Alleppey (Alappuzha), Kerala

Kerala, India - View on map
  • 5 Days
  • Max People : 26
  • Jan 18’ - Dec 21'
  • Min Age : 10+
Description

Destination Overview

Alleppey, fondly known as the “Venice of the East,” is Kerala’s backwater paradise where a mesmerizing network of emerald canals, lagoons, and lakes creates an enchanting aquatic labyrinth. This coastal district showcases Kerala’s backwater ecosystem in its most authentic form, with palm-fringed waterways weaving through villages, paddy fields, and coconut groves.

At the heart of Alleppey’s appeal are the traditional houseboats (kettuvallams), originally used to transport rice and spices, now transformed into floating accommodations that offer the quintessential Kerala experience. These elegant vessels, crafted from local materials and held together with coir rope rather than nails, provide an intimate glimpse into backwater life.

Beyond the backwaters, Alleppey charms visitors with pristine beaches, historic colonial architecture, and vibrant cultural traditions. The region’s agricultural heritage is celebrated through the spectacular Nehru Trophy Boat Race, where snake boats manned by over a hundred oarsmen slice through the waters in perfect rhythm. With its perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural authenticity, and unrushed pace, Alleppey embodies the serene magic that has made Kerala “God’s Own Country.”

Highlights of Alleppey Experience
Natural Wonders
  • Vast Network of Serene Backwaters
  • Vembanad Lake (Kerala’s Largest Lake)
  • Lush Paddy Fields Below Sea Level
  • Palm-Fringed Canals and Lagoons
  • Pristine Alleppey Beach Coastline
Cultural Heritage
  • Traditional Kettuvallam Houseboats
  • Historic Coir Manufacturing Centers
  • Ancient Temples and Churches
  • Thrilling Snake Boat Races
  • Authentic Fishing Communities
Culinary Experiences
  • Fresh Backwater Fish Specialties
  • Traditional Kerala Rice Meals
  • Coconut-Infused Local Cuisine
  • Toddy (Palm Wine) Tasting
  • Karimeen Pollichathu (Pearl Spot Fish)
Activities & Wellness
  • Houseboat Overnight Stays
  • Village Canoe Explorations
  • Ayurvedic Rejuvenation Treatments
  • Bird Watching in Kuttanad
  • Sunset Cruises on Vembanad Lake
Unique Experiences
  • Local Paddy Field Farming
  • Traditional Coir Making Demonstrations
  • Kuttanad Below Sea Level Farming
  • Toddy Tapping Exhibitions
  • Kathakali and Mohiniyattam Performances

 

 

Itinerary

Your enchanting journey begins as you arrive in Alleppey, where our representative welcomes you with refreshing tender coconut water and escorts you to your waterfront accommodation. Settle into your room overlooking the tranquil backwaters, where swaying palms and gentle ripples instantly induce a sense of calm. The afternoon unfolds with an orientation cruise on a small country boat through narrow canals, introducing you to the intricate waterway network that forms the lifeblood of this region. Glide past village homes, where children wave enthusiastically and women wash clothes along the banks, offering glimpses into authentic backwater life. Your guide explains the ecological significance of these wetlands and their role in Kerala's cultural identity. As the day mellows, enjoy a welcome dinner featuring karimeen pollichathu (pearl spot fish grilled in banana leaf) and other local delicacies, while watching the sun set over the shimmering waters, painting the sky in breathtaking hues.

Today delivers the quintessential Alleppey experience as you board your private traditional kettuvallam (houseboat) for an overnight journey. After a briefing from your personal crew—captain, chef, and attendant—settle onto the comfortable deck chairs as your floating accommodation navigates the broader waters of Vembanad Lake. Marvel at the skilled craftsmanship of these vessels, traditionally built without a single nail, as your guide explains their evolution from rice carriers to luxury accommodations. The leisurely cruise reveals panoramic vistas of villages, churches, and endless paddy fields stretching below sea level in Kuttanad, known as the "Rice Bowl of Kerala." Stop at a waterside village where you'll walk through narrow paths between homes to observe coir making, toddy tapping, and traditional fishing techniques. As evening approaches, your chef prepares an authentic Kerala meal on board using fresh ingredients, which you'll enjoy under a canopy of stars as your houseboat anchors in a tranquil spot for the night.

