Alleppey in December? These Winter Experiences Are Unreal

When you think of winter holidays all that comes to mind is snow-capped mountains or cosy fireplaces. But let me introduce you to a tropical twist on winter bliss: Alleppey in December and January. This winter jewel that Kerala has, which is also known as the “Venice of the East,” its own distinct and special winter charm that is both adventurous and cultural. From its placid backwaters to its pearly beaches, Alleppey is an ideal winter holiday destination. Here’s a detailed guide to the top winter experiences in Alleppey in December and January, complete with pro tips, hacks and handy travel tips that might help you.

Journey the Serene Backwaters On a Houseboat

Probably the best part of most travellers’ journey to Alleppey is a houseboat cruise – that’s their first stop. The months of December and January are ideal for experiencing the languid beauty of the backwaters because the cool weather makes it all the more pleasurable. Kettuvallams are traditional houseboats that have cosy bedrooms and open lounge areas as well as serving fresh home cooked Kerala cuisine.

The backwaters are calmer, and the weather is clear, creating gorgeous images of coconut trees and quaint houses in the water. Imagine floating through patches of emerald paddy fields and serene canals, sipping on tender coconut water.

If you want to have a nice time, try to book a Christmas Eve boat in Alleppey. Most houseboats arrange for the hosting of special events featuring musical performances, sumptuous meals of traditional Kerala food, and elaborate displays of fireworks in the background.

Celebrate New Year Eve with a Bang

But when it comes to New Year Eve in Alleppey, this town knows how to throw a party. Whether it is relaxing hours of calm jubilation while sipping on your drink and chatting, or letting loose on the dance floor until the wee hours of the morning, Alleppey has something to offer to all those who come. As the clock closes in to twelve, beach parties, cultural programs and backwater celebrations light up the city.

Where to go:

• Marari Beach: Known for its vibrant yet intimate parties, complete with bonfires and live music.
• Backwater Resorts: Many luxury resorts in Alleppey host exclusive gala dinners paired with cultural performances.

Visit Alleppey’s Top Beaches

The list for things to do in Alleppey in December is incomplete without mentioning the top beaches to visit. The warm sun in winters does make it easier to go around and check out it’s beautiful beaches. Although Alleppey Beach is among the top favourite of tourists, try to find out some uncrowded and unknown beaches of Alleppey.

Beaches that you must visit:

• Marari Beach: This beach is perfect for people who want some calmness combined with some light adventure. See if you can do activities such as cycling through fishing villages or trying out some Ayurvedic spa treatments in the area.
• Punnapra beach: Another one of Alleppey’s best-kept secrets beat with an atmosphere that has been left virtually untouched.

Kayaking in the Uncharted Canals

Alleppey’s winter mornings are ideal for kayaking. Kayaking is quite different from a houseboat where you are able to paddle through the narrow canals and see local life up close. Explore new places in Alleppey and expect to see areas filled with lotus ponds, little temples, and kids going to school in traditional canoes.

Get up early! The mornings are refreshing, and you will probably be greeted with backwaters filled with hue, which in essence is harder to be captured on a camera than it is in real life.

Hidden Places Worth Seeing in Alleppey

There are a plenty of unexplored places in Alleppey that are waiting to be discovered. These places to visit in Alleppey provide a very intimate experience of the culture and the nature of the region.

Top Hidden Gems in Alleppey:

• Pathiramanal Island: This small island in Vembanad Lake is a migratory bird haven in winter and is a dream come true for all bird lovers.
• Karumadi Village: Come over to this village if you wish to see an ancient black granite Buddha statue which can be traced back to the tenth century.
• Champakulam: This place can be visited for its church and is said to be peaceful making it favourable for culturally inclined people.

Fun Fact: Pathiramanal means “Sands of the Night.” The legend has it this island is formed when a Brahmin took a dip in the lake, splitting the water to reveal land.

Relish in the Winter Special Kerala Foods

Winter is the best time to savour wholesome dense Kerala cuisine. The month of December in Alleppey brings numerous delicacies like roasted cassava with spicy fish curry, hot banana puttu with steaming curry, and curries with lesser alcohol content.

Don’t miss:

• Seafood Haven: From fresh prawns to tangy fish curries, Alleppey’s coastal location ensures you get the best catch.
• Toddy Shops: One does not need to tell anyone where to go as the description explains it all, have dried fermented coconut sap with great dishes.

Where to go:

• Thaff Restaurant: They are well known for affordable prices for authentic Kerala dishes.
• Halais Restaurant: They are well known for Biryani and Malabar dishes.

Partake in Local Culture and Fairs

December and January witness the coming of some lesser-known local fests that bring Alleppey’s rich culture to life. From traditional Kathakali performances to temple processions, you’ll find the region brimming with life and colour.

Important Cultural Events to Check Out:

• Kathakali Shows: There are numerous resorts and cultural institutions that host these shows.
• Temple Celebrations: Do step inside Mullakkal Rajarajeswari Temple in winter months when it is beautifully adorned with vibrant decorations and rituals.

Other Things to do in Winter in Alleppey

If you have visited the key attractions therefore the following are some of the things to do in Alleppey in the months of December and January:

• Village Tours: Get someone to take you to sleep in the wilderness of local villages within Alleppey. Coir-making, and toddy tapping, to mention a few.
• Cycling Expeditions: Cycle through beautiful green paddy plantations and along the banks of back waters.

Practical Travel Tips for Winter in Alleppey

• Don’t Wait Till the Last Minute: This is the busiest season for travel to Alleppey in December and hence all activities should be pre-planned well in time to avoid disappointment.
• Explore like the Locals: Instead of sticking to the beaten path, take ferries, walking in villages and chat with the locals instead. You will be surprised to see many unexplored places in Alleppey.

The winter appeal of Alleppey is remarkable. Whether it is the backwaters which are its trademark or there are some other new unexplored areas of interest in Alleppey, the place is a great winter holiday destination. So, do you think you will get the finest Alleppey has to offer in December and January? Get your luggage ready, because this tropical perspective will make you take a flight to the skies.