Alleppey is one of the most important tourist centers in
the state of Kerala with its large network of inland canals earning..
This large network of canals provide Alleppey its lifeline. Alleppey
was one of the busiest centers of trade in the past with one of
the best ports along the malabar coast. Today it retains its charm
as the centre for Coir carpet industries and prawn farming. Alleppey
the ideal headquarters for backwater tourism as well as for visits
to the lovely church filled town of Kottayam and Aranmula, famous
for its historic Aranmula Snake Boat Race which is an annual event.
Alleppey is also known for its spectacular snake boat race held
on the second Saturday of August every year. Snake boat rase is
known as Nehru boat race which takes its name from India's first
prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru, who inaugurated in 1952. It is
excitement all around as snake - boats , each manned by over a
hundred oarsmen, cut through the back waters.
The boat cruise along the backwaters of Alleppey give first hand
experience of the life style of the people of this region. During
your houseboat ride experience you will come across toddy tapping,
fishing for small fry, Coir-making, prawn farming etc.