The entire district of Alappuzha is a marvel of natural forces- thanks to its picturesque beaches, endless backwaters, sky-blue lagoons and numerous canals, it is known as “the Venice of the East” and the main city, the “Venetian Capital” of Kerala. Backwaters imply houseboats, and a houseboat vacation is a joy to remember for life. You will find many of these- stationary as well as cruise houseboats- around Alleppey.The experiences it offers to travelers leave them with a yearning to visit Alleppey, a splendid nature’s paradise, again and again. We’re listing down the top places to visit in Alleppey, so that your escapade is nothing less than magnificent
The glistening, emerald green water spotted with the whites and pinks of water lilies, the coconut trees swaying in the cool, sea breeze, the green stretches of paddy fields on either side, the flocks of ducks swimming about lazily, and the long necks of cormorants visible out of the surface of the water. No matter how much one tries to describe it, no words can ever truly capture the true beauty of the backwaters of Alleppey. You have to see it to believe it. In addition to natural beauty, the backwaters are also one of the most awesome places to visit in Alleppey for birdwatching. However, what steals the show at this incredible location is the memorable houseboat cruises.
Alleppey Beach is one of the must-visit beaches of Kerala. The intrinsic natural beauty of Alleppey Beach is what makes it so attractive to thousands of people visiting it. When you visit the beach, you can see the 137-year-old ancient pier that stretches out into the beach. As you lounge in the beach, you can enjoy the mesmerizing beauty of the dense palm groves and the imposing, but an ancient lighthouse. Also, there’s a wonderful park “Vijay Park” where can hang out with children. Alleppey Beach is a place where you can unwind yourself, completely.
The best time to visit Alappuzha beach is from October to February. This is also the time when the amazing Alappuzha beach festival is organized as a part of the New Year celebrations. However, no matter what season is assigned favorable for visiting Alappuzha, with an atmosphere and ambiance like it has, all seasons have their unique charming influence on this amazing destination. [Navigate here]
The Alappuzha Lighthouse, once a marker of the busiest ports and trade centers of Kerala, is now an important historical monument in Alleppey, and the first of its kind along the Arabian coast. One can go to the top and enjoy the awesome greenscapes of the entire Alleppey town
This beautiful destination is known for being a beach symphony, thanks to its glistening sands and crystal clear waters. Watching sunrise and sunset here is quite a romantic experience that couples would love to enjoy. The place is rated as one of the World’s Top Five Hammock Beaches by the National Geographic Survey.
The Marari Beach is known for providing unique experiences to the travelers. Taking them away from modern life, this beach gives them an opportunity to unwind and to enjoy the different facets and bounties of life and nature.
It is located about 11 km from Alappuzha town.[Navigate here]
The temple is the oldest Krishna temples in Kerala and among the oldest in India too. The temple was built around 15th to 17th century AD and has been one of the strongholds of Krishna devotees for centuries. The temple has a lovely, soothing ambiance which will calm you down and make you simply want to sit in the temple for hours on the end. Since there are no entry fees and everyone is allowed to enter inside.
When in the temple, don’t forget to have the famed sweet milk porridge- Palpayasam. Visitors love this prasad and it is actually counted among the attractions of the temple
Timings: 3:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Location: Ambalappuzha, 14km from Alappuzha town.[Navigate here]
This boat race is unlike any other boat racing activity you may have seen before. The Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race, also known as Vallam Kali, is an annual competition that takes place every August on a part of Lake Vembanad. It is one of the cultural highlights of the state, so plan your visit accordingly if it is your desire to see and experience this boat race.
Unlike other boat racing events which have teams of 5 to 10 rowing furiously in silent concentration, this boat race has teams of at least 100 people, usually fishermen, who row together as they sing at the top of their voice. It is a wonderful experience to simply see the boats row past as you stand on the banks of the lake. The festival draws a lot of rush so you might want to reach the venue early to get a good viewing point.
This is one of the best tourist places to visit in Alleppey for those who wish to gain insight into the culture, lives and times of the people of South India. Spending a day at this palace is certainly one of the best things to do in Alleppey, guaranteeing rejuvenation of mind, body, and soul.
Its architectural style consists of narrow corridors and dormer windows along with the gabled roof and other areas, which is reminiscent of the classic architecture of South India.
Currently, the palace is maintained and run by the Archaeological Department of Kerala and therefore, the palace has been converted into the museum. History enthusiasts and explorers will love this palace and its exhibits that originally belong to the Maharaja Marthanda Varma.[Navigate here]
One of the oldest and most beautiful Christian churches in the country, the St Mary Forane Church belongs to the Syro Malabar Church under the archeparchy of Changanacherry. It is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Alleppey owing to its magnificent sculpture, murals, and the stunning views of the backwaters flowing adjacent to it. It is also famous as the wonderful locations for the movies like vinaithandi varuvaya,ek deewana tha, baaghi, sound thoma, thachiledathu chundan….etc. It is located at pulincunnoo which is 20 kms from Alappuzha town. [Navigate here]
The Mullakkal Bhagavathy Temple is a testament to Allepey’s diversity and unity. The temple is built in a style that distinguishes it from the other temples in Kerala. The roof is absent over the image of the deity and it also contains an elephant house. the temple is a unique architectural marvel which must be visited. The mullakkal street nearby temple is better for local purchases, gold, and textiles.
location: mullakkal(1 km from Alappuzha town)[Navigate here]
a great place to explore to know about coir and coir products. Give a clear picture about coir industry in Alappuzha. People make beautiful pieces of handicrafts using coir, which is derived from coconut husk. This well-maintained museum depicts valuable information on the historical events in coir sector starting from its origin and its growth involving the traditional processes and progress such as retting and fiber extraction, latest development achieved through research, mechanization, etc. There is a wide range of beautiful handicrafts like Taj Mahal, utensils, animals, birds, images, bags, ornaments, household goods, etc., all made out of coir, displayed in this museum. Other than the displayed handicrafts and coir products, there is a workshop where you can see people working on coir. In the Souvenir shop, you can enjoy shopping varieties of coir handicrafts, coir mats, coir ornaments, etc.
Visiting hours:09:00-17:00
Location: Kalavoor(9km from Alappuzha town) [Navigate here]
A haven of Keralite art and culture, the Revi Karunakaran Museum exhibits stunning artifacts and pieces of art. Popular items on the display at the museum is the personal collection of businessman Mr. Revi Karunakaran.
The museum also houses precious stones, crystals, and a few antique furniture pieces. Visit for a great experience and to learn about the history and culture of Kerala.It is located nearby 1 km from alappuzha town.[Navigate here]