Visiting Shertallai: Planning Your Trip

Shertallai, a stop between the sea and the backwaters

Shertallai—also spelled Cherthala—is a small town in Alappuzha district, in the Indian state of Kerala, in the country’s southwest. It lies between the Arabian Sea and the vast inland waters that shape Kerala’s landscape. People come here less to tick off a long list of monuments than to discover a lived-in, green region closely connected to canals, coconut groves and fishing. The town makes a useful stop between Kochi and Alappuzha, or a quiet base for exploring the surrounding area.

The pace is that of a regional centre rather than a beach resort: shops, markets, temples and everyday traffic make up most of the activity. As you leave the main roads, routes pass stretches of water, villages and tropical gardens. Shertallai’s charm lies in this transition between town and countryside, and in the chance to see a less stage-managed side of Kerala than in the more frequented backwater destinations.

The region is particularly suited to a flexible stay. Plan for one or two nights if you would like to take a boat trip, explore the coast or simply slow down before continuing to Alappuzha or Kochi. Shertallai is not a destination on the scale of places visited solely for major sights: it is most appealing when seen as a gateway to the landscapes and ways of life of Kerala’s central coast.

Temples, beaches and waterside landscapes

Kadavil Mahadeva Temple, in the Shertallai area, is an important religious landmark in the region. As with many temples in Kerala, the interest lies as much in the architecture, rituals and atmosphere as in any spectacular monument. Access rules may differ by location and time: dress respectfully and ask locally before entering areas reserved for worshippers. Local temples are also best enjoyed without rushing, with consideration for prayer times and neighbourhood life.

The Marari coast, north of Alappuzha and reachable from Shertallai on a day trip, draws visitors for its more peaceful atmosphere compared with some urban beaches. People mainly come for a walk, the evening light and a glimpse of a fishing coast, rather than extensive leisure facilities. Thottappally Beach, farther south, also offers a chance to see a coastal landscape where inland waters meet the sea. Swimming depends on local conditions: pay attention to notices and the state of the sea, and do not assume every stretch is suitable.

The canals and shores of Vembanad Lake are another major attraction. A boat ride offers views of the houses, plantations and boats woven into daily life. The scenery varies according to the route and season; choose an excursion whose departure point and duration genuinely fit your plans. A few hours may be enough for a first glimpse, while a longer route reveals more of the patchwork of waterways and villages.

Understanding the different sides of the region

Cherthala town centre is a practical choice for travellers who want to reach shops, simple restaurants and regional transport. It is the busiest area, with traffic that can be heavy around the main roads. It works well for an overnight stop or a stay focused on getting around, but is less peaceful and offers less access to waterside scenery than the outlying areas. To enjoy the town, walk early in the morning or later in the day, when the heat is less intense.

Villages and shores west or south of the centre offer a more rural atmosphere, with canals, small jetties and coconut groves. Accommodation is often spread out, so check transport options and the actual distance to places where you want to eat or board a boat. This option suits travellers seeking quiet who are happy to plan their journeys, rather than visitors who want to go out on foot every evening.

The coast around Marari has a different feel, focused on the beach and restful stays. It is less convenient for daily trips to central Shertallai, but may suit you if the sea is your priority. Alappuzha, farther south, has more tourist facilities and backwater excursion options. When comparing these areas, think less about distance on a map than about travel time, road conditions and how often you plan to go out.

Where to stay, depending on how you travel

In central Shertallai, small hotels and guesthouses are generally the most convenient for a stopover. You will be better placed to reach shops and arrange a departure for Kochi or Alappuzha, but the surroundings will be more urban and sometimes noisy. Before booking, check up-to-date information about amenities, cancellation terms and arrival arrangements, and compare the location on a map rather than relying only on the name of the locality.

For a more relaxing experience, look for accommodation near the backwaters or in a nearby village. Guesthouses and small properties may offer a closer connection with the landscape, but restaurants and public transport can be less accessible. Consider whether you will need meals on site, a vehicle or an arranged transfer to reach a jetty. A very isolated place can be pleasant for unwinding while making a spontaneous excursion more difficult.

Travellers who favour the beach can compare accommodation in the Marari area. Coastal options tend to be better suited to a restful stay than to daily exploration of Shertallai. Families may want to check how much space is available and whether meals are offered; travellers on the move may want to check access to the railway station or main road. Prices, services and availability vary by season: compare terms and recent reviews on booking platforms without assuming that a particular property is open or suited to your needs.

