Alleppey Destination Information

Alleppey

Alappuzha, commonly referred to as Alleppey, is a captivating city in Kerala, often described as the "Venice of the East" due to its extensive network of waterways, including canals, backwaters, and lagoons. Situated on a narrow strip of land between the Arabian Sea and Vembanad Lake, the city offers a peaceful and scenic environment. Alleppey is celebrated for its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and tranquil atmosphere, providing a serene retreat for visitors.

The backwaters, which form the core of Alleppey's identity, consist of a maze of interconnected waterways, lakes, and rivers. These not only create stunning views but also serve as a unique mode of transportation. A signature Alleppey experience involves a relaxing journey on a traditional houseboat, which provides comfortable accommodations and an opportunity to observe local life up close.

Although less renowned than other Kerala beaches, Alleppey Beach offers pristine and peaceful shores, ideal for relaxation and water activities. The city boasts a fascinating history dating back to ancient times, with influences from various cultures, including Dutch, Portuguese, and British.

Alleppey is well known for its coir industry, producing items such as ropes, mats, and carpets that are exported globally. While the city is primarily recognized for its backwater attractions, it is also famous for its culinary offerings. Visitors can sample Kerala's seafood specialities, including fresh fish, prawns, and coconut-based dishes. Traditional Kerala cuisines, such as fish curry, appam, and Sadya, are also available for those seeking authentic flavours.

The Nehru Trophy snake boat race is a unique event that takes place in Alleppey, particularly during the Onam festival season and is considered a must-see attraction for visitors to the area.

Best time to visit: The ideal time to visit Alleppey is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and comfortable.

Best ways to reach Alleppey: 

By Air: The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport (COK) which is located about 90 Kms away from Alleppey and easily connects with other major destinations in India & overseas. 

By Rail: Alleppey has its railway station known as Alappuzha railway station (ALP), located right in the heart of the city. It is well-connected to major cities in India. 

By Road: Alleppey is connected to major cities in Kerala and other parts of India by National Highway 66.                

Places to visit in Alleppey: 

Alappuzha Beach: Situated in the heart of Kerala, Alappuzha Beach stands as a tranquil coastal haven. Although not as extensive or renowned as other beaches in the region, it provides a peaceful environment ideal for unwinding. A notable feature is the historic pier, over 150 years old, which stretches into the sea, offering visitors a pleasant spot for strolls and enjoying the ocean air. The beach plays host to several yearly events, including the Alappuzha Beach Festival and Sand Art Festival, which draw tourists from various locations. Nearby, the Alappuzha Lighthouse presents visitors with sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. The well-maintained and clean shoreline contributes to its appeal as a visitor destination. Alappuzha Beach is particularly celebrated for its breathtaking sunsets, considered a must-see attraction for those visiting the area.

Alleppey Lighthouse: The Alappuzha Lighthouse in Kerala stands out with its red and white stripes. Established in 1862, it measures 136 feet tall and is regarded as one of India's oldest lighthouses. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Arabian Sea, Vembanad Lake, and the surrounding environment. This historic monument provides unique insights into the region's maritime history and has a modest display space dedicated to its history and navigational significance. The lighthouse has become a popular tourist destination, attracting those interested in maritime beacons, history buffs, and others looking to enjoy the stunning views from its peak.

Timings: 15.00 hours and 16.30 hours on every weekday, 

Entrance fee: Rs.50 for foreigners & Rs. 20 for Indians. 

Revi Karuna Karan Memorial Museum: The museum is a treasure trove of artwork and artefacts. The Revi Karunakaran Memorial Museum is privately owned in Alappuzha, Kerala. It is famous for its rich collection of beautiful art and antiquities, which includes a sizable collection of Swarovski crystals and ivory. The museum is dedicated to Revi Karunakaran, a notable player in Kerala's coir industry. He was key in modernizing and growing the sector. The museum honours his memory and reflects his love of art and collections. The museum displays one of the largest private Swarovski crystal collections in the world. These magnificent sculptures, which range from delicate figurines to majestic chandeliers, are truly breathtaking. The museum also has an impressive collection of ivory carvings. These intricate and detailed pieces demonstrate the craftsmanship and talent of those who made them. In addition to crystals and ivory, the museum houses a broad collection of items, including porcelain, jade, Keralan artifacts, furniture, and Tanjore paintings. Many of the things on show in the museum were acquired by the Karunakaran family over decades, providing insight into their personal life.

