Alappuzha

Discover Alappuzha: A Tranquil Escape in Kerala

Alappuzha, also known as Alleppey, is a captivating destination in Kerala that offers a serene mix of natural beauty, rich heritage, and a touch of coastal charm. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or someone in search of relaxation, Alappuzha has something unique for you. Let’s dive into the must-visit places in this beautiful town.

🌊 Alleppey Beach: Where Serenity Meets the Sea

The Alleppey Beach is a picturesque retreat for those who love the combination of golden sands, gentle waves, and a cool breeze. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely walk, a peaceful sunset, or simply unwinding by the water. The old lighthouse standing tall adds a historical touch to this tranquil beach, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.

Alleppey Beach

  • Ticket Price: Free entry
  • Best Time to Visit: 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM
  • Special Tip: For a panoramic view, you can climb to the top of the Alappuzha Lighthouse, which has a small entry fee.

🏰 Krishnapuram Palace: A Glimpse into Kerala’s Royal Past

The Krishnapuram Palace, a stunning piece of Kerala’s architectural heritage, is located just 12 km from Alappuzha. This palace, built in the traditional Kerala style, boasts beautiful murals, intricate woodwork, and a large pond. It also houses a museum displaying artifacts from Kerala’s royal era. The palace’s serene surroundings and historical significance make it a must-visit for anyone keen on exploring Kerala’s royal legacy.

Krishnapuram Palace
  • Ticket Price: ₹20 (Indian), ₹100 (Foreigners)
  • Visiting Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)

🏝️ Pathiramanal Island: A Hidden Paradise

For nature enthusiasts and bird watchers, Pathiramanal Island is a hidden gem. Situated on the Vembanad Lake, this small but beautiful island is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna. It’s especially famous for migratory birds, making it a perfect spot for birdwatching. You can take a boat ride to the island and immerse yourself in the serene environment, surrounded by lush greenery and tranquil waters.

Pathiramanal Island
  • Ticket Price: ₹100 for a boat ride
  • Boat Timings: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

🌊 Vembanad Lake: The Heart of Alappuzha

The Vembanad Lake is not just a scenic beauty but the lifeline of Alappuzha’s backwater tourism. This vast, tranquil lake stretches over 230 square kilometers and is one of the largest freshwater lakes in India. Known for its houseboat cruises, the lake offers visitors a chance to experience Kerala's unique backwater life. The surrounding area is dotted with picturesque villages, lush paddy fields, and coconut groves, making it a perfect spot for a peaceful retreat.

Boat House



  • Ticket Price for Houseboats: ₹5,000 - ₹12,000 per night (depending on the type of houseboat)
  • Houseboat Timing: 12:00 PM – 9:00 AM (Overnight stay)
  • Best Time to Visit: October to March for the best houseboat experience

🗼 Alappuzha Lighthouse: A Beacon of History and Scenic Views

The Alappuzha Lighthouse is a historical landmark standing proudly at the entrance to the Alappuzha Beach. Built in 1862, this lighthouse is one of the oldest in India and offers panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the surrounding coastal areas. The lighthouse is still operational, guiding ships safely along the coastline. Visitors can climb to the top for breathtaking views of the sea, the town, and the backwaters stretching towards the horizon.

    Light House
    • Ticket Price: ₹10 (Indian), ₹50 (Foreigners)
    • Visiting Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

    🕉️ Karumadi Kuttan: A Sacred Heritage

    The Karumadi Kuttan is a famous Buddha statue located near Karumadi village, about 15 km from Alappuzha. The statue, which dates back to the 9th century, is a unique and significant historical and spiritual site. The statue is made of black granite and is believed to have been part of an ancient Buddhist monastery. It is one of the few remaining Buddhist statues in Kerala and a symbol of the region’s diverse religious history. The serene atmosphere and surrounding rural beauty make Karumadi Kuttan a must-visit spot for those interested in spirituality and history.

