Alleppey

Alleppey, officially known as Alappuzha, is a picturesque coastal town in Kerala, often celebrated as the heart of the state’s backwaters. Located along the Arabian Sea, this charming town is famous for its intricate network of canals, lagoons, and lush green landscapes, which together create a serene environment that feels worlds away from urban hustle. The town’s rich history dates back to the 18th century, when it rose to prominence under the leadership of Raja Kesavadas, the visionary Dewan of Travancore. During his tenure, Alleppey was developed as a major port town and trade center, becoming a hub for the export of spices, coir, coconut products, and other local commodities. This strategic importance helped Alleppey grow into a thriving center of commerce, connecting Kerala with international markets. The town’s elaborate canal system, originally designed for the transportation of goods, earned it the nickname “Venice of the East”, a title that continues to attract travelers seeking picturesque waterways and tranquil backwaters. Over the years, these canals evolved from commercial routes into scenic tourism lifelines. Today, Vembanad Lake and its connecting waterways form the backbone of Kerala tourism, offering visitors the unforgettable experience of drifting through palm-fringed canals aboard traditional houseboats. These houseboats, locally called kettuvallams, glide through paddy fields, coconut groves, and tiny villages, allowing tourists to witness the region’s natural beauty and rural lifestyle up close. Culturally, Alleppey is equally vibrant. The town hosts the renowned Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race, a thrilling annual event where teams row long, elaborately decorated boats in fierce competition, reflecting centuries-old traditions and community spirit. Beyond the boat races, Alleppey’s local culture thrives through colorful temple festivals, traditional art forms such as Kathakali and Mohiniyattam, and the everyday rhythms of village life. Visitors can explore local markets, watch coir-making and coconut weaving, and interact with friendly locals, immersing themselves in the authentic Kerala experience. Whether it’s the mesmerizing sunsets over backwaters, the gentle sway of houseboats, or the rich cultural traditions that surround them, Alleppey offers a unique blend of history, nature, and heritage that captivates every traveler.