Top Destinations in Alappuzha

Kuttanad Backwaters

                         Not just one of the best places to visit in Alleppey, the Kuttanad Backwaters cannot be confined within a place frame; it is a phenomenon. A fabulous lagoon surrounded by the beauty of lakes, rivers, canals, misty mountains, and almost otherworldly landscapes.This experience of floating along pristine backwaters on a houseboat is not explainable. You would have to live it to know it! The place is known as the 'Rice Bowl of Kerala' for its stunning rice plantations. If you are in Alleppey for a day, this place should be your entire itinerary.

Entry Fee: INR 10 for lower,for upper INR 15

Time: 10.45 AM to 9.15 PM.

St. Marys Forane Church

                           This beautiful Church exists from 835 AD with activities, Friday Liturgy, and educational institutions. The contemporary Church is one of the world's most famous pilgrimage centers. It is one of the largest churches and parishes in the Archeparchy of Changanassery. Currently, the Church houses 2500 families and is one of the tourist places in Alleppey that attracts a huge crowd. The Church celebrates two feasts or festivals every year. The first among them is St. Mary's Feast. As the Church is dedicated to the Virgin Mary, every year, the Church carries out a procession and a mass on the third Sunday of September. On this day, they visit the Church and participate in the festival. The costume and garb are intricate and designed, especially for that day's procession and mass.

                    There is great festivity regarding St. Sebastian. This festival is full of lights and pyrotechnics, which makes it quite enjoyable and interesting. This is also one of the reasons to visit Alleppey, as the beautiful settings of the Church, its feast, and its regal look command attention.

 Timing: 6 AM to 8 PM

 Entry fee: Nil.

Krishnapuram Palace

                    It is one of the most populous museums in Alleppey. Inaugurated by the king of Travancore, Anizham Thirunal Marthanda Varma, in the18th century, Krishnapuram Palace is quite famous for its olden architecture and beautiful murals. Presently managed by the Kerala Archaeological Department, this venue also boasts the largest mural painting in Kerala—the 'Gajendra Moksha.' The vast mural painting covers an area of about 53 km and is one of the most frequented places to visit in Alleppey. 

Entry fee: For children INR 5.

Timings: 9 AM to 1 PM and  2 PM to 4.30 PM (Monday closed)

Admission Fee: INR 10 for Adults              

Alleppey Lighthouse

Alleppey Beach

                     The palm-fringed shores of lapping waters, engaging artistic waves, thrilling sunrises, and sunsets are the ingredients of the AllepeBeach. This is one of the best locations to visit in Alleppey. This gorgeous beach consists of numerous mind-blowing yoga, which justifies it as an escape route for lovers' lap and families. The remnants of Alappuzha Also available is the Sea Bridge, which adds value to this place as one of the most frequented exploration sites for it speaks of the ancient times when Alleppey and Kerala, other than being the land of backwaters had prominent Port Cities such as this one. Its lengthy smiles along the coastline make the adventure more fascinating and thrilling. People can relax and have some time out a few meters apart: Sea View Park and the beach offer users different boat rides. A beach not so distant accommodates a nice picnic area for families who wish to take a break at the beach and have their picnic there. Because of the beautiful environment and the love shown by Europeans towards it, this beach is very popular and known as the ‘Venice of the East.

St. Andrews Basilica Arthunkal

                            One of the most popular spots for tourists in Alleppey is undoubtedly this church, as it is one of the world's biggest temples of St Sebastian’s. This famous church dates back to the 16th Century but was later reconstructed in 1584 by the missionary Father Jacomo Fenicio, who believed to have healing powers through his touch. No doubt, its many renovations throughout the course of time have provided some changes, but the structure has remained able to withstand any such alterations. Most likely due to the ornately decorated structures and the placement of St Andrew’s Basilica near the beach, it is claimed to be the most sought-after religious building in Alleppey.

Entrance charges: Free.

