Which Indian City is Known As the Venice of the East?

India has many cities that are as diverse as its cultures. The country has everything ranging from spice-scented market towns to serene waterways that give a tough competition to some of the most beautiful places around the world. 

Among these many amazing places in India, there is a city which is very well known for its lagoons, canals, backwaters and houseboat rides. That is why this city was given the title of “Venice of the East”. This nickname highlights the city’s extraordinary connection with water which is very much similar to Venice in Italy. Here is everything that you need to know about India's Venice of the East. 

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Which City in India is Known As the Venice of the East?

The Indian city which is popularly known as the “Venice of the East” is Alappuzha which was also historically known as Alleppey. 

The Alappuzha District’s official website mentions: “The name of the district Alleppey, the anglicized form was changed as ‘Alappuzha’ as per  GO(P) No.133/90/RD dated 7.2.90.”

It is located in the Indian state of Kerala, along the Arabian Sea coast. The nickname comes from the early first decade of the 20th century. The then Viceroy of the Indian Empire which was Lord Curzon, visited the state of Alleppey and he was very fascinated by the natural beauty and as a result he mentioned it as the “Venice of the East”. 

The  Alappuzha District’s official website mentions: “Alappuzha is a Land Mark between the broad Arabian sea and a network of rivers flowing into it.In the early first decade of the 20th Century the then Viceroy of the Indian Empire, Lord Curzon made a visit in the State to Alleppey, now Alappuzha. Fascinated by the Scenic beauty of the place, in joy and amazement, he said, “Here nature has spent up on the land her richest bounties”. In his exhilaration, it is said, he exclaimed, “Alleppey, the Venice of the East”. Thus the sobriquet found its place in the world Tourism Map.”

Now Alappuzha is one of the major tourist destinations. It draws travel enthusiasts from all across the world.

Facts About Alappuzha

Here are some important and amazing facts about Alappuzha: 

• The total size of Alappuzha is just 1,415 sq kms according to the Alappuzha District website. 

• Even after being a very small city, it has a population of 2,127,789 people. 

• According to Kerala State Land use Board, Alappuzha came into existence on 17th August 1957.

• Apart from serenity, the backwaters of Alappuzha also showcases snake boat races each year also known as the Vallomkali. This race emerged centuries ago as a means to solve disputes where local rulers competed fiercely with their snake boats. 

• The area around Alappuzha which is Kuttanad is quite famous as well. It is known as the "rice bowl" of Kerala as it has many paddy fields and canals.

In conclusion, Alappuzha which is nestled in the lush state of Kerala is a very cherished city that holds the title of “Venice of the East.” Its beautiful network of backwaters, lakes, canals, and traditional houseboat routes sets it apart from other cities. 

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