If you are planning a trip to Kerala with kerala tour package, you have probably seen photos of those iconic wooden boats floating on palm-fringed water. That is Alleppey (also known as Alappuzha). I spent a significant amount of time wandering through its narrow canals and eating on banana leaves, and I can tell you that it’s a place that rewards people who are willing to slow down.
It isn't a high-octane adventure hub. It is a place where the main "activity" is often just watching the water go by. In this guide, I’ll break down the practical things to do in Alleppey based on what it’s actually like on the ground, minus the travel brochure fluff.
Why Alleppey (Alappuzha) is Famous
Alleppey is famous because it is the primary gateway to the Kerala backwaters. It is a vast network of interconnected canals, rivers, and lakes that wind through the interior of the state. While other places in Kerala have backwaters, Alleppey has the largest concentration of houseboats and a unique "water-based" culture where people use boats like we use cars.
The vibe here is all about "slow travel." You aren't rushing from monument to monument. Instead, you are sitting on a deck, watching people wash clothes by the riverbank, seeing kids paddle to school, and watching the sunset over the paddy fields.
Houseboat Experience in Alleppey
This is the big one. If you ask anyone what to do in Alleppey, they will say "get a houseboat." But there are two ways to do this, and your choice depends on your budget and how much you like being on a boat.
Day Cruise vs. Overnight Stay
- Day Cruise: Usually starts around 11:00 AM and ends by 4:00 PM or 5:00 PM. This is great if you are short on time or if you don't like the idea of sleeping on the water (it can get a bit buggy at night). You get the views and a traditional lunch.
- Overnight Stay: You check in at noon, have lunch, tea, and dinner on board, sleep in a bedroom on the boat, and check out after breakfast the next morning. It is much more relaxing, but keep in mind that boats must dock by 5:30 PM by law to let fishermen lay their nets. You won't be moving at night.
What to Expect
A houseboat is essentially a floating cottage. Most have air-conditioned bedrooms, a living area at the front, and a kitchen at the back where a private chef cooks your meals. The food is usually the highlight think Karimeen Pollichathu (pearl spot fish) and local red rice.
Costs
Prices vary wildly. A decent private 1-bedroom houseboat usually starts around ₹10,000 to ₹15,000 per night, including meals. Prices spike in December and January. Always ask to see the boat before you pay the full amount if you are booking in person.
Explore Alleppey Backwaters by Canoe or Shikara
While houseboats are the "luxury" option, I actually think the best thing to do in Alleppey is to take a canoe or a small Shikara boat.
Houseboats are huge. They can only stay in the wide, main rivers. If you want to see the "real" backwaters the tiny canals where the trees meet overhead and you can see village life up close you need a smaller boat.
- Canoes: These are manually paddled. It is silent and peaceful. Best for solo travelers or couples who want a very quiet experience.
- Shikaras: These are small motorized boats with cushioned seats and a roof. They are faster than canoes but can still fit into narrow channels. They cost about ₹600 to ₹1,000 per hour.
Best time for a ride: Go at 6:00 AM. The light is incredible, the air is cool, and you’ll see the villages waking up.
Visit Alleppey Beach
After spending time on the river, the beach offers a nice change of pace. It’s not a "swimming beach" in the way North Goa is the currents are strong and it’s more of a local hangout.
- The Old Pier: There is a 150-year-old pier that extends into the sea. It’s mostly ruins now, but it looks very moody and beautiful at sunset.
- Sunset Views: This is the main reason to go. The beach gets crowded with locals and families in the evening, creating a great, lively atmosphere.
- Safety: Stick to the shore. The waves can be deceptive, and there aren't many lifeguards around.
Stay in a Backwater Homestay
If you want to understand what travelers should not miss, it’s a night in a local homestay rather than a big hotel. Many families have converted parts of their homes along the riverbanks into guest rooms.
- The Experience: You’ll likely be eating home-cooked meals with the family. They can arrange village walks or fishing trips that you won't find on a standard tour.
- Hospitality: Kerala hospitality is legendary. You’ll get the best advice on where to walk and which local toddy shops are safe to visit.
Explore Kuttanad – The Rice Bowl of Kerala
Kuttanad is a fascinating region near Alleppey. It is one of the few places in the world where farming is done below sea level (about 1.5 to 2 meters below).
If you take a boat or drive through this area, you’ll see vast green paddy fields separated from the water by narrow dikes. It’s incredibly scenic. I recommend renting a scooter and driving through the interior roads of Kuttanad. You’ll see endless green on one side and blue water on the other.
Visit Marari Beach (Nearby Experience)
If Alleppey Beach feels too busy for you, head about 15km north to Marari Beach.
- Why go? It’s a clean, white-sand beach that is much quieter. There are many high-end eco-resorts here.
- Best for: Couples on a honeymoon or families who want a quiet day of sandcastles and reading under coconut trees.
Attend Snake Boat Race (Seasonal)
If you happen to be in Alleppey in August, you might catch the Nehru Trophy Boat Race.
It is a massive event where long "snake boats" (Chundan Vallams), each holding over 100 rowers, race down the Punnamada Lake. The energy is electric drums beating, thousands of people cheering, and the water churning. If you aren't there in August, check the local calendar for "Champakulam Moolam" or other smaller village races that happen during the monsoon.
Experience Local Kerala Food
Eating is a major part of how to spend a day in Alleppey. The cuisine here is heavy on coconut, black pepper, and fresh seafood.
