Welcome to Alappuzha! Begin your trip by checking hotel and flight prices here. Once you're settled, spend the morning exploring the iconic Alappuzha Beach, known for its picturesque views and serene atmosphere. In the afternoon, take a backwater cruise along the famous Alappuzha Backwaters, immersing yourself in the enchanting beauty of Kerala's backwaters. In the evening, visit the Alappuzha Lighthouse for a panoramic view of the city.
Alappuzha Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
Alappuzha Backwaters Cruise: INR 800-1500 per person, 3-4 hours
Alappuzha Lighthouse: INR 20 per person, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
The Beach Cafe: Enjoy a delicious breakfast with a view at The Beach Cafe, located near Alappuzha Beach. They offer a range of breakfast options including traditional Kerala cuisine and continental dishes. The average cost for a meal here is about Rs. 200 per person.
Halais Restaurant: For a satisfying lunch, head to Halais Restaurant, known for its authentic Arabian and North Indian dishes. Their extensive menu includes biryanis, kebabs, and curries. The average cost for a meal here is about Rs. 300 per person.
Mullackal Restaurant: Indulge in a flavorsome dinner at Mullackal Restaurant, a local favorite known for its seafood delicacies. Try their freshly caught fish curry or prawn fry for a truly authentic Alappuzha dining experience. The average cost for a meal here is about Rs. 400 per person.
Thursday, October 5, 2023: Alappuzha Town Exploration
Start your day with a visit to the historic Mullakkal Rajeshwari Temple, where you can witness the beautiful architecture and immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance. Afterward, explore the local markets, including the famous Alappuzha Canal Market, where you can shop for traditional handicrafts and fresh produce. In the evening, enjoy a relaxing sunset boat ride on the Punnamada Lake.
Mullakkal Rajeshwari Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
Alappuzha Canal Market: Cost of purchases, 2-3 hours
Punnamada Lake Boat Ride: INR 500-800 per person, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Indian Coffee House, a popular local cafe that serves delicious South Indian breakfast dishes like dosa and idli. The average cost for a meal here is about INR 150 per person.
If you're looking for a great lunch spot, try the Alleppey Houseboat Restaurant, which offers a unique dining experience on a traditional houseboat. Enjoy fresh seafood delicacies while floating on the mesmerizing backwaters. The average cost for a meal here is about INR 500 per person.
For dinner, check out Chakara Restaurant, known for its authentic Kerala cuisine. Indulge in local specialties like appam with stew and Malabar fish curry. The average cost for a meal here is about INR 300 per person.
Friday, October 6, 2023: Explore the Backwaters
Embark on a full-day houseboat cruise through the stunning backwaters of Alappuzha, experiencing the tranquility and scenic beauty of Kerala's rural landscapes. Indulge in traditional Kerala cuisine prepared on board and enjoy the serenity of the surroundings. Witness the vibrant village life and interact with the locals during stops along the way.
Full-Day Houseboat Cruise: INR 10,000-15,000 per boat, 6-8 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Hot Breads where you can enjoy a variety of freshly baked goods such as pastries, bread rolls, and sandwiches. The average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, stop by Mushroom Restaurant which offers a wide range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes including their specialty mushroom-based dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
For dinner, dine at Cassia Restaurant where you can savor delicious seafood delicacies like grilled fish and prawns, accompanied by a scenic view of the backwaters. The average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Saturday, October 7, 2023: Alleppey Sightseeing
Spend the day exploring the cultural sites of Alleppey, starting with a visit to the Krishnapuram Palace, renowned for its exquisite architecture and mural paintings. Afterward, head to the Revi Karunakaran Museum, which showcases a collection of antique artifacts and traditional art forms. In the evening, witness a mesmerizing Kathakali performance, a classical dance-drama of Kerala.
Krishnapuram Palace: INR 20 per person, 2-3 hours
Revi Karunakaran Museum: INR 50 per person, 1-2 hours
Kathakali Performance: INR 300-500 per person, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Alleppey is Café Catamaran, known for its delicious South Indian fare. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Hassan's Restaurant, a local favorite known for its authentic Kerala cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
In the evening, dine at Mushroom Restaurant, known for its waterfront setting and delectable seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Sunday, October 8, 2023: Marari Beach Retreat
Escape to the tranquil Marari Beach, located just a short distance from Alappuzha. Spend the day relaxing on the sandy shores, taking refreshing dips in the Arabian Sea, and enjoying the peaceful ambiance. Indulge in beachside activities like beach volleyball and sandcastle building. Witness a breathtaking sunset before returning to Alappuzha.
Marari Beach: Free, 4-6 hours
Restaurants
Breakfast: Enjoy a traditional Kerala breakfast at Indian Coffee House. Try their delicious dosas and vadas, and savor a cup of their aromatic filter coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 100 INR per person.
Lunch: Head to Dreamers Restaurant for a tasty seafood lunch. Feast on freshly caught fish and prawns prepared in various delicious Kerala-style dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Dinner: For a memorable dinner experience, dine at Mushroom Restaurant. Indulge in their wide range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian specialties, including their famous mushroom-based dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Monday, October 9, 2023: Cherthala Exploration
Head to nearby Cherthala for a day of exploration. Start with a visit to the beautiful St. Mary's Forane Church, an architectural marvel with stunning murals. Explore the ancient Cherthala Market, known for its spices and traditional artifacts. In the afternoon, take a serene walk through the Kottaram Temple grounds, surrounded by peaceful nature.
St. Mary's Forane Church: Free, 1-2 hours
Cherthala Market: Cost of purchases, 2-3 hours
Kottaram Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Cafe Coffee Day in Cherthala. They offer a variety of breakfast options such as sandwiches, pastries, and coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 200 rupees per person.
Lunch at Hotel Saravana Bhavan in Cherthala, known for its South Indian cuisine. Enjoy flavorful dosas, idlis, and curries. Average cost for a meal is about 250 rupees per person.
For dinner, visit Grand Pavilion Restaurant in Cherthala. They serve delicious seafood dishes like fish curry and prawns. Average cost for a meal is about 400 rupees per person.
Tuesday, October 10, 2023: Departure
Wrap up your trip to Alappuzha with a visit to Alappuzha's Nehru Trophy Boat Race House, where you can learn about the famous boat races of Kerala. Bid farewell to this enchanting city and carry beautiful memories of the backwaters back home!
Nehru Trophy Boat Race House: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Diem, known for its delicious homemade pastries and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about ₹150 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Cassia Restaurant, which offers a wide range of local delicacies and seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner experience at Dreamers Multi Cuisine Restaurant, where you can enjoy a variety of cuisines including Indian, Chinese, and Continental. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Alappuzha, make sure to visit the lesser-known Pathiramanal Island, a beautiful island situated in the midst of Vembanad Lake. It is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, offering an opportunity to spot a wide variety of migratory and resident birds. Another off the beaten path attraction is the Kayamkulam Lake, perfect for a calm and serene boat ride away from the crowds.