Alappuzha (Alleppy)
Alappuzha or Alleppey in South Kerala, referred as Venice of the East has always had a unique place in the maritime history of Kerala. Being One of the must see destinations of Tourist Kerala ,Now it is well known for its silver beeches, back waters boat races, palm-fringed canals marine products and coir industry. The town was founded in 1762 by Raja Kesavadasan, the Diwan of Travancore. In the Architecture in Alappuzha, one can clearly view the influence of British, Dutch and Portuguese.
Alappuzha, being in Kerala ,the Gods Own Country, the tourist haven of Indian sub continent is one of the favorite tourist attractions for people all around the world. The Arabian sea on the west and the vast network of crisscrossing lakes, lagoons and fresh water rivers adds to the immense natural beauty of Alappuzha, It is an enthralling experience when we pass though the serene backwaters of Alappuzha with coconut trees lined up on the shore. We get to feel the uniqueness of India and Kerala Tourism here and thanks to the wonderful climate, relatively more pleasant in the winter season. It is also home to diverse animal and bird life. The best time to visit Alappuzha is between August–September and February–March.
Places of Attraction
Alappuzha beach:- The long stretch of Silver Beaches, takes one to a picturesque setting. Here is a pier, which extends into the sea which is of over 137 years old. Entertainment facilities at the Vijaya Beach Park like boating, a children's park with toy train and bicycles add to the attraction of the beach. There is also an old lighthouse nearby.
Kuttanadu:- Its lush green paddy fields, long palm trees and banana, elephant yam and cassava farms have a charm of its own and makes it a perfect holiday destination. Because of its wealth of rice crops Kuttanadu is known as the rice bowl of Kerala. It is the very heart of the backwater tourism of Kerala. House boats are available on hire which takes visitors on the waterways.
Pathiramanal:- Pathiramanal literally means "sands of midnight". It is an enchanting little island on the backwater. Hundreds of rare migratory birds from different part of the world are haunted by this place and we can be in the midst of chirping birds of all colors here. The island, which is accessible only by boat lies between Thaneermukkam and Kumarakam. Motor boat and speed boat facilities are available to reach here.
Churches:- The St. Mary's Church, Champakkulam is believed to be one of the seven churches established by St. Thomas. The days of importance here are 3rd Sunday of October (annual feast) and March 19th (feast of St. Joseph) every year. The St. Sebastian's Church Arthungal, built by Portuguese missionaries is an important Christian pilgrim center.
Temples:- There are a number of fascinating temples in and around Alappuzha. The Mullakkal Temple, , the Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple, Chettikulangara Bhagavathy Temple, Harippadu Subhramanya Swami Temple and Sree Krishna Swami Temple Ambalappuzha are some among them.
Krishnapuram Palace:- The Krishnapuram Palace built in the 18th century is in a small distance from Alappuzha. It is known for its typical Kerela architecture and the famous mural painting called Gajendra Moksham.
Boat Races:- The Snake Boat races held in every year during the month of August-September are the major attraction of Alappuzha and they draw tourists from all over the world to here. Nehru Trophy Boat Race held at Punnamada Kayal is the most important one. The Payippad near Haripad, the Thiruvandoor, Neerettupuram, Karuvatta and Thaikkoottam boat races are held at different parts of the district.
How To Reach
By air:- Kochi international airport Nedumbassery - 64 km, Thiruvananthpuram air port(150 km)
By rail:- Alappuzha Railway Station is connected to major cities.
By road:- NH 47 passes through Alappuzha.
By water:- Alappuzha is connected by boat service through the backwaters to the major coastal towns of kerela viz.Kollam, Changanassery, Kottayam, Kochi, Kumarakom, Kovalam and Chengannur
Kerala is quite famous for its Ayurvedic and natural cure treatments . Those of you visit Kerala need to visit the well known Ayurvedic research centres functioning as trust or under the Govt. and not the mushrooming private panchakarma clinic made for extracting money with no traditional knowledge or background.If you like to know more about Ayurveda visit here. You may also know more about Rudraksha herb( nut) and its marvelloous healing powers here.
