Discover the Magic of Alappuzha – A Comprehensive Guide to the Best Places to Visit

An Overview of the Picturesque Town of Alappuzha

• Alappuzha, also known as Alleppey, is a beautiful town located in the southern Indian state of Kerala. Known as the “Venice of the East”, Alappuzha is famous for its backwaters, beaches, canals, lagoons, and houseboats. In this article, we will explore the best places to visit in Alappuzha.

1. Backwaters

• The backwaters of Alappuzha are a network of lagoons and canals that flow into the Arabian Sea.
• The backwaters are one of the main attractions of Alappuzha and are best explored on a houseboat. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing ride on a houseboat and take in the stunning scenery of the backwaters. The backwaters are also home to several species of birds and marine life.

2.Alappuzha Beach

• Alappuzha Beach is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Alappuzha.
• The beach is known for its soft sands, clear waters, and serene atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing stroll on the beach or take a dip in the sea. The beach is also famous for its seafood restaurants that serve delicious seafood dishes.

3.Marari Beach

• Marari Beach is another popular beach in Alappuzha. The beach is known for its quiet and peaceful atmosphere, and is an ideal destination for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
• Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk on the beach, watch the fishermen at work, or take a swim in the sea.

4.Krishnapuram Palace

• Krishnapuram Palace is an ancient palace located in Alappuzha.
• The palace is known for its beautiful architecture and historical significance. Visitors can explore the palace and learn about the rich history and culture of the region. The palace is also home to a museum that houses several ancient artifacts and exhibits.

5.Pathiramanal Island

• Pathiramanal Island is a beautiful island located in the backwaters of Alappuzha.
• The island is known for its natural beauty and is home to several species of birds and marine life. Visitors can take a boat ride to the island and enjoy the serene atmosphere and stunning views.

6.Karumadi Kuttan

• Karumadi Kuttan is a famous ancient statue located in Alappuzha.
• The statue is believed to be of Buddha and is a major attraction for visitors. The statue is made of black granite and is believed to date back to the 10th century.

7.Ambalapuzha Temple

• Ambalapuzha Temple is an ancient temple located in Alappuzha.
• The temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is known for its beautiful architecture and religious significance. Visitors can explore the temple and participate in the various religious rituals and ceremonies.

8.Arthunkal Church

• Arthunkal Church is a famous church located in Alappuzha.
• The church is dedicated to St. Sebastian and is known for its beautiful architecture and religious significance. Visitors can attend the daily mass and participate in the various religious ceremonies.

9.Coir Industry

• Alappuzha is known for its coir industry, which is one of the major sources of livelihood for the locals.
• Visitors can explore the coir factories and learn about the process of making coir products. They can also purchase coir products such as carpets, mats, and bags as souvenirs.

10.Houseboats

• Alappuzha is well known for its gorgeous houseboats, making them a key feature of the town.
• Tourists can rent one and sail around the backwaters, where they can enjoy all sorts of modern facilities for a comfortable and luxurious experience. Travellers can admire the spectacular scenery of the backwaters while onboard a houseboat, and savour some delectable Kerala cuisine as well.

11.Alappuzha Lighthouse

• Alappuzha Lighthouse is a famous lighthouse located in Alappuzha.
• The lighthouse is known for its beautiful architecture and offers stunning views of the surrounding areas. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse and enjoy the panoramic views of the backwaters and the sea.

12.Mannarasala Temple

• Mannarasala Temple is an ancient temple located in Alappuzha.
• People visit the temple to pay homage to the serpent gods and learn about its spiritual importance. They can explore it and take part in its various religious rites & customs.

13.Alleppey Market

• Alleppey Market is a famous market located in Alappuzha. The market is known for its wide variety of spices, handicrafts, and coir products. Visitors can explore the market and purchase souvenirs and gifts for their loved ones.

14.RKK Memorial Museum

• RKK Memorial Museum is a famous museum located in Alappuzha.
• The museum is dedicated to the life and works of Raja Ravi Varma, a famous painter. Visitors can explore the museum and view the various paintings and artifacts related to Raja Ravi Varma.

15.Nehru Trophy Boat Race

•  Nehru Trophy Boat Race is a famous boat race held in Alappuzha every year.
• The boat race is held on the backwaters and is a major tourist attraction. Visitors can witness the boat race and enjoy the festivities and celebrations.

16.Kuttanad

• Kuttanad is a beautiful region located in Alappuzha.
• The region is known for its picturesque villages, paddy fields, and canals. Visitors can take a tour of the region and explore the rural life of the locals.

17.Champakulam Church

•  Champakulam Church is a famous church located in Alappuzha.
• The church is known for its beautiful architecture and religious significance. Visitors can attend the daily mass and participate in the various religious ceremonies.

18.Chavara Bhavan

•  Chavara Bhavan is a famous pilgrim center located in Alappuzha.
• The center is dedicated to the life and works of Saint Kuriakose Elias Chavara. Visitors can explore the center and learn about the religious and cultural heritage of the region.

19.Vembanad Lake

• Vembanad Lake is a famous lake located in Alappuzha.
• The lake is known for its serene atmosphere and stunning views. Visitors can take a boat ride on the lake and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surroundings.

