PLACES TO VISIT IN ALAPPUZHA

Kuttanad:

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 also has a rich crop of banana, cassava and yam. Inland waterways, which flow above land level, are an amazing feature of kittened. This is perhaps the only region in the world where farming is done 1.5 to 2 m below sea level. Alappuzha Beach is one of the most popular picnic spots in the district. The pier, which extends into the sea here, is over 137 years old. The old lighthouse on the beach is a fascination for visitors.

Sea View Park: Boating facilities and swimming pool

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Jain Temple near Alappuzha Beach: This architectural marvel in marble is a fascinating monument

Pathiramanal: Legends attribute a divine origin to the island. It is said that Pathiramanal (sands of Midnight) was formed when the waters of Vembanad Lake parted as a devout young Brahmin dived into perform his evening ablutions. This island is accessible only by boat and is a favorite haunt of rare migratory birds.

Chambakulam 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.

QST and R Block Kayal: These regions are wonders of the indigenous agricultural engineering know-how of Kerala and remind the visitor of the famous dikes of Holland. Here cultivation and habitation are made possible four to ten feet below sea level on land reclaimed from the backwaters. Cruises on these canals are one of the most charming experiences in the State.

Chavara Bhavan (6 km from Alappuzha, accessible only by boat): Chavara Bhavan, the ancestral home of the blessed Kuriakose Elias, is now a spiritual resort. A 250-year-old beacon of light is preserved intact in its original form.

Sree Krishna Temple (15km south of Alappuzha): Built in the typical Kerala architectural style, this temple is famous all over India for palpayasam, the daily offering of deliciously sweet milk porridge. Paintings of the dasavatharam (the ten incarnation of Lord Vishnu) are on display on the walls of the chuttamblam

St.George's Church, Edathara (24km from Alappuzha): It is believed that prayers offered at this church help to heal mental disorders and other ailment.

Chakkulathukavu (28km from Alappuzha): Goddess Vanadurga is the presiding diety. Pongala and naree pooja-in honor of womanhood are the main festivals.

Sree Nagaraja Temple, Mannarasala (32km south of Alappuzha): Situated near Harippad, this ancient shrine dedicated to the Serpent God Nagaraja and headed by a priestess, is an internationally renowned pilgrim center.

Bhagavathy Temple, Chettikulagara: The Kettukazhcha festival at this temble draws large crowds of devotees.

Karumadikuttan (3 km east of Ambalapuzha): Many fascinating legends are associated with this 11th Century statue of Sree Budha.

Surabaya Temple (32km from Alappuzha): The largest temple dedicated to Sree Muruga in Kerala, this temple is renowned for its architectural splendor.