Alappuzha- A Introduction
Alappuzha- One of the exotic backwater locales of India's southern state of Kerala, the
town of Alappuzha, or Alleppey as it was called, is famous for its annual
boat race that draws thousands of tourists from all over the country and
world. Alappuzha is also the headquarters of Kerala's coir industry and an
important place for cashew nut processing. The town is bound by Kochi and
Kanayannur in north; Vaikom, Kottayam, Changanassery Thiruvalla,
Kozhencherry and Adoor taluks in east; Kannathur and Karunagappallyin in
south and Lakshadweep islands in its west. The Portuguese were the
predominant rulers of this place before the Dutch took over. It was only
during the reign of Maharaja Marthandavarma that the town became a busy commercial place. The city has a humid climate. The winters
are relatively more pleasant and ideal time to visit this place.
Places
of Interest Alappuzha Beach A
popular picnic spot, this beach is located near to the town. The pier, which extends into the sea here, is over 137 years old. One
of the great fascinations for the visitors here is the nearby lighthouse and
entertainment facility at the Vijaya Beach Park. The park offers boating
facilities and a children's park with toy train and bicycles.
Pathiramanal For bird lovers, this small island on the backwaters of
Alappuzha is a must visit. About a 1½-hour drive by motorboat from
Alappuzha, Pathiramanal is a haven for hundreds of rare birds migrating from
different parts of the world. Pathiramanal is accessible only by boat as it
is surrounded by the Vembanad Lake, stretching from Alappuzha to Kochi and
the Kayamkulam Lake.
Kuttanad One
of the prominent features of this city is the region called Kuttanad, the
rice bowl of Kerala. Sandwiched between the sea and the hills, Kuttanad
stretches for about 75 km It is believed to be the only place in the world
where farming is done below sea level.
Sea View
Park For those who love enjoying themselves by water,
the Sea View Park is a place to visit. The park has a
swimming pool and offers boating facilities.
Excursion:- Places nearby Ambalapuzha
Krishna Temple A visit to this temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna,
will enable you to witness the typical temple architecture of Kerala. You
can also get the glimpses of the town culture and taste payasam, if you
happen to visit this place during the festival time of March.
Arthunkal
Twenty-two kilometres north near Sherthallai lies a
pilgrim centre, Arthunkal. The town is known for the St. Andrews Church
established by Portuguese missionaries. Every January the feast of St.
Sebastian is held here.
Chavara Bhavan About
6 km and accessible only by boat, Chavara Bhavan is the
ancestral home of Kuriakose Elias Chavara. Today it is a holy shrine and
spiritual resort where thousands of devotees gather for prayers. A
250-year-old historically important beacon of light is preserved here in its
original form.
Edatgya Church About 24 km
to Thiruvalla Road stands the Edatgya Church.
Dedicated to St. George, the church was established in 1810. Pilgrims from
all parts of South India visit this church during the annual festival held
in the first week of May.
Krishnapuram Palace
Forty-seven
kilometres lies Krishnapuram Palace, a rare specimen of the
Kerala style of architecture. The palace had been the residence of the
rulers of Kayamkulam kingdom. It was renovated some time in the 18th century
and is complete with gabled roofs, narrow corridors and dormer windows. The
palace has been declared a protected monument by the department of
archaeology. One of the most fascinating exhibits here is the 49 sq. meter
Gajendra Moksham, the largest single band of mural painting discovered in
Kerala. The other attractions include a beautifully landscaped garden in the
palace compound and a newly erected Buddha mandapam, where a statue of the
Buddha is housed.