Kuttanad – The Rice Bowl of Kerala
Kuttanad is a region located in the Alappuzha district of Kerala, India. Known as the “Rice Bowl of Kerala,” Kuttanad is a unique and picturesque area characterized by its extensive network of canals, backwaters, paddy fields, and houseboats. Here are some key features and attractions of Kuttanad:
- Backwaters: Kuttanad is famous for its backwaters, which consist of a network of interconnected canals, lakes, and lagoons. The backwaters offer a serene and scenic experience, with lush greenery, coconut palms, and traditional villages dotting the landscape. Houseboat cruises are a popular way to explore and enjoy the beauty of the backwaters.
- Paddy Fields: Kuttanad is renowned for its vast expanse of paddy fields, which are situated below sea level. The region’s unique farming method, known as “pokkali cultivation,” involves cultivating salt-resistant rice varieties in fields that are partially submerged in water. The sight of endless green paddy fields stretching to the horizon is truly captivating.
- Chavara Bhavan: Chavara Bhavan, located in Kainakary village of Kuttanad, is a pilgrimage site dedicated to Saint Kuriakose Elias Chavara. The Bhavan houses a church, a museum showcasing the life and works of the saint, and a chapel where his mortal remains are preserved.
- Nehru Trophy Boat Race: Kuttanad is famous for hosting the Nehru Trophy Boat Race, one of the most prestigious snake boat races in Kerala. Held annually on the Punnamada Lake in Alappuzha, this grand event attracts a large number of spectators who gather to witness the thrilling race.
- Traditional Lifestyle and Culture: Kuttanad offers a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle and culture of the people living in the region. You can observe the locals engaged in fishing, coir-making, and farming activities. The area is also known for its traditional Kerala cuisine, which includes delicious seafood and dishes made with locally grown rice.
Kuttanad is a unique and enchanting destination, offering visitors a chance to experience the beauty of Kerala’s backwaters, witness the traditional agrarian practices, and immerse themselves in the local culture and traditions.
Kuttanad known as the rice bowl of Kerala is a beautiful place located at the heart of stunning backwaters in Kerala. The picturesque countryside of Kuttanad is famous for its vast network of waterways, rich vegetation, and outstanding natural beauty. Although this tourist destination got its popularity due to its mind-blowing natural beauty, it is the real rice bowl of the state. Even if there are other cultivations in Kuttanad, the immense wealth of paddy fields is its main attraction.
Kuttanad is a must-visit tourist destination in Kerala because of its outstanding natural beauty. Travelers from different parts of the world visit this awe-inspiring holiday hideaway to explore its scenic nature. It must be a breathtaking experience for them to enjoy the beauty of rich paddy fields interconnected with the scenic backwaters of the region. In fact, it can be an unforgettable experience for many travelers as they cannot see such outstanding vistas anywhere else in the world.
The best feature of Kuttanad is that it is a region where farming is done below sea level. Another noted feature of this backwater paradise is that four popular rivers in Kerala flow into the region. The presence of the Pampa, Manimala, Achankovil, and Meenachil rivers make it a suitable land for cultivation. People love to visit this region during harvest season as they will get the opportunity to watch farmers get engaged in different farming activities. You will never forget the sights where women carry their sickle and lunch boxes towards the paddy fields to do different farming jobs.
Some of the paddy fields in Kuttanad are spotted with islets of coconut trees. If you choose the Alappuzha-Changanasserry route, you will be able to see the local life and the stunning nature of this tourist destination close. This is the best way to explore Kuttanad as the road passes through the heart of this vacation destination. If you choose this route, you can take deviations from Alappuzha or Changanassery to reach the typical farming villages in Kuttanad.
Kuttanad is a favorite place for many nature lovers because of its unique ecosystem. The region is famous for rich avian species, eye-catching flowering plants, and fine aquatic species. Visiting Kuttanad also provides you the chance to taste mouthwatering fish and seafood dishes prepared in traditional methods. The nearest railway station is Alappuzha while Cochin International Airport is approximately 85 km away from this tourist destination. Plan a trip to Kuttanad to get the rare travel experience of your life.