Family Adventure in the Backwaters of Alleppey

Backwater Bliss & Pine Forest Peace

Today was all about embracing the serene beauty of Alleppey, a place that truly lives up to its nickname, the 'Venice of the East.' It was a day filled with gentle breezes, picturesque landscapes, and the simple joys of exploring with family. I always find that slowing down and immersing ourselves in the local rhythm is the best way to truly appreciate a destination.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Lake Side Pavilion. The ambiance was just perfect – a serene view of the lake as we enjoyed some traditional Kerala dishes. Priya opted for the Appam with stew, while Aarav, surprisingly, chose the Idli. I went with my usual, the Masala Dosa, which was crisp and flavorful. Full and content, we set off for our boat cruise starting point.


Discover the tranquil beauty of Alleppey with scenic boat cruises through Kerala's stunning backwaters, where nature and culture intertwine.
The boat cruise was the highlight of the morning. As we glided along the backwaters, I couldn't help but feel a sense of tranquility wash over me. The interconnected canals, the lush greenery, and the glimpses into the lives of the local people were simply mesmerizing. Aarav was particularly fascinated by the fishermen casting their nets and the colorful houseboats drifting by. Priya, ever the observer, enjoyed watching the daily routines of the villagers along the banks. It reminded us of the importance of slowing down and appreciating the simple things in life.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the gentlest of journeys.

Our cruise took us through some narrow canals where we got a closer look at the village life. We saw children heading home from school, people washing clothes by the water, and vendors selling their wares from small canoes. It was a vibrant tapestry of daily life, unfolding right before our eyes. I even managed to capture some great shots with my camera, memories I know we'll cherish for years to come. The weather was kind, with a gentle breeze keeping us comfortable as the sun played peek-a-boo through the coconut trees.

For lunch, we decided to try Alleppey Kitchen. This place had rave reviews, and I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype. It did! The food was authentic Kerala cuisine at its finest. We ordered a variety of dishes to share – the fish curry, prawn roast, and vegetable Thoran were all bursting with flavor. Aarav, who usually sticks to simpler fare, even tried a bit of everything and declared the butter chicken his favorite. Priya and I loved the spicy prawn roast, a true testament to the region's culinary prowess. The service was friendly and attentive, making our dining experience even more enjoyable.


Experience authentic Kerala cuisine at Alleppey Kitchen – where every dish tells a story.
After lunch, we headed to the Alleppey Pine Forest (Mini). It was a welcome change of scenery after the waterways. The mini pine forest was quite unique. The towering pine trees created a serene atmosphere, and the fresh scent of pine was invigorating. Aarav had a blast running around and exploring, while Priya and I enjoyed a leisurely stroll, hand in hand. I was initially skeptical about how interesting a pine forest could be in a place known for backwaters, but it was a pleasant surprise. It offered a different kind of beauty, a quiet escape from the bustling town.


Discover the serenity of Alleppey Pine Forest, a hidden gem in Kerala perfect for nature walks, photography, and tranquil escapes.
Before dinner, Priya suggested we do a little shopping. We stopped by Zudio | Alappuzha, and it turned out to be a fantastic experience. The store had a wide range of trendy clothes at incredibly affordable prices. Priya picked up a few Kurtis, while I found a couple of shirts that caught my eye. Aarav was thrilled to find some cool graphic tees. It was a fun, spontaneous shopping spree that added a little extra sparkle to our day. I must admit, I was impressed with the quality and the variety of options available. It’s definitely a place I’d recommend to anyone looking for budget-friendly fashion.


Explore Zudio in Alappuzha for trendy and affordable clothing that suits every style and occasion.
As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Eden Garden Restaurant for dinner. The restaurant lived up to its name – it was like dining in a tranquil oasis. The ambiance was charming, with lush greenery and soft lighting creating a relaxed atmosphere. We ordered a mix of Indian and Arabic dishes – the chicken biryani, kebabs, and seafood were all cooked to perfection. Aarav enjoyed his plate of butter chicken with naan, while Priya and I savored the spicy flavors of the biryani. The service was impeccable, making our dining experience truly memorable.


Experience authentic Kerala cuisine amidst lush greenery at Eden Garden Restaurant in Alappuzha – a true culinary oasis.
Reflecting on the day, I felt a deep sense of gratitude. Alleppey had charmed us with its serene backwaters, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture. It was a day of simple pleasures, shared with the people I love most. As we head back to our accommodation, I can’t help but feel excited about what tomorrow holds. We plan to visit the Global Peace Palace and the Swetamber Jain Temple. It will be another day of cultural exploration, and I am eager to learn more about the rich heritage of this region. And perhaps, later in the evening, I'll sneak away to Punnamada Resort Bar for a quiet drink, a little something to unwind after another day of adventures with my family.

I am also grateful that Priya didn't remind me about the umbrella I forgot to pack! I am sure we will need it at some point during this trip, but so far the weather has been great. All in all, a great day in Alleppey.

Tomorrow promises more cultural immersion as we explore the Global Peace Palace and the Swetamber Jain Temple. Until then, goodnight from Alleppey!