Alappuzha India Or   Places to Visit in Alleppey

Alappuzha City is one of the important districts in Kerala, India.  It has a long costal stretch and an intricate and an intricate network of canals and backwaters.   It also called us the ‘Venice of the East’. This part as any other part of Kerala has a number of ancient temples with unique legends associated with them. There are enough waterways to make the region fair and fertile.  Paddy, Banana, Cassava, Yam etc., are among the sumptuous produce of the region.  The exciting lagoons, the delightful dikes and the cultivation below the sea level all add to the astonishing elements of the region.  Alappuzha is the centre of Kerala’s famous coir industry.  Here, one can see coconut husks being beaten into fibre for making beautiful mats and coir products.  But the most colourful event, typical of Alappuzha, is the annual Nehru trophy boat race, organised on the second Saturday of August every year.  There is excitement in the air, as the 130 feet long snake boats, each manned by over a hundred rowers, race through the waters at breakneck speed, cheered by the spectators and traditional boat songs.  Boat races are held during other festive occasions also for example, the Onam season. There are beautiful beach resorts, alluring amusement parks and exciting canoes.  The ancient palaces bearing the evidence of a grand architecture and the museum with a variety of artefacts add to the greatness of the region.

Ambalapulai

Ambalapulai is 14km from Alappuzha. Sree Krishna temple is situated in Ambalapulai.  It is one of the important temples in Kerala.  This temple architecture is conforming to the typical Kerala style.  The temple is also famous for its Prasadam Palpayasam and milk porridge of exceptional sweetness.

Aranmula

Aranmula is situated on the banks of river Pampa. Aranmula is fast emerging as an important summer resort. It is a holy palace with a temple dedicated to Lord Krishna as the charioteer of Arjuna. The annual commemoration falls on the last day of the weeklong Onam festival.  The Aranmula Boat Race is conducted with a lot of pageantry and enthusiasm.    Aranmula is also famous for its metal mirrors, which make good souvenirs.


Kayankula

Kayankula is about 47km from Alappuzha. The famous Krishnapuram Palace here is of considerable artistic and tourist interest.  It is built in the 18th century. During the reign of Marthanda Varma, the double-storied palace with its gabled roof, narrow corridors and dormer windows in characteristic of Kerala’s architectural individuality.  The palace contains one of the largest mural panels in Kerala. A museum with antique sculptures, paintings and bronzes is housed inside the building.

Mannarsala

Mannarsala is 32km from Alappuzha. The temple here is one of the most important centres of serpent worship in Kerala.  During the annual festival in September/October, thousands of people assemble here to worship and propitiate the serpent gods.

Pathiramanal

Pathiramanal is tiny island in the Vembanad Lake.  It is the first island resort in Kerala.  Pathiramanal is charming island with its cosy cottages is truly a haven of peace.

How to Reach Alappuzha

Alappuzha is nearest airport is at Kochi. It is 64km from here.  Kochi is connected by daily flights with almost all the important cities in the country.  Alappuzha is connected by rail with almost all the important towns in India.  National Highways 47, which runs through Alappuzha town.  It connects the state with important centres in South India.  Ferry boats on the scenic backwater of Alappuzha, connect the district with Kochi, Kollam, Kottayam and Chengannur.  The cruise through the winding canals and backwaters is truly an unforgettable experience.