10 Places To Visit Near Alleppey For An Escape In South India

Alleppey, or Alappuzha, is a beautiful town in Kerala, located on the southernmost tip of India. Rightly called the ‘Venice of the East’ by Lord Curzon, Alleppey is charming. It has an integrated network of canals, lagoons, and lakes. Alleppey is famous for its backwaters with more to explore. These are beautiful places to visit near Alleppey that are perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers. From the islands of Kumarakom to the stately architecture of Krishnapuram Palace, there is something for everyone.

Table of Contents

Top 10 Places To Visit Near Alleppey

Furthermore, here are ten places to visit near Alleppey, in details, to help you plan your next adventure.

1. Kumarakom

A splendid view from the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary; one of the best places to visit near Alleppey.

Photo: Ganesh Mohan T / Wikimedia Commons

Kumarakom is a cluster of islands on Vembanad Lake. It’s situated about 32 km from Alleppey. This village is a hamlet for backwater tourism and a bird sanctuary. Besides the houseboat cruise, the visitor can spend time in lakeside resorts with the view of birds visiting the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary, like herons, egrets, and Siberian storks. This 14 acre haven spreads over a portion of the Kuttanad area, renowned for its expansive stretches of paddy fields. Also, the major highlights of this village are fishing, canoeing, and local culture, represented by traditional music and folk dance forms.

Distance From Alleppey: 32 km

Suggested Read: Things To Do In Alleppey

2. Marari Beach

Away from the crowded beaches, Marari Beach shows one of the best sunset views.

Photo: Kainjock / Wikimedia Commons

Marari is quite a sedate getaway from hectic city life with its unblemished sandy shoreline, bordered by coconut palm trees. You can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and taking up Ayurvedic treatments from the resorts nearby. It is less commercialised which adds to the attractions of this beach in comparison with other reputed beaches. It provides an insight into the normal life of a local fishing community. A tourist can visit the nearby Mararikulam village to witness the villagers making coir.

Distance From Alleppey: 11 km

3. Pathiramanal Island

Boat rides to the Pathiramanal Island,serving as one of the best places to visit near Alleppey.

Photo: Navaneeth Krishnan S / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Situated 13 km away from Alleppey, Pathiramanal, meaning “Sands of Night,” is located at the centre of the backwaters of Vembanad Lake. A boat can help you reach this island. Additionally, this island has more than 90 local species and 50 migratory birds. The 10 acre island is away from all disturbances of the mainland. It is an ideal location for picnics and nature walks amidst this serene atmosphere and green foliage.

Distance From Alleppey: 13 km

Suggested Read: Shopping In Alleppey

4. Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple

Dedicated to the Parthasarathy form of Krishna, this temple has a great value to its followers.

Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons

Situated 15 km away from Alleppey, Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple is an ancient temple of Hindus that has enshrined Lord Krishna. Known for its excellent and outstanding Kerala style of architecture and palpayasam, this temple is serene.. Here, devotees get sweet rice pudding to eat which the temple prepares. One should witness Ambalapuzha Arattu, a festival celebrated in the temple.

Distance From Alleppey: 15 km

5. Chavara Bhavan

Posing as more places to visit near Alleppey, Chavara Bhawan is a sacred and ancestral treasure.

Photo: Media Works / Wikimedia Commons

Chavara Bhavan, the ancestral home of Saint Kuriakose Elias Chavara, a legendary Catholic priest and social reformer, lies 6 km from Alleppey. One of the pilgrimage centres with a small chapel is what this place turned into. You can spend time in the serene atmosphere and acquaint yourself with the life and activities of St. Chavara. You can reach by boat to enhance the spiritual and peaceful experience of the visitors. Besides, this centre hosts various religious and cultural programmes throughout the year.

Distance From Alleppey: 6 km

Suggested Read: Temples In Alleppey

6. Alappuzha Lighthouse

View of the breathtaking and historical asset of the Alappuzha Lighthouse from the breakwater.

Photo: Dr. Ajay Balachandran / Wikimedia Commons

The Alappuzha Lighthouse stands 28 metres high in the heart of Alleppey town. The year 1862 saw the construction of this historic lighthouse, providing broad vistas of both the Arabian Sea and the surroundings. Further, it has 144 steps that the visitors can climb up to the top to get breathtaking views, especially at sunset views. Besides, it hosts a small museum that displays maritime equipment and historical photographs.

Distance From Alleppey: Located within Alleppey town

7. Krishnapuram Palace

Majestic court of the Krishnapuram Palace; one of the best places to visit near Alleppey.

