Introduction

Punnamada Kayal is the lifeline of Alleppey. It opens up a serene world of emerald green canals past scenic islands, lush paddy fields and coconut groves, Chinese fishing nets, and a clear sapphire sky reflected in the still waters. Cruise the backwaters in a canoe and enjoy the languid pace of country life on this narrow strip between the Arabian Sea and Punnamada Lake. Drift past fishermen hamlets and you will see toddy tappers going through their daily routine, beautifully bronzed men on their way to the paddy field, and fishermen wading into the water to make their catch. There are some manmade islands too that you can access on a backwater cruise, situated below sea level. R Block, one of the strips in Alleppey backwater cruise, is particularly famous for the fresh toddy served to travelers.

A major draw to the lively waterways of Punnamada is the Nehru Trophy Boat Race, Kerala’s most colorful water sport conducted on the second Saturday of August every year. This one-of-its-kind boat race in Alleppey is Kerala’s most prestigious cultural event that sees a massive gathering of people from around the world. The festive spirit among locals at this time of the year is unmistakable. The gigantic snake-boats with hundreds of rowers in each race to finish to the accompaniment of rousing music - the continuous swishing of water, and the oarsmen muscling their way through the lake with a hum on their lips, is an image of Kerala most travelers reckon with. Today, the boat race on Punnamada Kayal has grown into Alleppey’s single most important tourist event with boats sponsored by different villages, and the contestants representing these villages.

If you can make it in time for the Nehru Trophy, you will be rewarded with some truly unique sights, sounds and colors, else simply float on the backwaters and watch the fishermen hamlets go by.

Special Attributes

A major draw to the lively waterways of Punnamada is the Nehru Trophy Boat Race held on the second Saturday of August every year.

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Dress is whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

You can hire an auto-rickshaw to the jetty

Enjoyed by

Families, Senior Citizens, Backpackers, Kids, Honeymooners

Exposure

You will mostly be under the open sky of Alleppey. While boating, especially in the afternoon the sun can scorch, so you are advised to carry sunshades, cap, sunscreen lotion and a bottle of drinking water.

Avoidable Season

April, May, June, July

Facilities

Get a glimpse into the local way of life and try out some fresh toddy at R Block

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction.

Tip

Begin your cruise early in the day so that you can see how a day begins in the backwaters, and the routine locals go through till sunset.

Type of site

Backwater cruise