2 Best Sights in Alleppey, Kerala

On the second Saturday in August throngs of supporters line the shore to watch the annual Nehru Trophy Boat Race, which starts with a water procession and concludes dramatically as the boats (propelled by as many as 100 rowers) vie for the trophy. The best way to see the race is from a houseboat that you have booked far in advance. Several other snake-boat races take place in the area from mid-July to mid-September.

At Arthunkal, 20 km (12 miles) north of Alleppey on the way from Kochi, stands the ancient St. Andrew's Basilica. The church makes for an interesting break. Made out of wood and coconut fronds, it was built in 1581 by Portuguese missionaries, in honor of Jesus's disciple Andrew. A few years later the church was rebuilt in stone. When it was erected, St. Andrew's Basilica was considered holy by Hindus as well the missionaries; even the area's Hindu king visited the shrine. It's one of the oldest and more impressive churches in a state where you can spot a startling-looking church every few miles.