Family Adventure in the Backwaters of Alleppey

Spiritual and Artistic Immersion in Alleppey

Today was a day of diving deep into the cultural and artistic heart of Alleppey. From the serene atmosphere of ancient temples to the captivating displays at a unique museum, and the delightful flavors of Kerala cuisine, it was a day filled with enriching experiences for the whole family.

The day started with a hearty breakfast at Cassia Restaurant. Priya and Aarav were eager to try some authentic South Indian dishes. I opted for the classic Appam with Veg Stew, while Priya chose a Bread Omelet, and Aarav, ever the fan of familiar flavors, went for a simple yet satisfying toast and jam. The restaurant had a warm and inviting ambiance, and the staff were incredibly friendly. It was a great start to our day of exploration. I must admit, the prices were a little on the higher side, but the service was spectacular.


Experience the finest blend of Indian and Continental cuisine at Cassia Restaurant in Alappuzha – a true culinary treasure.
Our first stop was the Mullakkal Rajarajeswari Temple. As we approached, the temple's traditional Kerala architecture immediately caught our eye. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Rajarajeswari, and the atmosphere was filled with a sense of peace and devotion. What struck me most was the open-roof sanctum, which allowed the deity to be in the open air. It felt like a direct connection to the heavens. Aarav was fascinated by the intricate carvings and the vibrant colors of the temple.


Discover the spiritual beauty and cultural richness of Mullakkal Rajarajeswari Temple, a must-visit Hindu pilgrimage site in Alappuzha, Kerala.

Visiting sacred places always brings a sense of calm and reflection, reminding us of the deeper connections we share with our heritage and spirituality.

We spent some time walking around the temple grounds, taking in the serene vibe. It was interesting to see devotees from all castes and religions welcomed here, truly reflecting the secular spirit of Kerala. The temple is located in the heart of the town, yet it felt like a peaceful escape from the bustling city. I made sure to respect the local customs, remembering a lesson learned from my early travels – always be mindful and respectful of the local traditions. Priya found solace in the rhythmic chants and the spiritual ambiance, while Aarav was curious about the various deities housed within the temple.
Next on our itinerary was the Revi Karunakaran Memorial Museum. This museum is a treasure trove of art and artifacts, showcasing the private collection of the late Revi Karunakaran, who modernized the coir industry in Kerala. The museum houses an impressive array of items, including Swarovski crystals, ivory carvings, and porcelain.


Discover the artistic heritage of Kerala at the Revi Karunakaran Memorial Museum, showcasing unique artifacts and vibrant culture.
As we stepped inside, we were immediately transported to a different world. The sheer variety and richness of the exhibits were astounding. Aarav was particularly mesmerized by the dazzling display of Swarovski crystals. Priya, with her keen eye for detail, appreciated the intricate Tanjore paintings and the antique furniture. I was fascinated by the ivory collection, one of the largest of its kind, and the artifacts from various civilizations and cultures. It was clear that Shri Revi Karunakaran had a passion for art and a deep appreciation for cultural heritage.
However, I must mention that photography was not allowed inside, which was a bit disappointing. Nevertheless, it allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the experience without the distraction of trying to capture the perfect shot. The entry fee of 100 Rupees per person seemed reasonable considering the richness of the collection.
For lunch, we headed to Rice Boat pure vegetarian Restaurant. Being a vegetarian restaurant, it was a welcome change, and Priya was particularly thrilled. The restaurant had a charming atmosphere, and the staff were very attentive. We ordered a variety of dishes, including paneer, soup, and masala dosa. The food was delicious, and the prices were quite reasonable. Aarav enjoyed a simple dosa, while Priya and I savored the flavors of the Kerala meal. The restaurant is conveniently located near the Mullakkal Rajeshwari Temple, making it an ideal spot for a meal after a temple visit.


Discover authentic South Indian vegetarian cuisine at Rice Boat in Alappuzha—where every meal is a celebration of fresh flavors.
In the late afternoon, with the sun beginning to dip, I decided to treat myself with a visit to THE HARBOUR Bar & Beer Parlour. I was ready for a refreshing drink. The place was quite crowded, but I managed to find a spot. I ordered a beer and some prawns, and enjoyed the cozy atmosphere. It's a popular spot, especially since it’s one of the few places serving alcohol. The food was decent, though the portion sizes were a bit small. Overall, it was a pleasant experience, and the prices were reasonable.


Discover the lively atmosphere and delicious offerings at THE HARBOUR Bar & Beer Parlour in the heart of Alappuzha, Kerala.
For dinner, we chose Sea shore restaurant. This charming eatery, nestled near the beach, is known for its delicious seafood and warm hospitality. We indulged in the Fish Thali, which was an absolute must-try. The flavors of Kerala cuisine were authentic, and the accompanying sides, including the tangy pickles, complemented the dish beautifully. What truly set this place apart was the exceptional service. The family running the restaurant made us feel like part of their own, explaining the menu and sharing stories about the local cuisine. The ambiance was cozy and rustic, with beautiful views of the sea. It was the perfect way to end our day.


Experience authentic Indian cuisine with stunning sea views at Sea Shore Restaurant in Alappuzha, Kerala.
As the day drew to a close, we reflected on our experiences. It was a day of spiritual awakening, artistic appreciation, and culinary indulgence. Alleppey had truly captured our hearts with its rich culture and warm hospitality. The weather in Alleppey in August is quite pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 27.7°C. However, there are usually 18 days with some rain in August, so it’s good that I remembered to pack our umbrellas!.
Tomorrow, we plan to explore the International Coir Museum and the Alappuzha Light House. I am particularly excited about the Coir Museum, given Alleppey's historical connection to the coir industry. It promises to be another day of discovery and adventure in this beautiful part of India. And perhaps, we'll find some time to do some shopping at the Blue Bell Gift Shop.
I am grateful for another day filled with family, culture, and new experiences. Until tomorrow...