Destination: Alappuzha - A Popular Backwater Destination in Kerala near Kochi. |
Destination Type: Beach |
City: Alleppey |
Country: India |
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.
Kuttanad - KeralaPathira Manal : According the mythology a Young Brahmin dived into the Vembanad lake to persorm 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.
Nehru Cup Snake Boat Race : Held on the second Saturday of August every year this boat race is "must see" for the tourist. Boats of all sizes compete in different events, but the most prestigious and interesting is that of the "Chundan Vallam". This boat with 100 rowers, 4 helmsmen and has 25 cheer leaders is decorated with colorful umbrellas. The race is held in massive Vembanand lake, east of the town. Tickets are available at various stalls on the pay. Packing food and an umbrella to the venue is a good idea.
Alleppey-Kollam Backwater trip : This trip is organised by the ATDC and starts at 10.30 am near the ATDC tourist information centre and reaches Kollam at around 6.00pm. The charge is Rs. 150. The boat passes through palm fringed the backwaters. A close view of the country side and fishing activity in the lake are interesting sights. The boat stops for lunch in between.
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 alapuzha) : 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
Pathiramanal : According to mythology of young brahaman dived into the Vembanand Lake to perform his evening ablutions, and water made way for land to rise from below. Thus creating the enchanting island of 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.
Visitt Arthunkal ,Edathua Church , Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple & Krishnapuram Palace - 47 km from alappuzha.