Alleppey known for the azure backwaters that necklaces the numerous villages. “Venice of South” - A name given to this beautiful place for the setting done by Mother Nature. Houseboats are the unique tourism attraction that you can find only in Alleppey. Alleppey is a must include destination in all the Kerala Tour Packages.
Alleppey has a rich and deep culture that dates back to the Portuguese era. This small town, long back, controlled the spice and rice markets in Kerala.
The main attractions in Alleppey are the houseboats, Arthunkal church, Alleppey beach. The snake boat race that is conducted on second Saturday of every year August attracts travelers from far off. Shikkara cruise through the narrow canals presents an opportunity to get to know the village life that co exists between land and water.
But, if you love rain, look no further, do visit during the monsoon season as well ie, between June to August.
Weather - Alleppey is known for the humidity. The temperature can rise up to 40+ degrees.
Places to visit in Alleppey
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Arthunkal Church
Built by Portuguese in 16th Century, this Basilica is a major pilgrimage destination in Kerala. The 10 days long Arthunkal Perunnal, celebrated annually, is a major event in Alleppey. Thousands of devotees from across Kerala come here to celebrate this grand festival.
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Ravi Karunakaran Museum
Ravi Karunakaran was a prominent industrialist who modernized the coir industry in Alleppey. He collected many artifacts during his travel across the globe. You can find the finest collection made of ivory and crystals. It is an amazing place to see a great collection of artifacts.
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Mannarashala Sree Nagaraja Temple
As in Myths, there is a temple dedicated to Naga Raja (King of snakes) in Alleppey. It is believed that childless couples who pray here are blessed with child. The temple ambience is divine. The temple compound is carpeted with the shades of many trees and it helps to reduce the humidity within the temple compound. This temple is a classic example of the rich and deep cultural heritage of Kerala.
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Krishnapuram Palace
47 kilometers away from Alleppey, this 2 storied building is a classic example of Kerala architecture and is known for the mural paintings. Built by the Travancore King, Anizham Thirunnal Marthanda Varama, the palace is mostly built by wood and the local materials.
“Gajendra Moksham”, a 53 SQ FT mural painting is the major attraction of this palace and one of the biggest mural paintings in Kerala.
Activities to do in Alleppey
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Houseboat Day Trip in Alleppey
Houseboats are the unique products of Kerala tourism. There is no better way to explore the backwaters other than a cruise through the narrow canals that necklaces numerous picture perfect villages where rural life is at its best. See how the paddy is cultivated below the sea level. Enjoy the sumptuous Kerala meals on the boat. Witness the sunset.
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Shikkara Boat Ride
How about cruising on a small motor boat through the narrow canals that necklace the many villages of Alleppey? This offers an excellent opportunity to see the paddy fields, coconut lagoons and the village life close by. The Shikkara takes you through the places that cannot be accessible on houseboats. Security measures like life jackets etc. are available in almost all the boats.