Magic of South India
Explore the Enchanting South
AAlleppey (Alappuzha), often referred to as the "Venice of the East," is famous for its scenic backwaters, serene beaches, and lush greenery. Known for its network of canals, lagoons, and houseboats, Alleppey offers a unique experience for travelers seeking a tranquil getaway. Whether you want to cruise through the iconic Kerala backwaters, indulge in Ayurvedic treatments, or relax on the beaches, Alleppey has something for everyone. Munnar Alleppy
Overview: Alappuzha Beach is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Alleppey, known for its picturesque shoreline and a historic pier extending into the sea. The beach is perfect for evening strolls and enjoying the sunset.
Activities: Beach volleyball, camel rides, and exploring the nearby lighthouse.
Best Time to Visit: October to March.
How to Reach: Located 4 km from the Alleppey town center, the beach is easily accessible by taxi or auto-rickshaw.
Entry Fee: Free
Overview: The Alleppey backwaters are the star attraction of the region, offering a serene escape amidst lush paddy fields, coconut groves, and picturesque villages. Houseboat cruises are the best way to explore the backwaters.
Activities: Houseboat cruises, canoe rides, and village tours.
Best Time to Visit: August to February.
How to Reach: Houseboats depart from several locations, including Punnamada Lake, which is about 5 km from the town center. You can reach the houseboat jetties by taxi or auto-rickshaw.
Entry Fee: Depends on the houseboat package (starting at ₹5,000 per night for a basic houseboat stay).
Overview: Krishnapuram Palace is an ancient palace built in the traditional Kerala style of architecture, known for its gabled roofs and narrow corridors. The palace also houses one of the largest mural paintings in Kerala, known as the “Gajendra Moksha.”
Timings: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM (Closed on Mondays)
How to Reach: Located around 47 km from Alleppey town, the palace can be reached by taxi or bus.
Entry Fee: ₹10 for adults, ₹5 for children
Overview: Marari Beach is a peaceful and less crowded alternative to Alappuzha Beach. It is a great spot to relax, sunbathe, and enjoy the pristine beauty of Kerala’s coastline. The beach is also known for its eco-friendly resorts and Ayurvedic treatments.
Best Time to Visit: November to February.
How to Reach: Located 11 km from Alleppey town, Marari Beach can be reached by taxi or auto-rickshaw.
Entry Fee: Free
Overview: Vembanad Lake, the largest lake in Kerala, is a major attraction for tourists visiting Alleppey. The lake stretches across several districts and is a hub for houseboats and backwater cruises. It also hosts the famous Nehru Trophy Boat Race.
Activities: Houseboat stays, boating, bird watching, and attending the annual boat race.
Best Time to Visit: August to February.
How to Reach: The lake is accessible from multiple points, including Kumarakom and Alleppey. You can hire a taxi or take a boat ride from nearby jetties.
Entry Fee: Free (Boat rides cost extra)
Overview: Pathiramanal Island is a small, uninhabited island in Vembanad Lake, famous for its rich biodiversity and birdwatching opportunities. The island is a haven for migratory birds, making it a must-visit for bird lovers.
Best Time to Visit: November to March.
How to Reach: The island is accessible by a short boat ride from Alleppey or Kumarakom.
Entry Fee: Free (Boat ride charges extra)
Overview: The Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple is one of Kerala's most famous temples, dedicated to Lord Krishna. It is renowned for its beautiful Kerala-style architecture and its delicious "Ambalappuzha Palpayasam" (a sweet rice pudding served as a prasadam).
Timings: 3:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Best Time to Visit: During the temple festivals (March-April).
How to Reach: Located about 15 km from Alleppey town, the temple can be reached by taxi or bus.
Entry Fee: Free
Overview: Known as the "Rice Bowl of Kerala," Kuttanad is famous for its below-sea-level farming and scenic backwater landscapes. A boat cruise through the region offers a glimpse into the traditional Kerala lifestyle and the unique agricultural practices of the area.
Best Time to Visit: August to February.
How to Reach: Kuttanad is about 12 km from Alleppey town and can be accessed via houseboat or road.
Entry Fee: Free (Houseboat or boat ride costs apply)
By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport (COK), located about 78 km from Alleppey. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Alleppey. By Train: Alleppey Railway Station is well-connected to major cities in Kerala and neighboring states. Trains from Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, and other cities frequently halt here. By Road: Alleppey is well-connected by road, with frequent bus services from Kochi, Kottayam, and Thiruvananthapuram. Private taxis and rental cars are also available.
Alleppey offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury houseboats and beach resorts to budget-friendly homestays and guesthouses. Popular areas to stay include the backwater region, near Alappuzha Beach, and in the Kuttanad area.
The best time to visit Alleppey is from November to February, when the weather is pleasant and perfect for backwater cruises and beach activities. Monsoon (June to September) is also a good time to experience the backwaters, but houseboat rides may be limited due to rain.
Alleppey is known for its rich coastal cuisine, with seafood being the star of the menu. Must-try dishes include Alleppey fish curry, Karimeen pollichathu (pearl spot fish), appam with stew, and traditional Kerala Sadya. Many houseboats also offer freshly prepared meals made from locally sourced ingredients.