Timings: 09.00 AM to 05.00 PM (need to report 04.00 PM)

Entrance fee: Rs.350 for foreigners & Rs.150 for Indians. 

Video Camera & Camera: not allowed. 

Holidays: Mondays & National holidays.

International Coir Museum: It is located near Kalavoor, which is 10 kilometres from Alleppey. It is a one-of-a-kind museum that chronicles the history and growth of the coir industry. It is a must-see for everyone interested in learning about the traditional craft and its importance to the region's economy. It depicts the history of coir, a natural fibre generated from coconut husks, from ancient times to present manufacturing techniques and applications. It features a diverse selection of coir products, such as floor coverings, mats, carpets, mattresses, ropes, and handicrafts. Visitors can watch demonstrations of traditional coir-making techniques, including husk extraction and weaving. The museum exhibits contemporary coir paintings and sculptures, demonstrating the plasticity of the medium. It provides insights into the modern coir industry, including its issues and future.

Timings: 09.30 AM to 05.00 PM 

Entrance fee: Rs.100 for foreigners & Rs.20 for Indians. 

Krishnapuram Palace: It is a historic palace located in Kayamkulam, which is around 45 kilometres and 01.05 hours from Alleppey. It was created in the 18th century by Anizham Thirunal Marthanda Varma of the Travancore kingdom, and it is well-known for its stunning mural paintings, architectural beauty, and historical significance. The palace houses Kerala's largest mural painting, "Gajendra Moksham," which depicts Lord Vishnu rescuing an elephant named Gajendra from a crocodile. Other murals feature scenes from mythology, history, and everyday life. Krishnapuram Palace represents Kerala's rich cultural and historical legacy. It depicts the lives of the Travancore royal family and the architectural traditions of the time through exquisite carvings and decorative detailing. The palace includes a variety of antiquities, including a double-edged Kayamkulam Vaal (sword), which provides additional insight into the region's past. The palace is built on a hilltop and surrounded by exquisite terraced gardens, fountains, and ponds, creating a tranquil and scenic ambience. It is now maintained by Kerala's Archaeological Department. The museum houses a collection of antique sculptures in stone, wood, metal, coins, and reproductions of paintings and inscriptions.

Timings: 09.00 AM to 04.30 PM 

Entrance fee: Rs.20 for both Indians & Foreigners & Children below 12 years is Rs.5 

Mobile Camera fee: Rs.10 

Video camera: Not allowed. 

Holidays: Monday 

Important Churches & Temples in Alleppey: 

Mullackal Raja Rajeswari Temple: This is a renowned Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Rajarajeswari in Mavelikkara, Alappuzha district. It is a popular pilgrimage destination for goddess lovers, particularly during the annual Navratri festival. The temple is primarily dedicated to Goddess Rajarajeswari, a strong manifestation of Goddess Parvati who is said to bring blessings of money, success, and happiness. The Navratri celebration, held at the temple, is a popular attraction for devotees. It includes nine nights of prayers, ceremonies, and offerings to the goddess. During this time, the temple is decorated with vibrant colours, and numerous ceremonies and cultural activities are held. The temple's sanctum sanctorum houses the idol of Goddess Rajarajeswari, which is said to be magical and endowed with divine powers. The temple exhibits traditional Kerala architectural style, with exquisite carvings, wooden columns, tiled roofs, and an ornate gopuram (tower). The temple is strongly rooted in Alappuzha's cultural legacy and has a great impact on the local community's spiritual lives. This temple also reveres Lord Krishna, Lord Naga, Lord Ayyappa, and Lord Hanuman. Mullakkal Chirappu is the largest celebration held here.  

Timings: 04.30 AM to 12.00 PM & from 05.00 PM to 08.00 PM.

Entrance fee: No 

Camera & Video Camera: Not allowed. 

