Overview
Alleppey: The Venice of the East
Washed by the sparkling waves of the Arabian sea, nestled in the folds of serene and lush green Kerala, Alappuzha or Allepey is a land of majestic beauty. In the 20th century, the then Viceroy of India, Lord Curzon made a visit to Alleppey. It is said that enthralled by the charm of this quaint city, he exclaimed “Here nature has spent up on the land her richest bounties. Alleppey, Venice of the East” giving it the sobriquet Venice of the East.
Alike many other cities, Alleppey has a unique history of its own. Kuttanad region in Alleppey which is also known as the rice bowl of Kerala was well known even in the early periods of the Sangam Age spanning from 3rd century B.C TO 4th century A.D. However the present town of Alleppey owes it creation to wise Diwan Raja Kesavadas, who ruled in Kerala in the second half of the 18th century. Far sighted Raja Kesavadas who appreciated the strategic importance of Alleppey and constructed a well planned port here.
Following are the main attractions of Alleppey:
Kuttanad: Lauded as the rice bowl of Kerala, Kuttanad mirrors the typical ideal village of India. The view of farmers farming in the fields, sowing seeds and rooting out weeds in their traditional ways and their wives making way to the fields carrying lunch and sickle gives a picture book scene making it different from other tourist destinations. A walk along the criss cross canals of Kuttanad is also a 'must do' activity on your trip to Alleppey.
Ambalappuzha Sree Krishna Temple: Presumably, a 15th century creation, this temple is popular among the Hindus. The idol here resembles to Parthasarthi with a whip in the right hand and a sacred conch in the left. In 1789, during the invasions of of Tipu Sultan, the idol of Sri Krishna from the Guruvayoor Temple was brought to in this temple for safe keeping.
The sweet porridge called payasamserved here is famous among Hindu worshippers. The ceremonial 10 days long festival held in the month of March/April is an important festival of the temple. Also the famous Malayalam artist Kunjan Nambiar had lived and died in the premises of the temple.
Mullackal Rajarajeshwari Temple: Located in the heart of Alleppey town, it is one of the most important temples of Kerala. Nine days Navarathri festival(September-October) and 41 days long Mulakkal Chirappu(November/December) are the two important festivals celebrated by the temple. During Mulakkal Chirappu, the whole town is jewelled with lights and decorations and the last 10 days are the busiest days of the town.
Alappuzha Beach: One of the most preferred choice of picnickers, Alappuzha Beach is located 4km from the Alleppey town. Laced by the 137 years old pier, this beach has an added attraction of a lighthouse. The light house is open from 3 PM to 5 PM for visitors and the view of Alleppey town from the top of this 28m long construction is breath-taking.
Kettuvallam: Trip to Alleppey is incomplete without a ride on Kettuvallam, a traditional houseboat made of Jack fruit tree wood and tied together through coir ropes. The coating of made of boiled cashew nut shells protect it from water. It is interesting to know that a traditional Kettuvallam does not have even a single nail in it. So pack your bags and come to this magical backwater destination of Kerala, where peace and tranquillity welcomes you warmly.
Excursions from Alleppey: Sree Nagaraja Temple in Mannasara (32km) and 18th century's Krishnapuram Palace (47km) can also be explored by travellers during their to trip to Alleppey.
Shopping in Alleppey: The city is synonymous to the coir made handicrafts and carpets found in almost every corner of the city at cheap prices. Spices like pepper, areca nut, coconut oil and cardamom can also be purchased from the local shops in Alleppey. Mullakkal and Canal Bazaar are some of the popular markets in the city. Wide variety of handmade coconut shell products can also bought as a souvenir from Alleppey.
When to reach: Best time to explore Alleppey is between the month of October to February because of the pleasant climate. India's biggest boat race Nehru Cup Boat Race held in mid January can also be the time worth visiting. It is exciting to watch long curved boats manned by over hundred of boatmen cutting through the water like a wind for the trophy.
How to reach:
Air: The nearest airport to Alleppey is Kochi International Airport located at a distance of 90km.
Rail: Alleppey Railway Station is linked to major cities like Kochi, Chennai, Bokaro, Howrah and Bangalore.
Road: Because of its location on National Highway 47, Alleppey is easily accessible to all major towns in South India. One can also avail bus service from cities like Bengaluru, Cochin, Trivandrum, Mysore and Coimbatore.
Get Free Tour Quote
Copyright © 2020
Powered by: SOFTTIX