Alleppey is the gateway to the backwaters. Most of the tourists who visit Kerala pass through Alleppey for the must-do backwater cruises but bypass the town. The Preserve Alleppey Society was formed with the intention of increasing footfalls into Alleppey thereby raising awareness of its heritage and unique character and helping toward its conservation. In 2018 the Society was awarded the Silver Medal for the Best Urban Neighbourhood Operator at the Indian Responsible Tourism Awards conducted by Outlook Responsible Tourism which is associated with the World Tourism Mart. It is the only Society of it's kind in Kerala when a group of women come together in an effort to create awareness of the importance of preserving heritage. The Society is in the process of publishing a book documenting the town and it's diverse communities and architecture titled The Alleppey Story.
Alleppey is a small market town but it was once the economic hub and bustling port of the erstwhile Travancore State. It has its own story to tell which can be experienced doing a tour curated by the Preserve Alleppey Society, The tour is partly by foot and partly by vehicle. It starts with a slide presentation highlighting the history and unique aspects of the town. This is followed by the tour with one of the members of the Society acting as a guide ending with lunch at a member's home.
Meeting with the ‘Preserve Alleppey Society’ to learn about their conservation effortsWalking tour of the old city and the old wholesale market of AlleppeyAuthentic Kerala meal featuring local tropical produce in a family home.
This guided tour by the Preserve Alleppey Society leads you on an exploration of Alleppey town. The tour begins with a presentation of the history and unique aspects of the town. It involves both a drive and walks through the Gujarathi quarter, canal banks and a traditional coir factory visit with a member of the Society. There is an opportunity to visit a family home and enjoy an authentic Kerala meal.