Alappuzha (Alleppey) Tourism And Travel Guide

Alappuzha or Alleppey, more fondly known as the Venice of the East, is popular for the rustic backwaters and its unforgettable house boat cruises. Besides being the oldest planned city in the region, Alleppey was rated the cleanest town in India by the Center for Science and Environment in 2016. Tourism in Alleppey is just as clean and splendid as the city. 

This beach town has been quite central to the history of the region. The town has been home to the Punnapra-Valayar uprising and the revolt against the Feudal Raj. The city gained importance during the Chera rule and to an extent the Cheras set base for the modern day Alleppey. Christianity has held a strong foothold in the area since long with the port town being highly influenced by the Portuguese, Dutch and British invasions. Today, you can travel to this beautiful city with a little help from this travel guide of Alleppey. 

A popular tourist spot in Kerala, Alleppey is well connected by roads, rail and air. The closest airport is located 78 kms away at Cochin while the railway station is just 4 kms from the city centre. State run as well as private buses connect Alleppey to major cities and towns in Kerala and neighbouring states. State highways SH66, SH40 and SH11 connect Alleppey to other places. A drive down these roads is quite picturesque and memorable. Meanwhile, within Alleppey, the ideal mode of transport for travellers is the well maintained public bus service. One may even choose to opt for autos or ferries.

Despite being so close to the equator, Alleppey has more of a temperate climate with temperatures generally ranging between 20-35^o Celsius. The weather remains pleasant all year round barring the monsoons when it rains heavily. The ideal time to visit Alappuzha is from September through March. However, off late, the city has been seeing an increase in monsoon tourism with tourists wishing to soak in the natural beauty and freshness of the lush greens that Alleppey offers them.

Of the many things that this town has to offer, we’ve listed out the few that must not be missed.

House Boat Cruise: Spending a night in the house boats gliding over the backwaters is on the top of every traveller’s to do list. Experience the way of the locals and become one among them as you take the boats takes you past many descreet villages.

Snake Boat Race: This will definitely be the highlight of your trip if you’re travelling to Alleppey in August. The Nehru Trophy Boat Race, the most prestigious of all, is held every year in the Punnamada Lake close to Alleppey. People from the nearby cities as well as neighbouring states flock to the town to witness the competition of Chundam Vallams (snake boats).

Chakara Restaurant: For those looking to splurge on a gourmet wine and dine affair, Chakara is the best place in town with its fusion of local Keralite and European dishes with an array of wines on offer. 

Indian Coffee House: With multiple outlets across Kerala and two in Alleppey, the place is a must visit for the coffee lovers. The joint serves up simple South Indian dishes and ice creams along with their famous filter coffee at pocket friendly prices.

Spice Market: Kerala is well known for its spices and a visit to the spice market at Jew town in Alleppey should definitely be on your to-do list.