thrillophilia-logo
INR
Login

Alleppey

Experiential journeys will make you a storyteller
Honeymoon
Homestays
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.

Read More

Alleppey FAQ's

Which are the best places to visit in Alleppey?

Below are the best places to visit in Alleppey that you should not miss on your next trip to this beautiful place.

1. Alleppey Beach: 
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.

2. Krishnapuram Palace: 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.

3. Backwaters: 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.

4. Kuttanad: 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.

5. Ambalapuzha Temple: 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.

6. Marari Beach: 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.

7. Arthunkal Church: It is an impressive shrine that was built by the Portuguese. Dedicated to St. Sebastian the church is famous for its annual feast of St. Sebastian that is organized in January every year.

Planning a trip to Alleppey? Checkout our best-selling Alleppey Tour Packages

What are the best things to do in Alleppey?

1.Travel through Kuttanad: 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

2. Kayaking with Kerala Kayaking: 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 

3. Rejuvenate Yourself in the Sreekrishna Ayurveda Center: 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 

4. Take a Stroll in the Alappuzha Shoreline: 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

5. Embark on a Journey to Another World in the Ambalapuzha Temple: 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

6. Take Part in the Popular Snake Boat Race: The demand for touring the city of Alleppey increases during August, especially because of the Snake Boat Race. It is an exciting event where you and a few other people will have to reach the desired location on a boat before the other people do. You can either participate in it or sit out in the crowd to enjoy the outright adrenaline rush! 

Location: Punnamada Lake 
Entry Fee: INR 100 – Standing Room 
                   INR 3,000 – Gold VIP Access 
Timings: 2:30 PM to 5:00 PM (depending on the date and season)

7. Experience A Night Stay in a Houseboat: 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 

8. Go on An Eating Spree in Alleppey: The state of Kerala is known for having an amazing world of culinary, which should make anyone go on an eating spree here. However, if you are visiting here for the first time, then be sure to try out the fried banana chips, chickpea curry, fish curry with coconut, and Vada. There are various excellent restaurants available here, which can subdue the craze for food of your taste buds!  

Location: Ambalapuzha, Kerala 688561, India

9. Pay a Visit to the Revi Karuna Karan Memorial Museum: Are you an ardent lover of the glorious artistic background of India? Then, visiting the Revi Karuna Karan Memorial Museum becomes a must for you. There are various old pieces of art, craft, and artefacts available on the premises of the museum. Aside from it, you will also get to see a huge collection of crystals here as well. 

Location: XVIII/990-A, VCSB Road, near Power House Bridge, Alappuzha, Kerala 688012, India
Entry Fee: INR 100/ person
Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM 

10. Bring Out the True Shopaholic Persona in the Alappuzha Zakariya Market: The Alappuzha Zakariya Market is filled with various small stores and places, from where you can buy various amazing kinds of stuff. For example, you can get some Kerala-special spices or coffee beans from here. Moreover, some shops here can also provide you with excellent pieces of art, which you can take as a souvenir. Besides, you may find some older artefacts here as well. However, the price of those items might be a bit higher than the usual products in the market. 

Location: Alappuzha Zakariya Market
Timings: 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM 

11. Swim at Pozhiyoram Beach: If you are thinking about making your holidays a little bit more fun and exciting, then you can also go swimming at Pozhiyoram Beach. Unlike the other beaches in the same city, this one usually stays stranded by people. Therefore, you will definitely get to spend some duet swimming sessions with your loved one. That's not all. Once you are done, you can also take a walk through the shoreline and enjoy the enthralling beauty of the ocean during the sunset! 

Location: Poomkavu, Alappuzha, Kerala 688008, India

Must Check: Alleppey Tour Packages From Chennai

What is the best time to visit Alleppey?

