Ah, Alleppey… the Venice of the East, but without the overpriced gondola rides and questionable pizza. Instead, you get coconut trees swaying like they've got nothing better to do, endless waterways reflecting skies that can't decide if they want to be blue
or golden, and enough peace to make even your overworked brain take a break. So, what do you actually do in Alleppey? Glad you asked.
1. Float Your Worries Away on a Houseboat
Imagine a cozy little cottage, but instead of sitting on land, it's gently gliding over water. That’s a houseboat for you. These floating homes come with comfy beds, private bathrooms, and a chef who magically whips up authentic Kerala meals while you sit
back, sip on some fresh coconut water, and wave at random ducks. Pro tip: The sunset views from the deck? Worth every penny.
Book a houseboat in Alleppey online now!
2. Paddle Like You Mean It with Nadodi Kayaking
If floating around sounds too lazy for you, grab a paddle and hop into a kayak. Nadodi Kayaking takes you into the nooks and crannies of the backwaters—tiny canals where motorboats can't go and where life unfolds quietly. You'll pass fishermen doing their
thing, kids waving like you're a celebrity, and palm trees posing for your photos. No filter needed.
Just Google search for them.
3. Chill on a Shikara Ride
Not into paddling but still want to feel fancy on the water? A shikara ride is like Alleppey's version of a limo. These traditional boats, with their colorful cushions and little canopies, glide effortlessly while you lounge like royalty. It’s perfect if
you just want to sit, relax, and occasionally nod at passing boat-people like, “Yes, yes, I too am fabulous.”
You can book one via
Shikara Tours.
4. Get Some Sand Between Your Toes at Alleppey Beach
Backwaters are cool, but beaches? Always a vibe. Alleppey Beach is where the waves crash dramatically, the sunsets go full drama queen with their colors, and local vendors sell you fried bananas because carbs don't count on vacation. There's even an old
pier that's half broken but totally photogenic.
5. Temple Time at Ambalappuzha Sree Krishna Temple
Even if you're not the temple-hopping type, this one's worth a peek. It’s old, it’s beautiful, and it has this mind-blowingly good sweet dish called 'palpayasam.' People literally come here for the dessert. Spiritual enlightenment? Sure. But also, rice pudding.
6. Get Lost (In a Good Way) at Alleppey Market
Want to see where the locals shop for everything from spices to flip-flops? Head to Alleppey Market. It’s chaotic in the best way possible—colorful, noisy, and full of things you didn’t know you needed. Like a handwoven basket. Or ten different kinds of
bananas.
7. Feel the Rush at the Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race
If you happen to be around in August, this boat race is wild. Long, skinny boats packed with rowers paddling like their lives depend on it, crowds cheering like it’s the World Cup, and drums beating so loud your heart syncs with the rhythm. Even if you don’t
understand what’s going on, it’s impossible not to get swept up in the excitement.
8. Go Off-Grid in Kuttanad
Kuttanad is like Alleppey's chill cousin. Picture endless green rice fields, tiny villages, and waterways that seem to stretch forever. It’s where you go to forget about emails, deadlines, and Wi-Fi (though you’ll probably still have signal because, you
know, it’s 2025).
9. Sleep Like a Local in a Heritage Homestay
Skip the hotels and stay in a heritage homestay instead. Think old wooden houses with carved doors, breezy verandas, and aunties who cook better food than any restaurant. Plus, you get stories. Lots of them. Because Keralites love to talk, and they’re great
at it.
10. Eat Like There's No Tomorrow
Kerala food is the kind of stuff you dream about long after the trip is over. Fresh seafood? Check. Spicy curries? Double check. A traditional 'sadya' served on a banana leaf with like, 12 different dishes you can't pronounce but love anyway? Absolutely.
And yes, try the local toddy. It's like coconut beer, and it sneaks up on you.
Final Thoughts
Alleppey isn't about ticking off a list of touristy things. It's about slowing down, floating along (literally), and realizing that sometimes, doing nothing much is exactly what you needed. Just don’t forget your sunscreen.