Planning a trip to Alleppey without burning a hole in your wallet? You’re not alone—Indians love saving big, especially during Great Indian Festival or Flipkart’s Big Billion Days. At SavePlus, we ensure you explore India affordably with smart travel hacks, cashback tips, and exclusive promo codes. Here are 11 incredible ways to enjoy Alleppey while keeping your budget firmly in check.

Glide Through the Backwaters on a Shared Shikara Ride

Backwater cruising is Alleppey’s highlight, but private houseboats can be costly. Instead, opt for a shared Shikara ride, which lets you enjoy the same scenic canals and lush greenery for a fraction of the price. These small wooden boats can be boarded from local jetties and offer a more intimate, peaceful view of village life. Rides typically last one hour and cover iconic narrow routes. The experience is soothing, photogenic, and a top pick among solo and budget travellers. Prices are transparent and fixed, especially during early hours.

• Shared Shikara rides cost as little as ₹300 per person and are easily booked at the jetty itself without agents.
  
  
• Online platforms like Paytm and PhonePe provide cashback offers when booking through select travel apps or QR-enabled boat operators.
  
  
• Locals recommend early morning slots to avoid the tourist rush and enjoy better views of nature and birdlife.

Pro Tip: Use PhonePe UPI and check for seasonal QR cashback offers under the “Travel” section to save up to ₹50 instantly.

Visit the Alleppey Beach and Lighthouse

Alleppey Beach is ideal for enjoying sunsets, local snacks, and beach games without spending much. The beach is open to all and offers free entry throughout the year. Adjacent to it, the Alleppey Lighthouse provides panoramic views of the sea and backwaters for just a small fee. You can climb to the top and enjoy a 360-degree view, especially beautiful during golden hour. The beach area has several stalls selling snacks like vada, bhajji, and chilled drinks. Evening cultural programs are also hosted occasionally near the beach. It’s a perfect low-cost way to enjoy Kerala’s coastal charm.

• Entry to the lighthouse costs just ₹20 for Indians and ₹10 for children, and it’s open from 10 AM to 5 PM.
  
  
• You can enjoy tasty beachside snacks like parippu vada or masala soda for under ₹50 from local vendors.
  
  
• Digital payments are accepted at many stalls, and Amazon Pay users often get 10% back on QR payments during weekends.

Pro Tip: Visit the lighthouse between 3 PM and 4 PM for the best view and click Instagram-worthy photos in natural lighting.

Explore Kuttanad Village on a Budget Bicycle Tour

Cycling through Kuttanad’s rice paddies and canal-side roads is a serene experience. You can rent a bicycle from nearby shops for as little as ₹100 per day. Most routes are flat, shaded by coconut trees, and safe for solo travellers or couples. The village life here is calm, and you’ll encounter locals engaged in farming or fishing. Stop by tea stalls or temple courtyards for rest without any extra spending. You can explore up to 10 km in a single morning without a guide. The peaceful ride gives a true feel of Kerala’s rural beauty.

• Local bike shops near Alleppey town charge ₹80 to ₹100 for 12 hours, including basic repair tools and maps.
  
  
• Cycling routes through Kainakary or Nedumudy offer authentic views of daily life, ideal for photography and nature lovers.
  
  
• Flipkart often lists foldable travel bikes at discounted rates—ideal if you're planning extended backpacking trips.

Pro Tip: Rent bicycles from shops just outside the main market—you’ll get better rates and well-maintained cycles.

Stay in Homestays for a Local, Low-Cost Experience

Homestays in Alleppey are more than just budget-friendly—they offer warm hospitality and home-cooked meals. Prices range from ₹800 to ₹1,200 per night, and many are located near backwaters or town centers. Hosts often help guests plan day tours, temple visits, and cultural programs. You’ll enjoy Kerala meals, clean rooms, and personalized tips—something hotels don’t provide. Some homestays also include breakfast at no extra cost. Booking during off-season (June to August) gives you deeper discounts. It’s perfect for families, students, or couples on a tight budget.

• Use Cleartrip or MakeMyTrip promo codes via SavePlus for extra 15% off on homestay bookings.
  
