With the Arabian Sea on its West and surrounded by a beautiful network of lakes, lagoons and fresh water bodies, lies Alappuzha (previously Alleppey) – The Venice of the East. A land blessed with natural beauty and diversity.
Alleppey is also famous for boat races, enchanting beaches and coir industry. Alleppey is an integral part of Kerala’s Tourism Scenario, for the journey through Kerala backwaters in houseboats (Kettuvallam/Boat House).
Kettuvalloms or Houseboats (Riceboats) are country boats that were used in the early days for the transport of goods from the isolated interior villages to the towns. With the advent of roads, bridges and ferry services, gradually the Kettuvalloms went off the scene. Now these Kettuvalloms are back again as a major tourist attraction. A ride on a Kettuvallom is a nice way to explore the fascinating beauty of the backwaters of Kerala.
Houseboats are typically made up of wood and have average lengths of 60-70 feet, although bigger versions are also available today. The house boats are fully furnished single and double rooms with sundeck, balcony with comfortable chairs, kitchen and toilet with WC. Bigger houseboats are 2 storied one with balcony for the bedrooms. In addition there is also separate rest room for the crew. The crew includes a chef and two oarsmen. The cuisine is traditional Kerala flavour with the local specialities; delicious fish and prawns. 
A typical houseboat has
- Bedrooms (AC/Non AC) with attached bath
- Kitchen with a Traditional Kerala Cook
- A Navigator/Guide
- A Living Area of a deck for viewing.
While enjoying the houseboat ride you can also halt in between to stretch your legs on the shore, take in a quick bottle of fresh sweet toddy from a local pub (Liquor), or just climb up a coconut tree and make life long memories.
How to reach Alleppey:
| Air | The nearest airport is at Cochin (India). |
| Rail | Alleppey Railway Station. Connected by rail with Cochin and Trivandrum. |
| Road | Well connected by road (NH-47). Trivandrum – Alleppey : 160 km, Cochin – Alleppey : 70 km. |
| Water | Connected with Cochin (5 1/2 hrs), Quilon (8 hrs) and Kottayam (2 1/2 hrs) |
If you are interested in having a ride in the enchanting houseboat, you can mail us at admin@nirmaltv.com or call us at +91 99860 68558. We have several packages from 1 to 10 days full along through the entire Kerala backwater. You can enjoy your Holidays in the safest way!
Looks cool. Definitely would like to visit Alleppey.
Do you guys conduct some tour package or something? How much would it cost if I were to stay for 2-3 days there.
Hi Nirmal,
I agree with the post. The Allepey Backwaters are really a mesmerizing experience.
In fact, this new year, I had celebrated in Allepey, and I was part of the gathering at Arcedia Regency (probably there itself you got engaged………….am I right).
@Ashwin,
Email: admin@nirmaltv.com
We do have tour packages, it will be for Alleppey backwaters in a houseboat, which will be fully furnished and including food. The rate depends on number of people and how many days you would like to hire the boat. If you are interested you can mail me with the details, I can arrange a good trip for you.
@ Webtools,
You are right, my engagement was in Arcadia Regency.
I remember Alleppey because the only train that connects Chennai to my home town is one which starts at Alleppy. I have been to Kerala once and I was in love with the natural beauty. There was another thing that attracted my attention, Wives struck by Gulf syndrome (as men mostly go to Gulf to earn so the wives are left alone back home)
Sharique,
I guess the train you are referring is Tata Dhanbad-Alleppey Exp?
Alleppey is really a beautiful place. Since you are now in Chennai, do come to Alleppey.
Yes Nirmal that train only. I will certainly visit the whole of Kerala shortly
You are Welcome! Do mail me if you need any help on travel and accommodation.