Top 10 Places to Visit in Alleppey (Alappuzha): Your Ultimate Travel Guide for 2025
Alleppey—also known as Alappuzha—is a gem among Kerala tourist places, often called the “Venice of the East” due to its scenic backwaters, serene beaches, and vibrant culture. Just 62 km from Kochi, it offers a perfect blend of nature, heritage, and tranquility. Whether you're planning a one-day trip or a two-day itinerary, this guide to the top places to visit in Alleppey will help you plan the perfect journey.
Let’s explore the best places to visit in Alleppey in 2025, including local tips, specialties, travel seasons, and entry fees. These are not only must-see Alleppey tourist places, but also great for Alappuzha sightseeing and nearby exploration.
1. Alleppey Beach
Location: Alleppey Beach (2 km from Alleppey town center)Specialty: Alleppey Beach is a picturesque stretch of golden sand, perfect for relaxation and adventure. It’s a hotspot for activities like parasailing, beach volleyball, and surfing, and it hosts the famous Alappuzha Beach Festival. The nearby ancient pier and vibrant local eateries add to its charm, making it one of the top Alleppey tourist attractions.
Best Time to Visit: October to March, when the weather is cool and ideal for beach activities.
Entry Fee: Free
Travel Tip: Visit in the evening to catch a breathtaking sunset and enjoy local street food from nearby vendors.
2. Alappuzha Lighthouse
Location: Alappuzha Lighthouse (3 km from Alleppey Beach)Specialty: Built in 1862, this historic lighthouse is a significant landmark in Alleppey, once serving as a navigational aid for traders. Climb its spiral staircase for a 360-degree view of the city, backwaters, and coastline. The adjacent museum offers insights into Alleppey’s maritime history, making it a must-visit for history buffs.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round, but early mornings or late afternoons avoid the midday heat and crowds.
Entry Fee: Approximately ₹10 for adults, ₹3 for children (verify on-site as prices may vary).
Travel Tip: Bring a camera to capture the panoramic views from the top, especially during sunrise or sunset.
3. Backwaters of Alleppey
Location: Alleppey Backwaters (throughout Alappuzha)Specialty: The backwaters are Alleppey’s crown jewel, a network of canals, lagoons, and lakes fringed by palm trees and paddy fields. Houseboat cruises offer a unique way to experience Kerala’s rural life, with options for day trips or overnight stays. It’s a must-do for anyone visiting Alleppey, often topping lists of Alappuzha famous places.
Best Time to Visit: November to February, when the weather is dry and pleasant for cruising.
Entry Fee: Houseboat rentals start at ₹6,000 per night, varying by season and luxury level.
Travel Tip: Book your houseboat in advance through trusted operators like Kerala Tourism for a tailored experience with authentic local cuisine.
4. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
Location: Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary (16 km from Alleppey town)Specialty: Located on the banks of Vembanad Lake, this sanctuary is a haven for birdwatchers, hosting a variety of migratory birds like Siberian cranes and resident species like egrets. The lush greenery and serene pathways make it a peaceful retreat, ideal for nature lovers.
Best Time to Visit: November to February, when migratory birds are abundant.
Entry Fee: ₹50 for Indians, ₹100 for foreigners
Travel Tip: Visit early in the morning with binoculars for the best birdwatching experience.
5. Vembanad Lake
Location: Vembanad Lake (near Alleppey)Specialty: As Kerala’s largest lake, Vembanad Lake is the heart of Alleppey’s backwaters and a hub for houseboat cruises. It’s also the site of the famous Nehru Trophy Boat Race, a cultural highlight. The lake’s serene waters and surrounding greenery make it a top destination for Alleppey sightseeing.
Best Time to Visit: November to February for pleasant weather and optimal cruising conditions.
Entry Fee: Included in houseboat packages (starting from ₹6,000 per night)
Travel Tip: Opt for a sunset cruise to witness the lake’s beauty under golden skies.
6. Marari Beach
Location: Marari Beach (13 km from Alleppey town)Specialty: Marari Beach, located in Mararikulam, is a tranquil alternative to Alleppey Beach, known for its pristine sands and clear waters. Rated among the world’s top five hammock beaches by National Geographic, it’s perfect for relaxation and water sports like surfing and parasailing.
Best Time to Visit: October to March for sunny days and calm seas.
