Allapuzha, Kerala

Alappuzha (also known as Alleppey) is fascinating town sandwiched between Arabian sea and a network of rivers flowing into it creating the world famous Kerala ‘backwaters’. The network of inland waterways is so intricate that some British viceroy called it the “Venice of the East”.

Alapuzha is incredibly scenic and pace of life is slow. Backwater tourism and houseboats are huge draws with Indian and global tourists here.

We stayed in a small homestay called Keraleeyam which is an old traditional Kerala home with a breathtakingly beautiful backwater frontage. Most of the time was spent in ayurvedic massages or in the waterways with occasional visits to temples and markets.

Leica M8 plus 35mm Summicron. Jan 2009.