Alappuzha is known as the Venice of the East not just because of its labyrinthine network of backwaters and canals but also due to the fact that it is a land of timeless beauty with a surprise waiting for you at every turn.

This peculiar geography of the land itself is the reason why people here lead a distinct water based lifestyle.

Alappuzha is also famous for its Snake Boat races (Vallamkali) which is considered as biggest team sport event in the world.

Airway
• 64 km from Cochin International airport
• 159 km from Trivandrum airport

Roadway
• Connected to rest of Kerala by NH47

Railways
• Railway station is in the heart of the town

Waterways
Regular services available from
• Cochin
• Kumarakom
• Kottayam
• Kollam

Though you take a rickshaw or even a taxi for roaming around the town, buses are the cheapest mode of transportation here. You could even take a boat if you really want to get the hang of it.

Kuttanad

• Rice bowl of Kerala
• Spread over an area of over 75 km
• Cruising through the Vembanad lake gives you an enchanting view into the surreal beauty of Kuttanad

Pathiramanal

• An ornithologists haven
• Located between Thanneermukkam and Kumarakom
• Speed boats are available to reach this island

Karumadikkutan Temple

• In the village of Karumadi, near Ambalappuzha
• A tenth century idol of Lord Buddha made of black granite

Mararikkulam

• For that ideal beach
• Ideal for swimming and other water sports

Ambalapuzha Temple

• 10 km south of Alappuzha town
• Temple dedicated to Lord Krishna
• Famous for mural paintings and Palpayasam
• Built in traditional architectural style of kerala

Krishnapuram Palace

• Built by His Highness Marthanda Varma
• Exquisite mural paintings and architectural marvel
• An archeological museum

Arthunkal Church

• Dedicated to St. Sebastian
• Built by Portuguese
• Located at about 22 km north of Alappuzha

House Boats:-
Just lie down and relax as you cruise the emerald backwaters with mind blowing views of the picture perfect country side. These house boats come equipped with all modern amenities and your own personal cook .

Snake Boat Races:-
Get an up close view of the exciting race

Toddy shops:-
Toddy, a beverage made from the coconut tree is one thing you just can miss. Local toddy shops are famous for their spicy mouth watering dishes made from tapioca and fish.

Location
Located in Southern Kerala sharing borders with the districts of Kollam, Ernakulam, Kottayam, and Pathanamthitta. Alleppey is at a distance of 64 km from Cochin and 162 km from the state capital Thiruvananthapuram.

Climate
Being close to the sea, the place enjoys a moderate tropical climate. Alappuzha gets an annual rainfall close to 229 cm. The place has a minimum temperature that hovers around 20 degree Celsius in winter and a maximum temperature of 35 degree celsius in summer.

Best Time To Visit
The period from August to March is considered an ideal time for visiting the place. This has been recently redefined with the concept of “Monsoon Tourism” gaining wide popularity. The much acclaimed Snake Boat races are held during the month of August.

Eateries
Try some of the mouthwatering seafood delights like ‘Karimeen Pollichathu’ (Pearl Spotted fish cooked in a banana leaf), ‘Konju Ulathiyathu’ (Tiger Prawns) and ‘Chemmeen Fry’ (Prawns). If you are in the mood to try something hot and spicy, try the food at ‘Toddy shops’. Try some indigenous snacks like jackfruit chips or banana chips which are available in almost all the shops.

Shopping
Alleppey is famous for its coir products made of best quality and fine craftsmanship. You can buy interesting toys and sculptures made from coconut shells. If you want, you can do some textile and jewellery shopping here.

Boats once used for war - The “snake boats” that cruise peacefully through the backwaters were once powerful fighting-vehicles carrying soldiers when wars were fought between the local kings. Each of these boats used to carry more than 100 soldiers.

Venice of the East -This popular cliché was first used by the Governor General and Viceroy of India - Lord Curzon, to describe the beauty of Alleppey.