The ‘Venice of the East’, as Alappuzha is fondly known as, is a beautiful place and indescribable by words. The mesmerizing backwaters, the picturesque canals, beaches, stretches of paddy fields and brackish lagoons are what makes this district so attractive to people.
1) Backwaters of Kuttanad
When you go along the backwaters of Kuttanad, you will get a chance to glimpse the bucolic way of life of the people and marvel at the exotic aquatic and avian life. The entire length of Kuttanad stretches for a distance of approximately 150 kilometres right from Kollam to Kochi and can be enjoyed through rice barges or houseboats.
The houseboat ride from Kollam to Alappuzha is a divine experience, but must be pre-booked if you want to enjoy it to its full advantage. You can make it a full-day tour or an overnight one if you want to savour a beautiful night under the stars.
Also Read: Valiyaparamba Backwaters: Enjoy the most beautiful third biggest backwater in Kerala
2) Marari Beach
If you prefer a feel of remoteness, then Marari beach is the place to get to. Just 14 kms from Alappuzha town, this beach is near the fishing hamlet of Mararikkulam village.
The beach is great; the negative though is that you may have to stick to the cleaner areas, as not all areas are as clean as we prefer.
3) Krishnapuram Palace
In and around, Alappuzha tour places have many interesting places to visit. Krishnapuram Palace in Kayamkulam is a fine example of art, architecture, and glamour. The palace is 47 km away from Alappuzha and should be included in Alappuzha sightseeing. Presently the palace is looked after by the Archaeological Department of Kerala and it has plenty of attractions maintained from the past. Kayamkulam Vaal, Gajendra Moksha-a mural painting that spreads over 53 square feet is also another historically prominent attraction of the palace.
The palace set on the backdrop of a hill is adorned with a beautiful garden, fountains, ponds, and lawns. This unique architectural beauty is a worth visiting destination that lies closer to Alappuzha.
4) Arthunkal Church
At a distance of 23 Kms from Alappuzha Railway Station, Arthunkal Church, also known as St. Andrew's Forane Church is one of the oldest churches in Kerala. It is situated on the shores of Arabian Sea.
Dedicated to St.Sebastian, this church comes under the Latin order. The Arthunkal Feast is celebrated for 11days. The highlights of the concluding day of the festival include a special ritual in which the devotees crawl on their knees all the way from the nearby beach to the church.
5) Ambalapuzha Temple
Lord Sri Krishna, the stealer of hearts has thousands of temples all over Kerala, but Ambalapuzha Sree Krishna Temple stands out from among them. It is one of the most visited Hindu temples in the entire state and is even known as Guruvayoor of the south. The temple is also known for its pal payasam, an offering made to the Lord, and later enjoyed by the devotees. This ancient Hindu temple was built during the 15th century and still retains its ancient heritage charm and beauty.
6) Karumadi
Karumadiis a village near Ambalappuzha (3 km away), where you can find the famous Buddha statue, Karumadikuttan. Karumadikuttan is a black granite statue, which is said to be built between 9th and 14th century. This statue is historically significant as it is a unique evidence for Buddhism in Kerala. You can see Buddha in sitting position, placed in the banks of 'Punnamada Lake'. Don't miss to visit the only Buddhist temple in Kerala, while your trip to Alappuzha. The place is around 16.9 km away from Alappuzha.
7) Chavara Bhavan
The house of blessed Kuriakose Elias Chavara is a major attraction among Alappuzha Sightseeing. One can reach this blessed shrine only by boat. The ancestral home of blessed Kuriakose Chavara and a chapel are the attractions of this place.
Tourists from around the world visit Chavara Bhavan to offer prayers and seek blessings. This well-maintained house and chapel are surrounded by water and greenery. The construction of the house resembles the houses built in olden days. A 250-year-old “Beacon of Light” is still preserved here. A walk to the shrine through the narrow pathways that are surrounded by waterways is a memorable experience.
8) Pathiramanal Island
The tiny island in the middle of Vembanad Lake is a stop by location for backwater tours. The 20-hectare islet is a bird haven. Pathiramanal is only 4 kms from the boating hub of Kumarakom. From Alappuzha, the island can be reached by about 40 minutes’ boat ride.
Although near the border to Kottayam, Pathirmanal still makes it to the list of tourist attractions in Alappuzha.
How To Reach Alappuzha
Alappuzha is well-connected with all major cities of Kerala. This district can be accessed by air, road, and rail.
By Rail: Alappuzha is one of the prominent railway stations that lie between Ernakulam and Kayamkulam railway line. Almost all the trains that connect with the northern and southern parts of India have a halt at Alappuzha. From the station, taxis or rickshaws are available.
By Air: Alleppey is 90 Kilometers away from Cochin. It takes almost 2 and a half hours to reach Alappuzha from Cochin International Airport. All the prominent international and national airlines operate from Cochin.
By Road: Alappuzha is well-connected with other parts of India. There are inter-state and inter-district buses that connect with Alappuzha. The most popular bus routes include Coimbatore, Alleppey, Thalassery, Trivandrum, Mangalore, Bangalore. Manipal, Calicut, and more.
Best Time to Visit Alappuzha
November to February: Winters are the best time to visit Alappuzha (Allepey) as the weather is mild and pleasant. The average temperature during this time is between 17 degrees to 32 degrees Celsius. This is the perfect time to go on a houseboat ride and explore the backwaters of Allepey.
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