|
Kuttanad, called the rice bowl of Kerala because of her
wealth of paddy crops, is at the very heart of the backwaters. The scenic
countryside of Kuttanad with its shimmering waterways also has a rich crop of
banana, cassava, and yam. This is perhaps the only region in the world where
farming is done 1.5 to 2 m below sea level. Inland waterways which flow above
land level are an amazing feature of this region.
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 lighthouse which is greatly fascinating to visitors.
Sea View Park
The park offers boating facilities and a swimming pool.
Pathiramanal
According to mythology a young brahmin dived into Vembanad lake to
perform his evening ablutions and the water made way for land to rise from
below, thus creating the enchanting island of Pathiramanal. This little island
on the backwaters is a favourite haunt of hundreds of rare migratory birds from
different parts of the world. The island lies between Thaneermukkom and
Kummarakom, and is accessible only by boat.
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
Thomas is celebrated on March 19th.
Q S T and R Block Kayal
These regions are wonders of the indigenous agricultural
engineering know-how of Kerala and reminds the visitor of the famous dikes of
Holland. Extensive areas of land has been reclaimed from the backwaters and are
protected by dikes built all around. Here cultivation and habitation are made
possible four to ten below sea level. A leisurely cruise along the canals that
surround these Kayals is a memorable experience.
Chavara Bhavan ( 6km from Alappuzha. Accessible only by
boat)
Chavara Bhavan is the ancestral home of the blessed Kuriakose
Elias Chavara. It is now a holy shrine and spiritual resort where thousands of
devotees gather for prayer, receive favours and feel amply gratified. Here, a
250 year old historically important beacon of light is preserved intact in its
original and primitive form.
Ambalappuzha Sree Krishna Temple (15 km south of
Alappuzha)
Built in the typical Kerala architecture style, this temple is
famous all over India for the Palpayasam, is preformed Velans once
every twelve years . Paintings of the Dasavatharam are on display on the
inner walls of the Chuttamabalam. Ottanbulla, a satiric art form
originated by the poet Kunchan Nambiar, was first preformed on the premises of
this temple.
Arthunkal Church
The St Sebastian's Church here is an important Christian pilgrim
center. Annual festival : Arthunkal Perunnal - the feast of the
parton saint.
Edathua Church (24 km from Alappuzha, on the Alappuzha-
Thiruvalla Road) Established in 1810, the church is dedicated to St. George.
It is believed that prayers and offerings at this church help to heal all mental
disorder and other ailments. During the annual feast pilgrims from all parts of
South India, irrespective of caste and creed, visit the church and seek the
blessing of the saint.
Chettikulangara Bhagavathy Temple, Mavelikkara
The Kettukazhcha festival at this temple draws large crowds of
devotees. Processions of tall decorated structures on chariots, brightly
decorated effigies of horse and bullocks and cultural performances make a
spectacular pageant.
Krishnapuram Palace (47 kn from Alappuzha)
Built by Marthanda Varma, this palace at Karthikapally in
Kayamkulam is famous for its murals depicting the story of Gajendramoksham.
Dating back to the 18 th century, this exquisite piece of art is one of the
largest murals in Kerala. The palace museum houses antique sculptures, paintings
and bronzes.
Karaumadikuttan( 3km east of Ambalapuzha )
Many fascinating legends are associated with this 11th century
statue of Lord Buddha. |