Sree Krishna Temple, Ambalapuzha: The temple is approximately 15 kilometres from Alleppey. It is a popular Hindu temple devoted to Lord Krishna. It is best known for its delectable "Pal Payasam," a sweet delicacy comprised of rice, milk, and jaggery that is presented as a prasad (offering) to devotees. The temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna, one of Hinduism's most prominent deities. Devotees come here to seek blessings and achieve their spiritual goals. The temple's most well-known attraction is "Pal Payasam," a sweet dessert considered a delicacy in Kerala. It is thought to have healing effects and is commonly consumed as prasad. In March or April, the temple celebrates an annual event called "Arattu," during which the deity's icon is taken out in a procession to the neighbouring Puzha River for a ritual bath. The temple's main event is Onam, a harvest festival observed throughout Kerala. During Onam, the temple holds a great festival featuring a variety of cultural events and offerings. The Sree Krishna Temple is culturally significant in Kerala. It is a centre for worship, spiritual healing, and community meetings. The festival's primary features include processions of caparisoned elephants accompanied by percussion instrument music (vadya-melams) and Velakali, a martial art form.

Timings: 03.00 AM to 12.00 PM & from 05.00 PM to 08.00 PM 

Entrance fee: No 

Camera & Video Camera: Not allowed. 

Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple: The temple is located in Mannarasala, near Haripad, 32 kilometers south of Alleppey. It is a well-known Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Nagaraja, the king of snakes. This temple is very important for snake worshippers and people looking for protection from snakebites. This ancient serpent shrine honours the serpent God, Nagaraja. Many childless couples visit this temple to seek Nagaraja's blessings for children. The Uruli Kamazhthal is the most popular offering at this temple. The temple's principal deity is Lord Nagaraja, who is revered as the protector of the world and its inhabitants. The temple's most prominent event is Nag Panchami, which honours snakes. During Nag Panchami, the temple is adorned with colorful decorations and draws hundreds of devotees. Devotees think that worshipping Lord Nagaraja here will protect them from snake bites and other snake-related problems. The Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple is an important cultural site in Kerala. It is a center for worship, spiritual healing, and community meetings. Devotees frequently offer milk, flowers, and other tributes to Lord Nagaraja. Some devotees bring live snakes to the temple to symbolize their devotion. The temple complex contains various serpent sculptures that represent the relationship between people and snakes.

Timings: 06.00 AM to 12.00 PM & from 05.00 PM to 08.30 PM 

Entrance fee: No 

Camera & Video Camera: Not allowed. 

Edathua Church: The Edathua Church is a historic Christian church located in Edathua, which is about 28 Kms away from Alleppey town. It is a significant place of worship for the local Christian community and is known for its beautiful architecture and rich history. It is part of the Church of South India (CSI), a Protestant denomination. The Edathua Church has a long and rich history dating back several centuries. It is believed to have been established during the colonial era, when Christianity was introduced to Kerala by Portuguese and Dutch missionaries. The church showcases beautiful architecture, with intricate carvings, stained glass windows, and a towering steeple. The Edathua Church plays a significant role in the cultural life of the local community. It is a place of worship, spiritual solace, and community gatherings. The church celebrates various annual festivals, including Easter and Christmas, which are marked by religious services, prayers, and community celebrations. Edathua Church is also known as St. George Forane Church or “Eduthua Palli” and is dedicated to St. George. This Church closely resembles churches of medieval Europe. The major celebration of this Church is the annual feast that is celebrated on or around 7th May every year. This feast is popularly known as "Edathua Perunnal" and the gold statue of St. George is placed on a dais in the middle of the Church for 11 days during this feast. Edathua Church is well-known for miraculous cures of mental disorders and other ailments. This Church attracts not only Christians but also Non-Christians from different parts of the country.

Arthunkal Church: It is a prominent Christian church located in Arthunkal, 25 Kms away from Alleppey Town. It is a significant pilgrimage site, especially during the annual Arthunkal Feast, which attracts thousands of devotees from all over the country. The church is dedicated to St. Andrew, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. Devotees believe that praying to St. Andrew can grant blessings and protection. Arthunkal St. Andrew's Basilica, also known as Arthunkal Church is the largest shrine of St. Sebastian in the World. This Church has a statue of bleeding St. Sebastian, struck with arrows all over his body. The feast of St. Sebastian is the main festival of this Church. This festival lasts for 10 days and is popularly known as "Arthunkal Perunnal". Every year it is celebrated in the starting of the month of January. It is believed that the church has the power to heal physical handicaps and mental disorders. The church showcases a blend of architectural styles, reflecting its historical significance. It features intricate carvings, stained glass windows, and a towering steeple.

