ALAPPUZHA

“The Venice of the East” Alappuzha is a district of immense natural beauty. Interlocked with a large number of canals and bridges, this water locked district has immense untapped potential for backwater tourism. By virtue of its proximity to the sea, the town has always enjoyed a unique place in the maritime history of Kerala. Alappuzha is famous for its spectacular boat races, houseboat holidays, beaches, marine products and coir industry. Interlocked with a large number of canals and bridges, washed by the silvery waves of Arabian Sea, Alappuzha occupies a significant place in the tourist map of Kerala.

Places of Attraction

Kuttanad: One of the most important characteristics of Alappuzha is Kuttanad. A land of lush paddy fields, Kuttanad is called the “Rice Bowl of Kerala” and is one perhaps the only places in the world where farming is done below sea level. The wealth of paddy crops, is at the very heart of the backwater. The scenic country side of Kuttanad with its shimmering waterways also has a rich crop of banana, cassava and yam. Inland waterways which flow above land level area an amazing feature of this region.

Krishnapuram Palace: The palace was built in the 18th century during the reign of Marthanda Varma. The palace displays typical characteristics of Kerala architecture - gabled roofs, dormar windows and narrow corridors. It houses one of the largest mural paintings in Kerala called the Gajendra Moksham”.

Ambalappuzha (Pilgrim Centre): The Sri Krishna Temple at Ambalappuzha is among Kerala’s more famous ones boasting of the typical Kerala architectural style. The temple is famous throughout Kerala for “Palpayasam” a milk porridge of exceptional sweetness offered to the deity.

Karimadi: The village of Karimadi is famous for its Karumadikuttan, a black granite figure of Buddha said to belong to the 9th or 10th century is of historical significance.

Mannarasala: The ancient shrine is an internationally renowned pilgrim center dedicated to the Serpent God Nagaraja. Legend has it that the first priestess of Mannarasala gave birth to a five headed snake, which is believed to reside in the ancestral house to safeguard the family. At Mannarasala barren women are believed to be blessed with children and a special turmeric paste available at the shrine is credited with power to cure even leprosy.

Edathua Church: Established in 1810, the church is dedicated to St.George Pilgrims from all pats of South India, irrespective of caste and creed, visit the church and seek the blessings of the saint