Alappuzha – fondly remembered as Alleppey – is home to Kerela’s backwaters. The vast waterways network and numerous houseboats make it a must-visit destination. If you take a tour of this quaint town, you will come across a grid of canals.
Alappuzha - Places to Visit
No wonder it is known as the ‘Venice of the East’. But once you make your way to the backwaters, you will discover another side to Alappuzha. The greenery-fringed locations, quaint villages, punted canoes, houseboats, and of course toddy shops, will definitely take your breath away. Alappuzha definitely ranks among Kerala’s most relaxing experiences. Apart from the houseboat cruises and picturesque locales, the district is renowned for its communist traditions. It is famous for the Punnapra-Vayalar uprising against the British as well as a revolt against the Feudal Raj. Alappuzha is connected to other parts of Kerala through waterways, including Kumarakom. Alappuzha is renowned for its backwater holidays, boat races, sandy beaches, marine coir industry and marine products. If you are looking to enjoy a quiet picnic in the midst of nature and sea, Alappuzha beach should be your go-to destination. The pier, which stretches into the sea, is about 137 years old. If you are looking for entertainment, head to Vijaya Beach Park. A visit to the lighthouse is a must. To truly appreciate Alappuzha, one should take a houseboat cruise. The cruises you may stumble across in the backwaters of Alappuzha have upgraded versions of the Kettuvallams of yesteryear. The original Kettuvallams, also known as rice barges, would carry a large volume of rice and spices. This ' boat with knots' were literally held together with the support of coir knots. Nowadays, houseboats come with a host of creature comforts, akin to a hotel. They include furnished bedrooms, living rooms and a kitchen. Some boats even come with a balcony for angling.
The best time to visit Alappuzha is between November and March. There are a host of cultural events that take place during this period. Finding affordable accommodation in Alappuzha will help pave the way for a memorable experience. With OYO Premium, you can now find budget hotels in the district. One can find a host of premium and budget hotels near Alappuzha railway station, Arthungal church, the Beach Light House and Alleppey Beach. Most of the hotels ensure privacy as there are located in the heart of nature and proximate to the backwaters. If you are looking for a peaceful stay away from the madding crowd, book an OYO room in Alappuzha.
Events in Allappuzha
Champakulam Boat Race: June Witness by far the oldest snake boat race organized in the beautiful state of Kerala in the month of June by visiting Pampa River at Champakulam, near Alleppey. Set against the backdrop of the serene river Champakulam, you are in for a treat your eyes to beautifully decorated and carved water floats and boats decorated with flowers racing against one another! The Champakulam Boat race is an event you cannot afford to miss while in Kerala while we at OYO will take care of all your stay needs. Customized rooms according to your taste, we have it all figured out while you sit back and relax to watch this thrilling procession.
Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race: August This snake boat race is undoubtedly the most exciting boat race of the year in Keral held in memory of India's late Prime Minister, Jawahar Lal Nehru. It all started out with an impromptu snake boat race that took place back in 1952 when the Prime Minister visited Alleppey. Apparently he was so smitten and overjoyed with the welcome and the race that he donated a trophy. The race has continued on ever since. It takes place annually on the second Saturday of August and around 70 plus boats usually participate in it. Catch this edition of this amazing boat race like never before by booking your OYO now! With us providing you with the best of amenities, you are sure to have one very enjoyable time just like our former Prime Mister!