Tucked away in the heart of Kerala, Alleppey (Alappuzha) is a picturesque town famous for its tranquil backwaters, lush paddy fields, traditional houseboats, and serene beaches. Often dubbed as the “Venice of the East”, Alleppey is not just a destination—it’s an experience that offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and relaxation. 🌊
Whether you’re seeking a rejuvenating houseboat stay, witnessing the grandeur of the Nehru Trophy Boat Race, or exploring coconut-fringed canals, Alleppey is a traveller’s paradise. This town holds a mirror to Kerala’s timeless traditions and is a must-visit for nature lovers, honeymooners, photographers, and those simply looking to escape the chaos of city life.
But before you soak in the calm of its waters, the first question is—how do you reach Alleppey? Let’s explore all the travel options: by bus, train, and flight, to help you plan your journey better.
How to Reach Alleppey
Reaching Alleppey is relatively easy thanks to its well-connected road, rail, and air network. Here’s a detailed breakdown of each mode of transport:
How to Reach Alleppey by Bus 🚍
If you’re looking for an affordable and scenic way to reach Alleppey, buses are an excellent option.
1. From Major Cities in Kerala
- Kochi to Alleppey: Just 53 km away, you can board a KSRTC or private AC bus from Ernakulam (Kochi). The journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Trivandrum to Alleppey: Around 150 km, with frequent KSRTC buses taking about 4–5 hours.
- Kottayam to Alleppey: A short 45 km drive with multiple state-run buses covering the route in about 1.5 hours.
2. From Other South Indian Cities
- Bangalore to Alleppey: Several overnight sleeper and Volvo buses (private and KSRTC) cover the 590 km distance in 12–14 hours.
- Chennai to Alleppey: Buses take 13–15 hours, covering nearly 750 km.
- Coimbatore to Alleppey: Roughly 6–7 hours, with both government and private services available.
3. Bus Booking Tips
- Platforms like Paytm help you compare timings, fares, and book hassle-free.
- Choose Volvo AC sleepers for long-distance comfort.
- Book in advance during tourist season (October to February) and festival periods like Onam or Nehru Boat Race.
Book buses to Alleppey on Paytm.
How to Reach Alleppey by Train 🚂
Trains are one of the most convenient and budget-friendly ways to travel to Alleppey.
1. Alleppey Railway Station (Code: ALLP)
- Located close to the town centre and well-connected to major Indian cities.
- You can find direct trains to Alleppey from cities like Kochi, Trivandrum, Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Delhi.
2. Popular Trains to Alleppey
- Chennai-Alleppey Express (Train No. 22639)
- Trivandrum-Alleppey Express (Train No. 16304)
- Ernakulam-Alleppey Passenger (Train No. 56381)
- Bangalore-Kanyakumari Express (via Alleppey)
3. Travel Time (Approximate)
- Kochi to Alleppey – 1.5 hours
- Bangalore to Alleppey – 12–14 hours
- Chennai to Alleppey – 13–15 hours
- Mumbai to Alleppey – 30+ hours
4. Booking Tips
- Use Paytm for easy booking and live train status.
- Opt for overnight sleeper coaches or AC 2-tier for long journeys.
- Book at least 2–3 weeks in advance during peak season.
How to Reach Alleppey by Flight ✈️
If you’re travelling from northern India or abroad, flying is the fastest way to reach Alleppey.
1. Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (COK)
- Located about 83 km from Alleppey.
- Well-connected with all major cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and international hubs like Dubai, Singapore, and Colombo.
2. How to Reach Alleppey from Cochin Airport
- By Taxi/Cab: A Private taxi takes around 2–2.5 hours, costing ₹2000–₹3000.
- By Bus: KSRTC runs AC buses from the airport to Alleppey or Ernakulam (from where you can change buses).
- By Train: Take a cab or bus to Aluva or Ernakulam station, then board a train to Alleppey.
Top Things to Do in Alleppey
1. 🌊 Stay on a Traditional Houseboat
No trip to Alleppey is complete without experiencing a stay on a Kettuvallam—the traditional Kerala houseboat. Once used for transporting goods, these houseboats have been transformed into floating cottages equipped with cosy bedrooms, attached bathrooms, lounges, and kitchens.
- Types of Cruises: Choose from day cruises (4–6 hours) or overnight stays that include full-board meals.
- Experience: As you drift through the tranquil backwaters, you’ll pass by lush paddy fields, coconut groves, and traditional village life.
- Meals Onboard: Relish authentic Kerala delicacies like Karimeen fry and coconut-rich curries freshly cooked by onboard chefs.
Tip: Book a houseboat in advance during the peak season (Oct–Feb) and request a sunset cruise for an unforgettable experience.
2. 🛶 Explore the Backwaters by Canoe
For those seeking a more intimate and eco-conscious way to explore Alleppey’s backwaters, canoe rides are ideal. These small wooden boats allow you to paddle through narrow canals that houseboats can’t access.