- The Sadya: A traditional vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf. You’ll get 20+ items, including various curries, pickles, and payasam (dessert).
- Karimeen Pollichathu: This is the local specialty Pearl Spot fish marinated in spices, wrapped in a banana leaf, and grilled.
- Toddy Shops: These are local taverns that serve "Toddy" (fermented coconut sap) and incredibly spicy food like duck curry or beef fry. Note: Some are a bit rough, so ask your homestay host for a recommendation of a "family-friendly" toddy shop.
Visit Alleppey Lighthouse
Located near the beach, this red-and-white striped lighthouse is over 150 years old.
- The View: You can climb to the top for a 360-degree view of the Arabian Sea on one side and the dense canopy of coconut trees over the town on the other.
- Timing: It’s usually open between 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM. It’s a steep climb up a spiral staircase, so wear decent shoes.
Ayurvedic Massage & Wellness
Kerala is the home of Ayurveda. You will see massage centers on every corner in Alleppey.
- Abhyangam: A full-body massage with medicated oils. It’s great for relaxation.
- Shirodhara: Where warm oil is poured in a steady stream over your forehead.
- A Word of Caution: Avoid the "tourist traps" that look like dingy basements. Look for centers certified by the Kerala Tourism Department (usually labeled "Green Leaf" or "Olive Leaf").
Cycling Through Backwater Villages
One of my favorite Alleppey activities was renting a bicycle for ₹200 a day.
- The Route: Head away from the main town toward the coastal roads or the canal paths.
- Morning vs. Evening: Go early (7:00 AM) to avoid the heat. Cycling through the villages allows you to stop at small tea stalls (Chaya Kada) for a 10-rupee tea and a "Pazham Pori" (banana fritter).
Best Things to Do in Alleppey for Couples
Alleppey is naturally romantic, but to avoid the crowds:
- Private Candlelight Dinner: Most houseboats can arrange a dinner on the deck under the stars.
- Sunset at Marari: It’s far more private than Alleppey Beach.
- Kayaking: Renting a double kayak and paddling through quiet spots is a great bonding experience.
Best Things to Do in Alleppey for Families
- Pedal Boats: In the main canal area, you can rent simple pedal boats which kids love.
- International Museum of Coir: It sounds niche, but it’s actually quite interesting to see how coconut husks are turned into mats and rope.
- The Lighthouse: It’s always a hit with older children.
Best Time to Visit Alleppey
- Winter (November to February): This is the peak season. The weather is dry and "cool" (around 25°C to 30°C). Everything is open, but prices are highest.
- Monsoon (June to September): It rains heavily. While the houseboats still run, you might get stuck inside. However, the landscape is incredibly green, and the boat races happen now.
- Summer (March to May): It gets very hot and humid. I’d avoid this unless you are okay with staying in AC most of the day.
How to Reach Alleppey
- By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport (COK), about 75km away. You can take a pre-paid taxi (approx ₹2,500) or a bus to Alleppey.
- By Train: Alleppey has its own railway station (Alappuzha - ALLP). It is well-connected to Kochi, Trivandrum, and Bangalore.
- By Road: KSRTC buses run frequently from Kochi (Ernakulam). It takes about 2 to 2.5 hours.
Things to Know Before Visiting Alleppey
- Mosquitoes: They are no joke, especially in the evenings near the water. Carry a strong repellent.
- Dress Code: While Alleppey is used to tourists, it’s still a traditional area. On houseboats, anything goes, but in villages or temples, dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered).
- Alcohol: It isn't sold in supermarkets. You have to go to government-run "Beverage Outlets" (which often have long lines) or buy it at high-end hotels. Many houseboats allow you to bring your own.
- Plastic: Please don't throw anything into the water. The backwater ecosystem is fragile.
Cost Overview (Approximate)
|
Item |
Estimated Cost |
|
Budget Guesthouse |
₹800 - ₹1,500 per night |
|
Mid-range Resort |
₹3,000 - ₹6,000 per night |
|
Private Houseboat |
₹10,000 - ₹18,000 per night |
|
Shikara Ride |
₹800 per hour |
|
Local Meal (Thali) |
₹100 - ₹200 |
|
Dinner at a nice restaurant |
₹500 - ₹800 per person |
One-Day & Two-Day Alleppey Travel Plan
One-Day Itinerary (The "Quick Look")
- 09:00 AM: Arrive and head to the Finishing Point.
- 10:00 AM - 02:00 PM: Rent a Shikara boat for a 4-hour tour of the backwaters. Have lunch on the boat.
- 03:00 PM: Visit the Alleppey Lighthouse.
- 04:30 PM: Walk along Alleppey Beach and watch the sunset.
- 07:00 PM: Dinner at a local restaurant like Thaff or Cassia.
Two-Day Itinerary (The "Relaxed Pace")
- Day 1: Check into a houseboat at noon. Spend the day cruising, eating, and watching the sunset from the deck. Overnight on the boat.
- Day 2: Check out at 09:00 AM. Head to a backwater homestay or a resort in Marari. Spend the afternoon cycling or getting an Ayurvedic massage. Visit the beach in the evening.
Final Thoughts
Is Alleppey worth visiting? Absolutely. Even though it has become very touristy over the last decade, there is still nothing quite like it. The trick is to get off the big houseboats and into the smaller canals.
It’s best for people who want to disconnect. If you are looking for nightlife, clubs, or fast-paced sightseeing, you might get bored. But if you want to sit with a book, eat some of the best seafood of your life, and watch a world that moves at 5 miles per hour, you will love it!
