The scenes that play in your mind at the mention of Kerala is undeniably that of the scenic backwaters with the houseboats in it, coconut groves and boat races – thanks to the many movies, songs or books that have featured the state. The small town of Alleppey, more popularly called Alappuzha, is all of that – with lagoons and canals running through the town, stretches of green paddy fields, lip smacking variety of freshwater as well as seafood, and much more. It is also called the ‘Venetian Capital of Kerala’ or ‘Venice of the East’.
1Ideal Time
- Summer (March to May):
Summer is usually a low time of tourism in Alleppey. Although the temperature might rise and it might get hot, one advantage of visiting the abode of backwaters around this time is that, you might get some incredible discounts in the service.
- Monsoon (June to August):
Monsoon is not an ideal time to visit Alleppey, because the main attraction of the place, houseboat rides in the backwaters are mostly stopped as it starts pouring. However, a rain soaked Alleppey is breathtakingly beautiful sight. Soon after the monsoon, Alleppey bounces back from its dormant state to a bunch of colorful festivities.
- Winter (December to February):
Winter makes for the perfect time to visit the place as the climate remains pleasant and life is at its bustling, lively best during the months of December to February. This almost means a heavy influx of tourists, so you might want to make your bookings in advance.
2How to Reach
- By Road:
You can reach Alleppey conveniently via the road, taking the public transportation. There are numerous KSRTC buses running along this route from all parts of Kerala. You can also board buses from cities like Bangalore, Chennai, etc. to reach Allappey. A road trip would make for a beautiful experience.
- By Train:
Alleppey has its railway station that has trains running from different parts of Kerala as well as other major cities in India. Hence, boarding a train, too, is a convenient mode of transportation to reach the place.
- By Air:
The nearest airport to Alleppey is Cochin International Airport, which is close to 100 kms away. Cochin International can connect you anywhere in the globe. From the airport, you can hire a car or board a bus to reach Alleppey.
3Places to Visit
- The Lakes & Backwaters:
The whole point of visiting Alleppey is to enjoy the stunning sceneries of lakes, backwaters and lagoons. And there are innumerable water bodies throughout the town. Here are a few of them – The Kuttanad region of Alleppey is surrounded by sea, hills and paddy fields, making it an indescribably beautiful place to chill in a houseboat. Kuttanad is also called the ‘Rice bowl of India’. The longest lake in Kerala and one of the largest in India itself, Vembanad Lake is another place you shouldn’t miss. The famous Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race of Kerala is held in this lake.
- Beaches:
Alleppey has two main beaches – the Alleppey Beach and Marari Beach. They are bothe the perfect getaways if you are looking for a quiet and peaceful place o unwind. You can take walks in the clean beaches and also drop by at the couple of parks and picnic spots that lies close to the beach. Couples and families throng the beaches equally. The quiet little village near Marari Beach is also loved by the tourists.
- Churches:
Alleppey has a number of quaint, giant churches that attract tourists and believers from across the world. St Mary’s Forane Church is one such, which was apparently built sometime in 835 AD. St Andrew’s Basilica, Arthunkal, too is a beautiful church built by the Portuguese missionaries. St George’s Catholic Church is also a popularly visited church. St Andrew’s Forane Church, one of the oldest in Kerala, located in the shores of Alleppey Beach, looks and feels surreal.
- Temples:
The Ambalapuzha Temple is one of the oldest Krishna temples in both Kerala as well as India. While in Alleppey, do make sure to visit Karumadikkuttan, a statue of Buddha, made of black granite stone. Only half of the statue has stood the test of time. However, it is one of the most-visited sites in Alleppey, especially by people who are keen to understand the evolution of Buddhism in Kerala. Another intriguing temple to visit in Alleppey is the Mannarasala Sri Nagaraja Temple, devoted to the worship of snakes. The temple, shrouded by a forest, is sure to evoke a unique feeling.
- Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary:
Located along the banks of the pristine Vembanad Lake, Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a beautiful place replete with lush green. It is home to a wide variety of birds and hence serves as the paradise for bird watchers.
- Krishnapuram Palace:
This palace, built by King Marthanda Varma in the 18th century, is a popular tourist spot. It is a must-visit as the double storied palace is built in the traditional Kerala architecture. The palace has now been converted into a museum.
4Things to Do
- Foodie’s paradise:
No trip to Alleppey is ever complete without experiencing the magic the cuisine is. Drop by at one of the toddy shops and along with sipping toddy, try the mouthwatering dishes prepared in the shop – mainly non-veg.
- Ayurvedic retreat :
Treat your mind and body to some relaxing massages and spas at the Ayurvedic centers in Alleppey. You can also seek treatment for specific ailments there.
- Houseboat rides:
Now that goes without saying. The best way to experience the beauty that this small town is, is to take a boat ride in its backwaters or lakes.
- Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race:
If you’re in Alleppey during the month of August, consider yourself lucky to be able to witness the world famous snake boat race that is bound to be a very unique experience, which you cannot surely find anywhere else in the world. Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race is one experience that will stay with you long after you’ve left Alleppey.