Photo: Onmyway22 / Wikimedia Commons

Located about 47 kilometres from Alleppey, Krishnapuram Palace is a veritable wonder of traditional Kerala architecture. Constructed by Travancore king Anizham Thirunal Marthanda Varma in the 18th century, this was the residence of the Kayamkulam rulers. There is now a really impressive museum with its collection of artefacts, including the famous Gajendra Moksham mural, which is one of the biggest found in Kerala and covers 49 square metres. It’s a place where visitors can view ancient ponds, traditional house styles of Kerala, Travancore-era antiques, and paintings.

Distance From Alleppey: 47 km

Suggested Read: Alleppey Nightlife

8. Punnapra Beach

With spectacular views of the waves and the horizon, this beach serves tranquillity.

Photo: Raviojha06 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Situated just 5 kilometres from Alleppey, Punnapra Beach is a serene and less-crowded beach perfect for a relaxing day by the sea. The golden sands and clear blue waters make it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Besides, the beach also offers opportunities for fishing and witnessing local fishermen at work. The calm and tranquil environment makes Punnapra Beach an excellent spot for a peaceful retreat.

Distance From Alleppey: 5 km

9. Kuttanad

Beauty of Kuttanad with its rice fields makes it a good fit in places to visit near Alleppey.

Photo: Bibin Das / Wikimedia Commons

Kuttanad, the “Rice Bowl of Kerala,” set in a chessboard of the labyrinth of shimmering waterways, is known for its massive underground area of locally available rice cultivation. One gets to see traditional farming amidst the panoramic view of green paddy fields. The colourful rustic life pulsating all over the vastness of the verdant paddy is unique in Kuttanad. This district is characterised by wide lakes, canals, and rivers, offering many opportunities for boat trips and watching wildlife.

Distance From Alleppey: 15 km

Suggested Read: Things To Do In Kerala

10. Thottappally Spillway

The serenity and usage of the Thottappally Spillway makes it one of the best places to visit near Alleppey.

Photo: Arayilpdas / Wikimedia Commons

About 20 miles from Alleppey is the amazing Thottappally Spillway, controlling river flow into the sea. Spillway, gorgeous surroundings, and views of Thottappally Beach are the main attractions. The visitors can take leisurely walks, marvel at the beauty of nature, and snap amazing pictures. The spillway is essential to the region’s irrigation and flood control systems. To see the lively local fishing scene, head down to the neighbouring Thottappally Fishing Harbour.

Distance From Alleppey: 20 km
Highlights: Picturesque surroundings, Thottappally Beach, fishing harbour, flood control structure
Best Time To Visit: November to March

The places to visit near Alleppey include tranquil beaches, bird sanctuaries, and cultural experiences. At each destination, one can witness the beauty of nature and the rich heritage of Kerala, making them just the right places to include in your vacation plan. Get ready, pack your bags, and head out for a memorable journey. Start designing your dream trip today with Trip XL.

Cover Photo: David Berkowitz / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any good beaches near Alleppey?

Yes, there are two lovely beaches close to Alleppey: Punnapra Beach and Marari Beach.

What is the significance of Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple?

Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple has a graceful structure in Kerala's architectural pattern. The place is noted for its Ambalapuzha Palpayasam, a sweet rice pudding which is distributed amongst visitors. The temple is the venue for the annual festival of Ambalapuzha Arattu. This includes traditional musical and dance performances by significant artisans.

How can I reach Pathiramanal Island, and what can I expect to see there?

Pathiramanal Island is located about 13 km from Alleppey in Vembanad Lake and can only be reached by boat. It is a paradise for birdwatchers. Here, more than 90 local species and 50 migratory birds are observed.

What is unique about Krishnapuram Palace?

Located about 47 kilometres from Alleppey, Krishnapuram Palace is a typical example of traditional Kerala architecture. The palace hosts a museum with a collection of artefacts, such as the Gajendra Moksham mural, which happens to be one of the largest in Kerala.

Can I visit the Alappuzha Lighthouse? What can I see there?

Yes, Alappuzha Lighthouse is open to visitors. This lighthouse displays a complete view of the Arabian Sea and other landscapes in Alleppey. One needs to climb 144 steps at this lighthouse to reach the top to get beautiful views, mainly during sunset. There is a maritime museum filled with historical display items.

Are houseboat stays available at destinations near Alleppey?

Yes, houseboat stays are popular in both Alleppey and Kumarakom. You can book a houseboat to cruise through the backwaters.

10 Nearby Places To Visit Near Alleppey For A Perfect Escape