Alleppey/Alappuzha Backwaters
Exploring Water World, Now in the City of Lakes, Canals and Lagoons !!
The backwaters (kayals) are a wide networks of canals, lakes and lagoons. Popularly known as the Venice of the East, alleppey is one of the most popular beach spots of Kerela. alleppey or Alappuzha is very rich in diverse animal and bird life. Recently, Alappuzha has grown as a major player in backwater tourism. It provides tourists with unique marine beauty, peaceful atmosphere, boat cruises and the pleasure of water sports.
Boat races, Houseboat Holidays, Beaches, Marine Products and Coir Industry are some of the major attractions here at alleppey. Crystal clear waters of the lakes, amazing shades of green, coconut palms and mangroves collectively make this spot a green paradise. Kerala is blessed with 44 rivers (including lakes and other waterways). These waterways play a vital role in Kerala's economy, healthy vegetation and agriculture. These are very economical modes of transport too.
The ecosystem of backwaters is also unique. The freshwater from the rivers meets the sea water from the Arabian Sea. The backwaters provide an opportunity to explore the natural beauty and flora & fauna very closely. While on a Houseboat, you can see aqua life flourish in these backwaters. Backwaters are the habitat for mudskippers, frogs, crabs, turtles and otters. You can also see several bird species like cormorant, darter, kingfisher etc. These calm waterways are surrounded by palm trees, coconut trees and numerous leafy plants and bushes.
Backwaters are perfect spots for nature lovers. Most of the tourists visit this place during Onam festival, which falls in August-September. Onam is popular for the snake boat races. The backwaters are fully packed with snake boats during the ten days of this festival. Tourists can enjoy houseboat cruises, motor boat rides, canoes rides and other boat rides in alleppey. alleppey backwaters are also famous for activities like surfing, para-sailing, beach volleyball and swimming in the clear blue sea. |