Visiting Hours: 5.30 AM to 6.30 AM

Karumadi

                    One of the wonders of Alappuzha tourist places, the Karumady or Karumadi village, is just a few kilometers from Alappuzha or Alleppey. The abode is historically important in developing Buddhism as a religion and perhaps is most famous for its Sri Buddha black granite statue. What makes this statue more beautiful is that the left side of this Sri Buddha Statue must be part of it. Several tourists, especially those who are gravely sick or those who have someone sick, travel to this village and bow down before the idol of Lord Buddha by touching his feet. The idol is said to possess healing powers that can be transferred directly to the healer or victim. The destination boasts several local restaurants that any gourmand would love to try, owing to indigenous spices and the wide availability of various South Indian dishes and cuisines.

Entry fee: None.

Marari beach

                     If you want to unwind, then Marari Beach is the place you must head to. The sleepy little village close to Marari Beach makes this beach so distinct and attractive. It invites people from all over the world to come and learn about the culture of the Indian state of Kerala. This beautiful place is termed a beach symphony with glittering sands and crystal-clear waters. The place invites couples to enjoy their romantic mood while witnessing the sun's rising and setting. According to the National Geographic Survey, it has been rated one of the world's Top Five Hammock beaches. The beach Marari offers diverse experiences to the visitors as it is more popular. It makes them forget the little instants of modern life and allows them to rejuvenate themselves and appreciate the various aspects and blessings of existence and nature. The beach also has a small village called the sea, one of the attractions in Alleppey, where you can learn about the culture.

Opening hours: All days are unlimited.

Edathua Church

PANDAVAN ROCK

                    This travel destination, Yayapuram Pandavan Rock, is famous for its numerous caves and beautiful rock carvings that portray the creativity of the sculptors. The place is so picturesque that even the best orators would fall short of words to describe it. It is said that a part of the cave was occupied by the Pandavas during the Mahabharata. Thus, it is included in the list of places to visit in Alleppey and is also very famous as a picnic spot. The way to the caves is not strenuous, but it is advised that older people avoid it if they have any other ailments. The rock caves are located close to the Kallada dam, which is also a place of interest.

 Price: FREE

 Time:6 AM to 10 PM. 

Pathiramanal

                    It is worth noting that the island is a deserted one. Hence, there are no worries concerning the presence of many people and vendors ruining the splendor of the scenery. Even with its remoteness and the fact that it sits in a less commercialized area, one will realize that it lacks the usual equipment and amenities that sweeten most tourist attractions, such as fountains, maps, waiting benches, toilets, restaurants, and many more. It will not especially bother you because the island’s size allows for a complete tour within one hour; however, it is manageable to carry out preparations so that you are not so affected by it lacking some of its amenities.

                   The journey in the boat over Vembanad Lake is captivating, as well as strolling around the island. If luck is on your side, and you’re at the place at the right time of the right season, you’ll be feasting on the sounds of the many thousands of birds. This, without a doubt, makes it one of the tourist attractions in Alleppey.

 Working hours: 6 AM - 6 PM

 Ticket Price: Free Entry.

Vembanad Lake

                    Alappuzha tourist spots for travelers worldwide include this place among the compulsory places to visit. Among the many lakes in the state of Kerala, Vembanad Lake holds the record for being the biggest and is also regarded as one of the largest lakes in India. Numerous canals discharge water into the lake at different intervals of its broad stretch. Being a long lake, it passes through many districts of Kerala and has different names in every district, such as Punnamada Lake in Kuttanad and Kochi Lake in Kochi. Several thousands of small islands mark the length of this lake. Boating in this lake is a component of any backwater tour taken through Kerala. The Kumarakom Tourist Village offers you some of the best houseboat cruises and holiday packages to have the best boating experience in the backwaters during your trip. The lake holds within itself a vast number of exciting possibilities.

