ALLEPPEY & KUMARAKOM
The Backwaters, centering on Alleppey (Alappuzha) and Kumarakom, are the serene heart of Kerala, a network of brackish lagoons, lakes, and canals. This aquatic tapestry is famous for its iconic houseboats, offering an escape into a world of lush greenery and tranquil waters.
Alleppey and Kumarakom offer complementary backwater experiences: the former is a bustling hub of canals often called the “Venice of the East”, while the latter is a quieter retreat known for luxury resorts and a famous bird sanctuary. Together, they embody the unique, slow-paced charm of South Indian water-bound life.
Most Popular Attractions
Backwater & Water Experiences
Alleppey Houseboat Cruise: An iconic, traditional experience on a restored rice barge (Kettuvallam), often including an overnight stay on the water with meals prepared on board.
Kumarakom Houseboat Cruise: Offers a more tranquil, luxurious cruise experience, primarily focusing on the wider expanse of Vembanad Lake.
Shikara Boat Ride: A smaller, faster, open-sided boat offering a more intimate experience, perfect for navigating the narrow, shallow canals of the villages.
Canoe/Kayak Tours: The most personal way to explore the backwaters, allowing access to the smallest, most secluded village channels and paddy fields.
Vembanad Lake: The largest lake in Kerala and the longest in India, forming the broad, central body of water where many cruises take place, especially near Kumarakom.
Kuttanad: Known as the ‘Rice Bowl of Kerala’, this region is famous for its unique geography where rice cultivation is done on land that is below sea level.
Alleppey to Kumarakom Route: A classic full-day journey that connects the two main backwater hubs across Vembanad Lake.
Public Ferry (SWTD) Rides: The most authentic and budget-friendly way to see village life, using the government water transport for local commuting.
Nature, Wildlife & Outdoors
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: A paradise for ornithologists, located on the banks of Vembanad Lake, home to a wide variety of native and migratory birds, including the Siberian Stork.
Pathiramanal Island: A small, tranquil island in Vembanad Lake, accessible only by boat, and a prime spot for bird watching and seeking seclusion.
Marari Beach: A peaceful, secluded beach experience near Alleppey, offering a tranquil alternative to the busier city beach.
Alappuzha (Alleppey) Beach: A popular city beach featuring a historic 150-year-old lighthouse and an old pier.
Aruvikkuzhi Waterfalls (Near Kumarakom): A scenic 100-foot waterfall cascading through rubber plantations, popular for short treks and picnics.
Thanneermukkom Bund: A barrage built across Vembanad Lake to prevent saline water from entering the fields of Kuttanad, affecting the water ecology on either side.
Culture, History & Heritage
Krishnapuram Palace (Kayamkulam): An 18th-century palace built in the traditional Kerala architectural style, famous for its massive mural painting, the ‘Gajendra Moksham’.
Alappuzha Lighthouse: One of the oldest lighthouses on India’s southwest coast, offering panoramic views of the sea and the town.
Karumadikuttan: An 11th-century black granite statue of Lord Buddha, a protected monument and site of historical importance near Alleppey.
International Coir Museum: Highlights Alleppey’s historical importance in the coir industry, showcasing the process of making coir products from coconut husks.
Revi Karunakaran Memorial Museum: A private museum displaying an exquisite personal collection of art, crystal, porcelain, and other artifacts.
Bay Island Driftwood Museum (Kumarakom): A unique museum housing modern art created from driftwood pieces collected from the Andaman Islands.
Village Life Experience: Organized tours to experience coir-making, toddy tapping (fermented palm sap), local fishing, and traditional cooking demonstrations.
Temples & Spiritual Sites
Ambalappuzha Sree Krishna Temple: An ancient temple famous for its unique architecture and the traditional offering of ‘Ambalappuzha Palpayasam’ (sweet milk porridge).
Mullakkal Rajarajeswari Temple: A popular Hindu temple in the heart of Alleppey dedicated to Goddess Rajarajeswari, known for its annual Mullakkal Chirappu festival.
St. Andrew’s Basilica, Arthunkal: One of the largest shrines of St. Sebastian in the world, a significant Christian pilgrimage center near Alleppey.
St. Mary’s Forane Church (Champakulam): One of the oldest churches in Kerala, dating back to 427 AD, known for its annual feast.
Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple: A unique temple dedicated to the Serpent God, set in a dense forest, famous for its serpent idol statues.
Events & Wellness
Nehru Trophy Boat Race: A world-famous snake boat race held annually in August on the Punnamada Lake, drawing huge crowds.
Ayurveda & Wellness: Both regions are hubs for traditional Kerala Ayurveda treatments and spa massages, often offered at the luxury resorts in Kumarakom.
Activities & Experiences
Overnight Houseboat Cruise (Kettuvallom): Experience the ultimate backwaters immersion by spending a night aboard a traditional thatched houseboat. Enjoy a leisurely glide, watch the sunset, and savor a freshly prepared Kerala Sadya (traditional feast) on board.
Explore Narrow Canals by Canoe or Shikara: Hire a small, non-motorized country boat (canoe) or a covered Shikara boat to venture into the narrowest canals where houseboats cannot go, offering intimate glimpses of village life.
Witness Village Life on Foot: Take a guided Village Walk to see coir-making from coconut husks, toddy tapping (collecting palm wine), traditional fishing, and the cultivation of rice in the famed Kuttanad region (the rice bowl of Kerala, located below sea level).
Go Birdwatching at Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary: Visit this sanctuary early in the morning for the best chance to spot local and migratory birds like the Siberian Crane, egrets, herons, and kingfishers, especially between November and February.
Take an Ayurvedic Rejuvenation Treatment: Indulge in an authentic, therapeutic Ayurvedic massage or a longer wellness program at one of the luxury resorts or specialized centers in the area.
Try Toddy and Local Seafood at a Shack: Stop by a local toddy shack (called a kallu shappu) to sample toddy (mildly alcoholic palm wine) and pair it with spicy local delicacies like karimeen (pearl spot fish) fry.
Relax on Marari Beach: Just a short drive from Alleppey, enjoy the tranquility of the relatively pristine, quiet Marari Beach, perfect for unwinding after a backwater cruise.
Visit Pathiramanal Island: Take a boat trip to this small, uninhabited island on Vembanad Lake, a serene spot and a noted habitat for various migratory birds.
Learn to Cook Kerala Cuisine: Participate in a cooking class at a local homestay or resort to learn the secrets of dishes like Fish Moilee, Appam, and various coconut-based curries.
See the Alappuzha (Alleppey) Lighthouse: Visit the historic, 19th-century lighthouse near Alleppey Beach, and climb to the top for a panoramic view of the town and the Arabian Sea.
Attend the Snake Boat Race (Seasonal): If visiting in August or September (especially during the Onam festival), try to witness the spectacular Nehru Trophy Boat Race on the Punnamada Lake, a thrilling cultural event.
Local Tips & Transport
Water is the Highway: For inter-village travel, the Kerala State Water Transport Department (SWTD) ferries are the lifeline. They are the cheapest and most authentic way to travel long distances through the backwaters, connecting major jetties like Alleppey and Kottayam/Kumarakom.
Auto-Rickshaws & Taxis: Auto-rickshaws are abundant in the towns (Alleppey/Kottayam) and are the best mode of short-distance road travel. Taxis or private drivers are necessary for longer road journeys, such as transfers from Kochi Airport (Cochin) or between Alleppey and Kumarakom.
Train Access: The main railhead for the region is Alleppey (ALLP) for easy access to the town and its houseboats, or Kottayam (KTYM), which is closer to Kumarakom.
Note on Houseboats: Houseboat check-in and check-out are generally fixed (e.g., 12 PM to 9 AM). They cruise during the day and are required to anchor by early evening (around 5:30 PM) for the night due to local regulations and fishing nets.
The Pace of Life: The Backwaters operate at a slow, gentle pace—embrace it. The charm lies in sitting quietly and watching the world go by on the water. Don’t rush your experience; enjoy the tranquility.
Cuisine & Dining:
- Seafood Focus: The local cuisine is heavily focused on the produce of the region, which means an abundance of fresh fish (Karimeen and prawns are local specialties) and coconut in nearly every dish.
- Rice is Staple: Meals are typically served with Keralan matta (red) rice, which has a distinct flavor and texture.
