Alappuzha, also known as Alleppey, is a district located in the state of Kerala, India. It is famous for its beautiful backwaters, lush greenery, and vibrant culture. Here are some things to know about Alappuzha:
Backwaters: Alappuzha is known for its picturesque backwaters, which are a network of lagoons, lakes, and canals that run parallel to the Arabian Sea. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing boat ride along the backwaters and admire the stunning scenery.
Beaches: Alappuzha has several beautiful beaches, including Alappuzha Beach, Marari Beach, and Andhakaranazhi Beach. These beaches are popular spots for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Houseboats: Alappuzha is famous for its houseboats, which are traditional wooden boats that have been converted into luxurious floating hotels. Visitors can rent a houseboat and spend a night on the backwaters, enjoying the beautiful scenery and local cuisine.
Coir products: Alappuzha is known for its coir products, which are made from coconut fibers. Visitors can watch local artisans make coir products like mats, rugs, and baskets, and purchase souvenirs to take home.
Nehru Trophy Boat Race: Alappuzha hosts the annual Nehru Trophy Boat Race, which is a popular event that takes place on the second Saturday of August every year. Visitors can watch hundreds of traditional snake boats race along the backwaters in a colorful and exciting spectacle.
Ayurvedic treatments: Alappuzha is home to several Ayurvedic spas and wellness centers, where visitors can enjoy traditional Ayurvedic treatments like massages, herbal baths, and yoga.
Overall, Alappuzha is a beautiful and culturally rich destination that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and tradition. With its backwaters, beaches, houseboats, coir products, boat race, and Ayurvedic treatments, there’s something for everyone in Alappuzha.
Places to Visit in Alappuzha
Alappuzha, also known as Alleppey, is a popular tourist destination in Kerala, India. It is known for its beautiful backwaters, beaches, and cultural attractions. Here are some of the top places to visit in Alappuzha:
Backwaters: The backwaters of Alappuzha are a must-visit attraction. You can take a boat ride through the narrow canals and lagoons, surrounded by lush greenery and coconut trees. The backwaters are also home to a variety of birds, making it a popular spot for bird watching.
Alappuzha Beach: Alappuzha Beach is a popular spot for sunbathing and swimming. It is also a great place to watch the sunset.
Marari Beach: Marari Beach is a pristine, white sandy beach that is perfect for a relaxing day out. It is less crowded than Alappuzha Beach and has several resorts and homestays for visitors to stay in.
Krishnapuram Palace: The Krishnapuram Palace is a historic palace that was built in the 18th century. It houses a museum that showcases the rich cultural heritage of Kerala.
Pathiramanal Island: Pathiramanal Island is a small island in the middle of Vembanad Lake. It is a popular spot for bird watching and nature walks.
Ambalapuzha Sri Krishna Temple: The Ambalapuzha Sri Krishna Temple is a popular Hindu temple that is known for its traditional Kerala architecture and the delicious prasadam, sweet rice pudding that is offered to devotees.
Nehru Trophy Boat Race: The Nehru Trophy Boat Race is a popular annual event that takes place in August. It is a colorful and exciting spectacle, with hundreds of traditional snake boats racing along the backwaters.
Overall, Alappuzha is a beautiful destination with a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions. With its backwaters, beaches, historic palace, temples, and boat race, there’s something for everyone in Alappuzha.
Best Time To Visit Alappuzha
The best time to visit Alappuzha is during the winter season, from November to February. During this time, the weather is pleasant with moderate temperatures, making it ideal for exploring the backwaters, beaches, and other outdoor attractions. The humidity and rainfall are also relatively low during this period.
The monsoon season, from June to September, is also a good time to visit Alappuzha if you enjoy the rain and lush greenery. The backwaters are full, and the waterfalls are at their best during this time. However, it can be challenging to explore outdoor attractions during heavy rainfall, and some activities may be restricted.
The summer season, from March to May, can be quite hot and humid, with temperatures reaching up to 35 degrees Celsius. However, it is still possible to visit Alappuzha during this time, and many indoor attractions, such as temples and museums, can be explored.
Overall, the best time to visit Alappuzha is during the winter season, from November to February, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities.
Things to Do in Alappuzha
Alappuzha, also known as Alleppey, is a beautiful destination in Kerala, India, known for its backwaters, beaches, and cultural attractions. Here are some of the top things to do in Alappuzha:
Take a Backwater Cruise: A backwater cruise is a must-do activity in Alappuzha. You can hire a houseboat or a traditional canoe and explore the narrow canals, lagoons, and lakes, surrounded by lush greenery and coconut trees. It is also an excellent opportunity to see the local lifestyle, watch the sunrise or sunset, and enjoy traditional Kerala cuisine.
Relax on the Beaches: Alappuzha has several beautiful beaches, including Alappuzha Beach and Marari Beach, which are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and relaxing. The beaches are also a great place to watch the sunset.
