Alappuzha, the Venice of the East, is a stunning destination that boasts serene backwaters, houseboat cruises, and golden beaches. The town is a paradise for nature lovers with lush green landscapes, tranquil canals, and the vast Vembanad Lake. Historic temples, charming villages, and vibrant local markets can be explored while fresh seafood and authentic Kerala cuisine are enjoyed. Whether it’s relaxing at Marari Beach, taking a shikara ride, or witnessing the famous Nehru Trophy Boat Race, Alappuzha offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
1.Marari beach
- 11 km from Alappuzha town.
- A serene, less-crowded beach with golden sand and swaying palm trees.
- Best Time to Visit – November to March for pleasant weather.
Marari Beach, a scenic, unspoiled coastal haven near Alappuzha is popular for its golden sand, swaying coconut trees, and serene atmosphere. Unlike the more crowded tourist beaches, Marari is a peaceful getaway, ideal for long strolls, swimming, and appreciating Kerala’s landscape. It has eco-friendly beach resorts, Ayurveda treatment facilities, and fresh seafood for the tourists. The gentle waves and the natural beauty make Marari Beach an ideal destination for those in search of serenity, wellness, and a true coastal getaway.
2.Pathiramanal Island
- Situated in Vembanad Lake, between Alappuzha and Kumarakom.
- Only accessible by boat or houseboat from Alappuzha or Kumarakom.
- A haven for birdwatchers, home to rare migratory birds like egrets, herons, and kingfishers.
Pathiramanal Island is like a paradise left behind. It can be approached only by boat, either from Alappuzha or Kumarakom. Filled with lush greenery and silent waters, it is a heaven to the birdwatcher as egrets, herons, and kingfishers are found as well. For those interested in nature, photography, and seeking isolation, this island offers all this, surrounded by pristine beauty. The backwaters boat ride, a walking trail to explore the island, and experience the unadulterated charm of nature in Kerala await the visitors.
3.Punnamada Lake
- Hosts the Nehru Trophy Boat Race, one of Kerala’s most exciting snake boat races.
- Surrounded by lush greenery, coconut palms, and traditional Kerala villages.
- Best Time to Visit: August (to witness the boat race) or during winter (October to February) for pleasant weather.
Punnamada Lake is a part of the vast Vembanad Lake, a scenic paradise in Alappuzha, known for its serene backwaters and vibrant boat races. The lake comes alive during the Nehru Trophy Boat Race, where majestic snake boats compete in a thrilling spectacle. Houseboat cruises on the calm waters offer breathtaking views of lush greenery, charming villages, and coconut palms. Whether it is a leisurely ride on the shikara, a kayaking adventure, or simply an immersion in the serenity of the atmosphere, Punnamada Lake is a place one should visit.
4.Alappuzha Beach
- Golden sandy shore, old sea bridge (Alleppey Pier), Alappuzha Lighthouse, and sunset views.
- Best Time to Visit – October to March (pleasant weather).
Alappuzha Beach is a stunning coastal destination, with golden sand, serene waves, and breathtaking sunsets. The historic Alleppey Pier extending into the sea adds a lot to it, giving an idea of the maritime past of the town. Relaxing beach walks, camel rides, and water sports can be enjoyed, and the panoramic views are also provided by nearby attractions like Alappuzha Lighthouse. Alappuzha Beach is indeed a perfect combination of adventure and relaxation with local food stalls selling vibrant dishes within a peaceful ambience.
5.Krishnapuram Palace
- Situated around 10 km from Alappuzha town, in the village of Krishnapuram.
- Built during the 18th century by King Marthanda Varma of the Travancore dynasty.
- Entry Fee: around 20-30 INR for adults; photography charges may apply.
- Open daily, usually from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM (closed on Mondays).
