Monday, December 20, 2010

Alleppey Backwaters - The Soul of Kerala Tourism

Alappuzha, the venice of the east is the enchanting backwaters of Kerala. The Palm fringed canals have blessed Alappuzha. This water locked district has emerged as one of the best backwater tourism destinations in God's Own Country. The town has come up around the canals and is situated between the Arabian Sea and the backwaters. Its location makes it an unparalleled natural beauty. It is an important backwater tourist centre of India attracting scores of foreign tourists.




Alappuzha lies between the sea and the rivers, has the Cochin Airport at a distance of approximately 90 Kms. It also has a Railway Station that connects it to cities across the country. It has backwaters and beaches. You can take a cruise via canals, rivers and backwaters for a terrific view of the landscapes, monuments and industries. The popular boat races are held during Onam festival.












The region known as Kuttanad is popularly called the Rice Bowl of Kerala and it is one of the few places in the world where farming is done below sea level.

Alappuzha Sightseeing

Alleppey Beach: It is situated near Alleppey railway station. It is well equipped with thick palm groves. It was a busy port and the gateway to the Kerala. This relaxing beach attracts scores of tourists from the world over. There are water sports facilities available at the seaside, which makes it more interesting.

Alleppey Backwaters: Alappuzha has world-renowned mesmerizing backwaters and beautiful houseboats that attract sizable number of tourists. You can enjoy the boat rides with locals and visit Kuttanad through green fields and see coir workers doing their daily chores.

Krishnapuram Palace: This 18th century palace of the Travancore kings is situated around 47 Km from Alappuzha. It is built in typical Kerala style of architecture.The antique sculptures, paintings and bronze artifacts make it a worth visiting destination.


Karumadikuttan: It is the 10th century Karumadikuttan statue, a black granite statue of lord Buddha. It is situated approximately 3 kms from Ambalapuzha. This is a famous Sri Krishna temple known for traditional Kerala architecture.

Aruthunkal: It is an ancient St.Sebastian Church known as the St. Andrews Church also erected by the Portuguese in the year 1851. It is situated 22 Kms north of Alleppey. It is a popular centre of pilgrimage for the Christians. The feast of St.Sebastian is held every year in the month of January.





Mullackal Temple: This temple is dedicated to goddess Rajarajeswari. This temple is believed to have miraculous powers. A number of pilgrims visit this temple every year.


Punnamada Kayal: It is must-visit place where the annual Nehru Trophy boat race takes place in the month of August-September.The long snake boats can accommodate 120 people, making two rows of 60 each.


Alleppey Boat Races: Alappuzha is famous for boat races and annual water carnival festival. One of the most famous among them is the Nehru Trophy Boat Race. Every snake boat can accommodate around 150 people. The boat race is a spectacular show attended by thousands of people.



Chakkulathamma is famously known as the Mother who answers the call of her devotees. Countless pilgrims irrespective of caste creed and colour reach the shrine. The benevolent look of Goddess unfolds a thousand lotus flowers of real bhakthi in the minds of devotees. Chanting of Her names and mantras destroys the feelings of ignorance and pride like the flames of fire that overcomes the darkness. Many are the miracles that we see right in front of the Goddess



The Edathua Church was established in 1810 on the banks of the river Pamba. It was modeled after the medieval churches of Europe. The patron saint of this church is St. George. This Catholic saint is known for being especially good at helping to heal mental disorders and other ailments. As a result, numerous people from all of South India make the pilgrimage to this church to seek the blessing of St. George. Every year, an enormous festival is held to celebrate St. George.



A remarkable feast of gluttonous proportions is a large part of the festival that lasts for eleven days. A gold statue of St George is at the centre of attention. It is carried out in a grand procession, and then placed on a dais at the center of the Basilica. It remains there throughout duration of the feast

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