Alleppey is one of the most important tourist centers in Kerala and is rightly called, "Venice of the East". The large networks of canals provide Alleppey its lifeline. It is the headquarters for backwater tourism as well as for visits to the lovely church filled town of Kottayam, and the town of Aranmula, famous for its historic Aranmula Snake Boat Race, which are held on the second Saturday of August, every year. It is excitement all around as snake - boats, each manned by over a hundred oarsmen, cut through the waters like wind. The event is a tremendous success with tourists and the local people alike.