Kuttanad is an area in Kerala that includes the districts of Kottayam and Alappuzha. It is known as the ‘Rice Bowl of Kerala,’ and the name comes from the paddy crops that grow there. This picturesque town is nestled between a mountain range and the deep blue sea. It is a large expanse of reclaimed land located in the district’s inner reaches, separated by dikes from water that is higher than it appears. Temples, churches, natural splendours, green paddy fields, canals, rivers, rivulets, lakes, and backwaters make it an exotic and hot picnic spot. Kuttanad is one of Kerala’s most beautiful towns.
Vembanad Lake
Vembanad Lake is one of Kerala’s largest lakes, stretching over multiple Kuttanad districts. Depending on the locality, this lake is known by a variety of names. The most popular lakes in Kuttanad and Kochi are Punnamada Lake and Kochi Lake. Every year in the Kuttanad lake region, the Nehru Boat Race is the most famous race, especially around the traditional Kerala festival of Onam. Several Kettuvallam or snake boats compete in this event, crisscrossing the lake and providing tourists with an incredible spectacle.
Backwaters
Tourists from all across the country visit the freshwater lakes and backwaters, which are the most popular destinations. Hundreds of houseboats may be seen gliding down meandering rivers, and the peaceful waters of the lakes are complemented by the life of the people who live along the shore, which is unlike any other state in the country.
Houseboat Cruise, Kuttanad
The interior of the yacht is just as appealing as the outside. To stand out, the chefs wear a variety of feathers on their heads, and the cuisine they serve is just fantastic, with a variety of fish meals. The drink they serve is called toddy, and it goes well with the wonderful Karimeen or cooked curry or fries, a fish with pearl-like patches on its body. Another popular food in the area is tapioca. Toddy is a prestigious drink known as the State Drink. Chammanthi is a seasoning made from grated coconut, chilli, and salt that is used to enhance the flavour of a variety of foods.
Paddy Fields in Kuttanad
Kuttanad’s lovely paddy fields are another key draw. Paddy agriculture is particularly popular in Kuttanad, and paddy fields cover a large portion of the state. The vast expanse of paddy fields gives us an awe-inspiring feeling. The early stage of paddy cultivation has a greenish colour and is a wonderful sight. The tint of the paddies gradually turns golden as they grow. If you have the opportunity to view this, it will be the most magnificent sight you have ever seen.
Chavara Bhawan
It is located approximately fifty six kilometres from Kuttanad. This is both a sacred site and a resort. It houses an original light beacon that has been kept intact for over 250 years. As a holy shrine, a large number of devotees flock here to pray. The blessed Kuriakose Elias Chavara was born only in this location.
So, the next time you’re in Kuttanad, consider visiting one of the locations listed above for a memorable trip.
Also read: Top 20 Tourist Places to visit in Kerala
