Alleppey (Alappuzha): The Land of Snake-Boat Race

Allepey (Alappuzha) is one of the most prominent tourist attractions in Kerala. With a large network of inland waterways and backwater transportation, Allepey is rightly called the "Venice of the East.' The large network of backwaters is the lifeline of the place.

There was a time when Allepey was one of the busiest trading centers because of its proximity to Malabar coasts. Today still it is known for its charm of coir carpets and prawns. It is also called headquarter of backwater tourism because of its backwater network to some lovely places like Kottayam or Aranmula.

How to get there?

The nearest airport to Allepey is Cochin. You can hire a taxi from Cochin to Allepey or take local bus service to the place. The place is well connected to the capital of Kerala and other places in the nation. If you wish to drive yourself, you can take the National Highway number 47 that connects Trivandrum Alleppey. Another great way to reach the place is the waterways from Cochin. It will take nearly 5 hours as you sail splashing the water in a ferry from Cochin to Allepey.

Picturesque View of Backwaters

Have a memorable experience in Allepey especially in the backwaters and the houseboats called "Kettuvallam' in local language. As you glide through the waters sitting cozily on the boats, you will behold the real picturesque beauty of backwaters. The palm fringed canals that wind through the vast expanse of nature and tiny hamlets are really exquisite sights. You will feel the soothing sound of swarms of ducks, chirping of birds, gushing sound of winds and so many things which you rarely enjoy in the posh areas of brick and mortar.

Nehru Snake-Boat Race

Allepey is spectacularly known as the place of snake-boat race. There are different events when such a boat race is held, but the real excitement is for the boat race that is being held on 2nd Saturday of August month every year. This is called Nehru Boat Race, because the first race was inaugurated by the first prime minister of India, Jawaharlal Nehru in 1952. Since then every year, Nehru boat race is held in this place and people from different corners of the state folk here to enjoy the race. You will love the snake boat race where long boats manned and rowed by hundred oarsmen cut through the waters with magnanimous speed. There is a great thrill in this race which draws a large percentage of tourists and visitors to the state.

Places of Interest

You will love visiting some good places in Allepey which are famous for unique tourist attractions.

Ambalapuzha: This place just fourteen kilometer from Allepey and famous for its architectural beauty. You will love visiting the Shri Krishna Temple which is built in typical Kerala style. Visit the temple and don't forget to relish the milk porridge called "palpayasam' of this temple offered to all devotees.

Karumadikkuttan: Another place of interest situated just three kilometer from Allepey. The village is known for historical significance. You will witness old statues and architectural buildings dated back to 10th century.

Champakulam: This is another place of interest in Allepey. You will love the oldest church built in Kerala and the famous mural paintings. You can also see the famous Champakulam snake boats built here.