For an Alleppey (Alappuzha) houseboat trip, fly into Cochin International Airport in Kochi, the closest airport. It lies roughly 78 to 85 km from Alappuzha town depending on the source, and the road transfer typically takes about two hours or a little more. Alappuzha has no airport of its own, so plan a taxi or bus after landing.
Updated October 2026 · HappyFares
Alappuzha is the best known gateway to the Kerala backwaters, and houseboat cruises are a major draw. Getting there is simple once you know which airport to use and how long the road leg takes.
Which airport is nearest to Alleppey?
Cochin International Airport (airport code COK) is the closest airport to Alappuzha. Wikipedia describes it as about 78 km north of the town. Some travel guides give about 85 km, and others quote anything from the low 70s to the mid 80s, so use roughly 70 to 85 km as a planning range and expect small differences depending on where on the backwaters your boat starts.
The airport is in Nedumbassery in Ernakulam district, about 25 km northeast of Kochi city centre. That matters because it is not in the city. If you pick a Kochi hotel for a night, remember that the airport and the city are separate legs of the journey.
A fun aviation fact: in 2015 Cochin became the world’s first fully solar powered airport, according to Wikipedia.
Which airlines fly to Kochi?
Kochi is one of the better connected airports in the south. Wikipedia lists these domestic passenger airlines: Air India, Air India Express, Akasa Air, Alliance Air, Fly91, IndiGo and SpiceJet. Many international airlines also serve it, which makes it a practical entry point if you are arriving from overseas.
Schedules and routes change by season, and not every airline flies from every city, so search your dates and compare before you book. Flexible dates often help, and a price alert can tell you when a fare falls on your route.
A sensible plan is to land, collect your bags and head straight for Alappuzha, instead of adding a night in Kochi. If your flight arrives late in the evening, though, a night near the airport can make the drive less tiring, and you can start the cruise fresh the next morning. Keep your boarding time with the houseboat operator in mind before you pick a flight.
How do you get from Kochi airport to Alappuzha?
The usual option is a taxi, which is the easiest way if you have luggage. Travel guides quote about 1.5 to 2.5 hours for the drive, with traffic and your exact destination making the difference. Listings for individual houseboats show drive times of roughly two and a half hours or a little less, so allow generously.
Buses also run between Kochi and Alappuzha, but they are slower once you add the leg from the airport to the bus stand. Trains are another option: Alappuzha railway station is on the Ernakulam to Kayamkulam coastal line and is about 4 km from the heart of the town, according to Wikipedia. You would still need to reach a station from the airport first, so for most flying visitors a taxi is simpler.
Houseboat operators often offer to help with the transfer. Ask yours what is included and agree the pick-up point in advance, since boarding points differ across the backwaters.
When is the best time for a houseboat trip?
Alappuzha’s backwaters are used for both transport and tourism, and houseboats are a major source of tourist revenue for the town, according to Wikipedia. Check current Kerala Tourism guidance for the exact peak window before you plan. Generally speaking, the monsoon months bring heavy rain and a different mood on the water, while drier months are often what visitors prefer for relaxed cruising.
If you are travelling in the rains, confirm that cruises are operating on your dates and remain flexible with timings. Weather can change plans at short notice.
What is the Nehru Trophy Boat Race, and does it affect your trip?
The Nehru Trophy Boat Race is the famous snake boat race held on Punnamada Lake near Alappuzha. Wikipedia says it is traditionally held on the second Saturday of August. The date is not always fixed: the 2024 race was postponed because of the Wayanad landslides and held on 28 September.
If you want to watch, confirm the official date for that year close to your travel, then book flights and a stay early, because the town is busy on race days. If you would rather avoid crowds, check the date and choose another week.
Common Questions
Is there an airport in Alleppey?
No. The closest airport is Cochin International Airport in Kochi, roughly 78 to 85 km away.
How long is the drive from Kochi airport to Alappuzha?
Typically around two hours, and sometimes closer to two and a half, depending on traffic and where on the backwaters you are going.
Can I reach Alappuzha by train?
Yes. Alappuzha has a railway station on the Ernakulam to Kayamkulam line, about 4 km from the town centre. Most flying visitors still take a taxi from the airport.
Is Cochin International Airport in the city of Kochi?
No. It is at Nedumbassery, about 25 km northeast of the city centre.
When is the Nehru Trophy Boat Race held?
Traditionally on the second Saturday of August, though the date can shift. Check the official announcement for the year you travel.
Who arranges special assistance at the airport?
Ask the airline you are flying with. Airlines handle wheelchair and other assistance requests.
Planning a backwaters break? Search flights to Kochi on HappyFares, set a price alert, or ask Meera, our AI assistant, to help compare dates. Domestic bookings have zero convenience fee, and we offer a price-match guarantee and travel insurance.
Airline routes, fees and rules change. Verify current specifics with the airline, DGCA, the airport or Kerala Tourism before you travel.
