Things To Do
in Alleppey
Alleppey (Alappuzha) is a lakeside town in Kerala known for its intricate backwater network, palm-lined canals, and vibrant fishing harbor. It sits on the shores of Vembanad Lake, with easy access to tranquil houseboat cruises and rural Kerala life. The town preserves a strong fishing heritage, bustling waterways, and a laid-back coastal vibe just a short ride from Marari Beach.
Visitors come for scenic backwaters, local cuisine, and warm, Malayalam hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Wake up to the gentle lapping of water against the teakwood deck as golden rays filter through the palm-fringed waterways. A traditional Kerala breakfast of idiyappam with coconut stew is served on the open-air deck while you watch local fishermen casting nets in the mist. The serene stillness of the backwaters invites you to sit on the upper deck and breathe in the fresh, humid air of Kuttanad.
Drift past emerald paddy fields and stilted village houses as the boat’s skipper navigates narrow canals lined with coconut groves. Enjoy a freshly prepared seafood lunch—spicy fish curry and steamed rice—served on banana leaves, accompanied by the laughter of local children playing on the banks. Take a leisurely nap in the cabin or read a book while the soothing boat engine hum lulls you into relaxation.
Anchoring near a small riverside hamlet, watch fishermen haul in their catch as swallows dart overhead. Sip fresh toddy from earthen cups while the sky transforms into a canvas of oranges and purples. A candlelit dinner on the deck features local delicacies under a canopy of stars, with the distant croak of frogs and flute-like calls of night crickets adding to the ambiance.
Step onto narrow country pathways bordered by lush paddy fields for a guided village walk at dawn. Greet villagers as they tend to water buffalo and carry baskets of turmeric in brass pots to the market. Stop by a small temple where the fragrance of jasmine garlands and burning incense fills the air.
Join a local family in their kitchen as they demonstrate the art of making appam and stew, then savor your own handcrafted creations. Explore a coir-making workshop where skilled artisans weave ropes from coconut husks, and learn about the centuries-old tradition that supports the community. Wander through a bustling weekly market alive with vibrant spices, fresh produce, and colorful textiles.
Attend a friendly toddy tapping demonstration at a small palm grove just before sunset, sampling the milky sweet sap straight from the tree. Watch local folk dancers perform the graceful Kerala Natanam, moving in rhythmic harmony with traditional drums. Return to your homestay to share stories over a hearty dinner by kerosene lamp, feeling the warmth of genuine hospitality.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| ☕Coffee/Tea | $1-2 |
| 🫗Bottle of water | $0.5-1 |
| 🚗Local transport (short ride) | $2-4 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich backwater culture and boat life
- Delicious Kerala cuisine and fresh seafood
- Affordability and warm hospitality
- Proximity to beaches and rural landscapes
- High humidity and seasonal rain can affect activities
- Backwaters can feel touristy during peak season
- Some areas lack consistent mobile/internet coverage
- "Namaskaaram" - Hello/Good day
- "Ningal evide pokunnu?" - Where are you going?
- "Ente peru ... aanu" - My name is ...
- "Dayavu cheythu sahayam cheyyamo?" - Could you please help me?
- "Nanni" - Thank you
Places to Visit in Alleppey
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden sands with coconut palms and views of the Arabian Sea; great for sunrise and sunset shots.
Long vistas along Asia's largest lake, with houseboats, stilts, and migrating birds.
Waterfront spots to capture life on the canals, fishermen at work, and mangrove edges.
Terraced fields and water-filled lower landscape, ideal for golden-hour reflections.
Close-by sandy stretch with fishing boats and palm-shaded shoreline for wide-angle portraits.
Food in Alleppey
Alleppey Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Steamed rice flour cake served with spiced black chickpeas; a classic Kerala breakfast.
Must-Try!
Pearl spot fish wrapped in banana leaf and grilled with spices.
Creamy coconut fish curry with subtle spices, usually served with rice or appam.
Fermented rice pancake paired with a coconut-milk chicken or vegetable stew.
Boiled tapioca served with tangy fish curry for a hearty meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Early-morning fish market where you can see fresh catches and sample quick fried varieties nearby.
Stalls around the market offering snacks like pazham pori (banana fritters) and fried fish.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite Namaskaram or hand-folded greeting is common; address elders with respect.
Dress modestly when visiting temples; remove shoes where required and avoid loud behavior or photography in restricted zones.
Safety
Tipping in Alleppey
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not mandatory; around 5–10% in sit-down restaurants; small tips for guides, boat crews, and hotel staff are appreciated.
Cash remains widely used, though many hotels, larger restaurants, and shops accept cards; mobile wallets and UPI are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid days with bright sunshine; carry sun protection and stay hydrated; great for beach photos but backwaters can feel crowded.
Heavy rainfall and high humidity; lush landscapes and dramatic skies, but some boat tours may be canceled or delayed.
Pleasant temperatures and lower humidity; ideal for backwaters, houseboat cruises, and photography.
Alleppey at Night
Hiking in Alleppey
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle hillside trails near Alleppey offering views over paddy fields; best in cooler months.
Airports
How to reach Alleppey by plane.
Kochi, about 85 km from Alleppey; taxi or bus connections available.
Thiruvananthapuram, about 150-170 km away; longer drive but a major international hub.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The dominant ethnic group in the region, with diverse communities and a strong fisherfolk presence.
Local families hosting travelers; artisans, boat crews, and market vendors.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, played casually in streets and local grounds.
Common in schools and clubs; weekends often feature matches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Alleppey.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose from an array of vegetable curries, lentil-based dals, and dairy or coconut milk; request vegan options or oil instead of ghee.
Inform staff about shellfish or peanut allergies; request avoidance of cross-contamination and separate utensils.