Family Adventure in the Backwaters of Alleppey

A Day of Discovery in Alleppey

Today was a day of immersing ourselves in the local culture and history of Alleppey. From exploring the intricate world of coir to enjoying the coastal views from the lighthouse and savoring the local cuisine, it was a day packed with memorable experiences. Priya, Aarav, and I were all excited to see what Alleppey had in store for us, and it certainly didn't disappoint.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Oru Dosa Company ODC. The aroma of freshly made dosas filled the air as we stepped inside. I opted for the classic masala dosa, while Priya decided to try their unique chilli chicken dosa. Aarav, ever the predictable one, went for a plain ghee roast. The dosas were superb, crispy and flavorful, and the chutneys were the perfect accompaniment. It's safe to say that ODC lived up to its reputation as a dosa haven. The staff were friendly, and the ambiance was quite welcoming, making it a great start to our day. I was particularly impressed by the transparent kitchen, which allowed us to see the chefs at work.

After breakfast, we headed to the International Coir Museum. Having grown up in Mauritius, I'm familiar with the resourcefulness of island communities, but I was still amazed by the sheer variety of products that can be made from coir. The museum is a tribute to Kerala's coir industry, showcasing its history and the craftsmanship involved in transforming coconut fibers into various products. Aarav was fascinated by the displays of machinery used in the coir-making process. We learned about the traditional methods of fiber extraction and the evolution of the industry over the years.


Explore the International Coir Museum in Alappuzha, Kerala, and discover the art and craft of coir, a unique aspect of Kerala's rich heritage.

The Coir Museum is a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the people of Kerala, transforming humble coconut fibers into objects of beauty and utility.

The museum not only displayed the finished products but also detailed the entire process, from the initial stages of fiber extraction to the final creation of intricate designs. It was fascinating to see how something as simple as coconut fiber could be transformed into such a wide array of items. The museum also had a short film showcasing the history and development of the coir industry, which was quite informative. And, of course, we couldn't leave without visiting the souvenir shop, where Priya picked up a couple of coir handicrafts to take back home.

Next on our itinerary was the Alappuzha Light House. Built in 1862, this iconic structure has been guiding ships along the coast for over 150 years. As we approached the lighthouse, its red and white stripes stood out against the clear blue sky. We climbed the spiral staircase to the top, and the panoramic views of the Arabian Sea and the surrounding coastline were simply breathtaking. Aarav was particularly excited about spotting different types of boats and ships in the distance. The lighthouse offered a glimpse into the maritime history of Alappuzha, once a bustling port town.


Discover the historic Alappuzha Light House, a stunning coastal landmark offering panoramic views and insights into Kerala's rich maritime heritage.

The Alappuzha Lighthouse has a rich history, intertwined with the development of Alappuzha as a port town. Construction began during the reign of Marthanda Varma and was completed under Rama Varma. Originally, the lighthouse used a coconut oil lamp as its light source, which was later replaced with electric illumination. The lighthouse also houses a small museum that showcases various maritime artifacts and equipment, providing further insights into the region's seafaring past.

After soaking in the coastal views and maritime history, it was time for lunch. We decided to try BayRoute Bistro, a restaurant known for its multi-cuisine offerings. The ambiance was quite pleasant, and the menu had a wide variety of options to choose from. I opted for the Lebanese rice and chicken, while Priya chose the hot and sour chicken soup. Aarav, predictably, went for the fried rice. The food was delicious, and the service was excellent. BayRoute Bistro is definitely a place I'd recommend to anyone looking for a good meal in Alleppey.


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

With our bellies full, we decided to do some shopping. Our destination was Blue Bell Gift Shop, a local store known for its unique gifts and souvenirs. Priya was on the lookout for some traditional Kerala handicrafts, while I was hoping to find a nice photography book. Aarav, of course, was more interested in the toys. Blue Bell Gift Shop had a wide selection of items, from cosmetics and perfumes to toys and home decor. We ended up buying a few small gifts for friends and family back home, as well as a couple of toys for Aarav.


Explore the enchanting Blue Bell Gift Shop in Alappuzha, Kerala, your destination for unique gifts, festive decor, and local treasures.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Kream Korner, Alappuzha for dinner. This restaurant came highly recommended for its local cuisine and cozy atmosphere. I decided to try their famous chicken biryani, while Priya opted for the chilli chicken. Aarav, as always, went for the safe option of fried rice. The chicken biryani was flavorful and aromatic, and the portion was quite generous. Priya enjoyed her chilli chicken, and Aarav happily devoured his fried rice. Kream Korner was the perfect way to end our day of exploration in Alleppey.


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

Tonight, as I reflect on our experiences, I am struck by the incredible diversity and richness of Alleppey. From the intricate craftsmanship of coir products to the historical significance of the lighthouse and the culinary delights of local restaurants, there is something for everyone here. It's a place where tradition and modernity blend seamlessly, creating a unique and captivating atmosphere. Tomorrow, we are planning to visit Alappuzha Beach and Vijay Park, and perhaps do some more shopping at Fabindia. I'm excited to see what new adventures await us in this beautiful corner of Kerala.

Exploring Alleppey is like stepping into a living tapestry where history, culture, and natural beauty are interwoven to create an unforgettable experience.

It's moments like these, sharing new experiences with Priya and Aarav, that remind me why I love to travel. Seeing the world through their eyes, experiencing new cultures and cuisines together, and creating lasting memories – it's what makes all the planning and preparation worthwhile. And as I drift off to sleep tonight, I'm already looking forward to another day of adventure in Alleppey.