Alleppey (officially Alappuzha) is often called the "Venice of the East." And once you arrive and see the network of canals, lakes, and coconut-lined backwaters, you'll understand exactly why. But what should you actually do here? Here's our local-curated list.
1Take a Private Speed Boat Ride
If you want to experience the Alleppey backwaters at full speed — with the wind in your hair, water spraying around you, and Kerala's lush green scenery flying past — a private speed boat ride is unmissable. Unlike houseboats that move slowly, a speed boat at 60 km/h lets you cover more of Vembanad Lake, the village canals, and the boat race track in a single trip.
We offer 10-minute, 30-minute, and 1-hour packages — all private, with a certified local pilot and life jackets included. It's consistently rated as one of the top experiences in Alleppey.
2Stay on a Houseboat (Kettuvallam)
Alleppey is famous for its traditional wooden houseboats — called kettuvallam — that were once used to transport rice along the canals. Today they've been converted into floating hotels, complete with bedrooms, a kitchen, and a sit-out deck. Book an overnight stay and fall asleep to the sound of water. There are hundreds to choose from at all price points.
3Watch the Nehru Trophy Boat Race
Held on the second Saturday of August every year, the Nehru Trophy Boat Race is one of the most spectacular events in Kerala. Massive snake boats (chundan vallam) with over 100 rowers compete in formation on Punnamada Lake. Even outside the race season, you can see the boat race track from the water — a key stop on our speed boat tours.
4Explore the Village Canals by Canoe
Hire a simple canoe or kayak and paddle through the narrow village canals that are too small for larger boats. These hidden waterways give you an intimate glimpse into daily Kerala village life — women washing clothes on the banks, fishermen casting nets, children playing by the water. It's quiet, slow, and deeply authentic.
5Visit Krishnapuram Palace
About 47 km from Alleppey town, Krishnapuram Palace is a beautifully preserved example of Kerala's traditional architecture. Built in the 18th century, it houses a gallery of murals, sculptures, and artifacts. The palace garden and grounds are peaceful and worth the short drive.
6Try Kerala Sadya — the Banana Leaf Feast
A sadya is a traditional Kerala meal served on a banana leaf — a spread of 20+ dishes including rice, sambar, avial, thoran, payasam, and more. In Alleppey, you'll find authentic sadya at local restaurants, especially during festival seasons. Eat with your hands — it's the local way.
7Sunrise or Sunset on the Backwaters
The backwaters are magical at golden hour. The water turns copper and gold, birds nest in the reeds, and the coconut palms are silhouetted against the sky. Catch it from the deck of a houseboat, a canoe, or — best of all — from the bow of a speed boat at 6:30 AM when the water is perfectly calm and the world is just waking up.
8Coir Weaving and Craft Villages
Alleppey district is the center of Kerala's coir (coconut fiber) industry. Visit a coir weaving village to watch artisans at work creating mats, ropes, and baskets by hand. Many villages welcome visitors, and some offer short weaving experiences. It's a fascinating look at a centuries-old craft that's still thriving.
9St. Mary's Forane Church, Champakulam
One of the oldest churches in Kerala, the St. Mary's Forane Church in Champakulam dates back to AD 427. It's set beautifully by the backwaters and hosts the famous Champakulam Boat Race each year. The church itself is architecturally stunning — a mix of Kerala and Portuguese influences.
10Shop at the Alleppey Market
The Alleppey market is a lively, colorful hub of fresh produce, spices, seafood, and handicrafts. Walk through the lanes early in the morning when the fish market is at its most animated. You'll find fresh coconuts, jackfruit, local spices, and handmade goods to take home.
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How many days do I need in Alleppey?
Most visitors spend 2–3 days in Alleppey. One day for a backwater experience (speed boat + houseboat), one day to explore the town and surroundings, and one day for day trips to nearby spots like Kuttanad or Kumarakom.
Is Alleppey worth visiting?
Absolutely. Alleppey is one of India's most unique destinations — there is literally nowhere else in the country quite like it. The combination of the backwaters, village life, Kerala cuisine, and the boat culture make it a deeply memorable place.
What is the best way to see the Alleppey backwaters?
For speed and coverage, a private speed boat is the best. For a slow, immersive experience, a houseboat overnight stay is unbeatable. Many visitors do both — a morning speed boat ride and an evening/night on a houseboat.