Top Things to Do in Alleppey: Best Tourist Destinations & Activities

Known as the “Venice of the East,” Alleppey (Alappuzha) offers a magical blend of backwater serenity, pristine beaches, and rich cultural heritage. Whether you are looking for relaxation or adventure, here are the top places to visit and things to do in Alleppey.

Alleppey Backwaters and Houseboats

1. Cruise the Vembanad Lake Backwaters

The ultimate Alleppey experience. Stay overnight on a premium houseboat, drift through the palm-fringed canals, and witness the serene village life of Kerala right from your private deck.

Alappuzha Beach Pier at Sunset

2. Sunset at Alappuzha Beach

Take an evening stroll on the historic Alappuzha Beach. Famous for its 150-year-old ruined pier extending into the sea, it is the perfect spot for photography and relaxing by the Arabian Sea.

Marari Beach Alleppey

3. Relax at Marari Beach

Located just a short drive from the main city, Marari Beach is a quiet, pristine, white-sand destination. It is ideal for couples, sunbathing, and peaceful beachside Ayurvedic therapies.

Kuttanad Paddy Fields

4. Explore Kuttanad (The Rice Bowl of Kerala)

Visit the lush green paddy fields of Kuttanad, one of the few places in the world where farming is done below sea level. The vast agricultural landscapes and narrow water channels are breathtaking.

Alleppey Lighthouse

5. Climb the Alleppey Lighthouse

Built in 1862, this historic coastal lighthouse offers a stunning panoramic view of the Laccadive Sea, the beach park, and the dense green canopy of Alappuzha from its top deck.

Pathiramanal Island Bird Sanctuary

6. Bird Watching at Pathiramanal Island

Take a small motorboat or speedboat to this lush, uninhabited island on Vembanad Lake. It is a haven for nature lovers and a sanctuary for rare migratory birds.

Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple

7. Visit Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple

Experience local heritage at this ancient Hindu temple famous for its classic Kerala architecture and the legendary “Palpayasam” (sweet milk porridge) served to devotees.

Shikara Boating in Alleppey Canals

8. Shikara Rides & Kayaking in Narrow Canals

For adventure seekers and those wanting to explore the untouched corners of Alleppey, renting a kayak or taking a traditional Shikara boat into the narrowest canals is a must-do activity.

Authentic Kerala Food Karimeen

9. Taste Authentic Kerala Cuisine

No trip is complete without local flavors. Indulge in fresh backwater catches like Karimeen Pollichathu (Pearl Spot fish), alongside local favorites like hot stews, appams, and freshly prepared Chapati.