Champakulam Church: Located in Champakulam, 16 kilometers from Alleppey Town, Champakulam St. Mary’s Forane Church is a significant place of worship for the local Christian community, renowned for its beautiful architecture and rich history. The church features a blend of architectural styles that reflect its colonial heritage, with intricate carvings, stained glass windows, and a towering steeple among its most notable elements. The church has played a pivotal role in the cultural and social development of Champakulam, being actively involved in various community initiatives and charitable activities. Believed to be one of the seven churches established by St. Thomas, one of the apostles of Jesus Christ, it is one of the oldest churches in Kerala and a prominent pilgrimage center. It is also considered the mother church of nearly all Catholic Syrian churches in Alleppey. The church hosts its annual feast on the 3rd Sunday of October and celebrates the feast of St. Joseph every year on March 19th.

Chavara Bhavan: Chavara Bhavan is a sacred pilgrimage destination located near Kainakary, 15 kilometers from Alleppey town. It is the ancestral residence of Saint Kuriakose Elias Chavara, a well-known Catholic priest and social reformer from the nineteenth century. Chavara Bhavan is an important pilgrimage site for Catholics and those seeking spiritual peace. Devotees believe that visiting the shrine will result in blessings and spiritual enlightenment. The Bhavan is a historic site that preserves Saint Chavara's memories and legacy. It houses personal things, antiques, and photographs from the saint's life. The bhavan's founder, St. Kuriakose Elias Chavara, was a visionary leader who contributed significantly to social reforms and the restoration of the Syro-Malabar Church. The Chavara Bhavan actively participates in community development activities by offering educational opportunities, healthcare services, and social welfare programs. The yearly feast of Saint Chavara is celebrated with great enthusiasm at the bhavan, drawing hundreds of devotees. The Chavara Bhavan is today protected as a holy shrine and spiritual retreat, with thousands of devotees come here to pray. This shrine holds Mass and Novena Prayers on a regular basis, as well as special prayers on the first Saturday of each month.

Important local Festivals in Alleppey:        

Mullakkal Temple is a renowned Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Rajarajeswari located in Alappuzha. One of its most prominent festivals is the Cherappu Festival, also known as Chirappu. The festival spans 41 days, with the last 11 days being the most significant. The festival features grand processions involving grand caparisoned elephants, colourful cultural programs, and fireworks displays. Devotees from far and wide come to offer prayers to the goddess and seek her blessings. The festival showcases various traditional Kerala cultural arts and performances. A grand feast is served to thousands of devotees on the final day. The Cherappu Festival is a vibrant and spiritually significant event that attracts a large number of devotees and tourists. It's a great opportunity to experience the rich cultural heritage of Kerala and witness the grandeur of Hindu temple festivals.

Alleppey beach: Beach fest (December to January):The Alleppey Beach Fest is a lively annual event in the coastal town of Alleppey (Alappuzha), Kerala, celebrating the region's backwaters, cultural heritage, and adventurous spirit. The festival features a variety of water sports, including kayaking, canoeing, and houseboat cruises. Attendees can enjoy beach parties with music, dance, and entertainment, along with traditional Keralite performances like Kathakali, Kalaripayattu, and Bharatanatyam. The event also includes musical concerts, art exhibitions, and a Sand Sculpting Competition. With a diverse array of local and international cuisine, the festival offers a rich cultural experience in a stunning setting.

Things to do at Alleppey: 

01: Backwater cruise in Kettuvalloms or Houseboat : The ideal way to experience the backwaters of Alleppey is by staying on a houseboat. These houseboats come in A/C and non-A/C options, offering Deluxe and Luxury facilities. Rooms are available in single, double, and triple configurations, all featuring wooden furnishings. Each houseboat is equipped with a sundeck, a balcony with chairs, a kitchen, and bathrooms. Various cruise options are available, including a 01-night stay on a houseboat or a day cruise with lunch, either in an A/C or non-A/C setting. Hop on a customized houseboat and drift through the serene backwaters of Alleppey for an unforgettable experience.

02: Evening Canoe Ride: Exploring the backwaters of Alleppey by canoe (country boat) is an exhilarating and immersive experience. Hop into a canoe for a scenic journey through the world-famous Alleppey backwaters, gliding along narrow canals flanked by coconut groves and paddy fields. This intimate ride offers a unique opportunity to get up close to the local life of Alleppey, allowing you to interact with residents and gain deeper insights into their way of life.

