Things To Do
in Alwaye
Alwaye, officially Aluva, is a riverside town just north of Kochi in Kerala, perched on the Periyar River delta. It blends historical temples and markets with modern cafés and easy access to the Kochi metropolitan area. The town serves as a convenient gateway to Kochi’s backwaters and the region’s lush greenery.
Visitors will find a laid-back vibe, with a mix of traditional traditions and contemporary conveniences.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the famous Alwaye Siva Temple, known for its architectural beauty and spiritual significance. Spend some time soaking in the serene atmosphere and engage in a moment of reflection. Enjoy a traditional South Indian breakfast at a local eatery nearby.
After lunch, head to the peaceful banks of the Periyar River for a leisurely stroll. You can enjoy a picnic or rent a boat to get a closer view of the beautiful surrounding nature. Don't forget to capture the picturesque scenery, as it’s a perfect spot for photography lovers.
As the sun sets, visit the nearby Mahadeva Temple in Alwaye, which is renowned for its grand festivities. Join in the evening prayers and enjoy the vibrant ambiance filled with local devotees. Wind down your day with a dinner at a local restaurant offering delicious Kerala cuisine.
Start your exploration with a trip to the Alwaye Green Park, where you can immerse yourself in lush greenery and the sound of chirping birds. Spend your morning walking along the trails, breathing in fresh air, and observing various flora and fauna. Refresh yourself with a light snack from a nearby vendor.
In the afternoon, take a short drive to the nearby Chalakkudy River, celebrated for its tranquil waters and splendid surroundings. Engage in activities like bird watching or simply relax amidst nature’s beauty. Don't miss out on enjoying a meal at a riverside shack that offers local delicacies.
As dusk falls, enjoy a spectacular sunset over the river and the verdant hills in the background. Consider having a BBQ or a campfire experience if visiting with a group. Conclude your day with stories shared among friends or new acquaintances around the fire.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🚗Taxi ride (1 km) | $0.25-0.50 |
| 🏠Rent for 1-bedroom apartment (city center, per month) | $350-500 |
| 🍼Milk (1 liter) | $0.85-1.20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strategic riverside location with easy access to Kochi and backwaters
- Rich cultural sites (temples, Kalady, heritage streets) and delicious Kerala cuisine
- Traffic can be heavy closer to Kochi during peak hours
- Monsoon season brings heavy rain and occasional road flooding
- "Namaskaaram" - Hello
- "Ente peru [name] aanu." - My name is [name].
- "Ningal English samsaarikoonu?" - Do you speak English?
- "Ithu entha?" - What is this?
- "Toilet evide undu?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Nanni" - Thank you
Places to Visit in Alwaye
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide river views, sunsets, and a calm waterfront ideal for wide shots and candid street photography.
Colorful temple architecture and daily rituals provide dynamic subject matter and cultural context.
Coastal scenery with sea, sand, and silhouettes of fishing boats—great for golden-hour photography.
Quiet temple complex and pilgrimage site offering serene photography opportunities.
Historic streets, Chinese fishing nets, and colonial architecture provide vibrant urban images.
Food in Alwaye
Alwaye Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A coconut-based curry served with shredded tapioca; a classic coastal Kerala pairing found in many homes and local eateries.
Must-Try!
A creamy coconut milk curry with fish, commonly served with rice or appam.
Steamed rice flour cylinders served with chickpea curry; a staple breakfast or supper option.
Thin, lacy pancake served with a mild coconut-based vegetable stew.
Layered flatbread paired with a rich, spiced beef preparation; widely available in local eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling morning markets where you can sample fresh fruits, spices, and regional snacks.
Street stalls offering fried fish, banana chips, and coconut-based quick bites along the coast.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, remove footwear before temple entrances, and avoid loud behavior inside sacred spaces.
A respectful Namaste with hands joined is the common polite greeting.
Ask for permission before photographing individuals or families, especially in religious or private settings.
Safety
Tipping in Alwaye
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is customary if service charge isn’t included. For street food and taxi drivers, small tips are appreciated but not obligatory.
Cash is widely accepted, and cards are increasingly common in hotels and larger restaurants. Digital wallets and UPI payments are popular in urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with temperatures often in the mid-30s°C; stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.
June to September brings heavy rainfall and occasional flooding; excellent for lush scenery but carry rain gear and exercise caution on trails and roads.
Pleasant and cooler mornings and evenings; comfortable for sightseeing and outdoor walks, with mild humidity.
Alwaye at Night
Hiking in Alwaye
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hilltop meadow offering expansive views and a moderate hike; great for sunrise/ sunset photography.
Scenic waterfall area with forest trails; a longer day trip from Alwaye with rewarding viewpoints.
Airports
How to reach Alwaye by plane.
Major international and domestic gateway for the region, about 25-35 km from Alwaye; reachable by road in roughly 45-75 minutes depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant community in the area with a mix of families, professionals, and students near Kochi.
Residents and visitors who commute to Kochi for work or education, contributing to a youthful, cosmopolitan feel.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and watched, with local leagues and informal matches across town greens and schools.
Popular among youths and communities; local clubs and pickup games occur in parks and school grounds.
Common in gyms and community centers; casual matches offered in many neighborhoods.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Alwaye.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Kerala dishes are adaptable to a vegetarian diet. Look for dishes without meat, and ask for coconut milk or ghee-free options when needed.