  
• Booking directly with the host through WhatsApp or local Facebook pages often fetches better prices.
  
  
• UPI payments accepted by many owners trigger cashback offers from Paytm or MobiKwik on first-time transactions.

Pro Tip: Always inquire about included meals and nearby bus or ferry connectivity before booking.

Try Alleppey's Street Food Delights

You don’t need a fancy restaurant to enjoy Kerala cuisine—Allepey’s street food is cheap, filling, and delicious. Popular dishes include puttu kadala, appam with stew, and banana fritters. You’ll find vendors near canals, temples, and markets serving hot, fresh food for under ₹100. Morning and evening are the best times to explore food carts for local favourites. Many accept UPI, and combo plates can fill your stomach without burning your wallet. Hygiene standards are reasonable at major stalls frequented by locals. Carry a water bottle to avoid paying for packaged ones.

• Mullakkal Street is famous for vegetarian snacks like parippu vada, idiyappam, and tea for under ₹30 per item.
  
  
• Swiggy and Zomato offer “pick-up” discounts in Alleppey—ideal if you want to grab food and continue exploring.
  
  
• Use HDFC Bank cards for up to 10% discount at participating eateries accepting cards via PoS machines.

Pro Tip: Stick to stalls with long local queues—they are usually the freshest and safest options to eat.

Watch a Kathakali Performance at a Cultural Centre

Kathakali, Kerala’s classical dance drama, is a stunning combination of expression, costume, and storytelling. You can enjoy a 1-hour performance at cultural centers in Alleppey for just ₹100–₹200 per person. The shows often include detailed explanations in English or Malayalam, making them easy to follow even for first-timers. Arrive early to watch the elaborate makeup process, a visual treat in itself. Many venues also include performances of Kalaripayattu, Kerala’s martial art, as part of combo packages. These experiences give you cultural depth without luxury pricing.

• BookMyShow and insider.in list budget-friendly shows, especially on weekdays with 20–30% discounts.
  
  
• Choose combo tickets (Kathakali + Kalaripayattu) at ₹250–₹300 for double the value at one venue.
  
  
• Use Paytm wallet at the venue or online platforms for cashback up to ₹50 on bookings.

Pro Tip: Attend shows at Coir Village Lake Resort or Navaratna Theatre, which are budget-friendly and centrally located.

Buy Handicrafts and Spices from Local Markets

Alleppey’s coir and spice markets are a paradise for budget-conscious shoppers looking for authentic souvenirs. You’ll find coir mats, spice pouches, and handicrafts directly from artisans at rates far cheaper than showrooms. Visit areas like Mullakkal Street and Boat Jetty Market where bargaining is common. These markets also sell sandalwood oil, pepper, and Ayurvedic products sourced from nearby farms. Buying early in the day fetches better prices as sellers offer "first sale" discounts. Stick to cash or UPI transactions for quicker deals and occasional small discounts.

• Spice kits start at ₹100, and coir mats at ₹150—ideal for gifting or home decor.
  
  
• Look for combo packs of Ayurvedic soaps or essential oils for ₹250–₹300 in small wellness shops.
  
  
• Use MobiKwik or Freecharge wallets to pay QR vendors and avail flat ₹25 cashback per ₹200 spent.

Pro Tip: Shop during local festivals like Onam or Vishu for seasonal discounts and exclusive gift hampers.

Visit Pathiramanal Island by Budget Ferry

Located in the vast Vembanad Lake, Pathiramanal Island is reachable via government ferry services starting from just ₹30 per ride. The 10-acre island is quiet, clean, and ideal for nature walks or peaceful picnics. You won’t find shops or vendors here, so pack essentials before the trip. The ferry ride itself is scenic and showcases village life on the water. Avoid speedboats offered by private agents—they cost upwards of ₹2,000. Plan the trip during the morning to avoid the afternoon heat and crowd.

• Ferries depart from Muhamma Jetty and take about 30 minutes to reach the island.
  
  
• Round trip on the government ferry costs ₹60–₹70 and operates every hour until 5 PM.
  
