Family Adventure in the Backwaters of Alleppey

Finding Peace and Culinary Delights in Alleppey

Today was a day of exploring Alleppey's spiritual and culinary sides. It's amazing how much variety this 'Venice of the East' offers. From peaceful monuments to flavorful restaurants, Alleppey continues to surprise and delight us.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Avocado Garden Restaurant. Priya, Aarav, and I were all eager to start the day, and this restaurant came highly recommended. The ambiance was lovely, with a cozy and relaxed atmosphere that made us feel right at home. We enjoyed some delicious pancakes and South Indian coffee, which gave us the perfect energy boost for the day ahead. It was a great start, and Aarav was particularly fond of the pancakes, declaring them the best he’s had so far on this trip.


Experience diverse culinary delights at Avocado Garden Restaurant in Alappuzha - where American meets Indian and Chinese flavors.

After breakfast, we set off to visit the Global Peace Palace. This monument, a replica of the Taj Mahal, is dedicated to war heroes and victims of terror attacks. It was quite moving to see the names of those who sacrificed their lives for their country etched on the dome and minarets. The Global Flag mast, displaying miniature flags of all nations, symbolized the message of global unity, echoing the Indian truism 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' – the world is one family.

Visiting the Global Peace Palace was a poignant reminder of the importance of peace and harmony in our world.

The visit was especially impactful for me, given my background as an immigrant. Having lived in different countries and experienced various cultures, the idea of global peace resonates deeply. I shared some of my thoughts with Priya, and we both agreed that it’s crucial to instill these values in Aarav from a young age. The palace also houses a small library and museum highlighting the perils of war and terrorism. It's a sobering experience, but one that reinforces the importance of striving for peace. The visit was free, which allowed more people, especially students, to learn about national integration and patriotism.


Explore the Global Peace Palace in Alappuzha, Kerala, a unique monument dedicated to peace, surrounded by serene landscapes and stunning architecture.

Next on our itinerary was the Swetamber Jain Temple. Located on Gujarati Street, this temple is an important cultural and spiritual center for the Jain community. The temple's architecture, crafted without a dome or iron support and adorned with white marbles from Rajasthan, was truly remarkable. It was a serene and quiet place, offering a stark contrast to the bustling streets of Alleppey. We learned that the temple was built by members of Jain families who migrated from Gujarat centuries ago. This temple has played a significant role in the growth of Jainism in South India.


Discover the architectural beauty and spiritual tranquility of Swetamber Jain Temple in Alappuzha, Kerala, a serene retreat for all travelers.

Inside, we saw the idols of Mulnayak Sri Sri Vasupujya Swami Bhagwan and Shri Parshwa Nath Bhagwan. The intricate carvings and the peaceful ambiance made it a perfect place for reflection. Aarav was curious about the Jain faith, and I tried my best to explain the principles of non-violence and truth. It’s moments like these that make traveling with family so enriching, as we all learn and grow together. I was particularly touched by the temple's commitment to providing pure Jain food, adhering strictly to Jainism protocols. It reflects the community's dedication to preserving their traditions and values. The temple also offers dharamshala facilities, providing accommodation for pilgrims.

For lunch, we decided to try a local restaurant simply named 'Restaurant'. It was a no-frills place, but the food was authentic and delicious. Priya and I shared a traditional Kerala meal with rice, sambar, and various vegetable curries. Aarav, as usual, opted for something less spicy, settling for a simple but tasty chicken dish. The meal was satisfying and gave us a real taste of Kerala’s culinary heritage.


Experience authentic Keralite cuisine at Memories Restaurant - where every dish tells a story amid stunning coastal views.

In the evening, we had dinner at Hassans Family Restaurant. This place is known for its non-vegetarian Kerala-style food and tandoori dishes. The restaurant had a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, and the staff was eager to help us choose from the menu. I decided to try their famous Chicken Biryani, while Priya went for the Mutton Biryani. Aarav chose a simple chicken tikka, which he thoroughly enjoyed. The biryanis were flavorful and rich, with the perfect blend of spices. It was evident that the restaurant used fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The service was excellent, and the prices were reasonable. It’s easy to see why this place is so popular among locals and tourists alike. I was especially impressed by their commitment to sustainability. It’s heartening to see businesses that care about both their customers and the environment.


Discover authentic Middle Eastern and Indian flavors at Hassans Family Restaurant in Alappuzha - where every meal is a celebration of taste.

To cap off the evening, I ventured out to Punnamada Resort Bar for a quick drink. Priya and Aarav were tired, so they decided to head back to our current accommodation. The bar was a serene escape, located amidst the beautiful backwaters of Alleppey. I enjoyed a cool beer while taking in the tranquil surroundings. The gentle rustle of palm trees and the stunning view of the backwaters made it a perfect spot to unwind. It’s open from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily, making it convenient for both early birds and night owls. It was a relaxing end to a day filled with exploration and reflection.


Discover tranquility at Punnamada Resort Bar in Alappuzha, Kerala’s serene backwater paradise, offering refreshing drinks and stunning views.

As I reflect on the day, I am grateful for the opportunity to experience Alleppey’s diverse offerings. The Global Peace Palace and the Swetamber Jain Temple provided moments of introspection and cultural enrichment, while the local restaurants offered a taste of Kerala’s vibrant culinary scene. Traveling with Priya and Aarav makes these experiences even more special, as we share these memories together.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Brackish Lagoons and visit the Sunset viewpoint. I’m particularly excited about the lagoons, as I’ve heard they offer breathtaking views and a chance to see more of Alleppey’s natural beauty. We also plan to do some souvenir shopping at Pulickattil The Handicraft Shop. I’m sure Priya and Aarav will enjoy that, as they always love finding unique mementos to remember our travels by. Until then, goodnight from Alleppey!