Kerala Tradition & Fascinating Destinations 2014 Kerala Tradition & Destinations 2014 | Page 165

Area : 1256 sq kms
Population (2001) : 21,05,349
Altitude : Sea level
Clothing : Tropical
Tourist Season : August to March
With Arabian Sea in the west and intertwined by a vast
network of lakes, lagoons and fresh water rivers
Alappuzha is a district of immense natural beauty. The
never ending panorama of backwaters, lush paddy
fields, glorious greeneries give Alappuzha a great
significance in the tourist map of Kerala. This backwater
abode is also home for diverse animals and birds.
‘Venice of the East’ is the synonym for Alappuzha. This
was once a leading port of Southern India with
commodities like spices, coir and aquatic products
dominating exports. Alleppey green is the main variety
among cardamom exported to all the major countries.
This commodity imbibed its name not because it was
produced or processed here, but it was exported from
Alleppey port. Today Alappuzha is an important
backwater destination attracting several thousands
foreign tourists every year. Alappuzha is also famous
for its boat races, beaches, marine products and coir
industry. A singularity of this district is the region called
Kuttanad – a land of lush paddy fields referred to as the
rice bowl of Kerala and one of the few places in the
world where farming is done below the sea level.
Telephone Access Codes
Alappuzha ++ 91 477
Chenganoor ++ 91 479
Cherthala ++ 91 478
Haripad ++ 91 479
Kalavoor ++ 91 477
Kayamkulam ++ 91 479
Mavelikkara ++ 91 479