Alappuzha, Kerala. Known as the Venice of the East, Alappuzha is renowned for its intricate network of tranquil waterways, lined with swaying palms and quaint villages. Our video captures the essence of this idyllic landscape, where traditional houseboats glide gracefully through shimmering waters, offering glimpses of daily life along the banks. Experience the allure of verdant paddy fields, vibrant birdlife, and the timeless charm of rural Kerala. Whether you seek relaxation, cultural immersion, or simply the beauty of untouched nature, the Alappuzha backwaters promise an unforgettable adventure.
Kuttanad is an expanse of water-logged land lying below sea level. Often the level of water here is higher than that of the green paddy fields on either side. Kuttanad bears strong resemblance to Holland in terms of geographical features. Three rivers - the Pamba, the Manimala and the Achankovil - crisscross this region popularly called 'The Rice Bowl' of Kerala, before flowing into the Vembanad Lake. Until a few years ago, water was the main mode of transport. Today buses and trains ply the region. However, the landscape is so unique that a boat trip through Kuttanad is an unforgettable experience - bustling rural life on the banks of the rivers, green expanses of paddy fields and shady coconut grooves.
The houseboats of Kerala have become one of the most exciting tourism products in India. These huge barges were traditionally used to cargo goods are calledKettuvalloms and measure up to 80 feet in length. They are constructed with great skill and meticulousness by tying huge planks of jackwood together without the use of a single nail and coated with a caustic black resin made from boiled cashew kernels.
Today, appropriately called houseboats they have furnished bedrooms, modern toilets, living rooms, kitchenettes and even balconies for angling. Sections of the curved roof of wood or plaited palm leaves open out to provide shade and allow an uninterrupted view of the backwater country. The houseboats are either poled by local oarsmen or powered by engines. All of them have a crew comprising oarsmen, a cook and a guide.
Gliding along the calm and serene backwaters flanked by green palmgroves, watching rural Kerala is a unique experience to any visitor.
Kumarakom is a cluster of little islands on the Vembanad Lake, and is part of the Kuttanad region. Kumarakom is a paradise of mangrove forests, paddy fields and coconut groves interspersed with waterways and canals with white lillies. Traditional country crafts, boats and canoes will take you to the heart of the scenic Vembanad lake by the side of which Kumarakom stands. The Tourist Village at Kumarakom in Kottayam offers exciting houseboat cruises and holiday packages. And for those who want simpler pleasures, which come without a price tag, there's loads of fun to be had fishing, angling or swimming.
Nehru Trophy Boat Race is held on the second Saturday of August every year on Punnamada Lake in Alappuzha district. The major attraction of the boat race is the competition of snake boats or chundan vallams. Ceremonial water processions, spectacular floats and decorated boats are the other attractions during the race.
