3 Days in Alleppey for a Kerala Food Trip

Alleppey is a paradise for food lovers, especially if you enjoy fresh seafood, coconut-infused curries, and traditional Kerala flavors. I've spent years exploring the local eateries, from tiny thatched-roof shacks to bustling market stalls, and this itinerary covers the best bites in town. The food here is simple, flavorful, and deeply connected to the backwaters and coastal life.

Kerala, kerala
3 Days
Food
Custom Trip

Trip Highlights

Tasting fresh karimeen (pearl spot fish) grilled in banana leaf at a family-run toddy shop
Learning to make appam and stew with a local home cook during a hands-on cooking class
Exploring the Alleppey fish market at dawn to see the day's catch come in

Best Time to Visit

OctoberNovemberFebruaryMarch

Share Your Adventure

Spread the word about this amazing trip!

Day 1

Day 1 in Alleppey

Start your Alleppey adventure with its most iconic experiences—cruising the backwaters, exploring local markets, and savoring authentic Kerala cuisine.

Activities

Morning Backwater Cruise

Kick off your day with a serene houseboat ride through Alleppey’s famous backwaters. Glide past lush paddy fields, coconut groves, and quaint villages. Opt for a private or shared boat; the early morning light makes the scenery even more magical.

Alleppey Backwaters (starting from Finishing Point Jetty)7:00 AM - 10:00 AM (best to start early to avoid the midday heat)₹2000-₹5000 (varies by boat type)
Tips:
  • Book your houseboat in advance during peak season.
  • Carry sunscreen and a hat—the sun can be strong even in the morning.
Breakfast at Thaff Delicacy

After your cruise, head to this local favorite for a hearty Kerala breakfast. Try their soft appam with stew or puttu with kadala curry—both are staples you’ll find in every Alleppey home.

Thaff Delicacy, near Alleppey Beach Road10:30 AM - 11:30 AM₹100-₹300 per person
Tips:
  • Their banana fritters (pazham pori) are a must-try.
  • Ask for their homemade coconut chutney—it’s a game-changer.
Explore Alleppey Beach and Lighthouse
Explore Alleppey Beach and Lighthouse

Spend the late morning at Alleppey Beach, a relaxed spot with golden sand and swaying palms. Climb the 150-year-old lighthouse for panoramic views of the coastline and backwaters. It’s a short but steep climb, so wear comfortable shoes.

Alleppey Beach and Lighthouse, Beach Road11:30 AM - 1:00 PM₹10 (lighthouse entry fee)
Tips:
  • The beach can get crowded in the evening, so mornings are quieter.
  • Skip the swimming—the currents here can be unpredictable.

Must Try Foods

Karimeen Pollichathu (pearl spot fish grilled in banana leaf)
Kerala Sadya (traditional feast on a banana leaf)
Toddy Shop Pork Roast (local delicacy often paired with palm wine)

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Alleppey Railway Station (1 km from town center, 5-10 mins by auto)
Nearest Bus Stop
Alleppey KSRTC Bus Stand (frequent buses to Kochi, Kottayam, and nearby towns)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Autos and taxis are easily available; Uber/Ola operate here but autos are more reliable for short distances.

No destinations found for this itinerary

Day 2

Day 2 in Alleppey

Dive deeper into Alleppey's charm with visits to historic sites, local markets, and a taste of authentic Kuttanad cuisine.

Activities

Visit Krishnapuram Palace
Visit Krishnapuram Palace

Start your day with a trip to the 18th-century Krishnapuram Palace, known for its stunning Kerala-style architecture and the famous mural 'Gajendra Moksham'. The palace grounds are peaceful, and the museum inside offers a glimpse into the region's royal past.

Krishnapuram Palace, Kayamkulam9:00 AM - 12:00 PM (best to arrive early to avoid crowds)INR 20-50 per person
Tips:
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the palace grounds.
  • Don’t miss the small but beautiful pond near the entrance.
Explore Alleppey’s Local Markets

Head to Alleppey’s bustling local markets near the canal. The vibrant stalls sell everything from fresh spices and coconuts to handmade coir products. It’s a great place to pick up souvenirs and interact with friendly vendors.