- Why Choose Canoes: They’re quiet, pollution-free, and offer a chance to explore hidden villages and temples off the tourist radar.
- Perfect For: Nature enthusiasts, bird watchers, and photography lovers.
Pro Tip: Early morning and late afternoon rides are best for catching golden light and spotting birds like kingfishers and herons.
3. 🏖️ Visit Alleppey Beach
Stretching along the Arabian Sea, Alleppey Beach is where golden sands meet palm-lined shores. It’s a great place to unwind after a day on the backwaters.
- Things to Do: Stroll along the ancient pier, watch vibrant sunsets, or simply relax on the sand.
- Nearby Attractions: Don’t miss the Alleppey Lighthouse, built in 1862—one of the oldest lighthouses in Kerala.
Best Time to Visit: Evening hours, especially between 5 PM and 7 PM, when local snacks and beachside vendors come alive.
Tourist places to visit in Kerala
4. 🚣 Attend the Nehru Trophy Boat Race
Held annually on the second Saturday of August, the Nehru Trophy Boat Race on Punnamada Lake is a cultural spectacle like no other.
- Highlights: Watch massive ‘Chundan Vallams’ or snake boats—each with over 100 rowers—race in unison to the beat of traditional drums and songs.
- History: Named after Jawaharlal Nehru, who was so impressed by the race that he donated the trophy in 1952.
Insider Tip: Arrive early or book VIP seats/tour packages to get the best view of the action.
5. 🏛️ Explore Krishnapuram Palace
Located in Kayamkulam, around 47 km from Alleppey, the Krishnapuram Palace is an architectural gem from the 18th century, built during the reign of Marthanda Varma.
- What to See: The palace is known for its traditional Kerala-style gabled roofs, intricate wooden carvings, and the massive mural “Gajendra Moksham”—the largest of its kind in Kerala.
- Museum Collection: Explore artefacts like bronze sculptures, ancient coins, and royal weaponry.
Time Required: 1.5–2 hours. Pair it with a day trip to Kayamkulam Beach.
6. 🛕 Visit Ambalapuzha Sri Krishna Temple
Located 14 km from Alleppey, the Ambalapuzha Temple is a revered shrine dedicated to Lord Krishna and an essential stop for spiritual seekers.
- Architectural Style: True to Kerala tradition with a copper-clad roof, stone carvings, and mural paintings.
- Must-Try: Don’t leave without tasting the Ambalapuzha Palpayasam—a sweet rice pudding made with milk, sugar, and rice, served to devotees as prasadam.
Fun Fact: The temple is often called the ‘Dwaraka of the South’ for its legendary association with Lord Krishna.
7. 🌴 Relax at Marari Beach
If you prefer a quiet, offbeat escape, head to Mararikulam, just 11 km from Alleppey town. Marari Beach is a pristine stretch perfect for those seeking solitude and natural beauty.
- Activities: Practice yoga at sunrise, indulge in Ayurvedic massages, or simply laze around with a book under a palm tree.
- Stay Options: Choose from boutique beachfront resorts, eco-friendly homestays, and luxury tents.
Recommended For: Couples, solo travellers, and anyone wanting to disconnect from the digital world.
8. 🍛 Try Authentic Kerala Cuisine
Your visit to Alleppey is incomplete without diving into the region’s flavour-rich, coconut-infused cuisine. From seafood delights to vegetarian feasts, Alleppey’s food is a sensory celebration.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Karimeen Pollichathu: Pearl spot fish marinated in spices, wrapped in banana leaf, and pan-fried.
- Appam with Stew: Soft rice pancakes paired with a delicate coconut milk-based vegetable or meat stew.
- Avial: A medley of vegetables cooked in a yoghurt-coconut gravy.
- Kerala Sadya: A traditional vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf with over 20 dishes.
Best Time to Visit Alleppey 🕐
- Peak Season (October to February): Pleasant weather, ideal for houseboats and sightseeing.
- Monsoon (June to September): Lush green landscapes, Ayurvedic treatments are popular, but heavy rain may limit some activities.
- Summer (March to May): Hot and humid, but less crowded and good for budget travel.
Travel Tips for Visiting Alleppey 📜
- Carry sunscreen, hats, and mosquito repellent, especially for backwater tours.
- Book houseboats and hotels in advance during festival time.
- Try local buses, auto-rickshaws, or bicycles to explore the town.
- Respect the eco-sensitive backwaters by minimising plastic use.
Conclusion: Your Journey to Alleppey Awaits! 🤩
Alleppey is more than a destination—it’s a soothing escape into Kerala’s calm and culture-rich embrace. Whether you’re floating on backwaters in a charming houseboat, indulging in delicious seafood, or capturing sunsets at Marari Beach, Alleppey promises memories that will stay with you forever.
Now that you know how to reach Alleppey by bus, train, and flight, planning your trip is easier than ever. So, pack your bags and let the backwaters guide your soul to serenity.
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