Family Adventure in the Backwaters of Alleppey

A Day of Coastal Calm and Cultural Immersion

Today was a day of contrasts, blending the serene beauty of Alleppey's coastline with the rich artistic heritage housed within its museums. It's amazing how much variety this 'Venice of the East' offers, and I'm so glad I got to experience a slice of it with Priya and Aarav.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at THAFF Delicacy Restaurant YMCA Alappuzha. I had read a lot about their Kerala thali, and it certainly lived up to the hype. Priya opted for appam and stew, while Aarav, ever the predictable one, chose a plate of fried rice. The food was delicious, and the service was quick and friendly. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploration. I made a mental note to try their meen pollichattu next time, as it seems to be a local favorite.

Omanappuzha Beach: A Morning of Coastal Bliss

Our first stop was Omanappuzha Beach. The drive there was pleasant, with glimpses of the backwaters and lush greenery that define Alleppey. When we arrived, the beach was relatively quiet, a welcome change from the bustling town. The August weather was kind to us, with a gentle breeze and a sky that threatened rain but held back, allowing us to enjoy the scenery without getting drenched.


Discover the serene beauty of Omanappuzha Beach in Kerala, where golden sands meet vibrant local culture amidst the soothing sound of waves.

Aarav was immediately drawn to the water, of course. He loves the sea! Priya and I watched as he splashed around, building sandcastles with the other children on the beach. I took a few photos, trying to capture the joy on his face and the beauty of the surroundings. The beach itself is quite clean, though not very long. The shoreline had ample space for a quick hangout. I can imagine it being a great spot to unwind with friends and family.

I dipped my toes in the water – a little cool, but refreshing. It was the perfect way to start the day. We spent a couple of hours there, just enjoying the peace and quiet. I read somewhere that swimming after dark isn't recommended due to safety concerns, something to keep in mind for future visits.

It’s not about the destination, but the memories created along the way.

Revi Karunakaran Memorial Museum: An Artistic Journey

After our beach visit, we headed to the Revi Karunakaran Memorial Museum. I was intrigued by what I had read about it – a private museum housing a vast collection of art and artifacts. It turned out to be one of the most interesting places I have ever been to. The museum is a treasure trove of artistic and cultural heritage. Revi Karunakaran was an avid collector, and the museum boasts one of the largest private collections in the world.


Explore the Revi Karunakaran Memorial Museum, a cultural treasure in Alappuzha revealing Kerala's rich heritage and artistry through captivating exhibits.

The museum is home to an impressive collection of porcelain and ivory artifacts. It was established by his wife, Betty Karunakaran, in memory of her late husband. The atmosphere inside the museum was very serene, allowing us to take in all the beauty and grandeur of the collections.

Aarav was particularly fascinated by the Swarovski crystals. The museum has an extraordinary collection of them, including intricate figurines and chandeliers. Priya, with her keen eye for detail, was captivated by the Tanjore paintings and antique furniture. I was impressed by the sheer variety of exhibits, from European artifacts to traditional Kerala pieces. The museum truly offers a glimpse into different eras and cultures, with each piece telling its own story.

While photography isn't allowed inside, I did manage to snap some pictures of the sculptures outside. The museum is closed on Mondays, so we timed our visit just right. It's located about 3 km from the city center, easily accessible by auto-rickshaw or cab.

A Culinary Interlude and Evening Relaxation

For lunch, we decided to try BayRoute Bistro. The reviews online were promising, and we were in the mood for something a little different. The restaurant had a pleasant ambiance, and the menu was quite extensive, offering a mix of cuisines. I opted for the Nasi Goreng, while Priya chose a chicken dish, and Aarav had pasta. The food was good, though perhaps a bit on the pricier side.


Experience exquisite dining at BayRoute Bistro in Alappuzha - where local flavors meet global cuisine in an inviting atmosphere.

As evening approached, we decided to unwind at Pegs and Pints, a bar located in the Ramada by Wyndham. I thought it would be nice to relax with a drink while Aarav enjoyed some time by the pool. The bar had a lively atmosphere, and the staff were friendly. I tried one of the local craft beers, while Priya had a cocktail. It was the perfect way to end a busy day.


Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delightful drinks at Pegs and Pints, the ultimate bar experience in Alappuzha, Kerala.

Kream Korner was on the cards for dinner. I had heard a lot about their chicken biryani, and I wanted to try it out. The restaurant has a cozy ambiance and a diverse menu. The chicken biryani lived up to expectations – flavorful and aromatic. Aarav enjoyed some fried chicken, while Priya savored a vegetarian dish.


Experience the vibrant flavors at Kream Korner in Alappuzha - your go-to spot for breakfast, fast food, and delightful Chinese cuisine.

Looking Ahead

As I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences we've had today. Alleppey has a way of captivating you with its beauty and charm.

Tomorrow marks the last day of our family adventure in Alleppey. We plan to visit the Elephant Training Camp and Aloha Beach. I'm looking forward to seeing the elephants and spending some time by the sea before we pack our bags and head back to Toronto. I also intend to get some shopping done at DE NAIRA BOUTIQUE before we leave [Aloha beach, Elephant Training Camp Alleppey, DE NAIRA BOUTIQUE].

I'm sure tomorrow will be another day filled with memories. Until then, good night from Alleppey!