Alleppey Diaries:Houseboats And Beyond, Explore Alleppey’s Beauty In 2025

Alleppey Tales: Houseboats, Lagoons, and Sunset Skies

Alleppey, or Alappuzha as it is officially called, is one of the most picturesque and iconic places in Kerala. Known for its unforgettable landscapes, unique network of serene backwaters, palm lined canals, green fields of paddy, and pretty houseboats, Alleppey has been christened the Venice of the East. In Alleppey, water is a way of life, and as a visitor you will be surrounded by this tranquil, peaceful world of waterways, lakes, and villages.

Why Visit Alleppey?

This lovely town is an absolute must see on any traveller’s list of places to visit in Kerala. As a traveller to Alleppey, whether you are travelling by houseboat through its vast and famous backwaters, visiting age-old temples, relaxing on the shore of its beaches, or sampling the local seafood, you will find the great natural beauty of the region, and the traditional hospitality of Kerala, a delightful combination.

Alleppey is a great place to soak up the backwaters of Kerala. Gliding gently by houseboat through remote canals, lining with large swaying coconut trees, and wide expanses of lush fields, is a remarkable experience. In addition to its waterways though, Alleppey has historical temples, ancient churches, gorgeous beaches, and vibrant markets – with a laid back atmosphere, it is suitable for couples, families, solo travellers, and nature enthusiasts alike.

Top Things to Do

1. Houseboat experiences, cruise along the backwaters.

The one most activity that you can find in Alleppey is a houseboat cruise.The traditional Kettuvallams, which are now modern houseboats, glide through the backwaters that are tranquil, passing by local villages, rice fields, and palm trees. You have a choice of a day cruise or an overnight experience with food prepared on board. Watching the sun set from a houseboat will be in your memory for a lifetime.

2. Vembanad Lake

This is the longest in India and the main body of Kerala’s backwater system. It is excellent for houseboat rides, organic birdwatching, and relaxing boat tours. The Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race, one of the largest in the world, takes place here every August.

3. Alleppey Beach

With golden sand, washed by gentle waves, it is a clean beach, perfect for evening strolls or picnics. There’s a pier that extends into the sea, along with a nearby lighthouse. It is a popular spot with locals and tourists.

4. Marari Beach

About 11 kilometers from Alleppey Town, Marari Beach is quieter and a more relaxed beach experience. The beach offers swimming and sunbathing, with little crowding.

5. Krishnapuram Palace

Krishnapuram Palace is an 18th-century residence located approximately 18 kilometers from Alleppey. It is best known for the Kerala style of architecture and the mural painting name Gajendra Moksham.The palace now houses a museum with paintings, sculptures, and antique collections.

6. Pathiramanal Island

Pathirmanal is a small island cloaked in green in the middle of Vembanad Lake. It is a wonderful place for nature lovers and bird watchers alike. The island can only be reached by boat which makes it a charming uncrowded getaway.

7. Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple

This historic temple is 14 kilometers from Alleppey and is famed for its Palpayasam (sweet pudding made from rice), which is offered to the deity and served to devotees. The temple is beautifully constructed in the Kerala style and has an noted past.

8. Mullakkal Rajarajeswari Temple

This temple is located in the heart of Alleppey town, and is dedicated to Goddess Rajarajeswari. This temple has an open-roofed shrine and its annual festivals are particularly vibrant.

Best Time To Visit

If you want to enjoy all that Alleppey has to offer then the best time to visit is from November to February. The temperatures are cooler and are perfect for outdoor excursions, as well as houseboat rides.

Winter (November – February)

This is the most comfortable season; the temperatures range from 20 degrees Celsius to 30 degrees Celsius across the region. Ideal weather for any sightseeing, soaking up the sun on beach excursions or cruising through the backwaters.

Summer (March – May)

Summers are hot no doubt, very humid, and temperatures can rise to around 35 degrees celsius. Summer is considered the off-season and good deals and discounts can be found on hotels and houseboats.

Monsoon (June to September)

The monsoon will obviously bring abundant rain to the area and everything will feel fresh and green, even if houseboat services may be affected. This could be a good season for Ayurvedic treatments as well as for nature lovers.

How To Reach there

• By Air

The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport which is approximately 82 kilometers away. It would then take about two hours to reach Alleppey by taxi, bus or train, from the airport.

• By Train

Alleppey Railway Station is connected with a few key cities such as Kochi, Trivandrum, Bangalore and Chennai. It is approximately 4 km from the main backwater area.

• By Road

Alleppey is also connected by road with the nearby towns and districts in Kerala. Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) buses and private taxis are regularly available from Kochi, Trivandrum and Kollam districts.

Where to Stay

Alleppey offers so many styles of accommodations to suit all budgets. Most travellers enjoy staying at houseboats, backwater resorts, and beach hotels.

Budget – Homestays and basic guesthouses in or near the town.

Mid-range – Boutique resorts, backwater view hotels, and houseboats for day-cruise.

Luxury – Premium houseboats with private decks, luxury beach resorts, and Ayurvedic wellness retreats.

Loal foods to try

The regional cuisine in Alleppey focuses on fresh seafood, coconut flavor, and more. Most houseboats and restaurants serve traditional Kerala meals on a banana leaf. Coconuts are also offered no matter what style you go with.

Here are some of the well-known dishes in Kerala:

Karimeen Pollichathu – Pearl spot fish marinated with spices, wrapped in a banana leaf and grilled

Prawns Curry – Prawns cooked in coconut milk with Kerala spices

Appam and Stew – Rice pancakes served with mild vegetable or chicken stew

Nadan Kozhi Curry – Spicy country chicken curry

Palpayasam – A rice pudding, served as a temple offering and also served as a dessert

Shopping

Although not a major shopping destination, it is possible to pick up some local handicrafts and souvenirs. Some of the things to buy:

Coir products – mats, rugs, and wall hangings

Spices – black pepper, cardamom, and cinnamon,

Handmade wooden souvenirs and jewelry

Kerala sarees and cotton dresses

Banana chips and cashew nuts

Mullakkal Street Market is the main shopping area in town where small shops sell locally produced goods.

Conclusion

Alleppey is undoubtedly one of the best travel destinations in Kerala, being a combination of natural splendor, cultural richness, and traditional way of life. With its backwaters, pristine beaches, and friendly people, it is the perfect spot to experience South India.

If you are planning a trip to Kerala, be sure to include Alleppey in your travel plans. It is most definitely a place that is worthy of its title, the Venice of the East.

Whether you’re taking in the beautiful scenery of the backwaters in a houseboat, having fun on a beach, or eating fresh seafood by the sea, your time in Alleppey will ensure unforgettable memories. It is an essential stop for any itinerary involving Kerala, especially those people looking for relaxation, nature, and the real deal.

Frequently asked questions

What is Alleppey famous for?

Alleppey is famous for its backwaters, houseboat cruises, serene beaches, traditional Kerala cuisine, and the Nehru Trophy Boat Race.

How to reach Alleppey?

Alleppey is well connected by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, about eighty two kilometers away. The town also has its own railway station connected to major cities.

How many days are enough to explore Alleppey?

Two days are enough to explore Alleppey’s backwaters, beaches, and major attractions. You can extend the trip to nearby places like Marari Beach and Vembanad Lake.

What are the top attractions in Alleppey?

Top attractions include Alleppey Backwaters, Houseboat Cruises, Alleppey Beach, Pathiramanal Island, Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple, and Kuttanad.

Kollam: A Peaceful Escape of Backwaters, Temples, and Cashew Towns.(2025)