Places to Visit in Alleppey (2024)

  • Post last modified:6 April 2023
  • Reading time:20 mins read
  • Post category:Places to Visit

Alleppey, one of the most beautiful towns in Southern India, is situated on the Laccadive Sea. There are numerous places to visit in Alleppey that will leave you spellbound. Also known as Alappuzha, this quaint town is ideal for those who are seeking solace away from the hustles and bustles of urban life.

Alleppey is constantly ranked as one of the cleanest cities in Kerala. The literacy rate in this town is also among the highest in the state. This mesmerizing town is also fondly referred to as “The Venice of the East”. This name was given to Alleppey by George Curzon, the viceroy to India during the early 20th Century. In this article, we present to you the places that you should not miss while sightseeing in Alleppey.


10 Places to visit in Alleppey

  1. Krishnapuram Palace
  2. Alapuzha/Alleppey Beach
  3. Pathiramanal Island
  4. Alleppey Lighthouse
  5. Sree Krishna Swamy Temple
  6. Kalloorkad St. Mary’s Basilica Church
  7. Revi Karunakaran Memorial Museum
  8. International Coir Museum
  9. Amaze World
  10. Alleppey Backwaters

Krishnapuram Palace

Krishnapuram Palace
Krishnapuram Palace

Explore the vestiges of Alleppey’s royal past at the iconic Krishnapuram Palace. One of the top tourist places in Alleppey, this attraction is a must-visit for those with a keen interest in history and architecture. This magnificent royal abode was built by Anizham Thirunal Marthanda Varma of the Travancore Kingdom during the 18th Century. Gajendra Moksha, one of the largest murals of its kind in the state, adorns one of the walls here.

On display at this palace are exhibits that belonged to the royal family that once called this palace their abode. The large pond situated at the palace complex is another popular attraction here that should not be missed. The Krishnapuram Palace gets its name from the Krishnaswamy Temple situated nearby. The Krishnapuram Palace is an exemplary, and one of the finest, examples of Kerala-style architecture.

  • Opening Time: Tuesday to Sunday from 09:00 AM to 01:00 PM and from 02:00 PM to 04:30 PM
  • Major Attractions: Historical artifacts
  • Ideal Duration to Explore: 1 -2 Hours

Alapuzha/Alleppey Beach

Alleppey Beach
Alleppey Beach

If sitting on a sandy beach on a starry night and counting waves is your kind of thing, visiting Alappuzha Beach is highly recommended. This pristine beach is among the top places to visit in Alleppey and should definitely be a part of your itinerary. This beach is home to a wooden pier that extends a fair distance into the sea. This pier has been there for more than 150 years making it one of the oldest in the state. This beach is a popular sunset watching spot.

This quaint beach has a charm to it that is matched by few others in the country. Nearby attractions include the lighthouse and Vijay Park. You will also find numerous restaurants and cafes nearby to satiate your hunger after a long walk at the beach. The Alappuzha Beach Festival and the Sand Art Festivals are hosted here annually.

  • Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
  • Major Attractions: Historical wooden pier
  • Ideal Duration to Explore: 1-2 Hours
  • Things to Do: Watch the Sunset

Pathiramanal Island

Pathiramanal Island
Pathiramanal Island

Situated in the Muhamma Panchayat of Alleppey district, this small island is a true nature’s marvel. The lush greenery of the island and the pristine waters of the Vembanad Lake surrounding it together create a marvellous sight to behold. This is also among the top places to visit in Alleppey with friends. According to the latest survey, over 91 species of local birds and over 50 species of migratory birds can be spotted at the Pathiramanal Island.

This green paradise is home to birds of numerous species and is one of the best places to visit in Alleppey for couples. Monarch flycatcher, Indian shag, night heron, pintail ducks, and Stork-billed kingfisher are some of the birds that can be spotted here. The Pathiramanal Island is home to over 53 species of trees, as well as several other species of plants and shrubs. The rich flora and fauna here make it a must-visit for nature lovers.

