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Brief

Kuttanad is among the famous regions in the Alappuzha, Pathanamthitta and Kottayam Districts, located in Ketala, India. The town is famous for its beautiful and vast paddy fields and various geographical peculiarities. It is also famous for being the region with the lowest altitude in India. Also, it stands out as among only a few places in the world where farming is done below sea level. It is also a historically important place in South India.

It should be noted that there is no recorded history regarding the origin of the land. However, there are local stories with reference to Kuttanad in the Mahabharata of ancient India. The five Pandava princes believed to have travelled through this land during their exile. During those times, Kuttanad formed part of a dense forest and was later destroyed by a forest fire which finds mention in the epic. Therefore, the place was called 'Chutta'(burnt) 'nad'(place). Also, one can still catch a glimpse of 'kari' or coal if they dig deep into the Kuttanad soil. Legend has it that the place was under the sea and is a reason why the land is dotted with seashells.

The mostly widely spoken language is Malayalam, although many speak in Tamil and Konkani.

Travel Tips

The best time to visit Kuttanad is during the winter season from around October to March. The weather during winter is pleasant and one can avoid the monsoons too.

For hotel reservations, daily backwater cruises, houseboat hite and car rental.

When to visit

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
July
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Oct
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Dec

Hot

38° Max
32° Min

32.3 mm
Light cottons

Things to do

Kuttanad is well-known for its avian population and tourists can catch a glimpse of parrots hovering around paddy fields. One may also come across a black blanket and other flock of birds.

As one explores the many villages in the area, do not forget to take a walk along the canals that crisscross Kuttanad. These canals are usually buzzing with activity with vendors selling vegetables, groceries and fish on boats. One will also come across big country boats known as Kettu Vallams on which coconut husks and rice grains are transported to the local markets.

The best way of exploring Kuttanad is by boat. Tourists can hire motorboats and houseboats from the boat jetty which is run by the government. Some of the places that deserve a visit near Kuttanad area include Nedumudy, Kaavalam and Champakkulam, among others.

Alappuzha was once the busiest coast south of Mumbai, and its canals and backwaters helped in the passage of cargo - be it tea, rubber or other produce from the hills - to the sea.

Getting Around

The best way to travel and see the place is by auto rickshaw or taxi. However, hiring a motorboat or houseboat to travel down the backwaters is a great option.

Places to Stay

On the backwaters the huge lake palace resort has obviously been made at enormous expense and is perfect for large groups. It has opulent water-villas on its own private lake.

There are many government agencies which you can opt for.

How to Reach

Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport and is situated around 85 Km from Kuttanad.
Alappuzha railway station is the closest to the village town
One can reach the village town via Alappuzha as it is well-connected by roads through the state and National highways.

Surrounding Attractions

Some of the nearby attractions to Kuttanad are:

Kumarakom bird sanctuary, Aruvikkuzhi waterfall, Alappuzha town (famous for its food and shopping), Alappuzha beach, Marari beach, Pathiramanal Island, Krishnapuram Palace, Karumadikuttan, Ambalapuzha temple, Arthunkal, Mullackal Temple, Chavara Bhavan and Edatuva Church.

A backwater cruise on the Punnamada Kayal tkes you along canals past scenic islands, offering sublime views of coconut and paddy fields, Chineses fishing nets and toddy tapper at work.

Emergency No.

Hospital: Government Medical College
Telephone: +91-477-2282015

Police Station: Kayamkulam, Alappuzha
Telephone: +91-479-2445929