    Karumadi Kuttan
    • Ticket Price: Free
    • Best Time to Visit: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM

    How to Reach Alappuzha

    By Train:
    The easiest way to reach Alappuzha is by train. Alappuzha Railway Station is well-connected to major cities across India. You can check train schedules through the Where Is My Train app for real-time information.

    By Air:
    If you’re traveling by air, the nearest airports to Alappuzha are Coimbatore, Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, and Kozhikode. The airports in Coimbatore and Thiruvananthapuram offer the highest frequency of flights, which you can check using the MakeMyTrip app. After landing, you can either take a train or travel by road to Alappuzha. There are several trains available from major cities to Alappuzha Station.

    Where to Stay in Alappuzha

    Alappuzha offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly stays to luxurious resorts, catering to all types of travelers.

    • Houseboat Stays: For a truly unique experience, staying in a traditional Kerala houseboat on the Vembanad Lake is a must. Many houseboat operators offer overnight cruises with all the modern amenities, letting you enjoy the serenity of Kerala’s backwaters from the comfort of your floating room. Prices for houseboats typically range from ₹5,000 to ₹12,000 per night, depending on the season and type of houseboat.

    • Beach Resorts: For those who want to stay close to the beach, there are several beach resorts in Alappuzha that offer sea views, private beaches, and spa services. Punnappra Beach Resort (₹3,500 to ₹7,000 per night) and Vembanad Lake Resort (₹4,500 to ₹8,500 per night) are popular choices for an idyllic stay.

    • Budget Hotels: Alappuzha also offers budget-friendly hotels for those seeking comfort without breaking the bank. Options like Mango Village Resort (₹1,500 to ₹3,000 per night) and Arcadia Regency (₹2,500 to ₹4,500 per night) offer convenient locations and decent amenities at affordable prices.

    Must-Try Food in Alappuzha and Where to Find Them

    Alappuzha is a food lover’s paradise, especially if you’re keen to taste the flavors of Kerala. Here are a few dishes you must try during your visit and the best places to find them:

    • Kerala Sadya: A traditional Kerala feast served on a banana leaf, featuring rice, sambar, avial, and an assortment of side dishes. Don’t forget to try payasam, a delicious sweet dish that’s part of the meal. You can enjoy Kerala Sadya at Karma Kerala Restaurant or Hotel Raama in Alappuzha.

      Kerala Sadhya

    • Karimeen Pollichathu: A signature Kerala dish made with pearl spot fish marinated in a blend of spices and wrapped in banana leaves, then grilled to perfection. Head to Finishing Point Restaurant or Thaff Restaurant to try this delicacy.

    • Appam with Stew: A fluffy, lacy pancake served with a fragrant vegetable or chicken stew. This dish is a staple in Kerala and perfect for breakfast or dinner. Try it at Café De Alappuzha or The Kayani Restaurant.

    • Prawn Curry: Made with freshly caught prawns and coconut milk, Kerala-style prawn curry is tangy, spicy, and incredibly flavorful. Vembanad Restaurant and Chakara Restaurant offer some of the best prawn curry in the area.

    • Banana Chips: Alappuzha is known for its crispy, golden banana chips, which make for an ideal snack. They’re a perfect souvenir to take home as well! You can find fresh banana chips at local stalls and shops like Alappuzha Banana Chips.

    What to Buy in Alappuzha: Souvenirs and Memories

    🥥Kerala Banana Chips

    One of the most iconic snacks in Kerala, banana chips are a must-buy when you're in Alappuzha. Made from fresh, crunchy bananas and fried in coconut oil, they’re crispy, savory, and utterly addictive. You can find these chips everywhere, from local markets to specialized shops. Alappuzha Banana Chips is a popular brand where you can buy these crispy treats.

    • Price: ₹100 - ₹200 per packet
    • Where to Buy: Local stalls, Alappuzha Banana Chips shop, or Kochi’s Lulu Mall for packaging.