  
• Check IRCTC’s tourism section for bundled lake cruise + lunch packages under ₹500.

Pro Tip: Bring snacks, water, and a small mat to relax—there’s no infrastructure on the island but the experience is priceless.

Experience Local Temples and Spiritual Sites

Alleppey is home to many serene temples like the Mullakkal Bhagavathy Temple and Ambalapuzha Sri Krishna Temple. Entry is free, and you can experience spiritual rituals, architecture, and serene atmospheres. Early mornings are ideal for prayers, while afternoons offer a more peaceful vibe for exploration. Some temples offer free or low-cost prasadam meals. Make sure to follow dress codes, especially at more traditional temples. These visits not only ground you spiritually but also let you interact with the local community.

• Entry is free for all visitors; small donations of ₹10–₹20 are optional at prayer counters.
  
  
• During festivals like Navaratri or Vishu, temples offer cultural events and free meal services.
  
  
• Temple shops often accept Freecharge QR codes, and some offer 5% discounts for digital payments.

Pro Tip: Visit Ambalapuzha Temple at noon to receive the famous sweet Palpayasam served as prasad.

Book Budget Train Journeys to Explore Nearby Towns

If you want to stretch your Alleppey trip further, hop on a local train to nearby destinations like Kottayam or Ernakulam. Tickets cost between ₹10 and ₹25 for General Class, and trains are usually punctual and clean. These towns offer additional sights like churches, markets, and lakes, all accessible in a day. You won’t need overnight stays if you plan morning departures and return by evening. Use IRCTC or NTES apps to check train timings and availability. It’s a smart way to explore more of Kerala on the same trip.

• Tickets for short-distance trains (under 50 km) range from ₹10 to ₹25 in unreserved coaches.
  
  
• Use IRCTC Wallet or UPI to book on the go and avoid agent fees at railway counters.
  
  
• Combine train rides with local KSRTC bus journeys for under ₹100 full-day exploration.

Pro Tip: Opt for early morning or late evening trains to avoid mid-day heat and get window seats.

Take a Free Village Walk and Chat With Locals

Some of the best experiences in Alleppey are absolutely free—like taking a walk through peaceful village lanes. Interacting with locals offers stories, wisdom, and genuine hospitality. Most villagers are welcoming and will offer directions or even snacks if approached respectfully. You’ll learn about coir weaving, fishing, or toddy tapping just by observing. Early mornings are best to watch the day unfold with rooster calls, temple bells, and breakfast preparations. A slow village walk grounds your trip with simplicity and warmth.

• Villages near Kainakary and Champakulam are perfect for serene, pedestrian-friendly exploration.
  
  
• Locals often invite visitors for chai or conversation; no payment is expected but always say thank you.
  
  
• Free walking maps are sometimes available at local guesthouses or travel kiosks in town.

Pro Tip: Learn basic Malayalam greetings—saying "Namaskaram" or "Nanni" (thank you) goes a long way in winning hearts.

Conclusion

Alleppey proves that magical experiences don't need a hefty budget. With shared rides, homestays, free village walks, and local eats, your travel dreams stay within reach. At SavePlus, we help you travel smart with offers, promo codes, and cashback tips tailored for Indian explorers. Save more, explore more—Allepey awaits your affordable adventure!

FAQ

What is the cheapest way to explore Alleppey backwaters?
Opt for shared Shikara rides or government ferries, starting from just ₹30, instead of expensive houseboats.

Are there budget-friendly places to stay in Alleppey?
Yes, homestays start at ₹800 and often include meals. Use Cleartrip or SavePlus coupons for extra discounts.

Is local food in Alleppey affordable and safe?
Absolutely! Street food like puttu, vada, and appam is hygienic and available under ₹100 at trusted stalls.

How can I get discounts while travelling in Alleppey?
Use UPI apps like Paytm, PhonePe, and Amazon Pay for cashback offers on local bookings, food, and transport.

Are there free attractions in Alleppey?
Yes! Beaches, temples, village walks, and public performances are all free or cost very little to enjoy.