03: Guided Alleppey Village Walk: Alleppey is a blissful village gifted with a unique backwater chain and gorgeous countryside. This exclusive Alleppey Village Walk allows one to experience the real side of Alleppey. Your guide would keep you entertained throughout the walking program. He will take you through the lush green paddy fields, canal sideways and local houses to interact with the people. As you stroll through the Alleppey countryside, he will narrate the history of Alleppey, the farmers, paddy fields, rice cultivation and more about the local life here in this part of the world.

04: Guided Alleppey Cycling Tour: What better way to experience the countryside than by cycling? Pedal through the rural villages of Alleppey and take in the breathtaking beauty of this stunning backwater destination. Our Alleppey guide will lead you along the most unique paths, offering you an unforgettable cycling experience in this backwater paradise. Conclude your tour with a stop at a local tea shop, the favourite gathering spot for Alleppey residents to discuss everything from local news to world events. Enjoy a sip of hot tea and soak in the lively conversations of the locals.

05: Cooking demo with lunch with a local family: Spend an afternoon with a local family in Alleppey and immerse yourself in their culture. This visit offers a unique opportunity to learn more about the people of Alleppey as you interact with the family. Enjoy a cooking demonstration led by the housewife, where you'll learn to prepare some of the most famous backwater specialities. Afterwards, indulge in a traditional Kerala-style lunch served on a banana leaf, featuring delicious Alleppey specialities. 

06: Kayaking along the Alleppey Backwaters: If you are looking for some adventure in Alleppey, opt for a Kayaking experience at the glistening backwaters of Alleppey. Glide through the narrow canals and witness the day-to-day life of Alleppey while you paddle.

07: Motor Boat Cruise / Shikkara boat ride: There are different types of Motor boat cruises in Alleppey. Based on the number of hours you chose the boat would take you to various sites of Alleppey backwaters. If one chooses the motor boat cruise they cannot enjoy an overnight stay, they can ride through the backwaters of Alleppey on an hourly basis.

Boat Races at Alleppey: 

Nehru Trophy Boat Race: The Nehru Trophy Boat Race is the most prestigious of Kerala's premier snake boat races. Named after India’s first Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, this event is a major tourist attraction. Held annually on the second Saturday of August on Punnamada Lake near Alleppey, the race draws thousands of visitors from both within India and abroad. The highlight of the Nehru Trophy Boat Race is the thrilling competition of Chundan Vallams (snake boats), which captivates spectators with its intensity and tradition.

Payippadu Boat Race: The Payippadu Boat Race is a three-day water festival conducted annually on the Payippadu River in Alappuzha. This is one of the oldest boat races in Kerala which involves the largest participation of snake boats after the Nehru Trophy boat race. The Payippadu Boat Race is mainly held during August or September. 

Champakulam Moolam Boat Race: Popularly known as the Champakkulam Moolam Vallam Kali, It is the oldest Snake Boat Race in the State, conducted on the Malayalam month Midhunam on Moolam day. This Boat Race is held annually during June on the Pampa River. 

Aranmula Boat Race: The famous Aranmula Uthrittathi Vallamkali is the oldest riverboat fiesta in Kerala. It is held on the River Pampa, beside a temple dedicated to Lord Krishna and Arjuna. This boat race is conducted annually during August or September.

Other boat races: Champions Boat League (CBL) has been conceived by tourism officials in Kerala on the model of the Indian Premier League (IPL) to transform the state’s legendary and historically significant “vallamkali” (snake boat races) into a world-class sporting event.

Hotels in Alleppey: 

Restaurant details in Alleppey: 

• Brothers Hotel (Thali meal) 
• Thaff restaurant (Thali meal)
• Cassia
• Cream Corner 
• Bianco Restaurant 
• The harbor (sea food)
• Halaiyies (Specially for Halal food)
• Mushroom restaurant (Specially for Halal food)

Hospitals at Alleppey: 

• Vandanam Medical College (Government hospital)
• W & C hospital (Government hospital)
• General Hospital (Government hospital)
• Sahrudaya Hospital
• San Jose Hospital
• Providence Hospital
• Pazhaveedu Medical care