Kuttanad, sandwiched between the
Arabian Sea and the mighty
Western Ghats, is one of the exotic tourist destinations in the world where nature is at its stupendous best – its meandering rivulets and canals, the serene backwaters lined with dense tropical greenery and the vast expanses of green paddy fields beckon any nature lover. Kuttanad is located about 70 km from
Kochi, bordered by
Alappuzha in the North,
Kollam in the South and
Kottayam to the East.
Often called as 'the rice bowl of Kerala', Kuttanad is one of the few places in the world where farming is done 1.5 – 2 m below sea level. Pampa, Manimala and Achankovil rivers criss-cross the length and breadth of Kuttanad. Another important feature is the inland waterways which flow above land level. In terms of geographical features the place has great resemblance to Holland.
Kuttanad is characterized by warm and sultry climate during summer (March to June), moderately heavy monsoon twice a year (June-September and October-November), and comfortably warm climate during December-February. Coir products such as carpets, foot mats, matting and hammocks are the local produce available. It also has rich crops of banana, cassava and yam.
The annual boat race held here is a major draw. The racing season starts in July/August and ends in December
Cochin International Airport is about 85 km to the north of Alappuzha and Trivandrum International Airport is about 150 km to the south. The nearest railway station is at Alappuzha.
