Alappuzha at a Glance: Entry, Timings & Key Info
| State | Kerala |
| Famous For | Alleppey, Backwaters, Houseboats |
| Best Time to Visit | September to March |
| Ideal Duration | 2-3 days minimum |
| Language | Malayalam, English |
| Nearest Airport | Cochin International Airport (COK), 78km from city |
| Nearest Railway | Alappuzha (ALLP) |
| From Kochi | 53 km · 1h 30m |
| Entry Fee | Free – ₹50+ (varies) |
| Best For | all travellers |
Alappuzha: What Makes It Worth Visiting
Alappuzha, also known as Alleppey, is a charming backwater town in Kerala, often called the 'Venice of the East'. It's famous for its serene canals, lush paddy fields, and houseboat stays. The town is also a major center for coir manufacturing and the venue for the annual Nehru Trophy Boat Race.
Alappuzha offers a unique experience of tranquil backwater life. The houseboat stays are a major draw, but can be expensive and touristy. The town itself is relatively small and easy to navigate, but can get crowded during peak season.
Alappuzha: Temples & Religious Site Opening Hours
| Name | Hours | Entry Fee | Best Time | Dress Code |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mullakkal Rajarajeswari Temple | 04:00-12:00, 17:00-21:00 daily | Free | Early morning or evening for a | Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) |
| St. Mary's Forane Church, Champakulam | 07:00-19:00 daily | Free | Any time of day. | Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) |
How to Reach Alappuzha: Road, Train, Air & Bus Routes
directions_car Driving to Alappuzha: Road Routes & Highways
train Train to Alappuzha: Nearest Station & Schedules
Nearest Station: Alappuzha (ALLP) — Main railway station in Alappuzha, connecting to major cities in India.
- From Delhi: 35-40 hours (₹1,500-₹4,000)
- From Mumbai: 25-30 hours (₹1,200-₹3,500)
Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia
flight Flying to Alappuzha: Nearest Airport & Transfers
Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (COK), 78km from city
- Delhi: 3-4 hours (₹4,000-₹8,000)
- Mumbai: 1.5-2 hours (₹3,000-₹6,000)
Airport transfer:
- Taxi: ₹2,000-₹3,000
- Uber/Ola: ₹1,800-₹2,500
- Bus: ₹150-₹200, 2-3 hours (requires transfer in Ernakulam)
directions_bus Bus to Alappuzha: Services & Timings
- From Kochi: 2 hours (₹100-₹200)
- From Trivandrum: 4 hours (₹200-₹400)
Trains are generally more comfortable for long distances.
Best Time to Visit Alappuzha: Month-by-Month Guide (2026)
Best months: September to March
| Season | Temperature | What to Expect | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Time: September to March | 22-32 degrees C | This is the peak season, offering the best weather for houseboat cruises and out | Best ✓ |
| Shoulder Season: April to May | 28-35 degrees C | You can find better deals on accommodation and houseboat rentals compared to the | Be prepared for the heat and humidi |
| Avoid: June to August | 25-30 degrees C | Avoid visiting during the monsoon season due to the heavy rainfall and potential | If you must travel during this time |
Peak season note: Expect higher prices for accommodation and houseboat rentals. Book your houseboat and activities well in advance, especially if traveling during the boat race.
2-Day Alappuzha Itinerary: Day-by-Day Highlights
Day 1 — Temples & Heritage
🌅 Morning (9 AM – 12 PM)
🏖️ Alappuzha Beach
Alappuzha Beach is a popular spot known for its pier, lighthouse, and recreational activities. The beach offers a wide sandy stret…
💡 Tip: Visit the Vijaya Park near the beach for a relaxing break.
☀️ Afternoon (12 PM – 5 PM)
📍 Nehru Trophy Boat Race Venue
Punnamada Lake is the venue for the famous Nehru Trophy Boat Race, a major annual event in Kerala. The race features traditional s…
💡 Tip: Arrive early on race day to secure a good viewing spot.
📍 Alappuzha Lighthouse
The Alappuzha Lighthouse is a historic structure offering panoramic views of the coastline and the town. It was built in 1862 and …
💡 Tip: Check the weather conditions before visiting, as the lighthouse may close during heavy rain or stron
🌆 Evening (5 PM – 7 PM)
🙏 Mullakkal Rajarajeswari Temple
Mullakkal Rajarajeswari Temple is a prominent Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Rajarajeswari. It is one of the most important tem…
💡 Tip: Visit during the Navaratri festival for a vibrant cultural experience.
