Alappuzha is a breezy beach town in Kerala’s hub of backwaters. Apart from a vast network of narrow waterways, more than a thousand houseboats, and a thriving coir industry, the landscape here is dotted with paddies full of greens, toddy shops, and rice barges. With all this, you’d be hard-pressed to find that Alleppey (preferred by most travellers) is one of Kerala’s most fascinating and rejuvenating experiences. From village life along the banks to golden beaches lined with fishing boats, we have compiled a travel guide to Alappuzha for you. Read–bookmark–explore, and thank us later. 

Best time to visit Alappuzha (Alleppey)

First things first, let’s talk about the best time to visit Alappuzha. Between October and February, the temperature remains pleasant for exploration. Monsoon lovers can consider visiting the town in June when it rains moderately. In the summer months, the mercury rises to 40 degrees. 

Must-see attractions in Alappuzha (Alleppey)

RKK Memorial Museum

This grand building, with its front columns made of Greco-Roman columns, contains a private collection of crystal, porcelain, antiques, artworks, and (sadly) ivory. 

Timing: 9 am - 5 pm (Closed on Mondays)

Alappuzha Beach (Alleppey)

The star of the town, Alappuzha Beach, is known for its surreal sunsets. Swimming is prohibited because of strong currents. And right by the beach is our happening backpacker’s hostel–Zostel Alleppey. 

A surreal sunset at Alleppey Beach. 

Kidangamparamba Temple 

Located centrally, this major temple has a towering, rainbow-coloured gopuram made in the classical Tamil Nadu style. 

Timing: 5-11:30 am & 5-8 pm

Alappuzha Lighthouse (Alleppey)

The giant candy-like-looking tower is Alleppey Lighthouse, located a short walk from the main beach. The spiral staircase takes you to the top for a 360-degree view of lush green Alleppey. 

Timing: 9-11:45 am & 2-5:30 pm (Closed on Mondays)

International Coir Museum

The Coir industry has revolutionized Alleppey, and this museum showcases just that. Visit to understand the traditional processes and development of the coir industry. 

Timing: 9 am-5:30 pm

Punnapra Beach

Calmer and quieter than the main beach, Punnapara Beach is famous for its golden stretch and tranquil vibes. 

Out and about Alappuzha (Alleppey)

Pathiramanal Island 

Once a prized possession of a local family is now among the top attractions in Alappuzha. It’s full of green vegetation and wild flora and fauna. 

Timing: 6 am-6 pm

Kuttanad

Adorned by lush rice paddies, Kuttanad is often deemed the rice bowl of Kerala. To soak in the traditional countryside lifestyle of god’s own country, take a day trip to this picturesque village. 

Marari Beach

One of the main beaches around Alleppey for fishing, Marari Beach is one of the great delights of the Malabar Coast. In August, you can experience snake boat races across the waters.

St. Mary’s Forane Church

One of the oldest churches in India, St. Mary’s Forane Church boasts brilliant architecture, elaborate rock inscriptions, and ancient artefacts, making it one of the finest spots around Alleppey town. 

Timing: 6 am-6 pm

Krishnapuram Palace

Featuring a gabled roof, narrow corridors, and dormer windows, Krishnapuram Palace was built for a Travancore ruler and is now turned into a museum. 

Vembanad Lake

With titles like longest lake in the country and largest lake in Kerala under its belt, Vembanad Lake is a gem for nature lovers. Locally it is known as Vembanad Kol or Vembanad Kayal.

A group of locals practising for the snake boat race tournament at Vembanad Lake. 

Thaickal Beach 

Located north of Alleppey, this white-sand beach is famous for its surreal sunsets and calming vibes. 

Thottapally Beach

A quiet escape around Alappuzha in Kerala, Thottapally Beach is made famous by the celebrated novel and movie “Chemmeen.” A fishing harbour attracts fishermen, and a soul-soothing experience attracts travellers. 

Things to do in Alappuzha (Alleppey)

Snake Boat Race in Alleppey

One of the most exciting events in Kerala, the Nehru Trophy Boat Race is an annual showcase of 12 boat races. In these races, 9 teams of 100 rowers pilot these graceful boats in a hypnotic rhythm to the sounds of chanted rowing songs. The yearly tournament begins in August/September. You can get your tickets from the DTPC Office. 

Kayaking in Alleppey

With lots of waterways, rivers, and lakes, Alappuzha is perfect for kayaking. Locals also enjoy it, as there are no roads to many villages. Win, win for everyone! 

Shikara ride in Alleppey

Smaller than houseboats in Alleppey, shikhara boats are usually decorated with wood and bamboo, adding an old rustic charm to them. A ride through Alappuzha’s intricate waterways is one of the most rejuvenating experiences. 

Sailing through the backwaters of Alleppey. 

Ayurveda massage 

There are many spa & massage facilities in Alappuzha offering Ayurveda massages that help you rejuvenate with herbal oils and steam baths. 

Our favourite restaurants in Alappuzha (Alleppey)

Chakara

Housed in a heritage-style Raheem Residency from the 1860s, Chakara serves Keralan and European cuisine, specialising in local seafood. Try Alleppey fish curry and paneer-cashew curry. 

Cafe Katamaran

This sea-facing is loved by both locals and travellers for its traveller-style menu. Momo, grilled sandwiches, pasta, curries, and grilled garlic-butter fish are must-try here.

Harbour Restaurant

With a menu full of Indian, Chinese, and Continental dishes (including Keralan-style seafood), Harbour Restaurant is one of the casual and pocket-friendly restaurants in Alleppey. 

Royale Chimney

Biryanis, fish curry, and veg & fish thalis—anything you order here is likely to make you lick your fingers and plates. 

Halais

Chicken and mutton biryanis are the most loved here, but Arabian and Yemeni dishes are also exquisite. 

Dreamers

From Tibetan momos to Thai curries and seafood to pasta & pizzas, this rustic and friendly cafe stands across Alleppey Beach. 

Cochin Majlis

This is where Indian, Chinese, and Arabic flavours collide. Try kalimirchi chicken, thali (veg, fish, or chicken), local seafood, noodles, shawarma, or biryanis.

Kream Korner Art Cafe

Whether you want to treat yourself to a light breakfast, Indian lunch, or a Chinese dinner, you have got to visit the most colourful spot in the town. 

Cafe Paradiso

Your late-night cravings are sorted with this cheerful canal-side cafe. Your choices are espresso, cold drinks, lassis, and light breakfasts. They also organize kayaking trips. 

Thaff

From South Indian to North, and even Chinese, you can gobble anything right in the heart of Alleppey town. Roast spit-chicken, biryanis, and brain-freezing ice-cream shakes are must-try here. 

Bismi Hypermarket

To end your meal with a sweet and refreshing paan. 

A little something for Zostel Alleppey 

Inviting you for a hip and happening beach escape, Zostel Alleppey is located right on the main beach. Surrounded by swaying palm trees, our hostel has everything you need for a short trip or a long workation. Look forward to exploring the backwaters, soothing village walks, and surreal sunsets by the beach. And when you’re back at the hostel, a lively evening full of games will be waiting for you. Check out the hostel here. 

Travellers like you chilling at Zostel Alleppey. 

A look inside Zostel Alleppey. 

Finally, we have reached the end of this travel guide to Alappuzha. Read it, bookmark it, but don’t forget to live it. Now.