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Best Things To Do in Alleppey
For Travelers

There’s no Alleppey experience quite like drifting along the backwaters on a houseboat, surrounded by calm waters and lush green landscapes.

Picture yourself boarding at 11 AM and relaxing into a day of traditional meals, sunset views, and the gentle sway of the boat. Welcome drinks, local lunch, evening snacks, dinner, and a morning breakfast are all part of the package, so you’ll be well taken care of. A top-deck houseboat adds extra charm for soaking up the views.

Will the backwaters ever feel the same once you’ve stayed here? Only one way to find out…

If you want a closer look at Alleppey’s famous backwaters, grab a kayak for a sunrise or sunset tour.

Designed for beginners, this three-hour guided adventure is safe, scenic, and perfect for paddling through narrow, serene canals that bigger boats can’t access. Your guide provides all the support (and life jackets) you’ll need, so you can simply enjoy the ride.

Will you spot become a pro kayaker or find yourself at peace along the way? Only one way to see…

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For a peaceful, scenic boat tour, hop on a Shikara and set off on a leisurely three-hour cruise.

Heading toward Kainakary village through the expansive Vembanad Lake, you’ll catch glimpses of rural life, lush landscapes, and water birds. Smaller than houseboats, Shikara boats slip into hidden canals, giving you a closer look at Alleppey’s everyday magic.

Ready for a bit of adventure with a side of calm? This could be your ideal ride.

 

Escape the usual sights and explore Punnamada Island, where local life moves to a gentle rhythm of fishing, farming, and craft-making. Just a short boat ride away, it feels like stepping back in time. As you wander through village paths, locals are always happy to share a story or two.

What hidden gems will you find on this little slice of paradise?

For a truly immersive experience, take a traditional canoe tour that slips silently through the canals, letting you take in the beauty of nature and village life undisturbed.

Choose a sunrise or sunset tour for three hours, or go all-in with a full-day trip, complete with a local lunch. It’s all about soaking up the surroundings—quietly, slowly, and just like the locals do.

Who knew slowing down could reveal so much?

If you’re a fan of spice, an Alleppey-style fish curry will bring your taste buds to life!

Head to a toddy shop for lunch, or try Seashore Restaurant for dinner to savor the perfect blend of spices and coconut that makes this dish so memorable.

It’s best paired with rice or appam, Kerala-style, and don’t be shy about eating with your hands.

Will it be your new favorite curry? You might be surprised!

Skip the crowds at Alleppey Beach and catch the sunset at Marari or nearby Kattoor Beach, where soft sands and fewer people make for a relaxing end to the day.

Bring a blanket, maybe some snacks, and sit back as the sky fills with brilliant colors. It’s a peaceful escape with a view that speaks for itself.

Will you leave with a favorite sunset memory? The evening light might surprise you.

Fishing in Alleppey isn’t just an activity—it’s a way of life!

Join the locals in the morning or evening, where you’ll learn the tricks of traditional net-casting and line-fishing. Find a homestay by the backwaters, or meet locals in Punnamada for the full experience.

Who knows? You might even catch your dinner!

Kerala’s coir (coconut fiber) craft is a fascinating tradition, and Alleppey is famous for it!

Visit the larger factory in Kalavoor or small workshops in Kuttanad, where you’ll watch skilled locals transform coconut husks into ropes, mats, and more.

It’s incredible to see the process unfold—how could something as simple as a coconut husk turn into beautiful crafts? This tour will show you.

For a refreshing backwater dip, head toward the Kuttanad side in the early morning. The water is calm, the air is cool, and there’s no crowd to break the quiet.

Confident swimmers will love this unique, natural experience, especially with a local to help find the safest spot.

Ready to take the plunge? The backwaters are calling!

If you’re in Alleppey on the second Saturday of September, you’re in for a treat!

The Snake Boat Race is a full-day spectacle with massive oar-powered boats racing down the river in perfect sync. You can book tickets online, hop on a houseboat, or even stay at Hotel Ramada for a bird’s-eye view.

Can you feel the excitement? This event is pure Kerala energy!

Each December, the streets around Mullakkal Rajarajeswari Temple fill with lights, music, and endless stalls for the 10-day Mullackal Chirappu Festival. It’s a true community celebration with a vibrant flea market vibe, drawing locals and tourists alike.

The temple is central to the festivities, honoring the goddess Rajarajeswari in a mix of ritual and celebration. Could it be your new favorite holiday tradition?

