Alleppey travel guide

Things to do in Alleppey

1. Houseboat cruise

   6 h · ₹2,500 entry

   A houseboat cruise in Alleppey lets you board around noon to sail across Vembanad Lake and the narrow canals. It is a peaceful way to experience the backwaters of Kerala.

   Tip: Pack mosquito repellent for the evening hours on the water

2. Shikara canal ride

   2 h · ₹400 entry

   The shikara canal ride takes you on small traditional boats into the narrow canals of Alleppey. It offers a close look at the peaceful backwaters and local village life in Kerala.

   Tip: Wear light cotton clothes and carry a hat or umbrella for sun protection

3. Alleppey Beach

   1 h · Free

   Alleppey Beach is a peaceful coastal spot located in Alappuzha, Kerala. It features a historic 150-year-old pier extending into the sea and an old lighthouse nearby. The area is also close to significant local churches like the Bishop's House.

4. Marari Beach

   2 h · Free

   Marari Beach is a calm and clean fishing village beach located in Mararikulam village in Alappuzha District of Kerala. It is a quiet coastal spot to watch local fishing boats and experience traditional village life by the Arabian Sea.

5. Kuttanad paddy fields

   2 h · Free

   Kuttanad is a unique village area in Alleppey, Kerala, famous for its special farming practices located below sea level. Visitors can see vast green stretches of paddy fields managed through traditional water management systems.

   Tip: Wear a hat and comfortable walking shoes for exploring the bunds between the fields.

Where to stay in Alleppey

• Houseboat

  ₹7,000–20,000 per boat

  Overnight cruise with all meals — the main event.

• Alleppey town

  ₹1,000–3,000

  Homestays by the canals.

• Marari

  ₹5,000–15,000

  Beach resorts 15 km north.

What to eat

• Karimeen pollichathu

  local dish

  Pearl-spot fish baked in banana leaf.

• Toddy shop meals

  local dish

  Spicy fish curry and tapioca.

• Thaff

  restaurant

  Popular for biryani and Kerala food.