Alappuzha is a district of immense natural beauty with the Arabian Sea on the west and a vast network of lakes, lagoons and fresh water rivers crisscrossing it. Referred to as the Venice of the east by travelers 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 an exclusive place in the marine history of Kerala. Now, Alappuzha (Alleppey) has grown-up in significance as a backwater tourist Place, & famed for its boat races, houseboat Cruises, beaches, marine products and coir business.
Kuttanad :
Kuttanad is also known as the rice bowl of Kerala because of her affluence of paddy crops, is at the very heart of the backwaters.Accord with its bodily scenery. Renowned for its cultivation under sea level (about 4 to 10 feet) the land of Kuttanad owns a socio-cultural fabric of its own. Four major rivers in Kerala viz. Pampa, Meenachil, Achankovil and Manimala flow into the district.
Kuttanad can be the entrance from places on the National Highway- 47 from Harippad to Alappuzha town in the District of Alappuzha, and from places like Thiruvalla and Changanasserry on the Main Central (MC) Road departing through the District of Kottayam.
The most admired way taken to get close and explore Kuttanad is the Alappuzha-Changanasserry road. This path goes through the heart of Kuttanad and gives guests ample of choices to observe the day-to-day life at Kuttanad. The finest thing for a tourist to Kuttanad is that, one can take deviations from either side of the Alappuzha-Chanaganasserry road to reach villages, mainly consisting of farmers. During the harvest period the vast area of paddy fields, at several places dotted with islets of coconut trees, will be busy with farmers occupied in different farming activities; ended in the traditional method. Quite early in the sunrise itself one can view the women folk heading towards the paddy fields carrying their lunch box and sickle, and on the other hand, men could be seen already on the fields till the land, sowing the seeds, getting rid of weeds, diverting water channels etc.
Champakulam Church:
One of the oldest cathedrals in Kerala, the St. Mary’s Church is supposed to be one of the seven established by St. Thomas. The yearly feast at this church falls on the 3rd Sunday of October each year. The feast of St. Joseph is celebrated on March 19th.
Arthunkal (22 km north of Alappuzha):
The St. Sebastian’s Church here is a vital Christian pilgrim centre. Arthunkal Perunnal is the feast of the patron saint celebrated on January
Karumadikuttan (3km east of Ambalapuzha):
Numerous fascinating legends are connected with this 11th century statue of Lord Buddha.
Alappuzha beach:
This is one of the major admired vacation spots in Alappuzha. The pier, which extends into the sea here, is over 137 years old. Amusement facilities at the Vijaya beach park add to the attractions of the beach.
Sea View Park:
The park offers boating amenities 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 permits Rs. 15, Camera permit Rs. 100 respectively.
Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple (32 km south of Alappuzha):
The Temple is located near Harippad, this is a serpent holy place under the patronage of a Brahman family, headed by a priestess. The ancient shrine is a worldwide renowned pilgrim centre devoted to the Serpent God Nagaraja.
