Alleppey Travel Guide –
Things To Do, Places To Stay, Food To Eat & More
Alappuzha, the city affectionately known to travellers as Alleppey, is world-famous for one thing: its mesmerising backwaters. This vast network of canals, rivers, and lakes creates a unique world on the water, best experienced from the deck of a traditional houseboat.
But there’s more to this Keralan coastal town than just houseboats. From serene beaches and historic lighthouses to vibrant local life, Alleppey offers a slice of Kerala that’s both relaxing and culturally rich.
This is a practical, no-nonsense guide designed to help you plan your trip, whether you’re here for a 24-hour whirlwind tour or a week-long immersion. We’ll cover everything from the best time to visit to the must-try local food, all based on on-the-ground knowledge.
First Steps To Planning Your Alleppey Trip
Getting the logistics right is the key to a stress-free trip. Here’s everything you need to know before you go.
Best Time to Visit Alleppey & Current Weather
Alleppey is a year-round destination, but the experience changes dramatically with the seasons.
❄️ Winter (October to February)
This is the peak tourist season, and for good reason. The weather is fantastic, with clear skies, pleasant temperatures (20-30°C), and low humidity.
Ideal for: Houseboat cruises, sightseeing, and any outdoor activity. The comfortable climate makes it the best time to visit, but be prepared for higher prices and more crowds.
🌧️ Monsoon (June to September)
During the monsoon, Alleppey transforms into a lush, green paradise. The scenery is at its most vibrant, with dramatic skies and rain-washed landscapes.
Ideal for: Travellers looking for great deals and fewer crowds. It’s also the time for the spectacular Nehru Trophy Boat Race (held on the second Saturday of August). Heavy rains can sometimes disrupt plans, but the off-season prices are a major plus.
☀️ Summer (March to May)
Let’s be honest, summer in Alleppey is hot and humid, with temperatures often soaring above 35°C.
Ideal for: Budget travellers who don’t mind the heat. This is the quietest time to visit, and you can find the best rates on accommodation and houseboats.
How to Reach Alleppey?
✈️ By Air
The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport (COK), located about 78 km north of Alleppey. It’s well-connected with domestic and international flights. From the airport, you can hire a prepaid taxi (the journey takes about 2 hours) or book a cab through ride-hailing apps.
🚊 By Train
Alappuzha Railway Station (ALLP) is conveniently located within the city limits, making it a great option. It’s well-connected by regular trains to major cities like Cochin (Ernakulam), Trivandrum, Chennai, and Bangalore.
🚕 By Road
Alleppey is easily accessible via National Highway 66 (NH 66). Regular government-run (KSRTC) and private buses operate from nearby cities like Cochin, Trivandrum, Kottayam, and Munnar. Driving to Alleppey is also a great option, with scenic routes along the coast.