Alleppey (Alappuzha)

The Venice of the East is how this small town of Alleppy or Alappuzha is known as. With its beautiful backwaters and lagoons, endless canals, swaying coconut palm trees and cashew plantations, it is but no wonder that this district of immense natural beauty has won every tourist’s heart.

Besides its breathtaking natural beauty, this headquarters of backwater tourism is also known for its spectacular snake boat races (on the Punnamada Lake) that are held on the second Saturday of August every year. A small race for the benefit of the tourists is held in mid January.

One of the most spectacular events in God’s own Country, the annual snake boat race is said to induce a spirit of comradeship as well as a sense of unity and fraternity amongst those participating in the race and those watching it. The race is indeed a sight to behold with long serpentine boats -135-104 feet long being rowed by around 100 men to the rhythm of drums and to the cheers of the crowd. The prize of the race being the coveted Nehru Cup .

A replica of a snake boat in silver, placed on wooden abacus, the cup is said to be instituted by the then Prime Minister of India Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru when he toured the town in the 1950s and was given a thunderous welcome .

he district of Alappuzha is also home to Kuttanad, which is known as the rice bowl of Kerala. The highlight of Kuttanad is that farming here is done below sea level. Kuttanad is among the must visit places in Alappuzha district.
August – September is the best time to visit Alapppuzha. The temperature here varies between 22 and 35°C in summer and 20 to 32°C during winters . 

Places for visit:

Alappuzha Beach  : A popular picnic spot, the Alappuzha beach is located near to the Alappuzha town. The pier, which extends into the sea here, is over 137 years old. One of the great fascinations for the visitors here is the nearby lighthouse and entertainment facility at the Vijaya Beach Park. The park offers boating facilities and a children’s park with toy train and bicycles. 

Pathiramanal : For bird lovers, this small island on the backwaters of Alappuzha is a must visit. About a 1½-hour drive by motorboat from Alappuzha, Pathiramanal is a haven for hundreds of rare birds migrating from different parts of the world. Pathiramanal is accessible only by boat as it is surrounded by the Vembanad Lake, stretching from Alappuzha to Kochi and the Kayamkulam Lake  .

Kuttanad : One of the prominent features of Alappuzha is the region called Kuttanad, the rice bowl of Kerala. Sandwiched between the sea and the hills, Kuttanad stretches for about 75 km It is believed to be the only place in the world where farming is done below sea level .

Sea view Park : For those who love enjoying themselves by water, the Sea View Park is a place to visit while in Alappuzha. The park has a swimming pool and offers boating facilities .

Krishnapuram Palace  : Forty-seven kilometres from Alappuzha lies Krishnapuram Palace, a rare specimen of the Kerala style of architecture. The palace had been the residence of the rulers of Kayamkulam kingdom. It was renovated some time in the 18th century and is complete with gabled roofs, narrow corridors and dormer windows. The palace has been declared a protected monument by the department of archaeology. One of the most fascinating exhibits here is the 49 sq. metres Gajendra Moksham, the largest single band of mural painting discovered in Kerala. The other attractions include a beautifully landscaped garden in the palace compound and a newly erected Buddha mandapam, where a statue of the Buddha is housed . 

Ambalapuzha Krishna Temple  : A visit to this temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna, will enable you to witness the typical temple architecture of Kerala. You can also get the glimpses of the town culture and taste payasam, if you happen to visit this place during the festival time of March .