Alappuzha, the Venice of the East, is a district beautifully placed between the Arabian Sea
and the Vembanad Kayal. The
midland is bed of the famous river Pamba and also enjoys a special place among the different tourist spots of
Kerala as it hosts not one but two celebrated boat races- 'Moolam Vallamkali' at Champakkulam and 'Nehru
Trophy Vallam Kali' at Punnamadakayal. The place is also historically important as it has been the capital
of the ancient Chempakassery kingdom. What makes the place even more attractive is that it is the connection
link of Kottayam- Kochi- Kollam backwaters. Alappuzha that boasts of being home to the oldest Sri Krishna
temple.The famous St. George Church has been erected and is one of the best known Christian
pilgrim centers of India. There is even a famous statue of Buddha (assembled in the 11th century). The
many temples and churches that flourish side by side depict the city as a perfect instance of religious harmony!
::::::::::: Places to see in and around :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
The beach
A few hours off at the lovely beach at Alappuzha Beach is an
exhilarating experience you should not miss. Along the sandy stretch one can find sea piers
that are over a hundred years old. There is also a huge light houses in the beach.
The amazing Vijaya Beach Park and the Sea View Park are other attractions in close vicinity.
Pathiramanal
This is an exquisite piece of land just a few kilometers off Alappuzha.
A trip to the place would be your chance to observe several exotic species of birds that fly in from far and wide.
This place earns its fame from the elegant Ambalapuzha Krishna temple
and, believe it or not, for a sweet dish- the Ambalappuzha payasam, that is served at the temple. The
temple structure is beautifully built and is a splendid specimen of Kerala architecture and craftsmanship.
There is a grand festival celebrated at the temple premises every March.
Arthunkal St. Andrew's Church
The Arthunkal St. Andrew's Church is one of the famous Christian
houses of worship in the district. There is a grand feast organized by the church authorities every
January in memory of St. Sebastian.
Kuttanad
Kuttanad has become synonymous with the word backwaters, and so
is a must visit spot when one plans a holiday to Kerala- the land that is much known for its marvelous
backwaters. Along the coast of the vast expanse of lakes, canals, rivers that cover most of Kuttanad,
one can observe nuances of rural Kerala life styles.
The acres of well maintained paddy field in Kuttanad, a place several
feet below sea level, adds more greenery to the perfect picture the place showcases.
Harippad
This place is famous for the temple at Champakulam. Still better known
is the fantastic celebration at the temple every year. An interesting procession of elegant water
floats and boats decked with colourful parasols carrying idols of the deity moves about the water
surface. People also render performances on these boats. Boat races are also held in connection with
the celebration. Most famous is the Champakulam Moolam Boat Race- the oldest snake boat race
in Kerala. The annual boat race is held in June-July.
Mannarssala has a sacred place among those who believe in the powers
of Nagaraja or the serpent king. It is also faintly mentioned in the great epic, the Mahabharata..
The temple here is one of the most revered sites for snake worship in Kerala. Some families even
today worship the snake god and perform special rituals for them.
The temple complex encompasses many shrines, each built in typical
Kerala style; and there are numerous skillfully crafted idols of different snakes, the snake king and his queen.
The annual festival in the month of Thulam (October/ November),
the related preparation and grand celebrations all present a vibrant picture. The majestic processions,
the offerings and special prayers are feast for the eye. There is also 'vedikketu' or fireworks that
add to the life and vividness of the festivity.
Other Attractions
The beautiful monument of Krishnapuram Palace, the St. George Church
at Edathua and the holy shrine- Chavara Bhavan are other attractions.
Transport Facility
Air: Nearest international airports are at Thiruvananthapuram
(150 km from Alappuzha) and Kochi (Nedumbassery - 85 km from Alappuzha).
Rail: Alappuzha has its own railway station.
Road: Well connected to major cities.
|
)
)
)
)