Alappuzha (Alleppey) – History And Activities To Do In Alleppey

Alappuzha (Alleppey)

Alappuzha (Alleppey) is known as the “Venice of the East”. Offering the best sightseeing spots in Alleppey, this beautiful place is the main water source of Kerala backwaters and home to a large network of backwaters and more than a thousand boats. The boats that you see in the backwaters of Alappuzha are actually reconstructed versions of the old Kettuvallams. Kettuvallam is a Malayalam word, ‘Kettu’ means house and ‘Vallom’ means boat. In the past, kettuvallam or boats with thatched roofs and wooden containers were used to carry large quantities of rice and spices.

Modern boats use all the comforts of a good hotel such as air conditioning, modern toilets, comfortable lounges, kitchens and even balconies for fishing. Uninterrupted views of life in the coconut groves can be enjoyed from a boat. A perfect place to relax with a canal in the background and lush green lawns. The Alappuzha river with its 137-year-old boats entering the sea and the old lighthouse of the 17th century built by the Portuguese adds to the magic of the place. It is famous for its boat racing, marine products and coconut industry

The History of Alleppey

The city is now known for its natural beauty and the backwaters Raja Kesavadas was the divan of Karthika Thirunal Rama Varma in 1762. The only planned city at that time in Travancore was Alleppey with two canals and roads extending from both sides of the water. canal. Being the commercial city of Kerala, the canal was designed in such a way that it would facilitate the movement of goods and promote the business of the city in a comprehensive manner. As the canal developed, the leading merchants of the country came down to Alleppey to expand their business and the royal government of the time provided everything to these merchants. Therefore, the city became a major trading center in the early period.

As the city’s business grows rapidly, many merchants come down for the expansion of their business and shopping as the city provides them with a large government-approved store. Later in 1862, the establishment of a 303-meter-long bridge and a lighthouse made trade as the light from the lighthouse spread over a distance of 20 kilometers. for trade to flourish and for the delivery of these goods and services, roads and canals were installed. By the middle of the 19th century, the sea had receded by a mile, so more land was given for trade in ships.

The call for trading ships was strong and in 1859 the first organized coir factory was established, producing mats from coir yarn on the fabric produced by the English Sea Press. An addition to the city came when in 1816 the Church Missionary Society recognized its first seat in Alleppey.

Three years after its establishment, the first Anglican church was built and in 1851, Alleppey was given the honor of being the site of the first post office in the original state of Travancore. Cochin used to be a natural seaport, urbanization in 1928 reduced the commercial importance of Alleppey City.

In the first decade of the early 20th century, during a visit to Alleppey by the Viceroy of the Indian Empire, Lord Curzon called Alleppey the “Venice of the East”, because he was impressed by its natural beauty. completely. He also protected the landscape. With the independence of the country, as the state of Kerala was established, Cochin as a commercial city and the post of Cochin became a popular destination for ships. However,

Alleppey’s popularity as a trading town eventually declined. But due to its beautiful beauty and stunning views, beautiful backwaters, peaceful surroundings and enchanting beaches have made Alleppey a popular Indian tourist destination for its backcountry.

Activities To Do In Alleppey

Kayaking: Enjoy activities and bird watching

Thus, Alleppey’s backwaters are home to the most spectacular migratory birds on the planet. Brown and white anglers, white morhen, black drongo, Asian swift and wild myna will be ready to appear for your camera every time. Now, all these things can be done while sailing or kayaking one of the beautiful backwaters of Alleppey. There are bird watching tours that can be combined with boat or kayak packages. Beach:

Watch the sunset

This is a visit to a historic space. The Alleppey river line is called Alappuzha – a landmark in India’s maritime history. It has a beautiful and beautiful lighthouse left alone that gives you the most amazing sights to capture. Also, the river has water, coconut products, and a 137-year-old pit that goes down into the ocean.

Snake Boat Race: I had a meeting with the Witnesses

Come August Alleppey is packed with people who come here to watch the Nehru Trophy snake boat race. This race is very beautiful, no doubt. But due to the rush and overcrowding, only a few spectators can enjoy the real pleasure. So visit Alleppey around June when the festival is happening and you can mingle with the boatmen. You can sit back, click pictures and learn about the history of this game in India.

Elephant Parade: Experience the Royal Side of Alleppey

If you are planning your vacation in January and wondering what to do in Alleppey now, don’t worry because there are plenty of options. You can see a famous ten day festival in Alleppey called Adoor Gajamela. Hundreds of elephants take part in these festivities decorated with ornaments. You will be surprised to see that every elephant follows the rider holding an umbrella for the animal. Make sure you attend this festival as it is one of the best things to do in Alleppey.