If you’re looking for an authentic Kerala taste, try toddy, a mildly alcoholic drink made from coconut sap. Go to Subhash’s Toddy Shop at Chungam or ask locals for a good spot.

Try the morning “Chettu Kallu” if you’re new to toddy and pair it with a spicy side dish for the full experience. Ready to taste Kerala’s countryside culture? Just one sip, and you’ll see why it’s a local favorite.

Bring home a slice of Kerala’s tradition with a Kasavu saree, known for its gold borders and timeless elegance.

For an authentic selection, visit Kasavu Aalayam or KasavuKada, where you’ll find handwoven designs with intricate details. Look for fine quality and don’t hesitate to ask shopkeepers about the saree’s history—they’re happy to share the tradition behind this classic garment.

Which saree will you choose? The craftsmanship is irresistible.

Alleppey’s temples and churches bring history, architecture, and serenity together.

Popular sites include Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple and St. Andrew’s Basilica, each with unique architecture and customs. Dress modestly, remove your shoes, and let the peaceful vibes transport you to a different time.

What stories will these holy places tell you?

For a unique wellness experience, try Ayurveda in its birthplace. Many resorts and homestays have trusted centers offering rejuvenating massages and therapies like “Abhyanga” oil massages or “Shirodhara.”

Each treatment is designed to refresh your mind and body, helping you recharge and experience the ancient wellness practices of the region.

Ready to unwind like never before? Kerala’s ancient wisdom is waiting.

Step back in time at the Krishnapuram Palace Museum, a stunning 18th-century palace filled with murals, relics, and artifacts.

Its famous “Gajendra Moksha” mural is a highlight, and the peaceful gardens add a special touch.

Ready to uncover Kerala’s artistic heritage? This palace has stories to tell.

Escape to a backwater island stay at places like Malayalam Lake Resort, Chilanka Lake View, or Punnamada Lake Resort.

Each offers a unique vibe—rustic, modern, or cozy—perfect for unwinding with beautiful views and local meals.

Ready to disconnect and enjoy island life? This experience is all about slowing down.

Craving adventure? A speedboat ride on the backwaters is a fun, quick burst of excitement. Just ask your homestay or resort to arrange a 5- to 10-minute ride through scenic waters.

Hold on tight and feel the rush! It’s an Alleppey must-do that leaves you with a smile.

An open boat ride through Ombikaram Thodu and Palkaran Thodu gives you a front-row seat to Alleppey’s rural life. These narrow canals reveal village scenes and tranquil backwaters, with a guide to share local stories.

What will you discover around each bend? The beauty here never ends.

Wrap up your beach day with a sunset climb up the Alleppey Lighthouse, where panoramic views of the coastline and town await. For just 20 INR, it’s a perfect way to capture Kerala’s charm.

What can you spot from up high? The view makes it worth every step!

Explore the tranquil village roads of Alleppey by bicycle, where you can pedal past lush paddy fields, quaint temples, and scenic canals.

Many local operators offer guided tours that take you off the beaten path, allowing you to immerse yourself in the rural charm of Kerala.

Ready to feel the breeze and see the countryside up close? This is the perfect way to connect with the local culture.

If you’re a bird enthusiast, don’t miss Pathiramanal Island, a serene spot perfect for spotting migratory birds and enjoying the beauty of nature.

Accessible by boat, this peaceful island is ideal for early-morning or evening visits, where you can observe various species in their natural habitat.

Will you catch a glimpse of something rare? The tranquility here is simply unmatched.

Join a local artisan to learn the traditional craft of coconut leaf weaving, a skill passed down through generations in Kerala. This hands-on experience not only teaches you a unique craft but also connects you with the community.

Ready to try your hand at this art? You’ll leave with a newfound appreciation for the region’s creativity!

Dive deeper into Kerala’s culinary delights with a hands-on cooking class, where you’ll learn to whip up dishes like Kerala fish curry, appam, and vegetable thoran.

Many homestays and guesthouses offer authentic sessions led by local chefs who are eager to share their secrets.

Are you ready to impress your friends back home with your new cooking skills? The flavors of Kerala await!

Experience local life on a ferry ride to Kuttanad Village, where you’ll be treated to a two-hour journey filled with stunning views and vibrant village scenes.

For just around 30 INR, this affordable trip offers a glimpse into the heart of Kerala’s rural culture. As you glide through the backwaters, watch the daily life unfold—fishing boats, farmers at work, and lush greenery lining the banks.

Ready to soak in the local atmosphere? This ride is a must-do!