Ambalapuzha Temple

                    Those who seek an epicurean delight would find the Amabalapuzha temple mystic and entrancing. Interestingly, this particular shrine is the first-dated temple dedicated to the cult of Krishna in the state of Kerala and possibly the whole of India. The temple exudes such a beautiful atmosphere that it is easy to understand why one would want to sit there for hours without getting bored. This is another reason why the Ambalapuzha Temple is a popular tourist site. And it merits the fame it has accomplished. The inner sanctum is rich with Sri Krishna paintings and Lord Vishnu's varied incarnations. A big mandapam is also nearby, and it's just the right place to sit and relish the atmosphere of the temple. This temple is also nicknamed 'Dwarka of the South' because it occupies a prominent position in the Vaishnava culture, which pays the utmost respect to this place. During the temple visit, one should try or at least taste the sweet milk porridge- Palpayasam. This wonderful prasad, liked by the visitors, is one of the most effective temple attractions. There is a festival celebrated every year around March and April, attracting many people to that location.

CHAMPAKULAM

                        Champakulam is one such village with its own charm. It is situated on the banks of the Pampa River in the Alappuzha district, a region with picturesque scenery owing to the expanses of cultivated rice and coconut fields that surround it. The precinct has historical prominence; this is the venue of the oldest tradition of the state, the Champakulam moolam boat race. Champakulam, among all its other merits, also appeals to one's sense of sightseeing. The famous church in India, the Champakulam Church, is also situated here. This church has been very popular tourist-wise and has endured many changes over the years that have further added to its cultural significance. Also, somewhere in this area, a workshop produces wooden carved images of the Lord Jesus Christ and sells them across different countries. .

Mannarasala Temple

                    Alleppey offers this site, amongst other things. In Kerala, the Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple, as its name indicates, is a temple that is dedicated to serpent worship. It is indeed a place of worship for the priest and followers of Nagaraja-Jayangan, the Serpent God in Hindu Mythology. The Mannarasala Temple is famed as the largest within the State of Kerala and is believed to be a very strong place of worship. Most snake temples are usually located deep inside forests, and Mannarasala is no exception. Located in the heart of the wooded hollow, it has not stopped devotees. The temple sees a lot of traffic daily; people who come to the temple ostensibly to worship. Some women come here to pray for a child, as all women want babies. Then, the baby is taken to the temple, where the felicitation ceremony for the powers of Nagaraja is performed after fulfilling the wish. Paintings of Snakes: There are some paintings inside the temple of snakes. It is one of the important pilgrimage places that visiting travelers come to see; besides that, it gives an idea about the diversity of the culture and traditions of Kerala.

Time: 5 am to 12 pm on all days except Sunday, when it is 1 pm. 5.30 am to 7.30 pm

Entry Fee: Free.

Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race

•                        Held in the memory of Jawaharlal Nehru, this is like no other boat racing activity you have ever seen. Popularly known as Vallam Kali, the Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race is an annual competition held every August on a part of Lake Vembanad. One of the cultural highlights of the state, planning your visit to it accordingly if you desire to see and experience this boat race would be easy. The number of participants in this boat racing event is at least 100, mostly comprised of fishermen rowing along and singing at the top of their lulungsoice. It is wonderful to watch boats row past in front of you as you stand on the shores of the lake.

                 If you feel like looking for some secluded, quiet spot to watch the race along the shores of the lake, you might find your favorite hideout. Otherwise, you can stay within the bamboo stands, especially to watch the race.

 Entry fee: Nil.

 Timings: Annually in August of each year

Mullakal Bhagvathy Temple

                    Can you imagine a century-old architecture nestled in the most splendid location of Alleppey? If yes, then that is Mullakkal Bhagavathy temple for you. It attracts everyone, from the faith, architects, street photographers, seekers, and travelers. The temple is over 500 years old and proudly presents the idol of Goddess Bhagavathy at a height of 20 feet inside the temple. Alleppey has this place as one of the best tourist attractions. In the innermost sanctuary of this temple, only upper-half-dressed men are permitted. Moreover, you can get to understand the rich culture of Alleppey by experiencing the in-house Thaipooya Kavadi festival in this temple.