Respecting Local Culture: The backwaters are home to many traditional and religious villages. Dress respectfully when walking through a village or visiting a temple/church (covering shoulders and knees is advisable).
Best Time to Visit: The most pleasant weather is during the Winter (November to February). The Monsoon (June to August) offers a unique, lush green experience, but boat movement can sometimes be affected by heavy rain.
Hidden Gems
- St. Mary’s Forane Church, Champakulam: One of the oldest churches in Kerala, located right on the Pamba River, a common stop on many canoe/shikara tours.
- Vembanad Lake Sunset: The widest part of the lake, particularly near Kumarakom, offers spectacular, unobstructed sunset views—perfectly enjoyed from the deck of a boat or a resort.
- Alleppey Beach Pier: Walk along the historic 150-year-old pier that extends into the Arabian Sea for a unique perspective of the coast.
- Coir Factories: Stop at a roadside or waterside coir unit in Alleppey to see how coconut husks are processed into fiber and made into mats and ropes—a fascinating local industry.
Top Restaurants
Durvankur [$8-$15] – Famous for its traditional, unlimited Maharashtrian thali (veg), offering a complete cultural dining experience with seasonal delicacies and a focus on authentic regional flavors.
Hotel Jagdamb [$8-$15] – Located slightly outside the city center, this spot is highly regarded by locals for its spicy, rustic Maharashtrian thalis, particularly the Kala Chicken and mutton variations.
Surve’s Pure Non-Veg [$10-$20] – A local chain specializing in traditional Maharashtrian non-vegetarian cuisine, well-known for their flavorful mutton, chicken, and egg thalis.
Dakkhan Spice [$10-$20] – Offers authentic and traditional Dakkhani cuisine from the region, featuring specialities like Gavran Crab Thali and Kolhapuri-style Tambda Pandhra Rassa (red and white curry).
Hotel Shreyas [$10-$20] – A long-standing, well-regarded pure vegetarian restaurant in Deccan, known for its consistent quality and traditional Maharashtrian dishes, including popular snacks.
Kataka Biryani [$8-$15] – Though the name suggests biryani, this local favorite is celebrated for its spicy, flavorful misal (a tangy, spicy sprouts curry topped with crunchy farsan and served with bread).
Bedekar Misal [$5-$10] – An iconic, old-school joint for one of Pune’s most famous dishes, the Misal Pav. A must-try for its unique, balanced flavor profile that draws a large local crowd.
Wadeshwar [$5-$10] – A very popular, bustling, pure vegetarian spot known for excellent South Indian food (like dosa and idli), though it’s an institution for general Maharashtrian and fast-food snacks as well.
Roopali Restaurant [$5-$10] – A traditional, no-frills institution on FC Road, famous for its quick service, South Indian snacks, and an old-school Pune café vibe.
Vaidya Uphar Gruha [$5-$10] – An unpretentious, tiny, and very old eatery in the old city, specializing in the original, traditional Misal with a unique Puneri (Pune-style) flavor.
Garden Vada Pav Centre [$3-$5] – A legendary street-food stall near the Camp area, famous for serving what many consider the best Vada Pav (potato fritter in a bun) in the city.
Sujata Mastani [$3-$7] – Known as the definitive place for Mastani, a thick, creamy milkshake mixed with fruit pulp, dry fruits, and topped with a scoop of ice cream—a Pune specialty.
Kayani Bakery [$5-$10] – A historic Irani bakery institution famous for its old-world charm and simple but addictive baked goods, especially the legendary Shrewsbury Biscuits.
Vohuman Cafe [$5-$10] – One of the last remaining, most authentic Irani cafes in the city, an institution for a simple, hearty breakfast of Bun Maska (buttered bun) and Irani Chai (tea).
Savya Rasa [$30-$50] – Specializes in the authentic, diverse cuisine of South India, ranging from Chettinad to Malabar, presented in a refined setting with a focus on deep, traditional flavors.
Dario’s [$20-$40] – While primarily Italian, it’s included for its unique location in a charming Koregaon Park bungalow, offering a beautiful ambiance for a relaxed, high-quality dining experience.
Copa Cabana [$20-$40] – Known for its elaborate setup and ambiance, this popular multi-cuisine restaurant (North Indian, Continental) offers a luxurious, resort-like feel, often with live music.
