#3 Ride an old rice barge through the backwaters
Whoever dreamed up the idea of showing tourists around the backwaters in old kettu vallam (rice barges), could never have imagined that, more than three decades on, nine hundred or more of them would be chugging around Kuttanad waterways.
These houseboats, made of dark, oiled jackwood with canopies of plaited palm thatch and coir, are big business, and almost every accommodation seems to have one. The flashiest are fitted with a/c rooms, Jacuzzis and widescreen plasma TVs on their teak sun decks and have bottles of imported wine in their fridges.
Cruises last a minimum of 22 hours, though don’t expect to spend all of that on the move: running times are carefully calculated to spare gas. From sunset onwards you’ll be moored at a riverbank.
#4 Relax on Alappuzha Beach
Relax on this lick of sandy shoreline while enjoying breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea. Take a leisurely stroll along the beach, witness the mesmerising sunset, and don't forget to try some delicious local snacks from the beachside stalls.
The beach also hosts various cultural events and festivals, adding to its vibrant ambiance.
Best areas to stay in Alleppey
As well as the houseboats, Alappuzha has a decent amount of value accomodation and homestays too. Here’s where to stay.
Even if you aren't planning on boarding a houseboat, Alleppey has some of Kerala's most charming and best-value accommodation, particularly when it comes to homestays and backpacker hostels. Homestays are also mushrooming along the coast north of Alleppey and around the remote backwaters.
Alappuzha
To fully immerse yourself in the backwater experience, consider staying in one of the houseboats or resorts located in the backwater areas of Alappuzha.
Alappuzha Beach
Numerous hotels and resorts line the beachfront at Alappuzha Beach, offering a range of amenities and breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea.
Punnamada Lake
For a tranquil and picturesque setting, Punnamada Lake is an ideal option. You can choose from luxury resorts or homestays that offer stunning views of the lake. The latter are growing exponential along the coast north of Alleppey as well.
Browse the best hotels in Alleppey.
Best restaurants and bars
With a handful of good restaurants, Alleppey isn’t exactly a culinary superstar. That said, you can expect lots of great homecooking on the barges and at guesthouses. Here’s where to go.
Alleppey Beach Road is a bustling area near Alleppey Beach with numerous restaurants serving traditional Kerala cuisine and plenty of fresh seafood. Located in the city centre, Mullakkal Street is a treasure trove of local eateries and small cafes.
The shoreline is dotted with some great restaurants where the Indian food is as good as the views from your table.