Delicious Local Dishes & Restaurants in Alappuzha

• Alappuzha, or Alleppey as it is popularly known, is an attractive coastal town located in Kerala, India. It’s renowned for its serene backwaters, picturesque beaches and vibrant cultural history.
• One of the highlights of the place are its delicious local delicacies. From traditional delicacies to contemporary fusion cuisine, the restaurants in this town are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Enjoy a wide range of local dishes that will satisfy every food craving.

Let’s take a look at some of the must-try local dishes and restaurants in Alappuzha.

1. Karimeen Pollichathu at  Thaff Restaurant, located on Mullackal Road, is a popular eatery in Alappuzha known for its delicious seafood. One dish that you must try here is the Karimeen Pollichathu, which is a preparation of freshwater fish marinated in spices and wrapped in banana leaf before being cooked over a hot griddle. The result is a mouth-watering dish that is full of flavor.

2. Kappa and Meen Curry at Indian Coffee House is a well-known chain of restaurants in India, and the Alappuzha outlet is a must-visit for those who want to try traditional Kerala food. One dish that you should try here is the Kappa and Meen Curry, which is a preparation of boiled tapioca served with a spicy fish curry. It is a simple yet delicious dish that is sure to leave you wanting more.

3. Appam and Stew at Brother’s Hotel, located on Cullen Road, is a popular eatery in Alappuzha that is known for its delicious South Indian food. One dish that you must try here is the Appam and Stew, which is a fluffy rice pancake served with a vegetable stew. It is a popular breakfast dish in Kerala and is perfect for those who want to start their day with a light and healthy meal.

4. Puttu and Kadala Curry at Hotel Arcadia, located on NH-66, is a popular restaurant in Alappuzha that is known for its authentic Kerala cuisine. One dish that you must try here is the Puttu and Kadala Curry, which is a steamed rice cake served with a spicy black chickpea curry. It is a popular breakfast dish in Kerala and is sure to leave you feeling satisfied.

5. Fish Curry and Rice at  Harbour Restaurant, located on Beach Road, is a popular eatery in Alappuzha that is known for its seafood. One dish that you must try here is the Fish Curry and Rice, which is a preparation of fish cooked in a spicy coconut-based gravy and served with steamed rice. It is a traditional Kerala dish that is sure to leave you feeling satisfied.

Alappuzha is a food lover’s paradise, and the local cuisine is sure to leave you wanting more. Whether you are a seafood lover or prefer vegetarian dishes, Alappuzha has something for everyone. So, the next time you visit this beautiful coastal town, make sure to try out these delicious local dishes at the recommended restaurants.

Where To Stay – Accomodation Options for Your Journey in Alappuzha

When planning a vacation in Alappuzha or Alleppey, Kerala – known for its backwaters, beaches, and cultural heritage – selecting the right accommodation should be among the top priorities. There are plenty of options to choose from, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts.

Let’s take a look at some of the accommodation options for your journey in Alappuzha.

Houseboats

• One of the most unique and popular accommodation options in Alappuzha is a houseboat.

• These are traditional boats that have been converted into floating hotels, offering a unique experience of staying in the middle of the backwaters.

• The houseboats come equipped with comfortable bedrooms, bathrooms, and dining areas, along with a kitchen and a crew that will take care of all your needs. It is a perfect option for those who want to explore the backwaters while enjoying the comfort of a hotel.

Resorts

• Alappuzha is home to several luxury resorts that offer a wide range of amenities and facilities. These resorts are located in scenic locations, offering breathtaking views of the backwaters and the surrounding landscapes.
• They offer spacious and well-appointed rooms, restaurants serving local and international cuisine, spas, swimming pools, and other recreational facilities. Resorts like Lemon Tree Vembanad Lake Resort, Marari Beach Resort  and Punnamada Resort are popular choices among tourists.

Homestays

• For those who want to experience the local culture and lifestyle of Kerala, homestays are a great option. There are several homestays in Alappuzha that offer comfortable accommodation with a warm and friendly atmosphere.
• These homestays are usually run by local families who offer traditional Kerala food and hospitality. Some popular homestays in Alappuzha include Marari Dreamz Homestay, Mariya Homestay, and Bella Homestay.

Guesthouses

• Guesthouses are a budget-friendly accommodation option in Alappuzha. They offer clean and comfortable rooms with basic amenities such as a bed, a fan, and a bathroom.
• They are usually located in the town center or close to the beach and offer easy access to local attractions and restaurants. Some popular guesthouses in Alappuzha include Cozy Villa Guest House, Kondai Lip Backwater Heritage Resort, and Ripples Inn.

Alappuzha offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Whether you want to experience the backwaters on a houseboat or enjoy the luxury of a resort, or want to stay in a homestay to experience the local culture, there is something for everyone in Alappuzha.

conclusion

In conclusion, Alappuzha is a beautiful town that offers a wide range of attractions for visitors. From the backwaters to the beaches, from the temples to the churches, Alappuzha has something to offer for everyone. A visit to Alappuzha is an unforgettable experience that should not be missed.