Alappuzha is a veritable maze of bridges and canals, which earns it the appellation as the "Venice of the East". Alappuzha district leads the other districts of Kerala in terms of population and literacy rate. Approximately about 95% of the total population is literate. The entire district occupies the low land and midland areas. It is the only district in Kerala having no area under the high lands. Kuttanad, certified as the ‘rice bowl of Kerala’, produces almost 10% of the total rice production of the state. Alappuzha is the nerve center for the coir industry.Almost 80 per cent of the coir factories in the State are in this district.

The sparkling Alappuzha, famous for its boat races and beaches, was founded by Raja keshawadasan, Divan of Travenacore in 1762. The scenic waterways of Alappuzha, lined up with tropical greenery and palm-fringed beaches presents nature in her perfect form. By virtue of its proximity to the sea, Alappuzha is home to diverse animal and bird life.
When you are in Alleppey, you must visit the ever-inviting Ambalapuzha – situated at a distance of 14 kms from the main city. The Sri Krishna temple here is built in classic Keralite style. The ‘prasad’ made in milk porridge, served in this temple is mouth-watering. Karumadikkuttan lies 3 km east of Ambalapuzha. The Karumadikkuttan statue, erected in the 10th century is made of black granite figure of Buddha.