Waterside

Right in the midst of serene backwaters and an intriguing crisscross of canals lies the charming town of Alleppey, also known as Alappuzha.

Here, tranquil houseboat rides are a big attraction for the visitors but the evening markets along the canals have their particular allure as well as this is the place where the town truly comes alive.

Alleppey town amidst the backwaters, with vibrant evening markets along the canals.

These markets cater to every human sense organ — they present a heady mix of vibrant colors, tantalizing aromas, and lively chatter that captures the essence of Kerala’s soul.

Vibrant market stalls along the canals with a mix of fresh produce, seafood, and local handicrafts, while the evening sky paints the backdrop.

These markets will stun you with their incredible variety of food. Dig into delicious delicacies —  piping hot parottas, spicy fish curries, and steaming plates of Puttu and Kadala. Vendors fry fresh banana fritters and make appams on the spot, their rich coconut aroma wafting through the air.

Local market vendor preparing traditional Kerala dishes, including appams and banana fritters.

Seafood lovers will have their big day —crabs, prawns, and freshly caught fish are grilled to perfection right by the water’s edge. Eat all you want. Many of the dishes are served on banana leaves, in authentic Kerala style.

The shopping experience won’t disappoint you either. There is a delightful array to choose from – colorful textiles, sturdy coir products, and wooden handicrafts, all handcrafted by local artisans.

Handcrafted textiles and coir products for sale at the bustling Alleppey market.

The markets offer a perspective into Kerala’s spice trade heritage, with most stalls trading in fragrant spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves. Visitors can also source Ayurvedic oils, homemade soaps, and other wellness products that go back in time to Kerala’s ancient traditions.

The canals themselves play an important role to play in the overall charm of the markets. Small wooden boats shine with fairy lights, and glide silently through the water, turning into boat-based stalls or ferrying visitors from one side of the market to the other.

Boat-based tea shop lit with fairy lights, offering chai in Alleppey’s evening market.

These boats often double as floating tea shops, where visitors get to sip a hot cup of chai while taking in the view of the lively marketplace.

The markets serve as a meeting ground, where the community comes together. Families stroll hand-in-hand, children run after sweet treats, and elderly locals sit on benches, idling away their time watching the activity around them. Musicians and street performers occasionally make an appearance, enlivening the festive atmosphere.

Alleppey’s evening markets along the canals remain rooted in local traditions and offer a one-of-a-kind opportunity to tourists to experience the rhythm of daily life in Alleppey. Visitors get to immerse themselves into the soul of Kerala. The memories linger long after the trip is over.

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