Alappuzha is a dream destination for many – with its relaxed backwaters, clean beaches, and fascinating heritage. If you too are keen on traveling to Alappuzha but not sure how to reach, what to see, and other details about this beautiful city, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading this travel guide to Alappuzha for the best recommendations in terms of tourist sites, food, stay, and more.
How To Reach Alappuzha?
Before glancing through the travel guide to Alappuzha, it is essential to know how to reach Alappuzha.
Luckily, Alappuzha is well-connected to most cities and towns in Kerala and also to other major cities in India. Here’s how to reach Alappuzha by air, rail, and road:
By Air
Alappuzha does not have its own airport, but luckily it is located close to one of Kerala’s four international airports, Cochin International Airport. Alappuzha is located roughly 80 to 83 km away from Cochin International Airport. The airport is well connected to most major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Kolkata as well as to many international destinations like Sri Lanka, Dubai, and more.
From the airport, you can easily find cabs and buses to reach Alappuzha.
By Rail
Though the city does not have its own airport, it does have its own railway station. The Alappuzha Railway Station serves the city and is well connected to most railway stations in Kerala. There are multiple daily trains and overnight trains from nearby cities in Kerala to Alappuzha.
Cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, and Kolkata are also well connected to Alappuzha by train. From the railway station, you can easily find rickshaws, cabs, and buses to reach your hotel in Alappuzha.
By Road
By road, Alappuzha is well connected to most cities and towns in Kerala. Through an extensive network of highways, Alappuzha enjoys good connectivity not only with places in Kerala but also outside the state. One can easily find overnight sleeper buses and cabs from nearby cities as well as the state-run KSRTC buses for reaching Alappuzha.
Understanding Alappuzha’s Climate
Located along Kerala’s coastline, Alappuzha experiences a tropical climate with warm temperatures and high humidity throughout the year. The town has three distinct seasons:
- Winter (October to February): Temperatures range between 22°C and 30°C, offering cool mornings and pleasant evenings.
- Summer (March to May): Temperatures generally vary from 27°C to 35°C, with hot and humid afternoons.
- Monsoon (June to September): Temperatures remain between 24°C and 30°C, accompanied by moderate to heavy rainfall.
Since many of Alappuzha’s attractions involve outdoor activities like houseboat cruises, kayaking, exploring beaches, and village walks, the weather plays an important role in planning your trip.
October To February: The Best Time To Visit Alappuzha
If you’re visiting Alappuzha, the best time to visit Alappuzha is between October and February. The southwest monsoon brings with it immense rainfall, and after the monsoon season withdraws, the backwaters are brimming, ready to welcome tourists. The weather becomes comfortable for outdoor activities.
This is the perfect season for cruising through the Alleppey backwaters, relaxing at Alappuzha Beach, visiting Marari Beach, or exploring nearby villages. During this time, expect larger crowds as it is the peak tourist season in Alappuzha.
Houseboat stays are particularly enjoyable during these months thanks to the pleasant temperatures and clear skies. Since this is the peak tourist season, it is advisable to book hotels, resorts, and houseboats well in advance.
June To September: The Next Best Season To Visit Alappuzha
A travel guide to Alappuzha is incomplete without knowing the best season to visit this destination. If you love monsoons more than winter, or are willing to experience Kerala’s monsoon, you’ll enjoy your time in Alappuzha between June and September. The southwest monsoon is at its peak, and the weather turns cool, cloudy, and cozy.
Daytime showers are frequent, and on some days, rain might get intense. The monsoon season is generally an off-season or a season of fewer tourists than the peak season. Many houseboat operators offer services at lower prices than usual. While houseboats may be operational during this season, access to backwaters might be temporarily suspended during extremely heavy rainfall and turbulent seas.
Where To Stay In Alappuzha?
The best place to stay depends entirely on the kind of holiday you’re planning. In this travel guide to Alappuzha, let’s now take a look at the best places to stay in this city.
If you’re going to Alappuzha mainly for the houseboats, staying near the Alappuzha Boat Jetty or Punnamada Lake is your best bet. If you love the beaches, you can choose to stay near Alappuzha Beach or Marari Beach. If you’re choosing convenience and planning to explore more of Kerala, staying near Alappuzha Railway Station can be the best choice.
For those seeking peaceful village life and scenic backwaters, Kuttanad and the Vembanad Lake region offer an unforgettable Kerala experience.
Which Area Is Best For You?
Here’s a quick summary to help you choose where to stay in Alappuzha. For a more detailed guide on Alappuzha accommodations, read our Where to Stay in Alappuzha Guide.
Experience | Recommended Place |
| Houseboat experience | Alappuzha Boat Jetty, Vembanad Lake, or Punnamada Lake |
| Beach holiday | Alappuzha Beach, Punnapra Beach, or Marari Beach |
| Luxury resorts and wellness retreats | Vembanad Lake |
| Budget accommodation | Alleppey Railway Station |
| Village life & backwaters | Kuttanad |
| Romantic getaway | Vembanad Lake or Marari Beach |
| Family vacation | Alappuzha Beach or Boat Jetty |
Top 7 Places To Visit In Alappuzha
1. Alappuzha Backwaters
No visit to Alappuzha is complete without experiencing its world-famous backwaters. This interconnected network of canals, lakes, small streams, and lagoons forms the heart of Alleppey tourism. And the best way to explore these stunning backwaters? Board a traditional Kerala houseboat. There are houseboats available for tourists with varying budgets, from luxury overnight cruises to affordable daytime cruises.