The winters (September to March) and monsoon (June to August) are mild with temperatures rarely crossing 35 degree Celsius are the best months to visit Alleppey. The 10 day temple festivals in the month of March is also a very good time to visit. In the month of August, the famous Nehru Boat Race is held with great vigour and excitement and could provide a very unique yet spectacular view of Kerala.

How to reach Alleppey?

Alleppey is 75 km from Kochi (Cochin) and 155 km from Trivandrum. It is well connected by air, train, and road.

By Air:
Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport at a distance of 75 km. It Is well connected to all major cities in India and abroad.

By Train:
The Alleppey Railway Station lies within the city limits and is well connected to Cochin and Trivandrum.

By Road:
It is accessible by National Highway 47 via Ambalapuzha and Cherthala cities. Kerala State Transport Corporation runs daily buses connecting it to all cities in Kerala.

Which are some best 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.

Planning a Alleppey trip, Checkout: Alleppey Tour Packages

Which are the best 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.

If you're planning a vacation to Alleppey for your honeymoon, make sure to check out: Alleppey Honeymoon Packages

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.

Checkout & Book: Munnar Alleppey Honeymoon Package from Bangalore

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.

Click here to book: Munnar Alleppey Tour Package

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.

Book Now: Alleppey Packages From Bangalore

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.

Must Book: Kerala Tour Packages From Vadodara

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.

Which are some famous beaches in Alleppey?

The most famous beaches in Alleppey are:

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.

Also Book: Kerala Tour Packages From Kochi

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.

What are the best Kerela Honeymoon tour packages that we can book with Thrillophilia?

Alleppey Reviews

Traveller image gallery
review-img
Pragati Manchanda
Reviewed: 13 Oct 2023
5.0/5
This was really an awesome trip. We enjoyed a lot. We took premium package and the stays and breakfast buffet was really good. I believe driver is the person who defines how our trip would be, because I have been to other parts of India and I know the issues that happens because of driver. But our d... Read More
Pragati Manchanda
Pragati Manchanda
Pragati Manchanda
Pragati Manchanda
Pragati Manchanda
Pragati Manchanda
(10+)View All
review-img
Abhishek Banerjee
Reviewed: 24 Dec 2023
5.0/5
The trip was great indeed. It was my honeymoon trip to Kerala and Team Thrillophilia did a great job arranging the best for us. Specially my advisor for this trip Kamini Kumari, was there always for support and she made sure that we have a great time in this trip. I will looking forward to make my f... Read More
Abhishek Banerjee
Abhishek Banerjee
Abhishek Banerjee
Abhishek Banerjee
Abhishek Banerjee
Abhishek Banerjee
(6+)View All
review-img
Dnyanesh Chandewar
Reviewed: 03 Jul 2023
5.0/5
It was a great trip with Thrillophilia, we enjoyed the itinerary made, and covered us to the fullest.
Dnyanesh Chandewar
Dnyanesh Chandewar
Dnyanesh Chandewar
Dnyanesh Chandewar
Dnyanesh Chandewar
Dnyanesh Chandewar
(3+)View All
review-img
Aditya Pradhan
Reviewed: 08 Dec 2023
4.0/5
We would like to thank entire Thrillophillia team for arranging such a perfect and fun trip and making our 1st trip together all the more special. Best wishes, Aditya & Chaitali
Aditya   Pradhan
Aditya   Pradhan
Aditya   Pradhan
Aditya   Pradhan
Aditya   Pradhan
Aditya   Pradhan
(1+)View All
review-img
Sangita
Reviewed: 20 Jan 2024
4.0/5
Booked:05KLUP1501
We planned Kerala trip in very short time but it was good experience, liked it
Sangita
Sangita
Sangita
Sangita
Sangita
review-img
VINAY KUMAR
Reviewed: 28 Feb 2023
5.0/5
Nice experience with thrillophilia and thank you Indrinil Dutta for timely suggestion.
VINAY KUMAR
VINAY KUMAR
VINAY KUMAR

Why Choose Thrillophilia