Things To Do
in Alleppey

Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha, is a picturesque town in Kerala, India, famous for its tranquil backwaters and scenic houseboat cruises. The town is often referred to as the 'Venice of the East' due to its intricate network of canals and lagoons. Visitors can experience the rich cultural heritage of Kerala, including traditional boat races and unique festivals.

With its lush greenery and serene landscapes, Alleppey offers a perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Backwaters
morning
:

Start your day with a serene houseboat cruise on the backwaters, enjoying the scenic beauty and local wildlife.

afternoon
:

Visit the famous Alappuzha Beach and relax on the sandy shores or engage in water sports.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional Keralan dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a stroll along the beach to watch the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Visit the Krishnapuram Palace, a beautiful heritage site that showcases Kerala's royal history and architecture.

afternoon
:

Explore the local markets, such as the Alappuzha Fish Market, to experience the vibrant culture and buy fresh seafood.

evening
:

Attend a Kathakali dance performance, a traditional dance-drama known for its elaborate costumes and storytelling.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$5 - $10
🏠Budget hotel per night$15 - $30
🚕Taxi ride (within the city)$2 - $5
🛶Houseboat cruise (per hour)$20 - $50
🥤Local beverage$1 - $3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural beauty with backwaters and beaches
  • Rich cultural heritage and traditions
  • Delicious local cuisine, especially seafood
  • Monsoon rains can disrupt travel plans
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Traffic congestion during peak season
  • "Namaskaram" - Hello
  • "Shukriya" - Thank you
  • "Enikku malayalam ariyilla" - I don't know Malayalam
  • "Ningal evideyanu?" - Where are you from?
  • "Sugamano?" - How are you?

Places to Visit in Alleppey

Visit one of these nice places.

Alleppey Backwaters

Capture the serene beauty of the backwaters with lush greenery and traditional houseboats.

Alappuzha Lighthouse

A historic lighthouse offering panoramic views of the Arabian Sea, perfect for sunset shots.

Punnamada Lake

A tranquil lake surrounded by palm trees, ideal for capturing the essence of Kerala's natural beauty.

Culinary Guide

Food in Alleppey

Alleppey offers a delightful culinary experience with its unique blend of spices and flavors. The local cuisine is predominantly seafood-based, featuring fresh catches from the backwaters.

Alleppey Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Karimeen Pollichathu

A traditional dish made with pearl spot fish marinated in spices and wrapped in banana leaves before being grilled.

Must-Try!

Appam and Stew

Soft, fluffy rice pancakes served with a flavorful coconut stew, usually made with vegetables or meat.

Puttu and Kadala Curry

Steamed rice cake served with a spicy black chickpea curry, a popular breakfast dish in Kerala.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Alappuzha Fish Market

A bustling market where you can find the freshest seafood, local spices, and traditional snacks.

Puthenangadi Street Food

A vibrant street known for its variety of local snacks, including banana chips and spicy fritters.

Climate Guide

Weather

Alleppey experiences a tropical monsoon climate, characterized by high humidity and significant rainfall during the monsoon season. Winters (November to February) are mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 18°C to 30°C. Summers (March to May) can be hot, with temperatures reaching up to 38°C. The monsoon season (June to September) brings heavy rains, transforming the landscape into a lush paradise.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

Dress conservatively, especially when visiting temples and rural areas. Light cotton clothing is recommended due to the heat.

Respect Local Customs

Always ask for permission before taking photographs of people or their property.

Remove Footwear

It's customary to remove shoes before entering homes and places of worship.

Safety Guide

Safety

Alleppey is generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to take common-sense precautions. Keep valuables secure and avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas. Be cautious while swimming in the backwaters and always follow safety guidelines provided by local operators.

Tipping in Alleppey

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated in restaurants and for services; 10% is usually considered customary.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but many places also accept credit and debit cards. Mobile payment apps are becoming popular.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter (November to February)

The weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing, making it the peak tourist season.

Summer (March to May)

Temperatures can be high, but early mornings and evenings are suitable for exploration. Expect occasional rain.

Monsoon (June to September)

Heavy rainfall transforms the landscape, making it lush and beautiful, but travel can be challenging due to flooding.

Post-Monsoon (October)

The weather starts to cool down, and the greenery is vibrant, making it a good time for travel.

Nightlife Guide

Alleppey at Night

Alleppey's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities. The town offers a few bars and pubs, mainly focused on local and international beer, but the real charm lies in enjoying evenings by the backwaters or at local eateries. Traditional music and dance performances can also be enjoyed at various cultural venues, providing a glimpse into Kerala's rich heritage.

Hiking in Alleppey

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Vembanad Lake Trail

A scenic hiking trail around Vembanad Lake, offering stunning views of the backwaters and local wildlife.

Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary Trail

A beautiful trail through the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, perfect for birdwatching and enjoying nature.

Airports

How to reach Alleppey by plane.

Cochin International Airport (COK)

Located about 85 km from Alleppey, this airport is the nearest major international airport, offering flights to various domestic and international destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Alleppey is quite walkable, especially in the town center and along the beach. The main attractions, such as the beach, markets, and restaurants, are within walking distance. However, some areas may require transportation due to the spread-out nature of the backwaters.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Keralites

The native people of Kerala, known for their hospitality and rich cultural traditions.

Tourists

Alleppey attracts a diverse group of tourists from around the world, drawn to its natural beauty and cultural experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Boat Racing

A traditional sport in Kerala, boat racing is celebrated during festivals and showcases the region's rich cultural heritage.

Cricket

Cricket is immensely popular among locals, with many playing in open fields and organized local tournaments.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Alleppey can be congested, especially during peak tourist seasons. Public transportation options include buses, auto-rickshaws, and taxis. Walking and cycling are also common, especially for short distances.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Alleppey.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to specify your preferences.

Gluten-Free Choices

While gluten-free options may be limited, rice-based dishes are widely available.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Alleppey include government hospitals and private clinics. Major hospitals provide general medical services, but for specialized care, residents may need to travel to larger cities like Kochi. It's advisable for travelers to have health insurance that covers medical emergencies.

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