Tiranga Non-Veg [$15-$30] – Extremely popular among locals for its rich, spicy, and authentic Kolhapuri-style Mutton Thali and Biryanis, offering a consistently high-quality, robust-flavored experience.
Azzurro [$25-$45] – Located in the Western Ghats (Lonavala/Khandala region), this fine dining spot offers a high-end, multi-cuisine menu (often with good Continental and North Indian options) with excellent views.
Malaka Spice [$20-$40] – Though pan-Asian, it is a Pune institution known for its high-quality, consistently excellent food, artistic decor, and commitment to supporting local artists.
Feast India Company [$25-$45] – Offers a delightful array of Asian and North Indian cuisine in an upscale setting, known for a modern approach to traditional flavors.
Sarjaa [$20-$40] – An elegant restaurant known for high-quality North Indian cuisine and a sophisticated atmosphere, popular for family dining and special occasions.
Peter’s Pan [$20-$35] – A long-standing, beloved restaurant specializing in sizzlers (a continental dish of meat/vegetables served on a hot plate) and Continental food.
The Urban Foundry [$15-$30] – A trendy gastro-bar with a unique industrial-chic ambiance, offering an innovative menu of globally-inspired dishes with an Indian twist.
Cafe Good Luck [$5-$10] – A famous, historic Irani cafe near Deccan, celebrated for its simple but delicious non-vegetarian options like Keema Pav (minced meat with bread) and Bun Maska Chai.
Marz-O-Rin [$5-$10] – A classic, old-school cafe on MG Road, loved for its quick, cheap bites, especially its sandwiches and simple, comforting snacks like Macaroni and Cheese.
Good Butter Bakery [$10-$20] – A favorite among locals for high-quality, artisan baked goods, specializing in excellent sourdough bread, focaccia, and gourmet sandwiches/savories.
German Bakery [$5-$15] – An iconic cafe in Koregaon Park with a relaxed, bohemian vibe, famous for its baked goods, breakfast options, and global menu.
Idlicious [$5-$10] – Highly recommended by South Indian locals for its authentic South Indian fare, especially idlis and sambhar that are spicy rather than sweet.
Chopsticks Spice Malabar Restaurant [$10-$20] – A gem for authentic Kerala cuisine, known for its Malabar parotta, chicken Chettinad, and appam. They even serve the elaborate Onam Sadya meal on occasion.
Corn Club [$5-$10] – A unique local spot that specializes in creative and tasty corn-based snacks and dishes, including different corn pizzas and soups.
Banjara Hills (Chandni Chowk) [$15-$30] – Situated on a hill, this restaurant offers a lovely open-air terrace dining experience with a view of the city lights, specializing in North Indian cuisine.
Samspire The Mushroom Cafe [$10-$20] – Located outside the main city (closer to the Ghats region), this is a hidden gem that specializes entirely in mushroom-based dishes like Mushroom Keema Masala and Mushroom Galouti Kebab.
Pagdandi Books Chai Cafe [$5-$10] – A charming, laid-back cafe that doubles as a bookstore, known for its intellectual vibe, great selection of teas and coffee, and simple, wholesome snacks like Ciabatta Sandwiches.
Rajeshwari Snacks [$5-$10] – A simple, long-standing snack center near Kasba Ganpati mandir, famous for offering a wide, quality variety of classic Indian snacks like Misal, Vada Pav, and Puri Sabji at reasonable prices.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Cobbler & Crew: Located in Kalyani Nagar, this is an upscale spot known for its exquisite mixology, offering classic cocktails with a modern twist and innovative tipples in a vibrant ambiance.
QORA – Cocktail Bar & Kitchen: Situated in the vibrant Koregaon Park, this stylish venue features a carefully curated playlist and mixologists passionate about creating innovative concoctions, with a menu of fusion international flavors.
The Single Malt and Co.: Found inside the Hyatt Regency in Viman Nagar, this bar draws attention for its extensive collection of single malts and whiskey-based cocktails, offering a dim-lit, cozy setting for whiskey lovers.
The Urban Foundry (Baner/Koregaon Park): With a vintage industrial-style décor, this trendy pub in Balewadi High Street (Baner) and other locations offers a wide array of craft cocktails and international bar bites, often featuring live music.