Day 2 — More to Explore
🌅 Morning (9 AM – 12 PM)
🎨 Revi Karunakaran Memorial Museum
The Revi Karunakaran Memorial Museum showcases a private collection of art and artifacts. It features a diverse range of exhibits,…
💡 Allow ample time to explore the extensive collection.
☀️ Afternoon (12 PM – 5 PM)
🙏 St. Mary's Forane Church, Champakulam
St. Mary's Forane Church in Champakulam is one of the oldest Christian churches in India. It is believed to have been established …
💡 Combine your visit with a backwater cruise through the surrounding canals.
🏛️ Krishnapuram Palace
Krishnapuram Palace is a historic palace showcasing Kerala-style architecture and artifacts. It is known for its mural paintings, …
💡 Take a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of the palace.
Top Places to Visit in Alappuzha: Must-See Attractions & Things to Do
| # | Place | Entry | Duration | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 🏖️ Alappuzha Beach | Free | 2-3 hours | Open 24 hours |
| 2 | 📍 Nehru Trophy Boat Race Venue | ₹50 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners) during race; otherwise free to view the area | 1-2 hours (during race day much longer) | Open during daylight hours, race in August/September |
| 3 | 📍 Alappuzha Lighthouse | ₹20 (Indians), ₹200 (foreigners) | 1 hour | 09:00-11:45, 14:00-17:30 daily |
| 4 | 🙏 Mullakkal Rajarajeswari Temple | Free | 1-2 hours | 04:00-12:00, 17:00-21:00 daily |
| 5 | 🎨 Revi Karunakaran Memorial Museum | ₹50 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners) | 2-3 hours | 09:00-18:00 daily |
| 6 | 🙏 St. Mary's Forane Church, Champakulam | Free | 1 hour | 07:00-19:00 daily |
| 7 | 🏛️ Krishnapuram Palace | ₹30 (Indians), ₹300 (foreigners) | 2 hours | 09:00-17:00 daily |
🏖️ 1. Alappuzha Beach
Alappuzha Beach is a popular spot known for its pier, lighthouse, and recreational activities. The beach offers a wide sandy stretch and views of the Arabian Sea.
Honest take: Worth a visit for the sunset, but can be crowded.
📍 Getting there: Easily accessible by auto-rickshaw or bus from Alappuzha town.
📍 2. Nehru Trophy Boat Race Venue
Punnamada Lake is the venue for the famous Nehru Trophy Boat Race, a major annual event in Kerala. The race features traditional snake boats competing for the coveted trophy.
Honest take: A must-see during the race, otherwise a pleasant lake view.
📍 Getting there: Located on Punnamada Lake, accessible by boat or road from Alappuzha town.
📍 3. Alappuzha Lighthouse
The Alappuzha Lighthouse is a historic structure offering panoramic views of the coastline and the town. It was built in 1862 and continues to function as a navigational aid.
Honest take: Worth the climb for the panoramic views.
📍 Getting there: Located near Alappuzha Beach, easily accessible by auto-rickshaw or on foot.
