Call 01306 744 656 or
Call 01306 744 656 or
There’s so much more to this town than cruising in a barge…
When people think of Alleppey, the first thing that usually comes to mind is the backwaters. This excursion, however, shows you that there’s so much more to this town than cruising in a barge. I’ve been doing this tour for 22 years as a founder of the Preserve Alleppey Society, whose members are dedicated to preserving the culture and old buildings of this charming town.
Alleppey, built originally as a planned port town, was once a busy trade hub. Now it’s in retirement mode with long roads, canals and a mix of Hindus, Christians and Muslims living harmoniously together. You explore all of this on a two-hour walk with one of our guides who are fountains of knowledge when it comes to the area and know exactly how to translate its history.
We walk through the faded architecture of the Gujarati quarter reminiscent of the spice trade, whose communities arrived from the north of the country. Since you’re in the heart of the coir industry, you’ll also get to visit a coir factory, a real highlight. Here you’ll see first-hand how the locals use their hands and legs to weave the important fibre that’s turned into floor mats sold in the likes of Habitat and John Lewis. Then we normally invite you back home for a fish curry where we can reflect on the morning’s activities.
As you’ll see Alleppey has changed quite drastically, and I foresee the presence of high-rise buildings on the horizon. The whole town will likely change so it’s important to preserve as much as we can. Though more importantly it’s still here today offering a fleeting glimpse of its beautiful, original character.
Your journey will start with one of our UK team – someone like Malcolm, who's travelled extensively in India. They’ll shape your ideas into the trip of a lifetime. But they won't do it alone. They'll draw on the expertise of our contacts on the ground, connecting you to the people who'll make your holiday one you'll always remember.
Freephone an expert 01306 744 656
