Things to Do in Alleppey
Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha, is a charming coastal town in the southern state of Kerala, India. Renowned for its picturesque backwaters, serene beaches, and lush landscapes, Alleppey offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a peaceful getaway, Alleppey has something for everyone. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Alleppey, including activities for different durations and interests.
Also Read: Top 10 Must Try Foods on Your Next Kerala Trip
Best Things to Do in Alleppey
- Houseboat Cruise: Explore the tranquil backwaters of Alleppey on a traditional houseboat cruise. Witness the picturesque landscapes, lush greenery, and local life along the waterways.
- Visit Alleppey Beach: Relax on the golden sands of Alleppey Beach and witness breathtaking sunsets over the Arabian Sea.
- Kerala Backwater Tour: Experience the beauty of Kerala’s backwaters with a boat tour through the intricate network of canals, lakes, and lagoons.
- Explore Alleppey’s Temples: Visit the ancient temples in Alleppey, such as Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple and Mannarasala Nagaraja Temple, known for their architectural beauty and cultural significance.
- Attend a Kathakali Performance: Immerse yourself in Kerala’s traditional art form, Kathakali, known for its elaborate costumes, mesmerizing music, and expressive dance.
- Try Local Cuisine: Indulge in Kerala’s authentic cuisine, including delicious seafood dishes, appam with stew, and traditional Kerala meals served on a banana leaf.
- Visit Alleppey’s Museums: Explore Alleppey’s rich history and culture at the Revi Karunakaran Museum and Punnapra Beach.
- Relax with Ayurvedic Treatments: Rejuvenate your mind and body with traditional Ayurvedic treatments and massages at one of Alleppey’s many Ayurvedic centers.
- Shopping: Shop for souvenirs and local handicrafts at Alleppey’s markets, including spices, coir products, and traditional Kerala sarees.
Things to Do in Alleppey at Night
- Night Cruise: Experience the serene beauty of the backwaters under the moonlight with a night cruise.
- Dine at a Houseboat: Enjoy a romantic dinner aboard a houseboat, surrounded by the tranquil waters and starlit sky.
- Beach Bonfire: Relax by a beach bonfire and enjoy the soothing sound of the waves.
Things to Do in Alleppey in 2 Days
If you have two days to spend in Alleppey, you can explore the best of what this charming town has to offer. Here’s a suggested itinerary for things to do in Alleppey in 2 days:
Day 1:
Morning:
- Houseboat Cruise: Start your day with a memorable houseboat cruise through the backwaters of Alleppey. Enjoy the serene beauty of the waterways, surrounded by lush greenery.
Afternoon:
- Lunch: Enjoy a delicious Kerala meal on board the houseboat, prepared with local ingredients and traditional spices.
- Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple: Visit this ancient temple known for its beautiful architecture and historical significance. Take a tour of the temple premises and learn about its rich cultural heritage.
Evening:
- Explore Alleppey Beach: Head to Alleppey Beach to relax and unwind. Take a leisurely stroll along the sandy shores and watch the mesmerizing sunset over the Arabian Sea.
Night:
- Dinner at a Houseboat: Experience a romantic dinner aboard a houseboat, surrounded by the tranquil backwaters. Enjoy a sumptuous meal under the starlit sky.
Day 2:
Morning:
- Kerala Backwater Tour: Embark on a boat tour through the intricate network of canals, lakes, and lagoons that make up the backwaters of Kerala. Experience the beauty of the backwaters and witness local life along the waterways.
Afternoon:
- Lunch: Enjoy a traditional Kerala meal at a local restaurant, sampling some of the region’s authentic flavors.
- Ayurvedic Massage: Relax and rejuvenate with an Ayurvedic massage at one of Alleppey’s many Ayurvedic centers. Treat yourself to a soothing massage using herbal oils and techniques.
Evening:
- Shopping: Explore the local markets in Alleppey and shop for souvenirs and handicrafts. Pick up some spices, coir products, and traditional Kerala sarees as mementos of your trip.
Night:
- Night Cruise: End your day with a peaceful night cruise through the backwaters. Experience the beauty of the backwaters under the moonlight, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
This itinerary allows you to experience the best of Alleppey in just two days, combining the tranquility of the backwaters with the rich cultural experiences the town has to offer.
Things to Do in Alleppey Backwaters
- Houseboat Cruise: Experience the backwaters with a houseboat cruise, including overnight stays for a more immersive experience.
- Canoeing and Kayaking: Explore the narrow canals and waterways of the backwaters on a canoe or kayak tour.
- Village Tours: Take a guided tour of the backwater villages to experience the local way of life and interact with the friendly locals.
Things to Do in Alleppey Boat House
- Stay Overnight: Experience the unique opportunity to stay overnight on a traditional Kerala houseboat, complete with all modern amenities.
- Relax and Enjoy the Views: Sit back, relax, and enjoy the stunning views of the backwaters from your houseboat.
Top 10 Things to Do in Alleppey
- Houseboat Cruise
- Visit Alleppey Beach
- Kerala Backwater Tour
- Explore Alleppey’s Temples
- Attend a Kathakali Performance
- Try Local Cuisine
- Visit Alleppey’s Museums
- Relax with Ayurvedic Treatments
- Shopping
- Night Cruise
Unique Things to Do in Alleppey
- Snake Boat Race: Witness the thrilling snake boat races held during the Onam festival, showcasing Kerala’s rich cultural heritage.
- Stay in a Homestay: Experience the warm hospitality of the locals by staying in a traditional Kerala homestay.
- Paddy Field Cycling: Explore the picturesque paddy fields of Alleppey on a cycling tour, offering a unique perspective of the countryside.
- Fishing Experience: Join the local fishermen for a traditional fishing experience on the backwaters.
Things to Do in Alleppey for Couples
- Romantic Dinner Cruise: Enjoy a candlelight dinner aboard a houseboat, surrounded by the tranquil backwaters.
- Beach Picnic: Spend a romantic day at Alleppey Beach, complete with a picnic and sunset views.
- Couples Spa Retreat: Indulge in a relaxing couples’ spa treatment, featuring traditional Ayurvedic massages.
Things to Do in Alleppey Early Morning
- Sunrise Cruise: Witness the mesmerizing sunrise over the backwaters with an early morning cruise.
- Bird Watching: Explore the backwaters early in the morning for a chance to spot a variety of bird species, including kingfishers, herons, and egrets.
Things to Do in Alleppey with Family
- Backwater Picnic: Enjoy a family picnic on the banks of the backwaters, surrounded by lush greenery.
- Visit to a Spice Garden: Take your family on a tour of a spice garden to learn about the various spices grown in Kerala.
- Houseboat Stay: Experience a memorable family stay aboard a houseboat, complete with delicious meals and scenic views.
Alleppey’s natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality make it a perfect destination for a memorable getaway. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled vacation, Alleppey has something for everyone. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the enchanting beauty of Alleppey!
