Alleppey, known as the "Venice of the East," is one of my favorite places to relax and take in the natural beauty of Kerala. The backwaters, houseboats and peaceful surroundings make it a perfect spot to visit, whether you're with family, friends, or just looking for some quiet time. In this guide, I’ll share my personal experience from visiting the top 5 resorts in Alleppey in 2024. I’ve stayed at each of these resorts and I’ll help you choose the one that’s right for your trip.
I’ve been to Alleppey many times, and each season has its own special charm. But there are certain times when the weather is just right, making the whole experience much more enjoyable.
If you ask me, October to February is the perfect time to visit Alleppey, especially if it's your first time. The weather is pleasant, and you can enjoy everything this beautiful place has to offer.
During my stay at Sterling Lake Palace Alleppey, I found it to be one of the most peaceful and beautiful places I’ve visited. The resort is located right on the banks of Lake Vembanad which is India’s longest freshwater lake. The view of the lake from my room was amazing and the property itself is large and spread out, giving it a peaceful and calm feel.
I stayed in a cottage, and the room was spacious, clean, and comfortable. I really liked spending time by the island swimming pool which was one of the highlights of my stay. The staff were friendly and always ready to help.
The resort also offers many activities like kayaking, shikara rides and even a sunset cruise which was one of my favorite experiences. The food at the restaurant was tasty, especially the Kerala dishes, though I did feel that the prices were a bit on the higher side. It was a wonderful stay and I left feeling relaxed and refreshed.
| Address | Direct Map | How to Reach |
| Sterling Lake Palace, Alleppey, Kerala | Sterling Lake Palace Map | By Air: Nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, about 90 km away. |
| By Train: Nearest railway station is Kottayam Railway Station, around 64 km away. | ||
| By Road: Easily accessible by car or taxi from cities like Kochi and Kottayam. |
Malayalam Lake Resort in Alleppey was truly one of the most peaceful places I’ve stayed at. The wooden and bamboo structures gave it a rustic charm and being right next to the lake made the experience even more magical. Every morning, I enjoyed the quiet sound of the water and the boats passing by. The hospitality of Jeswin and his team stood out—they were incredibly helpful, always making sure I had everything I needed. Although the rooms were simple, the peaceful atmosphere and lake views made it worth every moment.
| Address | Direct Map | How to Reach |
| Malayalam Lake Resort, Alleppey, Kerala | Malayalam Lake Resort Map | By Air: Nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, about 83 km away. |
| By Train: Nearest railway station is Alappuzha Railway Station, around 4 km away. | ||
| By Road: Easily accessible by car or taxi from nearby cities like Kochi and Kottayam. |
Staying at Punnamada Resort felt like being immersed in the heart of Kerala’s backwaters. The resort is beautifully located on the Vembanad Lake and the traditional architecture added a special charm to the experience. I enjoyed the spacious, clean rooms with lovely lake views and the quiet surroundings were perfect for relaxation. The staffs were very cooperative and helpful.. The Ayurvedic spa and houseboat cruise were the highlights of my visit.
| Address | Direct Map | How to Reach |
| Punnamada Resort, Kottankulangara, Alappuzha, Kerala 688006, India | Punnamada Resort Map | By Air: Nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, about 85 km away. |
| By Train: Nearest railway station is Alappuzha Railway Station, around 7 km away. | ||
| By Road: Easily accessible by car or taxi from nearby cities like Kochi and Kottayam. |
My stay at Haven Alleppey Beach Villa was truly memorable. The villa is just a short walk from the beach. The rooms were clean and comfortable and the staff was incredibly welcoming. The pool was well-maintained. Whether I was relaxing by the beach or enjoying the villa’s amenities the entire experience felt like a perfect escape.
| Address | Direct Map | How to Reach |
| Haven Alleppey Beach Villa, Alappuzha, Kerala | Haven Beach Villa Map | By Air: Nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, about 85 km away. |
| By Train: Alappuzha Railway Station is around 5 km away. | ||
| By Road: Easily accessible via taxi or auto from nearby towns and cities. |
I had a great stay at Sterling Lake Palace Alleppey. The resort is right by Lake Vembanad and the views were amazing. My room was big and comfortable, and the staffs were very friendly. They have a fantastic pool and I really enjoyed the pool and doing fun activities like kayaking and taking a sunset cruise. The food at the Lakeside restaurant was really tasty, especially the local Kerala dishes and the spa was perfect for relaxing with traditional ayurvedic treatments.
| Address | Direct Map | How to Reach |
| Sterling Lake Palace Alleppey, Alappuzha, Kerala | Haven Beach Villa Map | By Air: Nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, about 85 km away. |
| By Train: Alappuzha Railway Station is around 5 km from the resort. | ||
| By Road: Taxis and autos are easily available from nearby towns. |
The Alleppey Backwaters are beautiful. I took a boat ride and it was one of the most peaceful experiences of my trip.The houseboats drifting slowly across the water were a sight to see, and I can’t recommend it enough if you want to experience the calm side of Kerala.
