Alleppey, officially Alappuzha, is called the "Venice of the East" for its web of canals and lakes. Most visitors know it for houseboats, but the town and surrounding backwaters offer much more – beaches, canoe trips, village life and one of India's most exciting boat races.
Getting There
- From Kochi: about 55–60 km, 1.5–2 hours.
- From Thekkady or Munnar: about 4–5 hours.
- By train: Alappuzha station is on the coastal line.
Backwater Experiences
Houseboat Cruise
The classic overnight or day cruise on Punnamada and Vembanad lakes.
Shikara Ride
Small covered boats that can enter narrow canals where houseboats cannot go. Ideal for 1–3 hours, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Kayak or Canoe Trip
Paddle quietly through the narrowest canals, past homes, schools and churches on the water – one of the most authentic ways to see backwater life.
Public Ferry
Government ferries between Alleppey and Kottayam offer a cheap, local way to cruise the backwaters.
Beaches
- Alleppey Beach: with a 150-year-old pier and lighthouse; good for sunset.
- Marari Beach: about 11 km north, quiet and lined with resorts and fishing villages.
Kuttanad – The Rice Bowl of Kerala
Kuttanad is one of the few places in the world where farming is done below sea level. Paddy fields are protected by dykes, with canals running higher than the fields. Village walks and cycle tours show this unique landscape.
Festivals
Nehru Trophy Boat Race
Held on Punnamada Lake, usually in August, featuring long snake boats (chundan vallams) rowed by over 100 oarsmen. Book tickets early for good viewing spots.
Other boat races
Several traditional snake-boat races take place across the backwaters during the monsoon and Onam season.
Temples and Heritage
- Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple: famous for its sweet palpayasam.
- Mullakkal Rajarajeswari Temple in town.
- Krishnapuram Palace: an 18th-century palace with a large mural.
- St Andrew's Basilica, Arthunkal: a historic church by the sea.
Food to Try
- Karimeen (pearl spot) fry or pollichathu
- Duck roast and duck curry
- Toddy shop meals with kappa (tapioca) and fish curry
- Appam with stew
- Kerala meals on a banana leaf
Where to Stay
- Houseboat: for one night.
- Lake resorts and homestays: in villages along the backwaters for a quieter stay.
- Marari Beach resorts: to combine beach and backwaters.
Suggested 2-Day Plan
- Day 1: Board a houseboat at noon; cruise and overnight on the lake.
- Day 2: Early kayak trip through narrow canals; afternoon at Marari Beach; sunset at Alleppey pier.
Tips
- Agree shikara rates per hour before boarding.
- Carry mosquito repellent.
- Avoid single-use plastic on the water.
- Check local festival dates when planning.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I do in Alleppey other than a houseboat?
Shikara and kayak rides, Marari and Alleppey beaches, Kuttanad village walks, temples and boat races.
When is the Nehru Trophy Boat Race held?
Usually in August on Punnamada Lake. Check annual dates.
Is a shikara ride better than a houseboat?
A shikara reaches narrow canals and suits short trips; a houseboat is best for an overnight experience.
How far is Alleppey from Kochi?
About 55–60 km, around 1.5–2 hours.
Is Marari Beach worth visiting?
Yes, it is a quiet beach close to Alleppey, great for relaxing.
Plan Your Trip with On Travel
Our Kerala packages include Alleppey houseboats, shikara and kayak experiences and Marari Beach stays.
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Plan Your Trip with On Travel
Ready to go? These itineraries cover the places in this guide and can be customised to your dates and budget:
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- Kerala Escape with Alleppey Houseboat – 4 Nights / 5 Days
- Serene Kerala – Munnar & Alleppey, 4 Nights / 5 Days
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Related reading: Vagamon Travel Guide · Wayanad Travel Guide · Kochi (Cochin) Travel Guide
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