Best Places in Alappuzha
Alappuzha Beach & Lighthouse
This popular picnic spot features golden sand, gentle waves, and the remains of an old, 150-year-old pier. The beach is most famous for the majestic Alappuzha Lighthouse, a historical structure built in 1862.
Must-Do: Climb the winding teak staircase to the top for a panoramic, 360-degree view of the town, the backwaters, and the Arabian Sea (Open to visitors in the afternoons).
Pathiramanal Island
Meaning 'Sands of Night', this beautiful little island is situated in the Vembanad Lake and is accessible only by boat. Highlight: A protected sanctuary for migratory birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and nature photographers.
Marari Beach
Located a short drive from Alappuzha town, Marari is known for its pristine, tranquil, and less-crowded shores.
Vibe: Perfect for relaxation, wellness retreats, or simply enjoying the sunset in a peaceful, quintessential Kerala village setting.
History & Heritage
Discover the stories and artistry that define this region of Travancore.
Krishnapuram Palace
Located a short drive from Alappuzha, this magnificent 18th-century palace is built in the traditional Kerala architectural style (Pathinarukettu). It now functions as an archaeological museum. Must-See: Home to the largest mural painting in Kerala, the famous 'Gajendra Moksha' (The Salvation of the Elephant).
Revi Karunakaran Museum
A private memorial museum dedicated to the coir industrialist Revi Karunakaran. It houses an astonishing collection of crystal, porcelain, precious stones, ivory, and unique art pieces from across the world. Unique Display: The collection offers a fascinating look at the heritage of Kerala's coir industry and the owner's global collection.
Karumadi Kuttan
A short distance from the backwaters, this spot is famous for a half-broken, black granite statue of Lord Buddha, believed to date back to the 9th or 10th century. Significance: It serves as a tranquil, historical relic and a symbol of peace in the village of Karumadi. Religious & Spiritual Sites The town is a beautiful tapestry of different faiths, each with architecturally significant structures.
Ambalappuzha Sree Krishna Temple
One of the most revered and ancient temples in Kerala, known for its unique architectural style. Specialty: It is famous for its delicious Pal Payasam (sweet milk porridge) offered as prasadam (blessed food).
St. Andrew's Basilica, Arthunkal
This is one of the oldest churches in Kerala and is considered the largest shrine of St. Sebastian in the world. Architecture: It stands as a testament to the region's rich Christian history, drawing pilgrims and visitors with its grandeur.
International Coir Museum (Coir musium)
Location: Kalavoor, Alappuzha District. It's located on the highway connecting Alappuzha to the rest of Kerala. Significance: Established by the Coir Board of India, it is the world's first and currently only International Coir Museum. It showcases the history, evolution, traditional processes (like retting and fibre extraction), and technological advancements in the coir industry (coir is a natural fiber from coconut husks, often called the "Golden Fibre" of Kerala). What to See: Historical artifacts, traditional tools, modern machinery, live demonstrations of spinning and weaving, a short video film, and a souvenir shop selling coir handicrafts and products. Timing: Generally open from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM on all days, but closed on Mondays (It's always best to check current timings before a visit).
Kainakary Boat Terminal (kainakari boat terminal)
Location: Kainakary village in Kuttanad Taluk, Alappuzha District. Significance: This is a major boarding point and terminal for backwater cruises. Kainakary is a beautiful, serene village in the heart of the Kuttanad region (known for its below-sea-level paddy fields). Boating: Tourists can hire houseboats and Shikara boats from here for tours through the Vembanad lake and the narrower backwater canals. It's known for its scenic beauty and sunset views. Access: It is accessible from Alappuzha town by road (auto/taxi) or by government-run boat services, which often stop at various Kainakary jetties.
Malarikkal Water Lily Point (Malarikal water lilly point)
Location: Malarikkal village, which is part of the Kuttanad region, primarily in the Kottayam district near its border with Alappuzha. Significance: It is famous for the spectacular, seasonal bloom of pink and white wild water lilies (Aambal in Malayalam) that cover vast paddy fields and waterways. Best Time to Visit: The bloom is a natural, seasonal phenomenon, usually occurring from August to late October (peaking around August-September), depending on the monsoon and water levels. Experience: The best time to see the flowers fully open is early in the morning (before 9:00 AM). Visitors take small canoe or Shikara boat rides through the lily-laden fields for an up-close experience. The sight of the hundreds of acres covered in pink is locally called Aambal Vasantham.