Top 26 Things to Do in Alleppey, India – Definitive Guide

Discover the allure of Alleppey Beach, a pristine coastline with a historic pier jutting into the sea. Enjoy breathtaking sunset views while the ghostly remains of the 137-year-old Alappuzha Sea Bridge tell stories of times past. Nearby, treat yourself to a soothing Ayurvedic massage or explore idyllic "Pozhi," where sea and freshwater meet. Just minutes away is the famous Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, a birdwatcher's paradise. Your trip to India is not complete without experiencing this coastal gem.

The Sree Krishna Swamy Temple in Ambalapuzha is a gem for lovers of spirituality and architecture. The temple is famous for its heavenly "Ambalapuzha Palpayasam", a delicious sweet milk porridge offered to the deity. The temple grounds are quiet and peaceful, ideal for introspection and silence. Just 14 km away is the famous Alappuzha Lighthouse, which offers a magnificent view of the Alleppey coastline. Don't miss the phenomenal "Champakulam Moolam Boat Race" held nearby during the Malayalam month of Mithunam.

Discover the hidden treasures of India on a cruise through the breathtaking backwaters of Alleppey. A houseboat ride along the shimmering waterways, surrounded by lush greenery, is an incomparable experience. Encounter tiny villages, historic churches and a variety of exotic birds! Enjoy delicious local cuisine cooked on board and served on fresh banana leaves. Just an hour away is the famous Marari Beach, a tranquil paradise known for its crystal clear waters and soft golden sand. Alleppey, a true gem full of natural splendor and cultural charms.

Solicit the tranquility of the legendary Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple, an intricate realm of over 30,000 mesmerizing serpent images. Nestled in a forest clearing, the seat of the snake god Nagaraja guarantees a captivating spiritual journey. Immerse yourself in magical rituals such as the "Uruli Kamizhthal" - a unique fertility ritual. A few kilometers away you can marvel at the Haripad Subrahmanya Swamy Temple, one of the oldest shrines in Kerala dedicated to Lord Subrahmanya.

Krishnapuram Palace is a captivating place to learn about the rich history of Kerala. Walking through this 18th century palace, you will see intricate murals and beautifully designed gabled roofs. The palace, surrounded by a manicured garden, also houses a museum with ancient artifacts. Don't miss the 49 square meter Gajendra Moksham mural, the largest in Kerala! Nearby is the enchanting Kayamkulam Lake, where boat rides are available - perfect for unwinding after enjoying the splendor of the palace.

Experience the magic of Alleppey Boathouse, a floating paradise in the backwaters of Kerala. It's not just a boat ride, but a complete lifestyle experience. Enjoy fresh seafood, rides through rural villages, gorgeous views of rice paddies and the relaxing sound of water lapping against the boat. Stay overnight and enjoy spectacular views of the starry sky. Nearby is the 137-year-old St. Mary's Forane Church, which you must visit for its architectural beauty. Local tip: Watch the mesmerizing sunset from the deck!

Alleppey Lighthouse is a captivating lighthouse of history, with enchanting stories of sailors, signaling good luck and safety. The unparalleled panoramic view of the Alleppey coastline will take your breath away. Climbing the spiral staircase is like a trip back in time. Afterwards, you can end your day at the nearby Palmgrove Lake Resort with an authentic meal! And yes, Vijay Beach Park is also a nearby spot that offers serene views and activities.

Discover a birdwatcher's paradise at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, a must-visit in Alleppey. Here you can observe a variety of exotic bird species nesting and fluttering in their natural habitat. Spot rare migratory birds such as Siberian cranes or local favorites like kingfishers and wood beetles. Located on the shores of Lake Vembanad, it is a quiet oasis of respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. Just ten minutes away, you can take a boat ride to marvel at the rare fauna of Pathiramanal Island. This combination is a nature lover's dream!

Explore the unique history of Alleppey's coir industry at the International Coir Museum! From fascinating exhibits showing the early artisanal techniques of coir fiber production to advanced automated machinery, you'll get a fascinating insight. Don't miss the world's first motorized coir loom! Also enjoy the captivating coconut sculpture gallery. Nearby, you can continue your cultural journey with a visit to the Revi Karuna Karan Memorial Museum - a treasure trove of art and artifacts.

Venture into the tranquil majesty of Alleppey Boat Houses, which offer an unparalleled experience of the beautiful backwaters of Kerala. This is not just a boat ride, but a floating retreat with exceptional views and the opportunity to observe daily life along the riverbanks. Sample traditional Kerala cuisine served on board and drink fresh coconut water while relaxing on the deck. Nearby is Marari Beach, a wonderfully tranquil spot perfect for a sunset stroll.

Explore the enchanting waters of Alleppey on the "Oscar Cruise", a prime choice for backwater cruising enthusiasts. This delightful experience takes you along the tranquil lagoons of Alleppey, past lush rice fields and ancient fishing villages. Savor the delicious cuisine of Kerala on board and experience the unspoiled beauty of local life.

Dangle your senses in the divine serenity of the "Great Backwaters" in Alleppey. An immaculate blend of nature's splendor, these backwaters will mesmerize you with their tranquil charm as you cruise in the iconic houseboats. You will witness an extraordinary combination of large lagoons, freshwater rivers and canals that are interconnected. For an authentic experience, try Alleppey's specialty - pearl fish. Nearby is Punnamada Lake, famous for its annual snake boat race - a sight you will never forget.

The palm-fringed, tranquil Alleppey backwaters are India's answer to Venice. As you float in a "kettuvallam" (a traditional houseboat), witness local waterfront life. See villagers fishing, rice paddies and children waving as you cruise by. Don't miss the brilliant sunset that bathes the lagoons in a heavenly light! Nearby is Marari Beach, known for its golden sand and peaceful setting.

