With the Arabian Sea on the west and a vast network of lakes, lagoons and fresh water rivers crisscrossing it, Alappuzha is a district of immense natural beauty. Referred to as the Venice of the East by travellers from across the world, this backwater country is also home to diverse animal and bird life. By virtue of its proximity to the sea, the town has always enjoyed a unique place in the maritime history of Kerala.

Allappuzha has grown in importance as a backwater tourist centre, attracting several thousands of foreign tourists each year. Alappuzha is also famous for its boat races, houseboat holidays, beaches, marine products and coir industry.

The village of Kumarakom is a cluster of little islands on the Vembanad Lake, and this small water world is part of the Kuttanad region. The bird sanctuary here, which is spread across 14 acres is a favorite haunt of migratory birds and an ornithologist's paradise. Egrets, darters, herons, teal, waterfowl, cuckoo, wild duck and migratory birds like the Siberian stork that live There in flocks are a fascination for visitors.

The best way to watch the birds of the Kumarakom sanctuary is a boat trip round the islands.An unbelievably beautiful paradise of mangrove forests, emerald green paddy fields and coconut groves interspersed with enchanting waterways and canals adorned with while lillies - this is Kumarakom

Backwaters in Kerala - Ashtamudi is the second largest. The Ashtamudi Lake is the gateway to the backwaters. Located in Kollam district, Ashtamudi is famed for its panoramic for its magnificent views.

There are coconut groves and palm trees all along the banks of the lake and the monotony is broken by the quiet town of Kollam. The Kollam Boat Club provides boats to cruise on the lake. You can also go on a backwater cruise starting at Kollam and ending the journey at Alappuzha. Beside the coconut palms, all along the waterline one can see the famous Chinese fishing nets.Kollam was once the port of international spice trade. 30% of this historic town is covered by the renowned Ashtamudi Lake. The eight hour trip between Kollam and Alappuzha is the longest backwater cruise in Kerala.

Known as Queen of the Arabian Sea, Cochin (Kochi) is believed to be the finest natural harbour in the world. It is a cluster of islands on the vast expanse of the Vembanad Lake. Because of its commercial importance, foreign powers vied for supremacy in the area and therefore the place has a blend of several exotic cultures like the Portuguese, Jewish, English, French, Dutch and Chinese.

Ferry rides in Kochi commands a breathtaking view due to its lush green lawns sloping down to the water's edge. Giant Chinese fishing nets that billow from massive teak and bamboo poles dot the entrance to the harbor. Silhouetted against the setting sun, they present a magnificent sight at the waterfront. Houseboats are a unique way to experience the beauty of Cochin. The houseboats glide on the backwaters of Kochi, with panoramic view passing by.

"Kuttanad" in Alappuzha (Alleppey) is one of few places in the world where farming is done below sea level. Kuttanad is a land of lush paddy fields and is called the 'Rice Bowl' of Kerela. Kuttanad stretches for 75 Km sandwiched between the sea and the hills. Kuttanad is the most beautiful backwaters region of Kerala. It is here that most of the snake boat races are conducted and a majority of the rice boat & houseboat cruises are scheduled. Kerala's network of navigable backwaters stretches to over 900km.

These serene waterways are fringed by palm grove and paddy fields and offer a striking spectacle of the rustic life. Situated in Kuttanad popularly known as the rice bowl of Kerala, QST & R Block Kayals (backwaters) remind the visitor of the famous dikes of Holland. A leisurely cruise along the canals here is a memorable experience

Pathiramanal,a small island on the backwaters of Alappuzha,is a haven for hundreds of rare birds migrating from different parts of the world.This little Island on the backwaters is a birdwatcher's delight. Surrounded by the Vembanad Lake,stretching from Alappuzha to Kochi and the Kayamkulam lake,Pathiramanal is accessible only by boat.

The green island thus forms an ideal place for a break in the journey while on a backwater cruise.The mainland Alappuzha has a vast network of lakes, lagoons and fresh water rivers criss crossing it and is a district of immense natural beauty.

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