One of the exotic backwater locales of India’s southern state of Kerala, the town of Alappuzha, or Alleppey as it was called, is famous for its annual boat race that draws thousands of tourists from all over the country and world. Alappuzha is also the headquarters of Kerala’s coir industry and an important place for cashew nut processing. The town is bound by Kochi and Kanayannur in north; Vaikom, Kottayam, Changanassery Thiruvalla, Kozhencherry and Adoor taluks in east; Kannathur and Karunagappallyin in south and Lakshadweep islands in its west.

The Portuguese were the predominant rulers of this place before the Dutch took over. It was only during the reign of Maharaja Marthandavarma that the town of Alappuzha became a busy commercial place.

Alappuzha has a humid climate. The winters are relatively more pleasant and ideal time to visit this place.

Washed by the Arabian Sea and interlocked by a number of canals and bridges, Alappuzha is a pleasant and easygoing destination. A trip to this place during mid-December enables you take part in the festivities at the town temple. A walk through the streets makes you familiar with the Kerala style of architecture. The major destinations in the town include Kuttanad, Alappuzha Beach, Sea View Park, and Pathiramanal

The places around Alappuzha provide an equally interesting experience for the visitor. One gets insight into the region’s past by visiting the palaces built here. Also a visit to the churches and temples gives one an idea of how religion fared in this region over the period of time. Some of the major excursions around Alappuzha are Arthunkal, Edatgya Church, Chavara Bhavan, Krishnapuram Palace, and Ambalapuzha Krishna temple.