A lovely example of Kerala architecture lies within the beautiful Krishnapuram village situated close to Alappuzha. Krishnapuram Palace is a testament of the richness and grandeur of the erstwhile Travancore dynasty with sloping roofs, wooden pillars, and a small corridor structure dating back to the 18th century with the reign of King Marthanda Varma. The other most striking attractions at the Krishnapuram Palace are Gajendra Moksha Mural, a large Hindu mythological scenario in Kerala. The palace further boasts a museum, which displays many historical and sculptural monuments. Beautifully encircled with gardens and courtyards, Krishnapuram Palace opens up visions of Kerala’s history and heritage for the tourist.
6.Revi Karunakaran Museum
- The museum was established by Revi Karunakaran, a prominent businessman and art collector, who dedicated it to preserving the region’s rich history and cultural heritage.
- Open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM Closed on Mondays.
The Revi Karunakaran Museum in Alappuzha is a treasure house of art and culture, holding an impressive collection of paintings, antiques, and historical artifacts. Situated in a traditional Kerala-style building, the museum showcases crystal, porcelain, and bronze statues, besides rare jewelry and wooden sculptures reflecting the region’s rich heritage. Located near Alappuzha Beach, it offers a peaceful and immersive experience for art lovers and history enthusiasts. This unique and diversified exhibition gives an eye-catching look at Kerala’s cultural heritage through this museum.
7.Thanneermukkom Bund
- Situated near Kuttanadu, about 20 km from Alappuzha town. Thanneermukkom Bund is a popular spot in the backwaters of Kerala.
- It is the largest mud bund (dike) in Kerala
- The bund offers stunning views of the Vembanad Lake, especially where the fresh and saltwater meet, creating a unique natural phenomenon.
The Thanneermukkom Bund is a scenic and unique destination, being the largest mud bund in Kerala. It was built to prevent saltwater from mixing with the freshwater of Kuttanadu to protect the region’s rice fields. The bund provides a scenic view of the Vembanad Lake where fresh and saltwater meet to form a beautiful natural phenomenon. Surrounded by luscious greens, it’s an ideal place for peaceful walks, photography, and serenity of the backwaters. The place is situated close to other attractions like Kumarakom, a perfect stopover for those interested in experiencing the tranquil landscapes of Kerala.
8.Mannarasala Nagaraja Temple
- The temple is located near Haripad, in the Alappuzha district of Kerala, about 32 kilometers from Alappuzha town.
- It is dedicated to Lord Nagaraja, the serpent god, and is one of the most important snake temples in Kerala.
- The temple has a unique tradition where the chief priest is a woman, a rare practice in Kerala’s temples. The woman priest is known as the Naga Yogini.
- It is a peaceful and tranquil place surrounded by a lush forest.
The Mannarasala Nagaraja Temple, located in the city of Alappuzha, is the sacred place worshiped by serpent god Lord Nagaraja. It has a unique practice of worshipping serpents and is house to more than 30,000 serpent idols. Set amidst a very peaceful forest atmosphere, the architecture of the temple is purely that of traditional Kerala style. It is especially renowned for its connection to fertility and health, with many visiting to seek blessings for progeny and prosperity. The temple also stands out for its female priesthood, where the chief priest, known as the Naga Yogini, leads the ceremonies. The Ayilyam festival is the highlight of the temple’s calendar, attracting many devotees for special poojas and rituals.
9.Seaview Park
- Located along the Alappuzha Beach, providing stunning views of the Arabian Sea.
- The park is well-maintained with lush lawns, coconut trees, and flower beds.
- The park has a play zone for kids with slides and swings.
Seaview Park is a serene and scenic park located near the Alappuzha Beach. It is a perfect place for relaxation and leisure. The park is surrounded by lush greenery, coconut trees, and vibrant flower beds. The well-laid pathways make it an ideal place for a peaceful stroll or a family outing. The visitors can enjoy the stunning views of the Arabian Sea and the nearby beach, especially during sunset. With ample seating, a children’s play area, and easy beach access, Seaview Park is a wonderful place to unwind, take photographs, or simply enjoy the coastal beauty.
10.International Coir Museum
- The museum showcases the importance of coir in Kerala’s economy and culture.
