Cities
In Kerala
( Alappuzha )
Alappuzha
used to be a major shipping center. The main reason that tourist
come here is to use it as a stopover point on their way to a backwater
boat tour to Kollam or Kottayam. Alappuzha is about midway between
Kochi (64km) and Kollam (85km). Most tourists stay here only one
night because there is little to do in town.
With the Arabian sea on the west and a vast network of lakes,
lagoons, and fresh water rivers criss crossing it. Alappuzha is
a district of immense natural beauty. Referred to as the Venice
of the East by travellers from across the world, this backwater
country is also home to diverse animal and bird life. By virtue
of its proximity to the sea, the town has always enjoyed a unique
place in the maritime history of Kerala. Today Alappuzha is grown
in importance as a backwater tourist centre, attracting several
thousands of foreign tourists each year. Alappuzha is also famous
for its boat races, houseboat holydays, beaches, marine products
and coir industry. Here, one can see coconut husks being beaten
into fiber for making beautiful mats and coir products. A singular
characteristic of this land is the region called Kuttanad. The
rice bowl of Kerala. Kuttanad is perhaps the only place in the
world where farming is done below sea level.
Boat Races: Alappuzha Nehru Trophy Boat Race at Pannamada Kayal
- second Saturday of August.
Pulinkunnu Rajiv Gandhi Boat Race - Last Saturday of August.
Champakulam Moolam Boat Race - Moolam day of Mithunam - July
Payippad Jalotsavam - 4th Onam day - August/September.
Neerattupuram Boat Race- Onam - August/September.
Arthunkal:
The St. Sebastian's Church here is an important Christian pilgrim
centre. Annual festival Arthunkal Perunnal - the feast of the
patron saint (January).
The
Nearest airport is at Kochi, 64 Km. from here. Kochi is connected
by daily flights with almost all the important cities in the country.
Alappuzha is connected by rail with almost all the important towns
in India. National Highway No. 47, which runs through Alappuzha
town, connects the district with important centers in South India.
Ferry Boats on the scenic backwaters of Alappuzha, connect the
district with Kochi, Kollam, Kottayam and Chengannur. The cruise
through the winding canals and backwaters is truly an unforgettable
experience.
Area:
1256 sq. Km.
Languages Spoken Malayalam and English
Best time to go August to March
STD Code 0477
