Rice bowl of Kerala
Kuttanad, the chief rice granary of Kerala is a scenic place with abundant paddy fields and tall coconut palms located in the Alappuzha district. Popularly known as the rice bowl of Kerala, this destination fascinates travelers with its vast stretches of paddy fields. These verdant paddy fields that interlaced with majestic backwaters offer mind-blowing vistas to travelers. Kuttanad is noted for its farming below the sea level. Another exciting feature of this tourist spot is that four main rivers, Pampa, Manimala, Achankovil and Meenachil flow through this region. Enjoy some memorable holidays in Alappuzha and explore the awe-inspiring destination of Kuttanad through Kochi Taxi. Visit our website www.kochitaxi.in today to plan your holidays in Kerala.
The Major Rice Granary
Beautiful expanse of paddy cultivation is the main feature of Kuttanad. In fact, this region is the chief source of the popular ‘boiled rice’ of Kerala. Kuttanad is also a great tourist destination in the state because of its geographical peculiarities. This large area of partly reclaimed land is covered with emerald green paddy fields. Located under the Alappuzha district, this backwater destination is honeycombed by plenty of lakes, rivers, canals and rivulets. It is the only place in the country where the cultivation of rice takes places below sea level. A tour to this marvellous destination unfolds the bounty of Kerala backwaters and its lush beauty before you. With nearly 500 sq. kilometers of area below sea level, Kuttanad is among the lowest regions in India. The elevation of this region ranges from 0.6 m to 2.2 m below sea level.
Fascinating Views
If you travel through the Alappuzha – Changanassery Road, you will be fascinated by the scenic views of this region. A trip through this route also gives you glimpses of the traditional country lifestyle. In fact, it shall be a life changing experience for each visitor to Kuttanad especially if you visit this region during harvest season. Most of the people in this area are farmers and visitors can watch them working in the fields. It is common to see women carrying their sickles to the fields in the early hours of the day while men are busy for sowing seeds and clearing weeds. You can also see so many parrots hovering around the rice stalks in the fields. Another common sight is legions of darter birds flying around the fields.
A Land Of Tall Coconut Trees
Like its extensive paddy fields, Kuttanad is also famous for tall coconut trees. It is common to see numerous tall coconut trees that sway with the breeze if you travel through the canals in a boat. You will be delighted to watch ducks quacking around when children dive into the water in order to hunt for shells. Do not forget to visit the shacks at this region to taste some of the tastiest dishes in the country. You can also ask for toddy, a native alcoholic beverage. Hiring a houseboat is the best way to explore Kuttanad. You will never forget the views, breeze and the lifestyle of locals once you enjoy cruise in a traditional houseboat.
Best Time To Visit
Kuttanad is a hot and humid region especially in the summer months. Monsoon months are also difficult to travel and explore this area. So, you can choose any time between October and March to visit Kuttanad and enjoy houseboat cruising.
How to reach
Alappuzha and Changanasserry are the nearest railway stations to reach Kuttanad. The nearest Cochin International Airport is approximately 85 kilometers away from this backwater destination. Frequent boat services are also there covering Kuttanad in the Alappuzha – Edathua – Ambalappuzha route.