Entry Fee: Free

Timing: Morning Hours- 4.30 AM to 10 AM

Every evening: 5 PM - 8 PM

Chavara bhawan

                        A pilgrim's progress to any place is considered complete if he visits the holy place where he had resided, in the ancestral home of St. Kuriakose Elias Chavara. Chavara Bhavan, one of Alleppey's famous tourist attractions, is selfless in its mission of serving the people. The resting place of Chavara is also sought after for numerous reasons, including a sea of green paddy fields and serene backwaters of Kerala located in Alleppey. It was constructed around 1805, and in more than two centuries of its existence, it has served the advancement of humanity. It is in a picturesque Kainakary villa, a Thailand-locked key island. Hence, the Bhawan can only be reached by water.

Entry Cost: Free of charge.

Visiting Hours: Between 7 AM to 4.30 PM

kayamkulam lake

                    Originally, Kayamkulam Lake was just that—a lake—before the authorities decided to open the bar that separated it from the Arabian Sea to construct a fishing harbor. Consequently, it is a lagoon now. This area is very active with fishing, racing, and other tourism-related activities. The aquatic resources of this lagoon are economically viable, which explains the popularity of the place as a fishing area. Apart from fish, several birds also find the places adjacent to the waterbody quite appealing. There are many zones of activities to expect in this place. One can use the Cycling Track or the Recreation Room, have lunch in the floating restaurant, or go to the Tsunami Museum or the Adventure Zone.

                    A few more options comprise structures like a Boardwalk, View Point, Landscaping, Yard lighting, Houseboat Jetty, and a canal for boats; in brief, everything is there for enjoyment. Also, here occurs a well-known contest of boat races called the Kayamkulam Boat Race. Witnessing the large, endless expanse of waves continuously forming and crashing will be something one would cherish for a very long time.

Vijaya Beach Park

                    Nothing can beat a trip to Kerala, but for it to be full, you should visit at least one of the beaches there. When looking for beach locations in Alleppey, Vijaya Beach Park is the place to head to. This is a kids’ play area built on Alappuzha Beach, which the Kerala Municipal Board maintains. Several entertainment activities and many other facilities help one enjoy the beach experience more. If you are with kids, let them spend time on the trains, slides, and swings set up especially for them. There are rides for adults, too. Boating facilities here are also excellent. Many cultural programs are also taken up for the advantage of tourists, and there are some entertaining events in which you can participate.

                    There is even a video game area in the park where your little ones can have fun. Although this beach park feels quite commercial, it still has something in store for those who do not like rides and games. You can always come here, hire a bike, and then head off alone to discover the rest of the beach, which is far quieter than the area inside Vijaya Beach Park. Something for everyone is guaranteed to make it the most convenient and fun destination.

Timings: 3 PM - 8 PM. For all older than 12,

Entry fees :it costs at least the minimum entry card of INR 150, and then little children are allowed free entry.

Andhakaranazhi Beach

                    The free-spirited, uncharted, and unpolluted beaches are very inviting. Andhakaranazhi Beach is one of the few Alappuzha sightseeing places that remains pleasant all year round. Virgin, serene, unreal, or breathtaking—no word really compliments the unseizable horizon of Andhakaranazhi enough.The beach lies hidden on the road connecting Alleppey to Cochin at a central point between the two cities. One portion focuses on soft sand, while the remaining focuses on medium boulders and rocks. The sunset hours here are the best as the curse of the sky turns crimson, red, peach, orange, and all the colors in between, with the sea shimmering like a bride. The coast has police and guards watching it every time. Swimming is not a highly celebrated activity here, but one can try to soak in for some time.

