ALLEPPEY

Known as the Venice of the East, Alleppey has always played an important role in Kerala’s maritime history. Today, he is famous for boat racing, backwater vacations, beaches, seafood and the coir industry. Alleppey Beach is a popular picnic spot. The pier that goes down to the sea here is over 137 years old. Entertainment options at Vijaya Beach Park add to the appeal of the beach. There is also an old lighthouse nearby which attracts all visitors. Another great experience at Alleppey is a houseboat ride. The houseboats on the Alleppey backwaters are actually converted old kettuvarams. Kettuvallam is a Malayalam word where ‘Kettu’ means dwelling and ‘Vallom’ means boat. Kettuvallam, or boats with thatched roofs over wooden hulls, were once used to transport large quantities of rice and spices. Nearest railway station: Alappuzha Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport, about 85 km from Alappuzha town.