Things to Do in Alleppey Without a Houseboat: A 1-Day Itinerary

What Is Famous in Alleppey & Why It’s Worth Visiting

Alleppey, often called the Venice of the East, is famous for its serene backwaters, lush paddy fields, vibrant culture, and beautiful beaches. While most tourists come here for an overnight houseboat stay, there’s much more to explore beyond the boats.

 

 

So, is Alleppey worth visiting? Absolutely! Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or a couple looking for a romantic getaway, Alleppey offers a mix of offbeat experiences, hidden gems, and breathtaking scenery.

 

From kayaking through quiet backwaters to exploring local markets, cruising in a shikara, and unwinding on a pristine beach, you’ll find plenty of amazing things to do in Alleppey backwaters and beyond.

This 1-day Alleppey itinerary will help you plan the perfect trip—packed with top attractions, must-visit spots, and local experiences that will make your visit unforgettable.

 

 

🌅 Morning: Explore the Alleppey Backwaters with a Sunrise Kayaking Tour

If you’re wondering what is special in Alleppey, the answer is simple—its mesmerizing backwaters. But instead of a slow-moving houseboat, why not experience them in a more immersive and adventurous way?

 

Timing: 5:30 AM to 8:30 AM (Reporting time: 5:00 AM)

Customizable: We can adjust the timing on request.

🚣 Why Kayaking in Alleppey?

• Anybody Can Kayak! No prior experience or swimming skills are needed. Nadodi Kayaking’s tours are designed for first-timers, and our trained guides ensure a safe and fun experience.
• Access Hidden Canals: Unlike houseboats, kayaks can enter narrow waterways where you’ll see daily village life up close.
• Peaceful & Authentic: Paddle past fishermen at work, locals washing clothes on the banks, and lush greenery, all in absolute tranquility.
• A Photographer’s Dream: The golden morning light, reflections on the water, and unobstructed views make it perfect for capturing stunning shots.
• Budget-Friendly: Compared to houseboats, kayaking is more affordable while still offering an unforgettable experience.

Perfect for adventure seekers, solo travelers, photographers, and couples looking for an intimate experience.

 

👉 Book a guided sunrise kayaking tour and explore Alleppey’s backwaters the local way.

 

 

🍽️ Breakfast: Start Your Day with a Local or Café Breakfast

After kayaking, you’ll probably be hungry and ready for a delicious breakfast. Alleppey has great options depending on your preference:

☕ For a café-style breakfast:

• Borma Café: A laid-back spot with great coffee, smoothie bowls, and continental breakfast.
• Leventy8 Café: A cozy, stylish café serving pancakes, sandwiches, and fresh juices.

🥘 For a traditional South Indian breakfast:

• Saravana Bhavan: Famous for crispy dosa, idli, vada, and filter coffee.
• Aaryas Restaurant: Another excellent choice for authentic Kerala vegetarian food.

 

 

If your homestay or resort offers breakfast, you can also head back and enjoy a meal there before continuing your itinerary.

 

 

🚤 Late Morning & Afternoon: Shikara Ride with Traditional Kerala Lunch

If you still want a boat experience but without staying overnight, a shikara ride is a great option. Shikaras are small, covered boats that can navigate through smaller canals, offering a peaceful, up-close view of the backwaters.

Why Take a Shikara Ride?

• Comfortable & Relaxing: Sit back and enjoy the backwaters at a slower pace.
• Traditional Wooden Boats: These boats are beautifully crafted and provide a classic Kerala experience.
• Perfect for Couples & Families: Private rides are available, making them an ideal romantic or family-friendly experience.

Timing: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM (Flexible)

Includes: A stop for traditional Kerala lunch at a local backwater restaurant or homestay.

 

 

What’s on the menu?

• Karimeen Pollichathu: Kerala’s famous pearl spot fish wrapped in banana leaf.
• Prawns & Crab Roast: Freshly caught and cooked with aromatic spices.
• Vegetarian Kerala Sadhya: A traditional banana-leaf meal with rice, sambar, avial, and pickles.

 

We can help you book the same. Just click here.

 

🌅 Evening: Sunset at Marari Beach

• Just 20 minutes from Alleppey, it’s clean, peaceful, and less crowded than Alleppey Beach.
• Golden sands, swaying coconut palms, and a stunning sunset view make it perfect for relaxation.
• You can take a romantic beach walk or simply sit and watch the waves.

Alternative, if you’re planning to go to the Alleppey beach, just make sure you go to the North side of it. The southern part of Alleppey beach will be always crowded with tourists.

It’s a great idea to actually book your stay near the beach by the way.

 

 

 

 

🍽️ Dinner: Enjoy Authentic Kerala Cuisine

Best places for dinner in Alleppey:

• Thaff Restaurant: Great for Kerala meals & seafood.
• Halais Restaurant: A top choice for both vegetarian and non-vegetarian Kerala dishes.
• Cassia Restaurant: A relaxed spot with a mix of Kerala and international cuisine.

 

 

Final Thoughts: Is Alleppey Worth Visiting Without a Houseboat?

Absolutely! Alleppey offers so much more than just houseboats. Whether you’re exploring the backwaters by kayak, cruising in a shikara, relaxing at a scenic beach, or enjoying local food, this destination has something for everyone.

🎁 We can always help with booking your trip or making a custom package for you.

You can get more details using the below form!