Alappuzha
Alappuzha is a Land Mark between the broad Arabian sea and a net work of rivers
flowing into it. In the early first decade of the 20th Century the then Viceroy
of the Indian Empire, Lord Curzon made a visit in the State to Alleppey now
Alappuzha. Fascinated by the Scenic beauty of the place, in joy and amazement,
he said, “Here nature has spent up on the land her richest bounties”.
In his exhilaration, it is said, he exclaimed, “Alleppey, the Venice of
the East”. Thus the sobriquet found its place in the world Tourism Map.
The presence of a port and a pier, criss -cross roads and numerous bridges across
them, a long and unbroken sea coast might have motivated him to make this comparison.
Alleppey has a wonderful past. Though the present town owes its existence to
the sagacious Diwan Rajakesavadas in the second half of 18th century, District
of Alappuzha figures in classified Literature. Kuttanad, the rice bowl of Kerala
with the unending stretch of paddy fields, small streams and canals with lush
green coconut palms , was well known even from the early periods of the Sangam
age. History says Alappuzha had trade relations with ancient Greece and Rome
in B.C and in the Middle Ages.
Water carnivals using the gigantic snake boats and the country canoes of varying
strata have an important role in the community life of the people of the district.
As the district has got a vast spread of lakes and canals, there is wide potential
for lake side tourism and inland fisheries.
Alappuzha is already one of the major tourism spots in the tourism map of Kerala.
PLACES OF INTEREST IN AND AROUND ALAPPUZHA
» Pathiramanal
According to mythology a young Brahmin dived into the Vembanadu lake to perform
his evening ablutions and the water made way for land to rise from below, thus
creating the enchanting island of (sands of midnight) Pathiramanal . This little
island on the backwaters is a favourite haunt of hundred of rare migratory birds
from different parts of the world. The island lies between Thaneermukkom and
Kumarakom, and is accessable only by boat.
» R-Block
These regions are wonders of the indigenous agricultural engineering kow-how
of Kerala and remind the visitor of the famous dikes of Holland. Extensive areas
of Land have been reclaimed from the backwaters and are protected by dikes built
all around . Here cultivation and habitation are made possible four to ten feet
below Sea Level. A leisurely cruise along the Canals that surround these Kayals
is a memorable experience.
» Karumadikuttan
Many fascinating legends are associated with this 11th century statue of Lord
Buddha.
» Kumarakodi
20 km south of Alappuzha, Mahakavi Kumaranasan, one of the greatest poets of
modern Kerala is laid to rest here. He was the P.D Shelly of Malayalam Literature.
As an brought great changes in literature and could give the clarions call for
changing the society also.
» Saradhamandiram,
Mavelikkara
A.R Rajaraja Varma was a great poet and grammerian, The Malayalam literature
is much indebted to Sri. A.R Thampuran. Saradha Mandiram was built by him as
his residence. Now it is bought by the State Govt. & kept as his memorial.
» Krishnapuram Palace
Built by Marthandavarma, this place at karthikappally in Kayamkulam is famous
for its mural depicting the story of Gajendramoksham. Dating back to the 18th
century, this exquisite piece of art is one of the largest murals in Kerala.
This palace museum houses antique sculptures, paintings and bronzes.
» 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 light house
which is greatly fascinating to visitors.
Kerala Must See › Alappuzha
› Ernakulam › Idukki
› Kannur › Kasaragod
› Kollam › Kottayam
› Kovalam › Kozhikode
› Malappuram › Palakkad
› Pathanamthitta › Periyar
› Thiruvananthapuram ›
Thrissur › Wayanad
