Alappuzha, also
known as Alleppey, is a town in Alappuzha District of
Kerala state of southern India. With the Arabian Sea
on the west and a vast network of lakes, lagoons and
fresh water rivers crisscrossing it, Alappuzha is a
district of immense natural beauty. Referred to as the
Venice of the East by travellers from across the world,
this place is also home to diverse animal and bird life.
Because of its proximity to the sea, the town has always
enjoyed a unique place in the maritime history of Kerala.
Founded by Raja Keshawadasan, Divan of Travanacore in
1762, Alappuzha (Alleppey) today, has grown in importance
as a backwater tourist center, & also famous for
its boat races, houseboat holidays, beaches, marine
products and coir industry.
Places to See
Kuttanad:
It's
called the rice bowl of Kerala because of her wealth
of paddy crops, is at the very heart of the backwaters.
The scenic countryside of Kuttanad with its shimmering
waterways also has a rich crop of Banana, Cassava and
Yam. This is perhaps the only region in the world where
farming is done 1.5 to 2 mtr below sea level. Inland
waterways which flow above land lever are an amazing
feature of this region.
Alappuzha (Alleppey) beach:
This is one of the most popular picnic spots in Alappuzha
(Alleppey). The pier, which extends into the sea here,
is over 137 years old. Entertainment facilities at the
Vijaya beach park add to the attractions of the beach.
There is also an old lighthouse, which is greatly fascinating
to visitors.
Pathiramanal:
According the mythology a Young Brahmin dived into the
Vembanad lake to perform his evening ablutions and the
water made way for land to rise from below, thus creating
the enchanting Island pf Pathiramanal (sands of midnight).
This little island on the backwaters is a favourite
haunt of hundreds of rare migratory birds from different
parts of the world. This island lies between Thaneermukkom
and Kumarakom, and is accessible only by boat.
Champakulam church:
One of the oldest churches in Kerala, the St. Mary's
Church is believed to be one of the seven established
by St. Thomas. The annual feast at this church falls
on the 3rd Sunday of October every year.
Ambalappuzha Sree Krishna Temple
(15 km south of Alappuzha):
Built in the typical Kerala architectural style, this
temple is famous all over India for the Palpayasam,
the daily offering of deliciously sweet milk porridge.
It is also in this temple that Pallipana is performed
by Velans (sorcerers) once every twelve years.
When to
Go
The
best time to visit Kerala is during August to March.
Festivals/Events
Snake
boat races are the most significant traditional event
in Alappuzha. These spectacular regattas are usually
held between August and October, and involve long thin
boats powered by up to 120 oarsmen. The most famous
snake boat race is the Nehru Trophy Boat Race.
How to Reach
By Air:
Nearest International Airports : Kochi (Nedumbassery -
85 km), Thiruvananthapuram (150 kms).
By
Rail:
Well connected to Major Cities.
By Road:
An excellent road network links the district to all major
towns and cities in India.
By Water:
Linked by boat service through the backwaters to Kollam
(8 Hrs), Changanacherry (3 hrs), Kumarakom (3 hr), Cochin
(4 hrs), Kumarakom (2 hrs), Chengannor, etc.
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