The rice bowl below the water line
Kuttanad, Kerala
Kuttanad is the farming country at the heart of the Alleppey backwaters — paddy fields reclaimed below the water line, ringed by bunds, threaded by canals where boats are the delivery vans. It is the scenery most people mean when they picture Kerala's backwaters.
What makes Kuttanad different
The region is famous for farming below sea level: fields sit behind dykes, and harvests happen with the pump sets running. Villages like Kainakary, Nedumudy and Champakulam sit inside this grid. From a boat deck the horizon is paddy green and coconut black; from a cycle on the bund roads it is paddies at shoulder height.
Things to do
- Cruise the village canals on an overnight houseboat — the classic Kuttanad route runs 1–2 nights.
- Canoe or kayak the narrow channels a houseboat can't enter.
- Toddy-shop lunch — karimeen, kappa and the local brew where it's served legally.
- Cycle the bund roads; a village tour covers coir, duck farms and paddy walks.
Houseboats for this stretch
Stays nearby
FAQ
Is Kuttanad really below sea level?
Yes — it's one of the few places in the world with farming below sea level, protected by dykes and pumped drainage.
Where is Kuttanad from Alleppey?
The Kuttanad canal network begins a short cruise southeast of Alappuzha town; boats reach it within their first hours.
Best way to see Kuttanad?
An overnight houseboat (for depth) plus a dawn canoe (for the narrow canals) — see houseboat routes.
Nearby destinations
Ready to book?
Planning this stretch of Kerala? Send your dates — we'll line up boats, stays and transfers.