By Air: The nearest major airport is Cochin International Airport (COK) in Kochi, which is about 90-110 km from Alleppey depending on the route. From there, travellers can hire taxis or use private transfers.

By Train: Alappuzha has its own railway station (code: ALLP) well connected to cities like Kochi, Trivandrum, etc. For travellers coming from further away (e.g. Bangalore, Chennai), often one would reach either Kochi or one of the larger junctions, then take a connecting train to Alappuzha. 

By Road: Alleppey is connected by state highways and national highways. Buses (KSRTC and private) run from nearby cities like Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Kottayam. If driving, the roads are scenic, especially as you approach the backwater regions. Taxis and private cars are common and fairly straightforward.

A houseboat (called “kettuvallam”) cruise in Alleppey is one of the signature experiences. Here’s what to expect:

Routes & Duration: There are multiple popular routes. Some are short — a few hours or a half-day cruise; others are overnight or multi-night trips. Common routes include the Alleppey circle trip, Alleppey-Kumarakom trip, and special longer backwater journeys. 

Amenities: The level of comfort depends on the class of the houseboat — deluxe, premium, luxury. Furnishings may include bedrooms with attached bathrooms, dining space, living area, sometimes air conditioning (typically at night), local cuisine meals, staff like cook, captain, oarsmen. Safety features like life jackets are usually present. 

Cost: Costs vary with season, boat class, route, and inclusions (meals, pick-ups, drop-offs, etc.). In the high season (November-February), expect higher rates. Booking in advance helps. Off-season or weekdays often offer lower rates. Keep in mind that more luxurious boats with extra features cost more. 

Yes, generally houseboats are safe, even for families and first-time travellers, provided you take a few precautions. Houseboat operators usually provide safety gear like life jackets, and staff are trained for emergencies. 

If travelling with children or elderly people, choose boats with good amenities (solid railings, stable decks, reliable sanitation). Also check the boat’s reviews, ensure the route does not involve risky weather (avoid booking boat trips during heavy rain or storms), and verify that the boat is licensed. It helps to choose boats that adhere to local safety regulations.

While the backwaters and houseboats are primary draws, there are many other attractions and experiences in and around Alleppey:

Alappuzha Beach & Lighthouse: The beach has an old pier, sea view park, and a lighthouse that offers panoramic views. 

Temples and Churches: Such as Mullakkal Bhagavathy Temple, Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple, St. Mary’s Forane Church, Jain Temple etc. Architecture and local rituals provide cultural insight. 

Village & Coir Industry Visits: You can visit villages along the backwaters, see traditional coir rope-making, watch local fishing, and enjoy rural Kerala life. 

Beaches Nearby: Marari Beach is especially noted for being more tranquil than Alleppey Beach. Beach walks, sunrise/sunset views, relaxation are popular. 

Festivals & Events: Local festivals, the Alappuzha Beach Festival, Nehru Trophy Boat Race, Sand Art Festival etc. offer vibrant cultural experiences depending on timing. 

The cost can vary widely depending on style (budget vs luxury), time of year, and how much you use paid services.

Lodging: Budget hotels or guesthouses are reasonably priced; mid-range hotels cost more especially near the backwaters or beach; luxury houseboats or resorts cost significantly more. Expect steep jumps in price during peak season.

Food: Kerala cuisine is available widely; local eateries (“thattukadas”) tend to be inexpensive. Seafood, fresh local dishes will cost more in tourist zones or resorts.

Transport: Local transport (auto-rickshaw, tuk-tuk, buses) is affordable. Boat rides, shikaras, private transfers are additional. Travel between towns or villages takes more time and cost depending on distance.

As a rough guide, a modest stay with houseboat trip & food for 2-3 days can cost moderately (mid-range), whereas luxury options will be several times more. Always compare different operators and lodging options.

Booking ahead is highly advisable, especially for houseboat stays, popular resorts, or during peak tourist season (November-February, festival times, etc.). Some boats are small in number or high demand.

For casual stays in low-season, you might find availability last minute, but prices may not be favourable. For premium or luxury experiences, booking 2-4 weeks ahead (or more) is safer. If booking flights or transport during holidays, even earlier.

Culture & Customs: Alleppey, Kerala is culturally rich; many temples, churches. Respect religious places — dress modestly (cover shoulders/legs), remove footwear where required. Local festivals and ceremonies may have rules or times to attend.

Food: Try traditional Kerala dishes — fresh fish curries, coconut-based recipes, appam, puttu, etc. In local eateries, food is usually hygienic, but for sensitive stomachs, ensure food is freshly cooked and avoid very oily, undercooked or cold foods, especially during the rains.

Safety Tips:

1. Be cautious around water bodies, especially if you are not a strong swimmer.
2. Use life jackets when offered.
3. Mosquitoes can be a nuisance — use repellent.
4. Carry cash; while digital payments work in many places, remote villages or boat services may prefer cash.
5. Carry sunscreen, hat, water bottle, and light clothes.

Swimming in the beaches of Alleppey is generally not recommended. The currents in the Arabian Sea near the Alleppey town beach can be strong and unpredictable; there is also often an absence of developed safety infrastructure (such as lifeguards) at many beach spots. 

Backwater swimming may seem tempting, but it too has risks — water depth, hidden currents, water quality, boat traffic, etc. Many houseboat operators discourage swimming from houseboats both for safety and regulatory reasons. If you do want water experiences, better to choose designated safe beach locations, or water-sport operators who follow safety norms.
 

If you want to go beyond the usual houseboat & beach itinerary, here are some offbeat ideas:

Village homestays: Staying in small villages along the backwaters, experiencing daily life — farming, local fishing, coir work.

Shikara rides: Smaller, narrow-boat rides through canals that are quieter and give a closer look at local life, birdlife, flora.

Churches, temples less visited: Such as small historic churches, Jain temple in Alleppey (unique architecture). 

Coir weaving workshops: Learn traditional coir rope-making.

Sunset/sunrise views from less crowded spots: Slightly away from the main beach or boat jetty, on the banks of backwater canals.

Local markets & food walks: Sampling local snacks, fruits, street-food and interacting with locals.