Coir weaving in Alleppey showcases Kerala's traditional craft and eco friendly artistry

Coir weaving is a traditional and important industry in Alleppey, Kerala.
It involves turning coconut husks into strong fibre used for various products.
Most of the coir work is done by skilled women in small-scale units.
This eco-friendly craft supports local livelihoods and preserves
heritage.
Process starts by extracting fibre from coconut husks and spinning it into
yarn.
This yarn is then woven into mats, ropes, brushes, and carpets.
Every item is handmade with care and reflects the region’s craftsmanship.
These products are both durable and sustainable for everyday use.
Visitors can explore coir weaving units across Alleppey town.
You can watch artisans at work and learn about the traditional methods.
It’s a great opportunity to support local women and buy authentic coir goods.
This cultural experience adds meaning to your visit to Kerala.
Top Activities to Experience in Coir Weaving Units in Alappuzha
1. Coir Fiber Extraction Demonstration
Witness the age‑old process of extracting fiber from coconut husks. Artisans
will show you how
the husks are retted, beaten, and combed to separate the long, silky fibers—an
essential first
step in coir production.
2. Hand‐Spinning on the Charkha
Try your hand at spinning the extracted coir fiber into yarn using a traditional
wooden
charkha (spinning wheel). This hands‑on activity gives you a true feel for the
craft and the
skill involved.
3. Rope‐Making Workshop
Participate in a guided session to twist and braid coir yarn into sturdy ropes.
You’ll learn
the techniques for creating different rope gauges, used for everything from
fishing nets to
household mats.
4. Mat and Rug Weaving on the Loom
Observe (or even try!) weaving coir threads on a loom under the guidance of
master weavers.
See how intricate patterns and textures are created to make durable mats, rugs,
and door
mats.
5. Natural Dyeing and Finishing
Discover how artisans use natural dyes—such as turmeric, indigo, and madder
root—to add color
to coir products. Learn about eco‑friendly finishing techniques that enhance
durability and
bring out the natural beauty of the fibers.
6. Coir Product Showroom Tour
Stroll through a showroom displaying a wide range of coir items—from bath mats
and doormats to
eco‑friendly furniture cushions. Chat with the makers about design choices,
pricing, and
sustainable practices.
7. Q&A with Artisans & Souvenir Shopping
End your visit with an interactive Q&A session, where you can ask artisans
about their daily
routines, challenges, and the coir value chain. Pick up handmade coir souvenirs
to support the
local community.
How to Reach Coir Weaving Units, Alappuzha
Road: Buses and taxis connect Kochi (53 km) and Thiruvananthapuram (150 km) to Alappuzha. From the city center, take an auto or taxi to reach coir workshops in 5–10 min.
Rail: Alappuzha Railway Station (ALLP) is 4 km from major coir clusters. Autos and app‑based taxis are available at the station exit.
Air: Cochin International Airport (COK) is 83 km away. Hire a prepaid taxi or catch the direct KSRTC bus to Alappuzha, then local transport to the weaving units.
Water: Backwater cruises from Kumarakom dock at Alappuzha jetty. From there, coir units are a short walk or rickshaw ride.