Top Places to Visit in Alleppey – The Complete Backwaters Guide

Well-renowned for its serene backwaters, Alleppey is an idyllic tourist destination thronged by families, backpackers, and honeymooners alike. Fondly revered as the Venice of the East, Alleppey boasts of a sprawling labyrinth of numerous azure lakes, lagoons, canals, and freshwater rivers. Whether it is a break from the drudgery of your daily life or a tranquil romantic retreat, Alleppey has much in store to make your visit an incredibly memorable experience.

Being a coastal destination, Alleppey is an-all weather place. However, the best time to visit Alleppey is from November to February when the weather is pleasant and ideal to explore this heavenly destination. While those who prefer the burst of greenery ushered in by the rains can visit Alleppey during the monsoon from June to September. Though houseboat rides and other popular tourist activities are unavailable during the monsoons, soaking in the rain-washed brilliance of Alleppey is a fascinating experience you will cherish for posterity.

Though famous for its expansive crisscrossing network of backwaters, there are endlessly fascinating places to visit in Alleppey. From spectacular sun-dried beaches, alluring lakes, and colorful lagoons to lush paddy fields and ageless temples, this coastal paradise promises to satiate your wanderlust with its endearing charm.

While in Alleppey, a houseboat cruise is an absolute must to explore the intersecting waterways and the surrounding local villages. The other places to visit in Alleppey include Alappuzha Beach, Krishnapuram Palace, Ambalappuzha Temple, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, Kuttanad paddy fields, and Pathiramanal Island.

Besides the local sightseeing options, exciting backwater boat cruises, and beach tours, there are plenty of interesting things to do in Alleppey. Indulge yourself in relaxing Ayurvedic massage therapy, stroll along the unspoiled beaches, or go for local and migratory bird watching at the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary. The lively kayak tours on the placid backwaters is a not-to-be-missed activity for the kayaking enthusiasts. You can also visit the floating market, Floating Triveni, for buying spice or trinkets and local handicraft items.

If time is not a constraint, then you must also drop by at the International Coir Museum in Alleppey where you can see an extensive array of products made from dried coconut husk. And if you happen to visit Alleppey during the monsoons, do not forget to witness the thrilling snake boat races.

Another exciting way to explore this backwater haven is through its palatable cuisine. From mouthwatering seafood to flavorsome paratha, delicious fish curry, and crispy banana chips, the restaurants in Alleppey will leave all foodies spoilt for choice.

While on a trip to Alleppey, you must dig into the pepper grilled chicken at the multicuisine Harbour Restaurant or try the Alleppey fish curry or paneer-cashew curry at Chakara. There is also the local alcoholic beverage, toddy, to wash down the food.

Since it is well connected by road, air, and rail, you can choose any convenient mode of transport to reach Alleppey. The nearest airport is in Cochin from where you can take a taxi to reach Alleppey. You can also reach Alleppey through state-run buses from most of the major cities in Kerala. You can also take buses from Bangalore, Chennai, and Mysore to reach Alleppey.