About Alleppey Backwaters
Prime Day & Hours: Sunrise and sunsets during weekends
Suggested Duration: 3 - 4 hours
Tickets: Free entry
Nearest Railway Station: Alappuzha Railway Station, about 8.6 KM
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport, about 85 KM
Nearest Bus Stop: Alappuzha Bus Stop, about 5.2 KM
Alleppey is a picturesque town in Kerala, situated on the banks of the Vembanad Lake. It is part of a larger network of backwaters from Alappuzha to Kochi. This beautiful destination is often referred to as the "Venice of the East" due to its serene waterways and lush surroundings. Its scenic atmosphere and natural surroundings make this place one of the best places to visit in Alleppey.
Alleppey is famous for its beautiful backwaters, which are made up of interconnected canals, rivers, and lagoons. The area is adorned with coconut trees and vibrant paddy fields, creating a tranquil and beautiful setting. Visitors can explore the backwaters through houseboat cruising or kayaking. Experience the local culture and witness the unique ecosystem where freshwater meets the sea.
Alleppey offers an unforgettable experience, with its Ayurvedic spas, traditional boat races, and elegant natural beauty.
Alleppey Backwaters Highlights
• Visit Alleppey Backwaters, one of the most popular and iconic backwater destinations in India, often referred to as the "Venice of the East".
• Get a chance to stay overnight on a Kettuvallam, a traditional houseboat with wooden interiors, private decks, and sunrise views, making a dream come true.
• Sample authentic Kerala meals, cooked fresh on the boat with local spices, served hot on banana leaves for an immersive experience.
How To Reach Alleppey Backwaters
By car/taxi: The attraction is about 5 km away from Alleppey city centre and you can easily reach there in approximately 15 minutes via Punnamada Thondankulangara Road.
Best Time To Visit Alleppey Backwaters
Peak Season (October to March)
- Weather Insights: Pleasant and comfortable temperatures, minimal rainfall, ideal for houseboat cruises.
- Things to Do: Houseboat stays, village tours, birdwatching, and exploring beaches.
Moderate Season (June to September)
- Weather Insights: Transition periods with occasional showers, still relatively comfortable, fewer crowds.
- Things to Do: Ayurveda treatments, canoe trips, temple visits, and enjoying the lush greenery.
Low Season (April to June)
- Weather Insights: Hot and humid, heavy monsoon rains, potential for rough backwater conditions.
- Things to Do: Enjoying the vibrant monsoon greenery, experiencing ayurvedic monsoon treatments, and budget travel.
Alleppey Backwaters Other Essential Information
Know before you go
- Make sure to wear a hat and sunscreen to keep yourself protected from the sunlight.
- The backwaters are
- Be safe at the shore, if visiting Alleppey beach, as the waves are strong sometimes, making it unsafe for kids.
- Do not worry about cleanliness, as the beach is clean and you will witness a clean sea breeze.
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Witness famous boat races
Alappuzha is famous for boat races, especially the Nehru Trophy Boat Race, which is held annually in August. This event has a long sleek boat which is sailed by teams, and this competition attracts many visitors to witness all over the world.
Experience canoeing and kayaking
Experience canoeing and kayaking through the backwaters. There are small vessels that allow visitors to sail through narrow canals and waterways. Along with this, travellers can also explore hidden gems through the waterway they are sailing on.
Go on village tours
Village tours are available for visitors who want to explore the local traditions and practices of Alappuzha Village. You can interact with the villagers and observe coir making, a process of extracting fibers from coconut husks for various product applications. Additionally, watch the process of extracting sap from various palm trees known as toddy tapping or paddy cultivation.
Tourism Board Alliances
Alleppey Backwaters FAQs
What are the Alappuzha backwaters?
The Alappuzha backwaters are a network of interconnected lakes, canals, and rivers in the state of Kerala, India. They are renowned for their scenic beauty, houseboats, and unique ecosystem. Backwaters are covered with trees and lush green forests on both sides, with clean water flowing through paddy fields.
What are the houseboats at the Alappuzha backwaters like?
Houseboats (Kettuvallams) are traditional rice barges converted into comfortable floating accommodations. They typically include bedrooms, a living area, a kitchen, and a deck. They come in various sizes and luxury levels.
How long are the houseboat cruises, and what kind of food is served?
Cruises can range from a few hours to overnight stays, and even multi-day trips. However, overnight cruises are the most popular to experience the backwaters fully. The houseboats serve traditional Kerala cuisine, including seafood, which is usually served. Vegetarian options are also available.
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