A cuisine of coconut, rice and fish

Local cuisine reflects the proximity of the sea and the abundance of coconuts. Expect fish curries, spicy preparations, vegetables cooked with coconut milk or oil, and rice in various forms. Karimeen, or pearl spot fish, is a well-known speciality of Kerala’s backwaters, often prepared with spices and sometimes cooked in a leaf. Menus vary according to the catch and each establishment’s customs, so ask what is made that day rather than assuming a particular dish will always be available.

Among the state’s signature dishes are appam, a fermented pancake with light, delicate edges, and puttu, a steamed rice preparation usually served with a savoury or sweet accompaniment. For a more substantial meal, sadya brings together several vegetarian dishes served with rice, particularly during festivals or special occasions. Everyday meals in restaurants in the centre are often simple and generous; coastal and tourist areas may offer a presentation more geared towards visitors.

When choosing a place to eat, favour spots busy at mealtimes and establishments that clearly list the day’s specialities. Small local restaurants are a good way to sample everyday cooking, while accommodation can be convenient for dinner in more isolated areas. If you have dietary preferences, specify how much chilli you want and whether you eat fish or dairy products; recipes and practices vary from one kitchen to another.

Getting to Shertallai and getting around

Cochin International Airport, near Kochi, is the main air gateway to the region. From the airport, Shertallai is reached by road; a private transfer or car with a driver makes arrival easier, especially if you have luggage or are travelling in a group. The journey depends on traffic and your exact destination. It is also possible to continue by public transport via Kochi or an intermediate station, but this requires more coordination.

Cherthala railway station is on Kerala’s coastal line and can be useful for regional rail journeys. Services and stops vary by train: check your route when planning, allowing time to get from the station to your accommodation. Buses connect the towns and localities nearby, while auto-rickshaws are mainly used for short trips. For less common journeys, agree on the destination and fare before setting off.

A rental car or driver can be useful for visiting several villages, beaches and jetties in a day. Local driving requires care, particularly on narrow, busy roads; if you do not know the area, a driver saves you from having to manage navigation and traffic conditions. For the backwaters, a boat is an experience and a way to explore, but it does not always replace road transport. Compare airport transfers, excursions and rental options according to your itinerary, and confirm the details with your chosen provider.

Things to do during a stop in Shertallai

A boat trip along the canals is the region’s most evocative activity. Options range from a short ride to a longer excursion through the backwater network. Before booking, ask about the boarding point, duration, type of boat and what is included; these details make a big difference to the experience. A small boat may offer a closer view of the banks, while a larger one may be better suited to groups. Choose a route that leaves time to observe rather than rushing through a succession of stops.

You can combine a day among the waterside scenery with a visit to the coast, particularly around Marari or Thottappally. These trips are made from Shertallai, but the beaches are in the surrounding area and should not be confused with a neighbourhood in the town centre. Travellers who want to see Alappuzha’s major sights can also set aside a separate day, allowing time for the drive and any boat journeys.

The simplest activities are often the most revealing: browse a market, watch the boats near the canals or walk through a village in the late afternoon. Guided visits can offer insight into fishing, local crops and the landscape, provided you choose an itinerary that respects residents. For a trip to Kochi, Fort Kochi and its historic neighbourhoods are a separate destination, more urban and rich enough to merit a full day or longer.

Plan a stay without rushing

For a first visit, set aside one day for the backwaters and another for the coast or the area around Alappuzha. If you have just one night, choose between a boat trip and a beach stop: adding too many journeys leaves less time to enjoy the scenery. On a longer Kerala itinerary, Shertallai fits well between Kochi and Alappuzha, but it can also make a quiet pause during a regional circuit. Allow extra time for connections and road journeys, which cannot be judged by the distance shown on a map alone.

The climate is tropical, and heat and humidity can make visits more pleasant in the morning or late in the day. The monsoon brings sometimes heavy rain, which transforms the landscape but can complicate outdoor activities and travel. Conditions vary from year to year: bring suitable clothing and check cancellation terms for excursions. The drier season is generally favoured for travel and waterside activities, though it does not guarantee the same weather every day.

Prioritise booking accommodation for your dates, arrival transfers if you land late, and boat excursions if your plans depend on them. Keep the rest flexible: trains, markets and local outings are easier to coordinate once you have chosen your base. Carefully compare accommodation locations, stated journey times and what excursions include. With a light schedule and realistic expectations, Shertallai reveals its main appeal: a peaceful window onto Kerala’s waters and everyday life.

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