Alappuzha, also called Alleppey – is the hub of Kerala's backwaters, home to a vast network of waterways, over a thousand houseboats and an important coir industry. Wandering around the small but chaotic city centre, with its modest grid of canals, you'd be hard-pressed to agree with the 'Venice of the East' tag, and, sadly, at research time a hulking new highway flyover was marring the beauty of Alleppey's popular beach. But head out towards the backwaters and Alleppey becomes graceful and greenery-fringed, disappearing into a watery world of villages, punted canoes, toddy shops and, of course, houseboats. Floating along and gazing over paddy fields of succulent green, curvaceous rice barges and village life along the banks is one of Kerala’s most mesmerisingly beautiful and relaxing experiences.
If Kerala is the ‘Backwater Capital of India’, Alappuzha should be called as the ‘Backwater Paradise in God’s Own Country’! Located around 62km from the moderncity of Cochin and around 155km from the state capital Thiruvananthapuram, Alappuzha is among the most coveted tourist destinations in Kerala.Located on the banks of the turquoise Vembanad Lake, this tourist plays a host most of the houseboat cruises in Kerala.Fondly called the ‘Venetian Capital of Kerala’ or the ‘Venice of the East’, this picturesque city is known for its enchanting backwaters, scenic beauty, evergreen coconut groves, intricate network of canals, and other natural bounties. Whether you are a nature lover, searching for romantic destinations, planning for a family or a solo trip, Alappuzha can be your next destination!