2. Alappuzha Beach
Alappuzha Beach is located quite close to the city center and the Alappuzha Railway Station. The historic pier stretches into the vast Arabian Sea, and the beach is lively during evening hours with food stalls and small shops. If you love stunning sunsets and a good hangout spot offering panoramic views of the sea, Alappuzha Beach is a must-visit.
3. Vembanad Lake
Vembanad holds the title for being the largest lake in Kerala. It stretches across several districts and is home to numerous big and small islands. The lake is home to diverse wildlife, including varied species of birds and animals. Here, you can enjoy various activities like boating, birdwatching, daytime cruises, and lakeside walks. It has a number of lakefront properties as well as houseboats where you can stay and enjoy beautiful views.
4. Marari Beach
Marari Beach is located about 11 km away from Alappuzha and is among the cleanest and most pristine beaches in Kerala. Unlike commercial beaches, Marari retains its rustic charm. Visitors can relax under swaying coconut palms, enjoy fresh seafood, or simply spend the day listening to the waves. It’s among the best places to visit in Alappuzha for couples seeking privacy and relaxation.
5. Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple
The Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple is one of the holiest temples in Kerala, renowned for its traditional Kerala architecture and religious significance. It is known for its iconic sweet milk pudding called Palpayasam, which attracts devotees from across the country. Visitors interested in history and architecture will enjoy visiting the temple, thanks to its beautiful architecture, peaceful surroundings, and spiritual atmosphere.
6. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. Its location near the Vembanad Lake makes it home to numerous migratory birds, including herons, kingfishers, egrets, cormorants, and Siberian visitors during winter. The Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, families, bird photographers, and nature lovers.
7. Krishnapuram Palace
Located about 45 km from Alappuzha, Krishnapuram Palace is a great destination for a short road trip from the city. It was built during the 18th century and is known for its traditional Kerala-style architecture. The magnificent mural titled Gajendra Moksham is one of the largest mural paintings in Kerala. The Palace Museum also houses sculptures, coins, and archaeological artifacts, making it an enjoyable place for history lovers.
Places To Visit In Alappuzha In 1 Day
If you’re short on time and keen on exploring Alappuzha in one day, these are the places that must be on your ‘one-day sightseeing in Alappuzha itinerary.’
- Alappuzha Backwaters
- Houseboat or Shikara ride
- Lunch on the boat
- Visit Ambalapuzha Temple
- Alappuzha Beach
- Sunset at the historic pier
Also Read: 9 Fun Things To Do In Alappuzha For A Memorable Vacation
Places To Visit In Alappuzha In 2 Days
In two days, you can explore beyond the city. Two days in Alappuzha can allow you to explore more of the city, along with a few attractions nearby:
Day 1
- Houseboat cruise
- Vembanad Lake
- Alappuzha Beach
Day 2
- Marari Beach
- Pathiramanal Island
- Revi Karunakaran Memorial Museum
- Local markets & sightseeing
Places To Visit Near Alappuzha
If you plan to extend your trip, these are the destinations to consider:
- Kumarakom
- Krishnapuram Palace
- Kottayam
- Cherthala
- Mannarasala Temple
- Arthunkal Church
Here’s our full list of the best places to visit in Alappuzha.
Budget Breakdown For Visiting Alappuzha
Alappuzha, also called ‘Venice of the East,’ might seem like a costly place to explore. However, the city is ideal for tourists of all kinds, whether you’re a budget traveler or someone who likes luxury travel. In this travel guide to Alappuzha, we’re sharing with you an approximate budget breakdown for tourists planning a 3 days 2 nights Alappuzha trip per person.
| Experience/Service | Budget traveler | Luxury traveler |
| Flight/train/bus to Alappuzha | INR 500-800 onwards for an overnight bus (flight tariff might vary depending on your home city) | |
| Internal transport | INR 500 to INR 800 | INR 800 to INR 2500 |
| Food | INR 2500 to INR 3500 | INR 3500 to INR 5000 |
| Hotel accommodation | INR 700 to INR 1200 per day | INR 2500 onwards per day |
| Entry fees and tourist sightseeing | INR 500 to INR 1000 per day | INR 500 to INR 2500 per day |
| Shopping and misc expenses | INR 500 to INR 1000 per day | INR 1000 onwards per day |
Travel Tips For Visiting Alappuzha
- Book your tickets well in advance as flight, train, and hotel tariffs can rise during peak tourist season.
- Start your day early to enjoy the backwaters before the midday heat and crowds set in.
- Carry light cotton clothing, sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent for a comfortable trip.
- Respect the fragile backwater ecosystem by avoiding littering and using reusable water bottles.
- Keep some cash handy, as smaller shops and local vendors may not accept digital payments.
Summing Up
This travel guide to Alappuzha will help you plan your Alleppey trip easily. From how to reach Alappuzha, the best season to visit Alappuzha, the best hotels, and the best places to visit, we’ve shared with you essential details for planning that dream Alappuzha trip.
