Alappuzha (Alleppey) Sightseeing, Quick Facts, History, Packages, Tours & Excursions

Coined 'Venice of the East' Alleppey or Alapuzzha is a mosaic of mirror-still lagoons, picture book lakes, palm fringed canals and a long sandy beach - all brimming with glimpses of daily life in the Kerala country side.

Alappuzha has been a significant place in Indian history and finds mention in the Mahabharata as well. However, it owes its modern face to Raja Kesavadas, the architect whose modernistic vision made it a rich and commercially profitable area in the late 18th century, under the patronage of the Maharaja of Travancore. With the development of ports and a system of inland canals for transportation and navigation, trade flourished in the area, opening channels with the Dutch, Portuguese and Europeans.

Today, Alappuzha is a hub of Kerala tourism for its backwaters and house boats. The favourite water channel here is the Vembanad Lake. The Kayamkulam Lake and the interconnected canals are the other water bodies used for backwater cruises. 'Kettuvallams' or house boats are available on hire on a daily basis as well as for longer durations to take visitors along the old waterways. The leisurely cruises mirror glimpses of life on the water side with breath taking views of the rivers, lakes, paddy fields, and small hamlets. Moving with time, motor boats, paddle boats and 'shikhara' style boats have found their way into the river these days. Alappuzha is also a centre for the coir industry with multicoloured coir products like mats, swings and wall hangings being displayed and sold everywhere.

The snake boat races are an event held in the highest esteem here. The Nehru Trophy snake boat race takes place every year on the second weekend of August in the lakes of Punnamada and Chambakkulam. Another noteworthy race is the Payipad Boat Race, which begins from the 'Onam' festival day and continues for three days.

The unique distinction of Alleppey is that it is the only district in Kerala without a forest. Backwater cruises are the primary means of livlihood here, fishing and agriculture come a close second. This is why you will probably find a restaurant at every corner of the town. Food is very regional here in the Kuttanad style, with sad imitations of Chinese and Continental cuisine coming up of late. A meal at a toddy shop can be a unique and adventurous experience. The souvenir shops here mainly sell ayurvedic oils, coir and coconut mesh products.

Tourism Info:

DTPC,

Opp Canara Bank,

Boat Jetty Road

Alapuzzha