Wednesday, June 27, 2018

Top 7 things to do in Allepey (Alappuzha), Kerala



The little town functions at its own pace and has something for everybody. You could just spend a few days here, and stop by just for one of the following things and you’re sure to have a great time!

#1 Watch the sunset at Allepey beach

It’s one of the more pristine beaches on the Western coast of India and offers some breathtaking views during sunsets. Though they don’t have beach shacks (like Goan beaches does), they do have some beach facing restaurants you could dine at. The main beach tends to get crowded during the day and evening, but it’s really empty during the day. Also, walk a kilometre along the coast and you reach an empty stretch where you can have the beach just for yourself.


#2 Explore the backwaters of Allepey

The backwaters of Allepey are one of the most hyped things about the place. And cruising through the narrow waters and exploring the villages around is sure mesmerising. Take a house boat, hop onto a public ferry or hire a motorboat of your own – there are so many ways of exploring this beautiful place. Read: Types of boats to explore the backwaters of Allepey.


#3 Ride around the pretty town of Allepey

Unlike the more crowded cities – Cochin and Trivendrum – Allepey is relatively more remote and has its own charm. There are hardly any cars or cabs on the street and you see so many people riding a bicycle, or walking or just sitting by the roadside. The entire town is interconnected with cannals and it’s a beautiful sight to cross these narrow bridges and see a lovely church or a mosque on the other end. The town in itself is very small, but not walkable. Renting a motorbike or bicycle is a good option.


#4 Relax at a beach-facing property in Allepey

The best part about this town is cheap accommodation, right by the beach! I got to stay at Zostel Allepey, right by the beach, and it was a steal. I hardly shelled out any money and got such a wonderful experience. Additionally, there are many resorts, hotels, BnBs and even tents overlooking the beach, and staying at one of this is sure a wonderful experience. You can just relax and unwind while in Allepey.


#5 Indulge in some local delicacies and visit a toddy shop in Allepey

Considering Allepey isn’t buzzing like the cities, the food offerings here are limited. You can either visit one of the arty cafes by the beach dishing out a globally infused menu, or try some local food. There are plenty of local restaurants and asking around should find you one. Additionally, when you’re on a boat ride, so stop by at one of the restaurants in the villages and try their delicious seafood. Also stop by at a toddy shop and munch on some local delicacies as you sip on some freshly tapped toddy.


#6 Take up a cooking class in Allepey

The laidback town has it’s own set of things to do. If you’re done walking around the narrow streets and lazing on the beach, engage in an interactive cooking class conducted by locals, and get to learn how to cook some local delicacies. Most of these classes are customised according to your requirements and the local aunties are happy to teach you cook your favourite items.

#7 Enjoy an ayurvedic massage in Allepey

There’s another thing Kerala is known for, in addition to their beaches and backwaters, is it’s ayurvedic massage. While many people come to Kerala for their ayurvedic treatments, rejuvenating with a nice ayurvedic massage in this little town is a great idea too. The rates are so much cheaper than getting a massage in the city and it’s such a great way to end your Kerala vacation!



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