Image Source: Kv Gopalakrishnan
About Alleppey Backwaters
The Alleppey Backwaters, also known as the Alappuzha Backwaters, are among the most iconic attractions of Kerala tourism. Fondly called the “Venice of the East,” this labyrinth of interconnected canals, rivers, lagoons, and lakes offers one of the most enchanting water-bound landscapes in India.
Located in Alappuzha district, the backwaters are famed for their houseboat cruises, lush paddy fields, coconut groves, and traditional village life, making them a unique cultural and natural experience.
Geography
The Alleppey backwaters form part of the larger Kerala Backwater network, which stretches parallel to the Arabian Sea coast. The region is shaped by the Vembanad Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Kerala, and nourished by rivers such as Pamba, Achankovil, and Manimala. The waterways connect villages, towns, and agricultural lands, creating a lifeline for the people of Alappuzha.
Highlights and Attractions
Houseboat Cruises (Kettuvallams) – The most famous attraction, these traditional rice barges have been converted into luxurious floating cottages with bedrooms, dining areas, and sundecks. Cruising through the canals allows travelers to witness village life, coconut groves, and paddy fields up close.
Snake Boat Races (Vallamkali) – The annual Nehru Trophy Boat Race, held in August on the Punnamada Lake, is a spectacular event showcasing Kerala’s culture and competitive spirit.
Village Life and Coir Industry – The backwaters provide a window into rural Kerala, where locals are engaged in coir-making, fishing, toddy tapping, and farming.
Birdwatching and Biodiversity – The wetlands around the backwaters are home to migratory birds like herons, kingfishers, cormorants, and Brahminy kites, making it a paradise for nature lovers.
Island Experiences – Small islands like Pathiramanal offer opportunities for eco-tourism and nature walks.
Cultural and Local Significance
The Alleppey Backwaters are deeply tied to Kerala’s agrarian and maritime traditions. Known for Kuttanad (the rice bowl of Kerala), this region has a unique below-sea-level farming system, one of the few places in the world where cultivation happens below sea level. Life in Alleppey revolves around the water, with people commuting by boats, transporting goods, and celebrating festivals along the canals.
Best Time to Visit
November to February – The most pleasant season, ideal for houseboat stays and sightseeing.
March to May – Hot and humid but still suitable for shorter cruises.
June to September – The monsoon season, offering lush greenery and dramatic rains, perfect for Ayurvedic treatments and wellness seekers.
Local Cuisine
A backwater cruise is incomplete without tasting authentic Kerala cuisine. Houseboats often serve freshly prepared meals such as:
Karimeen pollichathu (pearl spot fish roasted in banana leaf)
Chemmeen curry (prawns in coconut gravy)
Appam with stew
Tapioca with fish curry
Traditional toddy (kallu) tapped from coconut palms.
Nearby Attractions
Alleppey Beach – Famous for its old pier and sunset views.
Ambalappuzha Sri Krishna Temple – Known for its sweet milk pudding, Palpayasam.
Pathiramanal Island – A small island on Vembanad Lake popular among birdwatchers.
Marari Beach – A serene and less crowded coastal escape near Alappuzha.