Visit the Krishnapuram Palace: The Krishnapuram Palace is a beautiful palace built in the 18th century. It houses a museum that showcases the rich cultural heritage of Kerala, including traditional art, architecture, and artifacts.
Explore Pathiramanal Island: Pathiramanal Island is a small island in the middle of Vembanad Lake. It is a popular spot for bird watching, nature walks, and boat rides.
Attend the Nehru Trophy Boat Race: The Nehru Trophy Boat Race is a popular annual event that takes place in August. It is a colorful and exciting spectacle, with hundreds of traditional snake boats racing along the backwaters.
Visit the Ambalapuzha Sri Krishna Temple: The Ambalapuzha Sri Krishna Temple is a popular Hindu temple that is known for its traditional Kerala architecture and the delicious prasadam, sweet rice pudding that is offered to devotees.
Enjoy a Ayurvedic Massage: Alappuzha is known for its Ayurvedic massages and therapies, which are a great way to relax and rejuvenate. You can visit one of the many Ayurvedic spas and wellness centers in the city and indulge in a variety of treatments, including massages, facials, and yoga.
Overall, Alappuzha has a lot to offer to tourists, from backwaters to beaches, cultural attractions, and wellness therapies. It is an ideal destination for those who want to experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of Kerala.
How to get around in Alappuzha
Here are some ways to get around in Alappuzha:
Houseboats: One of the most popular ways to get around Alappuzha is by houseboat. You can hire a houseboat or a traditional canoe and explore the backwaters, canals, and lakes. Houseboats usually come with a captain, a cook, and a helper, and they offer an excellent way to experience the local lifestyle, watch the sunset, and enjoy traditional Kerala cuisine.
Auto-rickshaws and Taxis: Auto-rickshaws and taxis are available in Alappuzha and are a convenient way to get around the city. You can negotiate the fares before getting into the vehicle or opt for metered taxis.
Bicycles: Bicycles are a popular mode of transportation in Alappuzha and are available for rent at many locations throughout the city. Cycling is a great way to explore the city and its surroundings at your own pace.
Motorbikes and Scooters: Motorbikes and scooters are also available for rent in Alappuzha. They offer a convenient and flexible way to explore the city and its surroundings.
Public Transport: Public transport in Alappuzha includes buses and ferries. The buses connect the city with nearby towns and villages, while the ferries are an excellent way to explore the backwaters and nearby islands.
Overall, there are several options to get around in Alappuzha, depending on your preferences and budget. The houseboats are a unique and popular way to experience the backwaters, while bicycles and motorbikes offer a more independent and adventurous way to explore the city and its surroundings.
where to eat in Alappuzha
Alappuzha is famous for its delicious seafood and traditional Kerala cuisine. Here are some of the best places to eat in Alappuzha:
Thaff Delicacy: Thaff Delicacy is a popular restaurant in Alappuzha known for its seafood dishes. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, including fish fry, prawn curry, and crab roast.
Cassia Restaurant: Cassia Restaurant is a multi-cuisine restaurant that offers a variety of dishes, including Chinese, Indian, and Continental. The restaurant is known for its seafood and has a great ambience.
Halais Restaurant: Halais Restaurant is a popular chain of restaurants in Kerala that serves traditional Kerala cuisine. The restaurant is known for its biryanis, seafood, and vegetarian dishes.
Vembanad Restaurant: Vembanad Restaurant is located in the Kumarakom Lake Resort and is known for its Kerala cuisine. The restaurant offers a beautiful view of the backwaters and is a great place to enjoy a traditional Kerala meal.
Mushroom Restaurant: Mushroom Restaurant is a popular vegetarian restaurant in Alappuzha. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, including North Indian, South Indian, and Chinese.
Dreamers Cafe: Dreamers Cafe is a cozy cafe located in the heart of Alappuzha. The cafe offers a variety of snacks, sandwiches, and desserts, and is a great place to relax and unwind.
Overall, Alappuzha has a variety of dining options to suit all tastes and budgets, from seafood to vegetarian, traditional Kerala cuisine to international cuisine, and fine dining to street food.
famous street stalls in Alappuzha
Alappuzha has a vibrant street food culture, and there are many street stalls and food carts that offer delicious and affordable snacks. Here are some famous street stalls in Alappuzha:
Kream Korner: Kream Korner is a popular street food stall in Alappuzha that is known for its ice cream rolls. The ice cream rolls are made by mixing the ice cream base with fruits, nuts, and chocolate, and rolling it on a frozen plate. The stall also offers a variety of other desserts, including waffles and milkshakes.
Shri Krishna Chaat House: Shri Krishna Chaat House is a popular street food stall that offers a variety of chaat dishes, including samosas, bhel puri, and pani puri. The stall is known for its spicy and flavorful chaat.
Tea Pot: Tea Pot is a popular street stall that serves a variety of tea, including masala chai, ginger tea, and cardamom tea. The stall also offers snacks, including samosas and vada pav.