Entry Fee: Free
Travel Tip: Stay at a beachside resort like Marari Beach Resort for a luxurious and serene experience.
7. Pathiramanal Island
Location: Pathiramanal Island (13 km from Alleppey by boat)Specialty: This small island in Vembanad Lake is a hidden gem for nature lovers and birdwatchers. Surrounded by lush greenery, it’s home to over 90 bird species and offers serene nature walks. Its name, meaning “sands of the night,” adds to its mystique.
Best Time to Visit: November to February for birdwatching and pleasant weather.
Entry Fee: Free (transportation costs apply, typically via boat from Alleppey)
Travel Tip: Hire a local boat from Alleppey Boat Jetty to reach the island.
8. Krishnapuram Palace
Location: Krishnapuram Palace (47 km from Alleppey town)Specialty: This 18th-century palace in Kayamkulam is a museum showcasing Kerala’s rich history and architecture. Highlights include the Gajendra Mokshanam mural and traditional Kerala-style design with gabled roofs and narrow corridors.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round, but avoid peak summer (April-May) for comfort.
Entry Fee: Approximately ₹10 for adults, ₹5 for children (verify on-site)
Travel Tip: Explore the palace gardens and nearby archaeological exhibits for a deeper cultural dive.
9. St. Andrew’s Basilica Arthunkal
Location: St. Andrew’s Basilica (22 km from Alleppey town)Specialty: One of Kerala’s oldest churches, established in the 16th century, this basilica is known for its stunning architecture and religious significance. The restored older church and the grand new structure attract both pilgrims and tourists.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with special vibrancy during festivals like the Arthunkal Perunnal in January.
Entry Fee: Free
Travel Tip: Visit during the annual feast in January for a vibrant cultural experience.
10. Aroor Beach
Location: Aroor Beach (10 km from Alleppey town)
Specialty: A less crowded beach with a serene atmosphere, ideal for a quiet getaway. It’s perfect for those seeking solitude away from tourist crowds.Best Time to Visit: October to March for pleasant weather.
Entry Fee: Free
Travel Tip: Visit early morning for a peaceful walk and photography.
🗺️ Planning Your Alleppey Itinerary
⭐ One-Day Trip
Morning: Houseboat ride on the backwaters
Afternoon: Alleppey Beach + Alappuzha Lighthouse
Evening: Dinner by the beach
⭐ Two-Day Trip
Day 1: Backwaters + Lighthouse + Beach
Day 2: Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary + Marari Beach + St. Mary’s Church
🧳 Additional Travel Tips for Alleppey Visitors
Transportation: Use auto-rickshaws for short trips; taxis for longer drives like to Kayamkulam.
Festivals: Don’t miss the Nehru Trophy Boat Race (August) or Arthunkal Perunnal (January).
Local Cuisine: Try Karimeen Pollichathu (Pearl Spot fish), Prawn Mango Curry, and Kerala Sadya.
Alleppey Tourist Attractions
| Place Name | Distance from Alleppey Town | Specialty | Best Time to Visit | Entry Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alleppey Beach | 2 km | Golden sands, water sports, beach festival | Oct-Mar | Free |
| Alappuzha Lighthouse | 3 km | Historic 1862 lighthouse, 360-degree views | Year-round | ₹10 adults, ₹3 kids |
| Backwaters of Alleppey | Throughout Alappuzha | Houseboat cruises, scenic canals | Nov-Feb | ₹6,000+ (houseboat) |
| Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary | 16 km | Birdwatching, migratory birds | Nov-Feb | ₹50 Indians, ₹100 foreigners |
| Vembanad Lake | Near Alleppey | Largest lake, houseboat cruises, boat race | Nov-Feb | Free (with houseboat) |
| Marari Beach | 13 km | Pristine sands, top hammock beach | Oct-Mar | Free |
| Pathiramanal Island | 13 km (by boat) | Birdwatching, serene island | Nov-Feb | Free (boat costs apply) |
| Krishnapuram Palace | 47 km | 18th-century palace, Gajendra Mokshanam mural | Year-round | ₹10 adults, ₹5 kids |
| St. Andrew’s Basilica | 22 km | Historic church, Arthunkal Perunnal festival | Year-round | Free |
| St. Mary’s Forane Church | 16 km | Oldest church, backwater setting | Year-round | Free |
