Alleppey 'Venice of the East', figures prominently on the tourist trail as one of the major centers for backwater boat trips, served by ferries to Quilon and Kottayam in particular. One of the best-known ports along the coast of Malabar, it is often referred to as the ‘Venice of the East’. Alappuzha has the peculiar geographical feature of having the water in level with the land. This gives the advantage of getting a closer look at the village life on shore while on a backwater ride.
Sailing along in a ‘kettuvallam’ (houseboat) through the enchanting backwaters of Alappuzha is sure to rob your heart. Palm fringed narrow canals winding through the vast expanse of paddy fields and the neat tiny hamlets lined up along either sides of the canals are sights one can never forget. One can glimpse Chinese fishing nets, flocks of ducks swimming around the banks and tiny birds flying across the sky. It is as close as one can get to feel the vibrant life in the countryside of God’s own country.With the Arabian sea on the west and a vast network of lakes, lagoons and fresh water rivers crisscrossing it, Alappuzha is a district of immense natural beauty. Referred to as the Venice of the East by travelers from across the world, this backwater country is also home ot diverse animal and bird life. By virtue of its proximity to the sea, the town has always enjoyed a unique place in the maritime history of Kerala. Alappuzha Backwaters [previously named Alleppey] is popularly referred to as 'Venice of the East', owing to its picture-perfect waterways and canals. It is a popular tourism destination. Whether it is their first journey, or a return trip, travelers continue to frequent the tranquil backwaters. The month of August is the best time to visit Alappuzha. The region plays host to water regattas featuring snake boats and country canoes of varying sizes. Alappuzha Backwaters is renowned for the annual Nehru Trophy Snake Boat Race held on the second Saturday of August.