India

Cherthala

Cherthala

Cherthala is a vibrant town located in the Alappuzha district of Kerala, India. Situated on the coastal plains of the Arabian Sea, it is bl…

Best for you if…

  • A 4–5 day trip
  • Backwater cruise travelers
  • Historical sites travelers
  • Visiting in November to February
Recommended stay
3-5 days days
Best time
November to February
Walkability
Moderate
Guide depth
Deep guide
More about this guide

Cherthala is a strong pick for backwater cruise & historical sites — plan about 3-5 days days. Peak season: November to February.

Deep guide guide · about 5 min to read · depth score 96/100 (coverage of intro, tips, and mapped places)

Moderate density — A mix of walkable clusters with some longer hops. (≈37 km span)

50 Places to explore
3-5 days Recommended days
November to February Best season
8 Nearby places

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When to go

High season: November to February

JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC

Best months for lower-cost travel: June · July · August · September

Weather

Summer

March to May (25-35°C)

Winter

December to February (20-30°C)

Monsoon

June to September (25-30°C)

Post-monsoon

October to November (25-35°C)

How to get there

How to Reach Cherthala in India

Located in the southern state of Kerala, Cherthala is a beautiful town that offers a serene and picturesque experience to its visitors. If you are planning a trip to Cherthala, here are the various ways to reach this enchanting destination:

By Air:

The nearest airport to Cherthala is Cochin International Airport, which is approximately 57 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Cherthala. The journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the traffic conditions.

By Train:

Cherthala has its own railway station, which is well-connected to major cities in India. Several trains, including express and local trains, pass through Cherthala. You can check the schedule and book your tickets accordingly. Once you reach the Cherthala railway station, you can easily find transportation options to your desired destination within the town.

By Road:

Cherthala is well-connected by roadways, making it easily accessible by bus or car. National Highway 66 passes through Cherthala, connecting it to major cities like Kochi, Trivandrum, and Kozhikode. You can either drive your own vehicle or opt for public or private buses that operate on this route.

Local Transportation:

Once you reach Cherthala, getting around the town is convenient. Auto-rickshaws, taxis, and local buses are readily available for commuting within Cherthala. You can also explore the town on foot, as many attractions are easily accessible and within walking distance.

Places to Visit in Cherthala:

Cherthala is known for its scenic beauty and historical significance. Some popular attractions in and around Cherthala include the beautiful backwaters, Thiruvizha Mahadeva Temple, Marari Beach, St. Mary's Forane Church, and the famous Arthunkal Church. Don't miss out on exploring the traditional fishing villages and trying the delicious local cuisine.

Accommodation:

Cherthala offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget. From luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses, you can find a variety of places to stay in Cherthala. It is advisable to make your reservations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Plan your trip to Cherthala and immerse yourself in the natural beauty and cultural heritage of this charming town in India.

Getting to know Cherthala

Cherthala is a vibrant town located in the Alappuzha district of Kerala, India. Situated on the coastal plains of the Arabian Sea, it is blessed with abundant natural beauty and a rich cultural heritage. Cherthala is known for its picturesque backwaters, serene lakes, and lush greenery that make it a popular tourist destination.

One of the main attractions of Cherthala is the famous Cherthala Backwaters. These backwaters are a network of interconnected canals, lakes, and rivers that offer breathtaking views and a peaceful ambiance. Tourists can enjoy boat rides and houseboat cruises through the backwaters, immersing themselves in the tranquility of nature. The backwaters also provide a unique opportunity to witness the traditional lifestyle of the local people who depend on fishing and farming for their livelihood.

Cherthala is also known for its historical significance. The town has several ancient temples, churches, and mosques that stand as testaments to its multicultural heritage. The St. Mary's Syro-Malabar Catholic Church, built in the 9th century, is one of the oldest churches in Kerala and attracts pilgrims from far and wide. The Muthyapally Mosque, known for its stunning architecture, is another prominent religious site that showcases the town's diverse religious fabric.

In addition to its natural and historical attractions, Cherthala is also famous for its vibrant culture and festivals. The annual Cherthala Perunnal, a religious festival celebrated at the St. Mary's Church, is a grand event that draws thousands of devotees and spectators. The festival features colorful processions, traditional music and dance performances, and a lively market where visitors can indulge in local delicacies and handicrafts.

Overall, Cherthala offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic experience of Kerala. Whether it's exploring the backwaters, admiring the historical landmarks, or immersing in the vibrant festivities, Cherthala has something to offer for everyone.

Pre-trip checklist

Compiled from local tips, stay length, and season notes.

Local tips

  • Carry mosquito repellent during monsoon season
  • Explore the local cuisine, especially seafood dishes
  • Visit the famous St. Mary's Forane Church
  • Take a houseboat ride in the backwaters
  • Attend the annual Arthunkal Perunnal festival in January

Places worth exploring

50 places mapped for this destination

0–1
1–3
3–8
8–20
20+

Walking loops

Evening strolls, half-days, and fuller day loops — clustered by proximity.

Suggested 3-day outline

Places ordered by proximity into day buckets. Add what you like to your trip.

Frequently asked questions

Answers compiled from stay length, season, and local tips for this guide.

How many days do you need in Cherthala?

Most travelers spend about 3-5 days days in Cherthala, India.

When is the best time to visit Cherthala?

High season is typically November to February.

Which months are more budget-friendly in Cherthala?

Travelers often find better value in June, July, August, September.

What kind of trip is Cherthala good for?

Cherthala suits Backwater cruise, Historical sites, Religious pilgrimage, Nature exploration.

Is Cherthala walkable?

A mix of walkable clusters with some longer hops.

Any local tips for Cherthala?

Carry mosquito repellent during monsoon season

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Multi-city ideas

Nearby combinations sharing travel styles. See all routes

  • Cherthala → Kutiatodu → Vaikam · ≈25 km
  • Cherthala → Kutiatodu → Arukutti · ≈15 km
  • Cherthala → Vayalar, India → Vaikam · ≈16 km

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