My Tip: Book a houseboat ride in the early morning or late afternoon for the best experience. You’ll avoid the heat and enjoy the sunrise or sunset.
Entry Fee: Varies depending on the houseboat or shikara ride. Houseboat rates start from ₹5,000 per day.
Activities: Houseboat rides, fishing, bird watching, photography.
Best Time to Visit: November to February, when the weather is cool and pleasant.
What to Bring: Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, camera, and light snacks.
Alleppey Beach is the perfect place to relax after a day of exploring. The soft sand and the gentle waves are just right for a peaceful evening. I walked along the shore during sunset and it was a magical moment. The beach wasn’t too crowded, so it felt like I had my own little piece of paradise.
My Tip: Visit the beach in the evening to catch the beautiful sunset. It’s a great way to unwind.
Entry Fee: Free.
Activities: Beach walks, swimming, sunset photography, beach volleyball.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon or early evening for a beautiful sunset.
What to Bring: Comfortable footwear, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a camera for capturing the sunset.
The Lighthouse is a must-see in Alleppey . It’s a short climb to the top but the views are worth it. You can see the entire town and the beach from up there. The lighthouse is well-maintained.
My Tip: Don’t forget to bring your camera! The views from the top are perfect for taking photos, especially if you love panoramic shots.
Entry Fee: ₹20 for adults, ₹10 for children.
Activities: Climbing the lighthouse, taking photos, exploring nearby sites.
Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon when it’s cooler.
What to Bring: Water, comfortable shoes, a camera, and some cash for the entry fee.
I visited Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary for a peaceful walk through nature. The sanctuary is home to many different birds, and I even spotted some migratory ones. The walking paths were easy to follow and the fresh air made it a perfect break from the city.
Entry Fee: Small entry fee.
Activities: Bird watching, walking.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning to see more birds.
What to Bring: Binoculars, a hat, and water.
My visit to Vembanad Lake was all about experiencing the calm waters. I took a boat ride across the lake and enjoyed the peaceful surroundings. The houseboats gliding across the water gave it a magical feel. The backwaters were clean and the greenery around the lake added to the beauty.
The ideal time to visit Alleppey is between November and February. During these months, the weather is cooler, making it more comfortable for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The backwaters and beaches are also best enjoyed during this time.
Light, breathable clothing is best since the weather can be warm and humid. Don’t forget to pack sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
The weather in Alleppey can get hot, so it's important to carry water with you, especially when you’re out exploring for long periods.
Alleppey is famous for its houseboats. If you're planning to stay on a houseboat, it's best to book in advance. Many houseboats also offer day trips if you prefer a shorter experience. Make sure the boat is clean and has all necessary facilities before booking.
For getting around the town, auto-rickshaws are the most convenient and affordable option. You can also rent a bicycle if you prefer a slower pace of exploring.
For longer distances, taxis or rented cars are easily available.
Kerala is known for its rich culture and traditions. When visiting religious sites like temples, it’s important to dress modestly and respect the local customs. Remove shoes before entering temples and avoid taking photos unless allowed.
Although card payments are accepted at larger hotels and restaurants, it’s always a good idea to carry cash, especially if you’re shopping in local markets or traveling to more remote areas. ATMs are available in town, but it’s wise to keep some money on hand.
Don’t miss out on trying the local food! Kerala’s cuisine is flavorful, and Alleppey offers plenty of places to enjoy traditional meals like appam, fish curry, and the famous Kerala sadya (a vegetarian feast). Always ask about the spice level if you’re not used to spicy food.
Alleppey is generally a safe place for tourists, but it’s always wise to keep your belongings secure while travelling. Be cautious in crowded areas, especially during festivals or busy seasons.
If you're lucky, you might visit during one of the many local festivals. Nehru Trophy Boat Race in August is a popular event, where you can watch traditional boat races. Attending a festival is a great way to experience Kerala’s vibrant culture firsthand.
