Alleppey, Kerala – Best Travelling Destination

Alleppey, Kerala, India

Alleppey means “Place of the Snake” in Malayalam. This is a town located around 130km from the seashore, which is 200km away from Cochin. It is located in the southwest part of Kerala. Alleppey (aka Alappuzha) is famous for backwater tourism and a pleasant climate, surrounded by green tea plantations and spice gardens. The backwater cruise routes are a perfect choice for those who want to enjoy real backwaters experience but with some interesting sightseeing as well.

Backwater

Backwaters: The backwaters of Alleppey are one of its most famous attractions. The town is situated on the edge of Vembanad Lake, which is the largest lake in Kerala. The backwaters offer a serene and peaceful experience, with beautiful views of the surrounding greenery. You can take a leisurely boat ride or a houseboat tour to explore the backwaters.

Beaches: Alleppey is home to several beautiful beaches, including Alappuzha Beach, Marari Beach, and Andhakaranazhi Beach. These beaches offer a great opportunity to relax and unwind, with pristine sands and clear blue waters.

Houseboat Kerala, India

Houseboats: Alleppey is known for its traditional houseboats, which offer a unique way to explore the backwaters. These houseboats come equipped with all modern amenities, including bedrooms, bathrooms, and kitchens, and are a great way to experience the local culture and cuisine.

Ayurvedic Spa: Alleppey is also famous for its Ayurvedic spas, which offer traditional Indian treatments for rejuvenation and relaxation. These spas use natural herbs and oils to provide a holistic healing experience.

Back Water Boat Race -- Nehru Trophy copy

Nehru Trophy Boat Race: The Nehru Trophy Boat Race is an annual event held in Alleppey, which attracts thousands of visitors from around the world. The boat race is held on the second Saturday of August every year and is a spectacular display of traditional Indian boats and rowing techniques.

Overall, Alleppey is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Kerala. Its scenic backwaters, beautiful beaches, and rich cultural heritage make it a unique and unforgettable experience.

Best time to visit Alleppey, Kerala

The best time to visit Alleppey, Kerala, is from November to February, which is the winter season. During this time, the weather is pleasant with temperatures ranging from 20 to 32 degrees Celsius, and there is little to no rainfall. This makes it ideal for sightseeing and enjoying outdoor activities.

Another good time to visit Alleppey is during the monsoon season, which lasts from June to September. The backwaters and lakes are full of water during this time, making it a great time for a houseboat cruise. However, be prepared for heavy rainfall and occasional flooding.

The summer season, which lasts from March to May, should be avoided as the temperatures can be quite high, making it uncomfortable to explore the town and the surrounding areas.

In summary, the best time to visit Alleppey is from November to February when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. However, if you want to experience the backwaters in full flow, the monsoon season from June to September can also be a good option.

Here are some ways to reach Alleppey:

1. By Air: The nearest airport to Alleppey is the Cochin International Airport, which is located about 75 km away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Alleppey. The journey takes about 2 hours.
   
   
2. By Train: Alleppey has its own railway station, which is well-connected to major cities in India like Mumbai, Chennai, and Bangalore. From the railway station, you can take a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to reach your destination.
   
   
3. By Bus: Alleppey is well-connected by road, and there are several bus services that operate from major cities in Kerala and neighboring states. KSRTC (Kerala State Road Transport Corporation) and private operators run regular bus services to and from Alleppey.
   
   
4. By Car: You can also hire a taxi or a self-drive car to reach Alleppey. The roads are well-maintained, and the journey offers scenic views of the countryside.

Once you reach Alleppey, you can explore the town and the surrounding areas by hiring a taxi or an auto-rickshaw. Houseboats are also a popular way to explore the backwaters of Alleppey, and you can hire them from various locations in the town.

The budget required to visit Alleppey, Kerala

The budget required to visit Alleppey, Kerala, depends on several factors, including the mode of transportation, accommodation, food, and activities. Here's a general breakdown of the costs:

Transportation: The cost of transportation to Alleppey depends on the mode of transport you choose. If you're flying in, the cost of airfare can vary depending on your location and the season. If you're taking the train, the cost of a ticket depends on the class of travel and the distance. A bus ticket is generally the cheapest option. Overall, transportation costs can range from INR 500-5000 (7-70 USD) per person.

Accommodation: Accommodation costs in Alleppey can vary depending on the type of accommodation you choose. Budget guesthouses and homestays can cost anywhere between INR 500-1500 (7-20 USD) per night, while mid-range hotels can cost between INR 2000-4000 (28-55 USD) per night. If you're looking for luxury accommodation, prices can go up to INR 10000 (140 USD) or more per night.

Food: Food is relatively inexpensive in Alleppey, and you can find a variety of options to suit different budgets. Street food and local restaurants offer affordable options, while mid-range and high-end restaurants can cost between INR 500-1500 (7-20 USD) per meal.

Activities: There are several activities to do in Alleppey, such as boat rides, backwater cruises, and Ayurvedic massages. The cost of activities can vary depending on the provider and the duration. A houseboat tour can cost between INR 5000-10000 (70-140 USD) per night, while an Ayurvedic massage can cost between INR 1500-3000 (20-40 USD) per session.

Overall, the budget for a trip to Alleppey can range from INR 5000-15000 (70-210 USD) per person per day, depending on your travel style and preferences.