Top places to visit

Top Places to Visit

Alleppey is a picture-perfect blend of water, culture, and nature, offering a rich mix of backwaters, beaches, temples, heritage, and village life. From cruising on tranquil lakes to exploring ancient churches and relaxing on sun-drenched shores, Alleppey invites you to slow down and soak it all in.

Here’s a curated list of the top attractions in Alleppey you shouldn’t miss:

 1. Vembanad Lake & Houseboat Cruises

 Across Alleppey backwaters
 Open all day | Best: Morning or evening

 Why Visit?

• India’s longest lake and Kerala’s backwater heart
• Glide on a traditional kettuvallam (houseboat) through canals, paddy fields, and villages
• Enjoy fresh Kerala meals, sunset views, and serene vibes

 Tip: Choose overnight houseboat stays for the full experience.

 2. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary (Day Trip)

 ~35 km from Alleppey
 6:30 AM – 5:00 PM
 Entry: ₹50

 Why Visit?

• Peaceful sanctuary along the backwaters
• Spot migratory birds like Siberian cranes, herons, egrets, and kingfishers
• Great for early morning walks and nature photography

 Tip: Take a guided birdwatching tour or a canoe ride nearby.

 3. Alappuzha Beach & Lighthouse

 2 km from town center
 Sunrise to Sunset | Lighthouse: 3:00–5:00 PM (closed Mondays)

 Why Visit?

• Relax on a sandy beach with gentle waves and stunning sunsets
• Visit the Alleppey Lighthouse (built in 1862) for panoramic coastal views
• Enjoy camel rides, ice cream stalls, and local snacks

 Tip: Great spot for an evening walk or family outing.

 4. Pathiramanal Island

 On Vembanad Lake | Accessible by boat
 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM

 Why Visit?

• A small, lush island rich in birdlife and tranquility
• Ideal for a short boat trip and picnic
• Surrounded by mangroves and scenic views

 Tip: Combine with your houseboat or canoe ride—it’s a peaceful break from the water journey.

 5. St. Mary’s Forane Church, Champakulam

 ~15 km from Alleppey
 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM

 Why Visit?

• One of the oldest Christian churches in Kerala, believed to date back to 427 AD
• Rich in Syrian Christian heritage, murals, and history
• Quiet, serene, and beautifully preserved

 Tip: Visit during Champakulam Boat Race (June–July) for cultural immersion.

 6. Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple

 ~15 km south of Alleppey
 4:30 AM – 12:00 PM & 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM

 Why Visit?

• Ancient temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, famous for its palpayasam (milk pudding)
• Renowned for Kerala temple architecture and spiritual aura
• Hosts various festivals like Ambalapuzha Arattu

 Tip: Don’t miss tasting the temple’s legendary payasam.

 7. Revi Karunakaran Memorial Museum

 Alappuzha Town
 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
 Entry: ₹100

 Why Visit?

• Private museum showcasing art, crystals, ivory, and Kerala’s coir history
• Dedicated to Revi Karunakaran, pioneer of the coir industry
• Impressive collection of antiques and global artifacts

 Tip: A great cultural stop for art and history enthusiasts.

 8. Kuttanad – The Rice Bowl of Kerala

 Surrounding Alleppey backwaters

 Why Visit?

• Unique region where farming is done below sea level
• Explore green paddy fields, toddy shops, canal-side villages, and coconut farms
• Best explored on a village tour, canoe ride, or cycling trip

 Tip: Hire a local guide to visit homes, farms, and coir weaving units.

 9. Nehru Trophy Boat Race Venue (Punnamada Lake)

 ~4 km from town
 Main event: August (2nd Saturday)

 Why Visit?

• Site of the famous Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race
• Watch local rowers race massive Chundan Vallams (snake boats) during the season
• Even off-season, you can visit the lake and see practice sessions or hire a local boat

 Tip: Book tickets or boat-viewing packages in advance for race day.

 10. Marari Beach

 ~15 km from Alleppey
 All day

 Why Visit?

• Clean, quiet, and less crowded than Alappuzha Beach
• Perfect for a romantic walk, sunset view, or lazy afternoon
• Home to eco-resorts, yoga retreats, and seafood cafés

 Tip: A great place to stay if you want a beach + backwater combo vacation.

 Quick Overview Table

Alleppey is more than just houseboats—it’s a living postcard of water, life, and culture. Whether you’re relaxing on a beach, watching a boat race, or sipping coconut water on a canoe, every moment here feels timeless and tranquil.

Alleppey – Where every canal is a path to discovery, and every ripple tells a story.