Immerse yourself in the spiritual aura of Alleppey with the distinctive Mullakkal Rajarajeswari Temple. Reflecting the tranquility of divine hymns, this unique "open roof" is an example of traditional Kerala architecture and a rare sight. Experience the nine-day Mullakkal Chirappu Festival, a grand carnival of rituals and lively processions that attracts devotees and tourists alike. Pro-tip: Just a short walk away is bustling Mullakkal Street, a haven for exotic spices, tantalizing street food, and handmade souvenirs to round out your divine getaway.

Visiting the Kalloorkad St. Mary's Basilica is like opening a historical treasure chest. Built in 427 AD, this majestic basilica is a fusion of Kerala and Portuguese architectural styles - a feast for the eyes of art lovers! Be enchanted by the peace and serenity of the interiors. Don't miss the intricate carvings on the altars and pulpit. Just 15 km away is the ancient Mannarasala Temple, nestled in a forest and revered for its legend of snake worship.

Punnamada Lake in Alleppey offers an unforgettable experience where the beauty of Kerala is imprinted in your heart. This vast, tranquil lake with its lush greenery promises mesmerizing views of sunrise and sunset. Paddle across the lagoon on a traditional houseboat, enjoy authentic Kerala cuisine or watch the annual snake boat race, an exciting spectacle! Just around the corner, you can visit the idyllic Pathiramanal Island or the historic Krishnapuram Palace to further enhance your Alleppey visit.

The visit of "Nadodi Kayaking in Alleppey" offers an authentic backwater experience! You will paddle through the quiet canals, admire the life in the villages and experience the green rice fields. You will discover places rarely seen by normal tourists. Head out early in the morning and evening to escape the heat, and don't forget to spot unique bird species. Just a stone's throw away is the famous Alleppey beach, known for its pier that is over 150 years old.

The Alleppey boat dock is a must-see, known for its picturesque seascape! This is where the traditional houseboats called "Kettuvallams" dock and come to life. Enjoy the intimate view of local fishermen at work. Don't miss the sunset - a magical spectacle of brilliant colors disappearing into the water.

Thottappally beach is a hidden gem in Alleppey with enchanting beauty and tranquil surroundings. Its less crowded atmosphere sets it apart from other beaches and makes it a very personal experience. Not only can you relax here, but you can also explore the nearby Thottapally Spillway where the sweet waters of the lake mingle with the sea. Don't miss the vibrant color palette at sunset. To tantalize your palate, sample the local seafood specialties at the stalls along the shore. Just 20 minutes away is the Ambalappuzha Krishna Temple, famous for its divine dessert "Palpayasam".

Experience serenity in the houseboats of Alleppey, the hallmark of "Waves and Dales". Glide through the tranquil backwaters, immersed in a verdant tropical panorama, while gaining a unique insight into the Kuttanadan culture. Enjoy delicious Kerala cuisine, an enchanting sunset or a dip in the refreshing waters - experience life on the edge of the wilderness. Visit the nearby Krishnapuram Palace, a perfect insight into Kerala's history and art, just a short boat ride away - an essential part of the Alleppey trip.

Alappuzha Beach, also known as Alleppey Beach, is a paradise on earth with golden sands flowing into the stunning Arabian Sea. It is a timeless beauty where tourists can watch the stunning spectacle as the sun sinks into the sea. A walk on the 137-year-old pier offers unparalleled views of the beach. Nearby are Vijaya Beach Park and the old Alappuzha Lighthouse - a testament to the maritime history of the region.

The Revi Karunakaran Memorial Museum is a jewel in the heart of Alleppey. It is a treasure trove of artifacts, including a unique collection of Swarovski crystals, Tanjore paintings and ivory carvings. This private museum was lovingly decorated by Revi Karunakaran in memory of his wife and offers a personal, intimate atmosphere that other museums lack. You are just a short walk from the fascinating backwaters of Kerala, where you can take a houseboat tour after exploring the museum. A visit to this museum is a rewarding cultural dive!

The iconic "Kerala House Boat" in Alleppey is an unforgettable experience not to be missed. As you glide across the tranquil backwaters, enjoy delicious meals served on board. The never-ending panorama of lush green rice fields, chirping birds, and local life on the shore is a visual delight. Also visit the nearby Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, a bird lover's paradise. Don't forget to catch the breathtaking sunset from your houseboat.

A visit to the Kidangamparambu Sree Bhuvaneswari Temple in Alleppey is simply breathtaking. Nestled in a heavenly setting, the divine aura of this temple has a calming effect, making it a popular spiritual retreat. The idol of Goddess Bhuvaneswari, the main deity, is of unique fascination. During Navaratri, the temple is particularly busy. Just a few kilometers away is the majestic Lake Vembanad, India's longest lake, known for its stunning backwaters and houseboat cruises. Don't miss it!

Visit Chavara Bhavan - the birthplace of the blessed Kuriakose Elias Chavara, a must for spiritual travelers who want to experience stories from the past. A 250-year-old beacon flickers from its altar and you can walk in the saint's footsteps. Don't miss the wondrous well that never runs dry. Accessible only by boat, your trip also promises breathtaking views of Alleppey's backwaters. Nearby, you'll find the fascinating St. Mary's Forane Church, an architectural marvel dating back to 427 AD.

Enjoy the imperishable beauty of Alleppey at Sea View Park, a pristine place best known for boat rides and picnics. In this verdant setting, you can take boat rides or just enjoy the mesmerizing views of the backwaters. Insider info: visit the place at sunset to take the perfect photo! Just a stone's throw away is the Allappuzha Lighthouse, which has been standing since 1862 and offers panoramic views of the city and the Arabian Sea. An absolute experience not to be missed!