ALAPPUZHA WALK - The Venice of the East

The Venice of the East

By Akhil Kalidas, Psychologist, art therapist and storyteller &

Alappey roots, an initiative of Kudumbhashree

Contribution: 550/-

Duration: 5.5 hrs

🕢 7:00 – 9:30 AM Heritage Walk

🚤 10:00 AM Boat to Kainakary

🏡 10:30 – 11:30 AM Village experience + Breakfast

🚤 11:45 AM Return boat to Alappuzha

Taking one into the roots of “The Venice of the East,” this heritage trail begins with a walk along the bygone streets of Alappuzha, led by Psychologist, art therapist and storyteller Akhil Kalidas, emphasises the trade settlements that shaped Alappuzha into the cultural hub it is today.

This will be followed by a boat ride from Alappuzha to Kainakary, breakfast and a Kuttanad experience, in collaboration with Alleppey Roots, a Kudumbashree initiative .

1) HERITAGE WALK:

Starting point - Alappuzha Lighthouse, known for its clear coastal views, and continues through the Gujarati–Jain settlements, including the Gujarati–Jain Temple and the Gujarati School. From there, it moves to Mount Carmel Cathedral and CSI Christ Church, two landmarks reflecting the town’s layered religious history.

2) BOAT FROM ALAPPUZHA TO KAINAKARY

The experience extends beyond the town as participants board a Government Water Transport boat for a scenic journey through the backwaters from Alappuzha to Kainakary.

**Boat ride fare not included in Heritage trail contribution

3) KAINAKARY, The Kuttanad way of life

Here, they visit a village home where a homely Kuttanad breakfast awaits, followed by a ‘bund walk’ , a walk amidst the below sea-level paddy fields of the region. We also explore the scope for an introduction to a traditional coir-making process in the village.

4) BOAT FROM KAINAKARY TO ALAPPUZHA

The program concludes with the return boat from Kainakary.

**Boat ride fare not included in Heritage trail contribution

Contribution Inclusive of: Morning snacks,Tea & Souvenirs

Mode of Travel: Walking

The walk may take a little longer based on the group's curiosity and enthusiasm.
Tickets to the musuems is not included in the walk.

Read Instructions And Terms Below

What to Keep in Mind on Our Walks

Before You Come

• Wear light and comfortable clothing suitable for Kerala’s humid weather.

• Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended.

• Carrying an umbrella/cap is advisable. 

• Kindly carry your own waterbottle

• we encourage reusable bottles

• Any other physical constraints you might have, kindly let us know in advance

• Breakfast is not included

During the Walk

• Feel free to observe, ask questions, and engage - this walk is designed to be interactive and conversation-based.

• Our storyteller will share historical facts, stories, community narratives, and cultural insights.

• At certain points, we may pause to listen, take photographs, note observations, or engage with locals when appropriate.

• If you notice anything interesting or meaningful, feel free to point it out—heritage walks grow richer through shared perspectives.

• Please stay with the group and inform us if you need to step aside or pause for any reason.

Terms & Conditions

General 

• Please arrive at least 10 minutes before the start time.

• The walk may include uneven paths, narrow streets, and crowded spaces—participants are requested to be cautious and follow the lead of the guide.

• Photography is welcome. However, please be respectful while clicking pictures of people and private spaces.

• Children below 14 must be accompanied by an adult.

• In case of unexpected weather or unavoidable circumstances, the walk may be rescheduled.

Refund & Transfer Policy

• The registration fee is non-refundable.

• However, your registration can be transferred to another person or to one of our upcoming walks from this series, if you inform us at least 24 hours in advance (or specify a timeline, e.g., 48 hours / 72 hours depending on your walk schedule).

• If you are unable to attend and do not nominate someone to attend in your place within the given time frame, the fee will be forfeited.

• In case the organisers need to reschedule the walk due to unavoidable situations (weather, safety concerns, or operational reasons),

  • Your registration will automatically be shifted to the new date, OR

  • You may transfer your pass to another person or request a refund of the ticket price (Payment Gateway charge not included).

• In the rare case that the walk is cancelled entirely by the organisers, the ticket amount will be refunded (650/-).

• No partial refunds will be issued for late arrival, early exit, or missed segments of the walk.

 Safety & Responsibility

• Participants are responsible for their personal belongings. We are not liable for loss or damage.

• Please follow instructions given by the walk lead for your safety and group coordination.

• While we ensure a safe and comfortable experience, participants are responsible for their own wellbeing during the walk. The organisers are not responsible for any injuries, accidents, or health issues during the walk. Participants are requested to remain alert, follow the instructions of the walk lead, and exercise caution.

Weather & Environmental Notes

• Walks will continue in light rain.

• In case of heavy rain or emergencies, we will reschedule and inform participants.

Respect & Behaviour

• This is a community-centred experience.

• Participants must be considerate of local residents, cultural practices, and public spaces.

• Any form of harassment, misconduct, or disrespectful behaviour may lead to removal from the walk.

Photo & Media Policy

• Photos and videos will be taken during the walk for documentation and educational/social media purposes.

• If you prefer not to be photographed, please inform the team beforehand.

• We would appreciate a sharing of photos/videos taken within the community for archival purposes.

Consent for Stories & Interaction

• Some walks may involve conversations with community members. Please engage respectfully and avoid intrusive questions or recording without permission.

Sustainability Reminder

• Carry reusable bottles; avoid plastics and littering.

• We aim to keep the walk environmentally friendly—please help us uphold this.

*By registering, you agree to the above terms and conditions and consent to participate responsibly.