Wake to birdsong and gentle ripples as morning light filters through the coconut palms surrounding your anchored houseboat. After breakfast on board, bid farewell to your crew and transfer to a charming heritage property for your remaining stay. The morning continues with a visit to a traditional below-sea-level farm in Kuttanad, where ingenious farming methods have evolved over centuries. Walk along the narrow bunds between emerald paddy fields as farmers demonstrate their unique cultivation techniques. Later, visit a local temple where rituals have remained unchanged for generations, offering insight into Kerala's spiritual traditions. The afternoon brings a hands-on cooking class in a traditional home, where a local homemaker shares family recipes passed down through generations. Learn to prepare authentic dishes like avial (mixed vegetables with coconut) and Kerala-style chicken curry with appams. Your day culminates with a mesmerizing private performance of Mohiniyattam, the classical dance form of Kerala characterized by graceful, swaying movements that mimic the gentle motion of palm trees.

Your fourth day balances cultural heritage with Ayurvedic wellness traditions. Begin with an optional sunrise yoga session overlooking the backwaters, followed by a traditional Kerala breakfast featuring puttu and kadala curry. The morning takes you to Alleppey's historic quarter, where colonial buildings, ancient spice warehouses, and the old commercial canal showcase the region's trading heritage. Visit the International Coir Museum to understand how this natural fiber has sustained the local economy for centuries, with demonstrations of traditional rope-making techniques. After lunch featuring local specialties, indulge in a personalized Ayurvedic treatment at a respected wellness center. An experienced practitioner provides a consultation before recommending specific therapies using herbal oils and traditional techniques to balance your body's energies. The evening offers a special visit to witness the training sessions for the famous Nehru Trophy Boat Race, where you'll see team members practicing their synchronized rowing—an unforgettable display of teamwork, rhythm, and athletic prowess.

Your final day introduces you to Alleppey's coastal charm with a morning visit to the pristine Alleppey Beach, where golden sands meet the Arabian Sea. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the historic 150-year-old pier extending into the ocean, offering beautiful views of the coastline. Visit the nearby fishing harbor to witness the morning's catch being brought in on colorful boats, followed by the animated auction that supplies fresh seafood to local restaurants. Return inland for a special farewell lunch at a traditional toddy shop, where spicy local delicacies are paired with Kerala's palm wine in an authentic setting rarely experienced by tourists. The afternoon offers time for last-minute shopping at local handicraft centers, where you can purchase coir products, handloom textiles, and spices as souvenirs. As your Alleppey adventure draws to a close, experience a final sunset cruise on Vembanad Lake, where the golden light creates a magical atmosphere. Your journey concludes with a farewell dinner featuring a complete Kerala sadhya served on banana leaf—a fitting final tribute to this land of water, spice, and enduring traditions.

Location
Faq

A wonderful serenity has taken possession of my entire soul, like these sweet mornings of spring which I enjoy with my whole heart. I am alone, and feel the charm of existence in this spot, which was created for the bliss of souls like mine. I am so happy, my dear friend, so absorbed in the exquisite.

A wonderful serenity has taken possession of my entire soul, like these sweet mornings of spring which I enjoy with my whole heart. I am alone, and feel the charm of existence in this spot, which was created for the bliss of souls like mine. I am so happy, my dear friend, so absorbed in the exquisite.

A wonderful serenity has taken possession of my entire soul, like these sweet mornings of spring which I enjoy with my whole heart. I am alone, and feel the charm of existence in this spot, which was created for the bliss of souls like mine. I am so happy, my dear friend, so absorbed in the exquisite.

A wonderful serenity has taken possession of my entire soul, like these sweet mornings of spring which I enjoy with my whole heart. I am alone, and feel the charm of existence in this spot, which was created for the bliss of souls like mine. I am so happy, my dear friend, so absorbed in the exquisite.

Be the first to review “Alleppey (Alappuzha), Kerala”

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

From 711.00

Date
Clear