Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha, is often hailed as the “Venice of the East” for its intricate network of serene backwaters, shimmering canals, and picturesque lagoons. This charming coastal town in Kerala offers a unique and tranquil escape, far from the hustle and bustle of city life. Let’s delve deeper into the must-visit places in Alleppey, along with essential travel information.
1. Alleppey Backwaters: The Lifeline
Where: The backwaters of Alleppey are a labyrinth of interconnected waterways that weave through lush green paddy fields, coconut groves, and quaint villages. This network encompasses canals, lakes, and lagoons, with Vembanad Lake being the largest.
What to See and Do:
- Houseboat Cruise: The quintessential Alleppey experience. Spend a day or overnight in a traditional houseboat, gliding through the backwaters, enjoying delicious Kerala cuisine, and witnessing the local way of life.
- Canoeing/Shikara Rides: For a more intimate exploration of the narrower canals, opt for a canoe or shikara ride. Get closer to the villages and observe the daily activities of the locals.
- Witnessing Village Life: Observe traditional coir making, fishing, and farming practices along the backwater banks. Interact with the friendly villagers for a glimpse into their culture.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Cochin International Airport (COK) is the nearest airport, located approximately 75 km away. Taxis and buses are readily available for the onward journey.
- By Train: Alleppey has its own railway station (ALLP), which is well-connected to major cities in Kerala and other parts of India.
- By Road: Alleppey is well-connected by road to other towns and cities in Kerala. Regular bus services, both state-run and private, are available.
Food Options:
Dining on a houseboat is a highlight, with freshly prepared traditional Kerala cuisine. You can also find local eateries offering:
- Karimeen Pollichathu: Pearl spot fish marinated in spices and grilled in banana leaves.
- Alleppey Fish Curry: A tangy and spicy fish curry cooked with coconut milk and local spices.
- Appam and Stew: Soft, lacy-edged pancakes served with a flavorful vegetable or meat stew.
Hotel Options (including Houseboats):
- Oberoi Vrinda, Backwaters Cruise Vessel: Luxurious houseboat experience with exceptional service and amenities. (Rating: 4.9/5)
- Punnamada Resort: A serene lakeside resort with traditional Kerala architecture and Ayurvedic spa. (Rating: 4.7/5)
- Houseboats (various operators): Ranging from budget-friendly to luxury options, offering overnight stays and meals on the backwaters. (Ratings vary from 3.5/5 to 4.5/5 depending on the operator and type of houseboat)
2. Alleppey Beach: Golden Sands and Azure Waters
Where: Situated on the Arabian Sea coast, Alleppey Beach is a long stretch of golden sand offering picturesque views and a relaxed atmosphere.
What to See and Do:
- Relaxing and Sunbathing: Spend leisurely hours soaking up the sun and enjoying the sea breeze.
- Swimming: The shallow waters near the shore are generally safe for swimming.
- Watching the Sunset: Alleppey Beach is a fantastic spot to witness breathtaking sunsets over the Arabian Sea.
- Alleppey Lighthouse: Climb to the top of this historic lighthouse for panoramic views of the coastline and the town.
How to Reach:
- The beach is easily accessible by road from anywhere in Alleppey town. Auto-rickshaws and taxis are readily available.
Food Options:
Numerous shacks and small restaurants near the beach offer fresh seafood and local snacks:
- Fried Fish: Enjoy freshly caught fish fried with local spices.
- Seafood Biryani: A flavorful rice dish with a variety of seafood.
- Street Food: Try local snacks like “pazhampori” (banana fritters) and “vada.”
Hotel Options (near the beach):
- The Windward Resorts: Offers comfortable rooms with sea views and easy beach access. (Rating: 4.3/5)
- Hotel Arcadia Regency: A well-maintained hotel located close to the beach and other attractions. (Rating: 4.1/5)
- Numerous budget-friendly guesthouses and homestays are also available near the beach. (Ratings vary)
3. Vembanad Lake: The Majestic Water Body
Where: Vembanad Lake is the longest lake in India and the largest lake in Kerala. A significant part of it borders Alleppey district.
What to See and Do:
- Bird Watching: The lake and its surrounding areas are a haven for migratory and resident birds. Visit the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary (easily accessible from Alleppey) located on the eastern banks of the lake.
- Fishing: Witness traditional fishing methods or try your hand at angling.
- Water Sports: Some resorts and operators offer activities like kayaking and sailing on the lake.
How to Reach:
- Parts of Vembanad Lake are accessible from various points in Alleppey, especially during houseboat cruises.
Food Options:
Resorts and houseboats on or near Vembanad Lake offer a variety of dining options, focusing on fresh seafood and Kerala delicacies.
Hotel Options (near Vembanad Lake):
- Coconut Lagoon – CGH Earth: An eco-friendly resort on the banks of Vembanad Lake, accessible by boat. (Rating: 4.7/5)
- Vasundhara Sarovar Premiere: A luxurious resort overlooking the lake with private pool villas. (Rating: 4.6/5)
4. Krishnapuram Palace: A Glimpse into History
Where: Located about 15 km from Alleppey town, Krishnapuram Palace is a historical monument built in the 18th century.
What to See:
- Gajendra Moksham Mural: A large and significant mural painting depicting a mythological story.
- Kerala Architecture: Admire the traditional Kerala architectural style of the palace.
- Museum: The palace houses a museum showcasing artifacts, sculptures, and paintings.
How to Reach:
- Easily accessible by road from Alleppey town. Buses and taxis are available.