Mix@36 (The Westin): A sophisticated rooftop bar in Koregaon Park Annexe (Mundhwa) offering a mesmerizing view of the Mula-Mutha River and the city skyline. It’s known for its delicious cocktails and sundowner parties.
Pasha (JW Marriott): A scenic rooftop resto lounge on Senapati Bapat Road, offering a surreal view of the city. It’s ideal for a romantic dinner or a celebratory occasion with a wide selection of concoctions and North Indian cuisine.
Code – The Speakeasy Bar: Pune’s first speakeasy bar, located in Kothrud, offering a laid-back, Prohibition-era atmosphere, delicious comfort food, and known for incredible live gigs.
Filament Bar: Found in Baner, this spot captivates with its vibrant ambiance, adorned with filament light bulbs, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for intimate conversations over signature cocktails like Smokey Negroni.
Elephant & Co. (Baner/Kalyani Nagar): A popular gastropub with a live music scene and a welcoming patio, known for its original ECO cocktails crafted by talented mixologists.
Effingut Brewerkz (Koregaon Park, etc.): While famous as a leading microbrewery known for its unique craft beers (like Mango Chilli cider), their mocktails and cocktails are also popular, all within an old-school, vintage-touch ambiance.
1000 Oaks: An iconic and historic pub located on East Street (Camp), a favorite among Punekars for its traditional yet contemporary hospitality, open garden area, and famous Barman’s Pitcher cocktail.
Hard Rock Cafe Pune: A vibrant, energetic rock ‘n’ roll-themed chain in Koregaon Park, offering classic American cuisine, an impressive drinks menu, and a music-infused atmosphere.
SWIG Bar & Eatery: A modish and chic resto-bar in Koregaon Park, known for its inclusive environment, live Hindi Fusion musical performances, and vibrant, artsy decor.
The Irish House (Viman Nagar): A traditional Irish tavern offering a cozy, woodsy setting, a variety of draft beers, and global pub food, perfect for a relaxed evening.
Kiki (The Mills): Located on Bund Garden Road, Kiki offers a stylish and contemporary setting for enjoying drinks and a lively atmosphere.
Mi A Mi (JW Marriott Hotel): A premier nightclub located in the basement of the JW Marriott on Senapati Bapat Road, designed like an underground garage with a large dance floor and a high-energy vibe.
The House Of Medici (The Westin): Housed inside The Westin in Koregaon Park Annexe (Mundhwa), this luxury club is famous for housing one of the longest bars in India and offering a phenomenal atmosphere with great music and cocktails.
Area 51: Located in Baner Hills, this iconic nightclub is known for its magnetic dance floor, electrifying ambiance, and revolving dance floor, making it a bucket list item for party lovers.
High Spirits Cafe: A beloved fixture in Koregaon Park known for its funky, open-air setting adorned with fairy lights. It hosts frequent live gigs, bands, DJ sets, and karaoke nights with an eclectic music scene.
Penthouze: An elevated rooftop nightclub on Onyx Tower (Koregaon Park Annexe), offering a panoramic view, lively ambiance, commercial nights, and Bollywood gigs under the stars.
Toyroom Club Pune: Nestled within the Sheraton Grand, this is a prominent venue known for its unique blend of luxury and playful ambiance, solidifying its reputation with exciting events and renowned DJs.
Millers – The Luxury Club: Located in Sangamvadi, this club is captivating and alluring, offering an artsy space with indoor/outdoor seating and transforming Pune’s nightlife scene with high-energy party music.
Publiq (Hinjawadi/Koregaon Park): A popular nightclub with multiple locations offering awesome music, outside seating, and an eclectic mix of pub fare and cocktails, known for its Bollywood nights on Fridays.
Elrow Pune: Found in Kalyani Nagar, this top club is super fun, famous for its lively themed parties, awesome music, and vibrant atmosphere.
Ballr: Situated in Kalyani Nagar, Ballr is one of the largest nightlife clubs in the country, providing a luxurious and vibrant experience, perfect for dancing the night away.
Scream – The Night Club (Le Meridien Pune): A dedicated nightclub on Raja Bahadur Mill Road known for its pulsating music, large dance floor, and high-octane clubbing experience.