Kerala – ‘God’s Own Country’ is visited by lakhs of travelers every year due to being home to numerous places. Among many places to visit, Alleppey which is also known as the ‘Venice of the East’ is an ideal destination to be visited in Kerala. Alleppey is famous for backwaters and houseboats. However, this beautiful destination is much more than backwaters, Alleppey has abundant natural beauty and so many top places to visit in Alleppey.
Alleppey is also home to many old temples and religious places. The place is the perfect blend of different canals, beaches, churches, paddy fields, temples, and different lagoons.
16 Best Places to Visit in Alleppey for Couples
If you also plan to visit Alleppey in the near future, then beneath we have compiled a list of top places to visit in Alleppey. All the places mentioned below are very beautiful and visiting these places is absolutely worthwhile.
1. Kuttanad Backwaters
Location: Kuttanad Taluk, Alappuzha district, Kerala
Entry Fee: INR 10 for the lower deck while INR 15 for the upper decks
Timings: 10.45 AM to 9.15 PM
One of the most famous places to visit in Alleppey is Kuttanad Backwaters which is famous for its spectacular lagoon. The place is surrounded by beautiful lakes, rivers, canals, mountains, and ethereal landscapes. The joy of floating along the pristine backwaters on a houseboat is incredible. The place is commonly known as the ‘Rice bowl of Kerala,’ huge rice plantations. If you are in Alleppey for some days, make sure to include the place in your itinerary.
2. Alappuzha Beach
Location: Alappuzha
Things To Do: Parasailing, beach volleyball, and surfing
Famous For the Alappuzha beach festival, Sand art festival, etc.
With dense palm groves, a beautiful park in close proximity, an ancient lighthouse, pristine sceneries, canals, lagoons, and much more, Alappuzha Beach always remain among the top key places to visit in Alleppey. Many movies are also filmed at this picturesque beach. The beach is a paradise for people looking for some relaxation while adventure seekers can get indulged in activities such as parasailing, beach volleyball, & surfing.
3. Marari Beach
Location: Beach Road, Mararikulam 688006, India
Things To Do: Relaxing, swimming
Famous For Filthy stretch, palm-fringed bay, blue sea, and picturesque ambiance
Marari Beach in Alleppey is among the prominent places to visit in Alleppey. Located just 10 km away from Alleppey, the beach is located in the quaint town of Mararikulam. The place is ideal for relaxing with family. This beautiful destination is well known among honeymooners as well, thanks to its glistening sands and crystal clear waters. The couples can watch the sunrise and sunset to have a romantic experience. The place is rated as one of the World’s Top five Hammock Beaches – by the National Geographic Survey and is thus among the top places to visit in Alleppey
Also, the beach is home to some of the wonderful resorts and hotels around Marari Beach offering the best hospitality to the tourists.
4. Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple
Location: SH 12, Ambalapuzha, Kerala 688561
Things To Do: Visit the temple, taste delicious sweets
Famous For Known as Dwaraka of the South
Another eminent and top place to visit in Alleppey is Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple. This temple is a must-visit for all first-time travelers to Alleppey. It was built in 790 AD and is a popular Hindu temple famous for the ‘palpayasam’. It is a sweet pudding made of rice and milk, which is given as prasad. It is also known as the ‘Dwaraka of the South’.
5. St. Mary Forane Church
Location: Alleppey
Things To Do: Visit a church, attend mass
Famous For: Magnificent sculpture, murals, and the scenic views of the backwaters.
The St Mary Forane Church is among the oldest churches in Alleppey, its existence backs to 835 AD. The church is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Alleppey due to its wonderful sculpture, murals, and stunning views of the backwaters flowing adjacent to the church. At present, the church is known for accommodating 2500 families and is one of the tourist places visited often by the masses
6. St. Andrew’s Basilica Arthunkal
Location: Arthunkal Basilica, Arthunkal P.O, Cherthala, Alappuzha, Kerala
Key activities To Do: Visit the church, attend mass
Famous For: Majestic architecture
The church is well-known as the only shrine of St. Sebastian worldwide. The St. Andrew’s Basilica Arthunkal was built in the 16th century but renovated many times after that. Due to its majestic architecture and proximity to Arthunkal Beach, St. Andrew’s Basilica always list among the most popular spiritual places to see in Alleppey.
7. Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple
Location: Mannarasala P.O, Haripad, Kerala
Things To Do: Visit the temple, attend prayer
Famous For: The largest temple in Kerala
Situated in the Alappuzha district, Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple is the largest temple in Kerala dedicated to Serpent gods. Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple, as the name signifies, is devoted to snakes. It is an important place of worship for the devotees of the serpent god or Nagaraja. On the way to the temple, one can see around 1,00,000 images of snakes. Every year Mannarasala Aayilyam festival is organized at the temple in a grand way.
The interiors of the temple have numerous snake paintings. The temple is a great pilgrimage location for most tourists and visiting this temple gives you some insight into the culture and traditions of Kerala.
8. Alleppey Lighthouse
Location: CCSB Rd, Civil Station Ward, Alappuzha, Kerala 688012
Things To Do: Photography
Famous For its Tranquil ambiance
Commonly known as the Alappuzha lighthouse, the Alleppey lighthouse is clearly visible from miles away. The Alappuzha Lighthouse, which once was the marker of the busiest ports and trade centres of Kerala, today is an important historical monument in Alleppey. The tourists can go to the top and witness the green scapes of the entire Alleppey town. Located almost 4 kilometers ahead of Alappuzha town, the place offers a panoramic 360-degree view of the ocean. Make sure to include this place in the list of top places to visit in Alleppey.
9. Pathiramanal
Location: Muhamma
Things To Do: Birds spotting
Famous For Migratory birds
Pathiramanal, which means “Sands of the Night”, is a small size lake island situated on the backwaters of Alappuzha in Lake Vembanad. If you are a bird watcher, then this place is a paradise for you as you can see more than 91 local species of birds and 50 species of migratory birds. The scenic location of the island makes it a lovely destination to observe birds and the water.
The island is just half an hour away via speedboat from Alleppey and one must definitely head here during their visit to Alleppey.
10. Pandavas Rock
Located just outside of town, Pandavan Rock is another popular and top place to visit in Alleppey. The large rock formations were believed to be used by the Pandavas during the Mahabharata War. Today, it is one of the key attractions and visitors climb to the top of the rocks for a panoramic view of the area.
It takes 1 hour and 17 minutes (47.6 km) to reach the Pandavas Rocks via the Alappuzha railway station from Alleppey.
11. Andhakaranazhi Beach
- Location: Alappuzha-Arthunkal-Chellanam-Thoppumpady Rd, Alappuzha, India
- Things To Do: Photography, relaxation
Andhakaranazhi, dubbed the ‘Lagoon of Darkness,’ captivates nature photographers with its beauty. Nestled 31 km from Alleppey, this beach along the Kochi-Alleppey route is famed for stunning sunrise and sunset views. The convergence of backwaters and the Arabian Sea, complemented by the Manakkodam lighthouse, creates a mesmerizing spectacle.
12. Thumpoly Beach
- Location: Thumpoly Beach, Alappuzha, Kerala
- Things To Do: Leisure, water sports adventures
Highlights: Conclude your Alleppey journey romantically at Thumpoly Beach. Revel in a beautiful sunset with your partner on the golden sands. After exploration, unwind amidst breathtaking ocean and greenery views. Refresh yourself by splashing in the ocean—a perfect finale to your Alleppey sightseeing tour.
13. Edathua Church
- Location: Church Road, Edathua, Kuttanad Taluk, Kerala
- Things To Do: Church visit
Known for exquisite architecture, Edathua Church hosts grand feasts in May. Located near sea level, this Alleppey tourist spot boasts a massive Edathua in proximity, echoing medieval European church designs.
14. Krishnapuram Palace
- Location: Kayamkulam, Kerala
- Things To Do: Sightseeing
Admire grand Keralan architecture at Krishnapuram Palace with its gabled roof, narrow corridors, and dormer windows. The palace, a museum featuring the colossal Gajendra Moksham wall painting, stands as a prominent attraction in Alleppey.
15. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
- Location: Kavanattinkara, Kerala
- Things To Do: Bird spotting, nature walks
Explore the famous Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, a one-day trip destination on Lake Vembanad’s banks. Witness diverse birds, including Siberian Stork, Heron, Egret, and Teal, making it a haven for bird enthusiasts. Enjoy local restaurants in Kumarakom.
16. Chavara Bhawan
- Location: Kuttamangalam, Kainakary, Kerala
- Things To Do: Attend prayers
Chavara Bhawan, the ancestral house of St. Kuriakose Elias Chavara, serves humanity as a pilgrimage site. Dating back to 1805, the construction, surrounded by Alleppey backwaters and paddy fields, attracts nature lovers. A must-visit for those exploring Alleppey in 2 days.
How To Reach Alleppey?
By Air: Reach Alleppey conveniently from Cochin International Airport (COK), 78 km away. Hire a taxi or use local transportation from the airport.
By Train: Alleppey Railway Station (ALLP) connects major cities like Kochi, Trivandrum, and Bangalore. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available for local transit.
By Road: Alleppey, accessible via National Highway 66, welcomes visitors by state-run and private buses. Taxis and private cars provide additional travel options.
By Water: Experience Alleppey’s charm through backwater houseboats and ferries, offering a scenic and leisurely journey. Consider a ferry from Munnar to Alleppey for added adventure.
Traveling Tips
- Don’t miss the opportunity to stay on a traditional houseboat in the backwaters of Alleppey. It’s a unique and relaxing experience. Book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Explore the serene backwaters of Alleppey. Consider a day cruise or a canoe ride to witness the local life along the waterways. The backwaters offer a tranquil and picturesque setting.
- The ideal time to visit Alleppey is during the winter months (October to March) when the weather is pleasant. This is also the peak tourist season.
- Try the local Kerala cuisine, especially seafood dishes. Alleppey is known for its delicious seafood, and you can savor authentic flavors at local restaurants and eateries.
- The tourists can also explore the option of homestay to experience the warm hospitality of the locals.
- Kerala is renowned for its Ayurvedic treatments. Consider indulging in a traditional Ayurvedic massage or wellness treatment for a rejuvenating experience.
- Check for local cultural events or festivals happening during your visit. Alleppey hosts various cultural programs and festivals that provide insights into the rich heritage of the region.
- Pack light, breathable clothing, sunscreen, and sunglasses, to stay protected under sun. The weather can be warm, especially during the daytime.
- Practice responsible tourism by respecting the local culture and environment. Avoid littering and contribute to the conservation of the beautiful backwaters.
- Explore Alleppey on a bicycle or hire a scooter to navigate the narrow lanes and explore the local attractions at your own pace. Auto-rickshaws and taxis are also readily available.
- Spend some time at Alleppey Beach, known for its golden sands and sunset views. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the coastal atmosphere.
Conclusion
If you look for a place to relax and soak up some culture, then there is no better place than Alleppey. So make sure to visit these top places to visit in Alleppey during your next vacation here. Check out the best tour packages to Kerala at Honeymoon Bug.
Frequently Asked Questions
Name the top places to visit in Alleppey.
Some of the key attractions to visit in Alleppey include St. Mary Forane Church, Alappuzha Beach, Marari Beach, Andhakaranazhi Beach, St. Andrew’s Basilica, Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple, Chettikulangara Temple, etc.
Which is the most ideal time to visit Alleppey?
The best time to plan a trip to Alleppey is from November – March during the winter season as the temperature during these months is quite pleasant to explore the place. During this time, the average temperature is around 25°C thereby making it perfect for enjoying a wonderful vacation.
Are 2 days enough for Alleppey?
To explore Alleppey, a minimum of 2 days is required as you will get hold of the real charm of the Alleppey backwaters. Make sure to include a 1-night stay in a houseboat and also explore the popular beaches.
What are the timings of the Alleppey houseboat?
The houseboat starts at 10 AM and cruises through the backwaters, there will be a stoppage for lunch at 1:00 PM. After lunch, the boat restarts cruising until 4 or 5 PM.
