Aaaand breathe. A world away from the colourful chaos that is the majority of India, you can expect a slow and relaxed change of pace in Alleppey. As the hub of Kerala’s backwaters, it has been coined the ‘Venice of the East’. Swap old Italian churches for palm trees and you get the idea.
What Alleppey lacks in tourist attractions, it makes up for in charm. Have a walk around the old town and take in the lively atmosphere of the wholesale market. Or wander through the many food stalls, chat to the vendors and sample some tasty treats.
But you’ll remember Alleppey for its backwaters. Once away from the town, the wide rivers flow alongside lush green rice fields, coconut groves and tiny rural villages that buzz with life. In what – at times – can be an overwhelmingly hectic country, Alleppey’s the place to sit back, put your feet up and watch the world go by. Float along the river on a traditional houseboat, your only disturbance being the sounds of children playing or women washing their clothes in the water. Oh, and prepare yourself for a sunset to die for.
The chilled out vibe in Alleppey is perfect for slowing down and getting to know the locals. On your tour of Alleppey, pencil in time to sit down with them and chat over home-cooked food or a chai.
If you’re wondering what to do in Alleppey, you can’t go wrong with a scenic backwater excursion. However, there are a few places in town that are definitely worth a visit. Think mooching around markets and exploring the old Gujarati Quarter. If you’re a foodie, take in the local food market. The variety, colours and smells of the stalls are a real sensory explosion.
But when it comes to Alleppey attractions, there’s one experience that tops the list - floating serenely down the river, soaking up the evening sun. Bliss. Glide past palm trees, catch a glimpse of village life, and sample some of the incredible food cooked by your very own chef.
There’s something special about Alleppey. Use your time here to rest, recharge and absorb the natural beauty of the place.