Top 10 Things to Do in Alleppey (2025 Complete Guide)

Alleppey (officially Alappuzha) is the crown jewel of Kerala's backwaters, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and authentic experiences. Whether you're a honeymooner, family traveler, or solo adventurer, this guide covers the absolute best things to do in Alleppey.

1. 🚤 Houseboat Cruise on the Backwaters

No trip to Alleppey is complete without a houseboat cruise! These traditional kettuvallams (houseboats) offer a unique way to explore the serene backwaters.

What to Expect:

• Duration Options: 2-hour sunset cruise, half-day, full-day, or overnight stay
• Facilities: AC/non-AC rooms, attached bathrooms, dining area, upper deck for views
• Meals: Fresh Kerala cuisine prepared onboard by expert chefs
• Cost: ₹8,000-20,000 depending on category and season
• Best Time: Early morning or sunset for magical views

Pro Tip: Book through a trusted local operator like us to avoid overcharging and ensure quality service. October to March offers the best weather for cruising.

2. 🏠 Stay at an Authentic Kerala Homestay

Experience genuine Kerala hospitality by staying with local families. Homestays offer a window into traditional life that hotels simply can't match.

Why Choose a Homestay:

• Home-cooked authentic Kerala meals with family recipes
• Personal attention and local travel tips from hosts
• Learn about Kerala culture, festivals, and traditions
• More affordable than resorts, better value for money
• Support local families and sustainable tourism

3. 🚣 Canoe Ride Through Village Backwaters

For an intimate backwater experience, take a traditional canoe ride through narrow village canals. Unlike large houseboats, canoes can access smaller waterways where you'll see authentic village life up close.

Highlights:

• Peaceful 2-3 hour rides through narrow canals
• Watch local fishermen at work
• See traditional coir-making and toddy tapping
• Observe birds and wildlife in natural habitat
• Cost: ₹500-800 per person

4. 🏖️ Relax at Alleppey Beach

Alleppey Beach (also called Alappuzha Beach) is a beautiful stretch of coastline perfect for sunset viewing. The historic pier extending into the Arabian Sea makes for stunning photos.

Activities at the Beach:

• Watch spectacular sunsets over the Arabian Sea
• Visit the 150-year-old lighthouse
• Enjoy street food - fresh coconut water, Kerala snacks
• Take a peaceful evening walk on the pier
• Try local seafood at beachside shacks

5. 🕌 Explore Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple

This ancient temple, just 14km from Alleppey, is famous for its palpayasam (sweet rice pudding) offering and beautiful Kerala architecture.

What Makes It Special:

• Built in 790 AD with stunning traditional architecture
• Famous for daily palpayasam offering (must try!)
• Important pilgrimage site for Kerala Hindus
• Annual Champakulam boat race starts from here

6. 🐦 Bird Watching at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary

Located 32km from Alleppey, this 14-acre sanctuary is paradise for bird lovers. Best visited November to February when migratory birds arrive.

Birds to Spot: Siberian storks, egrets, herons, darters, kingfishers, and over 180 species!

7. 🚲 Village Cycling Tour

Rent a bicycle and explore the countryside at your own pace. Cycling through paddy fields, coconut groves, and village lanes offers an authentic Kerala experience.

Recommended Route:

• Duration: 3-4 hours
• Distance: 15-20km easy riding
• Stops: Toddy shops, coir villages, temples, backwater views
• Best Time: Early morning (6-9 AM) or late afternoon (4-6 PM)

8. 🎭 Watch Kathakali Dance Performance

Experience Kerala's classical dance-drama form with elaborate costumes, face makeup, and storytelling through expressions.

Where to Watch: Several cultural centers in Alleppey offer evening performances (6-8 PM). Duration: 1-2 hours. Cost: ₹200-500 per person.

9. 🍲 Food Tour: Taste Authentic Kerala Cuisine

Alleppey is a food lover's paradise! Don't miss these local specialties:

Must-Try Dishes:

• Karimeen Pollichathu: Pearl spot fish grilled in banana leaf
• Appam with Stew: Rice pancakes with coconut milk curry
• Kerala Sadya: Traditional feast on banana leaf (20+ dishes!)
• Toddy: Fresh palm wine (try at local toddy shops)
• Puttu & Kadala: Steamed rice cake with chickpea curry
• Fish Moilee: Mild coconut milk-based fish curry

10. 🛶 Nehru Trophy Boat Race (August)

If visiting in August, don't miss this spectacular snake boat race! Over 100 rowers propel massive chundan vallams (snake boats) in a thrilling competition.

Date: Second Saturday of August annually
Location: Punnamada Lake, Alleppey
Duration: Full day event with cultural programs

Practical Tips for Visiting Alleppey:

• Best Time to Visit: October to March (pleasant weather)
• How to Reach: Cochin Airport (85km), Alappuzha Railway Station (in city)
• Budget: ₹3,000-5,000 per day (mid-range including stay, food, activities)
• Duration: 2-3 days ideal for experiencing main attractions
• What to Pack: Light cotton clothes, sunscreen, hat, mosquito repellent

Conclusion

Alleppey offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and authentic Kerala hospitality. Whether you're cruising on a houseboat, cycling through villages, or savoring local cuisine, every moment in this backwater paradise creates lasting memories.

The key to a great Alleppey experience? Stay local, eat local, and explore beyond the tourist hotspots. Book a homestay, connect with locals, and discover the real magic of God's Own Country!

Have questions about planning your Alleppey trip? Contact Alleppey Homes at +91-9946-021397 or visit our contact page.