Food & Restaurants in Alappuzha: Local Dishes & Where to Eat
Must-try dishes: Karimeen Pollichathu, Alleppey Fish Curry, Prawn Curry, Appam with Stew, Puttu and Kadala Curry
| Dish / Specialty | Price Range | Where to Find |
|---|---|---|
| Karimeen Pollichathu | ₹₹₹ (₹800-₹1,200 for two) | Punnamada Lake |
| Masala Dosa | ₹ (₹200-₹300 for two) | Alappuzha Town |
| Biryani | ₹₹ (₹400-₹600 for two) | Alappuzha Town |
🛺 Street Food: Alappuzha Beach Road — Fried fish, seafood snacks, ice cream (₹50-₹150 per person)
Alappuzha Trip Budget (Per Person)
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Comfortable |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation/night | ₹800-₹1,500/night | ₹2,500-₹4,000/night | ₹8,000+/night |
| Food/day | ₹200–400 | ₹500–800 | ₹1,000–1,500 |
| Local transport | ₹100–200 | ₹300–500 | ₹500–1,000 |
| Entry fees (avg) | ₹50–100 | ₹100–200 | ₹200–400 |
| Total (2 days) | ~₹1,700 | ~₹4,500 | ~₹11,000 |
Day Trips from Alappuzha: Best Nearby Destinations
| Place | Distance | Drive Time | Famous For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kochi | 60 km | 1h 30m | fort kochi, chinese fishing nets, spice trade |
| Munnar | 170 km | ~4 hrs | tea plantations, hill station, western ghats |
| Trivandrum | 150 km | ~2.5–3 hrs | — |
Hotels in Alappuzha: Best Accommodation for Every Budget
💰 Budget
Alleppey Holiday Beach Resort
₹800-₹1,500/night
Near Alappuzha Beach
Pagoda Resorts
₹1,000-₹2,000/night
Alappuzha Town
🏨 Mid-Range
Raheem Residency
₹2,500-₹4,000/night
Near Alappuzha Beach
Lake Palace Resort
₹3,000-₹5,000/night
Punnamada Lake
⭐ Luxury
Xandari Riverscapes
₹8,000+/night
Backwaters
The Oberoi Vrinda
₹10,000+/night
Backwaters
Alappuzha Travel Tips: Safety, Money & Getting Around
- ✓ Houseboat scams: Some operators may offer lower prices but provide substandard service. Book through reputable agencies or check reviews.
- ✓ Auto-rickshaw scams: Drivers may try to overcharge tourists. Always negotiate the fare beforehand or insist on using the meter.
- ✓ Light cotton clothing is recommended due to the humid climate. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
- ✓ ATMs are widely available in Alappuzha town.
- ✓ Airtel and Vodafone offer good coverage. A local SIM card costs around ₹300-₹500 with data plans.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Alappuzha
How many days are enough for Alappuzha?
2-3 days minimum is ideal for Alappuzha. Day 1 covers Alappuzha Beach and Nehru Trophy Boat Race Venue, while Day 2 explores Revi Karunakaran Memorial Museum and St. Mary's Forane Church, Champakulam.
What is Alappuzha famous for?
Alappuzha is famous for Alleppey, Backwaters, Houseboats.
What is the best time to visit Alappuzha?
The best time to visit Alappuzha is September to March. The weather is pleasant and dry, making it ideal for exploring the backwaters and beaches. Humidity is relatively low during these months.
How do I reach Alappuzha from Kochi?
Alappuzha is 53 km from Kochi by road, approximately 1h 30m drive via NH-66. The nearest railway station is Alappuzha (ALLP). The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport (COK), 78km from city.
Is Alappuzha worth visiting?
Yes, Alappuzha is worth visiting for Alleppey, Backwaters, Houseboats. It is especially recommended for all travellers and can be combined with a visit to Kochi.
What is the budget for a trip to Alappuzha?
A 2-day trip to Alappuzha costs approximately ₹2,000–₹5,000 per person including accommodation, food, and local transport. Budget accommodation starts at ₹800-₹1,500/night per night.
What are the timings of Mullakkal Rajarajeswari Temple?
Mullakkal Rajarajeswari Temple is open 04:00-12:00, 17:00-21:00 daily. Best time to visit: Early morning or evening for a peaceful experience..
What is the entry fee for Mullakkal Rajarajeswari Temple?
Entry fee at Mullakkal Rajarajeswari Temple: Free.
What is the dress code for Mullakkal Rajarajeswari Temple?
Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) when visiting Mullakkal Rajarajeswari Temple.
Is photography allowed at Mullakkal Rajarajeswari Temple?
Photography is not allowed inside at Mullakkal Rajarajeswari Temple.
What are the timings of St. Mary's Forane Church, Champakulam?
St. Mary's Forane Church, Champakulam is open 07:00-19:00 daily. Best time to visit: Any time of day..
What is the entry fee for St. Mary's Forane Church, Champakulam?
Entry fee at St. Mary's Forane Church, Champakulam: Free.
What is the dress code for St. Mary's Forane Church, Champakulam?
Modest clothing (cover shoulders & legs) when visiting St. Mary's Forane Church, Champakulam.