|
|
The town was founded by Raja Keshawadasan, Divan of
Travanacore in 1762. 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 backwater country is also home to
diverse animal and bird life. By virtue of its proximity to the sea, the
town has always enjoyed a unique place in the maritime history of Kerala.
Today, Alappuzha (Alleppey) has grown in importance as a backwater tourist
centre, & also famous for its boat races, houseboat holidays, beaches,
marine products and coir industry.
The town was founded by Raja Keshawadasan, Divan of
Travanacore in 1762. 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 backwater country is also home to diverse animal and bird life. By
virtue of its proximity to the sea, the town has always enjoyed a unique
place in the maritime history of Kerala. Today, Alappuzha (Alleppey) has
grown in importance as a backwater tourist centre, & also famous for its
boat races, houseboat holidays, beaches, marine products and coir industry.
Alleppey is one of the most important tourist centers in the state. A large
network of canals provide Alleppey its lifeline. Alleppey was one of the
busiest centers of trade in the past with one of the best known ports along
the malabar coast. Even today it retains its charm as the centre for Coir
carpet industries and prawn farming. Alleppey the ideal 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 is an annual event.
Alleppey is also known for its spectacular snake - boat races held on the
second Saturday of August, every year. The Hindu temple, opposite the Indian
Coffee House, is worth a look although, as a non-Hindu, you won't be allowed
inside.Alleppey has a lengthy but filthy beach. It's a fine example of an
elaborately carved wooden South Indian temple somewhat reminiscent of those
in Nepal.
LOCATION - Alappuzha is located in the beautiful state of Kerala.
| |
| |
HOW TO REACH
By Air - Cochin is the nearest is airport i.e. 64 kms, its and international
airport so well connect to the other major cities like Delhi, Mumbai,
Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad etc. Another option is Trivandrum airport i.e.
159 km south of Alleppey.
By Rail - Alleppey Railway Station. Connected by rail with Cochin and
Trivandrum.
By Road - Well connected by road (NH-47). Trivandrum - Alleppey : 160 km,
Cochin - Alleppey : 70 km.
By Water - Connected with Cochin (5 1/2 hrs), Quilon (8 hrs) and Kottayam (2
1/2 hrs)
WHEN TO GO
Best Time to travel Alleppey is between march and August.
|
WHAT TO SEE
|
|
|
Kuttanad - Kuttanad, called the rice bowl of
Kerala because of her wealth of paddy crops, is at the very heart of the
backwaters.
|
|
|
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. The feast of St. Joseph is celebrated
on March 19th.
|
|
|
Alappuzha beach - This is one of the most popular
picnic spots in Alappuzha. 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.
|
|
|
Sea View Park - The park offers boating facilities
and a swimming pool. Boat rentals for 10 minutes: Roundboat (4 seater):
Rs. 10 Pedalboat (2 seater): Rs. 15 Pedalboat (4 seater): Rs. 25. Video
permit Rs. 15, Camera permit Rs. 100 respectively.
|
|
|
Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple (32 km south of
Alappuzha) - Situated near Harippad, this is a serpent shrine under the
patronage of a brahman family, headed by a priestess. The ancient shrine
is an internationally renowned pilgrim centre dedicated to the Serpent
God Nagaraja.
|
|
|
Arthunkal (22 km north of Alappuzha) - The St.
Sebastian's Church here is an important Christian pilgrim centre. Annual
festival: Arthunkal Perunnal - the feast of the patron saint (January)
|
|
|
Karumadikuttan (3km east of Ambalapuzha) - Many
fascinating legends are associated with this 11th century statue of Lord
Buddha.
|
 |
WHERE TO EAT
Kreamkorner is a nice place to have Indian and Chinese dishes. They
are located in the Mullackal street. Arcadia, a 4 star hotel
has just opened in 2006, but has priced meals at really low prices to
attract customers.
Vembanad Restaurant, AS Road, Alleppey.
Keraleeyam Heritage - If you love to eat authentic cuisine of Kerala,
you will get it nowhere except at Keraleeyam. The food comprises of rice,
spicy curries, puttu or steamed rice-cake with coconut gratings prepared in
bamboo shell etc. the food is served in traditional style on plantain leaves
to complete the effect. Besides the cuisine of Kerala, you have the choice
of selected of Continental and Chinese preparations.
TOP
|
|