Thumpoly Beach

                    The golden sand of Thumpoly Beach and the lush green palm trees along it create an ideal hideaway from the world, away from everything plaguing modern lives. Explore all that Kerala has to offer, rejoice in a clean, pristine Indian Ocean against clear blue skies, with breathtaking views from all directions. A beach is fun and offers all the privacy one requires; having a picnic with the whole family is okay. When one's friends travel over, at times, it's nice to get drenched, too. It's fun here! Make the best of your vacation at Thumpoly.

Timings :All day.

Admission fee :free.

Punnamada Lake

                    A place like Punnamada seems to forget all problems in life amidst nature's sheer magnificence. Groves of areca nut trees encircle the look, and the air seems purer than anywhere else. Pollution-free environs help freshen up the mind and soul. The beautiful views become a balm for the tired soul, and the picture of boats sailing is something to be spellbound about. You can book a houseboat to enjoy all that Punnamada offers or take a luxurious cruise if you love traveling in style. This lake is just the right balm to Calm your racing mind and Sorrowful spirit.

 Time: 10 am to 6 pm.

Admission Fee: Free.

punnapra beach

                    Excluding the thriving backwaters, Alleppey is known for the attractive yet less-explored Punnapra village. If it is a beach you fancy and would prefer to be away from the crowd, Punnapra Beach is beautiful as it has a soothing tropical setting. It has elegantly curved palm trees surrounding the beach, all of which, in turn, get blown by the passive winds. Every corner of the beach has a unique and breathtaking view of nature, making it the perfect spot for all lovers and couples on vacation. Walk on the powdery soft sand over the beach, play with the clear blossoming sea, or bask in the sun lying on the sand. Get pampered with Ayurvedic treatment under the skies lit by the moon and take back memories you will treasure on your vacation. Location: Punnapra in Kerala state.

Entry Fee: Free.

Timing: All day.

Revi Karunakaran Museum

                    If you visit the Revi Karunakaran Museum, you will feel that you have gone to another dimension. Besides this main attraction, there is a Kerala room, where the intention was to present to the public the best of the state's art and culture. Marble and crystals are a big architectural attraction.This is more than enough to attract the attention of any art lover- the extensive collection of Tanjore paintings and the mural standing at 250 ft is quite an interesting work. You can see innumerable artworks, pictures, and well-presented facts and figures and wish to stay in the museum forever, exploring every detail.

Operational hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on all days except Mondays.

Ticket price: Rs. 100 per person.

Thottapally beach

                    Thottapally beach is one of Alleppey's most unique and interesting places to travel to due to its different beaches. The dust here is black because it is rich in zirconia. This is one of many reasons tourist camps have become a common sight annually. Some activities include watching the beautiful orange sunsets on the blue sea with one’s partner, taking pleasant strolls along the beach, or splashing some water while enjoying a packed lunch with the family. Some adjacent places of interest are present, and with the excellent view of several tall palm trees and the untouched nature surrounding the area, one can easily find pleasure just spending the afternoon in Thottappally Beach.

Timings: Open throughout.

Entry fee: No charge.

Chettikulangara Devi Temple

                    Begin your journey of devotion, spirituality, and faith at one of the tourist hotspots in Alappuzha - visit the Chettikulangara Devi Temple. It is among the best temples in the universe and the largest and most populous temple in the state of Kerala. If you are a Hindu devotee, you will visit the temple and its surroundings. In addition, temple aesthetics are mesmerizing in their own right; the embellishment is elegant and sophisticated but not overdone, and gentle and peaceful silence is around. Experiencing the sound of sacred utterances and the ringing of hundreds of gongs during the ritual is quite enthralling. 

Hours of Operation: 5 am - 11 pm, 5 pm - 8 pm, all days of the week. Entrance fee: No Charge. There are other services within the temple, the price of which varies from INR 12 to INR 1350.

 Entry fee: No charge.