Alappuzha - Venice of the East

[Anu]

Alappuzha (often still called Alleppey) is famously known as the "Venice of the East," a title given by Lord Curzon. It is perhaps the most iconic tourist destination in Kerala, defined by its vast network of canals, lagoons, and giant backwaters.

Here is everything you need to know about Alappuzha:

The Backwater Capital
Alappuzha is world-renowned for its backwater tourism.

Houseboats (Kettuvallams): Originally used to transport rice and spices, these giant wooden boats have been converted into luxury floating hotels.

Vembanad Lake: Alappuzha sits on the banks of this lake, which is the longest lake in India.

Canal System: The town is crisscrossed by saltwater canals, which is why it earned its "Venice" nickname.

Kuttanad: The Rice Bowl of Kerala
A major part of Alappuzha is Kuttanad, a region with a very rare geographical feature.

Below Sea Level Farming: It is one of the few places in the world where farming is done 1.5 to 2 meters below sea level.

Landscape: It is a breathtaking expanse of lush green paddy fields divided by dikes and coconut groves.

Top Attractions
Alappuzha Beach: Known for its 150-year-old pier extending into the sea and a historic lighthouse.

Marari Beach: A quiet, serene beach located in Mararikulam, perfect for those seeking peace away from the crowds.

Pathiramanal Island: A small island in the backwaters that is a haven for hundreds of rare migratory birds.

Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple: Famous for its unique architecture and the delicious Ambalappuzha Palpayasam (sweet milk porridge).

Krishnapuram Palace: An 18th-century palace built by the Travancore kings, famous for its Gajendra Moksham mural painting, the largest of its kind in Kerala.

The Nehru Trophy Boat Race
Alappuzha is the home of the world-famous Snake Boat Races (Vallam Kali).

The most prestigious is the Nehru Trophy Boat Race, held annually on the second Saturday of August at Punnamada Lake.

Dozens of long "snake boats" (Chundan Vallams), each manned by over 100 rowers, compete to the rhythm of traditional songs (Vanchipattu).

Economy and Industry
Coir Industry: Alappuzha is the center of the coir industry in India. Coir is a fiber extracted from coconut husks used to make mats, rugs, and ropes.

Agriculture & Fishing: Since it is surrounded by water, paddy cultivation and inland fishing are the primary livelihoods for locals.

Food You Must Try
If you visit Alappuzha, the local cuisine is a highlight:

Karimeen Pollichathu: Pearl Spot fish marinated in spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and grilled.

Toddy Shop Food: Famous for spicy duck curry (Kuttanadan Duck Roast) and mashed tapioca (Kappa).