Main Market Road, Alleppey11:00 AM - 12:30 PM (markets are liveliest in the morning)Free to explore (budget INR 200-500 for shopping)
Tips:
  • Bargaining is common, so don’t hesitate to negotiate.
  • Try fresh coconut water from a street vendor—it’s incredibly refreshing.
Lunch at Thakkaram Restaurant

For an authentic Kuttanad meal, stop by Thakkaram Restaurant. Their thali is legendary, featuring local specialties like karimeen pollichathu (pearl spot fish), avial, and banana chips. The rustic setting adds to the charm.

Thakkaram Restaurant, Alleppey Town1:00 PM - 2:00 PMINR 300-600 per person
Tips:
  • Ask for the catch of the day—it’s usually the freshest option.
  • Their jackfruit payasam is a must-try dessert.

Must Try Foods

Karimeen Pollichathu (pearl spot fish)
Kuttanad Thali
Jackfruit Payasam

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Alleppey Railway Station (1 km from town center, 5-10 mins by auto)
Nearest Bus Stop
Alleppey KSRTC Bus Stand (frequent buses to nearby towns)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Autos and cabs are easily available; negotiate fares before riding.

Day 3

Day 3 in Alleppey

A relaxed day diving into Alleppey's hidden gems, from serene canals to local crafts and flavors.

Activities

Punnamada Lake Kayaking
Punnamada Lake Kayaking

Skip the crowded houseboats and glide through Alleppey’s quieter backwaters by kayak. Punnamada Lake offers calm waters and lush greenery, perfect for a peaceful morning paddle. Local guides often point out kingfishers and otters if you’re lucky.

Punnamada Lake, near Finishing Point7:00 AM - 9:00 AM (best for cool weather and bird sightings)₹800-1500 per person
Tips:
  • Wear quick-dry clothes—splashes are inevitable!
  • Book with eco-friendly operators to support responsible tourism.
Visit the Coir Weaving Villages

Head to the outskirts where families have been hand-weaving coir (coconut fiber) for generations. Watch artisans turn husks into ropes, mats, and quirky souvenirs. Small workshops let you try spinning coir yourself—it’s harder than it looks!

Kainakary or Champakulam villages (15-20 mins by auto from Alleppey town)10:30 AM - 12:00 PM (villages are active in late morning)Free (but consider buying small items to support locals)
Tips:
  • Carry cash—most places don’t accept cards.
  • Ask politely before photographing artisans at work.
Lunch at Kream Korner

A no-frills local favorite for seafood straight from the backwaters. Their spicy pearl spot fish fry and karimeen pollichathu (fish wrapped in banana leaf) are legendary. Sit on the rooftop for breezy views of the canals.

Near Alleppey Boat Jetty1:00 PM - 2:00 PM (arrive early to avoid the lunch rush)₹300-600 per person
Tips:
  • Try the toddy (local palm wine) if you’re feeling adventurous.
  • Skip the rice—their Kerala parottas are flaky perfection.

Must Try Foods

Karimeen Pollichathu (banana-leaf-wrapped fish)
Toddy (fermented palm wine)
Ari Pathiri (rice flatbread with coconut)

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Alleppey Railway Station (1 km from town center; autos charge ₹50-80)
Nearest Bus Stop
Alleppey KSRTC Bus Stand (frequent buses to Cochin/Kottayam every 15 mins)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Autos and cabs easily available; negotiate fares before riding (Uber/Ola less reliable here)

Travel Tips

Carry small change - many street food vendors and small eateries don't accept cards
Don't miss the evening snack stalls near the beach - their banana fritters and parippu vada are legendary
If you're not used to spicy food, ask for 'mild' - Kerala cuisine can be fiery
Try toddy (local palm wine) with your meal, but be aware it's quite strong

Related Trips

Explore related trips for this destination

Other Popular Destinations

Explore itineraries for other amazing destinations

Itineraries by Destination