My Tip:
When I planned my trip to Alleppey, I found getting there quite simple. Alleppey (also known as Alappuzha) is well connected by road, rail, and water, making it accessible from several major destinations in Kerala.
Activities: If you have time, explore houseboat rides, local food experiences, and backwater tours along the way to Alleppey.
The best time to visit Alleppey is from November to February. The weather is cool and pleasant, perfect for houseboat rides and sightseeing. Summers can be quite hot, while the monsoon season brings heavy rains, which makes the backwaters beautiful but might limit outdoor activities.
Alleppey is about 53 km from Cochin (Kochi), and it takes around 1.5 hours by road. You can take a taxi, bus or train. Taxis are the most convenient, and trains are affordable and scenic.
Some of the best activities in Alleppey include:
The distance from Alleppey to Kovalam is about 175 km and takes around 4.5 hours by road. You can take a taxi or bus. Taxis are more comfortable for longer trips.
Alleppey to Munnar is about 173 km and takes around 4.5 hours by road. I recommend hiring a taxi for a comfortable ride, especially since the roads are scenic but can be winding.
Yes, houseboats are very popular in Alleppey. You can book them in advance or find them upon arrival. Prices depend on the type of houseboat and the season. A full-day houseboat ride starts from around ₹5,000.
Here’s what I recommend bringing:
The distance from Alleppey to Thekkady is about 140 km, and the journey takes around 4 hours by road. A bus or private taxi is the best option. The road can be winding, so plan accordingly.
Varkala is about 117 km from Alleppey, and the journey takes around 3 hours by road. You can take a train or taxi.
Wayanad is about 305 km from Alleppey. It’s a long trip, taking about 8 hours by road. You can take a bus or hire a private taxi. I recommend breaking the journey into parts if needed.
16/10/2024
Thanks to Sujith’s blog, we decided to visit Alleppey during the winter months, and it was a fantastic trip! The guide on the top 5 resorts really helped us pick Sterling Lake Palace, which lived up to the hype. The location by the lake was so peaceful, and the sunset cruise was magical. We followed Sujith’s tips, and everything went smoothly, from booking the resort to finding activities. Can't wait to go back again next winter!
Arjun Patel
17/10/2024
We booked Malayalam Lake Resort based on Sujith’s recommendation, and it was such a peaceful escape. The views of the lake were breathtaking, and the quiet atmosphere was just what we needed. Sujith’s tip about visiting during the quieter summer months really helped us get a good deal on the stay. His advice on what to pack and how to get there made planning so much easier. I’ll definitely use Sujith’s guide for future trips to Kerala.
Priya Menon
29/08/2024
Sujith’s guide made our trip to Alleppey so easy! We booked Haven Alleppey Beach Villa, and it was perfect for our family. The villa is so close to the beach, just like Sujith mentioned, and my kids loved the pool and game zone. His advice on traveling from Cochin was super helpful—we had no trouble getting a taxi from the airport. We also used his tip about visiting the beach in the evening for the sunset—it was beautiful!
Rahul Nair
19/10/2024
We used Sujith’s guide to plan our visit to Alleppey, and it was incredibly helpful. We stayed at Sterling Lake Palace and loved every minute of it. Sujith’s recommendation to take the sunset cruise was one of the best parts of our trip. The blog gave us clear directions, and his tips on what to pack for the backwaters were spot on. Can’t thank Sujith enough for helping us plan such a relaxing holiday!
Deepak Sharma
23/10/2024
Sujith’s guide made our trip to Alleppey unforgettable. We stayed at Punnamada Resort, and everything Sujith mentioned in his blog was accurate—the views of Vembanad Lake were stunning, and the houseboat cruise was a highlight. His tips on the best time to visit and what to pack were super useful. The whole trip was so smooth, thanks to his detailed advice. I’d recommend his guide to anyone planning a trip to Alleppey!
Sangeetha Rajan
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Explore this resortHi, I'm Sujith. I was born in Kerala and I love to travel. I've explored many places in Kerala, from the beautiful backwaters to the cool mountains. Many people ask me which hotel to stay in or what places to visit. Instead of replying to everyone, I decided to start this blogᅳKeralaTripPlanner.org. This blog will help you find the best places to visit and the best hotels to stay in Kerala. I hope my tips make your trip easy and fun!
If you need any help planning your trip to Alleppey or anywhere in Kerala, or if you'd like me to write an article or share your travel experience, feel free to contact me.