Places to Visit in Alleppey: 14 Spots Worth Your Time

Last updated: September 2026

Alleppey is less about ticking off sights and more about time on the water. Still, there is plenty to see in town and around it. Here are the places we send our guests, starting with the ones we’d never miss, with a note on who each suits and how to fit it in.

At a glance

On the water

1. The backwater canals

The narrow village canals are the heart of Alleppey. A canoe takes you where houseboats can’t, past homes, churches, schools and paddy fields, with herons and kingfishers all around. Go early, when the water is still and village life is waking up. Our guests get a free canoe ride on arrival. See Alleppey village canoeing.

2. Vembanad Lake and Punnamada

Vembanad is India’s longest lake. Its Punnamada stretch, just north of town, is where the houseboats gather and where the Nehru Trophy boat race is held, usually in August. Sunset here is spectacular. See our Vembanad Lake stay.

3. Pathiramanal Island

A small, wooded island in the middle of Vembanad Lake, known for its birdlife. You can only reach it by boat, so combine it with a shikara or houseboat trip. Mornings are best for birds.

4. A shikara or houseboat cruise

A shikara is a covered boat, smaller than a houseboat, and perfect for a few hours on the lake. A houseboat day cruise or overnight stay gives you more time on board. See shikara boating and our homestay + houseboat combo.

Countryside and villages

5. Kuttanad

Kerala’s “rice bowl”, where paddy grows below sea level behind earth embankments, and canals run higher than the fields. It is best seen by boat or on a slow drive, and it is at its greenest in the monsoon. See our Kuttanad page.

6. Champakulam

A backwater village known for its old church and its own snake boat race, usually held in the monsoon. It is a good stop on a Kuttanad boat trip.

7. Village walks and island footpaths

Some of the best moments in Alleppey are simply walking: along paddy bunds, past coir-makers and small temples, and watching the boats go by. Our island has a footpath all the way round, and village walks are free for guests.

Beaches

8. Alappuzha Beach and the pier

The town beach, with the ruins of an old pier stretching into the sea. It is at its best at sunset, when local families come out. Swimming can be rough, so enjoy it from the sand.

9. Alappuzha Lighthouse

A historic lighthouse near the beach, with views over the coastline and town.

10. Marari Beach

A quieter, cleaner beach north of Alleppey, lined with fishing boats and coconut palms. Watch the fishermen bring in their catch in the late afternoon.

Temples, churches and palaces

11. Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple

A famous temple south of town, known for its sweet rice pudding, palpayasam. Dress modestly, and check the rules for visitors before you go.

12. Mullakkal Rajarajeswari Temple

A popular temple in the heart of Alleppey town, and especially lively during festivals.

13. Krishnapuram Palace

An 18th-century palace near Kayamkulam, built in traditional Kerala style and known for its large mural painting. It makes a good half-day trip south.

14. St. Andrew’s Church, Arthunkal

A historic church by the sea, north of Alleppey, and an important pilgrimage site with a well-known annual feast.

Further afield

• Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: on the other side of Vembanad Lake, and best in the early morning. See Alleppey or Kumarakom.
• Kochi: Fort Kochi, the Chinese fishing nets and the old town. Most visitors pass through on the way in or out.

Suggested routes

More detail: how many days are enough for Alleppey.

Tips for sightseeing in Alleppey

• Do outdoor sights early morning or late afternoon, and rest at midday.
• Dress modestly for temples and churches. Some temples have entry rules for visitors.
• Agree boat and auto prices before you set off.
• Stay on the water, so the backwaters are on your doorstep. See where to stay in Alleppey.
• We can arrange a cab for a day of sightseeing.

Frequently asked questions

What is the most famous place in Alleppey?

The backwaters, especially Vembanad Lake and the Punnamada stretch where houseboats gather and the Nehru Trophy race is held.

What can I do in Alleppey in the evening?

Watch the sunset at Alappuzha Beach or over the lake, take a late-afternoon canoe ride, and enjoy a Kerala dinner.

Are there places to visit near Alleppey for families?

Yes. Canoe rides, the beach, Pathiramanal Island and fishing are all great with kids. See our family homestay.

Can I see Alleppey without a houseboat?

Yes. A canoe, a shikara and a lakeside stay show you the backwaters beautifully. See homestay vs houseboat.

Is Alleppey worth visiting?

We think so. See is Alleppey worth visiting?.

Make Punnamada your base: see our rooms and prices, or message us on WhatsApp +91 88484 96667.