With the Arabian Sea in the west and a vast network of lakes, lagoons and fresh water rivers crisscrossing it, Alappuzha is a district of immense natural beauty. Referred to as the Venice of the East by travelers from across the world, this backwater country is also home to diverse animal and bird life. By virtue of its proximity to the sea, the town of Alappuzha has always enjoyed a unique place in the maritime history of Kerala. Today Alappuzha is an important backwater destination attracting travelers from around the world, every year. Alappuzha is also famous for its boat races, beaches, marine products and coir industry. A singularity of this land is the region called Kuttanad – a land of lush paddy fields referred to as the Rice Bowl of Kerala and one of the few places in the world where farming is done below sea level.