Alappuzha, also known as Alleppey, is the administrative headquarters of the district of the same name in the state. It is a popular tourist attraction and among the cleanest towns in the country. From backwaters to beaches and from ancient temples to palaces, there are a lot of places to explore in the town. The city also has a lighthouse on its coast that adds to its touristic value. Allapuzha is located just 55 km from Kochi.
How to reach Alappuzha?
The journey time between Kochi and Alappuzha is nearly 1 hour and 17 minutes. It is well connected to all major cities in Kerala. Another way to reach Alappuzha from Kochi is via train.
Where to Stay?
There are a lot of stay options in Alappuzha, depending on your budget. From hostels to hotels and from AirBNB to homestays, there are a lot of stay options in the town.
Malayalam is the language spoken widely across Alappuzha.
Top Alappuzha Tourist Places…
Exploring the Backwaters:
A trip to Kerala is not complete without exploring the mesmerizing backwaters. The best place to explore the backwaters in Kerala is Alappuzha, and the best way to do so is on a houseboat. You can book a houseboat ride, sit back and enjoy the marvelous views of the backwaters. The houseboat ride includes staying and food. What could be better than enjoying the traditional Kerala food while looking at the serene backwaters and the unending greenery.
Alappuzha Beach:
Alappuzha beach is among the most popular tourist attractions in the town. The beach is famous for its mind-blowing beauty and a 150-year-old pier. Dotted with palm trees, the beach is among the most popular beaches in the state. You can take a relaxing walk along the shore, click some breathtaking pictures and enjoy the sunset while enjoying some local snacks.
Krishnapuram Palace:
Suppose you have a history buff in you. In that case, the trip to Alappuzha can’t be complete without a visit to the Krishnapuram Palace. The entry fee for the palace is Rs.10, but you will need to pay an additional Rs. 250 for taking a video camera with you. It is a palace museum located in Kayamkulam. The palace is just 47 km from Alappuzha and was built during the reign of Travancore king Anizham Thirunal Marthanda Varma. The palace has attractive decorations, including mural paintings and architecture. Among the most popular mural paintings in the palace is the ‘Gajendra Moksha,’ which covers an area of nearly 53 square feet.
Also Read, Periyar National Park: Complete guide for nature lovers
Vembanad Lake:
Vembanad Lake is among the most popular water bodies in the town. It is a very popular lagoon located in the district of Alleppey. It is the longest lake in the country and the largest lake in Kerala. The lake is so large that it can be accessed from Kottayam and Kochi. Clean water bodies are a specialty of Kerala, and this one is no different. Surrounded by a vast green cover, the lagoon looks magical. It’s like witnessing nature flourishing without any hindrance.
Marari Beach:
Located nearly 23 km from the city center, Marari Beach is among the greatest delights of the Malabar Coast. It is a serene beach famous for crystal clear water and clean sandy beaches. Marari Beach is a sight to behold. It is a hotspot for fishing activities. You can also grab the opportunity of watching Snake Boat races if you visit the beach in August. For someone who has been seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, Marari Beach is among the best places to visit in the town. The National Geographic Survey has categorized Marari Beach among the top five hammock beaches of the world.
Alappuzha Lighthouse:
Alappuzha Lighthouse is another popular tourist attraction in the town. Located 4 km from the city, the lighthouse faces the Arabian sea coast. It is an 1862 lighthouse that also has a museum preserving old equipment like oil lamps and other historical items. The 30 meters high lighthouse can hold up to 25 people at a time and provides a jaw-dropping 360-degree view of the entire region. Among the key attractions in the lighthouse is its spiral staircase with over 100 wooden steps.
Kayaking:
Indulging in adventure activities is one of the best ways to make your trip more enjoyable. Among the most famous activities to take part in Alappuzha is kayaking. Alappuzha is located on the Laccadive Sea, and that makes it a perfect destination for activities like kayaking. You can enjoy kayaking while having the opportunity of seeing Cormorant and Kingfishers. While kayaking, you’ll paddle your way through tiny canals that will further enhance your experience. The charges for kayaking are Rs. 800 and above, for which you can kayak for up to 4 hours.