Officially known as Alappuzha, Alleppey is a prominent tourist destination in India. Famed for its backwaters and home to a vast network of waterways, Alleppey is popularly referred to as the ‘Venice of East’. Blessed with sun-kissed beaches, azure lagoons, evergreen coconut groves, and picturesque beauty, Alleppey is undeniably called ‘Backwater Paradise in God’s Own Country’! Besides this, Alleppey is renowned for its exotic Ayurvedic massages and is among the ideal places for rejuvenating experiences.
Bordering the Laccadive Sea, Alleppey is a gem along the Malabar Coast. The history of Alleppey is traced back to the 1st Century AD when St Thomas, one of the disciples of Jesus Christ, arrived here and introduced Christianity. Dutch and Portuguese further strengthened the foothold of Christianity. Alappuzha became an important Kerala trade center in the olden times under Maharaja Marthanda Varma and is still an important center of the booming Kerala coir industry.
Alleppey Tourism
The pristine backwater is a significant part of Alleppey tourism. Also, peaceful locales and spellbinding landscapes make Alleppey a heavenly abode. It is also home to some of the best Ayurvedic resorts that provide an unforgettable luxurious experience. Alleppey is also known for its vast network of interlinked and palm-fringed canals. Houseboat cruises are the revoked version of Kettuvalams of the older version. These houseboats are equipped with all the comforts, making Alleppey a perfect destination to venture into when in Kerala. Alappuzha Tourism includes the oldest church in India, St. Mary Forane Church, inviting many religious tourists.
Why Visit Alleppey?
If staying amidst natural beauty on a houseboat is your idea of a holiday, visit Alleppey. Alleppey backwaters are among the cherished aspects of this destination, which houses a range of animals and birds. Thus, attracting wildlife enthusiasts as well. A houseboat ride in Alleppey will help you escape the humdrum of city life and enjoy a holiday in peace. Foodies will have a fulfilling experience as mouthwatering Kerala delicacies are served on the houseboat.
Beach lovers can visit Alleppey for Alappuzha Beach, which has a 150-year-old pier. It also hosts annual events like Alappuzha Beach Festival and Sand Art Festival. Whether kids or adults, Alleppey offers plenty of fun things to do, like cycling, kayaking, Ayurvedic treatments, and more.
Languages Spoken in Alleppey
Malayalam and English are the most commonly spoken languages in Alleppey. Learn some Malayalam words before you visit for smooth communication. For instance, Nanni is Thank you, Onnu sahaayikkumo? is Can you help me?.
Where is Alleppey located?
Alleppey is a city in the southern state of Kerala. Some tourist places near Alleppey are Kochi, Kollam, Thrissur, Trivandrum, Coimbatore, etc.
Places to Visit in Alleppey
Apart from the captivating Alappuzha Beach, there are many Alleppey tourist places. The prime attraction of Alappuzha is the famous annual Nehru Trophy Boat Race held at Punnamada Kayal on the second Saturday of every August. You can also visit Pathiramanal, popular for different species of colorful birds.
Some famous places to visit in Alleppey are:
- Mullukal Temple hosts an annual music festival
- the Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple
- Krishnapuram Temple Devi Temple
- Chettikulangara Bhagavathy Temple
- Kottamkulangara Mahavishnu Temple
- St. Andrews Church
- Gajendra Miksham
Things to Do in Alleppey
There are many things to do in Alleppey that can make your vacations a little more exciting. For example, you can spend a night in the houseboat and experience an enthralling escapade or swim at Pozhiyoram Beach. Also, participate in the famous Snake Boat Race or rejuvenate yourself at the Sreekrishna Ayurveda Center.
Some fun things to do in Alleppey are:
- Houseboat cruising
- Rejuvenating in Ayurvedic Spa and massages
- Boat riding
- Going for a sunset walk
- Canoeing village tour
- Kayaking
- Cycling
Best Time to Visit Alleppey
The best time to visit Alleppey is from February to March when the weather remains pleasant. In the summer, the climate of Alappuzha is generally temperate and humid. June to August experience heavy rains, but some tourists find this alluring and visit Alleppey to see the lush green environment.
However, winter weather remains relatively more enjoyable and comfortable for sightseeing. October to February is the peak season in Alleppey, offering ideal weather conditions to indulge in houseboat cruising, canoeing, etc. Honeymooners can plan an Alleppey trip to enjoy romantic times in perfect weather.
How to Reach Alleppey?
The nearest international airports to Alleppey are Kochi (85 km) and Thiruvananthapuram (150 km). Excellent road and rail network links the district to all major towns and cities in India. Alleppey railway station is the primary railhead that serves this town. In addition, there are numerous trains to Alleppey from other major cities.
Alleppey is also linked by boat service through the backwaters to Quilon, Changanacherry, Kumarakom, Cochin, Kumarakom, and Chengannor. The city is well connected by roads from the nearby towns. Regular buses are available from places like Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, and several other major cities.
How to Get Around Alleppey?
You can travel within Alleppey by local buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws. The city has a great network of buses connecting most parts of the town. Also, you can hire a cab or board a shared taxi to travel within the city. Boats and ferries are other options to get around in Alleppey.
How many days are enough to visit Alleppey?
4-5 days are enough to explore the best of Alleppey. You can visit the top tourist places, enjoy activities, and stay in the houseboat for a memorable experience.
Accommodation in Alleppey
There is a range of accommodating options in Alleppey, from luxury to budget hotels and resorts. Some of the best accommodation options in Alleppey are:
- Treebo Tryst Palmyra Milford
- Ramada Alleppey
- Alleppey Holiday Beach Resort
- Raheem Residency
- Ameya Kerala
- Haven Alleppey Beach Villa
- Abad Premium Houseboat
Where to Eat in Alleppey?
Located on the Malabar Coast, you will find many popular local cuisines, such as Ghee roast Dosa and Malayalee Porotha. They also serve seafood along with local alcoholic beverages and toddy.
Some popular restaurants in Alleppey where you can satiate your cravings are:
- Royal Park Hotel
- Kream Korner
- Café Katamaran
- Chakara
- Thaff
- Royale Chimney
- Halais
Shopping in Alleppey
Alleppey is a popular place for shopaholics. The local markets and street-side stalls make it an amazing place for shopping. In addition, you can buy souvenirs for your loved ones. The most common things to buy in Alleppey are authentic spices, textiles, handicrafts, carpets, trinkets, and jewelry. You can also shop for rugs and carpets woven of coconut fibers and excellent quality coir.
Some popular shopping places in Alleppey are:
- Khadi Gram Udyog Bhawan
- Pulickattil Handicrafts
- Sharda Shopping Complex
- Canal Bazaar
- Mullakal Street
- Floating Triveni
Travel Tips for Alleppey
- Make sure you embark on a houseboat tour, a popular thing to do in Alleppey.
- Carry a medical kit and necessary medicines.
- Do not forget to carry important documents, including tickets, cash, etc.
- Book your accommodation in advance to save yourself from last-minute hassles.
- Wear comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes during sightseeing.
- Also, wear proper clothes while visiting religious places.
- Try local cuisines and learn about their culture.