Food Options:
Limited options are available directly at the palace. It’s recommended to have food in Alleppey town or nearby restaurants.
Hotel Options:
Most tourists visiting Krishnapuram Palace stay in Alleppey town.
5. Marari Beach: Tranquil Shores
Where: Located a short drive north of Alleppey town, Marari Beach is a pristine and less crowded beach known for its tranquility and natural beauty.
What to See and Do:
- Relaxation: Marari Beach is ideal for unwinding in a peaceful setting.
- Ayurvedic Treatments: Several resorts in the area offer traditional Ayurvedic therapies.
- Village Walks: Explore the local fishing villages and experience the coastal life.
How to Reach:
- Easily accessible by road from Alleppey town. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available.
Food Options:
Resorts and small eateries near Marari Beach offer fresh seafood and Kerala cuisine.
Hotel Options (near Marari Beach):
- Marari Beach Resort – CGH Earth: A luxurious beachfront resort focusing on eco-friendly practices and wellness. (Rating: 4.8/5)
- Carnoustie Ayurveda & Wellness Resort: An upscale resort specializing in Ayurvedic treatments and yoga. (Rating: 4.7/5)
- Xandari Pearl: A boutique resort with private pool villas near the beach. (Rating: 4.6/5)
6. Pathiramanal Island: A Birdwatcher’s Haven
Where: Located in Vembanad Lake, Pathiramanal (meaning “sands of night”) is a small, uninhabited island that serves as a nesting ground for numerous migratory birds.
What to See and Do:
- Birdwatching: This is the primary activity here. Spot a variety of local and migratory birds, including cormorants, herons, egrets, kingfishers, and more.
- Serene Environment: Enjoy the tranquility of this secluded island, surrounded by the vast expanse of the lake.
How to Reach:
- Accessible only by boat. You can hire a boat from Alleppey town or nearby backwater resorts.
Food Options:
No food stalls are available on the island. It’s advisable to carry your own water and snacks or arrange for a packed meal with your boat operator.
Hotel Options:
No accommodation is available on the island. Visitors typically stay in Alleppey town or nearby resorts.
7. Ambalappuzha Sree Krishna Temple: Taste the Divine Payasam
Where: Situated about 14 km south of Alleppey town, this ancient Hindu temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna.
What to See and Do:
- Temple Architecture: Admire the traditional Kerala style of architecture.
- Ambalappuzha Payasam: This temple is famous for its unique and delicious sweet rice pudding (payasam), offered as prasadam (holy offering) daily.
- Paintings: The temple walls feature notable paintings depicting scenes from the life of Lord Krishna.
How to Reach:
- Easily accessible by road from Alleppey town. Buses and taxis are readily available.
Food Options:
The temple offers its famous payasam as prasadam. Several small eateries near the temple serve vegetarian South Indian meals.
Hotel Options:
Most visitors stay in Alleppey town, which is a short drive away.
8. Champakulam Moolam Boat Race Starting Point:
Where: Champakulam is a village located a bit further into the backwaters from Alleppey town. It’s famous as the starting point of one of the oldest and most traditional snake boat races in Kerala, the Champakulam Moolam Boat Race, held annually during the Onam festival season.
What to See and Do:
- Visit the Village: Explore the quaint village and experience the backwater life.
- Imagine the Race: If you visit outside the race season, you can still see the preparations and imagine the excitement of the snake boat race.
- St. Mary’s Church: Champakulam is also home to one of the oldest Christian churches in Kerala.
How to Reach:
- Accessible by road and boat from Alleppey town. A backwater cruise can often include a stop here.
Food Options:
Local eateries in Champakulam offer traditional Kerala dishes.
Hotel Options:
Limited stay options are available directly in Champakulam. Most tourists prefer to stay in Alleppey town or backwater resorts.
9. Karumadi Kuttan Statue: A Relic of Buddhism
Where: Located near Ambalappuzha, the Karumadi Kuttan is a partially damaged black granite statue believed to be of a Buddhist origin, dating back to the 9th or 10th century.
What to See:
- The Statue: Observe this ancient relic and learn about the region’s historical connections to Buddhism.
How to Reach:
- Easily accessible by road when visiting the Ambalappuzha Temple.
Food Options:
Limited options are available at the immediate vicinity. It’s best to have food near Ambalappuzha or in Alleppey town.
Hotel Options:
Most visitors stay in Alleppey town.
10. Revi Karunakaran Memorial Museum: A Treasure Trove of Art
Where: Located in Alleppey town, this private museum showcases a remarkable collection of art and artifacts collected by the late Revi Karunakaran, a prominent businessman and art enthusiast.
What to See:
- Swarovski Crystal Collection: A stunning display of crystal artifacts.
- Ivory Carvings: Intricate carvings made from ivory.
- Thanjavur Paintings: Traditional South Indian paintings known for their rich colors and detailing.
- Other Antiques: A diverse collection of historical and artistic pieces.
How to Reach:
- Easily accessible within Alleppey town.
Food Options:
Numerous restaurants and cafes are located in Alleppey town near the museum.
Hotel Options:
Being in Alleppey town, the museum is easily accessible from all the hotels mentioned earlier.
Disclaimer: Please note that the information provided in this blog regarding travel details, places to visit, food options, and hotel information (including review ratings) is for general informational purposes only. Availability, pricing, operational hours, and ratings are subject to change. It is recommended to verify the latest details directly with the respective service providers, tourism boards, or relevant authorities before making any travel arrangements or decisions. Travel during certain times may be subject to specific guidelines and restrictions.