Saffron Restaurant: Saffron Restaurant is a street food stall that serves a variety of North Indian dishes, including chole bhature, parathas, and tandoori chicken. The stall is known for its delicious and spicy food.
Alakapuri Restaurant: Alakapuri Restaurant is a popular street food stall that serves a variety of vegetarian dishes, including dosas, idlis, and vadas. The stall is known for its fresh and flavorful food.
Overall, Alappuzha has many street food stalls that offer delicious and affordable snacks. Whether you are in the mood for chaat, tea, ice cream rolls, or North Indian dishes, you are sure to find something that suits your taste buds.
where to stay in Alappuzha
luxury accomodation
Alappuzha is known for its beautiful backwaters, beaches, and traditional Kerala architecture, and there are many luxury accommodations that offer stunning views and top-notch amenities. Here are some of the best luxury accommodations in Alappuzha:
Taj Kumarakom Resort and Spa: Taj Kumarakom Resort and Spa is a 5-star luxury resort located on the banks of the Vembanad Lake. The resort offers luxurious rooms and villas with stunning views of the lake, a spa, a swimming pool, and multiple restaurants that serve traditional Kerala cuisine.
Lake Palace Resort: Lake Palace Resort is a 4-star luxury resort located on the banks of the Vembanad Lake. The resort offers luxurious rooms and villas with views of the lake, a spa, a swimming pool, and multiple restaurants that serve traditional Kerala cuisine.
Lemon Tree Vembanad Lake Resort: Lemon Tree Vembanad Lake Resort is a 4-star luxury resort located on the banks of the Vembanad Lake. The resort offers luxurious rooms and villas with views of the lake, a spa, a swimming pool, and a restaurant that serves a variety of Indian and international cuisine.
Ramada Alappuzha: Ramada Alappuzha is a 4-star luxury hotel located in the heart of Alappuzha. The hotel offers luxurious rooms with modern amenities, a swimming pool, a fitness center, and multiple restaurants that serve Indian and international cuisine.
Punnamada Resort: Punnamada Resort is a 4-star luxury resort located on the banks of the Punnamada Lake. The resort offers luxurious rooms and villas with views of the lake, a spa, a swimming pool, and multiple restaurants that serve traditional Kerala cuisine.
Overall, Alappuzha has many luxury accommodations that offer stunning views and top-notch amenities, whether you are looking for a resort on the backwaters or a hotel in the heart of the city.
where to stay in Alappuzha
budget accomodation
Alappuzha, also known as Alleppey, offers a range of budget accommodation options for travelers. Here are some of the best budget accommodation options in Alappuzha:
Zostel Alleppey: Zostel Alleppey is a budget-friendly hostel located in the heart of Alappuzha. The hostel offers shared dormitories and private rooms, a common kitchen, a rooftop terrace, and a lounge area.
Cosy Regency: Cosy Regency is a budget hotel located in the heart of Alappuzha. The hotel offers air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
Sreelakshmi Residency: Sreelakshmi Residency is a budget hotel located near Alappuzha Beach. The hotel offers air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
Gokulam Homestay: Gokulam Homestay is a budget-friendly homestay located near the backwaters of Alappuzha. The homestay offers private rooms with shared bathrooms, a common kitchen, and a garden.
Venice Castle: Venice Castle is a budget-friendly hotel located near the backwaters of Alappuzha. The hotel offers air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, a restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
Overall, Alappuzha offers a range of budget accommodation options for travelers, from hostels and homestays to budget hotels. These accommodations provide comfortable and affordable lodging options for travelers who want to explore the backwaters and beaches of Alappuzha without breaking the bank.
Travel Tips Alappuzha
Here are some travel tips for visiting Alappuzha:
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Alappuzha is from November to February, when the weather is cool and dry.
Backwater tours: One of the must-do activities in Alappuzha is a backwater tour. You can either rent a houseboat or take a canoe ride to explore the scenic backwaters.
Beaches: Alappuzha is also known for its beaches, including Alappuzha Beach and Marari Beach. Make sure to visit these beaches to enjoy the sun, sand, and sea.
Local cuisine: Alappuzha is famous for its seafood, and you should definitely try some of the local delicacies like fish curry and prawn fry. You can find these dishes at local restaurants and street stalls.
Shopping: Alappuzha is known for its coir products, handicrafts, and spices. Make sure to visit the local markets to buy some souvenirs to take back home.
Transportation: Alappuzha is well connected by road, rail, and waterways. You can rent a car or take a taxi to explore the city, or take a local bus or auto-rickshaw to get around.
Respect local customs: Alappuzha is a conservative place, and it is important to respect local customs and dress modestly while visiting temples and other religious sites.
Mosquitoes: Alappuzha is a coastal area and can be humid, so make sure to carry mosquito repellent to protect yourself from mosquito bites.
Accommodation: Alappuzha offers a range of accommodation options, including luxury resorts, budget hotels, homestays, and houseboats. Make sure to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak season.
By following these travel tips, you can make the most of your trip to Alappuzha and enjoy all that this beautiful place has to offer.