the well-travelled souls
travelling since 1980
Location & Approach
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Location – Alappuzha, also known as Alleppey, is a coastal town in the southern Indian state of Kerala. It is renowned for its extensive network of canals, lagoons, and backwaters.
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Coordinates – 9.4981°N latitude, 76.3388°E longitude.
Surrounding Region – Situated on the Malabar Coast of the Arabian Sea, it is located between Vembanad Lake and the sea, with key towns like Kochi and Kottayam nearby. Alappuzha is approximately 53-61 km from Kochi and 45-48 km from Kottayam by road. As the town sits on the shore of Vembanad Lake, the distance to attractions on the lake is very short, typically a 15-minute drive.
Approach into Alappuzha
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By Air – Cochin International Airport (COK) is the nearest major airport, approximately 83 km away.
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By Rail – Alappuzha Railway Station (ALLP) has good connections to major cities in India.
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By Road – Well-connected by NH 66 and NH 183, with frequent bus and taxi services from nearby cities.
Weather & Best Time to Travel
Climate – Tropical monsoon, with three distinct seasons.
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Winters (October - February) – Approximately 17-33°C. It's dry and breezy, making it the most pleasant time for travel and outdoor activities.
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Summers (March - May) – Approximately 25-38°C. Hot and humid, but less crowded and more budget-friendly.
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Monsoon (June - September) – Approximately 22-30°C. Characterized by lush green landscapes and ideal for experiencing Ayurvedic treatments.
Best Time to Travel – October to February is the most favorable period for visiting, as the weather is cool and dry, perfect for houseboat cruises, beach visits, and cultural festivals.
Best Things to See & Do
Alappuzha offers a rich tapestry of experiences, blending natural beauty with profound cultural and spiritual encounters.
Nature & Exploration
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Backwater Cruises – Glide through the narrow canals of Kuttanad on a traditional kettuvallam (houseboat) or canoe, observing paddy fields, toddy tapping, and coir-making.
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Beach Visits – Relax at Alappuzha Beach and Marari Beach, known for their serenity.
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Lighthouse & Pier – Explore the 19th-century pier and lighthouse at Alappuzha Beach.
Cultural & Heritage Immersion
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Nehru Trophy Boat Race – Witness this iconic Vallam Kali (snake boat race) on Punnamada Lake every August, a spectacle of synchronized rowing and cheering crowds.
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Classical Arts & Folk Performances – Experience Kathakali, Ottamthullal, and Mohiniyattam at cultural centers or during temple festivals.
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Coir-Making & Handicrafts – Visit coir factories to see how coconut husk is transformed into mats, a craft integral to Alappuzha's identity.
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Museums & Heritage Walks – Discover the town's maritime past at the Alappuzha Port Museum or explore Christian art and local history at the Mar Kurialacherry Museum.
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Colonial Churches – Explore churches reflecting Portuguese and Dutch heritage, such as Champakulam Church, Edathua Church, and St. Andrew’s Basilica.
Sacred & Spiritual Journeys
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Chettikulangara Bharani Festival – A visual feast in February-March at the Chettikulangara Bhagavathy Temple, featuring ritual dances (Kuthiyottam) and towering effigies (Kettukazcha).
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Padanilam Shivaratri – An all-night celebration at the Padanilam Parabrahma Temple with ritual processions and oil-lamp offerings.
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Chakkulathukavu Pongala – In November-December, thousands of women offer Pongala (a sweet rice dish) at the Chakkulathukavu Temple, one of Kerala’s largest women-led religious gatherings.
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Temple Visits – Visit the Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple, famous for its Palpayasam (sweet milk porridge).
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Church Feasts – Attend grand celebrations like the Champakulam Church Feast, Edathua Church Festival, and Arthunkal Perunnal.
Wellness & Culinary Experiences
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Ayurvedic Retreats – Many resorts offer personalized Ayurvedic therapies, yoga sessions, and wellness consultations.
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Beach Yoga – Join a local instructor for sunrise yoga on Marari Beach, often followed by herbal tea and meditation.
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Street Food Crawl – Sample local delights like idiyappam, nuller puttu, and payamburi, and witness sweet-making.
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Hands-on Cooking Classes – Learn to prepare authentic Kerala dishes from local families.
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Toddy Tasting – Experience the mildly alcoholic coconut sap drink in local toddy shops.
Travel Tips
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Dress Modestly – Wear lightweight, breathable clothing, especially during the day. When visiting temples, remember to dress respectfully.
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Embrace the Waterways – A houseboat, canoe, or shikara ride is an essential part of the experience. Government ferries are a cheap and scenic way to travel between places.
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Time Your Visit – The best time to visit is from October to March for pleasant weather. Monsoon season (June-August) offers lush greenery and lower prices but can have heavy rains.
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Respect Local Customs – Be mindful of local traditions, especially when visiting religious sites.
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Savor Local Cuisine – Don't miss out on authentic Kerala seafood curries and the traditional sweet milk porridge, palpayasam.
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Plan Your Transportation – Auto-rickshaws are widely available for short distances, but it's best to agree on a fare beforehand.