- It displays a range of coir-based products like mats, rugs, mattresses, and even eco-friendly goods like coir pots.
- The museum is typically open from 9 AM to 5 PM.
The International Coir Museum in Alappuzha is a very interesting place that celebrates the coir industry of Kerala, giving evidence to the craftsmanship and the origin of coconut fiber products. There is a collection of coir artifacts, including mats, ropes, and eco-friendly items, with historical tools and live demonstrations of coir extraction and weaving. There is also educational value as visitors learn about the coir-making process and its importance for the region’s economy. It is a place one should visit, located near Alappuzha Beach and Krishnapuram Palace, and interested in Kerala’s traditional industries as well as culture.
11.Ambalappuzha Sree Krishna Temple
- The temple is believed to be more than 1,000 years old and was constructed by the Changanassery Rajas in the 15th century.
- Known for its traditional Kerala-style architecture and sweet Palpayasam
- The temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna in the form of Parthasarathy
- The Ambalappuzha Arattu Festival is the most important festival here
Ambalappuzha Sree Krishna Temple is located in Alappuzha and considered a holy place for worshiping Lord Krishna, although as Parthasarathy. The historical significance of the site is richly merged with the ancient Kerala-style architecture, that has interestingly carved wooden pillars and a very peaceful courtyard. It is quite particularly known for the sweet rice pudding, Palpayasam, which is offered here. The grand celebration includes vivid processions and traditional rituals during the temple’s annual Ambalappuzha Arattu Festival. And here, one promises not only a spiritual experience but also gives a glimpse of the rich cultural heritage of Kerala.
12.Light House
- Built in 1862, it served as a guiding light for ships navigating through the waters of the Arabian Sea.
- The lighthouse stands at around 42 meters tall, providing panoramic views of the beach and the surrounding area.
- The best time to visit is early in the morning or late in the evening
The Alappuzha Lighthouse is a historic beacon on the picturesque Alappuzha Beach, 42 meters tall. Constructed in 1862, it has guided ships safely along the Arabian Sea coast for centuries. With its iconic white-and-red striped design, the lighthouse offers breathtaking panoramic views of the beach, backwaters, and the surrounding landscapes. Visitors can climb to the top for a perfect spot to capture stunning photographs, especially during sunset. The lighthouse is a must-visit landmark for history enthusiasts and nature lovers looking to enjoy the serene beauty of Alappuzha.
13.Vijay Park
- It is a public park known for its lush greenery and well-maintained gardens.
- The park has a children’s play area, walking paths, and benches for visitors to sit and enjoy the surroundings.
- Close to Alappuzha Beach
Vijay Park located in Alappuzha is a quiet public park suitable for families and nature enthusiasts alike. This park has lush greenery and well-manicured gardens as well as a children’s playground, making it an ideal place to be relaxed and walked upon leisurely. Benches are scattered throughout the park, meaning someone can sit down and relax in the quiet of the area. The close proximity to places of visitation, like the Alappuzha Beach, adds to its appeal while providing a quiet retreat after a day of sightseeing. At times, they also host cultural events to give it that local flavor.
14.Mount Carmel Roman Catholic Cathedral
- Situated near the Alappuzha town center, located on the banks of the Punnappra River.
- Built in the early 19th century, the cathedral is a significant site for the Catholic community in Alappuzha. It is dedicated to Our Lady of Mount Carmel.
The Mount Carmel Roman Catholic Cathedral in Alappuzha is a historic and architectural gem, showcasing Gothic-style design with stunning stained glass windows and intricate interiors. Built in the early 19th century, the cathedral is dedicated to Our Lady of Mount Carmel and serves as a center for the Catholic community. It is a serene place of worship and reflection, and its visitors can feel the religiosity as well as the rustic local culture surrounding it. The calm environment of the cathedral and its close proximity to the Alappuzha Beach and backwaters make it a perfect stop for history, architecture, and tranquil-souled travelers.