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Famous for its backwaters and lush greenery, the town of Alappuzha, located on the shores of the Arabian Sea in Kerala, has become one of the most visited tourist destinations in the country. It is the perfect getaway for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of big cities and enjoy a relaxing few days on the backwaters. It is also an attractive destination for those looking to experience village life and immerse themselves in nature. This small coastal town will capture hearts and live long in the memory of those lucky enough to experience its natural beauty and the hospitality of its people.

Exploring Alappuzha

Houseboat Cruise on the Backwaters

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The biggest attraction for travelers visiting Alappuzha is the houseboat cruise, which offers a unique experience of admiring the natural beauty of Kerala while traversing through its backwaters and spending a quiet few hours or more to relax. The cruise offers a glimpse into the village life of rural Kerala, surrounded by lush greenery and coconut trees.

Alappuzha Beach

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Alappuzha Beach is the ideal place for viewing the sunset, especially for families with children who can have an enjoyable evening on the beach. There is also a lighthouse on the beach offering stunning views of the Arabian Sea and Alappuzha town. You can also visit the historic Alappuzha pier on the beach.

Vembanad Lake

Vembanad Lake is home to the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, and the surrounding wetlands are rich in aquatic life. It is an ideal destination for a backwater cruise, especially for nature lovers and bird watchers.

Kayaking in the Backwaters

For those looking to explore the backwaters while being active, kayaking through the Alappuzha backwaters is a great option, as it offers a closer and more personal experience with nature and village life while simultaneously providing a good workout. Unlike houseboats, kayaks can navigate through smaller, unexplored canals, offering a more intimate and offbeat adventure.

Other Activities in Alappuzha

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A village tour through Alappuzha offers you a glimpse of a way of life that is much closer to nature. You can enjoy a canoe ride through the backwaters, showing you traditional village life, where you will be able to witness the art of coir rope-making, in which coconut husks are processed into strong ropes.

Make sure to enjoy an authentic Kerala meal of rice, fish, and coconut-based dishes served on banana leaves.

Also, witness traditional toddy-tapping techniques and visit a traditional toddy shop to try toddy with local seafood delicacies.

Another interesting visit is to the famous Kuttanad region, known as the “Rice Bowl of Kerala,” where paddy fields lie below sea level. A famous pilgrimage site in Kuttanad is the Edathua St. George Forane Church.

The Krishnapuram Palace, known for its rich history and unique architecture, is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts.

Accommodations In Alappuzha

Alappuzha offers a variety of accommodation options, ensuring there is something for every type of traveler.

Luxury hotels and resorts are perfect for travelers seeking comfort and world-class service.

Budget hotels offer a comfortable stay with essential facilities.

Homestays are also a popular option for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the local culture.

 There are also budget-friendly hostels that cater to backpackers and solo travelers.

The most popular choice of stay for travelers is the houseboat stay, where you can experience Kerala’s backwaters and immerse yourself in nature. Houseboats are extremely comfortable and offer all the necessary facilities and meals

Getting to Alappuzha

You can reach Alappuzha by air, train, road, or water, depending on your preference. The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, which is 83 kilometers away and takes about two hours by taxi, bus, or train. If traveling by train, Alappuzha Railway Station is well-connected to major cities and it takes about an hour to reach from Ernakulam Railway Station. By road, Alappuzha is accessible via National Highway 66, with bus and car travel taking around two hours from Kochi, three and a half hours from Trivandrum. For a unique experience, you can take a scenic boat ride from Kochi, which takes four hours, or from Kottayam, which takes about two and a half hours, through Kerala’s picturesque backwaters.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Alappuzha is either between October and March, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing, houseboat cruises, and other water activities, or during the monsoon season from June to September, when the heavy rainfall creates a lush green landscape.