    🛍️ Coir Products

    Alappuzha is known as the "Coir Capital of the World," and you can find a wide range of coir products, including mats, rugs, bags, and even coir-based home décor. These eco-friendly products are a perfect way to bring a piece of Kerala's artisanal craft back home.

    • Price: ₹200 - ₹1,500 depending on size and quality
    • Where to Buy: Alappuzha Coir Market or any of the local handicraft shops around the beach area.

    🎨 Handicrafts & Souvenirs

    Alappuzha has a rich tradition of handicrafts, and you’ll find a variety of beautiful wooden sculptures, brass items, and pottery that make for excellent keepsakes. Local artisans create intricate designs reflecting Kerala’s culture, from traditional Kathakali masks to brass elephants and wooden carvings.

    • Price: ₹150 - ₹2,000 depending on the item
    • Where to Buy: Kerala Government Handicrafts Emporium, local shops near Alappuzha Beach and Krishnapuram Palace.

    🌿 Spices

    Kerala is famous for its spice cultivation, and Alappuzha is no exception. You can find a variety of fresh spices such as cardamom, cloves, turmeric, and black pepper at local spice markets. These aromatic spices can add an authentic Kerala flavor to your cooking back home.

    • Price: ₹50 - ₹300 depending on the quantity
    • Where to Buy: Alappuzha Spice Market or at stalls near the train station.

    🍯 Kerala Honey

    Kerala is known for producing natural honey, often sourced from the Western Ghats and the fertile land around the backwaters. The honey here is rich, unprocessed, and full of natural goodness. It’s a perfect souvenir for those who appreciate organic and healthy products.

    • Price: ₹100 - ₹500 depending on quantity
    • Where to Buy: Local markets and Kerala Handicrafts Emporium in Alappuzha.

    🎁 Traditional Kerala Sarees and Mundus

    A beautiful and traditional Kerala saree or mundu makes for a lovely souvenir from your visit to Alappuzha. These traditional garments, woven with love and skill, are made from cotton, silk, or handloom fabric and feature intricate patterns. You’ll find a variety of them, perfect for gifting or wearing on special occasions.

    • Price: ₹1,500 - ₹5,000 depending on the material
    • Where to Buy: Keralashree Handlooms, Alappuzha Handicrafts Emporium, and local markets.

    🌸 Essential Oils and Herbal Products

    Alappuzha offers an array of herbal products and essential oils that are derived from the region’s rich flora. Popular choices include coconut oil, sandalwood oil, rose water, and lemongrass oil, all known for their natural healing properties. These make for great gifts or personal use.

    • Price: ₹100 - ₹1,000 depending on the product
    • Where to Buy: Local shops, Kerala Ayurvedic Emporium, or Alappuzha Ayurveda Center.

    🛒 Shopping Tip:

    Alappuzha has several shopping spots, including Alappuzha Beach Road, Krishnapuram Palace, and local markets where you can find handcrafted items, spices, and much more. Haggling is common in markets, so don’t hesitate to negotiate a good price.

    Wrap-Up: Take Home a Piece of Alappuzha

    Alappuzha offers much more than its scenic beauty and historical attractions—it provides visitors with the chance to take home a piece of Kerala's vibrant culture. From local snacks and spices to handicrafts and handlooms, the souvenirs from Alappuzha will always remind you of this magical destination.

    So, when you visit Alappuzha, make sure you take time to explore the local markets and bring back some of these incredible memories with you!

    🏖️ Why Visit Alappuzha?

    Alappuzha offers a perfect blend of history, culture, nature, and relaxation. Whether you’re exploring ancient palaces, enjoying the backwaters, or unwinding on its pristine beaches, Alappuzha promises a memorable experience. A visit to this charming town will leave you with lasting memories of Kerala’s beauty and heritage.

    So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the coastal haven of Alappuzha, where every corner offers a new discovery! 🌿

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