15 Best Things to Do in Alleppey (Alappuzha): Top Activities in 2025
Alleppey is a picturesque town set on the banks of the backwaters in the state of Kerala. The fluttering houseboats, the serene palm-fringed canals, and the gentle landscape all paint a picture of a land that offers soothing reprieve as well as some potent adventures. In case you are interested in attractions and things to do while you stay for a few hours or days, Alleppey has them aplenty.
Things to Do in Alleppey (Alappuzha), Kerala
Let’s explore the 15 top things to do in Alleppey, especially if you find yourself wondering how to really fill in a day or two over the weekend.
1. Cruising the Backwaters in a Houseboat
In the context of things to do in Alleppey, what will stay etched in the mind would be a houseboat gliding through calm backwaters. One of the best things to do in Alleppey is this experience that holds huge value and must not be missed. In case you want to choose a time frame to suit your interests, there is the possibility to select a one-day backwater houseboat cruise or to stay overnight.
Back for a 1-day trip to Alleppey, a 4-hour backwater cruise is perfect to get introduced to the scenic beauty of Kerala. But for those with the luxury of things to do in Alleppey in 2 days, the houseboat stay for an overnight will let you witness the sunset, have fresh Kerala cuisine onboard and eventually fall asleep with the lull of water sounds.
3. Watch the Sunset at Alappuzha Beach
Looking for things to do in Alleppey at night? Head straight to Alappuzha Beach. As the sun sets at the Beach, it becomes quite lively with local populations and tourists gathering to take in the sea breeze and admire the golden skies. The 150-year-old Alleppey Lighthouse nearby adds a touch of old charm, great for some nostalgic photos.
Great for the family to relax together, and if you’re seeking things to do in Alleppey with the family, this has to be on your list. There are a few eateries along the beach, playgrounds for children, and ice-cream vendors that just melt in your mouth.
3. Explore the Revi Karunakaran Museum
If art, antiques, and architecture are your thing, add the Revi Karunakaran Museum to your list of things to do in Alappuzha, Kerala. The museum features some interesting exhibits, including ivory, Tanjore paintings, Swarovski crystals, and Kerala artifacts.
Quite offbeat but definitely amongst the top things to do in Alleppey when you want a break from beaches and backwaters. Suitable for families, couples, and solo travelers, the museum will further give an insight into the rich cultural fabric of Alleppey.
Also read: Historical Places in Kerala that You Must Visit
4. Visit the Ambalappuzha Sree Krishna Temple
This temple is one of those spiritual spots in Alleppey, with a rich culture yet immense serenity. The temple is famous for offering Paayasam to the lord (a sweet rice pudding). Being such a serene place makes it one of the great things to do in Alleppey with family.
If you’re not so religious, the temple can be your place for deep contemplation and a calming experience. So, in case you are thinking about what to do in Alappuzha other than hitting the water, let this heritage temple offer a spiritual lift to your itinerary.
5. Visit Temples in Alleppey
Apart from the famous Ambalappuzha Sree Krishna Temple, Alleppey is home to many other ancient shrines that reflect Kerala’s spirituality and culture. These famous temples in Alleppey are not just religious places but also showcase traditional architecture, colorful rituals, and local festivals. Whether you are seeking blessings or cultural exploration, visiting temples in Alleppey is a must-do.
6. Canoe Through the Village Canals
For a very different introverted kind of backwater experience, do away with the bulky houseboats and do a bit of canoeing through the narrow village canals. This experience brings you closer to the real life of Alleppey, with people fishing, kids going to school in boats, and ladies washing clothes on the banks.
It is an eco-tourist and culture buff’s dream, hence it made the list of top things to do in Alleppey in 1 day. This provides a perfect look at life in Alappuzha in its raw and authentic form, which cannot be experienced on the tourist-packed houseboats.
7. Try Local Kerala Cuisine at a Toddy Shop
For all the gastronomes out there. Among the best things to do in Alleppey is to eat like the locals do, at a toddy shop. Toddy is a mildly alcoholic drink made from coconut nectar. It is typically consumed alongside spicy Kerala-style cuisine, such as fish curry, tapioca, and beef fry.
These toddy shops are also a great place to try some of the famous food in Alleppey, giving you a real taste of Kerala’s authentic flavors. While it may not be safe for children, this has to be a must-do for food enthusiasts.
8. See Snake Boat Races (Seasonal)
Being there in August or September is rare luck. The renowned Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race is an adrenaline-charged event and one of the best things to do in Alappuzha. Enormous traditional boats, with at least 100 rowers, race through the backwaters amid cheers from numerous spectators.
Besides the big event, many villages still hold smaller races of their own: one must see the snake boat races for the excitement it offers as well as a dash of local celebration.
