inland water systems

• Enjoy Ayurvedic wellness retreats and delicious Kerala cuisine

• Perfect destination for honeymoons, families, and spiritual getaways

🌟 Top Attractions in Alleppey

🛳️ Houseboat Cruises

• Stay overnight or take a day cruise on a luxurious kettuvallam (traditional houseboat)

• Routes often cover Vembanad Lake, Kuttanad paddy fields, and small village canals

• Includes local food, peaceful scenery, and sunset views

🏝️ Alleppey Beach

• Historic beach with a lighthouse, ideal for an evening stroll

• Sunset photography and camel rides available

⛪ Revi Karunakaran Museum

• A private collection showcasing ivory, Swarovski crystal, Tanjore paintings, and antique furniture

🏞️ Pathiramanal Island

• A small, lush island in Vembanad Lake—perfect for birdwatching and a quiet picnic

🕌 Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple

• Known for its traditional Kerala architecture and the famous palpayasam (sweet milk pudding)

🌿 Best Experiences

• Explore Alleppey’s villages by canoe or shikara boat

• Witness the Nehru Trophy Boat Race (held in August) on Punnamada Lake

• Enjoy authentic Kerala meals on a banana leaf aboard your houseboat

• Visit local coir-making villages and see Alleppey's cottage industry heritage

📅 Best Time to Visit

• October to March: Cool, dry weather and ideal for houseboat stays

• July to September: Monsoon magic, lush surroundings, and fewer tourists (but be prepared for rain)

• August: For boat races and cultural festivals

🚗 How to Reach Alleppey

• By Air: Nearest airport – Cochin International Airport (83 km)

• By Train: Alleppey Railway Station is well connected to major cities

• By Road: Accessible by road from Kochi, Kottayam, and Trivandrum

🏨 Where to Stay

• Houseboats: Ranging from budget to luxury, often with private chefs and staff

• Resorts and homestays: Along the backwaters for an immersive local experience

• Beach resorts: For those who want a mix of backwater and sea

🍽️ What to Eat

• Karimeen Pollichathu – Pearl spot fish cooked in banana leaf

• Appam with stew, puttu, and fish curry

• Toddy (local coconut palm wine) from nearby shacks

🧳 Travel Tips

• Book houseboats through reputable operators for safety and hygiene

• Carry mosquito repellent and light cotton clothing

• Sunrise and sunset are the most photogenic times on the water

• Houseboats usually start around noon and dock by evening for the night

🌍 Nearby Getaways

• Kumarakom – Bird sanctuary and luxury resorts nearby on Vembanad Lake

• Mararikulam Beach – Quiet, pristine beach ideal for relaxation

• Kochi (Cochin) – Historical coastal city just a couple of hours away

• Kuttanad – One of the few places where farming is done below sea level