About Alleppey
Alleppey or Alappuzha, is a town located in Alapuzzha District of Kerala.
The ancient town was founded in 1762 by Raja Keshwadasan of Travancore.
Because of its closeness to the sea, Alleppey has always remained a unique
place in the maritime history of Kerala. The town is described as the
'Venice of the East' by Lord Curzon, for its pictresque canals, tranquil
backwaters and lagoons. Bounded by the Arabian sea on the western side and a
vast network of lakes and rivers, the backwater country is home to varieties
of animal and bird life. Apart from its natural beauty, Alleppey is also
famous for its Snake boat races, houseboat vacations, beaches, marine
products and coir industry.
Climate
Alleppey has a tropical climate. The summers are hot and humid, the
temperatures varies between Max 35°C - Min 22.5°C, while winters
are comparatively more pleasant and the temperatures varies between Max 32°C
- Min 20°C. The ideal time to visit Alleppey is September to March.
Major Attractions of Alleppey
Alappuzha Beach : Alappuzha Beach is one of the popular
beaches of Kerala. The long beach covered with thick palm groves on one end,
is an ideal picnic spot. The 140 years old pier, which extends into the sea
is a major attraction here. The nearby Vijaya beach park and an old
lighthouse add more attraction to the beach.
Kuttanadu : Kuttanadu is an expense of waterlogged land,
sandwiched between the sea and the hills. Kuttanadu is perhaps the only
region of where farming is done 1.5 - 2 metre below sea level. Kuttanadu
looks more beautiful with its shimmering waterways, which flow above land
level.
Mullackal Bhagavathi Temple : Mullackal Bhagavathi Temple
is situated in the heart of the town. The temple has many shops, where coir
matting and carpets are available on reasonable price.
Sreekrishna Temple : The temple located 14 Kms away from
Alleppey, is famous for its classic temple architecture. Sreekrishna Temple
is popular throughout Kerala for 'Palpayasam' (sweet milk porridge) offered
to the deity. The temple celebrates its main festival in the months of
March-April, which is a major festival of the region.
Pathiramanal : The beautiful small island of Pathiramanal
lies between Thannermukkom and Kumarakom. Surrounded by the Vembanad Lake,
this island can be reached only by boat. Pathiramanal is a favourite haunt
of hundreds of migratory birds from different countries of the world.
Arthunkal : Arthunkal, lies 22 Kms north of Alleppey, is
a popular pilgrimage centre. The place is known for its St. Andrews Church,
set up by Portuguese missionaries in 1851.
Karumadikkuttan
: Located 3 Kms east of Ambalapuzha, this small village is famous for
its 10th century Karumadikkuttan statue. It is a black granite figure of the
Buddha, and many interesting legends are attached to this idol.
Nehru Trophy Boat Race : Nehru Trophy Boar Race, the most
famous of the boat races in Kerala was begun in 1952. The annual boat race
held on the second Saturday of August, on the Punnda Backwaters of Alappuzha
district. The snake boats are oared by 100 to 120 oarsmen, and the race
begins and finishes with the tune of music.
Krishnapuram Palace : The palace situated 47 Kms from
Alleppey, was built by Marthand Varma in the 18th century. The two storeyed
palace depicts Kerala's unique architectural opulence. The palace is now
converted to an archaeological museum and houses the huge 'Gajendra
Moksham,' the largest Mural panels discovered in Kerala. The museum displays
the antique bronze sculptures, paintings, ceremonial utensils, oil lamps,
fine miniature figures and small stone columns carved with serpent deities.
Shopping
Alleppey is famous for its coir products and carpets. The fine quality,
variety and cheaper price of these products are major attractions for
tourists. In addition other items which attracts buyers are pepper, coconut
oil, areca nut, cardamom and sugar etc
How to Reach
Air : The nearest airport is Cochin (64 Kms) and
Trivandrum (159 Kms). The flights are available for major cities of the
country from these airports.
Rail : Alleppey railhead is connected to Cochin (64 Kms)
and other parts of the country.
Road : The excellent road networks connect Alleppey with
major towns of Kerala and other parts of India.
Boat/Ferry : Alleppey is connected by boat services to
Kottayam, Changanasseri, Kollam and Kumarakom.
Accommodation
Alleppey has several hotels,.which offer plenty of accommodation options.
The tourist can chose from the luxury, deluxe, star and budget category
hotels, according to their budgets. Some of the popular hotels are The
Marari Beach, Alleppey Prince Hotel and Hotel Punnamada Lake Resort etc.
