Things To Do
in Alleppey
Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha, is a picturesque town located in the southern state of Kerala, India. It is famous for its mesmerizing backwaters, lush green paddy fields, and intricate network of canals and waterways. The town is also known for hosting the annual Nehru Trophy Boat Race, a popular event that attracts tourists from around the world.
With its serene natural beauty and unique houseboat cruises, Alleppey offers a tranquil escape for travelers seeking a peaceful retreat in the heart of Kerala's backwaters.
- "kiddan" - How are you?
- "shukriya" - Thank you
- "tuhada naa ki hai" - What is your name?
- "ki haal chaal" - How are things?
- "chalo" - Let's go
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $0.60
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a relaxing boat ride through the serene backwaters of Alleppey. Enjoy the stunning views of lush green landscapes and traditional Kerala houses along the water.
Visit the local markets to experience the vibrant culture and taste some delicious street food. Don't forget to shop for unique handicrafts and souvenirs.
Unwind at a beachside café while watching the sunset over the Arabian Sea. Savor some fresh seafood delicacies as you soak in the tranquil atmosphere.
Take a guided tour of a local paddy field to learn about traditional farming practices in Kerala. Engage with farmers and see how rice is cultivated in this fertile region.
Enjoy a traditional Kerala lunch at a farm, featuring fresh ingredients sourced from the fields. Experience the homey ambiance and hospitality of local communities.
Return to your accommodation and participate in a cooking class. Prepare Kerala dishes using local spices and ingredients for an authentic culinary experience.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful backwaters and scenic landscapes
- Rich cultural heritage and traditional festivals
- Delicious local cuisine, especially seafood
- Opportunities for houseboat rides and Ayurvedic treatments
- Welcoming and friendly locals
- Unique wildlife and biodiversity in nearby reserves
- Heavy rainfall during monsoon season can disrupt travel plans
- Overcrowding in peak tourist season
- Some areas may have limited infrastructure and amenities
- Possible mosquito and insect issues due to tropical climate
- Balancing tourism with environmental preservation can be challenging
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options
Best Activities in Alleppey
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the backwaters of Alleppey on a traditional houseboat and enjoy the scenic beauty and tranquility of the area.
Paddle through the narrow canals and waterways, witnessing the local life and lush greenery from a unique perspective.
Discover the rural charm of Alleppey by cycling through the picturesque countryside, interacting with locals and experiencing the traditional way of life.
Relax on the sandy shores of Alleppey Beach, soak in the sun, and enjoy the serene atmosphere of the coastline.
Tours
Uncover the best of Alleppey with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Alleppey
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers beautiful views of the Arabian Sea and a picturesque setting for capturing memorable photos
Boat rides through the serene backwaters provide stunning views of the lush greenery, traditional houseboats, and local life, perfect for photography
A pristine beach with golden sands and clear waters, offering a peaceful and idyllic setting for photography and enjoying beautiful sunsets
Food in Alleppey
Alleppey Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular dish featuring marinated pearl spot fish, wrapped in banana leaf and grilled to perfection. Recommended to try at Vembanad Restaurant.
Must-Try!
A spicy fish curry made with a rich blend of Kerala spices. Best enjoyed at Dreamer Restaurant.
Soft and lacy pancakes paired with a fragrant mixed vegetable or meat stew. Available at Indian Coffee House.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Alleppey better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
An array of stalls offering fresh seafood delicacies, traditional snacks, and refreshing coconut water. Must-try is the local favorite 'Sukhiyan' - deep-fried sweet pastry filled with green gram and jaggery.
Vibrant market offering various local street food options such as 'Kozhi Porichathu' - crispy fried spicy chicken and 'Puttu and Kadala' - steamed rice cakes with chickpea curry.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Alleppey, it is important to use respectful greetings when meeting others. Common greetings include 'namaste' and 'vanakkam' accompanied by a slight bow or nod.
When visiting religious sites or local communities in Alleppey, it is important to dress modestly. This means covering shoulders and knees, and removing footwear when entering temples and homes.
Respect for elders is a fundamental cultural norm in Alleppey. It is important to address older individuals with deference and avoid addressing them by their first names unless given permission.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Alleppey with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Alleppey
Ensure a smooth experience
In Alleppey, tipping at hotels, restaurants, and other service establishments is not always expected but is appreciated. A 10% tip is usually sufficient for good service.
Cash is still widely used in Alleppey, especially in smaller establishments and markets. Credit and debit cards are also accepted in many hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it's advisable to carry some cash for places that may not accept cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Alleppey.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Alleppey, with pleasant weather and ideal for houseboat cruises and exploring the backwaters.
Hot and humid weather, with fewer tourists and good for those looking for budget travel options.
Heavy rainfall, lush green landscapes, and discounted rates for accommodation and houseboat cruises, but outdoor activities may be limited.
The start of the tourist season with the landscape filled with fresh vegetation after the monsoon rains.
Alleppey at Night
Hiking in Alleppey
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hill station located about 133 km from Alleppey, Munnar offers lush green tea gardens, waterfalls, and various trekking trails that range from easy to challenging.
Located approximately 250 km from Alleppey, Kudremukh National Park features stunning landscapes and challenging hiking routes through dense forests and hills.
Situated about 40 km from Alleppey, Vazhakkulam is known for its scenic trekking paths amidst spice plantations and a mix of rural and natural beauty.
Around 130 km from Alleppey, Periyar offers a combination of wildlife viewing and trekking opportunities across its vast area of forests and hills surrounding the Periyar Lake.
Approximately 150 km from Alleppey, this is a peak in the Western Ghats known for its rich biodiversity and trekking trails, suitable for experienced hikers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Alleppey through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Alleppey by plane.
The largest international airport near Alleppey, located about 75 kilometers away in Kochi. It is known for being the first fully solar-powered airport in the world.
Located approximately 150 kilometers from Alleppey, this airport serves the capital city, Thiruvananthapuram, and connects various international and domestic flights.
Situated about 200 kilometers away in Karipur, this airport serves the Malabar region and offers several international and domestic connections.
Located near Cochin International Airport, this naval air station occasionally accommodates commercial flights and charter services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority religious group in Alleppey, Hindus constitute a significant portion of the population.
A prominent demographic in Alleppey, primarily comprising Roman Catholics and various Protestant denominations.
The Muslim community is a notable demographic group in Alleppey, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.
This includes various smaller religious communities and ethnic groups present in Alleppey.
The Soul of Alleppey
Discover the essence of Alleppey through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular traditional sport in Alleppey, known for its vibrant and competitive boat racing events during the Onam festival. Participants race in long, narrow boats called 'Vallam'.
Football is widely played in Alleppey, with many local clubs and a passionate fan base. The sport fosters community spirit and is played at various levels.
Cricket is loved by many in Alleppey, with local teams forming and competing in various tournaments. The sport is played in streets, parks, and organized matches.
Badminton is a popular indoor sport in Alleppey, with many schools and clubs promoting the game. Local tournaments are held regularly.
Kabaddi is a traditional team sport enjoyed by many in Alleppey. It involves strategy, strength, and agility, and is played in local tournaments and competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Alleppey.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Being a predominantly vegetarian-friendly destination, most restaurants and cafes offer an extensive range of plant-based dishes such as 'Avial' and 'Vegetable Stew'.
Restaurants in Alleppey are well-versed in catering to gluten-free diets, with rice-based dishes like 'Appam', 'Puttu', and 'Idiyappam' being popular and safe choices.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Alleppey with these cultural adventures.