  • Best Time to Visit: November to May
  • Major Attractions: Lush greenery and serene atmosphere
  • Ideal Duration to Explore: 1 – 2 Hours
  • Things to Do: Explore flora and fauna

Alleppey Lighthouse

Alleppey Lighthouse
Alleppey Lighthouse

Built in the year 1862, this lighthouse is one of the major tourist places in Alleppey. The height of the lighthouse tower is 28 metres (92 feet). The red and white paint of the lighthouse makes it easily identifiable even from a distance. The Alleppey Lighthouse was the first-ever of its kind to be built on the Arabian Sea coast of Kerala. Once you manage to climb up the spiral stairs leading to the top of this lighthouse, the panoramic view you get to relish is unmatchable.

During the era this lighthouse was commissioned in, it was considered to be of much necessity. The countless Dutch, British, and Portuguese traders that were coming to Kerala would rely on the light beam that originated at the Alleppey Lighthouse for proper directions. The elevation of the focal plane of this lighthouse is 32.9 meters. The maximum luminous range of the light is 39.5 kilometers and the speed at which the light rotates is 1 RPM. This lighthouse is without doubt one of the most beautiful places in Alleppey.

  • Opening Time: Monday to Sunday from 03:00 PM to 05:00 PM
  • Major Attractions: Old teak stairways and machinery of the lighthouse
  • Ideal Duration to Explore: 30 Minutes
  • Things to do: Take in the sweeing view of the sea

Sree Krishna Swamy Temple

Sree Krishna Swamy Temple
Sree Krishna Swamy Temple

Sree Krishna Swamy Temple is one of the most visited tourist places near Alleppey. This Hindu temple is a major religious and historical attraction that is visited by people from across the country in large numbers. Situated in the Ambalapuzha town of the Alleppey district, Sree Krishna Swamy Temple was built in the 15th Century. This temple is believed to be built during the reign of Chembakasserry Pooradam Thirunal-Devanarayanan Thampuran of the Travancore empire.

The sculpture at this temple depicts Lord Vishnu in his Parthasarathy form. A sweet offering called Payasam made using rice and jaggery is offered here daily to the devotees. The legend goes that Lord Guruvayoorappan visits this temple every day to accept this offering. The architecture of the Sree Krishna Swamy Temple is admirable and depicts the Hindu-Kerala style of architecture. For the culturally inclined, Sree Krishna Swamy Temple is a must-visit place in Alleppey.

  • Opening Time: Monday to Saturday from 06:00 AM to 11:30 PM
  • Major Attractions: Architecture and the deities sculpture
  • Ideal Duration to Explore: 1 Hour
  • Things to do: Relish the sweet offering Payasam

Kalloorkad St. Mary’s Basilica Church

Kalloorkad St. Mary’s Basilica Church
Kalloorkad St. Mary’s Basilica Church

The Kalloorkad St. Mary’s Basilica Church is one of the most visited tourist places in Alleppey. Believed to be established in AD 427, this is one of the oldest churches not only in Kerala but in India. The open-air rock cross situated at this church is also one of the oldest of its kind in the country. According to experts, this rock cross can be dated back to AD 1151. This church is also referred to as Champakulam Valiya Palli by locals.

Owing to its religious and historical significance, this church was recognized as a basilica by Pope Francis in 2016. The architecture of this church is worth admiring. Attending the holy mass here is an experience that should not be missed. Whether for lighting a candle and offering prayer or for admiring the architecture, visiting Kalloorkad St. Mary’s Basilica Church is a must.

  • Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
  • Major Attractions: Historical rock cross
  • Ideal Duration to Explore: 1 Hour
  • Things to do: Attend Sunday mass

Revi Karunakaran Memorial Museum

Revi Karunakaran Memorial Museum
Revi Karunakaran Memorial Museum

Revi Karunakaran was a business magnate that revolutionized the coir industry in Kerala. During his lifetime, he managed to earn a name for himself as the leading exporter of coir products in the world. He also served as the director of the IDBI bank. He was the director of the Karan Group of Companies. After his demise in 2003, his wife Betty and daughter Lullu together set up a memorial museum as an ode to the life of the great philanthropist’s life.

The Revi Karunakaran Memorial Museum comprises private artefacts owned by Revi Karunakaran and his ancestors who come from aristocratic families. This memorial museum is home to a large collection of Swarovski crystals, Tanjore paintings, porcelain, jade and ivory. Revi Karunakaran Memorial Museum is one of the top places to see in Alleppey.

  • Opening Time: Tuesday to Sunday from 09:00 AM to 05:00 PM
  • Major Attractions: Ivory Exhibits
  • Ideal Duration to Explore: 1 Hour

International Coir Museum

International Coir Museum
International Coir Museum

This extraordinary museum situated in the heart of Aleppey was inaugurated in 2014. Since then, this museum has earned a name for itself as one of the must-visit places in Alleppey. This museum is an ode to the economic prosperity that the coir industry has brought to the local region as well as the entire state. Thousands of families are employed by the coir industry here making it one of the top job-providing sectors.

During your visit to the museum, you will get an opportunity to see a short video that explains in detail the history of the coir industry. This video will enlighten you regarding the development that this industry has achieved in recent years. The International Coir Museum is also home to a souvenir shop from where you can get world-class coir products like rugs, mats, etc.

  • Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 09:30 AM to 05:00 PM
  • Major Attractions: Coir exhibits
  • Ideal Duration to Explore: 1 -2 Hours

Amaze World

Amaze World Alleppey
Amaze World Alleppey

Amaze World in Alleppey is an amusement park that is a famous tourist place among tourists and locals alike. The various joyrides available at this amusement will bring out the kid in you. There are numerous rides here that are suitable for both kids and adults alike. Kids can enjoy the pedal boat and explore the artificial pond here. Dashcars, slides, merry-go-round, and various fun rides can be enjoyed at Amaze World without having to burn a hole in your pocket.

The indoor game room and the outdoor play area with swings and see-saws are additional attractions at the Amaze World. This is without doubt one of the best places to visit in Alleppey with family.

  • Opening Time: Monday to Sunday from 02:00 PM to 08:00 PM
  • Major Attractions: Dashing Car
  • Ideal Duration to Explore: 2 -3 Hours

Alleppey Backwaters

Alleppey Backwaters
Alleppey Backwaters

It will be a waste of your trip if you go back from Alleppey without exploring the backwaters. Although home to numerous tourist attractions, Alleppey’s real charm is in the backwaters that cover a relatively large area of the district. On the backwaters are numerous islands where locals live cosily and happily. On these islands, you can relish delicious local cuisine and even drink fresh toddy.

Alleppey houseboats are popular among tourists from around the world. Spending a night in a houseboat exploring the backwaters of Alleppey is an experience that is relished by people of all ages. Kayamkulam Kayal, Poomeen Kayal, vadakkal Kayal, Chethi Kayal, Arthungal Kayal, Pozhichal Kayal, Vettakkalchal Kayal and Vembanattu Kayal comprise the backwaters of Alleppey. Backwaters is one of the best destinations in Alleppey without a doubt.

  • Best Time to Visit: November to May
  • Major Attractions: Houseboat/Shikara boat rides
  • Ideal Duration to Explore: 4 – 6 Hours
  • Things to do: Relish seafood and drink toddy

FAQ

Is Alleppey Worth Visiting?

Yes, Alleppey is definitely worth visiting. Referred to as the “Venice of the East”, Alleppey is one of the most beautiful tourist places in India.

What is special in Alleppey?

The beautiful backwaters, beaches, boat races, and coir industry are the special things one can explore in Alleppey.

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