Location
Located
on a thin strip of land, sandwiched between the Arabian Sea and the
Punnamada backwater. It is 71 km south of Kochi and 147 km north of
Thiruvananthapuram.
The City Alleppey
Alleppey also known as Alappuzha is one of the most important tourists
destinations in Kerala. It is popular for its backwater tourism spots and so
known as the "Venice of the east". The boat cruise along the
backwaters of Alleppey provides glimpses to the lifestyle and culture of the
countryside. It was also a major trading centre in the past due to its ports
along the Malbar coast. Even today, it is a the major centre for Coir
industries in India. The city is also known for its spectacular snake boat
races and Nehru Boat Races held in the month of August every year.
Climate
Alleppey has a tropical humid climate. The temperature during Summers
varies between 35-22.5 degrees C and in winter it is between 32 and 20
degrees C. The city receives an average annual rainfall of 299cm. August to
March is best tourist season to visit the backwater city.
Sightseeing
The town Alleppey is known for its backwaters throughout India. Besides,
beaches, temples, colonial buildings are some major tourist attractions.
» Alleppey Beach - The long beach covered with palm
trees is an ideal place to sit and relax. It is also called the Vijaya
Beach, has several entertainment facilities including a children's park run
by the District Tourism Promotion Council(DTPC) and an old light house. The
park is open daily from 3-8 pm with an entry fee Rs 5. Boating facility is
also available at the park.
»
Backwaters - This is a must do on your Alleppey holiday. A boat cruise
on the Punnamada Kayal takes you along canals past scenic islands offering
picturesque views of the surroundings. One can hire boats from the Tourist
Boat Jetty near the bus stand. DTPC also provide private cruises at an price
of Rs 200 per hour for a group of 10 and and Rs 350 for a group of 20 ; 8 am
to 7 pm.
» Krishnapuram Palace - The structure displays the
typical Keralan style of architecture. The museum inside the palace complex
houses a largest mural painting, depicting the story of Gajendra Moksham.
The museum also has antique sculptures, paintings and bronzes.
» Ambalapuzha Temple - Dedicated to Lord Krishan it
is another important place to visit. It displays a typical temple
architecture and culture of Kerala.
Other Attractions
Some other attractions in the city are the St. Andrew's Church, Mullackal
Temple and Kuttanad the rice bowl of Kerala.
Fairs and Festivals
There are several fairs and festivals celebrated in the city with much fun.
» Boat Races - The boat races such as the Nehru
Trophy Boat Race and the Rajiv Gandhi Boat Race are the two major events of
the city, held in the month of August every year. Colourful water
procession, boat races, water floats, are the major attractions of the
races.
» Artungal Perunal - This festival at the church St.
Andrew's Forance church at Arthungal attracts devotees from all over.
» Edathua Perunal - It is celebrated in the St.
George at Edathua every year in the month of April and May.
Shopping
Shopping is always exhilarating in Alleppey. Alleppey is well known for its
coir products and carpets. Besides Alleppey is also famous for its pepper,
coconut, oil, sugur, cardamom, etc. There are several market places like the
Mullackal shopping junction which can fulfill your shopping desire.
Accommodation
Alleppey provides various types of accommodation facilities in hotels and
resorts ranging from luxury to economy class. Some well known hotels are the
Prince Hotel, the Kayaloram Lake Resort, Oberoi House Boat Vrinda, Punnamada
Backwater Resort, Keraleeyam Heritage Home and Ayurvedic Resort.
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