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3/14/13

Alleppey - Venice of the East


 alleppey backwaters Located in Kerala, in God’s own country lies Alleppey, a quaint town in the Alappuzha district. The pristine backwaters flanked by palm trees have earned it the name “Venice of the East”.
It provides you with a true insight into the backwaters of Kerala with a glimpse into the life of the country folk.
Alleppey derives its support from the large network of canals.
Considered to be the oldest planned town in this region, Alleppey is one of the most important tourist centers in the state. The sun-kissed beaches, the timeless coves, the bustling shores and canals will bowl you over and leave you wanting more.
backwaters
beach
backwaters at night
It the past, it was one of the busiest centers of trade with one of the best known ports along the Malabar coast. Even today, it is famous as the centre for Coir carpet industries and prawn farming.
 alleppey backwaters 2
An event not worth missing is the fabulous snake-boat races which are held on the second Saturday of august every year.  Known as the Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race, it is named after India’s first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru, who inaugurated it in 1952.  It is a sight to behold as each snake-boat manned by over a hundred oarsmen zoom through the water, competing for the cup.
nehru boat race
The Ambalapuzha temple festival is also worth a visit. The Krishna idol is carried over quite a distance by 5 elephants. The temple is 14 kilometers away from Alappuzha and is renowned for its rose palpayasam.
temple
Complete your stay by staying on one of the many different varieties of houseboats on offer.  As they come with drivers and a cook, you can gorge on delicious fish and prawns while observing the life of the village people and relax on the lake.
houseboat
interior of houseboat

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