Alleppey – The Venice of the East

Situated in a labyrinth of backwater channels, with its lush green paddy fields, clear lagoons, flocks of ducks and waddling under the soft sun and shores bustling with daily business activities, Alleppey offers a delightful setting blessed by nature. A small town with just a single canal, Alleppey has today become a global attraction for its picturesque backwaters. Just board a houseboat (locally called kettuvallam) and cruise down the backwaters for some peaceful moments and savour delectable Kerala cuisine.

Visit the town in August – September to see the spectacular water regatta, the snake boat races. Allpepey is also famous for its beaches, marine products and coir industry and a must visit on every tourist’s itinerary. Some of the famous attractions of Alleppey have been mentioned below.

What to See in Alleppey

Krishnapuram Palace : A must visit place in Alleppey, Krishnapuram Palace was built in the 18th century during the reign of the Travancore King, Marthanda Varma. Situated at a distance of 47 km from Alleppey, the palace houses the famous mural painting, Gajendra Moksham.

Churches and Temples : The whole Alleppey region is strewn with places of worship and home to a number of churches and temples. Close to Alleppey the oldest church in Kerala is situated, known as St. Mary’s Church. Another church lies at Arthunkal, just 14 kms away from Alleppey. St. Sebastian’s Church is another famous church, which was set up by the Portuguese missionaries in 1851. Situated 14 km from Alleppey, the Sreekrishna temple is worth a visit. Sreekrishna temple is known for its classic architecture and draws large number of tourists.

Kuttanad : Also called the rice bowl of Kerala, Kuttanad is a must visit place and located close to Alleppey. Here, you can take a stroll along the lush green paddy fields.

What to Do in Alleppey

Boat Cruising : Boat ride in the alluring backwaters is the best way to experience Alleppey. While cruising along the Punnamada Lake, you can get a slice of real Kerala lifestyle. Besides, the views of villages along the banks, green paddy fields and coconut groves will surely captivate your imagination. For tourists there are a wide range of cruising itinerary to choose from.

Beach Holiday : Following the backwaters trip in houseboat, you can have a nice picnic at the Alleppey beach. Bestowed with a vast expanse of the Arabian sea in the west and numerous lagoons all around, the Alleppey beach is definitely worth a visit. The 140 year old pier which extends over the sea and an old lighthouse are special attractions of Alleppey beach.

Important Tips for Travellers

- Cochin International Airport is 64 km from Alleppey, which is well-connected by both national and international flights.

- Alleppey railway station is connected by trains from all parts of the country. The town is also well connected by road to rest of the country.

- Alleppey is connected by boat service from Cochin, Kottayam and Quilon.

- Kayaloram Heritage Lake Resort and Punnamada Resorts Pvt Ltd are the famous places to stay in Alleppey.

- Though August to March is the ideal time to visit Kerala, but the monsoon is the best time if you are looking for ayurvedic treatment.

- Cottons are the best cloth, don’t forget to carry sunglasses. Do carry along a pair of binoculars as the town plays host to many interesting bird species.

-If you plan your day to watch the famous boat race on the Vembanand lake, it is advised to carry along an umbrella.