Alleppey

Places To Visit

Kuttanad, 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 m below sea level. Inland waterways which flow above land level are an amazing feature of this region.

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. There is also an old lighthouse which is greatly fascinating to visitors.

Sea View Park

The park offers boating facilities and a swimming pool.

Pathiramanal  

According to mythology a young brahmin dived into Vembanad lake to perform his evening ablutions and the water made way for land to rise from below, thus creating the enchanting island of Pathiramanal. This little island on the backwaters is a favourite haunt of hundreds of rare migratory birds from different parts of the world. The island lies between Thaneermukkom and Kummarakom, and is accessible only by boat.

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 Thomas is celebrated on March 19th.

Q S T and R Block Kayal 

These regions are wonders of the indigenous agricultural engineering know-how of Kerala and reminds the visitor of the famous dikes of Holland. Extensive areas of land has been reclaimed from the backwaters and are protected by dikes built all around. Here cultivation and habitation are made possible four to ten below sea level. A leisurely cruise along the canals that surround these Kayals is a memorable experience.

Chavara Bhavan ( 6km from Alappuzha. Accessible only by boat) 

Chavara Bhavan is the ancestral home of the blessed Kuriakose Elias Chavara. It is now a holy shrine and spiritual resort where thousands of devotees gather for prayer, receive favours and feel amply gratified. Here, a 250 year old historically important beacon of light is preserved intact in its original and primitive form.

Ambalappuzha Sree Krishna Temple (15 km south of Alappuzha)

Built in the typical Kerala architecture style, this temple is famous all over India for the Palpayasam, is preformed Velans once every twelve years . Paintings of the Dasavatharam are on display on the inner walls of the Chuttamabalam. Ottanbulla, a satiric art form originated by the poet Kunchan Nambiar, was first preformed on the premises of this temple.

Arthunkal Church

The St Sebastian's Church here is an important Christian pilgrim center. Annual festival : Arthunkal Perunnal -  the feast of the parton saint.

Edathua Church (24 km from Alappuzha, on the Alappuzha- Thiruvalla Road)  Established in 1810, the church is dedicated to St. George. It is believed that prayers and offerings at this church help to heal all mental disorder and other ailments. During the annual feast pilgrims from all parts of South India, irrespective of caste and creed, visit the church and seek the blessing of the saint.

Chettikulangara Bhagavathy Temple, Mavelikkara

The Kettukazhcha festival at this temple draws large crowds of devotees. Processions of tall decorated structures on chariots, brightly decorated effigies of horse and bullocks and cultural performances make a spectacular pageant.

Krishnapuram Palace (47 kn from Alappuzha)

Built by Marthanda Varma, this palace at Karthikapally in Kayamkulam is famous for its murals depicting the story of Gajendramoksham. Dating back to the 18 th century, this exquisite piece of art is one of the largest murals in Kerala. The palace museum houses antique sculptures, paintings and bronzes.

Karaumadikuttan( 3km east of Ambalapuzha )

Many fascinating legends are associated with this 11th century statue of Lord Buddha.