Kuttanad is a region in the state of Kerala, India, that is known for its lush green paddy fields, scenic backwaters, and rich culture. It is often called the Rice Bowl of Kerala, as it produces the majority of the rice in the state. Kuttanad is also the only region in India where farming is done below sea level, using a system of dikes and canals that control the water level. This makes Kuttanad a unique and fascinating destination for travellers who want to experience a different side of Kerala.
In this article, we will take you on a journey through Kuttanad, and show you why it is a must-visit place for anyone who loves nature, culture, and adventure. We will also give you some tips on how to reach, where to stay, and what to do in Kuttanad. So, let's get started!
Kuttanad's Unique Geography and Farming
Kuttanad is located in the district of Alappuzha, also known as Alleppey, in Kerala. It covers an area of about 900 square kilometres, and is bordered by the Arabian Sea, the Vembanad Lake, and the hills of the Western Ghats. Kuttanad is divided into four regions: Upper Kuttanad, Lower Kuttanad, North Kuttanad, and Kainakary.
The most distinctive feature of Kuttanad is its geography, which is characterized by low-lying land that is below sea level. The average elevation of Kuttanad is about 0.6 metres below sea level, and some parts are as low as 2.2 metres below sea level. This makes Kuttanad prone to flooding, especially during the monsoon season.
To cope with this challenge, the farmers of Kuttanad have developed a remarkable system of water management, that involves building dikes and canals to regulate the water level and prevent saltwater intrusion. The dikes also create artificial islands, called padsekharams, where the farmers grow rice and other crops. The canals, on the other hand, serve as the main mode of transportation and irrigation in Kuttanad.
The farmers of Kuttanad are known for their hard work and innovation, as they have adapted to the harsh conditions and cultivated rice for centuries. They practice a unique method of rice cultivation, called pokkali, which involves alternating rice and prawn farming in the same field. This helps to maintain the soil fertility and prevent pests and diseases. The rice grown in Kuttanad is of high quality and has a distinct flavour and aroma.
Kuttanad's Backwater Tourism and Attractions
Kuttanad is not only famous for its rice cultivation, but also for its backwater tourism. The backwaters are a network of lakes, lagoons, rivers, and canals that connect the coastal and inland regions of Kerala. They are home to a variety of flora and fauna, and offer a glimpse into the rural life and culture of Kerala.
One of the best ways to enjoy the backwaters of Kuttanad is to take a houseboat cruise, which is a traditional wooden boat that has been converted into a floating hotel. A houseboat cruise will take you through the serene and scenic waterways of Kuttanad, and let you experience the hospitality and cuisine of the local people. You can also witness the daily activities of the farmers, fishermen, and boatmen, and observe the wildlife and birds that inhabit the backwaters.
Another option to explore the backwaters of Kuttanad is to take a canoe ride, which is a small and narrow boat that is propelled by a paddle. A canoe ride will allow you to get closer to the nature and culture of Kuttanad, and visit some of the hidden and offbeat places that are not accessible by a houseboat. You can also interact with the locals and learn more about their traditions and customs.
Other attractions
Apart from the backwater activities, Kuttanad also has some other attractions that are worth visiting. Here are some of the most popular ones:
Champakulam:
This is a village in Kuttanad that is famous for its ancient church, the St. Mary's Forane Church, which is believed to be one of the oldest churches in India. The church has a beautiful architecture and a rich history, and is also the venue of the Champakulam Moolam Boat Race, which is one of the oldest and most prestigious boat races in Kerala.
Punnamada Lake:
This is a large lake in Kuttanad that is the site of the Nehru Trophy Boat Race, which is the most famous and competitive boat race in Kerala. The boat race is held every year on the second Saturday of August, and attracts thousands of spectators and participants. The boat race features different types of boats, such as chundan vallams (snake boats), veppu vallams (country boats), odi vallams (small boats), and iruttukuthi vallams (fast boats).
Pathiramanal Island:
This is a small island in the Vembanad Lake that is a haven for bird lovers. The island is home to more than 90 species of birds, both migratory and resident, such as cormorants, herons, egrets, darters, kingfishers, and terns. The island is also known for its biodiversity and scenic beauty, and can be reached by a boat from Muhamma or Kumarakom.
Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary:
This is a bird sanctuary that is located on the banks of the Vembanad Lake, near the village of Kumarakom. The sanctuary covers an area of about 14 acres, and is a paradise for bird watchers and nature lovers. The sanctuary hosts a variety of birds, such as waterfowl, cuckoos, owls, parrots, flycatchers, and woodpeckers. The sanctuary also offers boat rides, nature trails, and cottages for accommodation.
The best time to visit Kuttanad is from November to February, when the weather is pleasant and the backwaters are full of water. You can also visit Kuttanad during the monsoon season, from June to September, when the landscape is green and lush, and the boat races are held. However, you may have to face some heavy rainfall and flooding during this time.
How to Reach and Where to Stay in Kuttanad
Kuttanad is well-connected by air, rail, and road, and can be easily reached from any part of Kerala or India. Here are some of the ways to reach Kuttanad:
- By air:
The nearest airport to Kuttanad is the Cochin International Airport, which is about 85 kilometres away. The airport has flights to and from major domestic and international destinations, such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Dubai, Singapore, and London. From the airport, you can take a taxi, bus, or train to Kuttanad.
- By rail:
The nearest railway station to Kuttanad is the Alappuzha Railway Station, which is about 20 kilometres away. The station is well-connected to other major railway stations in Kerala and India, such as Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, Kozhikode, Kollam, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Palakkad, and Mangalore. From the station, you can take a taxi, bus, or boat to Kuttanad.
- By road:
Kuttanad is accessible by road from various parts of Kerala and India, via the National Highway 66 and the State Highway 11. You can also take a bus from the nearby towns and cities, such as Alappuzha, Kottayam, Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, and Kozhikode. Alternatively, you can hire a car or a bike and drive to Kuttanad.
Kuttanad offers a range of accommodation options for travellers, depending on their budget and preference. You can choose from hotels, homestays, resorts, and houseboats, that cater to different types of travellers, such as families, solo travellers, couples, and groups. Some of the best places to stay in Kuttanad are:
Lake Palace Resort:
This is a luxury resort that is located on the banks of the Vembanad Lake, near the Alappuzha town. The resort has spacious and elegant rooms, cottages, and villas, that offer a panoramic view of the lake and the paddy fields. The resort also has a swimming pool, a spa, a restaurant, a bar, and a conference hall. The resort also arranges for houseboat cruises, canoe rides, fishing, and cultural programs for the guests.
Punnamada Resort:
This is another luxury resort that is situated on the banks of the Punnamada Lake, near the Alappuzha town. The resort has traditional and modern rooms, cottages, and villas, that offer a splendid view of the lake and the surroundings. The resort also has a swimming pool, a spa, a restaurant, a coffee shop, and a library. The resort also organizes houseboat cruises, canoe rides, fishing, and cultural programs for the guests.
Kuttanad River Resort:
This is a budget-friendly resort that is located on the banks of the Pampa River, in the village of Pulinkunnu. The resort has simple and cozy rooms, cottages, and tents, that offer a peaceful and relaxing stay. The resort also has a garden, a restaurant, a barbecue, and a campfire. The resort also arranges for houseboat cruises, canoe rides, fishing, and village tours for the guests.
Kerala Houseboats:
This is a houseboat service that offers a variety of houseboats, ranging from deluxe to premium, that can accommodate different numbers of guests, from two to ten. The houseboats are equipped with all the amenities and facilities, such as bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchen, dining area, and lounge. The houseboats also have a crew of a captain, a cook, and a helper, who take care of the guests’ needs and comfort. The houseboats cruise through the backwaters of Kuttanad, and stop at various places of interest, such as temples, churches, markets, and farms. The houseboats also serve delicious Kerala cuisine, prepared with fresh and local ingredients.
Kuttanad is a unique and beautiful destination in Kerala, that offers a blend of nature, culture, and adventure. It is a place where you can witness the amazing feat of farming below sea level, and enjoy the serene and scenic backwaters. It is a place where you can experience the hospitality and cuisine of the local people, and explore the various attractions and activities. It is a place where you can relax and rejuvenate, and create some unforgettable memories.
If you are looking for a different and delightful holiday in Kerala, then Kuttanad is the perfect choice for you. You can book your travel package for Kuttanad with Tripoto, and get the best deals and offers. Tripoto is a trusted and reliable platform that connects travellers with local experts and agents, and helps them plan and book their trips. Tripoto also has a community of travellers who share their stories, tips, and reviews, and inspire others to travel more.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to Kuttanad, the Rice Bowl of Kerala and a Backwater Paradise. And don’t forget to share your experience with us on Tripoto!
