The town was founded by Raja Keshawadasan, Divan of Travanacore in 1762. With the Arabian sea on the west and a vast network of lakes, lagoons and fresh water rivers crisscrossing it, alappuzha is a district of immense natural beauty. Alappuzha (Alleppey) has grown in importance as a backwater tourist centre, & also famous for its boat races, houseboat holidays, beaches, marine products and coir industry. Alleppey is one of the most important tourist centers in the state. A large network of canals provide Alleppey its lifeline. Alleppey has a lengthy but filthy beach. It’s a fine example of an elaborately carved wooden South Indian temple somewhat reminiscent of those in Nepal.
HOW TO REACH
By Air: –
Cochin is the nearest is airport i.e. 64 kms, its and international airport so well connect to the other major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad etc. Another option is Trivandrum airport i.e. 159 km south of Alleppey.
By Rail – Alleppey Railway Station. Connected by rail with Cochin and Trivandrum.
By Road:–
Well connected by road (NH-47). Trivandrum – Alleppey : 160 km, Cochin – Alleppey : 70 km.
By Water:–
Connected with Cochin (5 1/2 hrs), Quilon (8 hrs) and Kottayam (2 1/2 hrs)
WHAT TO SEE
Kuttanad :-
Kuttanad, called the rice bowl of Kerala because of her wealth of paddy crops, is at the very heart of the backwaters.
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. Joseph is celebrated on March 19th.
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.
Sea View Park:-
The park offers boating facilities 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 permit Rs. 15, Camera permit Rs. 100 respectively.
Mannarasala Sree Nagaraja Temple:-
This temple is (32 km south of Alappuzha) – Situated near Harippad, this is a serpent shrine under the patronage of a brahman family, headed by a priestess. The ancient shrine is an internationally renowned pilgrim centre dedicated to the Serpent God Nagaraja.
Arthunkal:-
(22 km north of Alappuzha) – The St. Sebastian’s Church here is an important Christian pilgrim centre. Annual festival: Arthunkal Perunnal – the feast of the patron saint (January)
Karumadikuttan:-
(3km east of Ambalapuzha) – Many fascinating legends are associated with this 11th century statue of Lord Buddha.
SHOPPING:-
Alleppey is pretty well known for its coir products and carpets. Although Alleppey is not a regular shopper’s delight, one is not disappointed because what is available is generally of good quality.Alleppey is also famous for its spice plantations. The markets over here sell all Indian spices both rare and the common ones.
FOOD:-
Kreamkorner is a nice place to have Indian and Chinese dishes. They are located in the Mullackal street. Arcadia, a 4 star hotel has just opened in 2006, but has priced meals at really low prices to attract customers.
Vembanad Restaurant, AS Road, Alleppey.
Keraleeyam Heritage – If you love to eat authentic cuisine of Kerala, you will get it nowhere except at Keraleeyam. The food comprises of rice, spicy curries, puttu or steamed rice-cake with coconut gratings prepared in bamboo shell etc. the food is served in traditional style on plantain leaves to complete the effect. Besides the cuisine of Kerala, you have the choice of selected of Continental and Chinese preparations.