Hotels in Alleppey

Alleppey, known locally as Alappuzha, sits on Kerala's backwaters, 155 km south of Kochi. The best bases are near the Boat Jetty for houseboat departures on Vembanad Lake, Alleppey Beach for the 137-year-old pier and sunset views, and Mullackal for budget stays near the temple and bus stand. Most visitors stay one to two nights before or after a houseboat cruise.

Where to Stay

Properties clustered around the Punnamada Boat Jetty suit travelers booking a houseboat at dawn — many hotels here arrange pickup directly. Alleppey Beach Road offers sea-facing rooms near the lighthouse and the old pier, a short walk from the beach park. Inland, Mullackal near the Sree Krishna Temple has simpler guesthouses close to the private bus stand and Alappuzha Railway Station, useful for early departures.

Getting Around

Alappuzha's town center is walkable, but backwater access defines the city — canals cut through residential streets and auto-rickshaws remain the fastest way to reach jetties from hotels off the main road. Cochin International Airport is roughly 85 km north, about two hours by road via nh66. The train station connects to Kochi, Kollam and Thiruvananthapuram on the coastal line.

Practical Tips

• Best season: December to February for dry, cooler weather on the water.
• Houseboats: Book a day ahead in peak season; overnight cruises typically include meals.
• Snake Boat Race: Held on Punnamada Lake in August during the Nehru Trophy event.
• Currency and cards: Carry cash for smaller jetty-side vendors and rickshaws.