Also read: National Parks in Kerala | List of Famous National Parks
9. Buy Handicrafts and Coir Products
Alleppey is renowned for the coir industry, and the local markets will show you the reason for the same. You will find a variety of handmade mats, carpets, bags, and souvenirs carved coir and jute.
Two more lesser-known activities in Alleppey for the family—a great way to browse and buy souvenirs and observe artisans at work. Eco-friendly stuff really are apt to be gifts for friends and family back at home.
10. Chill out at Marari Beach
This beach is about 11 km off Alleppey, far less touristy compared to that of Alappuzha. The palm-studded patch of sand is an ideal spot for solitude seekers.
Unnamed even for couples and solo travelers glancing for things to do in Alappuzha, sun and shore belong to its domain. One can find beach resorts and yoga retreats here, making it really suitable for a wellness-oriented trip.
11. The Ayurvedic Spa or Massage
Kerala is famous for its Ayurvedic treatments, and Alleppey glows with some of the best spa centers that provide traditional Ayurvedic massages and therapies. After a day spent on sightseeing or traveling, a full-body massage or herbal steam bath would greatly soothe one.
For whichever span of 1 or 2 days in Alleppey one plans, this is definitely one of the best things one could do for their body and soul. In fact, several resorts have Ayurvedic spas in their premises.
12. Sunset Kayaking Trip
Sunset kayaking must be a new addition for adventure lovers, for things to do at night in Alleppey. Gently row along the narrow channels, watch the birds flitting back home, and soak in the evening calm. It is far quieter and more beautiful than kayaking during the daytime.
You will be able to witness the sky changing colors with these hues being reflected in the water, thereby creating a perfect mirror image that is worthy of an Instagram pic!
13. Pathiramanal Island View
Located in the Vembanad Lake, Pathiramanal is a small island with stunning scenic beauty, making it an ideal spot for a quick day trip. You can either take a boat from Alleppey or Kumarakom to reach here. The island harbors exotic birds and a tranquil environment.
So, when considering what to do in Alappuzha, Kerala, this island getaway offers a mix of nature, good photography, and quiet time away from the crowds.
14. Alleppey Lighthouse
The Alleppey Lighthouse was built in 1862 and offers panoramic views of the town and coastline. Entering the spiral staircase will reward you with great photo opportunities and bird’s-eye views of the environs.
Consider Koothambalam-theaters, a swift stop in the itineraries for things to do in Alleppey in 1 day for all history buffs and view-chasers.
Also read: One Day Trip Places in Kerala | Kerala Popular Places
15. Have a Homestay Experience for Learning Village Life
Want to go beyond conventional sightseeing? Try traditional homestays where you experience Alleppey’s local life, food, and culture firsthand. This is suitable for visits lasting more than two days.
The homestay is value-for-money and one of the best things for a family to do in Alleppey. You’ll wake to the chirping of birds, sip on tea adjacent to the canals, and have authentic Kerala food-great memories!
FAQs About Things to Do in Alleppey
Alleppey is famous for its backwater houseboat cruises, beaches, temples, snake boat races, coir products, and Ayurvedic treatments.
1 to 2 days are enough to enjoy the main attractions like a houseboat cruise, Alappuzha Beach, temples, and a bit of local food.
Yes, a houseboat cruise is one of the best experiences in Alleppey. You can choose a 4-hour day cruise or an overnight stay on the houseboat.
At night, you can enjoy the sunset at Alappuzha Beach, go for a sunset kayaking trip, or relax in your houseboat under the starry sky.
Yes, Alleppey is great for families. Kids enjoy beaches, parents love the calm backwaters, and everyone can experience temples, handicrafts, and village life together.
You must try Kerala-style fish curry, tapioca, beef fry, and toddy (a coconut-based drink) at a local toddy shop
The best time is from November to February when the weather is pleasant. If you want to see the famous Snake Boat Race, visit in August.
Yes, in one day you can do a short backwater cruise, visit Alappuzha Beach, explore a temple, or try canoeing through village canals.
You can shop for handicrafts, coir products, mats, carpets, and souvenirs at local markets in Alleppey.
Yes, Alleppey is generally safe for solo travelers. Homestays and houseboats are good options for a comfortable stay.
Yes, many spas and resorts in Alleppey offer traditional Ayurvedic massages and therapies.
Canoeing through village canals, visiting the Revi Karunakaran Museum, staying in a homestay, or taking a trip to Pathiramanal Island are some offbeat experiences.
Conclusion
From backwater cruises to beach sunsets, temple visits to toddy shops, the things to do in Alleppey are so versatile and delightful. Whether here for 1 day or 2 days, travelling solo or things to do in Alappuzha with family, Alleppey has a pinch of magic stored away for everyone.
Still boggled about what to do in Alappuzha? Let this guide inspire your start, and with PlanYourTour, map the rest of your journey. Let the palm trees sway, let the water calm your soul, and let the spices greet your taste buds. Alleppey is not a place—it is an experience.
