Alappuzha (Alleppey) – The Venice of the East
Alappuzha, also known as Alleppey, is a district in Kerala. This district is well-known for its beautiful backwaters, beaches, temples, and traditional boat races. Its rich historical background and abundant natural beauty make it a great place for history buffs and tourists. The district is also a popular wedding destination in India.
History of Alappuzha
Kuttuvans were the inhabitants of Alappuzha during the 1st and 2nd centuries. During the 9th and 12th centuries AD, the place developed culturally under the rule of the Cheras empire. Historians claim Alappuzha had trade relations with many Middle Eastern countries and Greece in medieval times. The advent of the 14th century brought many foreign invaders to mainland India, including the Portuguese, Dutch, and British. Portuguese influence on the culture of Alappuzha was significant. These invaders exploited the land for local spices like black pepper and ginger, which they traded to the international market at very high profits.
After India's independence, a lot of development work was carried out in Alappuzha, which involved the construction of roads and canals. This led to an increase in the number of local tourists, and today, Alappuzha is a top tourist destination in Kerala. At the beginning of the 20th century, Lord Curzon, the viceroy of India, paid a visit to Alappuzha, and he was so impressed by the beauty of the place that he exclaimed: "Here nature has spent up on the land her richest bounties. Alleppey, the Venice of the East". Such quotes aptly define the beauty of Alappuzha.
Places To Visit In Alleppey
Alappuzha, often called the "Venice of the East," is one of Kerala's most popular tourist destinations. Here are some places to visit in Alleppey:
Alleppey is one of the popular tourist places in Kerala. Here's the list of the places to visit in Alleppey.
1. Alappuzha Beach
This beach is so popular in the local area that it is even considered the Venice of the East. Furthermore, it is also considered an important place in Kerala's maritime history. Right now, it is quite famous for its boat races, backwater holidays, and so much more.
2. Backwaters in Alleppey
This was formed by the amalgamation of a plethora of water sources and is just the right postcard view. A good number of coconut trees line the shore, with houseboats in the middle.
3. Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
This is quite an ideal place for all bird lovers. This bird sanctuary is just the right place to wander and spot different birds in the 14 acres of land. Furthermore, it also serves as a home to innumerable rare species of native and migratory birds.
4. Village Life
Also known as the lowest point of India, Kuttanad is all about dense paddy fields, waterways, coconut lines, fishing along with spice cultivation, etc. It is also known as the Rice Bowl of India. What is really interesting to know is the fact that this place has also been declared as one of the Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems in the world.
5. Beaches
In this place, you will find many exceptionally beautiful beaches bestowed by nature. The small town is famous for its scenic beauty. People come here from all over the world to enjoy the beauty of nature. The distance to Kochi from Indian metro cities like Bangalore, Chennai, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Delhi is 530 km, 690 km, 2367 km, 1320 km, and 2694 km, respectively.
If you're wondering how to go to Alleppey, here are your options:
Things to Do in Alappuzha
- Experience a houseboat cruise on the backwaters.
- Relax on Alappuzha and Marari beaches.
- Visit the Nehru Trophy Boat Race (held in August).
- Explore Krishnapuram Palace and Kerala’s heritage.
- Try traditional Kerala cuisine, including seafood and Kerala Sadya.
- Enjoy Ayurvedic spa treatments at luxury resorts.
- Visit Pathiramanal Island for birdwatching.
Best Time to Visit Alappuzha
- October to March (Winter) – Best time for houseboat cruises and sightseeing.
- June to September (Monsoon) – Ideal for nature lovers who enjoy lush greenery.
- April to May (Summer) – Hot and humid, but good for budget travelers.
How to Reach
Alappuzha is a little town located in the Indian state of Kerala. The small town is famous for its scenic beauty. People come here from all over the world to enjoy the beauty of nature. The distance to Kochi from Indian metro cities like Bangalore, Chennai, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Delhi is 530 km, 690 km, 2367 km, 1320 km, and 2694 km respectively.
By Air
The nearest airport is situated in Kochi. Being one of the major cities in South India, there is no doubt that Kochi is properly connected with other cities. Kochi has its own airport, Kochi International Airport. It is 90 kilometres away from the beach. After arriving at Kochi airport, you can board a bus or car to reach Alappuzha beach.
- From Kolkata - You can board flights from Dumdum airport to reach Kochi. Flights from Indigo, Air Asia, Air India are there. It usually takes 2 hours and 55 minutes to reach Kochi from Kolkata. Price 3600 to 5500 INR per person.
- From Delhi - Flights usually take 2 hours and 30 minutes to 3 hours to reach Kochi from Delhi. Price Range 3500 to 4000 INR per person.
- From Mumbai - there are multiple flights from Mumbai to Kochi. The flight will not take more than two and a half hours to reach Kochi from Mumbai airport. Price Range 3700-4000 INR per person.
- From Bangalore - Various airlines offer affordable flights to Kochi, and the journey usually takes 1 hour. You have to pay an average airfare of 1000- 2000 INR per person.
- From Chennai - You can avail flight from Chennai to reach Kochi, and it will take 2486 Indian rupees per person. The duration of the flight will be 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours.
By Train
Kochi is well-connected with other cities by rail routes. You can board trains from junctions like Howrah, New Delhi, Bandra Terminus, etc., situated in these metro cities of India to reach Kochi. Alappuzha railway station is the nearest railway station, which is 1 kilometre away from the beach. Another railway station, Ernakulam, is 60 kilometres away from the beach.
By Road
As previously mentioned, Kochi is one of the most important cities in the southern part of India. If you travel from Chennai or Bangalore, you can access a direct bus service to Kochi. Once you arrive at Kochi, you can take a bus from the KSRTC bus stand to Alappuzha. Apart from state buses, there are private buses as well. Even private cars are also a great option for a road trip experience. February to October is the most convenient time to visit Alappuzha and enjoy the pleasant weather by the beach.
- From Vagamon. 100 km via Changanassery-Vazhoor Road
- From Kottayam. 40-50 km via SH40
- From Thrissur - 130 km via NH66
Conclusion
Alappuzha, with its rich history and natural beauty, offers an unforgettable experience for every traveller. Whether you're exploring historical sites, cruising through scenic backwaters, or unwinding on pristine beaches, this district has something for everyone. For comprehensive Alleppey tourism info, plan your visit during the best season for Alleppey and immerse yourself in the captivating charm of this unique destination. With so many Alleppey tourist places to explore, your trip to this enchanting district will be magical.
Frequently Asked Questions about Kochi
Q1. Why is Alappuzha famous?
A: Most popular for its incredible backwaters, Alleppey in Kerala is also a place to experience beaches, temples and traditional boat races. Its Ayurvedic spas and wellness centres make this a popular tourist destination.
Q2. What is special in Alleppey?
A: Following are some of the best things that you must try while visiting Alleppey:
- Alleppey Lighthouse
- Alleppey Beach
- Houseboats in Alleppey
- Shikara Boat Tours
- Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple
- Kayaking in Alleppey
- Revi Karunakaran Museum
- Mannarasala Temple
Q3. What is the Speciality of the Alappuzha district?
A: The district is best known for its picturesque Kerala Backwaters, which are well connected to other parts of Kerala, including the tourist destination of Kumarakom. The district is a well-known tourist destination in India.
Q4. Which is the best time to visit Alleppey?
A: Winters (October to February) are the best time to visit and explore Alleppey. During the season, which begins in November and lasts until February, the city experiences temperatures between 18°C and 33°C.
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