Alleppey is the most densely populated district in Kerala . the municipal head quarters is also known as Alleppey itself. Alleppey district was formed back in 1957 august 27 by combining parts of old Kollom district and Kottyam district , but the origin of Alleppey city is way back in 1762 itself.
The town was founded by Raja Kesavadas who is the Divan of Karthika thirunal Rama varma . During that time it was the only planned city in Travancore with two canals and roads that stretch across the banks of the canals .
This canals were designed to facilitate the transportation of goods from different parts of the town and to promote business . At the early times of the town ( we an say the cliche ,good old days ) merchants from all part of india was invited to the town and the royal government offered all facilities to this businessmen by offering business facilitation centers.
well…..almost just like a special economic zone 
Back in 1862 a 302 meter long sea bridge and light house which can spread its light up to 20 Km was commissioned . canals and roads are created to facilitate inland transportation and to bring goods from the shipyard to the industrial areas . at this prosper years of Alleppey , the town was renowned as the venice of the east . Most of the business was centered around spices and coir at that time. The first postal office in Travancore is established in Alleppey due to its business importance .
The development of Cochin as a natural harbor in 1928 diminished the importance of alleppey town as a business hub. After the formation of kerla state after independence of india incresed the popularity of cochin town as a harbor . Because the industries in alleppy is centered around allppey port , it was diminished as the Cochin port became a popular destination for ships.
Now the town is mostly known as a tourist destination rather than a business hub. Thanks to the pristine backwaters and natural beauty and a nice beach , this calm town converted itself in to a tourist attraction point . The house boats and the boat races in backwaters also became one of the main tourist attraction .
